Saudi Arabia “warned” G7 nations that it might&nbsp;sell off some&nbsp;of the European debt holdings if the group decides to seize all $300 billion of foreign exchange of Russia, reported Bloomberg.

The probable move by G7 nations was seen as support to Ukraine in the ongoing war against Russia. Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman launched a veiled threat to one of the most powerful groups of nations, showcasing the Saudi’s growing diplomatic clout on the world stage.

The warning by Mohammed Bin Salman is being seen as a major balance of power in the Ukraine-Russia war, which has almost led to the isolation of Russia by the Western countries.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-seizes-cargo-ship-that-was-used-to-export-grain-from-crimea-739917">Ukraine 'seizes' cargo ship that was used to export grain from Crimea</a>

The Saudi finance ministry’s opposition is said to have played a role in shaping the G7’s ultimate decision to tap only the profits generated by the frozen assets, rather than seizing them entirely.&nbsp;

<h2>Saudi Arabia’s intentions remain unclear</h2>

The actual intentions behind Saudi Arabia’s warning to G7 remain unclear. However, there is speculation that Riyadh was driven by self-interest, fearing that such a seizure might set a dangerous precedent for other countries in the future.

Some experts also see this as Saudi Arabia’s solidarity with Russia, given the close ties that Riyadh has maintained with Moscow amid the ongoing&nbsp;war in Ukraine, including their joint leadership of the OPEC+ oil cartel.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foreign-student-receiving-study-permits-soar-in-canada-despite-government-restrictions-739914">Canada sees rise in number of&nbsp;foreign students receiving study permit despite government restrictions</a>

The incident is also seen as Riyadh’s way of swaying BRICS nations, in order to become a member of the group, Bloomberg reported. The report noted that as&nbsp;these countries gain economic and diplomatic strength, they are increasingly able to challenge and shape global policy decisions that were once primarily dictated by Western nations.

The Saudi position on seizing Russian foreign assets also reflects a broader trend where issues like the Ukraine conflict are becoming a problem between the West and other nations. Much similar to how the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza&nbsp;has&nbsp;become a point of contention among world leaders of various nations, and it is no longer just a&nbsp;regional&nbsp;issue.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-thirds-of-americans-want-joe-biden-to-drop-out-of-presidential-race-in-damning-new-poll-739909">Two-thirds of Americans want Joe Biden to drop out of presidential race in damning new poll</a>

The Saudi threat also serves as a stark reminder of the Kingdom’s significant financial leverage. With net foreign reserves of $445 billion and a sovereign wealth fund approaching $1 trillion in assets, Saudi Arabia’s financial decisions can have far-reaching implications for global markets and geopolitics.

Ultimately, the G7 and EU agreed to a financial structure that will provide Ukraine with about $50 billion of fresh aid, using the profits generated by Russia’s blocked funds. The compromise solution reflects the delicate balancing act that Western powers must now perform, as we move towards a more multipolar world.

(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia “warned” G7 nations that it might sell off some of the European debt holdings if the group decides to seize all $300 billion of foreign exchange of Russia, reported Bloomberg.

Saudi Arabia “warned” G7 nations that it might sell off some of the European debt holdings if the group decides to seize all $300 billion of foreign exchange of Russia, reported Bloomberg. The probable move by G7 nations was seen as support to Ukraine in the ongoing war against Russia. Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman launched a veiled threat to one of the most powerful groups of nations, showcasing the Saudi’s growing diplomatic clout on the world stage. The warning by Mohammed Bin Salman is being seen as a major balance of power in the Ukraine-Russia war, which has almost led to the isolation of Russia by the Western countries. Also Read | Ukraine 'seizes' cargo ship that was used to export grain from Crimea The Saudi finance ministry’s opposition is said to have played a role in shaping the G7’s ultimate decision to tap only the profits generated by the frozen assets, rather than seizing them entirely. Saudi Arabia’s intentions remain unclear The actual intentions behind Saudi Arabia’s warning to G7 remain unclear. However, there is speculation that Riyadh was driven by self-interest, fearing that such a seizure might set a dangerous precedent for other countries in the future. Some experts also see this as Saudi Arabia’s solidarity with Russia, given the close ties that Riyadh has maintained with Moscow amid the ongoing war in Ukraine, including their joint leadership of the OPEC+ oil cartel. Also Read | Canada sees rise in number of foreign students receiving study permit despite government restrictions The incident is also seen as Riyadh’s way of swaying BRICS nations, in order to become a member of the group, Bloomberg reported. The report noted that as these countries gain economic and diplomatic strength, they are increasingly able to challenge and shape global policy decisions that were once primarily dictated by Western nations. The Saudi position on seizing Russian foreign assets also reflects a broader trend where issues like the Ukraine conflict are becoming a problem between the West and other nations. Much similar to how the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza has become a point of contention among world leaders of various nations, and it is no longer just a regional issue. Also Read | Two-thirds of Americans want Joe Biden to drop out of presidential race in damning new poll The Saudi threat also serves as a stark reminder of the Kingdom’s significant financial leverage. With net foreign reserves of $445 billion and a sovereign wealth fund approaching $1 trillion in assets, Saudi Arabia’s financial decisions can have far-reaching implications for global markets and geopolitics. Ultimately, the G7 and EU agreed to a financial structure that will provide Ukraine with about $50 billion of fresh aid, using the profits generated by Russia’s blocked funds. The compromise solution reflects the delicate balancing act that Western powers must now perform, as we move towards a more multipolar world. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia warned G7 nations not to seize Russian assets, gave debt sale threat: Report

Three people were reported dead after a missile strike by Russia in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv. The mayor of the city confirmed the news on his Telegram channel, where he earlier said that eight people also sustained injuries in the attack. “Three people have been killed," Mayor Andriy Sadovyi wrote while adding that at least 60 apartments and 50 cars were damaged.

This comes just days after a drone attack by Russia killed at least two people and injured 19 in the northern Ukrainian city of Sumy on Monday. The attack was carried out using four drones, in which one official building and two residential buildings were targeted, as per the city administration.

<h2>Zelensky calls for better anti-aircraft defence system</h2>

Following the Monday attacks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the country’s air defence system is poor and requires major upgradation. “Unfortunately, our country does not yet have a sufficient number of high-quality air defence systems to protect our entire territory and shoot down all enemy targets," Zelensky was quoted as saying by Reuters.

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"We will do everything possible and impossible to make our air defences the strongest," he added. He also said that protecting Ukraine’s borders was necessary and it would become the basis of a European air shield in the future.

<h2>West blamed for slow counteroffensive</h2>

Zelensky in a recent interview stated that delayed weapon delivery by the delayed delivery of weapons by the West caused severe harm to its counteroffensive operation against Russia.&nbsp;

In an exclusive interview with CNN, Zelensky said, “Our slowed-down counteroffensive is happening due to certain difficulties in the battlefield. Everything is heavily mined there," adding that he had sought to launch the operation against Russia “much earlier”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deliveries-of-western-weapons-would-have-started-counteroffensive-much-earlier-says-zelensky-612463">Also read:&nbsp;Delivery of Western weapons would have led to counteroffensive starting `much earlier`, says Zelensky</a>

"I wanted our counteroffensive happening much earlier because everyone understood that if the counteroffensive will be unfolding later, then a much bigger part of our territory will be mined," Zelensky said.

In a separate interview, Ukraine's military commander-in-chief Valery Zaluzhny also expressed his anger at the slow delivery of weapons by Western nations.&nbsp;

It "pisses me off" that some in the West complain about the slow start and progress of the long-awaited push against Russian forces in Ukraine's south, Zaluzhny was quoted as saying by the Washington Post.

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Three people were reported dead after a missile strike by Russia in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv. The mayor of the city confirmed the news on his Telegram channel, where he earlier said that eight people also sustained injuries in the attack.

Three people were reported dead after a missile strike by Russia in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv. The mayor of the city confirmed the news on his Telegram channel, where he earlier said that eight people also sustained injuries in the attack. “Three people have been killed," Mayor Andriy Sadovyi wrote while adding that at least 60 apartments and 50 cars were damaged. This comes just days after a drone attack by Russia killed at least two people and injured 19 in the northern Ukrainian city of Sumy on Monday. The attack was carried out using four drones, in which one official building and two residential buildings were targeted, as per the city administration. Zelensky calls for better anti-aircraft defence system Following the Monday attacks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the country’s air defence system is poor and requires major upgradation. “Unfortunately, our country does not yet have a sufficient number of high-quality air defence systems to protect our entire territory and shoot down all enemy targets," Zelensky was quoted as saying by Reuters. Watch: Ukrainian President Zelensky meets Greta Thunberg in Kyiv × "We will do everything possible and impossible to make our air defences the strongest," he added. He also said that protecting Ukraine’s borders was necessary and it would become the basis of a European air shield in the future. West blamed for slow counteroffensive Zelensky in a recent interview stated that delayed weapon delivery by the delayed delivery of weapons by the West caused severe harm to its counteroffensive operation against Russia. In an exclusive interview with CNN, Zelensky said, “Our slowed-down counteroffensive is happening due to certain difficulties in the battlefield. Everything is heavily mined there," adding that he had sought to launch the operation against Russia “much earlier”. Also read: Delivery of Western weapons would have led to counteroffensive starting `much earlier`, says Zelensky "I wanted our counteroffensive happening much earlier because everyone understood that if the counteroffensive will be unfolding later, then a much bigger part of our territory will be mined," Zelensky said. In a separate interview, Ukraine's military commander-in-chief Valery Zaluzhny also expressed his anger at the slow delivery of weapons by Western nations. It "pisses me off" that some in the West complain about the slow start and progress of the long-awaited push against Russian forces in Ukraine's south, Zaluzhny was quoted as saying by the Washington Post. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine: Russian missile strike damages 60 apartments, leaves 3 dead in Lviv

A 20-year-old Russian student, Olyesa Krivtsova is under house arrest in Europe for an anti-war post on her Instagram. She has been charged with ‘terrorism’ after she criticised Russia’s war in Ukraine on her social media. Her fellow students as well denounced her to authorities in need of an example. Krivtsova is now in Lithuania and is on Moscow’s list of most wanted criminals.&nbsp;

Krivtsova, a Russian student has been added to the federal wanted list on Monday after she fled the country to evade prosecution for criticising the war in Ukraine. She belongs to the northern city of Arkhangelsk and faces more than 10 years in prison on charges of ‘justifying terrorism’ and repeatedly ‘discrediting’ the Russian Armed Forces over social media posts.&nbsp;

She fled house arrest to EU and NATO member Lithuania on March 15. “I'm in Lithuania now and I can't believe it's all over,” the student wrote on her Telegram channel that day. “Russia will be free!”

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Several days later, Krvitsova’s name appeared on the Russian Interior Ministry’s wanted list, as Sota reported.&nbsp;

A court in Arkhangelsk on Monday ruled to replace Krivtsova’s house arrest with imprisonment in absentia. Russia’s Federal Financial Monitoring Service in January placed Krivtsova on its list of terrorists and extremists. Russian banks are required to freeze the accounts of individuals and organizations placed on this registry.

She is one of 57 people in Russia to have been charged with “discrediting the Russian Armed Forces,” according to the human rights group OVD-Info. Russia passed laws effectively outlawing public criticism of the invasion of Ukraine last spring.

Krivtsova’s charges stem from her reposting a friend's criticism of fellow students who supported Russia-staged referendums in occupied Ukrainian regions last fall, as well as a post justifying the Crimean Bridge explosion in October. She was then reported to law enforcement by fellow students at Russia’s Northern (Arctic) Federal University.&nbsp;

(With inouts from agencies)&nbsp;

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A 20-year-old Russian student, Olyesa Krivtsova is under house arrest in Europe for an anti-war post on her Instagram. She has been charged with ‘terrorism’ after she criticised Russia’s war in Ukraine on her social media.

A 20-year-old Russian student, Olyesa Krivtsova is under house arrest in Europe for an anti-war post on her Instagram. She has been charged with ‘terrorism’ after she criticised Russia’s war in Ukraine on her social media. Her fellow students as well denounced her to authorities in need of an example. Krivtsova is now in Lithuania and is on Moscow’s list of most wanted criminals. Krivtsova, a Russian student has been added to the federal wanted list on Monday after she fled the country to evade prosecution for criticising the war in Ukraine. She belongs to the northern city of Arkhangelsk and faces more than 10 years in prison on charges of ‘justifying terrorism’ and repeatedly ‘discrediting’ the Russian Armed Forces over social media posts. She fled house arrest to EU and NATO member Lithuania on March 15. “I'm in Lithuania now and I can't believe it's all over,” the student wrote on her Telegram channel that day. “Russia will be free!” Also Read | Germany to hire 60,000 workers from outside EU as part of new immigration plan. Check details here Several days later, Krvitsova’s name appeared on the Russian Interior Ministry’s wanted list, as Sota reported. A court in Arkhangelsk on Monday ruled to replace Krivtsova’s house arrest with imprisonment in absentia. Russia’s Federal Financial Monitoring Service in January placed Krivtsova on its list of terrorists and extremists. Russian banks are required to freeze the accounts of individuals and organizations placed on this registry. She is one of 57 people in Russia to have been charged with “discrediting the Russian Armed Forces,” according to the human rights group OVD-Info. Russia passed laws effectively outlawing public criticism of the invasion of Ukraine last spring. Krivtsova’s charges stem from her reposting a friend's criticism of fellow students who supported Russia-staged referendums in occupied Ukrainian regions last fall, as well as a post justifying the Crimean Bridge explosion in October. She was then reported to law enforcement by fellow students at Russia’s Northern (Arctic) Federal University. (With inouts 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.

Who is Olesya Krivtsova? 20-year-old Russian student on Moscow's most wanted list- Why is she arrested?

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has slammed Amnesty International after the group accused the Ukrainian army of endangering civilians and violating humanitarian law in their fight against Russian forces.

He called out the double standards of the international rights group saying that Amnesty had tried to "amnesty the terrorist state (Russia) and shift the responsibility from the aggressor to the victim", Zelensky said in his daily address, reports AFP.

The Ukrainian leader said that Amnesty was drawing a "false equivalence" between the actions of Russia's invading forces and Ukrainians defending their homeland.

“There is no condition, even hypothetically, under which any Russian strike on Ukraine becomes justified. Aggression against our state is unprovoked, invasive and terrorist," he said.

"If someone makes a report in which the victim and the aggressor are supposedly equal in some way, if some data about the victim is analysed, and the aggressor's actions at the same time is ignored, then this cannot be tolerated," he added.

In its report, Amnesty listed incidents when Ukrainian forces appeared to have exposed civilians to danger in 19 towns and villages in the Kharkiv, Donbas and Mykolaiv regions.

"We have documented a pattern of Ukrainian forces putting civilians at risk and violating the laws of war when they operate in populated areas," Amnesty secretary general Agnes Callamard said.

"Being in a defensive position does not exempt the Ukrainian military from respecting international humanitarian law."

The report noted that residential areas where Ukrainian soldiers based themselves were miles away from frontlines, and "viable alternatives" were available that would not endanger civilians,

Researchers from Amnesty further claimed to have witnessed Ukrainian forces using hospitals as "de facto military bases" in five areas, and 22 schools.

Though the schools were located in civilian neighbourhoods, they have been shut during the conflict.

"We have no say in what the military does, but we pay the price," the report quoted one resident as saying.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has slammed Amnesty International after the group accused the Ukrainian army of endangering civilians and violating humanitarian law in their fight against Russian forces.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has slammed Amnesty International after the group accused the Ukrainian army of endangering civilians and violating humanitarian law in their fight against Russian forces. He called out the double standards of the international rights group saying that Amnesty had tried to "amnesty the terrorist state (Russia) and shift the responsibility from the aggressor to the victim", Zelensky said in his daily address, reports AFP. The Ukrainian leader said that Amnesty was drawing a "false equivalence" between the actions of Russia's invading forces and Ukrainians defending their homeland. “There is no condition, even hypothetically, under which any Russian strike on Ukraine becomes justified. Aggression against our state is unprovoked, invasive and terrorist," he said. "If someone makes a report in which the victim and the aggressor are supposedly equal in some way, if some data about the victim is analysed, and the aggressor's actions at the same time is ignored, then this cannot be tolerated," he added. In its report, Amnesty listed incidents when Ukrainian forces appeared to have exposed civilians to danger in 19 towns and villages in the Kharkiv, Donbas and Mykolaiv regions. "We have documented a pattern of Ukrainian forces putting civilians at risk and violating the laws of war when they operate in populated areas," Amnesty secretary general Agnes Callamard said. "Being in a defensive position does not exempt the Ukrainian military from respecting international humanitarian law." The report noted that residential areas where Ukrainian soldiers based themselves were miles away from frontlines, and "viable alternatives" were available that would not endanger civilians, Researchers from Amnesty further claimed to have witnessed Ukrainian forces using hospitals as "de facto military bases" in five areas, and 22 schools. Though the schools were located in civilian neighbourhoods, they have been shut during the conflict. "We have no say in what the military does, but we pay the price," the report quoted one resident as saying. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Zelensky slams Amnesty for drawing ‘false equivalence between Russian invaders and Ukrainian defenders’

British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said that their government is mulling to replicate Canada and seizing the assets of Russians in the UK in order to give them to Ukraine.

The move comes hours ahead of Truss’s meeting on Monday in Lugano, Switzerland, which will be attended by most of Ukraine’s senior political leadership either in person or virtually. The conference will focus on Ukrainian reconstruction.

It has been estimated that over 120,000 homes in Ukraine have been destroyed in the war and the country will require billions in aid to help rebuild its infrastructure and economy.

According to The Guardian, Truss told MPs last week that the government could seize frozen Russian assets in the UK and redistribute them to victims of Russia’s war in Ukraine.

&nbsp;“I am supportive of the concept. We are looking at it very closely. The Canadians have in fact just passed legislation This is an issue that we are working on jointly with the Home Office and the Treasury, but I certainly agree with the concept. We just need to get the specifics of it right,” she was quoted as saying.

She said the initiative would “most probably” need legislation but not necessarily.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-armys-twitter-and-youtube-accounts-hacked-494317" hreflang="en">British Army’s Twitter, YouTube accounts hacked to display crypto scams</a>

Currently, the UK has the power to suspend Russian assets under the Economic Crime Act for 56 days and roll over the suspension for a further 56 days. In that period the owner of the asset cannot benefit from the asset in any way.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-mps-seek-ban-on-chinese-cos-making-cctvs-used-in-xinjiang-494326" hreflang="en">UK MPs seek ban on Chinese cos making CCTVs used in Xinjiang</a>

At the conference, Truss’ main aim is to position the UK as Ukraine’s key partner in the recovery process. Britain has already offered $1.5bn to the country through multilateral loan guarantees and more than £100m in bilateral support, reports the UK-based newspaper.

(With inputs from agencies)

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British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said that their government is mulling to replicate Canada and seizing the assets of Russians in the UK in order to give them to Ukraine.

British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said that their government is mulling to replicate Canada and seizing the assets of Russians in the UK in order to give them to Ukraine. The move comes hours ahead of Truss’s meeting on Monday in Lugano, Switzerland, which will be attended by most of Ukraine’s senior political leadership either in person or virtually. The conference will focus on Ukrainian reconstruction. It has been estimated that over 120,000 homes in Ukraine have been destroyed in the war and the country will require billions in aid to help rebuild its infrastructure and economy. According to The Guardian, Truss told MPs last week that the government could seize frozen Russian assets in the UK and redistribute them to victims of Russia’s war in Ukraine. “I am supportive of the concept. We are looking at it very closely. The Canadians have in fact just passed legislation This is an issue that we are working on jointly with the Home Office and the Treasury, but I certainly agree with the concept. We just need to get the specifics of it right,” she was quoted as saying. She said the initiative would “most probably” need legislation but not necessarily. Also read | British Army’s Twitter, YouTube accounts hacked to display crypto scams Currently, the UK has the power to suspend Russian assets under the Economic Crime Act for 56 days and roll over the suspension for a further 56 days. In that period the owner of the asset cannot benefit from the asset in any way. Also read | UK MPs seek ban on Chinese cos making CCTVs used in Xinjiang At the conference, Truss’ main aim is to position the UK as Ukraine’s key partner in the recovery process. Britain has already offered $1.5bn to the country through multilateral loan guarantees and more than £100m in bilateral support, reports the UK-based newspaper. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK mulling seizure of Russian assets to give to Ukraine: Foreign Secretary Liz Truss

Former restaurants of McDonald’s were thrown open to the public in Moscow on Sunday under a new brand name— Vkusno &amp; tochka, which translates to "Tasty and that's it".

About 15 restaurants were opened under the new brand name in the Russian capital, with many more expected to open across the country. Another 50 restaurants will be open on Monday, Vkusno &amp; tochka said.

This comes after McDonalds on May 16 announced to shut their operations in Russia in response to the invasion of Ukraine that began on February 24.

Oleg Paroev, chief executive of Vkusno &amp; tochka, said the fast-food chain has plans to reopen 200 restaurants in Russia by the end of June and all 850 by the end of the summer, reports Reuters.

"Our goal is that our guests do not notice a difference either in quality or ambience," Paroev told a media conference in what used to be the first McDonald's restaurant that opened in Soviet Moscow in 1990.

Alexander Govor, the new owner of the chain, said the company employs 51,000 people.

"The corporation asked me to, first of all, keep the headcount, to provide people with work. That's what I'm going to do," he added.

The rebranded fast-food chain will keep its old McDonald's interior but will expunge any references to its old name, said Paroev, who was appointed Russia McDonald's CEO in February, weeks before Moscow invaded Ukraine on Feb 24.

The reopening of the outlets, three decades after McDonald's first opened in Moscow in a symbolic thaw between East and West, could provide a test of how successfully Russia's economy can become more self-sufficient and withstand Western sanctions.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former restaurants of McDonald’s were thrown open to the public in Moscow on Sunday under a new brand name— Vkusno & tochka, which translates to "Tasty and that's it".

Former restaurants of McDonald’s were thrown open to the public in Moscow on Sunday under a new brand name— Vkusno & tochka, which translates to "Tasty and that's it". About 15 restaurants were opened under the new brand name in the Russian capital, with many more expected to open across the country. Another 50 restaurants will be open on Monday, Vkusno & tochka said. This comes after McDonalds on May 16 announced to shut their operations in Russia in response to the invasion of Ukraine that began on February 24. Oleg Paroev, chief executive of Vkusno & tochka, said the fast-food chain has plans to reopen 200 restaurants in Russia by the end of June and all 850 by the end of the summer, reports Reuters. "Our goal is that our guests do not notice a difference either in quality or ambience," Paroev told a media conference in what used to be the first McDonald's restaurant that opened in Soviet Moscow in 1990. Alexander Govor, the new owner of the chain, said the company employs 51,000 people. "The corporation asked me to, first of all, keep the headcount, to provide people with work. That's what I'm going to do," he added. The rebranded fast-food chain will keep its old McDonald's interior but will expunge any references to its old name, said Paroev, who was appointed Russia McDonald's CEO in February, weeks before Moscow invaded Ukraine on Feb 24. The reopening of the outlets, three decades after McDonald's first opened in Moscow in a symbolic thaw between East and West, could provide a test of how successfully Russia's economy can become more self-sufficient and withstand Western sanctions. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Vkusno & tochka’: Russia’s McDonald’s reopens under new brand name in Moscow

According to reports, hackers targeted a Russian radio station as it played&nbsp;the Ukrainian national anthem.

The radio station Kommersant FM confirmed it was hacked while informing that it would have to reinstate the internet stream. The hackers reportedly played the song by Russian rock band Nogu Svelo named "we don't need a war".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-zelensky-says-millions-of-people-could-starve-because-of-russias-blockade-of-ports-486560">Also Read:&nbsp;Zelensky says millions of people could starve because of Russia's blockade of ports</a>

The song by Nogu Svelo reportedly also features a quote from Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in which he says “a tough guy always keeps his word.”

The radio station is reportedly owned by Russian oligarch Alisher Usmanov who was sanctioned by the US and the European Union after President Putin ordered his troops to invade Ukraine on February 24.

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Russian television broadcast was hacked earlier as it displayed anti-war messages as the nation celebrated its military festival. Three radio stations were also targeted in Saint Petersburg while&nbsp;it played anti-war songs for over two hours, reports claimed.

Meanwhile, reports said&nbsp;pro-Russian hackers targeted websites in Italy including the defence ministry's website and the Senate. Reports claimed hackers also tried to enter the Eurovision song contest's website.

Western powers had earlier accused Russia of a cyberattack against a satellite network one hour ahead of Ukraine's invasion. &nbsp;

UK foreign minister Liz Truss called it a "clear and shocking evidence of a deliberate and malicious attack by Russia" as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken pointed out that Russia tried to disrupt "aperture terminals in Ukraine and across Europe".

(With inputs from Agencies)

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According to reports, hackers targeted a Russian radio station as it played the Ukrainian national anthem. The radio station Kommersant FM confirmed it was hacked while informing that it would have to reinstate the internet stream.

According to reports, hackers targeted a Russian radio station as it played the Ukrainian national anthem. The radio station Kommersant FM confirmed it was hacked while informing that it would have to reinstate the internet stream. The hackers reportedly played the song by Russian rock band Nogu Svelo named "we don't need a war". Also Read: Zelensky says millions of people could starve because of Russia's blockade of ports The song by Nogu Svelo reportedly also features a quote from Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in which he says “a tough guy always keeps his word.” The radio station is reportedly owned by Russian oligarch Alisher Usmanov who was sanctioned by the US and the European Union after President Putin ordered his troops to invade Ukraine on February 24. Watch: Russia suspends 1998 Fishing pact with Japan Russian television broadcast was hacked earlier as it displayed anti-war messages as the nation celebrated its military festival. Three radio stations were also targeted in Saint Petersburg while it played anti-war songs for over two hours, reports claimed. Meanwhile, reports said pro-Russian hackers targeted websites in Italy including the defence ministry's website and the Senate. Reports claimed hackers also tried to enter the Eurovision song contest's website. Western powers had earlier accused Russia of a cyberattack against a satellite network one hour ahead of Ukraine's invasion. UK foreign minister Liz Truss called it a "clear and shocking evidence of a deliberate and malicious attack by Russia" as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken pointed out that Russia tried to disrupt "aperture terminals in Ukraine and across Europe". (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Don't need a war': Russian oligarch's radio station hacked; plays Ukraine's national anthem

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Thursday asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin will not win the war against Ukraine, adding that he will not be allowed to dictate peace.

The chancellor made the comments at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, primarily focusing&nbsp;on Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He is the only head of state from a G7 country to physically appear at this year's conference.

Taking aim at the Russian president Scholz said, “A major nuclear power is behaving as if it has the right to redraw borders”

"Putin wants a return to a world order in which might dictates what is right —&nbsp;in which freedom, determination and sovereignty are not for everyone,” Deutsche Welle (DW) news outlet quoted Scholz as saying.

"We cannot allow Putin to win this war," the chancellor said, adding, “It is a matter of making it clear to Putin that there will be no dictated peace — Ukraine will not accept that, and neither will we,” he added.

Watch |&nbsp;Last day of WEF Davos 2022: Annual Summit overshadowed by economic worries

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Scholz said that Putin “underestimated” the “resolve and strength” of allies in countering his aggression in Ukraine. He claimed that Kremlin’s actions in Ukraine has also now pushed Finland and Sweden to join the NATO military alliance.

“Our goal is crystal clear - Putin must not win this war. And I am convinced that he will not win it,” the German chancellor said.

He added that Germany’s support for Kyiv will continue to be coordinated with allies and that it will not allow NATO to become a “party in the conflict”.

Also read&nbsp; |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-putin-trying-to-extinguish-a-culture-says-joe-biden-481750" hreflang="en">Russia-Ukraine conflict: Putin trying to ‘extinguish a culture’, says Joe Biden</a>

Scholz, however, did not address criticisms from Ukraine that Germany was not doing enough in supplying Kyiv with heavy weapons, AFP reported.

Also read&nbsp; |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-shelled-more-than-40-towns-in-donbas-says-ukraine-military-482246" hreflang="en">Russia shelled more than 40 towns in Donbas, says Ukraine military</a>

Ukraine has been urging Berlin to speed up deliveries of heavy armaments including Leopard tanks and Marder armoured vehicles.

(With inputs from agencies)

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German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Thursday asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin will not win the war against Ukraine, adding that he will not be allowed to dictate peace.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Thursday asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin will not win the war against Ukraine, adding that he will not be allowed to dictate peace. The chancellor made the comments at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, primarily focusing on Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He is the only head of state from a G7 country to physically appear at this year's conference. Taking aim at the Russian president Scholz said, “A major nuclear power is behaving as if it has the right to redraw borders” "Putin wants a return to a world order in which might dictates what is right — in which freedom, determination and sovereignty are not for everyone,” Deutsche Welle (DW) news outlet quoted Scholz as saying. "We cannot allow Putin to win this war," the chancellor said, adding, “It is a matter of making it clear to Putin that there will be no dictated peace — Ukraine will not accept that, and neither will we,” he added. Watch | Last day of WEF Davos 2022: Annual Summit overshadowed by economic worries Scholz said that Putin “underestimated” the “resolve and strength” of allies in countering his aggression in Ukraine. He claimed that Kremlin’s actions in Ukraine has also now pushed Finland and Sweden to join the NATO military alliance. “Our goal is crystal clear - Putin must not win this war. And I am convinced that he will not win it,” the German chancellor said. He added that Germany’s support for Kyiv will continue to be coordinated with allies and that it will not allow NATO to become a “party in the conflict”. Also read | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Putin trying to ‘extinguish a culture’, says Joe Biden Scholz, however, did not address criticisms from Ukraine that Germany was not doing enough in supplying Kyiv with heavy weapons, AFP reported. Also read | Russia shelled more than 40 towns in Donbas, says Ukraine military Ukraine has been urging Berlin to speed up deliveries of heavy armaments including Leopard tanks and Marder armoured vehicles. (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.

Vladimir Putin will not win Ukraine war, says German Chancellor Olaf Scholz

As the West continues to send arms and pledges to donate billions of dollars as war aid to Ukraine, Russia has claimed that it has deployed its two ‘state-of-the-art’ laser weapon systems—'Peresvet’ and ‘Zadira‘—to burn drones.

The announcement was made by the deputy prime minister and in charge of military development, Yury Borisov, on Thursday who said that even more powerful laser-based weapons capable of destroying their targets are being tested and deployed in the war, according to Reuters.

Detailing the prowess of the lasers, the deputy PM cited a recent test where the Zadira burned a drone more than five kilometres (three miles) away in seconds.

“If Peresvet blinds, then the new generation of laser weapons lead to the physical destruction of the target — thermal destruction, they burn up,”&nbsp;Reuters quoted him as saying on Russian state television.

He called “Zadira” the most powerful laser system than Peresvet.

However, Ukraine President Vlodomyr Zelensky trashed the claims by drawing parallels to Nazi Germany’s “so-called wonder weapons” that were “unveiled in a bid to prevent defeat in World War Two.”

“The clearer it became that they had no chance in the war, the more propaganda there was about an amazing weapon that would be so powerful as to ensure a turning point,”&nbsp;Reuters&nbsp;quoted him as saying in a late night video address.

What do we know about the two laser weapons?

1) Russian leader Vladimir Putin had unveiled an array of new and deadly weapons in 2018, including an intercontinental ballistic missile, underwater nuclear drones, a supersonic weapon and a laser system.

2) Little is known about the specifics of the new laser. Putin back then mentioned Peresvet, named after a medieval Orthodox warrior monk Alexander Peresvet who perished in mortal combat.

3) Borisov said that Peresvet was already being widely deployed and it could blind satellites up to 1,500 km above Earth.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-send-additional-military-aid-of-100-million-to-help-ukraine-in-ongoing-conflict-480560" hreflang="en">US to send additional military aid of $100 million to help Ukraine in ongoing conflict</a>

4) Asked if such weapons were being used in Ukraine, Borisov said: "Yes. The first prototypes are already being used there." He said the weapon was called "Zadira".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-exclusive-interview-to-wion-chechen-leader-says-russian-operations-end-depends-on-ukrainian-govt-480548" hreflang="en">In exclusive interview to WION, Chechen leader says Russian operation’s end depends on Ukrainian govt</a>

5) Though there is no public information available about Zadira, the Russian media in 2017 said that state nuclear corporation Rosatom helped develop it as part of a programme to create weapons-based new physical principles.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the West continues to send arms and pledges to donate billions of dollars as war aid to Ukraine, Russia has claimed that it has deployed its two ‘state-of-the-art’ laser weapon systems—'Peresvet’ and ‘Zadira‘—to burn drones.

As the West continues to send arms and pledges to donate billions of dollars as war aid to Ukraine, Russia has claimed that it has deployed its two ‘state-of-the-art’ laser weapon systems—'Peresvet’ and ‘Zadira‘—to burn drones. The announcement was made by the deputy prime minister and in charge of military development, Yury Borisov, on Thursday who said that even more powerful laser-based weapons capable of destroying their targets are being tested and deployed in the war, according to Reuters. Detailing the prowess of the lasers, the deputy PM cited a recent test where the Zadira burned a drone more than five kilometres (three miles) away in seconds. “If Peresvet blinds, then the new generation of laser weapons lead to the physical destruction of the target — thermal destruction, they burn up,” Reuters quoted him as saying on Russian state television. He called “Zadira” the most powerful laser system than Peresvet. However, Ukraine President Vlodomyr Zelensky trashed the claims by drawing parallels to Nazi Germany’s “so-called wonder weapons” that were “unveiled in a bid to prevent defeat in World War Two.” “The clearer it became that they had no chance in the war, the more propaganda there was about an amazing weapon that would be so powerful as to ensure a turning point,” Reuters quoted him as saying in a late night video address. What do we know about the two laser weapons? 1) Russian leader Vladimir Putin had unveiled an array of new and deadly weapons in 2018, including an intercontinental ballistic missile, underwater nuclear drones, a supersonic weapon and a laser system. 2) Little is known about the specifics of the new laser. Putin back then mentioned Peresvet, named after a medieval Orthodox warrior monk Alexander Peresvet who perished in mortal combat. 3) Borisov said that Peresvet was already being widely deployed and it could blind satellites up to 1,500 km above Earth. Also read | US to send additional military aid of $100 million to help Ukraine in ongoing conflict 4) Asked if such weapons were being used in Ukraine, Borisov said: "Yes. The first prototypes are already being used there." He said the weapon was called "Zadira". Also read | In exclusive interview to WION, Chechen leader says Russian operation’s end depends on Ukrainian govt 5) Though there is no public information available about Zadira, the Russian media in 2017 said that state nuclear corporation Rosatom helped develop it as part of a programme to create weapons-based new physical principles. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

'Peresvet' and ‘Zadira': Russia unveils new laser weapons against Ukraine

Russian and Ukrainian soldiers have been fighting for nearly 80 days now as troops on Kremlin’s order make advances into Ukraine’s territories.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have been deploying their troops for offensive and counter-offensive in different cities including Kyiv, Mariupol, Kherson and others since the Russian troops marched into Ukrainian territory on February 24.

Russia successfully occupied Ukrainian regions in a battle that has been going on for months now.

Notably, Luhansk and&nbsp;Donetsk were the regions in Ukraine that were already occupied by Russia before February 24.

Nearly entire cities of Kherson and Mariupol are now under Russia’s control, as per reports.

Interestingly, Ukrainian soldiers are fighting Russian troops in the Azovstal Steelworks – the last area in Mariupol under Ukraine’s control.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian soldiers recaptured a few villages near Kharkiv region recently. Ukrainian forces have also regained control of some regions in the North.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finland-says-one-step-closer-to-joining-nato-russia-calls-it-a-threat-to-our-borders-478383" hreflang="en">Finland says one step closer to joining NATO, Russia calls it a threat to ‘our borders’</a>

The ongoing fight between Russia and Ukraine has led to at least 6 million people leaving Ukraine, as per the United Nations High Commissions for Refugees (UNHCR).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-intends-to-achieve-goals-beyond-donbas-may-impose-martial-law-us-intelligence-chief-477931" hreflang="en">Putin intends to achieve goals beyond Donbas, may impose martial law: US intelligence chief</a>

Majority of migrants (around 3.2 million) have arrived in Poland.

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Russian and Ukrainian soldiers have been fighting for nearly 80 days now as troops on Kremlin’s order make advances into Ukraine’s territories. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have been deploying their troops for offensive and counter-offensive in different cities including Kyiv, Mariupol, Kherson and others since the Russian troops marched into Ukrainian territory on February 24.

Russian and Ukrainian soldiers have been fighting for nearly 80 days now as troops on Kremlin’s order make advances into Ukraine’s territories. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have been deploying their troops for offensive and counter-offensive in different cities including Kyiv, Mariupol, Kherson and others since the Russian troops marched into Ukrainian territory on February 24. Russia successfully occupied Ukrainian regions in a battle that has been going on for months now. Notably, Luhansk and Donetsk were the regions in Ukraine that were already occupied by Russia before February 24. Nearly entire cities of Kherson and Mariupol are now under Russia’s control, as per reports. Interestingly, Ukrainian soldiers are fighting Russian troops in the Azovstal Steelworks – the last area in Mariupol under Ukraine’s control. Meanwhile, Ukrainian soldiers recaptured a few villages near Kharkiv region recently. Ukrainian forces have also regained control of some regions in the North. Also read | Finland says one step closer to joining NATO, Russia calls it a threat to ‘our borders’ The ongoing fight between Russia and Ukraine has led to at least 6 million people leaving Ukraine, as per the United Nations High Commissions for Refugees (UNHCR). Also read | Putin intends to achieve goals beyond Donbas, may impose martial law: US intelligence chief Majority of migrants (around 3.2 million) have arrived in Poland. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

State of war: Which territories are under Russian control and where is Ukraine offering stiff resistance?

Responding to Finland’s move to join NATO, Kremlin on Thursday sounded a warning that their neighbour’s decision to join the US-led military alliance would “definitely” pose a threat to Russia.

“The expansion of NATO and the approach of the alliance to our borders does not make the world and our continent more stable and secure,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, according to Reuters.

When asked what move would Russia take following Finland’s decision, Peskov said that it will depend on what specific steps NATO will take to bring its infrastructure close to the Russian borders.

He noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin already had ordered to work out steps to strengthen the country's defences in the west in response to NATO's expansion closer to the Russian borders.

When asked whether Finland’s membership would be a threat, Peskov answered: “definitely.”

Watch |&nbsp;Reports: Allies to approve Finland and Sweden's NATO membership bid

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“Everything will depend on how this process takes place, how far the military infrastructure will move towards our borders,” he said.

Earlier in the day, Finland’s President Sauli Niinisto and Prime Minister Sanna Marin had announced that the Nordic nation is just one step close to joining NATO, finally shedding its decades-long policy of military neutrality.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/despite-sanctions-russian-ruble-is-the-worlds-top-performing-currency-in-2022-478370">Despite sanctions, Russian ruble is world's top performing currency in 2022</a>

In the joint statement, Niinisto and Marin said: "NATO membership would strengthen Finland's security. As a member of NATO, Finland would strengthen the entire defence alliance. Finland must apply for NATO membership without delay. We hope that the national steps still needed to make this decision will be taken rapidly within the next few days."

The statement came after the Finnish government recently submitted a report on national security to the country's parliament which outlined the path to joining the alliance as one of Finland’s options.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-intends-to-achieve-goals-beyond-donbas-may-impose-martial-law-us-intelligence-chief-477931" hreflang="en">Putin intends to achieve goals beyond Donbas, may impose martial law: US intelligence chief</a>

Finland shares a 1,300-kilometre (800-mile) border with Russia and has been militarily non-aligned for decades.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Responding to Finland’s move to join NATO, Kremlin on Thursday sounded a warning that their neighbour’s decision to join the US-led military alliance would “definitely” pose a threat to Russia.

Responding to Finland’s move to join NATO, Kremlin on Thursday sounded a warning that their neighbour’s decision to join the US-led military alliance would “definitely” pose a threat to Russia. “The expansion of NATO and the approach of the alliance to our borders does not make the world and our continent more stable and secure,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, according to Reuters. When asked what move would Russia take following Finland’s decision, Peskov said that it will depend on what specific steps NATO will take to bring its infrastructure close to the Russian borders. He noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin already had ordered to work out steps to strengthen the country's defences in the west in response to NATO's expansion closer to the Russian borders. When asked whether Finland’s membership would be a threat, Peskov answered: “definitely.” Watch | Reports: Allies to approve Finland and Sweden's NATO membership bid “Everything will depend on how this process takes place, how far the military infrastructure will move towards our borders,” he said. Earlier in the day, Finland’s President Sauli Niinisto and Prime Minister Sanna Marin had announced that the Nordic nation is just one step close to joining NATO, finally shedding its decades-long policy of military neutrality. Also read | Despite sanctions, Russian ruble is world's top performing currency in 2022 In the joint statement, Niinisto and Marin said: "NATO membership would strengthen Finland's security. As a member of NATO, Finland would strengthen the entire defence alliance. Finland must apply for NATO membership without delay. We hope that the national steps still needed to make this decision will be taken rapidly within the next few days." The statement came after the Finnish government recently submitted a report on national security to the country's parliament which outlined the path to joining the alliance as one of Finland’s options. Also read | Putin intends to achieve goals beyond Donbas, may impose martial law: US intelligence chief Finland shares a 1,300-kilometre (800-mile) border with Russia and has been militarily non-aligned for decades. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Finland says one step closer to joining NATO, Russia calls it a threat to ‘our borders’

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.

Is Vladimir Putin unwell? Some news outlets in the West are speculating that the health of the Russian president might be deteriorating after&nbsp;a video of him appearing fidgety and unsteady during a church service went viral.

In the clip, the 69-year-old president—who reportedly has Parkinson’s or terminal cancer— appeared to chew the insides of his mouth while clutching a candle near the altar at a midnight mass for Orthodox Easter, The Sun reports.

A dry mouth can be a symptom of Parkinson's Disease, noted another British outlet The Daily Mail.

The clip has sparked fresh speculations about his health, which has reportedly deteriorated since the Russian invasion of&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;on 24 February.

It came days after Putin was seen gripping a table and tapping his foot&nbsp;in the video that Kremlin watchers claimed showed a drastic decline in his physical state, reports the Independent.

The video purportedly showed Putin’s bloated face and neck, and poor posture while being seated alongside Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.

Anders Aslund, an author and former adviser on Russia and Ukraine, said that both men looked like they were not in good health.

The New York Post has even reported that the Russian President looked noticeably bloated when he posed for photographs at an awards ceremony for the country's Olympic athletes.

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Putin was not looking at all well today. People have particularly noted his hunched position and the fact he never let go of the table during the entire 12-minute meeting with Shoigu. (Source: <a href="https://twitter.com/SvobodaRadio?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SvobodaRadio</a>.) <a href="https://t.co/cjPyNh0l9F">pic.twitter.com/cjPyNh0l9F</a>
— Timothy Phillips (@TSJPhillips) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSJPhillips/status/1517217288814055425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Apart from that that there was another recording where his hand seemed to quiver before he holds it closer to his chest.

Many observers on Twitter said Putin’s actions are consistent with someone suffering from Parkinson's disease, which causes tremors, slow movement and stiffness.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/defence-secretary-lloyd-austin-says-ukraine-could-apply-to-join-nato-in-the-future-474110" hreflang="en">Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin says Ukraine could apply to join NATO in the future</a>

Reuters reported Putin did not join in with the congregational response, declining to respond “he has truly risen”, along with the rest of the congregation.

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Putin is unsteady. <a href="https://t.co/ohlCZvMqYt">pic.twitter.com/ohlCZvMqYt</a>
— Ken Olin (@kenolin1) <a href="https://twitter.com/kenolin1/status/1518383732607967233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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But Moscow has repeatedly denied reports that the Russian leader&nbsp;has suffered from severe ill health.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-accuses-russia-of-trying-to-destabilise-separatist-region-in-moldova-474159" hreflang="en">Ukraine accuses Russia of trying to destabilise separatist region in Moldova</a>

Earlier this month, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov denied that Putin had undergone surgery for thyroid cancer, and said that the president’s health was “excellent” and that he had not dealt with any illness more serious than a cold.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia agrees to cooperate with UN, Putin says he is 'hopeful' that talks will help

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(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.

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. Is Vladimir Putin unwell? Some news outlets in the West are speculating that the health of the Russian president might be deteriorating after a video of him appearing fidgety and unsteady during a church service went viral. In the clip, the 69-year-old president—who reportedly has Parkinson’s or terminal cancer— appeared to chew the insides of his mouth while clutching a candle near the altar at a midnight mass for Orthodox Easter, The Sun reports. A dry mouth can be a symptom of Parkinson's Disease, noted another British outlet The Daily Mail. The clip has sparked fresh speculations about his health, which has reportedly deteriorated since the Russian invasion of Ukraine on 24 February. It came days after Putin was seen gripping a table and tapping his foot in the video that Kremlin watchers claimed showed a drastic decline in his physical state, reports the Independent. The video purportedly showed Putin’s bloated face and neck, and poor posture while being seated alongside Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. Anders Aslund, an author and former adviser on Russia and Ukraine, said that both men looked like they were not in good health. The New York Post has even reported that the Russian President looked noticeably bloated when he posed for photographs at an awards ceremony for the country's Olympic athletes. Putin was not looking at all well today. People have particularly noted his hunched position and the fact he never let go of the table during the entire 12-minute meeting with Shoigu. (Source: @SvobodaRadio.) pic.twitter.com/cjPyNh0l9F — Timothy Phillips (@TSJPhillips) April 21, 2022 × Apart from that that there was another recording where his hand seemed to quiver before he holds it closer to his chest. Many observers on Twitter said Putin’s actions are consistent with someone suffering from Parkinson's disease, which causes tremors, slow movement and stiffness. Also read | Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin says Ukraine could apply to join NATO in the future Reuters reported Putin did not join in with the congregational response, declining to respond “he has truly risen”, along with the rest of the congregation. Putin is unsteady. pic.twitter.com/ohlCZvMqYt — Ken Olin (@kenolin1) April 25, 2022 × But Moscow has repeatedly denied reports that the Russian leader has suffered from severe ill health. Also read | Ukraine accuses Russia of trying to destabilise separatist region in Moldova Earlier this month, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov denied that Putin had undergone surgery for thyroid cancer, and said that the president’s health was “excellent” and that he had not dealt with any illness more serious than a cold. Watch | Russia agrees to cooperate with UN, Putin says he is 'hopeful' that talks will help (With inputs from agencies)

Is Putin unwell? Videos of Russian prez appearing fidgety at Easter cathedral service sparks health rumours

The head of the UN's atomic watchdog on Tuesday said that the radiation levels at the Chernobyl power plant are “normal” and condemned the weeks-long occupation by the Russian forces.

International Atomic Energy Agency director-general Rafael Grossi told reporters Russia's weeks-long occupation of the site was "very, very dangerous", according to AFP.

"The radiation level, I would say, is at normal. There have been some moments when the levels have gone up because of the movement of the heavy equipment that Russian forces were bringing here and when they left," Grossi added.

The comments were made during the 36th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster, which occurred as the result of a flawed reactor design that was operated with inadequately trained personnel.

Grossi was dispatched to Chernobyl Power Plant to help prevent the dangers of a nuclear accident amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

On Thursday, the UN agency said that the mission will “deliver vital equipment and conduct radiological and other assessments at the site”.

The site of the world’s worst nuclear disaster, the Chornobyl Nuclear Power plant, was under Russian occupation for five weeks before they handed it over to Ukrainian troops.

Watch |&nbsp;Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day: What happened in 1986?

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Moreover, there were reports of the Russian forces being exposed to radiation levels during their temporary control of the Chornobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine.

Ukrainian defence ministry on April 1 had claimed that the Russian troops looted the power plant, taking "kettles, lab equipment, and radiation."

Responding to the claims, the IAEA had said it is working to determine the veracity of reports that Russian soldiers received high doses of radiation.In the years since the disaster, thousands have died due to radiation-induced cancers and illnesses.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE&nbsp;

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The head of the UN's atomic watchdog on Tuesday said that the radiation levels at the Chernobyl power plant are “normal” and condemned the weeks-long occupation by the Russian forces.

The head of the UN's atomic watchdog on Tuesday said that the radiation levels at the Chernobyl power plant are “normal” and condemned the weeks-long occupation by the Russian forces. International Atomic Energy Agency director-general Rafael Grossi told reporters Russia's weeks-long occupation of the site was "very, very dangerous", according to AFP. "The radiation level, I would say, is at normal. There have been some moments when the levels have gone up because of the movement of the heavy equipment that Russian forces were bringing here and when they left," Grossi added. The comments were made during the 36th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster, which occurred as the result of a flawed reactor design that was operated with inadequately trained personnel. Grossi was dispatched to Chernobyl Power Plant to help prevent the dangers of a nuclear accident amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. On Thursday, the UN agency said that the mission will “deliver vital equipment and conduct radiological and other assessments at the site”. The site of the world’s worst nuclear disaster, the Chornobyl Nuclear Power plant, was under Russian occupation for five weeks before they handed it over to Ukrainian troops. Watch | Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day: What happened in 1986? Moreover, there were reports of the Russian forces being exposed to radiation levels during their temporary control of the Chornobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine. Ukrainian defence ministry on April 1 had claimed that the Russian troops looted the power plant, taking "kettles, lab equipment, and radiation." Responding to the claims, the IAEA had said it is working to determine the veracity of reports that Russian soldiers received high doses of radiation.In the years since the disaster, thousands have died due to radiation-induced cancers and illnesses. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day: Radiation levels ‘normal’, says IAEA chief

Russian troops have handed back control of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant to Ukraine, according to a letter from Russia's nuclear power company, Rosatom, local media reported.

The troops had seized control of the Chernobyl site — where radioactive waste is still stored —on February 24, the first day of the invasion.

The letter is dated March 31 and was signed by Ukraine's nuclear regulator, Energoatom.

Earlier in the day, Energoatom said that many of the Russian forces occupying the Chernobyl nuclear plant had left and were headed for the Belarusian border, leaving just a few on the territory of the defunct plant.

"The occupiers, who seized the Chernobyl nuclear power plant and other facilities in the exclusion zone, have set off in two columns towards the Ukrainian border," it said in a statement, according to Reuters.

It said that Russian forces had also retreated from the nearby town of Slavutych, where Ukrainian workers at Chernobyl live.&nbsp;

Russian troops "marched in two columns towards the Ukrainian border with Belarus" and a "small number" of Russian forces remain in the station, it said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-forces-leaving-chernobyl-nuclear-site-have-been-infected-with-radiation-sickness-reports-467130">Russian forces leaving Chernobyl nuclear site hit by radiation: Reports</a>

"There is also evidence that a column of Russian soldiers who are besieging the town of Slavutych is currently being formed to move towards Belarus," it said.&nbsp;

Chernobyl's number four reactor exploded on April 26, 1986, causing the world's worst nuclear accident which killed hundreds and spread radioactive contamination west across Europe.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-president-putin-being-misled-by-fearful-military-advisers-us-says-467111" hreflang="en">Russia President Putin being misled by fearful military advisers, US says</a>

The site lies near the Belarus border.&nbsp;

In another development, the Russian defence ministry announced a local ceasefire on Thursday to allow civilians to be evacuated from Ukraine’s Mariupol port, which has been under siege for weeks, left without water, food and power.

Watch |&nbsp;Russians drove through 'Red Forest', Chernobyl workers report incident from last February

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(With inputs from agencies)

Russian troops have handed back control of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant to Ukraine, according to a letter from Russia's nuclear power company, Rosatom, local media reported.

Russian troops have handed back control of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant to Ukraine, according to a letter from Russia's nuclear power company, Rosatom, local media reported. The troops had seized control of the Chernobyl site — where radioactive waste is still stored —on February 24, the first day of the invasion. The letter is dated March 31 and was signed by Ukraine's nuclear regulator, Energoatom. Earlier in the day, Energoatom said that many of the Russian forces occupying the Chernobyl nuclear plant had left and were headed for the Belarusian border, leaving just a few on the territory of the defunct plant. "The occupiers, who seized the Chernobyl nuclear power plant and other facilities in the exclusion zone, have set off in two columns towards the Ukrainian border," it said in a statement, according to Reuters. It said that Russian forces had also retreated from the nearby town of Slavutych, where Ukrainian workers at Chernobyl live. Russian troops "marched in two columns towards the Ukrainian border with Belarus" and a "small number" of Russian forces remain in the station, it said. Also read | Russian forces leaving Chernobyl nuclear site hit by radiation: Reports "There is also evidence that a column of Russian soldiers who are besieging the town of Slavutych is currently being formed to move towards Belarus," it said. Chernobyl's number four reactor exploded on April 26, 1986, causing the world's worst nuclear accident which killed hundreds and spread radioactive contamination west across Europe. Also read | Russia President Putin being misled by fearful military advisers, US says The site lies near the Belarus border. In another development, the Russian defence ministry announced a local ceasefire on Thursday to allow civilians to be evacuated from Ukraine’s Mariupol port, which has been under siege for weeks, left without water, food and power. Watch | Russians drove through 'Red Forest', Chernobyl workers report incident from last February (With inputs from agencies)

Russian troops give back control of Chernobyl nuclear power plant to Ukraine: Report

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.

Dozens of Russian forces leaving the besieged Chernobyl nuclear power facility have been infected with radiation sickness and are being admitted across the border to a special facility in Belarus, several reports have claimed.

On Wednesday, a senior US defence official claimed that the Russia forces have been pulling out of the defunct nuclear facility in Ukraine after seizing control of the facility on February 24, reports AFP.

However, an employee at the Public Council at the State Agency of Ukraine for Exclusion Zone Management claimed that they were “running away irradiated”, reports UK-based tabloid newspaper The Sun.

He alleged that they were being transported by bus to a special radiation medical centre in Gomel to help treat their radioactive poisoning.

In a post on Facebook on Wednesday, Yaroslav <a name="_Hlk99633081">Yemelianenko </a>said,&nbsp;“Another batch of radiation irradiation of Russian terrorists who captured the Chernobyl zone, was brought to the Belarusian centre of radiation medicine in Gomel today.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-president-putin-being-misled-by-fearful-military-advisers-us-says-467111" hreflang="en">Russia President Putin being misled by fearful military advisers, US says</a>

According to UNIAN news agency, Russian troops allegedly dug trenches in the highly toxic Red Forest zone, which might have been the cause of their radiation sickness.

“Have you dug trenches in the Red Forest? Now live with it for the rest of your short life. There are rules for dealing with this area. They are mandatory because radiation is physics – it works without regard to status or shoulder straps. With minimal intelligence in command or soldiers, these consequences could have been avoided,” Yemelianenko said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-ukraine-preparing-for-new-russian-offensive-in-the-east-dismisses-russian-claims-of-scaleback-467037">Zelensky says Ukraine preparing for new Russian offensive in the east</a>

Staff at the site earlier said that the invading troops have been sent on a “suicide” mission, added that their vehicles and equipment had no anti-radiation protection.

Speaking to Reuters, one worker on duty, when the Russians seized control of the area, said the convoy had kicked up clouds of radioactive dust while driving through the highly toxic ‘Red Forest’, which got its name when dozens of square kilometres of pine trees turned red after absorbing radiation from the 1986 explosion.

Watch |&nbsp;Russians drove through 'Red Forest', Chernobyl workers report incident from last February

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(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. Dozens of Russian forces leaving the besieged Chernobyl nuclear power facility have been infected with radiation sickness and are being admitted across the border to a special facility in Belarus, several reports have claimed. On Wednesday, a senior US defence official claimed that the Russia forces have been pulling out of the defunct nuclear facility in Ukraine after seizing control of the facility on February 24, reports AFP. However, an employee at the Public Council at the State Agency of Ukraine for Exclusion Zone Management claimed that they were “running away irradiated”, reports UK-based tabloid newspaper The Sun. He alleged that they were being transported by bus to a special radiation medical centre in Gomel to help treat their radioactive poisoning. In a post on Facebook on Wednesday, Yaroslav Yemelianenko said, “Another batch of radiation irradiation of Russian terrorists who captured the Chernobyl zone, was brought to the Belarusian centre of radiation medicine in Gomel today.” Also read | Russia President Putin being misled by fearful military advisers, US says According to UNIAN news agency, Russian troops allegedly dug trenches in the highly toxic Red Forest zone, which might have been the cause of their radiation sickness. “Have you dug trenches in the Red Forest? Now live with it for the rest of your short life. There are rules for dealing with this area. They are mandatory because radiation is physics – it works without regard to status or shoulder straps. With minimal intelligence in command or soldiers, these consequences could have been avoided,” Yemelianenko said. Also read | Zelensky says Ukraine preparing for new Russian offensive in the east Staff at the site earlier said that the invading troops have been sent on a “suicide” mission, added that their vehicles and equipment had no anti-radiation protection. Speaking to Reuters, one worker on duty, when the Russians seized control of the area, said the convoy had kicked up clouds of radioactive dust while driving through the highly toxic ‘Red Forest’, which got its name when dozens of square kilometres of pine trees turned red after absorbing radiation from the 1986 explosion. Watch | Russians drove through 'Red Forest', Chernobyl workers report incident from last February (With inputs from agencies)

Russian forces leaving Chernobyl nuclear site hit by radiation sickness: Reports

More than one-fifth of the 44 million people who were living in Ukraine before Russia invaded the country last month have been internally displaced or have fled to other countries, according to U.N. estimates.

And for those who remain in the country, millions face a daily struggle for survival as cities hard hit by fighting run low on food, lack clean water, have no access to medical care and operate in many places without heat and electricity.

The United Nations’ International Organization for Migration said in a report this month that “over 12 million people are estimated to be stranded in affected areas or unable to leave due to heightened security risks, destruction of bridges and roads, as well as lack of resources or information on where to find safety and accommodation.”

On Friday, the United Nations completed its first convoy of urgent humanitarian aid to one hard-hit city in eastern Ukraine, delivering medical supplies, bottled water, ready-to-eat meals and canned food to help about 35,000 people in Sumy.

The speed at which the humanitarian crisis has unfolded is without precedent in modern European history, transforming what had been a peaceful nation into a nightmare of destruction and death in a matter of weeks. More than 3 million people have fled Ukraine since the Russian invasion began Feb. 24, and about 6.5 million have been forced from their homes by fighting, according to the IOM.

There is no reliable data on the full toll on civilian casualties. The United Nations said Friday that at least 816 Ukrainian civilians had died since the invasion began, including 59 children — figures that it says are probably a vast underestimate.

Efforts to evacuate hundreds of thousands of people from cities across eastern and southern Ukraine continued to be undermined Saturday by intense fighting and cease-fire violations.

“More than 9,000 people were evacuated from the besieged Mariupol,” President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine said in his overnight address to the nation. “In total, more than 180,000 Ukrainians have been rescued by the humanitarian corridors.”

But that represents just a fraction of the millions still thought to be trapped by fighting and in urgent need of relief or escape. Zelenskyy accused Russian forces of deliberately blocking humanitarian aid to besieged cities.

More than one-fifth of the 44 million people who were living in Ukraine before Russia invaded the country last month have been internally displaced or have fled to other countries, according to U.

More than one-fifth of the 44 million people who were living in Ukraine before Russia invaded the country last month have been internally displaced or have fled to other countries, according to U.N. estimates. And for those who remain in the country, millions face a daily struggle for survival as cities hard hit by fighting run low on food, lack clean water, have no access to medical care and operate in many places without heat and electricity. The United Nations’ International Organization for Migration said in a report this month that “over 12 million people are estimated to be stranded in affected areas or unable to leave due to heightened security risks, destruction of bridges and roads, as well as lack of resources or information on where to find safety and accommodation.” On Friday, the United Nations completed its first convoy of urgent humanitarian aid to one hard-hit city in eastern Ukraine, delivering medical supplies, bottled water, ready-to-eat meals and canned food to help about 35,000 people in Sumy. The speed at which the humanitarian crisis has unfolded is without precedent in modern European history, transforming what had been a peaceful nation into a nightmare of destruction and death in a matter of weeks. More than 3 million people have fled Ukraine since the Russian invasion began Feb. 24, and about 6.5 million have been forced from their homes by fighting, according to the IOM. There is no reliable data on the full toll on civilian casualties. The United Nations said Friday that at least 816 Ukrainian civilians had died since the invasion began, including 59 children — figures that it says are probably a vast underestimate. Efforts to evacuate hundreds of thousands of people from cities across eastern and southern Ukraine continued to be undermined Saturday by intense fighting and cease-fire violations. “More than 9,000 people were evacuated from the besieged Mariupol,” President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine said in his overnight address to the nation. “In total, more than 180,000 Ukrainians have been rescued by the humanitarian corridors.” But that represents just a fraction of the millions still thought to be trapped by fighting and in urgent need of relief or escape. Zelenskyy accused Russian forces of deliberately blocking humanitarian aid to besieged cities.

As Russia targets civilians, 1 in 5 Ukrainians have fled their homes

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;

After laying siege to southern port city Mariupol, Russian forces are reportedly heading towards the capital Kyiv city even as Ukrainian officials have said that they are “ready to fight”.

On early Saturday morning, air raid sirens and shellings were heard over Kyiv and other major Ukrainian cities, local media reported, amid warnings from western defence officials that the Russians were beginning to gain ground around the capital.

According to the Guardian, loud explosions were reportedly heard in Dnipro in the country’s east on Saturday, as well as in Mykolaiv, Nikolaev and Kropyvnytskyi.

The situation is grim in Mariupol, where repeated shellings have thwarted attempts to bring in food and water and to evacuate trapped civilians.

The city's mayor says it is being shelled “every 30 minutes”, with 1,200 civilians already dead and reports of people starving and of corpses in the streets.

The port city has also been without water and power for 11 days.&nbsp;While Kharkiv – Ukraine’s second-largest city – continues to be blockaded by Russian forces.

In eastern Ukraine, heavy fighting between Ukrainian troops and separatist forces supported by Russia is taking place, local&nbsp;media reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/youtube-blocks-russian-state-funded-media-channels-worldwide-461577" hreflang="en">YouTube blocks Russian state-funded media channels worldwide</a>

Residential buildings and streets have been destroyed by artillery fire as separatist forces captured the town.

Whereas in western Ukraine near the Polish border, the military airfields of Lutsk and Ivano-Frankivsk have been “put out of action”,&nbsp;Russia announced&nbsp;on Friday.

With the Russian assault entering its third week, President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that Ukraine had “already reached a strategic turning point”.

“It is impossible to say how many days we still have (ahead of us) to free Ukrainian land. But we can say we will do it,” he said. "We are already moving towards our goal, our victory."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-legalises-piracy-allows-patent-thefts-to-counter-west-sanctions-report-461502" hreflang="en">Russia legalises piracy, allows patent thefts to counter West sanctions: Report</a>

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has announced that around 12,000 US troops have been moved along the borders with Russia such as Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania and Romania, even as he ruled out sending forces to Ukraine.

Addressing members of the House Democratic Caucus on Friday, Biden stressed over "not fighting a third World War in Ukraine" but avowed sending an "unmistakable message that we will defend every inch of territory".

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: Russian Soldiers in firing position near Kyiv

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-invasion-russian-soldiers-in-firing-position-near-kyiv-461447/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(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. After laying siege to southern port city Mariupol, Russian forces are reportedly heading towards the capital Kyiv city even as Ukrainian officials have said that they are “ready to fight”. On early Saturday morning, air raid sirens and shellings were heard over Kyiv and other major Ukrainian cities, local media reported, amid warnings from western defence officials that the Russians were beginning to gain ground around the capital. According to the Guardian, loud explosions were reportedly heard in Dnipro in the country’s east on Saturday, as well as in Mykolaiv, Nikolaev and Kropyvnytskyi. The situation is grim in Mariupol, where repeated shellings have thwarted attempts to bring in food and water and to evacuate trapped civilians. The city's mayor says it is being shelled “every 30 minutes”, with 1,200 civilians already dead and reports of people starving and of corpses in the streets. The port city has also been without water and power for 11 days. While Kharkiv – Ukraine’s second-largest city – continues to be blockaded by Russian forces. In eastern Ukraine, heavy fighting between Ukrainian troops and separatist forces supported by Russia is taking place, local media reported. Also read | YouTube blocks Russian state-funded media channels worldwide Residential buildings and streets have been destroyed by artillery fire as separatist forces captured the town. Whereas in western Ukraine near the Polish border, the military airfields of Lutsk and Ivano-Frankivsk have been “put out of action”, Russia announced on Friday. With the Russian assault entering its third week, President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that Ukraine had “already reached a strategic turning point”. “It is impossible to say how many days we still have (ahead of us) to free Ukrainian land. But we can say we will do it,” he said. "We are already moving towards our goal, our victory." Also read | Russia legalises piracy, allows patent thefts to counter West sanctions: Report Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has announced that around 12,000 US troops have been moved along the borders with Russia such as Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania and Romania, even as he ruled out sending forces to Ukraine. Addressing members of the House Democratic Caucus on Friday, Biden stressed over "not fighting a third World War in Ukraine" but avowed sending an "unmistakable message that we will defend every inch of territory". Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: Russian Soldiers in firing position near Kyiv (With inputs from agencies)

Russian forces close in on Kyiv as air raid sirens heard across other cities: Report

As the war between Russia and Ukraine triggers mass exodus, foreign students, especially Indians and Africans, attempting to cross over to Poland have claimed that they are facing racial abuse by the Ukrainian security forces at the border.

Several videos have emerged on social media purportedly showing people of African and Indian origin being blocked from boarding trains or being left stranded at Ukrainian stations.

Both BBC and CNN have also reported that foreign students are being subjected to racial segregation at border checkpoints.

One African medical student told CNN that she and other foreigners were ordered off the public transit bus at a checkpoint between Ukraine and Poland border.

They were told to stand aside as the bus drove off with only Ukrainian nationals on board, she says.

One Nigerian&nbsp;student&nbsp;told the&nbsp;BBC&nbsp;that an official told her “if you are Black, you should walk.” She had made it into Hungary and was trying to get a ticket home to Nigeria as quickly as possible. “If your skin is dark, you’re at a disadvantage,” she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The official visuals of Ukrainians blocking Africans from getting on trains. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AfricansinUkraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AfricansinUkraine</a> <a href="https://t.co/hJYpM3LY0A">pic.twitter.com/hJYpM3LY0A</a>
— Damilare / ViF (@Damilare_arah) <a href="https://twitter.com/Damilare_arah/status/1497654141350522880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Sharing her ordeal, Saakshi Ijantkar, a fourth-year medical student from India, from Lviv told CNN, “There are three checkposts we need to go through to get to the border. A lot of people are stranded there. They don't allow Indians to go through.”

The 22-year-old further claimed that only 30 Indians are being allowed to get in after 500 Ukrainians.

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The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukrainian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukrainian</a> police has come down on brutality against Africans, Blacks &amp; People of color, trapped in Ukraine. 
 
African Blacks R being beaten up badly on the Romanian border. 
 
But west media is Supporting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> &amp; keep quiet. Why??<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/racism?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#racism</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BlackLivesMatter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BlackLivesMatter</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SupportRussia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SupportRussia</a> <a href="https://t.co/LfGXaI0GzD">pic.twitter.com/LfGXaI0GzD</a>
— Rudhrashki Pande (@RudrakshiFarhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/RudrakshiFarhan/status/1498201752738222080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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“To get to this border you need to walk 4 to 5 kilometres from the first checkpoint to the second one. Ukrainians are given taxis and buses to travel, all other nationalities have to walk. They were very racist to Indians and other nationalities,'" CNN quoted Ijantkar as saying.

She added that she witnessed violence from the guards to the students waiting at the Ukrainian side of the Shehyni-Medyka border.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the war between Russia and Ukraine triggers mass exodus, foreign students, especially Indians and Africans, attempting to cross over to Poland have claimed that they are facing racial abuse by the Ukrainian security forces at the border.

As the war between Russia and Ukraine triggers mass exodus, foreign students, especially Indians and Africans, attempting to cross over to Poland have claimed that they are facing racial abuse by the Ukrainian security forces at the border. Several videos have emerged on social media purportedly showing people of African and Indian origin being blocked from boarding trains or being left stranded at Ukrainian stations. Both BBC and CNN have also reported that foreign students are being subjected to racial segregation at border checkpoints. One African medical student told CNN that she and other foreigners were ordered off the public transit bus at a checkpoint between Ukraine and Poland border. They were told to stand aside as the bus drove off with only Ukrainian nationals on board, she says. One Nigerian student told the BBC that an official told her “if you are Black, you should walk.” She had made it into Hungary and was trying to get a ticket home to Nigeria as quickly as possible. “If your skin is dark, you’re at a disadvantage,” she said. The official visuals of Ukrainians blocking Africans from getting on trains. #AfricansinUkraine pic.twitter.com/hJYpM3LY0A — Damilare / ViF (@Damilare_arah) February 26, 2022 × Sharing her ordeal, Saakshi Ijantkar, a fourth-year medical student from India, from Lviv told CNN, “There are three checkposts we need to go through to get to the border. A lot of people are stranded there. They don't allow Indians to go through.” The 22-year-old further claimed that only 30 Indians are being allowed to get in after 500 Ukrainians. The #Ukrainian police has come down on brutality against Africans, Blacks & People of color, trapped in Ukraine. African Blacks R being beaten up badly on the Romanian border. But west media is Supporting #Ukraine & keep quiet. Why??#racism #BlackLivesMatter #SupportRussia pic.twitter.com/LfGXaI0GzD — Rudhrashki Pande (@RudrakshiFarhan) February 28, 2022 × “To get to this border you need to walk 4 to 5 kilometres from the first checkpoint to the second one. Ukrainians are given taxis and buses to travel, all other nationalities have to walk. They were very racist to Indians and other nationalities,'" CNN quoted Ijantkar as saying. She added that she witnessed violence from the guards to the students waiting at the Ukrainian side of the Shehyni-Medyka border. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian, African students allege racism at Ukrainian border

A Chinese state broadcaster reportedly censored a major part of a Paralympic official's speech at the opening ceremonies of the 2022 Beijing Winter Paralympic Games during which he called for peace amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

According to CNN, International Paralympic Committee (IPC) president Andrew Parsons’ speech was not translated and the volume of his speech was lowered by CCTV when he was on the podium giving remarks on Friday.

Parsons, a Brazilian, said that he was "horrified" with the events taking place in the world at the moment.&nbsp;

“Tonight, I want to begin with a message of peace. As the leader of an organization with inclusion at its core, where diversity is celebrated and differences embraced, I am horrified at what is taking place in the world right now,” Parsons said, likely in reference to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyber-armageddon-in-europe-thousands-go-offline-following-russia-ukraine-war-says-report-459113">Cyberattack: Thousands in Europe go offline after Russia-Ukraine war</a>

“The 21st century is a time for dialogue and diplomacy, not war and hate,” he added.&nbsp;

The committee's president went on to explain that the Olympic truce during both the Olympic and Paralympic games is recognised by the U.N. by over 100 countries. This truce, he said, "must be respected."

The US-based news outlet also claimed that the scenes of Parsons cheering for the Ukrainian delegations was censored and replaced with a wide shot of the stadium by the state broadcaster.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-clears-law-against-fake-news-on-army-bbc-cnn-others-suspend-operations-459126" hreflang="en">Putin clears law against ‘fake news’; BBC, CNN, others suspend operations</a>

This comes after Western intelligence reports claimed that the Chinese officials asked Russia to delay the invasion of Ukraine till the Winter Olympics ends.

It is being claimed that the request was made when Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Beijing for the opening ceremony of the Winter Games.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Chinese state broadcaster reportedly censored a major part of a Paralympic official's speech at the opening ceremonies of the 2022 Beijing Winter Paralympic Games during which he called for peace amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

A Chinese state broadcaster reportedly censored a major part of a Paralympic official's speech at the opening ceremonies of the 2022 Beijing Winter Paralympic Games during which he called for peace amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. According to CNN, International Paralympic Committee (IPC) president Andrew Parsons’ speech was not translated and the volume of his speech was lowered by CCTV when he was on the podium giving remarks on Friday. Parsons, a Brazilian, said that he was "horrified" with the events taking place in the world at the moment. “Tonight, I want to begin with a message of peace. As the leader of an organization with inclusion at its core, where diversity is celebrated and differences embraced, I am horrified at what is taking place in the world right now,” Parsons said, likely in reference to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Also read | Cyberattack: Thousands in Europe go offline after Russia-Ukraine war “The 21st century is a time for dialogue and diplomacy, not war and hate,” he added. The committee's president went on to explain that the Olympic truce during both the Olympic and Paralympic games is recognised by the U.N. by over 100 countries. This truce, he said, "must be respected." The US-based news outlet also claimed that the scenes of Parsons cheering for the Ukrainian delegations was censored and replaced with a wide shot of the stadium by the state broadcaster. Also read | Putin clears law against ‘fake news’; BBC, CNN, others suspend operations This comes after Western intelligence reports claimed that the Chinese officials asked Russia to delay the invasion of Ukraine till the Winter Olympics ends. It is being claimed that the request was made when Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Beijing for the opening ceremony of the Winter Games. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war: Chinese broadcaster 'censors' call for peace at Paralympic Games opening ceremony

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has been making the headlines with each passing day. The crisis situation can now also impact sporting activities in the coming days as the UEFA is considering to shift the venue of the Champions League final from St Petersburg in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

While nothing is confirmed as of now, the UEFA is constantly and closely monitoring the situation with each passing day.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/sports/ralf-rangnicks-appointment-as-manchester-united-interim-coach-a-bit-strange-says-fred-455646">Ralf Rangnick's appointment as Manchester United interim coach 'a bit strange', says Fred</a>

"With regard to the 2022 UEFA Champions League final in Saint Petersburg, we would like to inform you that UEFA is constantly and closely monitoring the situation and any decision would be made in due course if necessary," UEFA said in a statement.&nbsp;

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson joined calls for Russia to be barred from&nbsp;hosting&nbsp;the marquee final, which is scheduled to take place on May 28 in St Petersburg &nbsp;Gazprom Arena.&nbsp;"I think it inconceivable that major international football tournaments can take place in Russia after... the invasion of a sovereign country," said Johnson in parliament.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-kai-havertz-christian-pulisic-star-as-chelsea-beat-lille-2-0-455593">Champions League: Kai Havertz, Christian Pulisic star as Chelsea beat Lille 2-0</a>

For the unversed, the UCL final has been moved away from its original host city in the last two years -- due to the Covid-19 crisis. In the recent matches in the UCL,&nbsp;Benfica-Ajax played out a 2-2 draw whereas the Manchester United-Atletico Madrid tie resulted in a 1-1 stalemate.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has been making the headlines with each passing day. The crisis situation can now also impact sporting activities in the coming days as the UEFA is considering to shift the venue of the Champions League final from St Petersburg in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has been making the headlines with each passing day. The crisis situation can now also impact sporting activities in the coming days as the UEFA is considering to shift the venue of the Champions League final from St Petersburg in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. While nothing is confirmed as of now, the UEFA is constantly and closely monitoring the situation with each passing day. ALSO READ | Ralf Rangnick's appointment as Manchester United interim coach 'a bit strange', says Fred "With regard to the 2022 UEFA Champions League final in Saint Petersburg, we would like to inform you that UEFA is constantly and closely monitoring the situation and any decision would be made in due course if necessary," UEFA said in a statement. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson joined calls for Russia to be barred from hosting the marquee final, which is scheduled to take place on May 28 in St Petersburg Gazprom Arena. "I think it inconceivable that major international football tournaments can take place in Russia after... the invasion of a sovereign country," said Johnson in parliament. ALSO READ | Champions League: Kai Havertz, Christian Pulisic star as Chelsea beat Lille 2-0 For the unversed, the UCL final has been moved away from its original host city in the last two years -- due to the Covid-19 crisis. In the recent matches in the UCL, Benfica-Ajax played out a 2-2 draw whereas the Manchester United-Atletico Madrid tie resulted in a 1-1 stalemate.

UEFA likely to move Champions League final from St. Petersburg due to Russia-Ukraine crisis - Reports

Cardi B, who is known to speak her mind on issues, has now shared her thoughts on the escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp; 
 
The Grammy award-winning rapper has criticised world leaders for focussing on the wrong issues. The rapper spoke on the issued when a fan asked her what she "thinks about this whole Russia thing." 
 
Cardi responded to the user saying, "Wish these world leaders stop tripping about power and really think about who's really getting affected (citizens) besides the whole world is in a crisis. War, sanctions, invasions should be the last thing these leaders should worry about."

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Wish these world leaders stop tripping about power and really think about whose really getting affected (citizens) besides the whole world is in a crisis.War,sanctions,invasions should be the last thing these leaders should worry about. <a href="https://t.co/25qemEtzF9">https://t.co/25qemEtzF9</a>
— Cardi B (@iamcardib) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamcardib/status/1496001115355242497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"When another fan tweeted in response that they thought it wasn't the rapper behind the message, Cardi clarified things with a video. "This phone is not hacked, it's really me!" she declared in the nearly minute-long clip shared on Twitter.

She added, "I actually want to say a lot of things, but I'm just gonna mind my business because sometimes, I feel like I have such a big platform that if I don't say the right things, I might get killed."

The Grammy-winner further said, "I'm really not on NATO's side, I'm really not on the Russian side, I'm actually in the citizens' side, because at the end of the day, the world is having a crisis right now."

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It’s me <a href="https://t.co/jZaSrUwMWH">https://t.co/jZaSrUwMWH</a> <a href="https://t.co/4QQ8hKygMw">pic.twitter.com/4QQ8hKygMw</a>
— Cardi B (@iamcardib) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamcardib/status/1496004449185439746?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"This inflation not only in America, but everywhere in the world! It's really hard to get the economy back up. There is so much shipments and embarkments backed up, China's not really messing with us, so a lot of things are behind, a lot of goods are behind, and this s-t just made it a lot more complicated, so I`m just really annoyed by this," she added. 
 
She concluded, "And I really wish all world leaders right now, just really come to the logical conclusion, but whatever." &nbsp; 
 
This isn't Cardi's first time publicly speaking out about politics. In fact, the rapper used to be extremely vocal about them on social media before she suddenly stopped.&nbsp; 
 
Meanwhile, tensions have grown recently in Ukraine after a possible chance of an invasion from Russia.&nbsp; 
 
The situation is adverse in the region as the Russian President on Monday decided to recognise Ukraine's breakaway regions - Donetsk and Luhansk - as independent entities. 
 
Many of the Western nations already have imposed sanctions on Russia as a result of the latest move while NATO alliance has also beefed up military might overseeing the adverse situation.

Cardi B, who is known to speak her mind on issues, has now shared her thoughts on the escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine. The Grammy award-winning rapper has criticised world leaders for focussing on the wrong issues.

Cardi B, who is known to speak her mind on issues, has now shared her thoughts on the escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine. The Grammy award-winning rapper has criticised world leaders for focussing on the wrong issues. The rapper spoke on the issued when a fan asked her what she "thinks about this whole Russia thing." Cardi responded to the user saying, "Wish these world leaders stop tripping about power and really think about who's really getting affected (citizens) besides the whole world is in a crisis. War, sanctions, invasions should be the last thing these leaders should worry about." Wish these world leaders stop tripping about power and really think about whose really getting affected (citizens) besides the whole world is in a crisis.War,sanctions,invasions should be the last thing these leaders should worry about. https://t.co/25qemEtzF9 — Cardi B (@iamcardib) February 22, 2022 × "When another fan tweeted in response that they thought it wasn't the rapper behind the message, Cardi clarified things with a video. "This phone is not hacked, it's really me!" she declared in the nearly minute-long clip shared on Twitter. She added, "I actually want to say a lot of things, but I'm just gonna mind my business because sometimes, I feel like I have such a big platform that if I don't say the right things, I might get killed." The Grammy-winner further said, "I'm really not on NATO's side, I'm really not on the Russian side, I'm actually in the citizens' side, because at the end of the day, the world is having a crisis right now." It’s me https://t.co/jZaSrUwMWH pic.twitter.com/4QQ8hKygMw — Cardi B (@iamcardib) February 22, 2022 × "This inflation not only in America, but everywhere in the world! It's really hard to get the economy back up. There is so much shipments and embarkments backed up, China's not really messing with us, so a lot of things are behind, a lot of goods are behind, and this s-t just made it a lot more complicated, so I`m just really annoyed by this," she added. She concluded, "And I really wish all world leaders right now, just really come to the logical conclusion, but whatever." This isn't Cardi's first time publicly speaking out about politics. In fact, the rapper used to be extremely vocal about them on social media before she suddenly stopped. Meanwhile, tensions have grown recently in Ukraine after a possible chance of an invasion from Russia. The situation is adverse in the region as the Russian President on Monday decided to recognise Ukraine's breakaway regions - Donetsk and Luhansk - as independent entities. Many of the Western nations already have imposed sanctions on Russia as a result of the latest move while NATO alliance has also beefed up military might overseeing the adverse situation.

Cardi B weighs in on Russia-Ukraine crisis: Not on NATO or Russian side

What 'The Simpsons' think today, the world thinks tomorrow. The show seems to have predicted the current Ukraine-Russia crisis way back in 1998.&nbsp; 
 
In one of its episodes, the show had predicted the return of the Soviet Union and the emergence of Cold War once again.&nbsp; 
 
A clip from the popular series is being widely shared on social media that shows how the West attempts to find a solution to stop an 'all-out war'. The clip is from an old episode of 'Simpsons Tide' which reportedly aired in March 1998, at a time when Boris Yeltsin was the President of the Russian Federation.&nbsp; 
 
The episode shows Homer Simpsons joining the Navy and how he gets into a shooting match with a Russian submarine.&nbsp; 
 
The clip that is going viral on social media shows Russian ambassador to the UN revealing the collapse of the Soviet Union and was just the deceive the US. The clip also hilarious brings back Lenin to life who breaks out of his glass coffin saying 'must crush capitalism'.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-astroworld-tragedy-did-the-simpsons-know-all-along-about-travis-scotts-concert-mishap-428968" hreflang="en">Astroworld tragedy: Did 'The Simpsons' know all along about Travis Scott's concert mishap?</a> 
 
Twitter shared the clip widely and pointed out that the current situation in Ukraine was first called by 'The Simpsons'.

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Simpsons called it… <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SovietUnion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SovietUnion</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Putin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Putin</a> <a href="https://t.co/9OQ9nSpiGF">pic.twitter.com/9OQ9nSpiGF</a>
— Matthew Walton (@Waltonamo) <a href="https://twitter.com/Waltonamo/status/1495941191409491968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The Simpsons have an auror trapped in a basement somewhere
— Alegna (@cloppyhorse) <a href="https://twitter.com/cloppyhorse/status/1496151808296816651?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The Simpsons predicted the 
Crisis of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Putin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Putin</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a>,<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Donetsk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Donetsk</a> and<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Luhansk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Luhansk</a> way before it was cool 🤯😆<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaUkraineCrisis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaUkraineCrisis</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraina?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraina</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ukrainerussia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ukrainerussia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USA</a> <a href="https://t.co/Hqd2icRj6w">pic.twitter.com/Hqd2icRj6w</a>
— Genius Manushya (@GeniusManushya) <a href="https://twitter.com/GeniusManushya/status/1496003007313772547?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The Simpsons did it again. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russland</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Putin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Putin</a> <a href="https://t.co/W1yzODChnm">pic.twitter.com/W1yzODChnm</a>
— sidv69lpz 💉💉💉3/3 (@sidv69lpz) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidv69lpz/status/1495844528120545285?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Did Russia/Soviet Union promise the Ukraine their safety in 1991? Yes. 
Did the Simpsons predict this? 
Yep :)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaUkraineConflict?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaUkraineConflict</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaUkraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaUkraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/simpsons?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#simpsons</a> <a href="https://t.co/qFy8IZUhlh">https://t.co/qFy8IZUhlh</a>
— Kevin Ryder (@thekevinryder) <a href="https://twitter.com/thekevinryder/status/1496293612778364931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In recent weeks, the US has accused President Vladimir Putin of amassing more than 150,000 troops near Ukraine's borders in preparation for what many fear to be a proper invasion.&nbsp; 
 
US President Joe Biden imposed fresh sanctions on Russia while declaring that invasion of Ukraine had begun as Russian lawmakers gave Putin approval to deploy "peacekeepers" in two Ukrainian regions. 
 
Russia has repeatedly denied plans for such an attack but says it has a duty to protect people living in the two breakaway regions.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/the-simpsons-had-predicted-kamala-harris-inaugural-purple-outfit-21-years-ago-heres-proof-358554" hreflang="en">'The Simpsons' had predicted Kamala Harris' inaugural purple outfit 21 years ago. Here's proof</a>

 
Putin on Monday had declared that Russia will recognise Donetsk and Lugansk situated in eastern Ukraine as separate republics while declaring that the Minsk peace agreements on Ukraine's conflict no longer existed. 
 
This isn't the first time that 'The Simpsons' have predicted the future. From Astroworld stampede to Kamala Harris' swearing into the US office as the Vice President to the US Capitol riots- the predictions made on the show have come true in the recent past.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-not-again-simpsons-had-predicted-the-matrix-resurrections-christmas-release-15-years-ago-439614" hreflang="en">Not again! Simpsons had predicted 'The Matrix Resurrections' Christmas release 15 years ago</a>

What 'The Simpsons' think today, the world thinks tomorrow. The show seems to have predicted the current Ukraine-Russia crisis way back in 1998. In one of its episodes, the show had predicted the return of the Soviet Union and the emergence of Cold War once again.

What 'The Simpsons' think today, the world thinks tomorrow. The show seems to have predicted the current Ukraine-Russia crisis way back in 1998. In one of its episodes, the show had predicted the return of the Soviet Union and the emergence of Cold War once again. A clip from the popular series is being widely shared on social media that shows how the West attempts to find a solution to stop an 'all-out war'. The clip is from an old episode of 'Simpsons Tide' which reportedly aired in March 1998, at a time when Boris Yeltsin was the President of the Russian Federation. The episode shows Homer Simpsons joining the Navy and how he gets into a shooting match with a Russian submarine. The clip that is going viral on social media shows Russian ambassador to the UN revealing the collapse of the Soviet Union and was just the deceive the US. The clip also hilarious brings back Lenin to life who breaks out of his glass coffin saying 'must crush capitalism'. Astroworld tragedy: Did 'The Simpsons' know all along about Travis Scott's concert mishap? Twitter shared the clip widely and pointed out that the current situation in Ukraine was first called by 'The Simpsons'. Simpsons called it… #Russia #SovietUnion #Putin pic.twitter.com/9OQ9nSpiGF — Matthew Walton (@Waltonamo) February 22, 2022 × The Simpsons have an auror trapped in a basement somewhere — Alegna (@cloppyhorse) February 22, 2022 × The Simpsons predicted the Crisis of #Putin, #Russia,#Ukraine and #Donetsk and#Luhansk way before it was cool 🤯😆#RussiaUkraineCrisis#Ukraina #ukrainerussia #USA pic.twitter.com/Hqd2icRj6w — Genius Manushya (@GeniusManushya) February 22, 2022 × The Simpsons did it again. #Russia #Russland #Ukraine #Putin pic.twitter.com/W1yzODChnm — sidv69lpz 💉💉💉3/3 (@sidv69lpz) February 21, 2022 × Did Russia/Soviet Union promise the Ukraine their safety in 1991? Yes. Did the Simpsons predict this? Yep :)#RussiaUkraineConflict #RussiaUkraine #simpsons https://t.co/qFy8IZUhlh — Kevin Ryder (@thekevinryder) February 23, 2022 × In recent weeks, the US has accused President Vladimir Putin of amassing more than 150,000 troops near Ukraine's borders in preparation for what many fear to be a proper invasion. US President Joe Biden imposed fresh sanctions on Russia while declaring that invasion of Ukraine had begun as Russian lawmakers gave Putin approval to deploy "peacekeepers" in two Ukrainian regions. Russia has repeatedly denied plans for such an attack but says it has a duty to protect people living in the two breakaway regions. 'The Simpsons' had predicted Kamala Harris' inaugural purple outfit 21 years ago. Here's proof Putin on Monday had declared that Russia will recognise Donetsk and Lugansk situated in eastern Ukraine as separate republics while declaring that the Minsk peace agreements on Ukraine's conflict no longer existed. This isn't the first time that 'The Simpsons' have predicted the future. From Astroworld stampede to Kamala Harris' swearing into the US office as the Vice President to the US Capitol riots- the predictions made on the show have come true in the recent past. Not again! Simpsons had predicted 'The Matrix Resurrections' Christmas release 15 years ago

The Simpsons had predicted the Russia-Ukraine crisis way back in 1998.Here's proof