Microsoft said that it will fire up to 10,000 employees by the third quarter of&nbsp; fiscal 2023. A helicopter crash near a kindergarten outside Kyiv has reportedly killed 18 people, including three children, the police said.&nbsp;Ukraine's interior minister, his deputy and another official&nbsp;were among those killed. In Afghanistan, the Taliban cut off hands of four men convicted of theft and flogged nine on charges of sodomy in front of spectators at a football stadium in Kandahar.&nbsp;Meanwhile, a number of Chinese suppliers of Apple Inc. received initial clearance by Indian government to expand in the country, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the matter.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/microsoft-to-start-laying-off-employees-from-today-report-553642">Microsoft to fire 10,000 people as tech layoffs intensify</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/18/326308-2balkqimvvob7novsei4unezri.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Joining the layoffs spree, US tech giant Microsoft Corp on Wednesday announced that it would cut 10,000 jobs by the end of the third quarter of fiscal 2023. The layoffs will result in a charge of $1.2 billion in the second quarter of fiscal 2023, representing a negative impact of 12 cents on per share profit, it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/helicopter-crashes-near-a-kindergarten-building-outside-kyiv-casualties-feared-553727">Ukraine’s interior minister among 18 killed in chopper crash, Germany offers help in probe</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/18/326521-germa.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

A helicopter crash near a kindergarten outside Kyiv has reportedly killed 18 people, including three children, the police said.&nbsp;Ukraine's interior minister, his deputy and another official&nbsp;were among those killed.&nbsp;Twenty two people, including 10 children, have been hospitalised.

Unverified footage circulating on social media showed what appeared to be the charred remains of the aircraft. Debris from nearby buildings and a car crushed by large shards of metal can also be seen.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-cut-off-hands-of-four-publicly-flog-nine-for-theft-in-front-of-spectators-553905">Taliban cut off hands of four, publicly flog nine for theft in front of spectators</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/18/326530-taliban.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

The Taliban cut off hands of four men convicted of theft and flogged nine on charges of sodomy in front of spectators at a football stadium in Kandahar.&nbsp;

According to Tolo News, the suspects were punished on Tuesday in Ahmad Shahi Stadium. Local authorities and Kandahar residents were in attendance when the lashing took place.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-to-bring-chinese-suppliers-to-boost-production-in-india-553837">Apple to bring Chinese suppliers to boost production in India</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/18/326476-untitled-design-40.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

A number of Chinese suppliers of Apple Inc. received initial clearance by Indian government to expand in the country, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the matter. The Chinese suppliers, however, will require to find local Indian joint venture partners as per manufacturing rules put in place by New Delhi. While India is reportedly approving multiple Chinese suppliers, many were rejected, the report said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/two-drinks-per-week-dry-january-canadas-new-recommendation-for-alcohol-consumption-553862">Two drinks per week, dry January: Canada's new recommendation for alcohol consumption</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/18/326494-untitled-design-2023-01-18t183728459.png?imwidth=1920" />

Canada has updated its alcohol consumption guidelines for the year 2023 and according to new guidelines, it should be Dry January all year round in the country as it is the only risk-free approach. According to the government-backed guidance, if you want to drink at all then two drinks maximum each week is deemed to be low-risk.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-oil-demand-to-reach-an-all-time-high-this-year-as-china-re-opens-iea-553899">Global oil demand to reach an all-time high this year as China re-opens, says IEA</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/18/326528-wion-images-53.png?imwidth=1920" />

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the global oil demand is set to reach an all-time high in 2023 as the Chinese economy re-opens after ending its stringent zero-Covid policy. However, the Paris-based watchdog in its report published on Wednesday (January 18) also noted that the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and the Western sanctions on Moscow imposed, as a result, could affect the supply.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/as-inflation-soars-in-uk-britons-see-real-time-value-of-their-wages-plummet-biggest-fall-since-2009-553746">As inflation soars in UK, Britons see real-time value of their wages plummet; biggest fall since 2009</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/18/326404-new-wion-39.png?imwidth=1920" />The sheer weight of inflation that Britons are facing has been made clear by the latest figures. Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that even as inflation reached double digits, wages are lagging far behind.&nbsp;As per a Daily Mail report, even though earnings have risen at near-record rates, in real terms wages have plummeted in the three months to November.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macaus-gambling-kingpin-alvin-chau-sentenced-to-18-years-in-prison-553923">Macau's gambling kingpin Alvin Chau sentenced to 18 years in prison</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/18/326544-alvin-chau.png?imwidth=1920" />Alvin Chau- Macau's gambling kingpin- was on Wednesday (January 18) sentenced to 18 years in prison for running an illegal gambling empire. Chau, 48, the chairman of the Suncity Group, was responsible for pioneering the junket industry which brought high rollers from mainland China to Macau. He was the chairman (of the group) until December 2021, a month after his arrest. A report by the news agency AFP on Wednesday said that prosecutors charged Chau with 289 counts of fraud, money laundering and illegal gambling. Judge Lou Ieng Ha found the 48-year-old guilty of fraud, running a criminal syndicate and operating illegal bets. However, she acquitted him on the charge of money laundering.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wrestlers-open-can-of-worms-into-the-working-of-federation-allege-sexual-harassment-and-corruption-553870">Indian wrestlers open 'can of worms' into the working of federation, allege sexual harassment and corruption</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/18/326492-copy-of-untitled-7.png?imwidth=1920" />Big ticket Indian wrestlers on Wednesday opened a can of worms into the workings of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik accused the federation President Brij Bhushan Sharan Sharma of sexual harassment while Bajrang Punia alleged the office holders to be knee-deep in corruption.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/exclusive-suniel-shetty-interview-my-children-have-grown-up-im-now-playing-my-age-553719">Exclusive | Suniel Shetty interview: My children have grown up. I’m now playing my age</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/18/326361-horizons.png?imwidth=1920" />Suniel Shetty is back and how! After entertaining the audiences with some iconic roles in action, romance and comedy genres, Bollywood star Suniel Shetty made his impending OTT debut with 2022 web show ‘Dharavi Bank’ as Thalaivan, the kingpin of one of the world’s largest slums, Dharavi. In an exclusive conversation with WION, Bollywood’s ‘Anna’ Suniel Shetty spoke about his comeback after taking a break from films, conscious decision of playing roles that suit his age and love for grey shaded characters that have a soul of their own.&nbsp;

Microsoft said that it will fire up to 10,000 employees by the third quarter of fiscal 2023. A helicopter crash near a kindergarten outside Kyiv has reportedly killed 18 people, including three children, the police said.

Microsoft said that it will fire up to 10,000 employees by the third quarter of fiscal 2023. A helicopter crash near a kindergarten outside Kyiv has reportedly killed 18 people, including three children, the police said. Ukraine's interior minister, his deputy and another official were among those killed. In Afghanistan, the Taliban cut off hands of four men convicted of theft and flogged nine on charges of sodomy in front of spectators at a football stadium in Kandahar. Meanwhile, a number of Chinese suppliers of Apple Inc. received initial clearance by Indian government to expand in the country, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the matter. Click on the headlines to read more: Microsoft to fire 10,000 people as tech layoffs intensify Joining the layoffs spree, US tech giant Microsoft Corp on Wednesday announced that it would cut 10,000 jobs by the end of the third quarter of fiscal 2023. The layoffs will result in a charge of $1.2 billion in the second quarter of fiscal 2023, representing a negative impact of 12 cents on per share profit, it said. Ukraine’s interior minister among 18 killed in chopper crash, Germany offers help in probe A helicopter crash near a kindergarten outside Kyiv has reportedly killed 18 people, including three children, the police said. Ukraine's interior minister, his deputy and another official were among those killed. Twenty two people, including 10 children, have been hospitalised. Unverified footage circulating on social media showed what appeared to be the charred remains of the aircraft. Debris from nearby buildings and a car crushed by large shards of metal can also be seen. Taliban cut off hands of four, publicly flog nine for theft in front of spectators The Taliban cut off hands of four men convicted of theft and flogged nine on charges of sodomy in front of spectators at a football stadium in Kandahar. According to Tolo News, the suspects were punished on Tuesday in Ahmad Shahi Stadium. Local authorities and Kandahar residents were in attendance when the lashing took place. Apple to bring Chinese suppliers to boost production in India A number of Chinese suppliers of Apple Inc. received initial clearance by Indian government to expand in the country, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the matter. The Chinese suppliers, however, will require to find local Indian joint venture partners as per manufacturing rules put in place by New Delhi. While India is reportedly approving multiple Chinese suppliers, many were rejected, the report said. Two drinks per week, dry January: Canada's new recommendation for alcohol consumption Canada has updated its alcohol consumption guidelines for the year 2023 and according to new guidelines, it should be Dry January all year round in the country as it is the only risk-free approach. According to the government-backed guidance, if you want to drink at all then two drinks maximum each week is deemed to be low-risk. Global oil demand to reach an all-time high this year as China re-opens, says IEA According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the global oil demand is set to reach an all-time high in 2023 as the Chinese economy re-opens after ending its stringent zero-Covid policy. However, the Paris-based watchdog in its report published on Wednesday (January 18) also noted that the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and the Western sanctions on Moscow imposed, as a result, could affect the supply. As inflation soars in UK, Britons see real-time value of their wages plummet; biggest fall since 2009 The sheer weight of inflation that Britons are facing has been made clear by the latest figures. Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that even as inflation reached double digits, wages are lagging far behind. As per a Daily Mail report, even though earnings have risen at near-record rates, in real terms wages have plummeted in the three months to November. Macau's gambling kingpin Alvin Chau sentenced to 18 years in prison Alvin Chau- Macau's gambling kingpin- was on Wednesday (January 18) sentenced to 18 years in prison for running an illegal gambling empire. Chau, 48, the chairman of the Suncity Group, was responsible for pioneering the junket industry which brought high rollers from mainland China to Macau. He was the chairman (of the group) until December 2021, a month after his arrest. A report by the news agency AFP on Wednesday said that prosecutors charged Chau with 289 counts of fraud, money laundering and illegal gambling. Judge Lou Ieng Ha found the 48-year-old guilty of fraud, running a criminal syndicate and operating illegal bets. However, she acquitted him on the charge of money laundering. Indian wrestlers open 'can of worms' into the working of federation, allege sexual harassment and corruption Big ticket Indian wrestlers on Wednesday opened a can of worms into the workings of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik accused the federation President Brij Bhushan Sharan Sharma of sexual harassment while Bajrang Punia alleged the office holders to be knee-deep in corruption. Exclusive | Suniel Shetty interview: My children have grown up. I’m now playing my age Suniel Shetty is back and how! After entertaining the audiences with some iconic roles in action, romance and comedy genres, Bollywood star Suniel Shetty made his impending OTT debut with 2022 web show ‘Dharavi Bank’ as Thalaivan, the kingpin of one of the world’s largest slums, Dharavi. In an exclusive conversation with WION, Bollywood’s ‘Anna’ Suniel Shetty spoke about his comeback after taking a break from films, conscious decision of playing roles that suit his age and love for grey shaded characters that have a soul of their own.

Top 10 world news: Microsoft to fire 10,000 people, Ukraine's deadly chopper crash, and more

In the wake of setbacks faced in the ongoing war against Ukraine, Russia has decided to make “major changes” to its military structure. Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu&nbsp;informed that the proposed changes to its armed forces will take place from 2023 to 2026.&nbsp;

The reforms proposed by the defence ministry include boosting the combat capabilities of its naval, aerospace and strategic missile forces, apart from major changes to the administrative system.&nbsp;

"Only by strengthening the key structural components of the armed forces is it possible to guarantee the military security of the state and protect new entities and critical facilities of the Russian Federation," Shoigu was quoted as saying on Tuesday, reports Reuters news agency.&nbsp;

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the proposed reforms were necessitated due to the "proxy war" being conducted by the West in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Peskov&nbsp;made the remarks in connection with the West pledging to send heavy weaponry to Ukraine to help resist the Russian forces.&nbsp;

In December, the Russian defence ministry had vowed to bolster its military forces to 1.5 million, after facing scathing criticism domestically for the ineffectiveness to take control of large tracts of Ukraine.&nbsp;

<h2>Member of Russia's private military seeks asylum in Norway</h2>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/member-of-russias-private-military-seeks-asylum-in-norway-553376/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Ever since it began its invasion of Ukraine, Russia has been on a recruitment drive to join more people to its military.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-group-commander-seeks-asylum-in-norway-claiming-war-crimes-by-the-outfit-553452">Wagner group commander seeks asylum in Norway claiming war crimes by the outfit</a>

It has been hiring Afghan special forces, soldiers, and bribing foreigners with fast-tracked Russian citizenship in exchange for joining the Russian army. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-praises-wagner-forces-ukraine-denies-moscows-claim-of-soledar-liberation-552470">Russia praises Wagner forces, Ukraine denies Moscow's claim of Soledar 'liberation'</a>

Apart from that, Kremlin has also sought help from the mercenary force Wagner Group as it seeks to capture more territories in Ukraine.&nbsp;

In September, Putin signed into law to conscript citizens with unexpunged or outstanding convictions for murder, robbery, larceny, drug trafficking and other serious crimes under the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation to be called up for&nbsp;military service.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE: 

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

In the wake of setbacks faced in the ongoing war against Ukraine, Russia has decided to make “major changes” to its military structure. Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu informed that the proposed changes to its armed forces will take place from 2023 to 2026.

In the wake of setbacks faced in the ongoing war against Ukraine, Russia has decided to make “major changes” to its military structure. Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu informed that the proposed changes to its armed forces will take place from 2023 to 2026. The reforms proposed by the defence ministry include boosting the combat capabilities of its naval, aerospace and strategic missile forces, apart from major changes to the administrative system. "Only by strengthening the key structural components of the armed forces is it possible to guarantee the military security of the state and protect new entities and critical facilities of the Russian Federation," Shoigu was quoted as saying on Tuesday, reports Reuters news agency. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the proposed reforms were necessitated due to the "proxy war" being conducted by the West in Ukraine. Peskov made the remarks in connection with the West pledging to send heavy weaponry to Ukraine to help resist the Russian forces. In December, the Russian defence ministry had vowed to bolster its military forces to 1.5 million, after facing scathing criticism domestically for the ineffectiveness to take control of large tracts of Ukraine. Member of Russia's private military seeks asylum in Norway Ever since it began its invasion of Ukraine, Russia has been on a recruitment drive to join more people to its military. Also read | Wagner group commander seeks asylum in Norway claiming war crimes by the outfit It has been hiring Afghan special forces, soldiers, and bribing foreigners with fast-tracked Russian citizenship in exchange for joining the Russian army. Also read | Russia praises Wagner forces, Ukraine denies Moscow's claim of Soledar 'liberation' Apart from that, Kremlin has also sought help from the mercenary force Wagner Group as it seeks to capture more territories in Ukraine. In September, Putin signed into law to conscript citizens with unexpunged or outstanding convictions for murder, robbery, larceny, drug trafficking and other serious crimes under the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation to be called up for military service. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia proposes 'major changes’ to boost capabilities of armed forces  

Ukrainian&nbsp;president’s advisor Oleksiy Arestovych&nbsp;on Tuesday resigned following an uproar over his remarks in which he suggested that the Russian missile that struck an apartment in Dnipro killing more than 40 civilians was shot down by Ukraine.&nbsp;

Arestovych announced his resignation on Facebook saying that he made a “fundamental error”.&nbsp;

"I offer my sincere apologies to the victims and their relatives, the residents of Dnipro and everyone who was deeply hurt by my prematurely erroneous version of the reason for the Russian missile striking a residential building,” Arestovych wrote.&nbsp;

After his remarks, the Ukrainian Air Force had to clarify that the apartment building was hit by a Russian Kh-22 missile, which&nbsp;Kyiv&nbsp;does not have the equipment to shoot down.&nbsp;

His remarks were exploited by Russian officials to blame Ukraine for the Dnipro disaster. While back at home,&nbsp;Arestovych&nbsp;was severely criticised.&nbsp;

Arestovych is one of the most public Ukrainian faces of the war. He uses his YouTube channel to hold daily discussions on issues related to the conflict. &nbsp;

The channel has more than 1.6 million subscribers, and his videos often have more than 200,000 views. &nbsp;

<h2>Russia and Belarus hold joint military drill</h2>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-and-belarus-hold-joint-military-drill-553302/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Saturday, during his official presser, Arestovych seemed to suggest that the Ukrainian air defences could have been responsible by shooting&nbsp;down the Russian missile that struck the building, resulting in casualties

The comment caused furore with Dnipro Mayor Filatov urging that Ukrainian intelligence to discredit Arestovych's claim, while Ukrainian parliament deputy Oleksiy Goncharenko presented a collection of signatures demanding his resignation.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-proposes-major-changes-to-boost-capabilities-of-armed-forces-553552">Russia proposes 'major changes’ to boost capabilities of armed forces &nbsp;</a>

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is yet to respond to this fiasco.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, 22 people are still missing in Dnipro city, as the official toll increased to 44.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-group-commander-seeks-asylum-in-norway-claiming-war-crimes-by-the-outfit-553452">Wagner group commander seeks asylum in Norway claiming war crimes by the outfit</a>&nbsp;

"Twenty-two people are currently being sought," the state emergency services said, according to AFP news agency.&nbsp;

Emergency services said municipal workers had removed more than 9,000 tonnes of construction debris and 41 damaged cars since the rescue work began on Saturday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE: 

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Ukrainian president’s advisor Oleksiy Arestovych on Tuesday resigned following an uproar over his remarks in which he suggested that the Russian missile that struck an apartment in Dnipro killing more than 40 civilians was shot down by Ukraine.

Ukrainian president’s advisor Oleksiy Arestovych on Tuesday resigned following an uproar over his remarks in which he suggested that the Russian missile that struck an apartment in Dnipro killing more than 40 civilians was shot down by Ukraine. Arestovych announced his resignation on Facebook saying that he made a “fundamental error”. "I offer my sincere apologies to the victims and their relatives, the residents of Dnipro and everyone who was deeply hurt by my prematurely erroneous version of the reason for the Russian missile striking a residential building,” Arestovych wrote. After his remarks, the Ukrainian Air Force had to clarify that the apartment building was hit by a Russian Kh-22 missile, which Kyiv does not have the equipment to shoot down. His remarks were exploited by Russian officials to blame Ukraine for the Dnipro disaster. While back at home, Arestovych was severely criticised. Arestovych is one of the most public Ukrainian faces of the war. He uses his YouTube channel to hold daily discussions on issues related to the conflict. The channel has more than 1.6 million subscribers, and his videos often have more than 200,000 views. Russia and Belarus hold joint military drill On Saturday, during his official presser, Arestovych seemed to suggest that the Ukrainian air defences could have been responsible by shooting down the Russian missile that struck the building, resulting in casualties The comment caused furore with Dnipro Mayor Filatov urging that Ukrainian intelligence to discredit Arestovych's claim, while Ukrainian parliament deputy Oleksiy Goncharenko presented a collection of signatures demanding his resignation. Also read | Russia proposes 'major changes’ to boost capabilities of armed forces Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is yet to respond to this fiasco. Meanwhile, 22 people are still missing in Dnipro city, as the official toll increased to 44. Also read | Wagner group commander seeks asylum in Norway claiming war crimes by the outfit "Twenty-two people are currently being sought," the state emergency services said, according to AFP news agency. Emergency services said municipal workers had removed more than 9,000 tonnes of construction debris and 41 damaged cars since the rescue work began on Saturday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Zelensky’s advisor quits following goof-up over remarks that Ukraine was responsible for Dnipro disaster 

At least seven people were killed after a hand grenade accidentally went off in a Russian region bordering Ukraine, Interfax news agency reported on Tuesday.

The emergency services said that a search is still on to locate four more missing people.

"Four dead have been found among the missing. The number of victims has increased to seven people," the emergency services told Interfax.

According to reports, the incident took place on the weakened in the southern Belgorod region.

It was reported that a sergeant "unintentionally" detonated a hand grenade inside a dormitory at a location for military personnel, Interfax said, citing emergency services.

The ammunition blast triggered a massive fire, killing three servicemen and injuring 16 others, including the one who accidentally detonated.

Reports from the Telegram channel Baza, which is close to Russian security services, said that all the victims of the blast were being mobilised to fight the Ukrainian forces.

In late September, President Vladimir Putin had announced the mobilisation of 300,000 troops to bolster Russian personnel in Ukraine following a series of setbacks on the ground.

Earlier this month, Putin indicated that Russia would increase its spending on the military in the next two years, signalling that he is preparing for a prolonged and costly war with Ukraine.

He said that the conflict could turn into a “long-term process”, and added the Russia has no intention of drawing back from its goals of regime change in Ukraine.

“The partial mobilisation that was carried out revealed certain problems, as everyone well knows, which should be promptly addressed,” he said.

“I ask the ministry of defence to be attentive to all civilian initiatives, including taking into account criticism and responding correctly, in a timely manner.”

Calling Russian troops as “heroes”, Putin said that half of the 300,000 mobilised soldiers were currently stationed away from the battlefield.

“This is a sufficient reserve for conducting the special military operation,” Putin said.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE: 

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At least seven people were killed after a hand grenade accidentally went off in a Russian region bordering Ukraine, Interfax news agency reported on Tuesday. The emergency services said that a search is still on to locate four more missing people.

At least seven people were killed after a hand grenade accidentally went off in a Russian region bordering Ukraine, Interfax news agency reported on Tuesday. The emergency services said that a search is still on to locate four more missing people. "Four dead have been found among the missing. The number of victims has increased to seven people," the emergency services told Interfax. According to reports, the incident took place on the weakened in the southern Belgorod region. It was reported that a sergeant "unintentionally" detonated a hand grenade inside a dormitory at a location for military personnel, Interfax said, citing emergency services. The ammunition blast triggered a massive fire, killing three servicemen and injuring 16 others, including the one who accidentally detonated. Reports from the Telegram channel Baza, which is close to Russian security services, said that all the victims of the blast were being mobilised to fight the Ukrainian forces. In late September, President Vladimir Putin had announced the mobilisation of 300,000 troops to bolster Russian personnel in Ukraine following a series of setbacks on the ground. Earlier this month, Putin indicated that Russia would increase its spending on the military in the next two years, signalling that he is preparing for a prolonged and costly war with Ukraine. He said that the conflict could turn into a “long-term process”, and added the Russia has no intention of drawing back from its goals of regime change in Ukraine. “The partial mobilisation that was carried out revealed certain problems, as everyone well knows, which should be promptly addressed,” he said. “I ask the ministry of defence to be attentive to all civilian initiatives, including taking into account criticism and responding correctly, in a timely manner.” Calling Russian troops as “heroes”, Putin said that half of the 300,000 mobilised soldiers were currently stationed away from the battlefield. “This is a sufficient reserve for conducting the special military operation,” Putin said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Seven Russians killed after grenade accidentally goes off near Ukrainian border

Large areas of eastern Ukraine were experiencing electricity cuts, Ukrainian officials said, across regions after attack by Russian troops. Watch further to know more.

Ukraine witness emergency blackouts after Russian strikes

Russia said its forces had wrested control of the war-scarred town of Soledar in east Ukraine. Kyiv has denied the Moscow's claim and said that severe fighting was on in the nearly completely destroyed town that is now the epicentre of the war.

Ukraine denies to Russia's claim, says severe fighting in Soledar

Amid the COVID-19 crisis, China has hit out at the World Health Organization for saying that the country has not been transparent about reporting COVID-19 deaths. On the other hand, President Vladimir Putin, in light of the Russia-Ukraine war, publicly humiliated his deputy Prime Minister Denis Maturov during their first official virtual meeting of 2023 on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Furthermore, Black Lives Matter (BLM) co-founder Patrisse Cullors lost a cousin to police brutality to police brutality that 'included' being repeatedly tasered and restrained.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Authorities in Peru have preemptively closed the airport in the tourist hub of Cusco in the light of weeks-long protests that have left dozens dead across the country.

Click on headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/china-slams-who-for-calling-it-out-on-lack-of-covid-19-data-552123">China slams WHO for calling it out on lack of COVID-19 data</a>

<img alt="China slams WHO" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c0d7bb88-c13c-4c09-b773-e72e8895aaea" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/325172-untitled-design-2023-01-13t092634801.jpg" />

A spokesperson of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Thursday that Beijing has held close communication with WHO, holding five technical exchanges over the past month with the latest one on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Spokesperson Wang Wenbin told reporters that the two sides have discussed current clinical treatment, epidemic development, monitoring and vaccination.&nbsp;

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/peru-tourist-hub-airport-closed-amid-nationwide-protests-552116">Peru: Tourist hub airport closed amid nationwide protests</a>

<img alt="Peru protests" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc67360c-ea90-418b-ab2a-be79238c140f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/324335-000336r6wd.jpg" />

In Peru, supporters of ousted president Pedro Castillo are demanding the removal of the current leader Dina Boluarte. They&nbsp;marched on the streets of cities across the country with demands of fresh elections.

The demonstrations have at times turned violent, and clashes with security forces have left 42 people dead, including a police officer who was burnt alive in a vehicle, while hundreds more have been injured.

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/furious-putin-scolds-deputy-pm-manturov-over-failure-to-procure-contracts-from-russian-airlines-552127">Furious Putin scolds deputy PM Manturov over failure to procure contracts from Russian airlines</a>

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President Putin accused Manturov, the minister for trade and industry, of fooling around instead of acquiring new aircraft for the nation. RIA Novosti news agency has released the deputy PM's humiliation tape.&nbsp;

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/black-man-a-cousin-of-black-lives-matter-co-founder-suffers-cardiac-arrest-dies-after-being-tasered-by-lapd-552113">A cousin of Black Lives Matter co-founder suffers cardiac arrest, dies after being tasered by LAPD</a>

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Keenan Anderson, 31, was a teacher and a father and died at a hospital in Santa Monica. Body camera footage of the January 3 incident released by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) shows Anderson being held down by the officers as he begs for help.&nbsp;

"They're trying to George Floyd me!" he can be heard saying in the video. Notably, Floyd's case made headlines worldwide when he was murdered by a policeman in May 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

WATCH| UAE agrees to roll over Pakistan debt, give additional $1 billion

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&nbsp;

Amid the COVID-19 crisis, China has hit out at the World Health Organization for saying that the country has not been transparent about reporting COVID-19 deaths.

Amid the COVID-19 crisis, China has hit out at the World Health Organization for saying that the country has not been transparent about reporting COVID-19 deaths. On the other hand, President Vladimir Putin, in light of the Russia-Ukraine war, publicly humiliated his deputy Prime Minister Denis Maturov during their first official virtual meeting of 2023 on Wednesday. Furthermore, Black Lives Matter (BLM) co-founder Patrisse Cullors lost a cousin to police brutality to police brutality that 'included' being repeatedly tasered and restrained. Meanwhile, Authorities in Peru have preemptively closed the airport in the tourist hub of Cusco in the light of weeks-long protests that have left dozens dead across the country. Click on headlines to read more: China slams WHO for calling it out on lack of COVID-19 data A spokesperson of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Thursday that Beijing has held close communication with WHO, holding five technical exchanges over the past month with the latest one on Wednesday. Spokesperson Wang Wenbin told reporters that the two sides have discussed current clinical treatment, epidemic development, monitoring and vaccination. Peru: Tourist hub airport closed amid nationwide protests In Peru, supporters of ousted president Pedro Castillo are demanding the removal of the current leader Dina Boluarte. They marched on the streets of cities across the country with demands of fresh elections. The demonstrations have at times turned violent, and clashes with security forces have left 42 people dead, including a police officer who was burnt alive in a vehicle, while hundreds more have been injured. Furious Putin scolds deputy PM Manturov over failure to procure contracts from Russian airlines President Putin accused Manturov, the minister for trade and industry, of fooling around instead of acquiring new aircraft for the nation. RIA Novosti news agency has released the deputy PM's humiliation tape. A cousin of Black Lives Matter co-founder suffers cardiac arrest, dies after being tasered by LAPD Keenan Anderson, 31, was a teacher and a father and died at a hospital in Santa Monica. Body camera footage of the January 3 incident released by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) shows Anderson being held down by the officers as he begs for help. "They're trying to George Floyd me!" he can be heard saying in the video. Notably, Floyd's case made headlines worldwide when he was murdered by a policeman in May 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. WATCH| UAE agrees to roll over Pakistan debt, give additional $1 billion

Morning Brief: China slams WHO for questioning COVID data, Peru witnesses nationwide riots, and more

Russia has once again replaced its military commander in Ukraine putting army chief of staff Valery Gerasimov in charge of its forces in the conflict. Watch this to know more.

Why is Russia replacing its top military commander in Ukraine again?

Russia replaces military commander in Ukraine again

Russia claims to have captured Ukraine's Soledar town. It's a claim Ukraine denies. Molly Gambhir tells you what makes Soledar a strategic town.

Gravitas: Russia claims to have captured another town in Ukraine

A Russian warship armed with weapons held exercises in the Norwegian Sea. President Vladimir Putin sent the frigate to the Atlantic Ocean armed with new-generation hypersonic cruise missiles. Watch further to know more.

Russian Warship holds drill in Norwegian sea

Ukraine's eastern salt mining town of Soledar hung in the balance as Russia's mercenary firm Wagner claimed control, but continued fighting and Kyiv's assertion earlier that its forces were holding out raised uncertainty.

Russian mercenaries claim to capture Ukraine's Soledar amid fierce fighting

Russia may have taken “full control” of Ukraine’s salt-mining eastern town of Soledar, in the Donbas region, UK’s Ministry of Defence has claimed, adding that the&nbsp;mercenary Wagner Group&nbsp;and Russian troops have made significant advances in the past four days.

Russia, however, is “unlikely to envelop the town imminently because Ukrainian forces maintain stable defensive lines in depth and control over supply routes," it added.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said there was "almost no life" in Soledar, with "no whole walls left", adding that "the whole land near Soledar is covered with the corpses of the occupiers."

Soledar, which reportedly had a population of 10,000, is near Bakhmut,&nbsp;where Ukraine is currently engaged in a bloody battle with Russian forces.

Russia has been intensifying its offensive operations in three key areas in eastern Ukraine,&nbsp;the general staff of Ukraine’s armed forces said during Tuesday morning brief.

<h2>Russian warship armed with Zircon hypersonic missiles holds drills in Norwegian Sea</h2>

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He said that Russia is concentrating its efforts on capturing all of Donetsk Oblast by targeting the eastern areas of Bakhmut, Avdiivka and Lyman.

Though the strategic significance of occupying Soledar is currently being assessed, a US official last week said that the founder of the Wagner Group's, Yevgeny Prigozhin, was keen on taking control of the large salt and gypsum mines in the area, reports BBC.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-warship-loaded-with-hypersonic-cruise-weapons-conducts-drills-in-norwegian-sea-551024">Russian warship loaded with hypersonic cruise weapons conducts drills in Norwegian Sea</a>

A senior military official from the US Department of Defense on Monday gave a similar assessment of Soledar, saying that there was a "good portion" of the town in Russian hands.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deadly-new-years-attack-russia-blames-mobile-phones-for-missile-strike-in-makiivka-that-killed-89-549226">Russia blames mobile phones for missile strike in Makiivka that killed 89</a>

The current battle has mostly been centered around Bakhmut, which has been going on for months. The US official described the most recent exchanges as "savage".

Meanwhile, two British nationals&nbsp;have gone missing&nbsp;in the region and were last seen heading to Soledar.

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Russia may have taken “full control” of Ukraine’s salt-mining eastern town of Soledar, in the Donbas region, UK’s Ministry of Defence has claimed, adding that the mercenary Wagner Group and Russian troops have made significant advances in the past four days.

Russia may have taken “full control” of Ukraine’s salt-mining eastern town of Soledar, in the Donbas region, UK’s Ministry of Defence has claimed, adding that the mercenary Wagner Group and Russian troops have made significant advances in the past four days. Russia, however, is “unlikely to envelop the town imminently because Ukrainian forces maintain stable defensive lines in depth and control over supply routes," it added. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said there was "almost no life" in Soledar, with "no whole walls left", adding that "the whole land near Soledar is covered with the corpses of the occupiers." Soledar, which reportedly had a population of 10,000, is near Bakhmut, where Ukraine is currently engaged in a bloody battle with Russian forces. Russia has been intensifying its offensive operations in three key areas in eastern Ukraine, the general staff of Ukraine’s armed forces said during Tuesday morning brief. Russian warship armed with Zircon hypersonic missiles holds drills in Norwegian Sea He said that Russia is concentrating its efforts on capturing all of Donetsk Oblast by targeting the eastern areas of Bakhmut, Avdiivka and Lyman. Though the strategic significance of occupying Soledar is currently being assessed, a US official last week said that the founder of the Wagner Group's, Yevgeny Prigozhin, was keen on taking control of the large salt and gypsum mines in the area, reports BBC. Also read | Russian warship loaded with hypersonic cruise weapons conducts drills in Norwegian Sea A senior military official from the US Department of Defense on Monday gave a similar assessment of Soledar, saying that there was a "good portion" of the town in Russian hands. Also read | Russia blames mobile phones for missile strike in Makiivka that killed 89 The current battle has mostly been centered around Bakhmut, which has been going on for months. The US official described the most recent exchanges as "savage". Meanwhile, two British nationals have gone missing in the region and were last seen heading to Soledar. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia likely in ‘control’ of Ukraine’s Soledar town, claims UK

Russia claims to have killed "more than 600 Ukrainian servicemen" in the eastern Ukrainian city of Kramatorsk as a "retaliatory strike" for the deaths of 89 soldiers who died in Makiivka.

Russia claims it killed over '600 Ukrainian servicemen' in 'retaliatory strike'

The United States on January 6 announced $3 billion in military assistance for Ukraine amid the ongoing war with Vladimir Putin-led Russia. The White House said that the package will feature Bradley armoured vehicles.

U.S. announces $3 billion in aid package for Ukraine amid war

After waging a war for more than eleven months, Russian president Vladimir Putin is suddenly concerned about festivities. He has ordered a 36-hour ceasefire on the Ukrainian front lines on account of orthodox Christmas. But Ukraine has rejected the truce after labelling it as a ploy. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Kyiv slams Moscow's orthodox Christmas ceasefire

The United States on January 6 announced $3 billion in military assistance for Ukraine amid the ongoing war with Vladimir Putin-led Russia. The White House said that the package will feature Bradley armoured vehicles. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the assistance will be detailed upon later by the Pentagon. It is also expected to include armoured personnel carriers and self-propelled howitzers, she added. ALSO READ | US authorises $800 million additional funds for Ukraine in defence bill Reports suggest that the latest US aid is the largest in a series of packages of military equipment that the Pentagon has pulled from its stockpiles to send to Ukraine. It is reportedly aimed at getting as much to the Ukrainian forces as possible during the winter months, before the beginning of spring and an expected increase in fighting post that. What are Bradley armoured vehicles? The Bradley fighting vehicle is a medium-armoured combat vehicle that can serve as a fortified troop carrier on the battlefield. It has tracks rather than wheels but is lighter and more agile than a tank. It can carry a crew of three and an additional five or six troops and is seen as a critical way to move forces safely into battle. About US aid to Ukraine A total of $50 billion in assistance to Ukraine were already directed to Ukraine by the Biden administration and the US Congress in 2022. This included humanitarian, financial, and military support, according to Germany-based Kiel Institute for the World Economy. WATCH | US-Ukraine Relations: US vows further $725 million aid to Ukraine × Earlier on Wednesday, the US had announced that it will provide Patriot Air Defense System to Ukraine. The development comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Washington to meet President Joe Biden in his first overseas trip since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in February last year. Russia in late December had said that Washington's plans to supply Patriot missile defence systems to Ukraine were a "provocation" and a further expansion of US military involvement in the Ukraine conflict. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US announces $3 billion in aid package for Ukraine, including Bradley armoured vehicles

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday dismissed the order on a ceasefire by Russian President Vladimir Putin calling it as 'hypocrisy'. Watch this video to know more.

Ukraine rejects Putin’s Christmas ceasefire, calls it 'Hypocrisy'

Ukraine rejects Russian truce order as U.S. and Germany sends combat vehicles

Kyrylo Budanov spoke from Kyiv during a televised interview released on Wednesday (January 4). When asked whether there'll be more attacks inside of Russia, the Ukrainian spy chief said attacks would be "deeper and deeper" inside the country.

Expect more strikes 'deeper and deeper' into Russia, says Ukraine’s spy chief

Turkey is pushing Russia and Ukraine to begin peace talks. This move can hope to build on recent successful diplomatic initiatives. Watch further to know more.

Turkey pushes for Russia- Ukraine peace talks

The Russian defence ministry has blamed the new year missile strike in Makiivka on the illegal use of mobile phones by the Russian soldiers. But critics are finding the "mobile story" unconvincing. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Russia blames mobile phones for a missile attack in Makiivka

No respite for Ukraine from the war nightmare on New Year's day. The country started 2023 with a fresh round of air-raid sirens and a series of drone attacks. Russian drones attacked critical infrastructure in and around Kyiv. Watch to know more.

Trending on WION | Ukraine War: Russian drones attack critical infrastructure in and around Kyiv

Russia has shifted focus back to Kherson again, while Ukraine puts up a splendid response. The U.S. has provided the most military support to Kyiv this year. Molly Gambhir asks: Is the Ukraine conflict a proxy war between Ukraine and Russia?

Gravitas: How much does U.S. Proxy war in Ukraine cost?

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has warned Ukraine to demilitarise immediately, adding that failure to do so would invite further military action.

Ukraine must remove any military threat to Russia — otherwise “the Russian army (will) solve the issue”, Lavrov said, according to Tass news agency.

He reiterated Russia’s claim that the West and Ukraine were responsible for the current conflict that began in February this year and claimed thousands of lives.

Lavrov said that the West was waging the war in Ukraine to destabilise Russia, and added that the duration of the conflict depends on how soon Kyiv and Washington were willing to hold talks.

“As for the duration of the conflict, the ball is on the side of the (Kyiv) regime and Washington that stands behind its back,” Lavrov told the state Tass news agency. “They may stop senseless resistance at any moment.”

The remarks invited a sharp retort from Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak who tweeted that “Russia needs to face the reality.”

<h2>President Putin says Russia wants to end Ukraine war, "The Sooner, The Better"</h2>

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“Neither total mobilization, nor panicky search for ammo, nor secret contracts with Iran, nor Lavrov’s threats will help,” he said.

“Ukraine will demilitarize the RF (Russian Federation) to the end, oust the invaders from all occupied territories. Wait for the finale silently…”

It comes a day after Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba told the AP news agency that his government wants a “peace” summit to discuss about the possibilities of ending the war, but remained sceptic of Russia’s participation.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-to-bans-russian-oil-exports-to-countries-that-imposed-price-cap-starting-february-decree-547160">&nbsp;Putin issues decree banning Russian crude oil exports to countries that imposed price cap</a>

He said that Ukraine wants the summit within two months with UN Secretary-General António Guterres acting as mediator.

Meanwhile, fierce fighting continued on Tuesday in the Russia-claimed Donetsk and Luhansk regions that recently have been the scene of the most intense clashes.

Ukraine’s Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said that Ukrainian forces have been succursal in thwarting Russian soldiers’ attempts to encircle Bakhmut city in the Donetsk region.

Heavy battles are also underway around the city of Kreminna in the Luhansk region.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has warned Ukraine to demilitarise immediately, adding that failure to do so would invite further military action. Ukraine must remove any military threat to Russia — otherwise “the Russian army (will) solve the issue”, Lavrov said, according to Tass news agency.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has warned Ukraine to demilitarise immediately, adding that failure to do so would invite further military action. Ukraine must remove any military threat to Russia — otherwise “the Russian army (will) solve the issue”, Lavrov said, according to Tass news agency. He reiterated Russia’s claim that the West and Ukraine were responsible for the current conflict that began in February this year and claimed thousands of lives. Lavrov said that the West was waging the war in Ukraine to destabilise Russia, and added that the duration of the conflict depends on how soon Kyiv and Washington were willing to hold talks. “As for the duration of the conflict, the ball is on the side of the (Kyiv) regime and Washington that stands behind its back,” Lavrov told the state Tass news agency. “They may stop senseless resistance at any moment.” The remarks invited a sharp retort from Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak who tweeted that “Russia needs to face the reality.” President Putin says Russia wants to end Ukraine war, "The Sooner, The Better" “Neither total mobilization, nor panicky search for ammo, nor secret contracts with Iran, nor Lavrov’s threats will help,” he said. “Ukraine will demilitarize the RF (Russian Federation) to the end, oust the invaders from all occupied territories. Wait for the finale silently…” It comes a day after Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba told the AP news agency that his government wants a “peace” summit to discuss about the possibilities of ending the war, but remained sceptic of Russia’s participation. Also read | Putin issues decree banning Russian crude oil exports to countries that imposed price cap He said that Ukraine wants the summit within two months with UN Secretary-General António Guterres acting as mediator. Meanwhile, fierce fighting continued on Tuesday in the Russia-claimed Donetsk and Luhansk regions that recently have been the scene of the most intense clashes. Ukraine’s Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said that Ukrainian forces have been succursal in thwarting Russian soldiers’ attempts to encircle Bakhmut city in the Donetsk region. Heavy battles are also underway around the city of Kreminna in the Luhansk region. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ukraine must demilitarise, or else...: Russian foreign minister Lavrov threatens

As the war in Ukraine marks its grueling 10 months, shelling in Ukraine's Kherson continues to destroy the city. Russia hit Ukraine with a barrage of missiles, leaving much of country in the dark.

Ukraine War: Heavy Russian shelling rains down on Kherson

Russian Defense claims to downed Ukrainian drone which killed three military personnel. The drone was shot down which then crashed over a military base in Russia's southwestern Saratov region. Watch further to know more.

Moscow: Blast at Russian Base kills three people

Ukrainian and Russian media outlets reported hearing blasts at Russia's Engels air base early Monday, hundreds of kilometres from the frontlines in Ukraine. However, the reports haven't been confirmed yet. The RBC-Ukraine news agency reported that two explosions took place. Russian news outlet Baza cited local residents as saying that air raid sirens followed by an explosion were heard.

An air base near Saratov, about 730 km (450 miles) southeast of Moscow, was hit on December 5 in what Russia said were Ukrainian drone attacks.&nbsp;

However, Ukraine has never publicly claimed responsibility for attacks inside Russia but has said, however, that such incidents are "karma" for Russia's invasion.

Meanwhile, Moscow bombarded several Ukrainian towns on Christmas Day even as President Vladimir Putin said that they were open to negotiations. Sunday witnessed over 10 rocket attacks on the Kupiansk district in the Kharkiv region and over 25 towns along the Kupiansk-Lyman frontline being shelled. In Zaporizhzhia, nearly 20 towns were hit, Ukraine's top military command said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-vladimir-putin-slammed-the-west-for-trying-to-tear-apart-russia-546534">Vladimir Putin slams the West for trying to 'tear apart' Russia</a>

"We are ready to negotiate with everyone involved about acceptable solutions, but that is up to them - we are not the ones refusing to negotiate, they are," Putin told Rossiya 1 state television in an interview broadcast on Sunday.

An adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hit back at Putin saying that he needs to acknowledge that it was Russia that did not want talks.

"Russia single-handedly attacked Ukraine and is killing citizens," the adviser, Mykhailo Podolyak, tweeted. "Russia doesn't want negotiations, but tries to avoid responsibility."

Zelensky once again slammed Putin for hitting power stations, leaving millions without electricity and heat amidst freezing winter conditions. He said that Russia will aim to make the rest of 2022 "dark and difficult".

"Russia has lost everything it could this year. ... I know darkness will not prevent us from leading the occupiers to new defeats. But we have to be ready for any scenario," he said in an evening video address on Christmas Day.

Christmas is traditionally not celebrated on December 25 in Ukraine. Both Kyiv and Russia mark the day on January 7. However, this year some Orthodox Ukrainians decided to celebrate the holiday on December 25. Ukrainian officials, including Zelensky and Ukraine's prime minister, issued Christmas wishes on Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Ukrainian and Russian media outlets reported hearing blasts at Russia's Engels air base early Monday, hundreds of kilometres from the frontlines in Ukraine. However, the reports haven't been confirmed yet.

Ukrainian and Russian media outlets reported hearing blasts at Russia's Engels air base early Monday, hundreds of kilometres from the frontlines in Ukraine. However, the reports haven't been confirmed yet. The RBC-Ukraine news agency reported that two explosions took place. Russian news outlet Baza cited local residents as saying that air raid sirens followed by an explosion were heard. An air base near Saratov, about 730 km (450 miles) southeast of Moscow, was hit on December 5 in what Russia said were Ukrainian drone attacks. However, Ukraine has never publicly claimed responsibility for attacks inside Russia but has said, however, that such incidents are "karma" for Russia's invasion. Meanwhile, Moscow bombarded several Ukrainian towns on Christmas Day even as President Vladimir Putin said that they were open to negotiations. Sunday witnessed over 10 rocket attacks on the Kupiansk district in the Kharkiv region and over 25 towns along the Kupiansk-Lyman frontline being shelled. In Zaporizhzhia, nearly 20 towns were hit, Ukraine's top military command said. Also Read | Vladimir Putin slams the West for trying to 'tear apart' Russia "We are ready to negotiate with everyone involved about acceptable solutions, but that is up to them - we are not the ones refusing to negotiate, they are," Putin told Rossiya 1 state television in an interview broadcast on Sunday. An adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hit back at Putin saying that he needs to acknowledge that it was Russia that did not want talks. "Russia single-handedly attacked Ukraine and is killing citizens," the adviser, Mykhailo Podolyak, tweeted. "Russia doesn't want negotiations, but tries to avoid responsibility." Zelensky once again slammed Putin for hitting power stations, leaving millions without electricity and heat amidst freezing winter conditions. He said that Russia will aim to make the rest of 2022 "dark and difficult". "Russia has lost everything it could this year. ... I know darkness will not prevent us from leading the occupiers to new defeats. But we have to be ready for any scenario," he said in an evening video address on Christmas Day. Christmas is traditionally not celebrated on December 25 in Ukraine. Both Kyiv and Russia mark the day on January 7. However, this year some Orthodox Ukrainians decided to celebrate the holiday on December 25. Ukrainian officials, including Zelensky and Ukraine's prime minister, issued Christmas wishes on Sunday. (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.

Missile hits reported from across Ukraine on Christmas Day even as Putin says he is open to talks

There are no clear winners. Both Moscow & Kyiv keep making claims & counterclaims of having the upper hand. But in the fog of war, nothing can be seen clearly. Watch this video to know more.

Russia-Ukraine war: Who is winning in the air?

Ten months into the ongoing conflict with Russia, Ukraine remains defiant. In a&nbsp;message to Ukrainian citizens, President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the country will make its own&nbsp;Christmas magic. In other news starting Sunday,&nbsp;China's top health body the National Health Commission will no longer be publishing daily data on COVID-19 cases. As the global community decried Taliban's latest order banning university education for girls, the group has reportedly resorted to using water cannons on students protesting the ban.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/a-defiant-volodymyr-zelensky-says-ukraine-will-create-its-own-christmas-magic-546390">A defiant Volodymyr Zelensky says Ukraine will create its own Christmas Magic</a>

<img alt="Volodymyr Zelensky says Ukraine will create its own Christmas Magic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="028d1a18-4bf2-496e-ace8-981d3aa56b74" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202022-12-25%20at%2010.27.46%20AM.jpeg" />

On the day that marks 10 months of Moscow's launching of the war that has killed tens and thousands and displaced millions, Zelensky said, "We endured at the beginning of the war - we withstood attacks, threats, nuclear blackmail, terror, missile strikes. We will endure this winter because we know what we are fighting for."

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/18-miners-trapped-in-a-gold-mine-in-xinjiang-rescue-operation-underway-546402">18 miners trapped in a gold mine in Xinjiang, rescue operation underway</a>

<img alt="18 miners trapped in a gold mine in Xinjiang" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b6c0c406-5165-4b18-9d06-41f37764dec2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/85355-untitled-design-24.jpg" />

As many as 18 people were trapped in an underground gold mine in China's Xinjiang region on Sunday after a cave-in was reported by local news agencies.&nbsp;

40 people were working in the mine, situated 100 kilometres from the border with Kazakhstan when the accident occurred.&nbsp;

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/watch-taliban-use-water-cannon-on-afghan-women-opposing-prohibition-on-university-education-546399">Taliban use water cannons on Afghan women opposing prohibition on university education</a>

<img alt="Taliban use water cannon on Afghan women" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6d65bbeb-cf3d-4917-a981-614e6083832d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/320748-fkcmiutx0aagy8m.jpg" />

A video of Afghan women using a lane as a shield to protect themselves from a water cannon has gone viral on social media. The Taliban have started to opt for different ways to stop women from protesting against the university education ban in Afghanistan for females.

Hundreds of Afghan women have taken to the streets to protest against the Taliban's decision. Protest marches in Afghanistan echoed with slogans like 'education is our right' and 'The Taliban are cowards.'&nbsp;

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/chinas-top-health-body-says-will-no-longer-publish-daily-covid-numbers-546408">China's top health body says will no longer publish daily Covid numbers</a>

<img alt="China's top health body says will no longer publish daily Covid numbers" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="29c5e6c7-9f8d-471e-84e2-646827843f41" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/320757-new-wion-22.jpg" />

China's National Health Commission will no longer be publishing daily data on COVID-19 case figures for the country.

The health agency which as per Reuters has been publishing the numbers for the past three years has said that starting Sunday it won't release such data.

However, the agency did not disclose the reasons behind this decision. It is also not known how frequently China will now update Covid information.

Pope Francis on Christmas: 'Men &amp; women in their hunger for power, consume their own people'

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Ten months into the ongoing conflict with Russia, Ukraine remains defiant. In a message to Ukrainian citizens, President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the country will make its own Christmas magic.

Ten months into the ongoing conflict with Russia, Ukraine remains defiant. In a message to Ukrainian citizens, President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the country will make its own Christmas magic. In other news starting Sunday, China's top health body the National Health Commission will no longer be publishing daily data on COVID-19 cases. As the global community decried Taliban's latest order banning university education for girls, the group has reportedly resorted to using water cannons on students protesting the ban. Click on the headlines to read more: A defiant Volodymyr Zelensky says Ukraine will create its own Christmas Magic On the day that marks 10 months of Moscow's launching of the war that has killed tens and thousands and displaced millions, Zelensky said, "We endured at the beginning of the war - we withstood attacks, threats, nuclear blackmail, terror, missile strikes. We will endure this winter because we know what we are fighting for." 18 miners trapped in a gold mine in Xinjiang, rescue operation underway As many as 18 people were trapped in an underground gold mine in China's Xinjiang region on Sunday after a cave-in was reported by local news agencies. 40 people were working in the mine, situated 100 kilometres from the border with Kazakhstan when the accident occurred. Taliban use water cannons on Afghan women opposing prohibition on university education A video of Afghan women using a lane as a shield to protect themselves from a water cannon has gone viral on social media. The Taliban have started to opt for different ways to stop women from protesting against the university education ban in Afghanistan for females. Hundreds of Afghan women have taken to the streets to protest against the Taliban's decision. Protest marches in Afghanistan echoed with slogans like 'education is our right' and 'The Taliban are cowards.' China's top health body says will no longer publish daily Covid numbers China's National Health Commission will no longer be publishing daily data on COVID-19 case figures for the country. The health agency which as per Reuters has been publishing the numbers for the past three years has said that starting Sunday it won't release such data. However, the agency did not disclose the reasons behind this decision. It is also not known how frequently China will now update Covid information. Pope Francis on Christmas: 'Men & women in their hunger for power, consume their own people'

Morning Brief: Zelensky sends defiant Christmas message, China to stop publishing COVID count, and more

In a change in narrative matching softer signals from Washington, Russian President Vladimir Putin says he wants an end to the war in Ukraine. Have Washington and Moscow arrived at the coordinates of a potential deal? And can the U.S. impose its will on Ukraine? Priyanka Sharma gets you the full story.

Gravitas: Ukraine War: Is a potential peace deal possible?

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