<p>Two explosions rocked Kyiv on Friday after air raid sirens sounded and air defences were activated on the day African leaders landed in the capital city to initiate a peace process and mediate between Russia and Ukraine.</p>

<p>Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko wrote on social media that there was an explosion in the central Podil district. "Missiles are still flying towards&nbsp;Kyiv," he said.</p>

<p>Reuters news agency reported that its correspondent saw a smoke trail of two missiles in the air. However, it is not clear if those missiles were fired by Russia or Ukraine.</p>

<p>Visuals aired by Reuters television purportedly showed the African leaders arriving in Kyiv in a convoy of cars and entering a hotel to use its air-raid shelter.</p>

<p>The leaders had begun their visit with a trip to Bucha, near Kyiv, which is one of several places where Ukraine says Russian troops committed large-scale atrocities following their full-scale invasion in February 2022. Russia denies the allegations.</p>

<h2><strong>African delegation includes President Ramaphosa</strong></h2>

<p>The African peace mission, which includes South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Senegal President Macky Sall, is here to propose a series of “confidence-building measures” during initial efforts at mediation, according to a draft framework document seen by Reuters.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">His Excellency President <a href="https://twitter.com/CyrilRamaphosa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CyrilRamaphosa</a> and other African Heads of State &amp; Government participating in the African Leaders Peace Mission now at the St Andrew’s Orthodox Church in the City of Bucha in Kiev, Ukraine, receiving a briefing ahead of their visit to the Mass Grave… <a href="https://t.co/NawzZOq95J">pic.twitter.com/NawzZOq95J</a></p>
— Presidency | South Africa 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) <a href="https://twitter.com/PresidencyZA/status/1669623863519457284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ramaphosa, who is visiting Ukraine for the first time since the start of&nbsp;Russia's full-scale invasion of the country, will hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;on Friday before travelling to St. Petersburg on Saturday for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.</p>

<p>According to the document, the objective of the mission is “to promote the importance of peace and to encourage the parties to agree to a diplomacy-led process of negotiations”.</p>

<h2><strong>Peace process</strong></h2>

<p>Among the proposed peace measures are a Russian troop pull-back, removal of tactical nuclear weapons from Belarus, suspension of the implementation of an International Criminal Court arrest warrant targeting Putin, and sanctions relief.</p>

<p>The document further calls for a cessation of hostilities agreement, which would be accompanied by negotiations between Russia and the West.</p>

<p>The mission is being launched shortly after the start of a Ukrainian counteroffensive that has pushed Russian forces back in some areas, though Kyiv has regained only a fraction of the territory Russian forces occupy in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Kyiv says its own peace initiative, which envisages the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian land, must be the basis for any settlement of the war.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Two explosions rocked Kyiv on Friday after air raid sirens sounded and air defences were activated on the day African leaders landed in the capital city to initiate a peace process and mediate between Russia and Ukraine.

Two explosions rocked Kyiv on Friday after air raid sirens sounded and air defences were activated on the day African leaders landed in the capital city to initiate a peace process and mediate between Russia and Ukraine. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko wrote on social media that there was an explosion in the central Podil district. "Missiles are still flying towards Kyiv," he said. Reuters news agency reported that its correspondent saw a smoke trail of two missiles in the air. However, it is not clear if those missiles were fired by Russia or Ukraine. Visuals aired by Reuters television purportedly showed the African leaders arriving in Kyiv in a convoy of cars and entering a hotel to use its air-raid shelter. The leaders had begun their visit with a trip to Bucha, near Kyiv, which is one of several places where Ukraine says Russian troops committed large-scale atrocities following their full-scale invasion in February 2022. Russia denies the allegations. African delegation includes President Ramaphosa The African peace mission, which includes South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Senegal President Macky Sall, is here to propose a series of “confidence-building measures” during initial efforts at mediation, according to a draft framework document seen by Reuters. His Excellency President @CyrilRamaphosa and other African Heads of State & Government participating in the African Leaders Peace Mission now at the St Andrew’s Orthodox Church in the City of Bucha in Kiev, Ukraine, receiving a briefing ahead of their visit to the Mass Grave… pic.twitter.com/NawzZOq95J — Presidency | South Africa 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) June 16, 2023 × Ramaphosa, who is visiting Ukraine for the first time since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of the country, will hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday before travelling to St. Petersburg on Saturday for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. According to the document, the objective of the mission is “to promote the importance of peace and to encourage the parties to agree to a diplomacy-led process of negotiations”. Peace process Among the proposed peace measures are a Russian troop pull-back, removal of tactical nuclear weapons from Belarus, suspension of the implementation of an International Criminal Court arrest warrant targeting Putin, and sanctions relief. The document further calls for a cessation of hostilities agreement, which would be accompanied by negotiations between Russia and the West. The mission is being launched shortly after the start of a Ukrainian counteroffensive that has pushed Russian forces back in some areas, though Kyiv has regained only a fraction of the territory Russian forces occupy in Ukraine. Kyiv says its own peace initiative, which envisages the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian land, must be the basis for any settlement of the war. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Blasts, air raid sirens greet African ‘peace mission’ leaders visiting Kyiv

<p>Three months before the explosion of Nord Stream, the Dutch military intelligence had informed the US spy unit, Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), of the Ukrainian plan to blow up the gas pipeline connecting Russia to Germany, a joint report by Dutch and German media claimed.</p>

<p>The report further mentioned that the CIA had later asked Ukraine to ditch the plan.</p>

<p>“The CIA warned Ukraine after receiving an alarming report from the Dutch Military Intelligence Services (MIVD) which heard about the plans via a Ukrainian source,” the Dutch NOS public broadcaster reported, in collaboration with German broadcaster ARD and national weekly Die Zeit.</p>

<p>Top Ukrainian general Valerii Zaluzhnyi was allegedly in charge of the operation, the media reported citing Dutch intelligence inputs to the US and added that a small team of divers used a sailing boat to carry out their plan.</p>

<p>However, Zelensky was not aware of the whole operation, NOS said.</p>

<p>It said that along with German media, it had spoken to several international intelligence sources who were aware of the involvement of the MIVD.</p>

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<p>Notably, the Washington Post had published a similar report about the CIA being informed of the Ukrainian plans but did not mention which country was responsible for the explosion.</p>

<p>The US-based newspaper reported that documents leaked by a US Air National Guard computer technician indicated that an unnamed European spy service had told the US Central Intelligence Agency about the plan in June 2022.</p>

<h2><strong>Officials mum</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Dutch Defence Minister Kajsa Ollongren declined to comment when asked about the reports.</p>

<p>“I cannot comment on the work of our intelligence services,” she told reporters at a press conference in Amsterdam, adding that the incident was under investigation by Germany, Sweden and Denmark, reports AFP news agency.</p>

<p>On September 26, two gas pipelines—The Nord Stream 1 and 2 —which were built to carry natural gas from Russia to Germany, were blown up in underwater explosions.</p>

<p>The Netherlands was one of the key stakeholders in Nord Stream along with Russia, France and Germany.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is responsible?</strong></h2>

<p>Initially, Russia was suspected of carrying out the attacks, but later doubts were also raised on the United States and Ukraine—but all denied responsibility.</p>

<p>Earlier this month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky again denied Kyiv’s involvement.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, German investigators are probing evidence that Poland was used as a staging base for the operation, The Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Three months before the explosion of Nord Stream, the Dutch military intelligence had informed the US spy unit, Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), of the Ukrainian plan to blow up the gas pipeline connecting Russia to Germany, a joint report by Dutch and German media claimed.

Three months before the explosion of Nord Stream, the Dutch military intelligence had informed the US spy unit, Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), of the Ukrainian plan to blow up the gas pipeline connecting Russia to Germany, a joint report by Dutch and German media claimed. The report further mentioned that the CIA had later asked Ukraine to ditch the plan. “The CIA warned Ukraine after receiving an alarming report from the Dutch Military Intelligence Services (MIVD) which heard about the plans via a Ukrainian source,” the Dutch NOS public broadcaster reported, in collaboration with German broadcaster ARD and national weekly Die Zeit. Top Ukrainian general Valerii Zaluzhnyi was allegedly in charge of the operation, the media reported citing Dutch intelligence inputs to the US and added that a small team of divers used a sailing boat to carry out their plan. However, Zelensky was not aware of the whole operation, NOS said. It said that along with German media, it had spoken to several international intelligence sources who were aware of the involvement of the MIVD. Notably, the Washington Post had published a similar report about the CIA being informed of the Ukrainian plans but did not mention which country was responsible for the explosion. The US-based newspaper reported that documents leaked by a US Air National Guard computer technician indicated that an unnamed European spy service had told the US Central Intelligence Agency about the plan in June 2022. Officials mum Meanwhile, Dutch Defence Minister Kajsa Ollongren declined to comment when asked about the reports. “I cannot comment on the work of our intelligence services,” she told reporters at a press conference in Amsterdam, adding that the incident was under investigation by Germany, Sweden and Denmark, reports AFP news agency. On September 26, two gas pipelines—The Nord Stream 1 and 2 —which were built to carry natural gas from Russia to Germany, were blown up in underwater explosions. The Netherlands was one of the key stakeholders in Nord Stream along with Russia, France and Germany. Who is responsible? Initially, Russia was suspected of carrying out the attacks, but later doubts were also raised on the United States and Ukraine—but all denied responsibility. Earlier this month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky again denied Kyiv’s involvement. Meanwhile, German investigators are probing evidence that Poland was used as a staging base for the operation, The Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Dutch spies warned CIA of Ukraine's plans to blow up Nord Stream pipelines: Report

<p>The toll from Russia's&nbsp;“massive missile” attack overnight on the central Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih rose to 10, and the number of people who got injured wnt up to 28, an official said on Tuesday. Earlier,&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Ten people have died, one is under the rubble, 28 are injured," Oleksandr Vilkul, the head of the city's military administration, said in a statement on&nbsp;social&nbsp;media.</p>

<p>Several civilian buildings were hit by the missile, including a five-storey building, the mayor of Kryvyi Rih, Oleksandr Vilkul, said earlier.</p>

<p>"Likely, there are people under the rubble," Vilkul said on Telegram.</p>

<p>While it was difficult to ascertain whether the attack had taken place since there was no immediate comment from Russia, Lisak shared a picture of a five-storey apartment building with all windows blown out and smoke coming out of some.</p>

<p>The attack comes a day after Ukraine began its much-awaited counter-offensive against the Russian forces and claimed to have achieved success.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine’s counter-offensive</strong></h2>

<p>On Monday, Kyiv claimed that it had taken control of seven villages in eastern and southern Ukraine that were initially occupied by the Russian forces over the last week.</p>

<p>Ukraine further said that it made small gains near the eastern city of Bakhmut after launching a long-awaited counteroffensive with Western weapons to claw back territory.</p>

<p>"Seven settlements were liberated," Deputy Defence Minister Ganna Malyar said on Telegram.</p>

<p>These are: Lobkovo, Levadne and Novodarivka in the southern Zaporizhzhia region, she said.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine takes 90 sq km of area from Russia, seven settlements taken over in last week</strong></h2>

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<p>“The battles are tough, but our movement is there, and that is very important,” President Volodymyr Zelensky said in his nightly video address on Monday.”</p>

<p>He added that rainy weather is challenging his troops, and that he’s discussed with his military commanders “which points of the front we need to strengthen and what actions we can take to break more Russian positions.”</p>

<p>Malyar said Ukrainian forces had also regained control of the village of Storozheve in the south of the Donetsk region, near three villages recaptured on Sunday.</p>

<p>"The area of the territory taken under control amounted to 90 square kilometres," Malyar said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-frances-macron-promises-more-military-aid-to-kyiv-as-counteroffensive-begins-603681">Ukraine war: France's Macron promises more military aid to Kyiv as counteroffensive begins</a></p>

<p>The Ukrainian defence ministry said its forces had advanced "250 to 700 metres" into the direction of the flashpoint city of Bakhmut.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-chief-worried-over-russia-possibly-quitting-grain-deal-in-july-603611">UN chief worried over Russia possibly quitting grain deal in July</a></p>

<p>Earlier, Russia said that it repelled Ukrainian attacks in the same area in the Donetsk region near Velyka Novosilka.</p>

<p>It also said it fought off Ukrainian attacks around the nearby village of Levadne in the neighbouring southern region of Zaporizhzhia.</p>

<p>The claims by Moscow and Kyiv could not be verified independently.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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The toll from Russia's “massive missile” attack overnight on the central Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih rose to 10, and the number of people who got injured wnt up to 28, an official said on Tuesday.

The toll from Russia's “massive missile” attack overnight on the central Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih rose to 10, and the number of people who got injured wnt up to 28, an official said on Tuesday. Earlier, "Ten people have died, one is under the rubble, 28 are injured," Oleksandr Vilkul, the head of the city's military administration, said in a statement on social media. Several civilian buildings were hit by the missile, including a five-storey building, the mayor of Kryvyi Rih, Oleksandr Vilkul, said earlier. "Likely, there are people under the rubble," Vilkul said on Telegram. While it was difficult to ascertain whether the attack had taken place since there was no immediate comment from Russia, Lisak shared a picture of a five-storey apartment building with all windows blown out and smoke coming out of some. The attack comes a day after Ukraine began its much-awaited counter-offensive against the Russian forces and claimed to have achieved success. Ukraine’s counter-offensive On Monday, Kyiv claimed that it had taken control of seven villages in eastern and southern Ukraine that were initially occupied by the Russian forces over the last week. Ukraine further said that it made small gains near the eastern city of Bakhmut after launching a long-awaited counteroffensive with Western weapons to claw back territory. "Seven settlements were liberated," Deputy Defence Minister Ganna Malyar said on Telegram. These are: Lobkovo, Levadne and Novodarivka in the southern Zaporizhzhia region, she said. Ukraine takes 90 sq km of area from Russia, seven settlements taken over in last week “The battles are tough, but our movement is there, and that is very important,” President Volodymyr Zelensky said in his nightly video address on Monday.” He added that rainy weather is challenging his troops, and that he’s discussed with his military commanders “which points of the front we need to strengthen and what actions we can take to break more Russian positions.” Malyar said Ukrainian forces had also regained control of the village of Storozheve in the south of the Donetsk region, near three villages recaptured on Sunday. "The area of the territory taken under control amounted to 90 square kilometres," Malyar said. Also read | Ukraine war: France's Macron promises more military aid to Kyiv as counteroffensive begins The Ukrainian defence ministry said its forces had advanced "250 to 700 metres" into the direction of the flashpoint city of Bakhmut. Also read | UN chief worried over Russia possibly quitting grain deal in July Earlier, Russia said that it repelled Ukrainian attacks in the same area in the Donetsk region near Velyka Novosilka. It also said it fought off Ukrainian attacks around the nearby village of Levadne in the neighbouring southern region of Zaporizhzhia. The claims by Moscow and Kyiv could not be verified independently. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia's 'massive missile' attack on Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih leaves 10 dead, 28 injured

<p>Local media have confirmed the first deaths due to the flooding from the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam in southern Ukraine.</p>

<p>According to The Kyiv Independent, three people drowned in the Kherson region.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, speaking in his nightly address, President Volodymyr Zelensky voiced fears for the lives of Ukrainians in Russian-held areas hit by the disaster.</p>

<p>He said it was difficult to predict the number of casualties in Russian-occupied parts of Kherson due to the flooding, urging a “clear and rapid reaction from the world” to support victims.</p>

<p>He also criticised slammed the United Nations and the Red Cross, who he said were not helping with the relief efforts. “Our military and special services are rescuing people as much as it is possible, despite the shelling. But large-scale efforts are needed,” he said.</p>

<p>“We need international organisations, such as the International Committee of the Red Cross, to immediately join the rescue operation and help people in the occupied part of Kherson region.</p>

<p>“If an international organisation is not present in the disaster zone, it means it does not exist at all or is incapable.”</p>

<h2><strong>Kherson inundated </strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the flooding situation looked grim in other parts of Ukraine. Around 600 square kilometres of Kherson Oblast has been flooded, Governor Oleksandr Prokudin said on Thursday.</p>

<p>Around 68 per cent of the flooded land is on the Russian-occupied east bank of the Dnipro River, while 32 per cent is on the Ukrainian-controlled west bank.</p>

<p>“As of the June 8 morning, the average water level in Kherson Oblast has reached 5.61 metres,” he said.</p>

<h2><strong>'Ukraine dam breach an environmental bomb' | WION Climate Tracker</strong></h2>

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<p>Russia's&nbsp;constant shelling on the west bank has&nbsp;so far&nbsp;not affected the evacuation efforts, Prokudin said, adding that 1,999 civilians have been rescued.</p>

<p>Most people were evacuated from Kherson's Korabel district, also known as Ostriv (Island), which has been among the most flooded areas.</p>

<p>Twenty settlements on the west bank were flooded, and 2,629 homes were affected, Kherson Oblast Military Administration&nbsp;reported&nbsp;on the same day.</p>

<p>Due to the flooding, 159 transformer substations in the region were disconnected, the gas supply to 14,716 consumers was interrupted, and all Kherson's Ostriv district residents were left without water supply, according to the regional administration.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Local media have confirmed the first deaths due to the flooding from the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam in southern Ukraine. According to The Kyiv Independent, three people drowned in the Kherson region.

Local media have confirmed the first deaths due to the flooding from the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam in southern Ukraine. According to The Kyiv Independent, three people drowned in the Kherson region. On Wednesday, speaking in his nightly address, President Volodymyr Zelensky voiced fears for the lives of Ukrainians in Russian-held areas hit by the disaster. He said it was difficult to predict the number of casualties in Russian-occupied parts of Kherson due to the flooding, urging a “clear and rapid reaction from the world” to support victims. He also criticised slammed the United Nations and the Red Cross, who he said were not helping with the relief efforts. “Our military and special services are rescuing people as much as it is possible, despite the shelling. But large-scale efforts are needed,” he said. “We need international organisations, such as the International Committee of the Red Cross, to immediately join the rescue operation and help people in the occupied part of Kherson region. “If an international organisation is not present in the disaster zone, it means it does not exist at all or is incapable.” Kherson inundated Meanwhile, the flooding situation looked grim in other parts of Ukraine. Around 600 square kilometres of Kherson Oblast has been flooded, Governor Oleksandr Prokudin said on Thursday. Around 68 per cent of the flooded land is on the Russian-occupied east bank of the Dnipro River, while 32 per cent is on the Ukrainian-controlled west bank. “As of the June 8 morning, the average water level in Kherson Oblast has reached 5.61 metres,” he said. 'Ukraine dam breach an environmental bomb' | WION Climate Tracker Russia's constant shelling on the west bank has so far not affected the evacuation efforts, Prokudin said, adding that 1,999 civilians have been rescued. Most people were evacuated from Kherson's Korabel district, also known as Ostriv (Island), which has been among the most flooded areas. Twenty settlements on the west bank were flooded, and 2,629 homes were affected, Kherson Oblast Military Administration reported on the same day. Due to the flooding, 159 transformer substations in the region were disconnected, the gas supply to 14,716 consumers was interrupted, and all Kherson's Ostriv district residents were left without water supply, according to the regional administration. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Three dead due to flooding from Kakhovka dam breach, 600 sq kms of Kherson Oblast under water

<p>During the Shangri-La Dialogue summit in Singapore, Indonesia's defense minister Prabowo Subianto, put forth a plan to end the war between Russia and Ukraine. However, his proposal received prompt criticism from other attendees. Subianto called for immediate cessation of hostilities between Russia and Ukraine, citing the adverse effects of the conflict on Asian nations' economies and food supplies.</p>

<p>He suggested a ceasefire at the current positions of the conflicting parties and the establishment of demilitarised zones, which would be guaranteed by observers and United Nations peacekeeping forces.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
“I call on Russia and Ukraine to embark on an immediate cessation of hostilities,” Subianto said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-electric-two-wheeler-retail-sales-hit-record-high-in-may-2023-600040">India's electric two-wheeler retail sales hit record high in May 2023</a></p>

<p>Subianto also proposed a "referendum in the disputed areas" to be organised by the UN. Furthermore, he expressed Indonesia's readiness to contribute units to a potential UN peacekeeping operation.</p>

<p>Indonesia, following its non-aligned diplomacy approach, had previously attempted to mediate peace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indonesian President, Joko Widodo, visited Kyiv and Moscow and held meetings with the leaders of both countries. However, Subianto's proposal faced criticism at the summit, with EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell stating that peace in Ukraine must be achieved on "just" terms, implying a fair resolution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Subianto responded by emphasising Indonesia's perspective and history, stating that he was presenting a conflict resolution plan without taking sides.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elon-musks-tweet-on-whatisawoman-fans-twitter-buzz-heres-all-you-need-to-know-600021">Elon Musk's tweet on #WhatIsAWoman fans Twitter buzz. Here's all you need to know</a></p>

<p>"I'm putting forward a conflict resolution plan," he added. "I'm not saying who is right or who is wrong."</p>

<p>Indonesia had previously voted in favour of a UN resolution condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine, but it has not implemented economic sanctions against Moscow.</p>

<h2><strong>China's peace plan on Russia-Ukraine conflict&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a document called "China's Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis" on the anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Pakistan to begin barter trade with Afghanistan, Iran and Russia</strong></p>

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<p>This document outlines a 12-point peace plan proposed by China to bring an end to the hostilities between Russia and Ukraine. The plan includes calling for a ceasefire, taking into account Russia's security concerns, providing humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, facilitating prisoner exchanges, and lifting unilateral sanctions, among other measures.</p>

<p>However, this peace plan was met with skepticism by European Union politicians due to its vagueness. While Beijing claims to be a neutral party in the conflict, it has faced criticism for its refusal to condemn Russia's invasion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the United States and Western allies have provided substantial military and financial aid to Ukraine since the invasion.</p>

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During the Shangri-La Dialogue summit in Singapore, Indonesia's defense minister Prabowo Subianto, put forth a plan to end the war between Russia and Ukraine. However, his proposal received prompt criticism from other attendees.

During the Shangri-La Dialogue summit in Singapore, Indonesia's defense minister Prabowo Subianto, put forth a plan to end the war between Russia and Ukraine. However, his proposal received prompt criticism from other attendees. Subianto called for immediate cessation of hostilities between Russia and Ukraine, citing the adverse effects of the conflict on Asian nations' economies and food supplies. He suggested a ceasefire at the current positions of the conflicting parties and the establishment of demilitarised zones, which would be guaranteed by observers and United Nations peacekeeping forces. “I call on Russia and Ukraine to embark on an immediate cessation of hostilities,” Subianto said. Also Read | India's electric two-wheeler retail sales hit record high in May 2023 Subianto also proposed a "referendum in the disputed areas" to be organised by the UN. Furthermore, he expressed Indonesia's readiness to contribute units to a potential UN peacekeeping operation. Indonesia, following its non-aligned diplomacy approach, had previously attempted to mediate peace. The Indonesian President, Joko Widodo, visited Kyiv and Moscow and held meetings with the leaders of both countries. However, Subianto's proposal faced criticism at the summit, with EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell stating that peace in Ukraine must be achieved on "just" terms, implying a fair resolution. Subianto responded by emphasising Indonesia's perspective and history, stating that he was presenting a conflict resolution plan without taking sides. Also Read | Elon Musk's tweet on #WhatIsAWoman fans Twitter buzz. Here's all you need to know "I'm putting forward a conflict resolution plan," he added. "I'm not saying who is right or who is wrong." Indonesia had previously voted in favour of a UN resolution condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine, but it has not implemented economic sanctions against Moscow. China's peace plan on Russia-Ukraine conflict China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a document called "China's Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis" on the anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Watch | Pakistan to begin barter trade with Afghanistan, Iran and Russia × This document outlines a 12-point peace plan proposed by China to bring an end to the hostilities between Russia and Ukraine. The plan includes calling for a ceasefire, taking into account Russia's security concerns, providing humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, facilitating prisoner exchanges, and lifting unilateral sanctions, among other measures. However, this peace plan was met with skepticism by European Union politicians due to its vagueness. While Beijing claims to be a neutral party in the conflict, it has faced criticism for its refusal to condemn Russia's invasion. Meanwhile, the United States and Western allies have provided substantial military and financial aid to Ukraine since the invasion. 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. ×

Indonesia’s peace plan to end Russia-Ukraine war draws criticism at Shangri-La Dialogue

<p>Russia-Ukraine war showed no signs of de-escalation on Friday (June 2) as air raid sirens were heard across the war-torn east European nation, including in the capital Kyiv. The officials in Kyiv claimed that they shot down 30 missiles and drones fired into the capital.</p>

<p>Moscow has launched dozens of separate missile and drone strikes against the Ukrainian cities since the start of May.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian military authorities wrote on Telegram that Russia had launched drones and cruise missiles at the same time.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-it-has-destroyed-ukraines-last-remaining-warship-598736">Russia claims it has destroyed Ukraine's last remaining warship</a></strong></p>

<p>"According to preliminary information, more than 30 air targets of various types were detected and destroyed in the airspace over and around Kyiv by air defence forces," they said in an official statement.</p>

<p>There were no calls for rescue, Kyiv Mayor&nbsp;Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram.</p>

<p>"There were explosions in the city. The air defense is working. Another wave of UAVs is heading for Kyiv," Mayor Klitschko added.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia-Ukraine war: The present picture</strong></h2>

<p>The <span style="font-size: 15px;">Ukrainian side has claimed that&nbsp;Russia has lost about 208,000 troops since the beginning of the war, according to Serhii Cherevatyi, spokesman for the Eastern Grouping of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The Kremlin has not responded to the Ukrainian claim of Russian losses in the war.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Ukraine: Russia will simulate attack on Zaporizhzhia power plant | Russia-Ukraine War</strong></span></p>

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<p>One of the strategic places Russian forces have controlled since nearly the beginning of the invasion is the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Other than that, Moscow says that it has been able to establish its control over Bakhmut while Kyiv says that the battle is still ongoing.</p>

<h2><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">Russia-Ukraine war: More international sanctions on Moscow</span></strong></h2>

<p>Russia’s deputy security council chair and former president, Dmitry Medvedev has said the conflict in Ukraine could last for decades and that negotiations with Ukraine were impossible as long as Volodymyr Zelenskiy was in power.</p>

<p>Adding to a spree of west-imposed sanctions on Russia after the beginning of war in Ukraine, Japan announced that it will place additional sanctions on Russia. The development comes after Tokyo&nbsp;hosted Group of Seven (G7) summit in Hiroshima city&nbsp;last week. The grouping had&nbsp;agreed to step up measures against Russia.</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>

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Russia-Ukraine war showed no signs of de-escalation on Friday (June 2) as air raid sirens were heard across the war-torn east European nation, including in the capital Kyiv.

Russia-Ukraine war showed no signs of de-escalation on Friday (June 2) as air raid sirens were heard across the war-torn east European nation, including in the capital Kyiv. The officials in Kyiv claimed that they shot down 30 missiles and drones fired into the capital. Moscow has launched dozens of separate missile and drone strikes against the Ukrainian cities since the start of May. The Ukrainian military authorities wrote on Telegram that Russia had launched drones and cruise missiles at the same time. Also read | Russia claims it has destroyed Ukraine's last remaining warship "According to preliminary information, more than 30 air targets of various types were detected and destroyed in the airspace over and around Kyiv by air defence forces," they said in an official statement. There were no calls for rescue, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram. "There were explosions in the city. The air defense is working. Another wave of UAVs is heading for Kyiv," Mayor Klitschko added. Russia-Ukraine war: The present picture The Ukrainian side has claimed that Russia has lost about 208,000 troops since the beginning of the war, according to Serhii Cherevatyi, spokesman for the Eastern Grouping of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The Kremlin has not responded to the Ukrainian claim of Russian losses in the war. Also watch | Ukraine: Russia will simulate attack on Zaporizhzhia power plant | Russia-Ukraine War × One of the strategic places Russian forces have controlled since nearly the beginning of the invasion is the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Other than that, Moscow says that it has been able to establish its control over Bakhmut while Kyiv says that the battle is still ongoing. Russia-Ukraine war: More international sanctions on Moscow Russia’s deputy security council chair and former president, Dmitry Medvedev has said the conflict in Ukraine could last for decades and that negotiations with Ukraine were impossible as long as Volodymyr Zelenskiy was in power. Adding to a spree of west-imposed sanctions on Russia after the beginning of war in Ukraine, Japan announced that it will place additional sanctions on Russia. The development comes after Tokyo hosted Group of Seven (G7) summit in Hiroshima city last week. The grouping had agreed to step up measures against Russia. (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 You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kyiv alarmed by air raid sirens as Russia launches fresh wave of attacks

<p>Russia issued a stern warning to the West on Sunday, saying that it is “playing with fire” by providing US-made F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine.</p>

<p>The remarks were made by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in an interview with a Russian TV that was posted on social media.</p>

<p>Calling the move "an unacceptable escalation" of the conflict, Sergei said, “It's playing with fire, without a doubt,” as he condemned the attempt to “weaken Russia” by “Washington, London and their satellites in the EU”.</p>

<p>Last week, the Biden administration announced that it is letting its allies in the EU export F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine.</p>

<p>On May 20, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said that President Joe Biden "informed his G7 counterparts" of the decision at the bloc's summit in Japan.</p>

<p>He also said that Kyiv's pilots will be given training by the US troops on how to operate these jets.</p>

<p>He also indicated that any jets Ukraine received would only be used for defence purposes and that the US would neither enable nor support attacks on Russian territory.</p>

<h2><strong>F-16 fighter jet coalition | Is the West preparing Ukraine for a suicide mission?</strong></h2>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">"The Ukrainians have consistently indicated that they are prepared to follow through on that," he said.</div>

<p>The decision was hailed by Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky as the embattled country had long been lobbying the West to supply jets so that they can launch a counteroffensive against the Russian troops.</p>

<p>Zelensky had said the jets would "greatly enhance our army in the sky".</p>

<p>Countries who want to resell or re-export American military equipment need to first get prior permission from the US. Hence, this decision clears the way for other nations to send their existing stocks of F-16s to Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>Will the F-16s be a game-changer for Ukraine?</strong></h2>

<p>The Lockheed Martin-made F-16s are single-engine, multi-role jet aircraft. They can be used in air-to-air or ground-attack missions.</p>

<p>The US Air Force calls the F-16, which first flew in the 1970s, a “relatively low-cost, high-performance weapon system.”</p>

<p>Thousands of jets have been built over the decades, and hundreds have been exported around the world.</p>

<p>According to Flight Global’s World Air Forces directory, almost 2,200 F-16s are active worldwide this year, making it the single-most popular combat aircraft across the planet with 15 per cent of the world’s fleet.</p>

<p>CNN, quoting experts, reported that F-16s for Ukraine are expected to be older versions that have been in the fleets of US allies, especially those in Western Europe.</p>

<p>Ukraine had said that it requires about 200 F-16s, but so far it is unknown how many it will receive.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russia issued a stern warning to the West on Sunday, saying that it is “playing with fire” by providing US-made F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. The remarks were made by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in an interview with a Russian TV that was posted on social media.

Russia issued a stern warning to the West on Sunday, saying that it is “playing with fire” by providing US-made F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. The remarks were made by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in an interview with a Russian TV that was posted on social media. Calling the move "an unacceptable escalation" of the conflict, Sergei said, “It's playing with fire, without a doubt,” as he condemned the attempt to “weaken Russia” by “Washington, London and their satellites in the EU”. Last week, the Biden administration announced that it is letting its allies in the EU export F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. On May 20, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said that President Joe Biden "informed his G7 counterparts" of the decision at the bloc's summit in Japan. He also said that Kyiv's pilots will be given training by the US troops on how to operate these jets. He also indicated that any jets Ukraine received would only be used for defence purposes and that the US would neither enable nor support attacks on Russian territory. F-16 fighter jet coalition | Is the West preparing Ukraine for a suicide mission? "The Ukrainians have consistently indicated that they are prepared to follow through on that," he said. The decision was hailed by Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky as the embattled country had long been lobbying the West to supply jets so that they can launch a counteroffensive against the Russian troops. Zelensky had said the jets would "greatly enhance our army in the sky". Countries who want to resell or re-export American military equipment need to first get prior permission from the US. Hence, this decision clears the way for other nations to send their existing stocks of F-16s to Ukraine. Will the F-16s be a game-changer for Ukraine? The Lockheed Martin-made F-16s are single-engine, multi-role jet aircraft. They can be used in air-to-air or ground-attack missions. The US Air Force calls the F-16, which first flew in the 1970s, a “relatively low-cost, high-performance weapon system.” Thousands of jets have been built over the decades, and hundreds have been exported around the world. According to Flight Global’s World Air Forces directory, almost 2,200 F-16s are active worldwide this year, making it the single-most popular combat aircraft across the planet with 15 per cent of the world’s fleet. CNN, quoting experts, reported that F-16s for Ukraine are expected to be older versions that have been in the fleets of US allies, especially those in Western Europe. Ukraine had said that it requires about 200 F-16s, but so far it is unknown how many it will receive. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘West playing with fire’: Russia slams move to supply F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine

<p><meta charset="utf-8" />At least two people were killed and more than 31 injured, including two children, after a missile struck a medical facility in the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that missile was Russia-made, and called it a 'crime against humanity' as he shared a video of the place where the missile hit. It showed smoke coming out of the roofless buildings&nbsp;with blown-out windows.<br />
<br />
"Another (Russian) missile attack, another crime against humanity," Zelenskiy wrote on Twitter, describing the damage.&nbsp;"Only an evil state can fight against clinics. There can be no military purpose in this. It is pure Russian terror," he added.<br />
<br />
“There are 23 injured in Dnipro,” the head of the regional military administration Sergiy Lysak wrote on Telegram, after several buildings were hit.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The fire covered 1,000 square metres of the medical facility, where a three-story building was partially destroyed, Lysak added.</p>

<p dir="ltr">He added that rescue workers are searching for people under the rubble.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Among the dead is a 69-year-old man. “He was just passing by when a Russian terrorist missile hit the city…,” the official added.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia vs The West: What are tactical nuclear weapons?</strong></h2>

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<p>Zelensky said that with a strike on a medical facility, “Russian terrorists once again confirm their status of fighters against everything humane and honest.”</p>

<p dir="ltr">Among the 23 injured are two boys aged three and six, who have been hospitalised along with 19 others, Lysak said. Three are said to be in a critical condition.</p>

<p dir="ltr">A clip shared by the local media purportedly showed rescuers helping the badly injured people as they escape from the clinic through corridors full of rubble.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Ukrainian Prosecutor General's Office claimed that at least four people are missing following the attack in Dnipro.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">Earlier, Lysak claimed that the region came under a "mass attack...with missiles and drones" on Thursday night.</p>

<p dir="ltr">"It was a very difficult night. It was loud," he said. "Dnipro has suffered."</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Dnpiro comes under fresh attack</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">The latest attack on Dnpiro comes after the Ukrainian authorities claimed to have shot down 17 missiles and 31 drones launched from Russia overnight.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Several drones and missiles hit targets in Dnipro and the eastern city of Kharkiv, including an oil depot.</p>

<p dir="ltr">They said that Ukraine's capital Kyiv was also targeted, adding that bits of intercepted drones fell on the roof of a shopping centre, while a house and several cars were damaged.</p>

<p dir="ltr">In Russia, a blast damaged a residential and office building in the southern city of Krasnodar, east of Crimea, on Friday morning.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>

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At least two people were killed and more than 31 injured, including two children, after a missile struck a medical facility in the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Friday.

At least two people were killed and more than 31 injured, including two children, after a missile struck a medical facility in the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Friday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that missile was Russia-made, and called it a 'crime against humanity' as he shared a video of the place where the missile hit. It showed smoke coming out of the roofless buildings with blown-out windows. "Another (Russian) missile attack, another crime against humanity," Zelenskiy wrote on Twitter, describing the damage. "Only an evil state can fight against clinics. There can be no military purpose in this. It is pure Russian terror," he added. “There are 23 injured in Dnipro,” the head of the regional military administration Sergiy Lysak wrote on Telegram, after several buildings were hit. The fire covered 1,000 square metres of the medical facility, where a three-story building was partially destroyed, Lysak added. He added that rescue workers are searching for people under the rubble. Among the dead is a 69-year-old man. “He was just passing by when a Russian terrorist missile hit the city…,” the official added. Russia vs The West: What are tactical nuclear weapons? Zelensky said that with a strike on a medical facility, “Russian terrorists once again confirm their status of fighters against everything humane and honest.” Among the 23 injured are two boys aged three and six, who have been hospitalised along with 19 others, Lysak said. Three are said to be in a critical condition. A clip shared by the local media purportedly showed rescuers helping the badly injured people as they escape from the clinic through corridors full of rubble. Ukrainian Prosecutor General's Office claimed that at least four people are missing following the attack in Dnipro. Earlier, Lysak claimed that the region came under a "mass attack...with missiles and drones" on Thursday night. "It was a very difficult night. It was loud," he said. "Dnipro has suffered." Dnpiro comes under fresh attack The latest attack on Dnpiro comes after the Ukrainian authorities claimed to have shot down 17 missiles and 31 drones launched from Russia overnight. Several drones and missiles hit targets in Dnipro and the eastern city of Kharkiv, including an oil depot. They said that Ukraine's capital Kyiv was also targeted, adding that bits of intercepted drones fell on the roof of a shopping centre, while a house and several cars were damaged. In Russia, a blast damaged a residential and office building in the southern city of Krasnodar, east of Crimea, on Friday morning. (With inputs from agencies)

Two killed, 31 injured as Russian missile strikes clinic in Ukraine’s Dnipro

<p>The United States has imposed sanctions on the mercenary group Wagner’s local boss in Mali. The announcement was made by the US Treasury Department on Friday, claiming that the group's&nbsp;head Ivan Maslov was in Bali to obtain military equipment for the Ukranian war, apart from securing arms from other African countries.</p>

<p><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p dir="ltr">The Treasury Department claimed that Wagner employees may be trying to procure mines, drones and radar equipment.</p>

<p dir="ltr">There have been media reports that Wagner has been operating in some African countries, including Mali, and expanding its presence in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">It has been alleged that the group has been providing Mali's military government with assistance in the fight against Islamist insurgents.</p>

<p dir="ltr">“Today, the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned Ivan Aleksandrovich Maslov (Maslov), the head of Russian Private Military Company ‘Wagner’ (Wagner Group) paramilitary units and its principal administrator based in Mali,” the Treasury said in a statement, according to CNN.</p>

<p dir="ltr">“The Wagner Group may be attempting to obscure its efforts to acquire military equipment for use in Ukraine, including by working through Mali and other countries where it has a foothold. The United States opposes efforts by any country to assist Russia through the Wagner Group,” it added.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Wagner working with Malian officials</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">The US sees Maslov as a key figure in Wagner group, working with Malian officials to build the military group’s presence.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The Treasury believes that the group might be trying to exploit the abundance of arms in Mali.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">"The Wagner Group's presence on the African continent is a destabilising force for any country that allows for the deployment of the group's resources into their sovereign territory," the US Treasury Department statement said.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The US also insinuated that Wagner might be "seeking to transit material acquisitions for Ukraine through Mali" and was "willing to use false paperwork for these transactions".</p>

<p dir="ltr">It also accused Wagner of supplying Sudan's Rapid Support Forces with missiles for its conflict with the Sudanese army.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Wagner has been the key cog in Russia’s renewed offensive in Ukraine. The group has been responsible in securing the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut after months of protracted battle.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">On Thursday, Wagner began withdrawing its troops in order to hand control over to the Russian military.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Earlier this year, the US designated Wagner as a transnational criminal organisation. Prigozhin and other Wagner leaders are already subject to sanctions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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The United States has imposed sanctions on the mercenary group Wagner’s local boss in Mali. The announcement was made by the US Treasury Department on Friday, claiming that the group's head Ivan Maslov was in Bali to obtain military equipment for the Ukranian war, apart from securing arms from other African countries.

The United States has imposed sanctions on the mercenary group Wagner’s local boss in Mali. The announcement was made by the US Treasury Department on Friday, claiming that the group's head Ivan Maslov was in Bali to obtain military equipment for the Ukranian war, apart from securing arms from other African countries. The Treasury Department claimed that Wagner employees may be trying to procure mines, drones and radar equipment. There have been media reports that Wagner has been operating in some African countries, including Mali, and expanding its presence in the region. It has been alleged that the group has been providing Mali's military government with assistance in the fight against Islamist insurgents. “Today, the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned Ivan Aleksandrovich Maslov (Maslov), the head of Russian Private Military Company ‘Wagner’ (Wagner Group) paramilitary units and its principal administrator based in Mali,” the Treasury said in a statement, according to CNN. “The Wagner Group may be attempting to obscure its efforts to acquire military equipment for use in Ukraine, including by working through Mali and other countries where it has a foothold. The United States opposes efforts by any country to assist Russia through the Wagner Group,” it added. Wagner working with Malian officials The US sees Maslov as a key figure in Wagner group, working with Malian officials to build the military group’s presence. The Treasury believes that the group might be trying to exploit the abundance of arms in Mali. "The Wagner Group's presence on the African continent is a destabilising force for any country that allows for the deployment of the group's resources into their sovereign territory," the US Treasury Department statement said. The US also insinuated that Wagner might be "seeking to transit material acquisitions for Ukraine through Mali" and was "willing to use false paperwork for these transactions". It also accused Wagner of supplying Sudan's Rapid Support Forces with missiles for its conflict with the Sudanese army. Wagner has been the key cog in Russia’s renewed offensive in Ukraine. The group has been responsible in securing the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut after months of protracted battle. On Thursday, Wagner began withdrawing its troops in order to hand control over to the Russian military. Earlier this year, the US designated Wagner as a transnational criminal organisation. Prigozhin and other Wagner leaders are already subject to sanctions. (With inputs from agencies)

US sanctions Wagner’s local chief in Mali, claims group sourcing weapons to Russia

<p>Ukrainian&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;player Lesia Tsurenko says she and her compatriots' only resort is to beat their Russian and Belarusian rivals "on any field" as she is resigned to sports organisations not taking tougher action. Russian and Belarusian players have been competing on both the ATP and WTA tours under a neutral flag since Vladimir Putin launched Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 with the assistance of Belarus.</p>

<p>Tsurenko, 33, told AFP in an interview she was feeling "big stress" as she waits to see if she is drawn against a Russian or Belarusian in the French Open which starts on Sunday. However, she also sounded a defiant note. "My message for the French Open is it is like what I said about other sports - we just have to go and beat them on any field," she said. "There is no sense for Ukrainian sportsmen to give up. What sort of message does that give?</p>

<p>"In&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;we tried so many things to ban them and the&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;organisations do not want to listen to us." Tsurenko is frustrated by the lack of support, even in private, she and her fellow Ukrainians have received from Russian and Belarusian rivals even though some "used to be very good friends".</p>

<p>"Just one person spoke directly to me the first day of the war," she said. "That person told me with tears in their eyes that everything going on is so terrible. "Now no more players talk to me. I do not have much sympathy for any of them. I can just say if they suffer we suffer much more. "There are many ways that you can help in these cases. You can change citizenship or move your family if you are afraid. "I honestly do not think they want to speak out because those who support the war will be revealed."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-lakers-lebron-james-not-sure-of-returning-next-season-after-exit-from-west-finals-595841">NBA: Lakers' LeBron James 'not sure' of returning next season after exit from West Finals</a></strong></p>

<h2>- 'Using my name' -</h2>

<p>Tsurenko -- ranked 63 in the world having reached a career-high 23 -- had a well-publicised panic attack which forced her to withdraw from playing&nbsp;Australian Open&nbsp;champion Aryna Sabalenka from Belarus in the third round of the Indian Wells tournament in April. Tsurenko said the panic attack stemmed from an "unpleasant conversation" with WTA CEO Steve Simon.</p>

<p>"I was so shocked that a year ago Steve Simon told us if any player will show their support for the war, this person will be banned. "Then one year on he changes his attitude to, 'it is ok to support the war'. "It shocked me so much it just blew my mind."</p>

<p>Tsurenko was able somehow, she says, to win her second round match but saw herself being used as a propaganda tool if she played Sabalenka. "I just imagined if I played that match on centre court then people like Simon will say at a sports chiefs meeting 'you know they played against each other and it is okay'. "He would be using my name in a way I do not want it to be used."</p>

<p>Tsurenko, whose best Grand Slam performance was a quarter-final at the 2018 US Open, says incredulously the "Russians think they are owed something". "I have a feeling now the IOC is using&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;as some kind of bridge... to say&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;is all good, they are playing against each other and it is not a problem and will use that in their decision about the Olympics. "But it is a problem. It is very tough for Ukrainians to play against Russia and Belarus because of many reasons.</p>

<p>"The WTA and IOC are only looking at sports from a perspective of Russian and Belarusian human rights and ignore the violations of the Ukrainians' rights."&nbsp; Tsurenko has yet to return to Ukraine since the invasion but her mother Larisa and sister Oksana have remained there -- the latter in Kyiv which this month has come under renewed bombardment. "She tells me she feels like a zombie," said Tsurenko. "She is woken up every night and has to go to a safe place."</p>

<p>Tsurenko though is determined one day she will move back to the capital city. "Kyiv is my biggest love. That is my city and the place I love most."</p>


Ukrainian tennis player Lesia Tsurenko says she and her compatriots' only resort is to beat their Russian and Belarusian rivals "on any field" as she is resigned to sports organisations not taking tougher action.

Ukrainian tennis player Lesia Tsurenko says she and her compatriots' only resort is to beat their Russian and Belarusian rivals "on any field" as she is resigned to sports organisations not taking tougher action. Russian and Belarusian players have been competing on both the ATP and WTA tours under a neutral flag since Vladimir Putin launched Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 with the assistance of Belarus. Tsurenko, 33, told AFP in an interview she was feeling "big stress" as she waits to see if she is drawn against a Russian or Belarusian in the French Open which starts on Sunday. However, she also sounded a defiant note. "My message for the French Open is it is like what I said about other sports - we just have to go and beat them on any field," she said. "There is no sense for Ukrainian sportsmen to give up. What sort of message does that give? "In tennis we tried so many things to ban them and the tennis organisations do not want to listen to us." Tsurenko is frustrated by the lack of support, even in private, she and her fellow Ukrainians have received from Russian and Belarusian rivals even though some "used to be very good friends". "Just one person spoke directly to me the first day of the war," she said. "That person told me with tears in their eyes that everything going on is so terrible. "Now no more players talk to me. I do not have much sympathy for any of them. I can just say if they suffer we suffer much more. "There are many ways that you can help in these cases. You can change citizenship or move your family if you are afraid. "I honestly do not think they want to speak out because those who support the war will be revealed." Also Read: NBA: Lakers' LeBron James 'not sure' of returning next season after exit from West Finals - 'Using my name' - Tsurenko -- ranked 63 in the world having reached a career-high 23 -- had a well-publicised panic attack which forced her to withdraw from playing Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka from Belarus in the third round of the Indian Wells tournament in April. Tsurenko said the panic attack stemmed from an "unpleasant conversation" with WTA CEO Steve Simon. "I was so shocked that a year ago Steve Simon told us if any player will show their support for the war, this person will be banned. "Then one year on he changes his attitude to, 'it is ok to support the war'. "It shocked me so much it just blew my mind." Tsurenko was able somehow, she says, to win her second round match but saw herself being used as a propaganda tool if she played Sabalenka. "I just imagined if I played that match on centre court then people like Simon will say at a sports chiefs meeting 'you know they played against each other and it is okay'. "He would be using my name in a way I do not want it to be used." Tsurenko, whose best Grand Slam performance was a quarter-final at the 2018 US Open, says incredulously the "Russians think they are owed something". "I have a feeling now the IOC is using tennis as some kind of bridge... to say tennis is all good, they are playing against each other and it is not a problem and will use that in their decision about the Olympics. "But it is a problem. It is very tough for Ukrainians to play against Russia and Belarus because of many reasons. "The WTA and IOC are only looking at sports from a perspective of Russian and Belarusian human rights and ignore the violations of the Ukrainians' rights." Tsurenko has yet to return to Ukraine since the invasion but her mother Larisa and sister Oksana have remained there -- the latter in Kyiv which this month has come under renewed bombardment. "She tells me she feels like a zombie," said Tsurenko. "She is woken up every night and has to go to a safe place." Tsurenko though is determined one day she will move back to the capital city. "Kyiv is my biggest love. That is my city and the place I love most."

Tennis player Leise Tsurenko urges Ukrainians to beat Russians 'on any field'

<p>Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky continued to insist on Sunday that the besieged Ukrainian city of Bakhmut has “not been occupied”, despite Russia claiming victory.</p>

<p>"Bakhmut is not occupied by Russia today,"&nbsp;Zelensky told a press conference during the G7 summit in Hiroshima, according to AFP news agency.</p>

<p>"They are in Bakhmut," he said, not clarifying if that referred to Russian or Ukrainian troops.</p>

<p>"I cannot share with you the tactical views of our military. The most difficult thing would be if there was some tactical mistake in Bakhmut and our people were surrounded," he said.</p>

<p>On Saturday, the chief of the Russian mercenary Wagner Group claimed that they have taken full control of Bakhmut following months of a protracted and bloody war with the Ukrainian troops.</p>

<p>Its chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, in a video where he is seen posing with some of his fighters, said that his forces had control of the entire city.</p>

<p>A day later, President Vladimir Putin lauded the Russian troops and Wagner for the hard-fought battle for Bakhmut and announced that all troops who had excelled would get state awards.</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky compares fall of Bakhmut to Hiroshima bombing</strong></h2>

<p>In his media interaction, Zelensky drew parallels to the "total destruction" of Bakhmut to the 1945 US atomic bombing of Hiroshima, which is now hosting the G7 summit.</p>

<p>"The photos of Hiroshima remind me of Bakhmut. There is absolutely nothing alive. All the buildings are destroyed,"&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Absolute total destruction. There is nothing. There are no people."</p>

<h2><strong>Putin congratulates Russian army and Wagner on success over Bakhmut</strong></h2>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-putin-congratulates-russian-army-and-wagner-on-success-over-bakhmut-594804/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>He said that the way Japan rebuilt&nbsp;Hiroshima inspired him to rebuild Ukrainian cities and towns destroyed in the invasion.</p>

<p>"Now, Hiroshima is rebuilt," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We dream of rebuilding all our cities that are now in ruins and every village where not a single house is left after Russian strikes."</p>

<p>Without giving a clear answer,&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;said Russian troops were in Bakhmut but insisted it was "not occupied".</p>

<h2><strong>No evidence that India, China and Brazil sending weapons to Russia</strong></h2>

<p>Zelensky said that there are no reports to suggest that Brazil, China and India are sending weapons to&nbsp;Russia.</p>

<p>He added that it was important to “be united together” to involve everyone in the peace formula.</p>

<p>He said he had met almost all the G7 leaders, but cited&nbsp;scheduling as the reason for not meeting with the Brazilian president.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs&nbsp;from&nbsp;agencies)</em></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky continued to insist on Sunday that the besieged Ukrainian city of Bakhmut has “not been occupied”, despite Russia claiming victory.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky continued to insist on Sunday that the besieged Ukrainian city of Bakhmut has “not been occupied”, despite Russia claiming victory. "Bakhmut is not occupied by Russia today," Zelensky told a press conference during the G7 summit in Hiroshima, according to AFP news agency. "They are in Bakhmut," he said, not clarifying if that referred to Russian or Ukrainian troops. "I cannot share with you the tactical views of our military. The most difficult thing would be if there was some tactical mistake in Bakhmut and our people were surrounded," he said. On Saturday, the chief of the Russian mercenary Wagner Group claimed that they have taken full control of Bakhmut following months of a protracted and bloody war with the Ukrainian troops. Its chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, in a video where he is seen posing with some of his fighters, said that his forces had control of the entire city. A day later, President Vladimir Putin lauded the Russian troops and Wagner for the hard-fought battle for Bakhmut and announced that all troops who had excelled would get state awards. Zelensky compares fall of Bakhmut to Hiroshima bombing In his media interaction, Zelensky drew parallels to the "total destruction" of Bakhmut to the 1945 US atomic bombing of Hiroshima, which is now hosting the G7 summit. "The photos of Hiroshima remind me of Bakhmut. There is absolutely nothing alive. All the buildings are destroyed," Zelensky said. "Absolute total destruction. There is nothing. There are no people." Putin congratulates Russian army and Wagner on success over Bakhmut He said that the way Japan rebuilt Hiroshima inspired him to rebuild Ukrainian cities and towns destroyed in the invasion. "Now, Hiroshima is rebuilt," he said. "We dream of rebuilding all our cities that are now in ruins and every village where not a single house is left after Russian strikes." Without giving a clear answer, Zelensky said Russian troops were in Bakhmut but insisted it was "not occupied". No evidence that India, China and Brazil sending weapons to Russia Zelensky said that there are no reports to suggest that Brazil, China and India are sending weapons to Russia. He added that it was important to “be united together” to involve everyone in the peace formula. He said he had met almost all the G7 leaders, but cited scheduling as the reason for not meeting with the Brazilian president. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Bakhmut not occupied,’ insists Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky despite Russia claiming victory

<p>The Group of Seven (G7) countries on Friday vowed to “starve Russia of G7 technology, industrial equipment and services that support its war machine”, as it announced a plethora of sanctions to punish Vladimir Putin for launching an invasion against Ukraine.</p>

<p>The announcement came during the historic meeting in Hiroshima city of Japan, where the leaders of G7 countries vowed to restrict Russia’s access to G7 economies. The decision was made ahead of Ukraine President&nbsp;Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to the city.</p>

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<p>The Group of Seven (G7) consists of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States. Additionally, the European Union (EU) is a "non-enumerated member."</p>
</section>

<p>During the talks, the bloc pledged “to stand together against Russia's illegal, unjustifiable, and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine."</p>

<p>“We will broaden our actions to ensure that exports of all items critical to Russia’s aggression... are restricted across all our jurisdictions,” they said in a joint statement.</p>

<p>“We will starve Russia of G7 technology, industrial equipment and services that support its war machine,” the bloc added.</p>

<p>The grouping said they would step up efforts to prevent circumvention of their existing sanctions regime, “including targeting entities transporting material to the front”.</p>

<h2><strong>G7 Hiroshima Summit 2023: UK imposes sanctions on Russian diamonds ahead of G7 Summit</strong></h2>

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<h2>‘Russia's invasion illegal, unjustifiable, and unprovoked’</h2>

<p>The G7 leaders termed Russia's invasion "illegal, unjustifiable, and unprovoked" and called on President Vladimir Putin to "immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw its troops and military equipment from the entire internationally recognised territory of Ukraine".</p>

<p>"We condemn, in the strongest terms, Russia’s manifest violation of the Charter of the United Nations (UN) and the impact of Russia’s war on the rest of the world," they said while pledging more financial, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support to Kyiv "for as long as it takes."</p>

<p>"We express our full sympathy and condolences to the Ukrainian people for their loss and suffering.&nbsp;We salute the Ukrainian people for their brave resistance. Our support for Ukraine will not waver. We will not tire in our commitment to mitigate the impact of Russia’s illegal actions on the rest of the world."</p>

<h2><strong>Fresh sanctions by US, UK</strong></h2>

<p>According to local media reports, the US at the G7 summit announced new set of sanctions on Friday in a bid to tighten screws on Moscow.</p>

<p>"All G7 members are preparing to implement new sanctions and export controls," a US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told reporters in Hiroshima, according to AFP.</p>

<p>He, however, did not disclose what were the G7 members planning but said that taken together with a substantial US package, they will "make it” even harder for Russia to sustain its war machine".</p>

<p>The US measures will aim to "extensively restrict Russia's access to goods that matter for its battlefield capabilities", the official said.</p>

<p>Britain has banned Russian diamonds in a new wave of sanctions to pressure Russia that will also prohibit imports of Russian-origin copper, aluminium and nickel.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The Group of Seven (G7) countries on Friday vowed to “starve Russia of G7 technology, industrial equipment and services that support its war machine”, as it announced a plethora of sanctions to punish Vladimir Putin for launching an invasion against Ukraine.

The Group of Seven (G7) countries on Friday vowed to “starve Russia of G7 technology, industrial equipment and services that support its war machine”, as it announced a plethora of sanctions to punish Vladimir Putin for launching an invasion against Ukraine. The announcement came during the historic meeting in Hiroshima city of Japan, where the leaders of G7 countries vowed to restrict Russia’s access to G7 economies. The decision was made ahead of Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to the city. The Group of Seven (G7) consists of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States. Additionally, the European Union (EU) is a "non-enumerated member." During the talks, the bloc pledged “to stand together against Russia's illegal, unjustifiable, and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine." “We will broaden our actions to ensure that exports of all items critical to Russia’s aggression... are restricted across all our jurisdictions,” they said in a joint statement. “We will starve Russia of G7 technology, industrial equipment and services that support its war machine,” the bloc added. The grouping said they would step up efforts to prevent circumvention of their existing sanctions regime, “including targeting entities transporting material to the front”. G7 Hiroshima Summit 2023: UK imposes sanctions on Russian diamonds ahead of G7 Summit ‘Russia's invasion illegal, unjustifiable, and unprovoked’ The G7 leaders termed Russia's invasion "illegal, unjustifiable, and unprovoked" and called on President Vladimir Putin to "immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw its troops and military equipment from the entire internationally recognised territory of Ukraine". "We condemn, in the strongest terms, Russia’s manifest violation of the Charter of the United Nations (UN) and the impact of Russia’s war on the rest of the world," they said while pledging more financial, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support to Kyiv "for as long as it takes." "We express our full sympathy and condolences to the Ukrainian people for their loss and suffering. We salute the Ukrainian people for their brave resistance. Our support for Ukraine will not waver. We will not tire in our commitment to mitigate the impact of Russia’s illegal actions on the rest of the world." Fresh sanctions by US, UK According to local media reports, the US at the G7 summit announced new set of sanctions on Friday in a bid to tighten screws on Moscow. "All G7 members are preparing to implement new sanctions and export controls," a US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told reporters in Hiroshima, according to AFP. He, however, did not disclose what were the G7 members planning but said that taken together with a substantial US package, they will "make it” even harder for Russia to sustain its war machine". The US measures will aim to "extensively restrict Russia's access to goods that matter for its battlefield capabilities", the official said. Britain has banned Russian diamonds in a new wave of sanctions to pressure Russia that will also prohibit imports of Russian-origin copper, aluminium and nickel. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

G7 leaders vow new set of tech, services sanctions to ‘starve Russian war machine’

<p>Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky landed in the UK on Monday (May 15) in a ‘surprise visit’ to meet Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for “substantive negotiations” to secure more military support for his country’s war effort against Russia.</p>

<p>The UK said that it would supply long-range missiles that Ukraine requested to fight the Russian invasion.</p>

<p>"The UK is a leader when it comes to expanding our capabilities on the ground and in the air. This cooperation will continue today. I will meet my friend Rishi. We will conduct substantive negotiations face-to-face and in delegations," Zelensky said on Twitter hours before landing in London.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Today – London. The UK is a leader when it comes to expanding our capabilities on the ground and in the air. This cooperation will continue today. I will meet my friend Rishi. We will conduct substantive negotiations face-to-face and in delegations.</p>
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1657990871541751819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">President <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZelenskyyUa</a> arrives in the UK for discussions with Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/RishiSunak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishiSunak</a> on Ukraine’s ongoing military resistance to Putin’s brutal invasion. <a href="https://t.co/Qh2tfpFDZE">pic.twitter.com/Qh2tfpFDZE</a></p>
— UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) <a href="https://twitter.com/10DowningStreet/status/1658037524353122305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>For the past few days, the Ukrainian leader&nbsp;has been meeting several Western leaders in order to jack up support as his country gears up for a counteroffensive against the invading Russian forces.</p>

<p>A statement issued by No 10, Downing Street on Monday said Sunak would reiterate the importance of providing a full package of support to Ukraine during the talks at Chequers, the prime minister's official country residence, reports BBC.</p>

<p>"We must not let them [Ukraine] down," the prime minister said, adding it was "a crucial moment" in Ukraine's war effort.</p>

<p>"The front lines of Putin's war of aggression may be in Ukraine but the faultlines stretch all over the world. It is in all our interest to ensure Ukraine succeeds and Putin's barbarism is not rewarded," it said.</p>

<p>The meeting with Sunak comes hours after Zelensky’s Paris visit, where he met President Emanuel Macron to discuss Ukraine's military and humanitarian needs.</p>

<h2><strong>France to provide advanced weaponry to Kyiv&nbsp;</strong></h2>

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<p>France agreed to provide dozens more light tanks and armoured vehicles for Ukraine's army, together with training for the soldiers using them.</p>

<p>"In the coming weeks, France will train and equip several battalions with tens of armoured vehicles and light tanks including AMX-10RC," their joint statement stated.</p>

<p>Paris would also focus its efforts "in supporting Ukraine's air defence capacities in order to defend its population against Russian strikes".&nbsp;</p>

<p>A day before landing in Paris, Zelensky also had a meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who promised €2.7billion ($2.9bn) worth of weapons.</p>

<p>It includes advanced German Leopard tanks and more anti-aircraft systems to defend Ukraine from almost daily deadly Russian missile and drone attacks.</p>

<p>Zelensky described the new tranche as "the largest since the beginning of the full-scale aggression" by Russia in February 2022.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky landed in the UK on Monday (May 15) in a ‘surprise visit’ to meet Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for “substantive negotiations” to secure more military support for his country’s war effort against Russia.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky landed in the UK on Monday (May 15) in a ‘surprise visit’ to meet Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for “substantive negotiations” to secure more military support for his country’s war effort against Russia. The UK said that it would supply long-range missiles that Ukraine requested to fight the Russian invasion. "The UK is a leader when it comes to expanding our capabilities on the ground and in the air. This cooperation will continue today. I will meet my friend Rishi. We will conduct substantive negotiations face-to-face and in delegations," Zelensky said on Twitter hours before landing in London. Today – London. The UK is a leader when it comes to expanding our capabilities on the ground and in the air. This cooperation will continue today. I will meet my friend Rishi. We will conduct substantive negotiations face-to-face and in delegations. — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) May 15, 2023 × President @ZelenskyyUa arrives in the UK for discussions with Prime Minister @RishiSunak on Ukraine’s ongoing military resistance to Putin’s brutal invasion. pic.twitter.com/Qh2tfpFDZE — UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) May 15, 2023 × For the past few days, the Ukrainian leader has been meeting several Western leaders in order to jack up support as his country gears up for a counteroffensive against the invading Russian forces. A statement issued by No 10, Downing Street on Monday said Sunak would reiterate the importance of providing a full package of support to Ukraine during the talks at Chequers, the prime minister's official country residence, reports BBC. "We must not let them [Ukraine] down," the prime minister said, adding it was "a crucial moment" in Ukraine's war effort. "The front lines of Putin's war of aggression may be in Ukraine but the faultlines stretch all over the world. It is in all our interest to ensure Ukraine succeeds and Putin's barbarism is not rewarded," it said. The meeting with Sunak comes hours after Zelensky’s Paris visit, where he met President Emanuel Macron to discuss Ukraine's military and humanitarian needs. France to provide advanced weaponry to Kyiv France agreed to provide dozens more light tanks and armoured vehicles for Ukraine's army, together with training for the soldiers using them. "In the coming weeks, France will train and equip several battalions with tens of armoured vehicles and light tanks including AMX-10RC," their joint statement stated. Paris would also focus its efforts "in supporting Ukraine's air defence capacities in order to defend its population against Russian strikes". A day before landing in Paris, Zelensky also had a meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who promised €2.7billion ($2.9bn) worth of weapons. It includes advanced German Leopard tanks and more anti-aircraft systems to defend Ukraine from almost daily deadly Russian missile and drone attacks. Zelensky described the new tranche as "the largest since the beginning of the full-scale aggression" by Russia in February 2022. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

After stopping over in France and Germany, Zelensky lands in UK for more weapons, Sunak pledges aid

<p>The situation in the Russia-Ukraine war continues to remain tense as a Russian-installed official said early on Sunday that Ukraine struck the Crimean Peninsula overnight with over 10 drones, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per reports, three of these drones hit the port of Sevastopol. The official added that Sevastopol's air defence systems were able to successfully thwart all of the strikes.</p>

<p>"No objects (in Sevastopol) were damaged," the Moscow-installed Sevastopol governor Mikhail Razvozhayev said on Telegram.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-kishida-heads-to-seoul-for-landmark-summit-with-yoon-589868">Japan's Kishida heads to Seoul for landmark summit with Yoon</a></p>

<p>No damages from the attacks were reported from elsewhere on the Crimean Peninsula. Crimea was seized by Russia from Ukraine in 2014. Russian forces launched a major military offensive into Ukraine, which included significant advances into Ukrainian territory. The offensive was characterized by intense fighting, and many civilians were displaced from their homes.</p>

<p>The war in Eastern Europe is entering a significant phase with Ukraine's spring offensive. With this, there are significant stakes for war.</p>

<p>According to preliminary information, there were no injuries reported following Ukraine's drone strikes on Crimea. Telegram channel Baza, which has connections to Russian law enforcement, claimed the incident to be a series of strikes on Crimea earlier on Sunday.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-at-least-nine-shot-at-mall-in-texas-shooter-killed-by-police-589857">At least nine people killed in shooting at Texas mall; gunman killed by police</a></p>

<p>Explosions took place in Sevastopol and Saki, where Russia has an air base. A few other places also came under attack, as per Ukrainian Telegram channels.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | World at War: How is Russia's Wagner Group sending weapons into Sudan?</strong></p>

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<p>The last two weeks have seen an increase in attacks against Russian-controlled locations, particularly in Crimea. Without denying any involvement in the strikes, Ukraine claims that destroying infrastructure is a prelude to its upcoming ground offensive.</p>

<p>For months, the war's most severe combat has been taking place in the battle for Bakhmut. Russia views this as a crucial battlefield to advance to other cities in eastern Ukraine's Donbas area.</p>

<p>Thousands of lives have reportedly been lost on both sides during this battle. Despite being driven back in recent weeks, Ukrainian forces were still able to maintain some degree of control over the region while dealing as much damage as they could to both regular Russian soldiers and soldiers from the Wagner mercenary group.</p>

<p>The Wagner group, which has led the charge in the conflict to seize Bakhmut, has declared it will leave the area on 10th May. Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of Wagner Group, stated in a statement on Friday that the retreat was because of a shortage of ammunition supply.</p>

<p>Chechen leader and a staunch ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ramzan Kadyrov, said his forces are ready to replace Wagner Group mercenaries in Bakhmut.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kadyrov is a former militia leader who fought against Russian forces during the First Chechen War in the 1990s. However, he later switched sides and became a loyal supporter of the Russian government when he abandoned Chechnya's separatist movement.&nbsp;</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>

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The situation in the Russia-Ukraine war continues to remain tense as a Russian-installed official said early on Sunday that Ukraine struck the Crimean Peninsula overnight with over 10 drones, reported Reuters.

The situation in the Russia-Ukraine war continues to remain tense as a Russian-installed official said early on Sunday that Ukraine struck the Crimean Peninsula overnight with over 10 drones, reported Reuters. As per reports, three of these drones hit the port of Sevastopol. The official added that Sevastopol's air defence systems were able to successfully thwart all of the strikes. "No objects (in Sevastopol) were damaged," the Moscow-installed Sevastopol governor Mikhail Razvozhayev said on Telegram. Also Read | Japan's Kishida heads to Seoul for landmark summit with Yoon No damages from the attacks were reported from elsewhere on the Crimean Peninsula. Crimea was seized by Russia from Ukraine in 2014. Russian forces launched a major military offensive into Ukraine, which included significant advances into Ukrainian territory. The offensive was characterized by intense fighting, and many civilians were displaced from their homes. The war in Eastern Europe is entering a significant phase with Ukraine's spring offensive. With this, there are significant stakes for war. According to preliminary information, there were no injuries reported following Ukraine's drone strikes on Crimea. Telegram channel Baza, which has connections to Russian law enforcement, claimed the incident to be a series of strikes on Crimea earlier on Sunday. Also Read | At least nine people killed in shooting at Texas mall; gunman killed by police Explosions took place in Sevastopol and Saki, where Russia has an air base. A few other places also came under attack, as per Ukrainian Telegram channels. Watch | World at War: How is Russia's Wagner Group sending weapons into Sudan? × The last two weeks have seen an increase in attacks against Russian-controlled locations, particularly in Crimea. Without denying any involvement in the strikes, Ukraine claims that destroying infrastructure is a prelude to its upcoming ground offensive. For months, the war's most severe combat has been taking place in the battle for Bakhmut. Russia views this as a crucial battlefield to advance to other cities in eastern Ukraine's Donbas area. Thousands of lives have reportedly been lost on both sides during this battle. Despite being driven back in recent weeks, Ukrainian forces were still able to maintain some degree of control over the region while dealing as much damage as they could to both regular Russian soldiers and soldiers from the Wagner mercenary group. The Wagner group, which has led the charge in the conflict to seize Bakhmut, has declared it will leave the area on 10th May. Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of Wagner Group, stated in a statement on Friday that the retreat was because of a shortage of ammunition supply. Chechen leader and a staunch ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ramzan Kadyrov, said his forces are ready to replace Wagner Group mercenaries in Bakhmut. Kadyrov is a former militia leader who fought against Russian forces during the First Chechen War in the 1990s. However, he later switched sides and became a loyal supporter of the Russian government when he abandoned Chechnya's separatist movement. (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 You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine strikes Crimean peninsula with over 10 drones in overnight attack

<p>The mounting tensions between Russia and Ukraine took an ugly turn on Thursday. A video has surfaced on social media in which a Ukrainian MP, Oleksandr Marikovskyi, was seen punching an unidentified Russian representative who snagged the Ukrainian flag from his hands during a conference in Turkey’s capital Ankara.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident is from the 61st General Assembly of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (PABSEC) where countries of the Black Sea region gathered to discuss ways to develop multilateral and bilateral ties on the economic, technological, and social fronts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jason Jay Smart, a special correspondent for the Kyiv Post and a political adviser, posted the video on Twitter. As soon as it was uploaded, the video went viral and gained more than 3 million views as of Friday morning.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A Russian representative tears the Ukrainian flag during an event of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Community.<br />
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Ukrainian MP punches him back.<br />
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(Video source: Kyiv Post correspondent) <a href="https://t.co/Lzw8V7IX3l">pic.twitter.com/Lzw8V7IX3l</a></p>
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<p>The video was also posted by Marikovskyi on his Facebook account, and later Newsweek also reported on the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He really deserved that punch. Delegate from #Russia sparks scuffle at Black Sea Economic Community event in #Ankara, #Turkey, after forcibly taking the flag of #Ukraine from MP Marikovskyi's hands," tweeted advocate Ibrahim Zeidan.</p>

<p>In the video, the unnamed Russian representative can be seen approaching Marikovskyi, who was holding his country’s flag. The Russian delegate took the flag from Marikovskyi’s hands, who then responded by pushing and punching the representative in the face to take the flag back.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>Mounting tension between Russia- Ukraine after Kremlin drone attack</b></p>

<p>The incident took place at a time when tensions between the countries are at an all-time high. Recently, the drone attack on Kremlin, which Russia is blaming on Ukraine as an assassination attempt on Vladimir Putin, has made the entire world nervous. The year-long war between Russia and Ukraine has now spread to major cities such as Kyiv, Kherson, Odesa, and Bakhmut.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-defends-grab-em-by-the-py-remark-during-civil-rape-trial-589043">Donald Trump defends ‘Grab ‘em by the p***y’ remark during civil rape trial</a></p>

<p>Moscow on Thursday accused the US of assisting and plotting a drone attack with Ukraine on Kremlin, a charge denied by Washington. The US also said that Ukrainian sabotage on Russian territory had reached “unprecedented momentum.”</p>

<p>Moscow said Putin was inside the Kremlin when the attack took place, which it said was Ukraine’s attempt to kill him. "Decisions on such attacks are not made in Kyiv, but in Washington," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.</p>

<p>Ukraine has denied responsibility, with President Volodymyr Zelensky saying "We do not attack Moscow or Putin."</p>

<p>Since the attack, Russian President Vladimir Putin has been shifted to a bunker at his residence in Novo-Ogaryovo near Moscow, Kremlin’s spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told news agency RIA Novosti.&nbsp;</p>

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The mounting tensions between Russia and Ukraine took an ugly turn on Thursday. A video has surfaced on social media in which a Ukrainian MP, Oleksandr Marikovskyi, was seen punching an unidentified Russian representative who snagged the Ukrainian flag from his hands during a conference in Turkey’s capital Ankara.

The mounting tensions between Russia and Ukraine took an ugly turn on Thursday. A video has surfaced on social media in which a Ukrainian MP, Oleksandr Marikovskyi, was seen punching an unidentified Russian representative who snagged the Ukrainian flag from his hands during a conference in Turkey’s capital Ankara. The incident is from the 61st General Assembly of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (PABSEC) where countries of the Black Sea region gathered to discuss ways to develop multilateral and bilateral ties on the economic, technological, and social fronts. Jason Jay Smart, a special correspondent for the Kyiv Post and a political adviser, posted the video on Twitter. As soon as it was uploaded, the video went viral and gained more than 3 million views as of Friday morning. A Russian representative tears the Ukrainian flag during an event of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Community. Ukrainian MP punches him back. (Video source: Kyiv Post correspondent) pic.twitter.com/Lzw8V7IX3l — WION (@WIONews) May 5, 2023 × The video was also posted by Marikovskyi on his Facebook account, and later Newsweek also reported on the incident. "He really deserved that punch. Delegate from #Russia sparks scuffle at Black Sea Economic Community event in #Ankara, #Turkey, after forcibly taking the flag of #Ukraine from MP Marikovskyi's hands," tweeted advocate Ibrahim Zeidan. In the video, the unnamed Russian representative can be seen approaching Marikovskyi, who was holding his country’s flag. The Russian delegate took the flag from Marikovskyi’s hands, who then responded by pushing and punching the representative in the face to take the flag back. Mounting tension between Russia- Ukraine after Kremlin drone attack The incident took place at a time when tensions between the countries are at an all-time high. Recently, the drone attack on Kremlin, which Russia is blaming on Ukraine as an assassination attempt on Vladimir Putin, has made the entire world nervous. The year-long war between Russia and Ukraine has now spread to major cities such as Kyiv, Kherson, Odesa, and Bakhmut. Also Read | Donald Trump defends ‘Grab ‘em by the p***y’ remark during civil rape trial Moscow on Thursday accused the US of assisting and plotting a drone attack with Ukraine on Kremlin, a charge denied by Washington. The US also said that Ukrainian sabotage on Russian territory had reached “unprecedented momentum.” Moscow said Putin was inside the Kremlin when the attack took place, which it said was Ukraine’s attempt to kill him. "Decisions on such attacks are not made in Kyiv, but in Washington," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. Ukraine has denied responsibility, with President Volodymyr Zelensky saying "We do not attack Moscow or Putin." Since the attack, Russian President Vladimir Putin has been shifted to a bunker at his residence in Novo-Ogaryovo near Moscow, Kremlin’s spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told news agency RIA Novosti. 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.

WATCH | Ukrainian MP punches Russian official in Turkey. Here's what happened

<p>Russia's Wagner Group, in a major shift of tactical goalpost during ongoing Russia-Ukraine war,&nbsp;announced that it will withdraw from the Bakhmut region where the battle to overrun Ukrainian resistance is continuing with sharp intensity for nearly two months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wagner founder Yevgeny Prigozhin said in a statement on Friday that the lack of ammunition was the reason for the withdrawal.</p>

<p>"I am pulling Wagner units out of Bakhmut because in the absence of ammunition they are doomed to perish senselessly," Prigozhin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-group-will-soon-cease-to-exist-founder-tells-war-blogger-587166">Wagner group will soon cease to exist: Founder tells war blogger</a></strong></p>

<p>Wagner's positions in Bakhmut will be transferred to Russia's regular forces, Prigozhin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier on Friday, Prigozhin published a video of himself standing among, what were referred to as, bloodied 'Wagner lads'. He blamed Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu for the loss of lives Wagner Group faced in Bakhmut over past many weeks of fighting with the Ukrainian forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These are Wagner lads who died today. The blood is still fresh," Prigozhin said. "They came here as volunteers and they are dying so you can get fat in your offices."</p>

<p>The battle for strategically important Bakhmut has become a tactical flashpoint between Russia and Ukraine. The battle for Bakhmut is among the longest and bloodiest of the war, with severe losses on both the Russian and Ukrainian sides.</p>

<p>Wagner in the recent past called upon Moscow to boost ammunition supply-lines towards it.</p>

<h2><strong>Kremlin's reaction on Wagner's Bakhmut withdrawal</strong></h2>

<p>Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the Kremlin has seen Yevgeny Prigozhin's statement that announced group's removal from Bakhmut region.</p>

<p>Peskov said he had seen reports in the media, but "cannot comment on this, because it concerns the special military operation".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking of contacts between Russia and United States after purported drone attacks on the Kremlin, Peskov said "any contacts are possible" for reaching Russia's own goals, for providing Russia's interests.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Russia still fighting for control in Bakhmut</strong></p>

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<p>"Of course, contacts will continue, if necessary," Peskov added.</p>

<p>Russia claimed it foiled an attack by Ukrainian drones on the Kremlin early Wednesday, calling it an unsuccessful assassination attempt against President Vladimir Putin and promising retaliation for what it termed a “terrorist” act.</p>

<p>The Kremlin alleges that the United States&nbsp;was behind the purported drone attacks.</p>

<p>Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky denied that Ukraine was behind the purported attacks, saying: “We don't attack Putin or Moscow.”</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong><br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russia's Wagner Group, in a major shift of tactical goalpost during ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, announced that it will withdraw from the Bakhmut region where the battle to overrun Ukrainian resistance is continuing with sharp intensity for nearly two months.

Russia's Wagner Group, in a major shift of tactical goalpost during ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, announced that it will withdraw from the Bakhmut region where the battle to overrun Ukrainian resistance is continuing with sharp intensity for nearly two months. Wagner founder Yevgeny Prigozhin said in a statement on Friday that the lack of ammunition was the reason for the withdrawal. "I am pulling Wagner units out of Bakhmut because in the absence of ammunition they are doomed to perish senselessly," Prigozhin said. ALSO READ | Wagner group will soon cease to exist: Founder tells war blogger Wagner's positions in Bakhmut will be transferred to Russia's regular forces, Prigozhin said. Earlier on Friday, Prigozhin published a video of himself standing among, what were referred to as, bloodied 'Wagner lads'. He blamed Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu for the loss of lives Wagner Group faced in Bakhmut over past many weeks of fighting with the Ukrainian forces. "These are Wagner lads who died today. The blood is still fresh," Prigozhin said. "They came here as volunteers and they are dying so you can get fat in your offices." The battle for strategically important Bakhmut has become a tactical flashpoint between Russia and Ukraine. The battle for Bakhmut is among the longest and bloodiest of the war, with severe losses on both the Russian and Ukrainian sides. Wagner in the recent past called upon Moscow to boost ammunition supply-lines towards it. Kremlin's reaction on Wagner's Bakhmut withdrawal Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the Kremlin has seen Yevgeny Prigozhin's statement that announced group's removal from Bakhmut region. Peskov said he had seen reports in the media, but "cannot comment on this, because it concerns the special military operation". Speaking of contacts between Russia and United States after purported drone attacks on the Kremlin, Peskov said "any contacts are possible" for reaching Russia's own goals, for providing Russia's interests. ALSO WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia still fighting for control in Bakhmut × "Of course, contacts will continue, if necessary," Peskov added. Russia claimed it foiled an attack by Ukrainian drones on the Kremlin early Wednesday, calling it an unsuccessful assassination attempt against President Vladimir Putin and promising retaliation for what it termed a “terrorist” act. The Kremlin alleges that the United States was behind the purported drone attacks. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky denied that Ukraine was behind the purported attacks, saying: “We don't attack Putin or Moscow.” 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. (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.

‘Doomed to perish’: Russia’s Wagner announces withdrawal from Bakhmut, cites lack of ammo

Ukraine President Zelensky has denied that his country carried out alleged 'Drone attack' which Russia says was an attempt to kill Russian President Putin.

Russia alleges US planned Kremlin attack, Ukraine carries it

<p>Media baron Rupert Murdoch reportedly had a phone call with Ukraine President &nbsp;Volodymyr Zelensky weeks before firing Fox News'&nbsp;star anchor Tucker Carlson, according to Semafor news outlet.</p>

<p>Though a clear connection between the two events cannot be established, the timing of Carlson’s unceremonious exit, who has been critical of Zelensky, after the phone call has raised eyebrows.</p>

<p>Murdoch’s son and heir apparent, Fox Corp. CEO Lachlan Murdoch, also spoke with the Ukrainian president on March 15, the outlet reported.</p>

<p>The outlet quoting senior Ukrainian officials reported that Zelensky did not raise Carlson’s critical coverage of the Ukraine war during his phone conversation with the Murdochs, even though the government had expressed objections with the Fox executives in the past.</p>

<p>According to the report, both Rupert and Lachlan talked with Zelensky about the war in Ukraine and the deaths of two Fox News journalists in Ukraine last March.</p>

<p>Last week, Fox fired the controversial prime-time host Tucker Carlson without providing any reason. It was speculated that Carlson was sacked by the channel’s owner, Rupert Murdoch for, among other things, using vulgar language to describe a female executive.</p>

<p>The development came a week after Fox News agreed to pay voting equipment company Dominion $787.5m to settle a high-profile defamation lawsuit.</p>

<h2><strong>Tucker Carlson's exit costs FOX $690 million</strong></h2>

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<p>In an official statement, Fox News&nbsp;did not disclose the reason, saying that both Carlson and the network had “mutually” agreed to separate.</p>

<p>On Monday, Carlson’s slot was immediately replaced with a rotating roster of hosts until a permanent replacement can be found, the network said. In his video on Wednesday, Carlson implied his fans had not seen the last of him.</p>

<p>“Where can you still find Americans saying true things?” he said. “There aren’t many places left but there are some and that’s enough. As long as you can hear the words, there is hope. See you soon.”</p>

<p><strong>Carlson’s alleged bias 'while covering Ukraine war</strong></p>

<p>Since the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Carlson was seen extensively criticising Zelenky’s administration.</p>

<p>On an episode of "Tucker Carlson Tonight" last month, Carlson argued that "leaked intelligence" showed "Ukraine is in fact losing the war" and claimed "seven Ukrainians are being killed for every Russian."</p>

<p>The leaked documents he cited actually suggest Russian troops have seen over twice as many casualties as Ukrainian troops.</p>

<p>According to a Washington Post report, during a Fox newsroom meeting, Rupert Murdoch"loudly" challenged Carlson about one of his segments on the Ukraine war.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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Media baron Rupert Murdoch reportedly had a phone call with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky weeks before firing Fox News' star anchor Tucker Carlson, according to Semafor news outlet.

Media baron Rupert Murdoch reportedly had a phone call with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky weeks before firing Fox News' star anchor Tucker Carlson, according to Semafor news outlet. Though a clear connection between the two events cannot be established, the timing of Carlson’s unceremonious exit, who has been critical of Zelensky, after the phone call has raised eyebrows. Murdoch’s son and heir apparent, Fox Corp. CEO Lachlan Murdoch, also spoke with the Ukrainian president on March 15, the outlet reported. The outlet quoting senior Ukrainian officials reported that Zelensky did not raise Carlson’s critical coverage of the Ukraine war during his phone conversation with the Murdochs, even though the government had expressed objections with the Fox executives in the past. According to the report, both Rupert and Lachlan talked with Zelensky about the war in Ukraine and the deaths of two Fox News journalists in Ukraine last March. Last week, Fox fired the controversial prime-time host Tucker Carlson without providing any reason. It was speculated that Carlson was sacked by the channel’s owner, Rupert Murdoch for, among other things, using vulgar language to describe a female executive. The development came a week after Fox News agreed to pay voting equipment company Dominion $787.5m to settle a high-profile defamation lawsuit. Tucker Carlson's exit costs FOX $690 million In an official statement, Fox News did not disclose the reason, saying that both Carlson and the network had “mutually” agreed to separate. On Monday, Carlson’s slot was immediately replaced with a rotating roster of hosts until a permanent replacement can be found, the network said. In his video on Wednesday, Carlson implied his fans had not seen the last of him. “Where can you still find Americans saying true things?” he said. “There aren’t many places left but there are some and that’s enough. As long as you can hear the words, there is hope. See you soon.” Carlson’s alleged bias 'while covering Ukraine war Since the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Carlson was seen extensively criticising Zelenky’s administration. On an episode of "Tucker Carlson Tonight" last month, Carlson argued that "leaked intelligence" showed "Ukraine is in fact losing the war" and claimed "seven Ukrainians are being killed for every Russian." The leaked documents he cited actually suggest Russian troops have seen over twice as many casualties as Ukrainian troops. According to a Washington Post report, during a Fox newsroom meeting, Rupert Murdoch"loudly" challenged Carlson about one of his segments on the Ukraine war. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Is Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky behind Tucker Carlson’s exit from Fox News?

<p>The chief of the Russian mercenary Wagner Group has threatened to withdraw his troops from the besieged Bakhmut city, Ukraine, if Moscow fails to address ammunition supply problems.</p>

<p>According to local media reports, Yevgeny Prigozhin told military blogger Semyon Pegov on April 29 that casualties have been mounting higher than necessary because of the lack of artillery ammunition.</p>

<p>"Every day, we have stacks of thousands of bodies that we put in coffins and send home," Prigozhin said in the interview published on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He had written to Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu asking for additional supplies.</p>

<p>"If the ammunition deficit is not replenished, we are forced, in order not to run like cowardly rats afterwards, to either withdraw or die."</p>

<p>In an audio statement published on the Telegram messaging app account of his press service on Saturday evening, Prigozhin said that 94 fighters from his group have lost their lives due to lack of ammunition.</p>

<p>“It would have been five times fewer if we had more ammunition,” he said.</p>

<p>This is the second time he has expressed his ire over the lack of support from the Russian officials.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's possible counteroffensive, holds military drills in Zaporizhzhia</strong></h2>

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<p>Prigozhin had previously claimed that the Russian military was withholding ammunition from his soldiers. He claimed that top Russian officials are committing “treason” by withholding ammunition stockpiles.</p>

<p>The mercenary group chief said that he would be forced to withdraw some of his troops if the situation persists, warning that could lead to collapse elsewhere.</p>

<p>Over the past few months, Russia has been deploying a heavy amount of troops to Bakhmut in the hope&nbsp;of capturing the city as it desperately seeks a win after a series of setbacks. The Russian troops are being assisted by the mercenary Wagner Group, which has claimed to have taken control of the majority parts of the city.</p>

<p>Russia believes that capturing Bakhmut would deal a heavy blow to the Ukrainian defences and be a step towards seizing all of the Donbas industrial region, a major target. Kyiv says the battle is&nbsp;grinding&nbsp;down Russia's best units.</p>

<h2>Ukraine in control of key Bakhmut supply route</h2>

<p>Ukrainian military on Saturday claimed that they remain in control of a key supply route into Bakhmut, but added that the situation remains "really difficult".</p>

<p>For several weeks, the Russians have been talking about seizing the 'road of life,' as well as about constant fire control over it," Serhiy Cherevatyi, a spokesperson for Ukrainian troops in the east, said in an interview with local news website Dzerkalo Tyzhnia.</p>

<p>"Yes, it is really difficult there, because their attempts to seize the road continue, as well as attempts to establish fire control. But...the defence forces have not allowed the Russians to 'cut off' our logistics."</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><br />
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The chief of the Russian mercenary Wagner Group has threatened to withdraw his troops from the besieged Bakhmut city, Ukraine, if Moscow fails to address ammunition supply problems.

The chief of the Russian mercenary Wagner Group has threatened to withdraw his troops from the besieged Bakhmut city, Ukraine, if Moscow fails to address ammunition supply problems. According to local media reports, Yevgeny Prigozhin told military blogger Semyon Pegov on April 29 that casualties have been mounting higher than necessary because of the lack of artillery ammunition. "Every day, we have stacks of thousands of bodies that we put in coffins and send home," Prigozhin said in the interview published on Saturday. He had written to Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu asking for additional supplies. "If the ammunition deficit is not replenished, we are forced, in order not to run like cowardly rats afterwards, to either withdraw or die." In an audio statement published on the Telegram messaging app account of his press service on Saturday evening, Prigozhin said that 94 fighters from his group have lost their lives due to lack of ammunition. “It would have been five times fewer if we had more ammunition,” he said. This is the second time he has expressed his ire over the lack of support from the Russian officials. Ukraine's possible counteroffensive, holds military drills in Zaporizhzhia Prigozhin had previously claimed that the Russian military was withholding ammunition from his soldiers. He claimed that top Russian officials are committing “treason” by withholding ammunition stockpiles. The mercenary group chief said that he would be forced to withdraw some of his troops if the situation persists, warning that could lead to collapse elsewhere. Over the past few months, Russia has been deploying a heavy amount of troops to Bakhmut in the hope of capturing the city as it desperately seeks a win after a series of setbacks. The Russian troops are being assisted by the mercenary Wagner Group, which has claimed to have taken control of the majority parts of the city. Russia believes that capturing Bakhmut would deal a heavy blow to the Ukrainian defences and be a step towards seizing all of the Donbas industrial region, a major target. Kyiv says the battle is grinding down Russia's best units. Ukraine in control of key Bakhmut supply route Ukrainian military on Saturday claimed that they remain in control of a key supply route into Bakhmut, but added that the situation remains "really difficult". For several weeks, the Russians have been talking about seizing the 'road of life,' as well as about constant fire control over it," Serhiy Cherevatyi, a spokesperson for Ukrainian troops in the east, said in an interview with local news website Dzerkalo Tyzhnia. "Yes, it is really difficult there, because their attempts to seize the road continue, as well as attempts to establish fire control. But...the defence forces have not allowed the Russians to 'cut off' our logistics." (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

Russian mercenary Wagner Group chief threatens to withdraw his troops from Bakhmut

Rumours that Russian President Vladimir Putin sits in a bunker and has body duplicates, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, are yet another lie. The remarks were part of a lecture Peskov gave at the Znanie youth forum marathon titled "The Lies about Russia."

Kremlin dismisses rumour that Vladimir Putin has body double and sits in a bunker

<p>Former Russian president and a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Dmitry Medvedev, said on Sunday that if the G7 decided to impose export restrictions on Russia, Moscow would retaliate by cancelling the Black Sea Grain Agreement, which permits crucial grain shipments from Ukraine.</p>

<p>"This idea from the idiots at the G7 about a total ban of exports to our country by default is beautiful in that it implies a reciprocal ban on imports from our country, including categories of goods that are the most sensitive for the G7," Medvedev said in a post on his Telegram channel.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktoks-troubling-trends-what-is-the-truth-behind-24-april-585544">TikTok's troubling trends: What is the truth behind April 24?</a></p>

<p>According to last week's report by the Japanese Kyodo news agency, which cited sources within the Japanese government, the Group of Seven (G7) nations are proposing a blanket ban on exports to Russia.</p>

<p>Russia has threatened on many occasions to withdraw from the grain agreement, which is set to expire on 18 May.&nbsp;"In such a case, the grain deal - and many other things that they need - will end for them," he added.</p>

<p>According to reports, the G7 is debating changing its sanctions policy towards Russia. It includes proposals that shipments to Russia would be automatically prohibited unless they were on a defined list of goods that were permitted for exports.</p>

<p>As per the current rules, unless specifically blacklisted, products may be sold to Russia without any restrictions. Vladimir Putin's longtime supporter Medvedev serves as Putin's deputy at the powerful Security Council and is the chairman of a government commission on arms production for the conflict in Ukraine.</p>

<p>The Black Sea grain agreement, the only important diplomatic achievement during the 14-month battle in Ukraine, has been frequently criticised by Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The G7 agriculture ministers in a communique earlier called for&nbsp;the "extension, full implementation and expansion" of the grain deal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/texas-after-prom-shooting-at-least-9-teens-wounded-no-arrest-so-far-585529">At least 9 teens injured in Texas after-prom shooting, no arrest so far</a></p>

<p>Inspection teams from Russia, Ukraine, the UN, and Turkey are required as part of the agreement to guarantee that ships are carrying only food and other agricultural supplies and no weaponry. Ukraine, on the other hand, has accused Russia of delaying inspections and stopping grain exports.</p>

<p>Ukraine is one of the world's largest producers and exporters of grain. It is worth noting that if the grain deal is scrapped it will result in tensions and trade restrictions, which could become complicated further. Any such move by Russia to scrap the agreement would likely have significant economic and political implications for not just Russia and Ukraine but for the wider region.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | US lawmakers sold banking stocks amid crisis: Report</strong></p>

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<p>Despite numerous diplomatic efforts, the Russia-Ukraine conflict has continued to escalate, with both sides accusing each other of violating agreements and engaging in hostilities. The conflict has also had wider geopolitical implications, with Russia facing international condemnation and sanctions.&nbsp;</p>

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Former Russian president and a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Dmitry Medvedev, said on Sunday that if the G7 decided to impose export restrictions on Russia, Moscow would retaliate by cancelling the Black Sea Grain Agreement, which permits crucial grain shipments from Ukraine.

Former Russian president and a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Dmitry Medvedev, said on Sunday that if the G7 decided to impose export restrictions on Russia, Moscow would retaliate by cancelling the Black Sea Grain Agreement, which permits crucial grain shipments from Ukraine. "This idea from the idiots at the G7 about a total ban of exports to our country by default is beautiful in that it implies a reciprocal ban on imports from our country, including categories of goods that are the most sensitive for the G7," Medvedev said in a post on his Telegram channel. Also Read | TikTok's troubling trends: What is the truth behind April 24? According to last week's report by the Japanese Kyodo news agency, which cited sources within the Japanese government, the Group of Seven (G7) nations are proposing a blanket ban on exports to Russia. Russia has threatened on many occasions to withdraw from the grain agreement, which is set to expire on 18 May. "In such a case, the grain deal - and many other things that they need - will end for them," he added. According to reports, the G7 is debating changing its sanctions policy towards Russia. It includes proposals that shipments to Russia would be automatically prohibited unless they were on a defined list of goods that were permitted for exports. As per the current rules, unless specifically blacklisted, products may be sold to Russia without any restrictions. Vladimir Putin's longtime supporter Medvedev serves as Putin's deputy at the powerful Security Council and is the chairman of a government commission on arms production for the conflict in Ukraine. The Black Sea grain agreement, the only important diplomatic achievement during the 14-month battle in Ukraine, has been frequently criticised by Moscow. The G7 agriculture ministers in a communique earlier called for the "extension, full implementation and expansion" of the grain deal. Also Read | At least 9 teens injured in Texas after-prom shooting, no arrest so far Inspection teams from Russia, Ukraine, the UN, and Turkey are required as part of the agreement to guarantee that ships are carrying only food and other agricultural supplies and no weaponry. Ukraine, on the other hand, has accused Russia of delaying inspections and stopping grain exports. Ukraine is one of the world's largest producers and exporters of grain. It is worth noting that if the grain deal is scrapped it will result in tensions and trade restrictions, which could become complicated further. Any such move by Russia to scrap the agreement would likely have significant economic and political implications for not just Russia and Ukraine but for the wider region. Watch | US lawmakers sold banking stocks amid crisis: Report × Despite numerous diplomatic efforts, the Russia-Ukraine conflict has continued to escalate, with both sides accusing each other of violating agreements and engaging in hostilities. The conflict has also had wider geopolitical implications, with Russia facing international condemnation and sanctions. 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.

Putin's close ally Medvedev warns of scrapping Black Sea grain deal if G7 bans exports

<p>The Group of seven wealthy countries (G7) issued a stern warning to the nations aiding Russia in the Ukraine war after the conclusion of their meeting in Japan’s Nagano prefecture, saying that they are committed to enforcing tough sanctions against Moscow.</p>

<p>Though the discussion between foreign ministers of the seven countries also found mention of Chinese and North Korean aggressiveness in Northeast Asia, the Russian invasion of Ukraine continued to dominate the three-day talks.</p>

<p>&nbsp;“There can be no impunity for war crimes and other atrocities such as Russia’s attacks against civilians and critical civilian infrastructure,” the joint communique stated.</p>

<p>“We remain committed to intensifying sanctions against Russia, coordinating and fully enforcing them,” the communique said, and would support “for as long as it takes” Ukraine as it defends itself.</p>

<p>The document or the communique acts as a template for global leaders to use at the G7 summit that will be held in Hiroshima next month. It also mentions Iran, Myanmar, nuclear proliferation and other “grave issues.”</p>

<p>Two crises were discussed in detail in the meeting. China's increasing threats to Taiwan—the self-governing democracy that Beijing claims as its own—and Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>G7 Meet: Focus on Russia-Ukraine war and its consequences for Asia</strong></h2>

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<p>The G7 ministers from Japan, the US, the UK, France, Germany, Canada, Italy and the European Union have underlined that their meeting in Karuizawa marks&nbsp;a crucial moment in the world's response to both crises, which are seen as challenges to the post-World War II rules-based international order.</p>

<p>The West has repeatedly raised concerns about the possibility of Russia using nuclear weapons in Ukraine, as it faces a defiant Ukrainian force.</p>

<p>Their efforts to make Russia accountable in global forums, like the UN Security Council, have been stymied by China and Moscow.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-180-dead-in-sudan-violence-as-army-chief-declares-a-powerful-paramilitary-force-rebels-583458">Sudan unrest claims 200 lives, EU envoy 'assaulted' in capital Khartoum</a></p>

<p>The G-7 ministers said that peace and stability between China and Taiwan is “an indispensable element in security and prosperity in the international community," and they called for "the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues.”</p>

<p>Though increasingly isolated by the West, Russia has found support from China, Iran and Belarus. There have been reports that these countries have been supplying weapons to Moscow for their war against Ukraine.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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The Group of seven wealthy countries (G7) issued a stern warning to the nations aiding Russia in the Ukraine war after the conclusion of their meeting in Japan’s Nagano prefecture, saying that they are committed to enforcing tough sanctions against Moscow.

The Group of seven wealthy countries (G7) issued a stern warning to the nations aiding Russia in the Ukraine war after the conclusion of their meeting in Japan’s Nagano prefecture, saying that they are committed to enforcing tough sanctions against Moscow. Though the discussion between foreign ministers of the seven countries also found mention of Chinese and North Korean aggressiveness in Northeast Asia, the Russian invasion of Ukraine continued to dominate the three-day talks. “There can be no impunity for war crimes and other atrocities such as Russia’s attacks against civilians and critical civilian infrastructure,” the joint communique stated. “We remain committed to intensifying sanctions against Russia, coordinating and fully enforcing them,” the communique said, and would support “for as long as it takes” Ukraine as it defends itself. The document or the communique acts as a template for global leaders to use at the G7 summit that will be held in Hiroshima next month. It also mentions Iran, Myanmar, nuclear proliferation and other “grave issues.” Two crises were discussed in detail in the meeting. China's increasing threats to Taiwan—the self-governing democracy that Beijing claims as its own—and Russia's invasion of Ukraine. G7 Meet: Focus on Russia-Ukraine war and its consequences for Asia The G7 ministers from Japan, the US, the UK, France, Germany, Canada, Italy and the European Union have underlined that their meeting in Karuizawa marks a crucial moment in the world's response to both crises, which are seen as challenges to the post-World War II rules-based international order. The West has repeatedly raised concerns about the possibility of Russia using nuclear weapons in Ukraine, as it faces a defiant Ukrainian force. Their efforts to make Russia accountable in global forums, like the UN Security Council, have been stymied by China and Moscow. Also read | Sudan unrest claims 200 lives, EU envoy 'assaulted' in capital Khartoum The G-7 ministers said that peace and stability between China and Taiwan is “an indispensable element in security and prosperity in the international community," and they called for "the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues.” Though increasingly isolated by the West, Russia has found support from China, Iran and Belarus. There have been reports that these countries have been supplying weapons to Moscow for their war against Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

G7 countries issue stern warning to those aiding Russia in Ukraine war

<p>Ukraine officials said that its army is repelling “unrelenting” attacks from Russian forces in the eastern Bakhmut city as one of the most brutal battles since the invasion plays out.</p>

<p>Ukrainian Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Malyar posted on Telegram that heavy fighting has swarmed all parts of the eastern front, adding that pro-Kyiv forces are stalling their advances in most areas.</p>

<p>“Most of the enemy’s offensive efforts are occurring in the Bakhmut sector,” she wrote, adding that Russian commanders had redirected troops there from other areas, reports Reuters news agency.</p>

<p>“The enemy is using its most professional units there and resorting to a significant amount of artillery and aviation. Every day, the enemy carries out in Bakhmut from 40 to 50 storming operations and 500 shelling episodes.”</p>

<p>For Russia, Bakhmut is a key region to seize as it desperately tries to score a victory in this protracted battle.</p>

<p>Though it doesn’t hold any strategic value, Kremlin believes that capturing Bakhmut will provide a stepping stone to advance on two bigger cities it has long coveted in the Donetsk region—Kramatorsk and Sloviansk.</p>

<p>Russian troops have been battling since last summer to capture the town, which had a pre-war population of 70,000.</p>

<h2><strong>Kyiv denies Wagner Bakhmut claim, Russia says forces advancing</strong></h2>

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<p>Both warring countries are believed to have suffered huge losses in the battle, despite analysts saying the city has little strategic value.</p>

<p>The Russian army said its airborne troops were "blocking the transfer of Ukrainian army reserves to the city and the possibility of retreat for enemy units." It also added that Wagner mercenary group is advancing in the city.</p>

<p>Wagner assault units were continuing high-intensity combat operations to oust the enemy from the central quarters” of the city in eastern Ukraine, the statement said according to AFP news agency.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-documents-leak-air-national-guardsman-jack-teixeira-arrested-582262">US documents leak case: Air National guardsman Jack Teixeira arrested</a></p>

<p>This week, the chief of the mercenary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, claimed that his forces held 80 per cent of Bakhmut, but the Ukrainian military called it an “exaggerated” figure.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/norway-kicks-out-14-russian-officials-from-embassy-says-they-were-spies-582086">Norway expels 15 Russian officials at embassy in Oslo on suspicion of spying</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, President Volodymyr Zelensky is pressing allies for more weapons to help Kyiv enable it to launch a major counter-offensive later this year.</p>

<p>“We are readying our boys. We look forward to the delivery of weapons promised by our partners. We are bringing victory closer as much as possible,” Zelensky said in a video address late on Thursday.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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Ukraine officials said that its army is repelling “unrelenting” attacks from Russian forces in the eastern Bakhmut city as one of the most brutal battles since the invasion plays out.

Ukraine officials said that its army is repelling “unrelenting” attacks from Russian forces in the eastern Bakhmut city as one of the most brutal battles since the invasion plays out. Ukrainian Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Malyar posted on Telegram that heavy fighting has swarmed all parts of the eastern front, adding that pro-Kyiv forces are stalling their advances in most areas. “Most of the enemy’s offensive efforts are occurring in the Bakhmut sector,” she wrote, adding that Russian commanders had redirected troops there from other areas, reports Reuters news agency. “The enemy is using its most professional units there and resorting to a significant amount of artillery and aviation. Every day, the enemy carries out in Bakhmut from 40 to 50 storming operations and 500 shelling episodes.” For Russia, Bakhmut is a key region to seize as it desperately tries to score a victory in this protracted battle. Though it doesn’t hold any strategic value, Kremlin believes that capturing Bakhmut will provide a stepping stone to advance on two bigger cities it has long coveted in the Donetsk region—Kramatorsk and Sloviansk. Russian troops have been battling since last summer to capture the town, which had a pre-war population of 70,000. Kyiv denies Wagner Bakhmut claim, Russia says forces advancing Both warring countries are believed to have suffered huge losses in the battle, despite analysts saying the city has little strategic value. The Russian army said its airborne troops were "blocking the transfer of Ukrainian army reserves to the city and the possibility of retreat for enemy units." It also added that Wagner mercenary group is advancing in the city. Wagner assault units were continuing high-intensity combat operations to oust the enemy from the central quarters” of the city in eastern Ukraine, the statement said according to AFP news agency. Also read | US documents leak case: Air National guardsman Jack Teixeira arrested This week, the chief of the mercenary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, claimed that his forces held 80 per cent of Bakhmut, but the Ukrainian military called it an “exaggerated” figure. Also read | Norway expels 15 Russian officials at embassy in Oslo on suspicion of spying Meanwhile, President Volodymyr Zelensky is pressing allies for more weapons to help Kyiv enable it to launch a major counter-offensive later this year. “We are readying our boys. We look forward to the delivery of weapons promised by our partners. We are bringing victory closer as much as possible,” Zelensky said in a video address late on Thursday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine says repelling ‘unrelenting’ Russian attacks as it holds on to Bakhmut

<p>Ukraine’s first deputy foreign affairs minister Emine Dzhaparova will make a four-day visit to India starting Monday (April 9), making it the first official visit of a minister from Kyiv since the start of the Russian invasion.</p>

<p>The visit will focus on bilateral relations, exchanging views on the current situation in Ukraine, and global issues of mutual interest, officials said.</p>

<p>Dzhaparova is also expected to meet Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Meenakshi Lekhi, and Deputy National Security Adviser, Vikram Misri.</p>

<p>The Hindu newspaper reported that the Ukrainian minister is expected&nbsp;to invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Kyiv&nbsp;and suggest New Delhi to invite President Volodymyr Zelensky to the G20 Summit in September.</p>

<p>“India shares warm and friendly relations and multifaceted cooperation with Ukraine. Over the last 30 years of establishing diplomatic relations, bilateral cooperation between the two countries has made significant progress in the areas of trade, education, culture and defence. The visit will be an occasion to further mutual understanding and interests," India’s Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia threatens to pull the trigger on Black Sea grain deal</strong></h2>

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<p>Additionally, the minister will also request more humanitarian aid, including pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and energy equipment to repair power infrastructure damaged during the war, the newspaper reported.</p>

<p>The report further states that the Urainian minister, a former journalist, will call on India to send a "strong message for peace" to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is due to visit India in July for Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit and is due back in September for G20 summit.</p>

<p>So far, India has taken a neutral stance in the Russia-Ukraine war, and has repeatedly urged both parties to shun violence and get back to the discussion table.</p>

<p>India has also abstained on all resolutions passed against Russia in the various UN bodies, including at the UN General Assembly. The latest one was passed by the UN human rights council on April 4 which extended the mandate of the commission of inquiry into alleged war crimes by Russia for a year.</p>

<p>Despite facing pressures from US and the West to follow its sanction model, India has remained steadfast in its foreign policy, and has refused to join either faction, the latter being the Russia-China axis.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
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Ukraine’s first deputy foreign affairs minister Emine Dzhaparova will make a four-day visit to India starting Monday (April 9), making it the first official visit of a minister from Kyiv since the start of the Russian invasion.

Ukraine’s first deputy foreign affairs minister Emine Dzhaparova will make a four-day visit to India starting Monday (April 9), making it the first official visit of a minister from Kyiv since the start of the Russian invasion. The visit will focus on bilateral relations, exchanging views on the current situation in Ukraine, and global issues of mutual interest, officials said. Dzhaparova is also expected to meet Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Meenakshi Lekhi, and Deputy National Security Adviser, Vikram Misri. The Hindu newspaper reported that the Ukrainian minister is expected to invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Kyiv and suggest New Delhi to invite President Volodymyr Zelensky to the G20 Summit in September. “India shares warm and friendly relations and multifaceted cooperation with Ukraine. Over the last 30 years of establishing diplomatic relations, bilateral cooperation between the two countries has made significant progress in the areas of trade, education, culture and defence. The visit will be an occasion to further mutual understanding and interests," India’s Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. Russia threatens to pull the trigger on Black Sea grain deal Additionally, the minister will also request more humanitarian aid, including pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and energy equipment to repair power infrastructure damaged during the war, the newspaper reported. The report further states that the Urainian minister, a former journalist, will call on India to send a "strong message for peace" to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is due to visit India in July for Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit and is due back in September for G20 summit. So far, India has taken a neutral stance in the Russia-Ukraine war, and has repeatedly urged both parties to shun violence and get back to the discussion table. India has also abstained on all resolutions passed against Russia in the various UN bodies, including at the UN General Assembly. The latest one was passed by the UN human rights council on April 4 which extended the mandate of the commission of inquiry into alleged war crimes by Russia for a year. Despite facing pressures from US and the West to follow its sanction model, India has remained steadfast in its foreign policy, and has refused to join either faction, the latter being the Russia-China axis. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukrainian minister to arrive Monday on first India visit since Russian invasion; seek G20 invite for Zelensky

<p>Several classified documents containing “secret details” of US and NATO plans for bolstering the Ukrainian forces for impending Russian offensive were leaked online, The New York Times (NYT) has reported.</p>

<p>The documents, which are currently circulating on Twitter and Telegram, have caused serious concern about breach of security and prompted the Biden administration to launch a probe into the matter.</p>

<p>Twitter and Telegram are the two dominant social media platforms used prolifically in Ukraine and Russia.</p>

<p>“We are aware of the reports of social media posts and the department is reviewing the matter,” Sabrina Singh, the deputy press secretary at the Pentagon told the Times.</p>

<p>However, experts noted that the leak documents, which seems authentic, may very well be a hoax to distract the Russian forces in order to gain an upper hand in the disinformation game.</p>

<h2><strong>How fuels from Russian oil are getting backdoor entry into Europe via India</strong></h2>

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<p>According to the NYT report, the leaked documents have no information regarding battle plans and do not reveal how and when Ukraine intends to launch its offensive.</p>

<p>However, they do point towards an impending attack by the Russian military in the next month or so, as the documents are five weeks old, the report said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">LEAKED DOD DOCS: These documents closely resemble the leaks reportedly containing top secret US/NATO intelligence and planning of a Ukrainian offensive. The Biden administration is reportedly working to have them "deleted" from social media. <a href="https://t.co/c8sZFdtbpp">https://t.co/c8sZFdtbpp</a> <a href="https://t.co/bJFb5Zh9UE">pic.twitter.com/bJFb5Zh9UE</a></p>
— Alex Rubinstein (@RealAlexRubi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealAlexRubi/status/1644221448482082816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The other information in these documents is about the training schedules of 12 Ukraine combat brigades, and they say&nbsp;that nine of them were being trained by US and NATO forces.</p>

<p>The documents also say&nbsp;that 250 tanks and more than 350 mechanised vehicles are needed to ward off the Russian forces, the newspaper reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosions-heard-in-gaza-palestine-says-strikes-hit-hamas-training-sites-579951">Israel launches air strikes on Gaza Strip after vowing to retaliate over Lebanon rocket salvo</a></p>

<p>The documents—at least one of which carried a ‘top secret’ label —were circulated on pro-Russian government channels, it said.</p>

<p>The documents also detail expenditure rates for munitions under Ukraine military control, including for the HIMARS rocket systems, the US-made artillery rocket systems that have proven highly effective against Russian forces, it added.</p>

<p>It is not yet known how the documents were leaked online, but pro-Russian government channels have been sharing and circulating the briefing slides, military analysts told NYT.</p>

<p>The analysts warned that documents released by Russian sources could be selectively altered to present the Kremlin’s disinformation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
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Several classified documents containing “secret details” of US and NATO plans for bolstering the Ukrainian forces for impending Russian offensive were leaked online, The New York Times (NYT) has reported.

Several classified documents containing “secret details” of US and NATO plans for bolstering the Ukrainian forces for impending Russian offensive were leaked online, The New York Times (NYT) has reported. The documents, which are currently circulating on Twitter and Telegram, have caused serious concern about breach of security and prompted the Biden administration to launch a probe into the matter. Twitter and Telegram are the two dominant social media platforms used prolifically in Ukraine and Russia. “We are aware of the reports of social media posts and the department is reviewing the matter,” Sabrina Singh, the deputy press secretary at the Pentagon told the Times. However, experts noted that the leak documents, which seems authentic, may very well be a hoax to distract the Russian forces in order to gain an upper hand in the disinformation game. How fuels from Russian oil are getting backdoor entry into Europe via India According to the NYT report, the leaked documents have no information regarding battle plans and do not reveal how and when Ukraine intends to launch its offensive. However, they do point towards an impending attack by the Russian military in the next month or so, as the documents are five weeks old, the report said. LEAKED DOD DOCS: These documents closely resemble the leaks reportedly containing top secret US/NATO intelligence and planning of a Ukrainian offensive. The Biden administration is reportedly working to have them "deleted" from social media. https://t.co/c8sZFdtbpp pic.twitter.com/bJFb5Zh9UE — Alex Rubinstein (@RealAlexRubi) April 7, 2023 × The other information in these documents is about the training schedules of 12 Ukraine combat brigades, and they say that nine of them were being trained by US and NATO forces. The documents also say that 250 tanks and more than 350 mechanised vehicles are needed to ward off the Russian forces, the newspaper reported. Also read | Israel launches air strikes on Gaza Strip after vowing to retaliate over Lebanon rocket salvo The documents—at least one of which carried a ‘top secret’ label —were circulated on pro-Russian government channels, it said. The documents also detail expenditure rates for munitions under Ukraine military control, including for the HIMARS rocket systems, the US-made artillery rocket systems that have proven highly effective against Russian forces, it added. It is not yet known how the documents were leaked online, but pro-Russian government channels have been sharing and circulating the briefing slides, military analysts told NYT. The analysts warned that documents released by Russian sources could be selectively altered to present the Kremlin’s disinformation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Secret documents’ of US and NATO plans to help Ukraine beat Russia leaked online

<p>Russia defended its UNSC presidency on Monday amid a barrage of criticism from different countries. Russia will preside over the UN Security Council for April. Many countries, including Ukraine, showed their concern over Russia’s presidency during a time when Russia and Ukraine are at war with each other. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Defending its stance, Russia insisted that it will not abuse its position to defend its invasion of Ukraine. “We do not abuse the prerogatives of the presidency”, said the Russian ambassador to the United Nations, Vassily Nebenzia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“One thing is the national position. The second thing is the role of the presidency of the Security Council,” he said at a press conference marking Russia’s assumption of the rotating position.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-rare-case-saudi-arabia-executes-man-during-the-holy-month-of-ramadan-578902">In a rare case, Saudi Arabia executes man during the holy month of Ramadan</a></p>

<p>The situation provoked stinging criticism from Ukraine, which called it a “slap in the face to the international community” and from its allies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“As you know, Russia is assuming its seat as president of the Security Council. Started on April 1. It’s like an April Fool’s joke,” said Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US ambassador.</p>

<p>“But the truth of the matter is, it’s a rotating seat. We expect that they will behave professionally,” she said.</p>

<p>“But we also expect that they will use their seat to spread disinformation and to promote their agenda as it relates to Ukraine, and we will stand ready to call them out at every single moment that they attempt to do that,” the ambassador added.</p>

<p>Ukraine and the West have for months been denouncing Russian ‘propaganda’ over its invasion of Ukraine in February last year.</p>

<p>Watch |&nbsp;<strong>Ukraine decries 'symbolic blow' as Russia assumes UNSC Presidency</strong></p>

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<p>Nebenzia said such criticism was in the “vein of the Western narrative” and in turn accused Kyiv’s allies of spreading disinformation in particular about “the situation of Ukrainian children who were allegedly kidnapped from Ukraine and brought to Russia against their will”.</p>

<p>The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant against Russian President Vladimir Putin on charges of war crimes for the illegal deportation of Ukrainian children during the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian ambassador replied and called the warrant ‘stupid’ and ‘illegitimate’. And not just that he is also organising an informal meeting at the UN on Wednesday to address the issue. As the permanent member of the UNSC, Russia has the power to convene emergency meetings whenever it wants them.</p>

<p>Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is due to chair one of the UNSC meetings on selected topics, on April 24 on ‘the defence of the principles of the UN charter’.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russia defended its UNSC presidency on Monday amid a barrage of criticism from different countries. Russia will preside over the UN Security Council for April. Many countries, including Ukraine, showed their concern over Russia’s presidency during a time when Russia and Ukraine are at war with each other.

Russia defended its UNSC presidency on Monday amid a barrage of criticism from different countries. Russia will preside over the UN Security Council for April. Many countries, including Ukraine, showed their concern over Russia’s presidency during a time when Russia and Ukraine are at war with each other. Defending its stance, Russia insisted that it will not abuse its position to defend its invasion of Ukraine. “We do not abuse the prerogatives of the presidency”, said the Russian ambassador to the United Nations, Vassily Nebenzia. “One thing is the national position. The second thing is the role of the presidency of the Security Council,” he said at a press conference marking Russia’s assumption of the rotating position. Also Read | In a rare case, Saudi Arabia executes man during the holy month of Ramadan The situation provoked stinging criticism from Ukraine, which called it a “slap in the face to the international community” and from its allies. “As you know, Russia is assuming its seat as president of the Security Council. Started on April 1. It’s like an April Fool’s joke,” said Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US ambassador. “But the truth of the matter is, it’s a rotating seat. We expect that they will behave professionally,” she said. “But we also expect that they will use their seat to spread disinformation and to promote their agenda as it relates to Ukraine, and we will stand ready to call them out at every single moment that they attempt to do that,” the ambassador added. Ukraine and the West have for months been denouncing Russian ‘propaganda’ over its invasion of Ukraine in February last year. Watch | Ukraine decries 'symbolic blow' as Russia assumes UNSC Presidency × Nebenzia said such criticism was in the “vein of the Western narrative” and in turn accused Kyiv’s allies of spreading disinformation in particular about “the situation of Ukrainian children who were allegedly kidnapped from Ukraine and brought to Russia against their will”. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant against Russian President Vladimir Putin on charges of war crimes for the illegal deportation of Ukrainian children during the war. The Russian ambassador replied and called the warrant ‘stupid’ and ‘illegitimate’. And not just that he is also organising an informal meeting at the UN on Wednesday to address the issue. As the permanent member of the UNSC, Russia has the power to convene emergency meetings whenever it wants them. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is due to chair one of the UNSC meetings on selected topics, on April 24 on ‘the defence of the principles of the UN charter’. (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 defends its UNSC presidency, says won't abuse the position

A top Ukrainian official criticised the 'symbolic blow' of Russia assuming the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council. On Saturday, Russia assumed the rotating presidency of the UN's top security committee.

Ukraine decries 'symbolic blow' as Russia assumes UNSC Presidency

<p>A Ukrainian court has ordered house arrest for a Kyiv-based church cleric who is said to have ties with Russia.</p>

<p>A court in Kyiv on Saturday pronounced the order after finding Metropolitan Pavel guilty of glorifying Russian invasion and stoking religious divisions.</p>

<p>Pavel is the abbot of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery—said to be Ukraine’s most revered Orthodox site. His branch of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) was previously loyal to Moscow clergy.</p>

<p>Following the court’s ruling, Pavel was made to wear an electronic bracelet near his ankle, despite his objections that he has diabetes. The house arrest will last two months.</p>

<p>“I am accepting this,” he said shortly before the bracelet was attached. “Christ was crucified on the cross, so why shouldn’t I accept this?”, reports AP news agency.</p>

<p>Russia’s TASS state news agency said the court ordered Pavel to live in a village some 40km (25 miles) southeast of Kyiv.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine calls Russia's UNSC Presidency as 'the worst joke ever'</strong></h2>

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<p>It comes as Kyiv has been clamping down on the UOC for its alleged pro-Russian stance and ties with Moscow—a charge the church denies. Earlier this week, Pavel had cursed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, threatening him with damnation.</p>

<p>Since the start of 2022, the Ukrainian government has opened criminal cases against 61 UOC clergy, with seven found guilty.</p>

<p>Moreover, the agencies have raided numerous holy sites of the church and allegedly found roubles, Russian passports and leaflets with messages from the Moscow patriarch as proof that some church officials have been loyal to Russia.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/slovakia-accused-of-violating-international-obligations-in-russian-weapons-transfer-578107">Slovakia accused of violating international obligations in Russian weapons’ transfer to Ukraine</a></p>

<p>Many Orthodox communities in Ukraine have cut their ties with the UOC and transitioned to the rival Orthodox Church of Ukraine after receiving recognition from the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople more than four years ago.</p>

<p>Even though the UOC has insisted that it’s loyal to Ukraine and has denounced the Russian invasion, Ukrainian security agencies believe that some in the church have maintained close ties with Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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A Ukrainian court has ordered house arrest for a Kyiv-based church cleric who is said to have ties with Russia. A court in Kyiv on Saturday pronounced the order after finding Metropolitan Pavel guilty of glorifying Russian invasion and stoking religious divisions.

A Ukrainian court has ordered house arrest for a Kyiv-based church cleric who is said to have ties with Russia. A court in Kyiv on Saturday pronounced the order after finding Metropolitan Pavel guilty of glorifying Russian invasion and stoking religious divisions. Pavel is the abbot of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery—said to be Ukraine’s most revered Orthodox site. His branch of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) was previously loyal to Moscow clergy. Following the court’s ruling, Pavel was made to wear an electronic bracelet near his ankle, despite his objections that he has diabetes. The house arrest will last two months. “I am accepting this,” he said shortly before the bracelet was attached. “Christ was crucified on the cross, so why shouldn’t I accept this?”, reports AP news agency. Russia’s TASS state news agency said the court ordered Pavel to live in a village some 40km (25 miles) southeast of Kyiv. Ukraine calls Russia's UNSC Presidency as 'the worst joke ever' It comes as Kyiv has been clamping down on the UOC for its alleged pro-Russian stance and ties with Moscow—a charge the church denies. Earlier this week, Pavel had cursed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, threatening him with damnation. Since the start of 2022, the Ukrainian government has opened criminal cases against 61 UOC clergy, with seven found guilty. Moreover, the agencies have raided numerous holy sites of the church and allegedly found roubles, Russian passports and leaflets with messages from the Moscow patriarch as proof that some church officials have been loyal to Russia. Also read | Slovakia accused of violating international obligations in Russian weapons’ transfer to Ukraine Many Orthodox communities in Ukraine have cut their ties with the UOC and transitioned to the rival Orthodox Church of Ukraine after receiving recognition from the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople more than four years ago. Even though the UOC has insisted that it’s loyal to Ukraine and has denounced the Russian invasion, Ukrainian security agencies believe that some in the church have maintained close ties with Moscow. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukrainian court puts Orthodox Church cleric with alleged Russia ties under house arrest

Amid a raging war in Ukraine-Russia has assumed the UNSC Presidency. Despite Ukraine's complaints the United States said that it could not block Russia which is a permanent council member from assuming the presidency. According to TASS news agency, Moscow plans to hold several debates especially the ones on arms control.

Ukraine calls Russia's UNSC Presidency as 'the worst joke ever'

Romania’s navy led multinational military drills in the Black Sea region brought together US and NATO troops as the 30-nation alliance looks to boost security on its southeastern flank amid Russia’s war in Ukraine.

NATO’s Marine forces in action: US, South Korea stage largest ambitious landing

<p>The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Tuesday issued recommendations for the gradual return of Russian and Belarusian athletes to international competition. Olympic chiefs, as per AFP, recommended their return as individual neutrals but refrained from giving a timeline on their potential participation at next year's Paris Olympics. As per Reuters, the IOC Executive Board will take a decision regarding the Paris Olympics at a later date. IOC president Thomas Bach said that the board had recommended to international federations and sports event organisers that "athletes with a Russian or a Belarusian passport must compete only as Individual Neutral Athletes," with no flag or anthem.</p>

<p>Bach said that politics could not be part of sports competitions and that athletes should not be punished for their passports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;IOC hopes that British Government "respect autonomy of sport" over Russia stance</strong></p>

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<p>The IOC recommendations include only neutral entries, along with a ban on participation in team events. Additionally, athletes must have a proven drug testing record. Furthermore, sports persons&nbsp;who support the Ukraine war or are contracted to their countries' military or national security agencies are to be excluded.</p>

<p>Talking about the Paris Olympics decision, Bach said: "The IOC will take this decision at the appropriate time at its full discretion, without being bound by results of previous Olympic qualifiers." He did not specify a time frame.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ukraine-allies-slam-ioc-say-not-a-single-reason-to-lift-olympics-ban-on-athletes-from-russia-and-belarus-576414">Ukraine allies slam IOC, say 'not a single reason' to lift olympics ban on athletes from Russia and Belarus</a></strong></p>

<p>Ukraine welcomed the decision to "postpone" the decision regarding Russian and Belarusian athletes' participation in the 2024 Paris Olympics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Russian Olympic Committee chief, Stanislav Pozdnyakov, labelled the recommendations "absolutely unacceptable."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-olympics-ioc-to-have-last-word-on-russian-inclusion-says-organising-committee-head-tony-estanguet-572041">Paris Olympics: IOC to have 'last word' on Russian inclusion, says organising committee head Tony Estanguet</a></strong></p>

<p>Many other countries reacted angrily. Czech&nbsp;Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky said Russia had no place in the Olympics, and that he was "disappointed by the IOC recommendations."</p>

<p>Ukraine's neighbour Poland called it a "day of shame" for the Olympic body.&nbsp;Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Piotr Wawrzyk took to Twitter to ask "What happened that was so positive from the Russian side that their athletes should take part in competitions!!."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Tuesday issued recommendations for the gradual return of Russian and Belarusian athletes to international competition.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Tuesday issued recommendations for the gradual return of Russian and Belarusian athletes to international competition. Olympic chiefs, as per AFP, recommended their return as individual neutrals but refrained from giving a timeline on their potential participation at next year's Paris Olympics. As per Reuters, the IOC Executive Board will take a decision regarding the Paris Olympics at a later date. IOC president Thomas Bach said that the board had recommended to international federations and sports event organisers that "athletes with a Russian or a Belarusian passport must compete only as Individual Neutral Athletes," with no flag or anthem. Bach said that politics could not be part of sports competitions and that athletes should not be punished for their passports. Watch | IOC hopes that British Government "respect autonomy of sport" over Russia stance The IOC recommendations include only neutral entries, along with a ban on participation in team events. Additionally, athletes must have a proven drug testing record. Furthermore, sports persons who support the Ukraine war or are contracted to their countries' military or national security agencies are to be excluded. Talking about the Paris Olympics decision, Bach said: "The IOC will take this decision at the appropriate time at its full discretion, without being bound by results of previous Olympic qualifiers." He did not specify a time frame. Also read | Ukraine allies slam IOC, say 'not a single reason' to lift olympics ban on athletes from Russia and Belarus Ukraine welcomed the decision to "postpone" the decision regarding Russian and Belarusian athletes' participation in the 2024 Paris Olympics. However, Russian Olympic Committee chief, Stanislav Pozdnyakov, labelled the recommendations "absolutely unacceptable." Also read | Paris Olympics: IOC to have 'last word' on Russian inclusion, says organising committee head Tony Estanguet Many other countries reacted angrily. Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky said Russia had no place in the Olympics, and that he was "disappointed by the IOC recommendations." Ukraine's neighbour Poland called it a "day of shame" for the Olympic body. Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Piotr Wawrzyk took to Twitter to ask "What happened that was so positive from the Russian side that their athletes should take part in competitions!!." (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.

IOC backs Russian, Belarusian athletes return as 'neutral' entries to events; no decision on Paris Olympics

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