Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that the country is switching to emergency shutdowns to stabilise its power grid after fresh Russian missile attacks. Now the questions is, How far are the two sides from negotiations?

Russia-Ukraine War: How far are the two sides from negotiations?

Hours after the US President Joe Biden said that he is prepared to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin if the latter is looking "for a way to end the war", Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that Europe should go back to its pre-war "peace order" with Russia. By pre-war period, Scholz referred to the period before February 2020 when Russia had not launched its 'special military operations' against Ukraine.&nbsp;

Scholz said that Europe should resolve "all questions of common security" with Russia.

"What Russia is doing today is going back to the imperialistic&nbsp;approach of the 19th, 18th, 17th century where just a stronger country thinks it could just take the territory of the neighbour, understanding neighbours as just hinterland, and some place they can give rules to be followed. And this can never be accepted," Scholz said during a panel discussion at the Berlin Security Conference.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/macron-biden-pledge-to-hold-russia-accountable-for-war-crimes-539267">Macron, Biden pledge to hold Russia accountable for 'war crimes'</a>

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He continued: "We have to go back to the agreements which we had in the last decades and which were the basis for peace and security order in Europe."

Earlier, the US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron presented a united front on Ukraine with Biden saying he would talk to Russian President Vladimir Putin if he is willing to end the war and only in consultation with NATO allies. “I’m prepared to speak with Mr&nbsp;Putin, if in fact there is an interest in him deciding he’s looking for a way to end the war. He hasn’t done that yet,” Biden told a news conference at the White House with Macron on Thursday.

Macron said he would continue to talk to Putin to “try to prevent escalation and to get some very concrete results” such as the safety of nuclear plants.

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Hours after the US President Joe Biden said that he is prepared to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin if the latter is looking "for a way to end the war", Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that Europe should go back to its pre-war "peace order" with Russia.

Hours after the US President Joe Biden said that he is prepared to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin if the latter is looking "for a way to end the war", Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that Europe should go back to its pre-war "peace order" with Russia. By pre-war period, Scholz referred to the period before February 2020 when Russia had not launched its 'special military operations' against Ukraine. Scholz said that Europe should resolve "all questions of common security" with Russia. "What Russia is doing today is going back to the imperialistic approach of the 19th, 18th, 17th century where just a stronger country thinks it could just take the territory of the neighbour, understanding neighbours as just hinterland, and some place they can give rules to be followed. And this can never be accepted," Scholz said during a panel discussion at the Berlin Security Conference. WATCH | Macron, Biden pledge to hold Russia accountable for 'war crimes' × He continued: "We have to go back to the agreements which we had in the last decades and which were the basis for peace and security order in Europe." Earlier, the US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron presented a united front on Ukraine with Biden saying he would talk to Russian President Vladimir Putin if he is willing to end the war and only in consultation with NATO allies. “I’m prepared to speak with Mr Putin, if in fact there is an interest in him deciding he’s looking for a way to end the war. He hasn’t done that yet,” Biden told a news conference at the White House with Macron on Thursday. Macron said he would continue to talk to Putin to “try to prevent escalation and to get some very concrete results” such as the safety of nuclear plants. 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.

Scholz calls for resolution of ‘all questions of common security’ with Russia to ensure pre-war ‘peace order’

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&nbsp;and&nbsp;videos.

Mykhailo Podolyak, a senior military adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that up to 13,000 Ukrainian soldiers have died since the start of Moscow's special military operation.

He told Ukrainian TV media outlet Channel 24 that Kyiv is now openly talking about the numbers of the killed. Podolyak said, "We have official evaluations by the General Staff, official evaluations by the commander-in-chief [Mr Zelensky], and they range from 10,000 to 12,500-13,000 killed."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/emmanuel-macron-calls-for-us-france-to-be-brothers-in-arms-during-white-house-visit-539216">Also read |&nbsp;Macron, Biden pledge to hold Russia accountable for committing 'war crimes' in Ukraine</a>

He added that the number of civilians killed could be "significant."

It's rare for Ukraine to reveal casualty figures. The numbers given by Podolyak have not been confirmed, BBC reported.&nbsp;

In June, he claimed that nearly 100 to 200 Ukraine's soldiers died every day.&nbsp;

Earlier, the EU Commission head Ursula Von der Leyen had during a video address on Wednesday (Nov 30) claimed that 100,000 Ukrainian troops had been killed. However, EU later clarified that the figures referred to both killed and wounded. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-ukrainian-diplomatic-missions-receive-threatening-letters-soaked-in-red-liquid-539248">Also read |&nbsp;Three Ukrainian diplomatic missions receive threatening letters soaked in red liquid</a>

Moscow's special military operation began on February 24, which till now has claimed the lives of 20,000 Ukrainian civilians, Leyen had claimed.

The Russian invasion has reached its ninth month and world leaders are still in talks to find ways to stop it.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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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. Mykhailo Podolyak, a senior military adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that up to 13,000 Ukrainian soldiers have died since the start of Moscow's special military operation. He told Ukrainian TV media outlet Channel 24 that Kyiv is now openly talking about the numbers of the killed. Podolyak said, "We have official evaluations by the General Staff, official evaluations by the commander-in-chief [Mr Zelensky], and they range from 10,000 to 12,500-13,000 killed." Also read | Macron, Biden pledge to hold Russia accountable for committing 'war crimes' in Ukraine He added that the number of civilians killed could be "significant." It's rare for Ukraine to reveal casualty figures. The numbers given by Podolyak have not been confirmed, BBC reported. In June, he claimed that nearly 100 to 200 Ukraine's soldiers died every day. Earlier, the EU Commission head Ursula Von der Leyen had during a video address on Wednesday (Nov 30) claimed that 100,000 Ukrainian troops had been killed. However, EU later clarified that the figures referred to both killed and wounded. Also read | Three Ukrainian diplomatic missions receive threatening letters soaked in red liquid Moscow's special military operation began on February 24, which till now has claimed the lives of 20,000 Ukrainian civilians, Leyen had claimed. The Russian invasion has reached its ninth month and world leaders are still in talks to find ways to stop it. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia-Ukraine war: Up to 13,000 Ukrainian soldiers killed since invasion, claims Zelensky's adviser 

As Russian missile strikes continue to damage energy infrastructure across Ukraine, with rising concerns that the winter season will be difficult for the people who are living in war-hit zones. The West has claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin wants "to use winter as a weapon of war" in the ongoing war in Ukraine, which led to massive food and fuel crisis globally.

NATO accuses Putin of using cold as 'weapon of war'

In a surprise move,the United States which has not fallen short of its support for Ukraine even once has called out Kyiv for alleged war crimes. Washington has further said that laws of war apply to all parties equally.

Russia-Ukraine War: Laws of war apply to all parties equally, says Washington

Ukrainian residents welcomed troops arriving in the center of Kherson on Friday after Russia abandoned the only regional capital it had captured. Watch the full video to know more

Russia-Ukraine War: Locals welcome Ukraine soldiers in Kherson

"Kherson is ours," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday (November 11) after Russia announced its completion of retreat from the Kherson region.&nbsp;The country's Armed Forces said on social media, "Kherson is returning to Ukrainian control and units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine are entering the city."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-forces-enter-kherson-city-following-complete-russian-military-evacuation-533385">Also read |&nbsp;Ukrainian forces enter Kherson city following ‘complete evacuation’ by Russian military</a>

Posting a video on Telegram of residents and troops gathering in the area, the Ukrainian president said, "As of now, our defenders are on the outskirts of the city. But special units are already in the city."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Is Russia's retreat from Kherson a trap?

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Several photos and videos of people waving Ukrainian flags in Kherson were posted by the country's parliament. Residents celebrated the news by donning flags, popping champagne corks, and singing the Ukrainian national anthem. The retreat news was joyfully welcomed in Kyiv, reported AFP.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuelba&nbsp;said, "Ukraine is gaining another important victory right now and proves that whatever Russia says or does, Ukraine will win." He also shared a video of Ukrainians taking down a billboard reading "Russia is here forever".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladmir-putin-to-not-attend-g20-summit-even-through-video-conference-533310">Also read |&nbsp;Vladmir Putin to not attend G20 summit even through video conference</a>

As per the Russian ministry, over 30,000 Russian service members, as well as over 5,000 pieces of gear and other military supplies have already been evacuated. However, Kremlin asserted that Kherson is still a part of Russia and that it did not regret annexing the entire region.&nbsp;

Moscow's special military operation in Ukraine began nine months ago on February 24, Kherson was one of the major urban centres to collapse. It has been one of the four Ukrainian regions that Putin declared to have been annexed to Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

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"Kherson is ours," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday (November 11) after Russia announced its completion of retreat from the Kherson region. The country's Armed Forces said on social media, "Kherson is returning to Ukrainian control and units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine are entering the city.

"Kherson is ours," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday (November 11) after Russia announced its completion of retreat from the Kherson region. The country's Armed Forces said on social media, "Kherson is returning to Ukrainian control and units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine are entering the city." Also read | Ukrainian forces enter Kherson city following ‘complete evacuation’ by Russian military Posting a video on Telegram of residents and troops gathering in the area, the Ukrainian president said, "As of now, our defenders are on the outskirts of the city. But special units are already in the city." Watch | Gravitas: Is Russia's retreat from Kherson a trap? Several photos and videos of people waving Ukrainian flags in Kherson were posted by the country's parliament. Residents celebrated the news by donning flags, popping champagne corks, and singing the Ukrainian national anthem. The retreat news was joyfully welcomed in Kyiv, reported AFP. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuelba said, "Ukraine is gaining another important victory right now and proves that whatever Russia says or does, Ukraine will win." He also shared a video of Ukrainians taking down a billboard reading "Russia is here forever". Also read | Vladmir Putin to not attend G20 summit even through video conference As per the Russian ministry, over 30,000 Russian service members, as well as over 5,000 pieces of gear and other military supplies have already been evacuated. However, Kremlin asserted that Kherson is still a part of Russia and that it did not regret annexing the entire region. Moscow's special military operation in Ukraine began nine months ago on February 24, Kherson was one of the major urban centres to collapse. It has been one of the four Ukrainian regions that Putin declared to have been annexed to Russia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Kherson is ours,' says Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after Russia's retreat

America’s top general&nbsp;Mark A Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has said at internal&nbsp;meetings that Ukraine should start negotiations, now that winter is about to set in. He said that it has achieved about as much as they could reasonably expect on the battlefield, media reports said citing officials informed about the discussions.

However, there are other advisers to US President Joe Biden who think that it might still be too early, the reports said. They believe that a pause in fighting will allow Russia to regroup its forces. Also, Washington might be seen as pressuring Ukraine to come to the bargaining table, for which the moment is not ripe.

US security package for Ukraine

Meanwhile, Pentagon on Thursday announced another $400 million security assistance package to Ukraine and will also give air defence systems and surface-to-air missiles.&nbsp;

According to the US, these additional air defence weapons are essential due to Russia's relentless air strikes against Ukrainians and the infrastructure. This is the first time Ukraine received four short-range, highly mobile Avenger&nbsp;air defence systems with Stinger missiles.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-withdrawal-from-kherson-to-take-at-least-a-week-kyiv-533074">Also read |&nbsp;Russian withdrawal from Kherson to take at least a week - Kyiv</a>

The package also includes missiles for the HAWK air defence systems. The package's additional items will be sourced from current US stockpiles.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Russia asks troops to withdraw from Kherson

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In his remarks, General Miley claimed that over 100,000 Russian military personnel had been injured or killed in Ukraine, with Kyiv suffering an equal number of casualties.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-withdrawal-from-kherson-another-victory-for-ukraine-nato-chief-533015">Also read |&nbsp;Russia's withdrawal from Kherson 'another victory for Ukraine': NATO chief</a>

This current agreement raises the entire amount of US security aid provided to Ukraine to over 18.6 billion since Russia's military operation began in February.

Russian troops start Kherson withdrawal

In the meantime, Russia on the same day declared that its troops had started leaving Kherson in southern Ukraine, a major setback to Moscow's special military operation.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian defence minister recently stated that Russia's withdrawal from the region will take up to a week.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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America’s top general Mark A Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has said at internal meetings that Ukraine should start negotiations, now that winter is about to set in.

America’s top general Mark A Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has said at internal meetings that Ukraine should start negotiations, now that winter is about to set in. He said that it has achieved about as much as they could reasonably expect on the battlefield, media reports said citing officials informed about the discussions. However, there are other advisers to US President Joe Biden who think that it might still be too early, the reports said. They believe that a pause in fighting will allow Russia to regroup its forces. Also, Washington might be seen as pressuring Ukraine to come to the bargaining table, for which the moment is not ripe. US security package for Ukraine Meanwhile, Pentagon on Thursday announced another $400 million security assistance package to Ukraine and will also give air defence systems and surface-to-air missiles. According to the US, these additional air defence weapons are essential due to Russia's relentless air strikes against Ukrainians and the infrastructure. This is the first time Ukraine received four short-range, highly mobile Avenger air defence systems with Stinger missiles. Also read | Russian withdrawal from Kherson to take at least a week - Kyiv The package also includes missiles for the HAWK air defence systems. The package's additional items will be sourced from current US stockpiles. Watch | Gravitas: Russia asks troops to withdraw from Kherson In his remarks, General Miley claimed that over 100,000 Russian military personnel had been injured or killed in Ukraine, with Kyiv suffering an equal number of casualties. Also read | Russia's withdrawal from Kherson 'another victory for Ukraine': NATO chief This current agreement raises the entire amount of US security aid provided to Ukraine to over 18.6 billion since Russia's military operation began in February. Russian troops start Kherson withdrawal In the meantime, Russia on the same day declared that its troops had started leaving Kherson in southern Ukraine, a major setback to Moscow's special military operation. The Ukrainian defence minister recently stated that Russia's withdrawal from the region will take up to a week. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine to receive Avenger air defence systems amid US general's call to enter negotiations

Ukraine's defence minister said on Thursday it would take Russia at least a week to withdraw its troops from the southern city of Kherson and that winter would slow down operations on the battlefield, giving both sides a chance to recuperate.

In an interview in Kyiv, Oleksii Reznikov told Reuters Russia had a contingent of 40,000 troops in Kherson region and that intelligence showed its forces remained in the city, around the city and on the right bank of the vast Dnipro River.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-withdrawal-from-kherson-another-victory-for-ukraine-nato-chief-533015">Also read |&nbsp;Russia's withdrawal from Kherson 'another victory for Ukraine': NATO chief</a>

"It's not that easy to withdraw these troops from Kherson in one day or two days. As a minimum, (it will take) one week," he said.

Russia said on Wednesday that its forces would retreat from the west bank of the Dnipro River, which includes Kherson, the only regional capital Moscow had captured since invading Ukraine in February.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia begins pulling out of Kherson; Ukraine skeptical, fears a Russian trap

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Reznikov said that such an exit would free up forces from both sides to fight elsewhere. Ukraine, he said, had a security and defence force of 1 million personnel to guard a "non-friendly" 2,500-km border with Belarus, Russia and occupied Ukrainian areas.

He dismissed as "crazy" the idea that Russia might blow up the Kakhovka dam as it withdraws, saying it would flood areas controlled by Moscow.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-russia-preparing-kids-for-war-moscow-rolls-out-soviet-era-training-to-teach-children-how-to-use-weapons-532999">Also read |&nbsp;Is Russia preparing kids for war? Moscow rolls out Soviet-era 'training' to teach children how to use weapons</a>

"If you check the landscape in this district, you will find that the western bank is higher terrain and the east bank is lower terrain," he said.

"This means the water will flow east of this bank and they will have a risk for their troops," he said.

Both sides in the conflict have accused the other of planning to destroy the dam.

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Ukraine's defence minister said on Thursday it would take Russia at least a week to withdraw its troops from the southern city of Kherson and that winter would slow down operations on the battlefield, giving both sides a chance to recuperate.

Ukraine's defence minister said on Thursday it would take Russia at least a week to withdraw its troops from the southern city of Kherson and that winter would slow down operations on the battlefield, giving both sides a chance to recuperate. In an interview in Kyiv, Oleksii Reznikov told Reuters Russia had a contingent of 40,000 troops in Kherson region and that intelligence showed its forces remained in the city, around the city and on the right bank of the vast Dnipro River. Also read | Russia's withdrawal from Kherson 'another victory for Ukraine': NATO chief "It's not that easy to withdraw these troops from Kherson in one day or two days. As a minimum, (it will take) one week," he said. Russia said on Wednesday that its forces would retreat from the west bank of the Dnipro River, which includes Kherson, the only regional capital Moscow had captured since invading Ukraine in February. Watch | Russia begins pulling out of Kherson; Ukraine skeptical, fears a Russian trap Reznikov said that such an exit would free up forces from both sides to fight elsewhere. Ukraine, he said, had a security and defence force of 1 million personnel to guard a "non-friendly" 2,500-km border with Belarus, Russia and occupied Ukrainian areas. He dismissed as "crazy" the idea that Russia might blow up the Kakhovka dam as it withdraws, saying it would flood areas controlled by Moscow. Also read | Is Russia preparing kids for war? Moscow rolls out Soviet-era 'training' to teach children how to use weapons "If you check the landscape in this district, you will find that the western bank is higher terrain and the east bank is lower terrain," he said. "This means the water will flow east of this bank and they will have a risk for their troops," he said. Both sides in the conflict have accused the other of planning to destroy the dam. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian withdrawal from Kherson to take at least a week - Kyiv

As temperatures drop below freezing in eastern Ukraine, people are preparing for harshest winter in decades. Watch full video to know more.

Ukrainians prepare for harsh wartime winter

Russia has now accused UK of being drawn too deep into the conflict in Ukraine. Russia's ambassador to the United Kingdom has claimed that Britain has played a major role in the attack on its warships.

Ruusia accuses UK over Nord Stream blasts, says 'UK Navy blew up Nord Stream'

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law on Saturday to conscript people with outstanding convictions for murder, robbery, drug trafficking, and other serious crimes, in an effort to ramp up the country's need to mobilise soldiers to fight against Ukraine. The United Kingdom's Ministry of Defence had alleged last month that the Wagner Group, a network of mercenaries owned by Russian entities, had started recruiting Russian convicts suffering from serious diseases, including HIV and Hepatitis C, for the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

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Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 30 October 2022 
 
Find out more about the UK government's response: <a href="https://t.co/NnbL0SZv8W">https://t.co/NnbL0SZv8W</a> 
 
🇺🇦 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StandWithUkraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StandWithUkraine</a> 🇺🇦 <a href="https://t.co/pVG0B0CJXK">pic.twitter.com/pVG0B0CJXK</a>
— Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceHQ/status/1586609838464897026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Following group of former prisoners exempted from conscription effort

The group of former prisoners exempted from the conscription effort include individuals convicted of committing sexual assault against minors, treason, spying, and terrorism.

The law signed by Vladimir Putin applies to prisoners who were conditionally convicted. Such individuals must remain under the supervision of authorities until their conviction is cancelled.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-wagner-private-army-gets-its-first-official-headquarters-in-russia-531367">Putin's Wagner private army gets its first official headquarters in Russia</a>

Earlier on Friday, President Vladimir Putin had said that Kremlin had already mobilised an additional 18,000 soldiers above its goal of 300,000 conscriptions to push its war effort in Ukraine. Before that, the Russian Ministry of Defence had announced that all mobilisation activities were suspended after the target of conscripting 300,000 soldiers from the general population was reached this week.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-pushes-ukraine-to-let-go-of-refusal-to-talk-to-russia-war-takes-a-toll-on-world-economy-531578">US pushes Ukraine to let go of refusal to talk to Russia, war takes a toll on world economy</a>

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Meanwhile, Russia has also asked for a meeting of the UN Security Council on Monday, November 7, to address the alleged attack on its Black Sea Fleet by Ukraine. The attack was cited as the reason by the Kremlin to pull itself out of a UN-backed agreement to allow the export of grain from Ukraine via a safe Black Sea corridor. Russia subsequently rejoined the deal after Turkish intervention on November 2.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law on Saturday to conscript people with outstanding convictions for murder, robbery, drug trafficking, and other serious crimes, in an effort to ramp up the country's need to mobilise soldiers to fight against Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law on Saturday to conscript people with outstanding convictions for murder, robbery, drug trafficking, and other serious crimes, in an effort to ramp up the country's need to mobilise soldiers to fight against Ukraine. The United Kingdom's Ministry of Defence had alleged last month that the Wagner Group, a network of mercenaries owned by Russian entities, had started recruiting Russian convicts suffering from serious diseases, including HIV and Hepatitis C, for the war in Ukraine. Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 30 October 2022 Find out more about the UK government's response: https://t.co/NnbL0SZv8W 🇺🇦 #StandWithUkraine 🇺🇦 pic.twitter.com/pVG0B0CJXK — Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) October 30, 2022 × Following group of former prisoners exempted from conscription effort The group of former prisoners exempted from the conscription effort include individuals convicted of committing sexual assault against minors, treason, spying, and terrorism. The law signed by Vladimir Putin applies to prisoners who were conditionally convicted. Such individuals must remain under the supervision of authorities until their conviction is cancelled. ALSO READ | Putin's Wagner private army gets its first official headquarters in Russia Earlier on Friday, President Vladimir Putin had said that Kremlin had already mobilised an additional 18,000 soldiers above its goal of 300,000 conscriptions to push its war effort in Ukraine. Before that, the Russian Ministry of Defence had announced that all mobilisation activities were suspended after the target of conscripting 300,000 soldiers from the general population was reached this week. WATCH | US pushes Ukraine to let go of refusal to talk to Russia, war takes a toll on world economy × Meanwhile, Russia has also asked for a meeting of the UN Security Council on Monday, November 7, to address the alleged attack on its Black Sea Fleet by Ukraine. The attack was cited as the reason by the Kremlin to pull itself out of a UN-backed agreement to allow the export of grain from Ukraine via a safe Black Sea corridor. Russia subsequently rejoined the deal after Turkish intervention on November 2. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin signs law to conscript convicts in prison as Russia braces for more fighting in Ukraine

The uncertainty over Russian President Vladimir Putin’s participation in the Group of 20 (G-20) leaders’ summit in Indonesia continues even after the Russian leader’s phone conversation with the leader of the host nation. Indonesian President Joko Widodo said Putin told him that he wants to attend the G-20 summit but is yet to take a formal call.&nbsp;

"He (Putin) wanted to attend but cannot decide at the moment," Widodo was quoted as saying by the Indonesian newspaper Kompas on Friday.

In August, Putin accepted Jakarta's invitation for the summit scheduled to be held on November 15-16. But the acceptance is yet to formally come from the Russian side as Putin did not specifically confirm his attendance during his phone call with Indonesian President Joko Widodo.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indonesias-envoy-krisnamurthi-speaks-to-wion-on-the-g20-bali-summit-wion-exclusive-531054">Indonesia's envoy Krisnamurthi speaks to WION on the G20 Bali summit | WION Exclusive</a>

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The G-20 summit remains shadowed by the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine with dynamic real-time frontline situations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that he will boycott the summit if Putin attends.

"If the leader of the Russian Federation was to take part in it, Ukraine would not be participating," Zelensky told a group of reporters in Kyiv.&nbsp;

Host Indonesia holds talks with both Russia and Ukraine

In Wednesday's phone call, Putin and Widodo also discussed a grain deal that Russia resumed this week which allows Ukrainian exports to pass through the Black Sea, the Indonesian leader said.

The grain deal's renewal date brokered by the UN and Turkey is November 19, three days after the G20 summit concludes.

Zelensky and Widodo also held phone talks Thursday about preparations for the G20 summit and the grain deal, the Ukrainian leader said in a tweet.

Indonesia has called for a peaceful resolution to Russia's months-long invasion of Ukraine, with Widodo becoming the first Asian leader to visit both Kyiv and Moscow since the outbreak of war in February.

17 G20 leaders confirm their attendance

The Indonesian president said 17 G20 leaders have confirmed their attendance at the summit, including India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Joe Biden, and China's Xi Jinping.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The uncertainty over Russian President Vladimir Putin’s participation in the Group of 20 (G-20) leaders’ summit in Indonesia continues even after the Russian leader’s phone conversation with the leader of the host nation.

The uncertainty over Russian President Vladimir Putin’s participation in the Group of 20 (G-20) leaders’ summit in Indonesia continues even after the Russian leader’s phone conversation with the leader of the host nation. Indonesian President Joko Widodo said Putin told him that he wants to attend the G-20 summit but is yet to take a formal call. "He (Putin) wanted to attend but cannot decide at the moment," Widodo was quoted as saying by the Indonesian newspaper Kompas on Friday. In August, Putin accepted Jakarta's invitation for the summit scheduled to be held on November 15-16. But the acceptance is yet to formally come from the Russian side as Putin did not specifically confirm his attendance during his phone call with Indonesian President Joko Widodo. WATCH | Indonesia's envoy Krisnamurthi speaks to WION on the G20 Bali summit | WION Exclusive × The G-20 summit remains shadowed by the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine with dynamic real-time frontline situations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that he will boycott the summit if Putin attends. "If the leader of the Russian Federation was to take part in it, Ukraine would not be participating," Zelensky told a group of reporters in Kyiv. Host Indonesia holds talks with both Russia and Ukraine In Wednesday's phone call, Putin and Widodo also discussed a grain deal that Russia resumed this week which allows Ukrainian exports to pass through the Black Sea, the Indonesian leader said. The grain deal's renewal date brokered by the UN and Turkey is November 19, three days after the G20 summit concludes. Zelensky and Widodo also held phone talks Thursday about preparations for the G20 summit and the grain deal, the Ukrainian leader said in a tweet. Indonesia has called for a peaceful resolution to Russia's months-long invasion of Ukraine, with Widodo becoming the first Asian leader to visit both Kyiv and Moscow since the outbreak of war in February. 17 G20 leaders confirm their attendance The Indonesian president said 17 G20 leaders have confirmed their attendance at the summit, including India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Joe Biden, and China's Xi Jinping. (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.

Russian President Vladimir Putin yet to decide on attending G-20 summit in Bali

Russia has blamed the UK for the attack that targeted the Nord Stream gas pipelines in September. The UK has denied Russia's accusations. Priyanka Sharma brings you the details.

WION Fineprint | Russia says UK behind Nord Stream blasts

In a significant development poised to raise the prospects of food security worldwide, Russia resumed its support for Black Sea Grain Initiative to ensure a safe and secure corridor for grain and fertiliser export from Ukraine. In South-East Asia, North Korea raised temperatures in the Korean peninsula by firing 23 missiles, with at least one of them landing near the sea border of two Koreas. In other news, Benjamin Netanyahu looks set for a dramatic comeback at Israel’s Knesset, with Exit Polls and early vote-counts ensuring that the Netanyahu-led coalition manages to surpass the majority figure.

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-resumes-support-for-ukraines-grain-corridor-as-turkey-guarantees-shipment-exports-to-africa-first-530608">Russia resumes support for Ukraine’s grain corridor as Turkey guarantees shipment exports to Africa first</a>

Russia on Wednesday rejoined the United Nations-led Black Sea Grain Initiative, a pact first signed in July-2022 to ensure a secure corridor for export of grain and fertilisers export from Ukraine. The Kremlin on Saturday had said that it was pulling out of the pact, citing an attack on its Black Sea fleet.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-launches-23-missiles-and-100-artillery-rounds-south-korea-retaliates-530556">North Korea launches 23 missiles in a single day, South Korea retaliates</a>

Tensions rose as air sirens alarmed South Koreans on Wednesday. In a dramatic escalation of tensions between the two Koreas, Pyongyang launched 23 directions of which at least one came dangerously close to the sea border between the two arch-rivals. South Korea also retaliated by launching three air-to-surface, precision-guided missiles near the eastern sea border.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israels-netanyahu-says-his-camp-on-brink-of-big-election-win-will-wait-for-results-says-lapid-530475">Israel's Netanyahu says his camp on brink of big election win, 'will wait for results, says Lapid</a>

Former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s victory in the country's fifth general election in four years appeared imminent, with some 85 percent of the ballots from national elections counted and showing that voters gave him and his allies a majority in the country’s parliament.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-crush-police-should-explain-why-it-failed-to-act-on-time-says-pm-530500">South Korea crush: Police should explain why it failed to act on time, says PM</a>

South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-Soo slammed the police Wednesday while asking it to explain why it failed to respond to multiple emergency calls during Monday’s deadly Halloween crowd surge. South Korea is observing a period of mourning in the wake of the tragedy that has claimed 156 lives so far.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-morbi-bridge-collapse-will-of-god-says-arrested-manager-of-oreva-company-530540">India: Morbi bridge collapse ‘will of God’, says arrested manager of Oreva company</a>

The case of cable bridge collapse that claimed 135 lives in Gujarat’s Morbi on October 30 entered a local courtroom&nbsp;Wednesday.&nbsp;

During the hearing, one of the arrested Deepak Parekh, a manager of the Oreva company—which was given the repairing contract—reportedly told the magistrate that the incident took place because it was "the will of God". “It was the will of God that such an unfortunate event happened," Parekh was quoted as saying by The Indian Express newspaper.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-concerned-of-imminent-iranian-attack-on-saudi-says-will-not-hesitate-to-act-in-defence-530569">US concerned of imminent Iranian attack on Saudi, says 'will not hesitate to act in defence'</a>

After a Saudi Arabian intelligence report hinted at an imminent attack from Iran, the United States has expressed its concern and has said that it will not hesitate to respond if necessary. Saudi Arabia warned the United States that as a distraction manoeuvre to shift the limelight from its ongoing Hijab protests, Iran is planning to attack the Kingdom.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2022-kohli-arshdeep-help-india-beat-bangladesh-by-10-runs-in-rain-affected-thriller-530565">T20 World Cup 2022: Kohli, Arshdeep help India beat Bangladesh by 5 runs in rain-affected thriller</a>

In a nail-biting contest at the end of which Indian fans rejoiced, India’s Arshdeep Singh held his nerves in the final over to help India beat Bangladesh by 5 runs in Adelaide on Wednesday, November 2nd. The Indian bowlers staged an incredible comeback after a flying start from Bangladesh in their run-chase.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-avatar-the-way-of-water-new-trailer-james-cameron-film-promises-to-be-the-cinematic-event-of-the-year-530596">&nbsp;'Avatar The Way of Water' new trailer: James Cameron film promises to be the cinematic event of the year</a>

A new trailer for 'Avatar The Way of Water' is here. James Cameron's much-awaited sequel to 2009's 'Avatar' will bring you back to Pandora. The original was a big step up for computer-generated visuals that outdid anything else that had come before in photorealism but 'The Way of Water' may even be a bigger visual upgrade over its contemporaries.

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/russia-resumes-support-for-ukraines-grain-corridor-as-turkey-guarantees-shipment-exports-to-africa-first-530608">Rare first-edition US Constitution copy to go under the hammer; expected to fetch $30 million</a>

An 'extremely rare' first edition copy of the US Constitution, one of the most historic pieces of publication in US history will go under the hammer later this year. According to the auction house, the copy is expected to fetch as much as anything between $ 20 million to $30 million.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sleeping-too-little-or-too-much-puts-you-at-increased-risk-of-glaucoma-says-study-530511">Sleeping too little or too much puts you at increased risk of glaucoma, says study</a>

If you are someone who doesn't get much sleep, or someone who sleeps too much, then you are at a high risk of glaucoma, a common eye condition that affects millions of people and can lead to blindness, according to a decade-long study. Snoring, daytime sleepiness and insomnia can also increase the risk of the same.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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In a significant development poised to raise the prospects of food security worldwide, Russia resumed its support for Black Sea Grain Initiative to ensure a safe and secure corridor for grain and fertiliser export from Ukraine.

In a significant development poised to raise the prospects of food security worldwide, Russia resumed its support for Black Sea Grain Initiative to ensure a safe and secure corridor for grain and fertiliser export from Ukraine. In South-East Asia, North Korea raised temperatures in the Korean peninsula by firing 23 missiles, with at least one of them landing near the sea border of two Koreas. In other news, Benjamin Netanyahu looks set for a dramatic comeback at Israel’s Knesset, with Exit Polls and early vote-counts ensuring that the Netanyahu-led coalition manages to surpass the majority figure. Click on the headlines to read more: Russia resumes support for Ukraine’s grain corridor as Turkey guarantees shipment exports to Africa first Russia on Wednesday rejoined the United Nations-led Black Sea Grain Initiative, a pact first signed in July-2022 to ensure a secure corridor for export of grain and fertilisers export from Ukraine. The Kremlin on Saturday had said that it was pulling out of the pact, citing an attack on its Black Sea fleet. North Korea launches 23 missiles in a single day, South Korea retaliates Tensions rose as air sirens alarmed South Koreans on Wednesday. In a dramatic escalation of tensions between the two Koreas, Pyongyang launched 23 directions of which at least one came dangerously close to the sea border between the two arch-rivals. South Korea also retaliated by launching three air-to-surface, precision-guided missiles near the eastern sea border. Israel's Netanyahu says his camp on brink of big election win, 'will wait for results, says Lapid Former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s victory in the country's fifth general election in four years appeared imminent, with some 85 percent of the ballots from national elections counted and showing that voters gave him and his allies a majority in the country’s parliament. South Korea crush: Police should explain why it failed to act on time, says PM South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-Soo slammed the police Wednesday while asking it to explain why it failed to respond to multiple emergency calls during Monday’s deadly Halloween crowd surge. South Korea is observing a period of mourning in the wake of the tragedy that has claimed 156 lives so far. India: Morbi bridge collapse ‘will of God’, says arrested manager of Oreva company The case of cable bridge collapse that claimed 135 lives in Gujarat’s Morbi on October 30 entered a local courtroom Wednesday. During the hearing, one of the arrested Deepak Parekh, a manager of the Oreva company—which was given the repairing contract—reportedly told the magistrate that the incident took place because it was "the will of God". “It was the will of God that such an unfortunate event happened," Parekh was quoted as saying by The Indian Express newspaper. US concerned of imminent Iranian attack on Saudi, says 'will not hesitate to act in defence' After a Saudi Arabian intelligence report hinted at an imminent attack from Iran, the United States has expressed its concern and has said that it will not hesitate to respond if necessary. Saudi Arabia warned the United States that as a distraction manoeuvre to shift the limelight from its ongoing Hijab protests, Iran is planning to attack the Kingdom. T20 World Cup 2022: Kohli, Arshdeep help India beat Bangladesh by 5 runs in rain-affected thriller In a nail-biting contest at the end of which Indian fans rejoiced, India’s Arshdeep Singh held his nerves in the final over to help India beat Bangladesh by 5 runs in Adelaide on Wednesday, November 2nd. The Indian bowlers staged an incredible comeback after a flying start from Bangladesh in their run-chase. 'Avatar The Way of Water' new trailer: James Cameron film promises to be the cinematic event of the year A new trailer for 'Avatar The Way of Water' is here. James Cameron's much-awaited sequel to 2009's 'Avatar' will bring you back to Pandora. The original was a big step up for computer-generated visuals that outdid anything else that had come before in photorealism but 'The Way of Water' may even be a bigger visual upgrade over its contemporaries. Rare first-edition US Constitution copy to go under the hammer; expected to fetch $30 million An 'extremely rare' first edition copy of the US Constitution, one of the most historic pieces of publication in US history will go under the hammer later this year. According to the auction house, the copy is expected to fetch as much as anything between $ 20 million to $30 million. Sleeping too little or too much puts you at increased risk of glaucoma, says study If you are someone who doesn't get much sleep, or someone who sleeps too much, then you are at a high risk of glaucoma, a common eye condition that affects millions of people and can lead to blindness, according to a decade-long study. Snoring, daytime sleepiness and insomnia can also increase the risk of the same. (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.

Top 10 world news: Russia resumes UN grain deal, Korean conflict and more

On Tuesday, ships loaded with grains departed from Ukraine as Russia suspended its participation in the Black Sea grain initiative that ensures safe passage for critical food supply to the rest of the world.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Ships sail from Kyiv after Moscow exits grain deal

Russia has now come up with a new narrative for the Nord Stream pipeline blasts that took last month. The country's Defence Ministry claims that British Navy personnel 'blew up the pipeline'.

Nord Stream blasts: Russia accuses UK, says 'UK Navy planned terror attack'

In a polarising mobilisation effort, the first since World War Two, Russia has finally announced an end to its 'partial mobilisation' for&nbsp;Ukraine.

The announcement comes after deploying over a quarter of the gathered&nbsp;soldiers to the front lines.

The process of mobilisation began in late September after the president in his televised address announced the need of deploying Russian soldiers to Ukraine for the fight.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyiv-bracing-for-unprecedented-power-outages-due-to-russias-bombing-campaign-529288">Also read |&nbsp;Kyiv bracing for 'unprecedented' power outages due to Russia's bombing campaign</a>

During a live meeting in the Kremlin, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said, "The task set by you of (mobilising) 300,000 people has been completed. No further measures are planned." He further claimed that no additional actions are needed and nearly 82,000 soldiers have already been sent to the area. He informed President Putin of the same.

Putin thanked reservists for their dedication to duty, patriotism and unwavering commitment to defend their country, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

People saw the direct effect of Moscow's special military operation initiated in February and then the call for mobilisation. Thousands of individuals protested for both reasons and were detained.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-secret-services-trying-to-subvert-pro-west-govt-in-moldova-report-529199">Also read |&nbsp;Russian secret services trying to subvert pro-West govt in Moldova: Report</a>

During his televised address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his doubt that Moscow had called up all of its troops. He claimed that the Russian military is so poorly trained and equipped that it s assumed that Russia might deploy soldiers soon.

Kyiv in the meantime has kept advancing. Serhiy Gaidai, Luhansk governor on Friday declared that the Ukrainian forces had essentially taken complete control of a crucial route that links Svavtove and Kreminna. The Ukrainian forces have advanced their control of Kherson.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the US has announced another military aid worth $275 million to Ukraine, bringing US military assistance under&nbsp;the Biden administration to&nbsp;$18.5 billion.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a polarising mobilisation effort, the first since World War Two, Russia has finally announced an end to its 'partial mobilisation' for Ukraine. The announcement comes after deploying over a quarter of the gathered soldiers to the front lines.

In a polarising mobilisation effort, the first since World War Two, Russia has finally announced an end to its 'partial mobilisation' for Ukraine. The announcement comes after deploying over a quarter of the gathered soldiers to the front lines. The process of mobilisation began in late September after the president in his televised address announced the need of deploying Russian soldiers to Ukraine for the fight. Also read | Kyiv bracing for 'unprecedented' power outages due to Russia's bombing campaign During a live meeting in the Kremlin, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said, "The task set by you of (mobilising) 300,000 people has been completed. No further measures are planned." He further claimed that no additional actions are needed and nearly 82,000 soldiers have already been sent to the area. He informed President Putin of the same. Putin thanked reservists for their dedication to duty, patriotism and unwavering commitment to defend their country, Reuters reported. People saw the direct effect of Moscow's special military operation initiated in February and then the call for mobilisation. Thousands of individuals protested for both reasons and were detained. Also read | Russian secret services trying to subvert pro-West govt in Moldova: Report During his televised address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his doubt that Moscow had called up all of its troops. He claimed that the Russian military is so poorly trained and equipped that it s assumed that Russia might deploy soldiers soon. Kyiv in the meantime has kept advancing. Serhiy Gaidai, Luhansk governor on Friday declared that the Ukrainian forces had essentially taken complete control of a crucial route that links Svavtove and Kreminna. The Ukrainian forces have advanced their control of Kherson. Meanwhile, the US has announced another military aid worth $275 million to Ukraine, bringing US military assistance under the Biden administration to $18.5 billion. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'The task set by you has been completed': Russia ends mobilisation for Ukraine, Zelensky expresses doubt

On Thursday (October 27), Ramzan Kadyrov, the Chenchen leader and a close ally of Russian president Vladimir Putin, said that 23 soldiers had been killed and 58 others injured in an artillery attack by Ukraine this week.

Kadyrov claimed the instance happened in southern Kherson in a Telegram statement. He said, "All rescue operations at the site have been completed and there is a final list of dead and injured—23 soldiers were killed and 58 wounded."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/future-belongs-to-india-russias-vladimir-putin-hails-pm-modis-independent-foreign-policy-529002">Also read |&nbsp;‘Future belongs to India’: Russia's Vladimir Putin hails PM Modi’s 'independent' foreign policy</a>

Chechnya is a province in southern Russia with a majority of Muslims in the region, which is headed by Kadyrov. The leader identifies himself as a foot soldier for the Russian president.

It has been nearly eight months since the conflict in Russia's Ukraine began. Thousands and thousands of soldiers from both sides have been killed. The recent instance adds to the Russian fatality toll.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-goddaughter-and-renowned-russian-media-figure-ksenia-sobchak-flees-to-lithuania-528857">Also read |&nbsp;Putin's goddaughter and renowned Russian media figure Ksenia Sobchak flees to Lithuania&nbsp;</a>

The Moscow forces have rarely acknowledged battlefield defeats since the war began, and the Chenchen leader's remarks were unexpected.

He also admitted that he had deployed thousands of soldiers to participate in the conflict. Yes, our losses in the early hours that day were great, but Chechens are participating in jihad ... and if they are destined to fall in the holy war, it is an honour and a great joy for every true Muslim, he remarked.

He claimed that following the conflict, the Chechen soldiers killed nearly 70 Ukrainian soldiers.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

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On Thursday (October 27), Ramzan Kadyrov, the Chenchen leader and a close ally of Russian president Vladimir Putin, said that 23 soldiers had been killed and 58 others injured in an artillery attack by Ukraine this week.

On Thursday (October 27), Ramzan Kadyrov, the Chenchen leader and a close ally of Russian president Vladimir Putin, said that 23 soldiers had been killed and 58 others injured in an artillery attack by Ukraine this week. Kadyrov claimed the instance happened in southern Kherson in a Telegram statement. He said, "All rescue operations at the site have been completed and there is a final list of dead and injured—23 soldiers were killed and 58 wounded." Also read | ‘Future belongs to India’: Russia's Vladimir Putin hails PM Modi’s 'independent' foreign policy Chechnya is a province in southern Russia with a majority of Muslims in the region, which is headed by Kadyrov. The leader identifies himself as a foot soldier for the Russian president. It has been nearly eight months since the conflict in Russia's Ukraine began. Thousands and thousands of soldiers from both sides have been killed. The recent instance adds to the Russian fatality toll. Also read | Putin's goddaughter and renowned Russian media figure Ksenia Sobchak flees to Lithuania The Moscow forces have rarely acknowledged battlefield defeats since the war began, and the Chenchen leader's remarks were unexpected. He also admitted that he had deployed thousands of soldiers to participate in the conflict. Yes, our losses in the early hours that day were great, but Chechens are participating in jihad ... and if they are destined to fall in the holy war, it is an honour and a great joy for every true Muslim, he remarked. He claimed that following the conflict, the Chechen soldiers killed nearly 70 Ukrainian soldiers. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia-Ukraine conflict: 23 killed, 58 injured in southern Kherson, says Vladimir Putin's ally Kadyrov

The new commander of Russian forces in Ukraine has admitted that the situation in the southern city of Kherson is "difficult." In other news, lawmakers in the United States House of Representatives have proposed a resolution urging President Joe Biden to recognise the war crimes committed by Pakistan during the 1971 Bangladesh liberation. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden will announce the release of 15 million barrels of oil from the US strategic reserve on Wednesday (October 19). In Pakistan this year, within eight months (January-August) over 15,000 police complaints were registered by women, making it the most number on record. &nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kherson-facing-difficult-situation-russian-commander-admits-amid-claims-of-overnight-shelling-by-kyiv-526608">Kherson facing 'difficult' situation, Russian commander admits amid claims of overnight shelling by Kyiv</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/19/304689-2022-10-18t185706z1lynxmpei9h0tyrtroptp4ukraine-crisis-surovikin.JPG" />

"The situation in this area is difficult. The enemy is deliberately striking infrastructure and residential buildings in Kherson," Sergei Surovikin, the Russian air force general now commanding Russia's invasion forces, told the state-owned Rossiya 24 news channel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lawmakers-urge-biden-to-recognise-war-crimes-committed-by-pakistan-during-1971-bangladesh-liberation-526624">US lawmakers urge Biden to recognise 'war crimes' committed by Pakistan during 1971 Bangladesh liberation</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/19/304704-new-wion-11.png" />

The eight-page resolution is titled 'Recognising the Bangladesh Genocide of 1971' and urges that the "active role" played by the Pakistan army and its functioning ancillary units in mass rape and genocide be recognised.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-to-release-15m-barrels-from-us-oil-reserves-after-opec-output-cut-526603">Biden to release 15 million barrels from US oil reserves after OPEC+ output cut</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/19/304683-140601aa287721901666137115011.jpg" />

In reaction to price increases brought on by Russia's invasion of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-withdraws-proposal-to-pentagon-seking-funds-for-starlink-526391">Ukraine</a>, the latest batch of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve will be "completing the 180 million barrel release authorised in the spring," a senior US official said on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-over-15000-complaints-registered-by-women-harassment-rape-and-family-issues-punjab-at-top-526619">Pakistan: Over 15,000 complaints registered by women for harassment, rape and family issues, Punjab at top&nbsp;</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/19/304700-000del6382002.jpg" />

According to the 2021 annual report by the Sindh Suhai organisation, which works for women and girls who face abuse stated that 6,842 women were reported to be victims of violence and over 100 were raped.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;UK PM Liz Truss apologizes for market turmoil, but will public forgive her?

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The new commander of Russian forces in Ukraine has admitted that the situation in the southern city of Kherson is "difficult." In other news, lawmakers in the United States House of Representatives have proposed a resolution urging President Joe Biden to recognise the war crimes committed by Pakistan during the 1971 Bangladesh liberation.

The new commander of Russian forces in Ukraine has admitted that the situation in the southern city of Kherson is "difficult." In other news, lawmakers in the United States House of Representatives have proposed a resolution urging President Joe Biden to recognise the war crimes committed by Pakistan during the 1971 Bangladesh liberation. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden will announce the release of 15 million barrels of oil from the US strategic reserve on Wednesday (October 19). In Pakistan this year, within eight months (January-August) over 15,000 police complaints were registered by women, making it the most number on record. Click on the headlines to read more: Kherson facing 'difficult' situation, Russian commander admits amid claims of overnight shelling by Kyiv "The situation in this area is difficult. The enemy is deliberately striking infrastructure and residential buildings in Kherson," Sergei Surovikin, the Russian air force general now commanding Russia's invasion forces, told the state-owned Rossiya 24 news channel. US lawmakers urge Biden to recognise 'war crimes' committed by Pakistan during 1971 Bangladesh liberation The eight-page resolution is titled 'Recognising the Bangladesh Genocide of 1971' and urges that the "active role" played by the Pakistan army and its functioning ancillary units in mass rape and genocide be recognised. Biden to release 15 million barrels from US oil reserves after OPEC+ output cut In reaction to price increases brought on by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the latest batch of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve will be "completing the 180 million barrel release authorised in the spring," a senior US official said on Tuesday. Pakistan: Over 15,000 complaints registered by women for harassment, rape and family issues, Punjab at top According to the 2021 annual report by the Sindh Suhai organisation, which works for women and girls who face abuse stated that 6,842 women were reported to be victims of violence and over 100 were raped. Watch | UK PM Liz Truss apologizes for market turmoil, but will public forgive her?

Morning news brief: Situation in Kherson 'difficult,' US to release 15mn barrels of oil, and more

Since Russia annexed Crimea in 2014, American companies have been prohibited from dealing with MMZ Avangard, a state-owned&nbsp;firm&nbsp;that makes&nbsp;missiles&nbsp;for one of Russia's most sophisticated weapons, the S-400 air-defence system.

In a measure of Western concern about the S-400, the United States ejected Turkey, a NATO member, from a joint fighter jet programme in 2019 after Ankara took delivery of the Russian system.

But even as the United States was taking actions to blunt MMZ Avangard's business, a publicly traded American&nbsp;technology company, Extreme Networks, was providing MMZ Avangard with computer&nbsp;networking&nbsp;equipment for its office IT systems, according to emails and other business records seen by Reuters, as well as interviews with people familiar with the matter.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unga-passes-resolution-condemning-russian-illegal-annexation-of-ukrainian-land-india-abstains-from-voting-524945">Also read |&nbsp;UNGA passes resolution condemning Russian 'illegal annexation' of Ukrainian land; India abstains from voting</a>

In a statement to Reuters, Extreme said that based on information provided by the news agency it believed equipment "may have" been sold to MMZ Avangard using a surrogate buyer. Extreme said the equipment was sold without its knowledge. It added, without providing evidence, that an intermediary in Russia was "complicit" in supplying its products via a front company to "bad actors." Extreme said it is reporting its findings of these potential sales to&nbsp;U.S. authorities.

Ukraine has accused Russia of deploying&nbsp;missiles&nbsp;made by MMZ Avangard against ground targets since Russia launched what it terms its "special operation" on Feb. 24. Ukrainian authorities said MMZ Avangard&nbsp;missiles&nbsp;killed at least 30 civilians in a gruesome attack on a convoy on the edge of the southern city of Zaporizhzhia last month. Neither Kremlin officials nor MMZ Avangard responded to questions for this article. MMZ Avangard's parent, Almaz-Antey, also didn't comment.

Between 2017 and 2021, MMZ Avangard obtained over half a million dollars' worth of Extreme equipment for its IT systems, according to the business records reviewed by Reuters and the people familiar with the matter. The products included high-speed switches, an essential building block of corporate IT networks, and software.

The records also show that the deals went through a seemingly innocuous corporation near Moscow, and despite two Extreme officials raising concerns, the sales went forward.

That a Russian military company, identified as a threat by Washington, continued to acquire&nbsp;U.S. computer hardware is a case study in how Western countries may have overestimated their ability to choke the Russian economy with export bans and trade sanctions. It also highlights how dependent Russia's military machine is on&nbsp;U.S. high-tech&nbsp;equipment.

In April, six weeks after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, an Extreme employee filed an internal complaint, seen by Reuters, alleging that the company was selling to various military manufacturers in Russia. "Extreme equipment is used on Russian warships," the complaint said, "in communications systems."

Extreme said in its statement that the allegations were brought by a disgruntled employee. An investigation by the&nbsp;firm&nbsp;had found nothing to corroborate any of the claims until Reuters brought "new facts" to the company's attention this month. The company said it ceased operations in Russia in March, adding that it subsequently launched a process to dismiss the disgruntled employee for poor performance. It said it has no records of sales involving Russian warships.

Extreme, which trades on the NASDAQ exchange and is headquartered in Morrisville, North Carolina, has earned a solid reputation in the United States and is an official partner of the National Football League. The NFL declined to comment for this article.

A Reuters investigation in August found that while the United States and allies banned high-tech&nbsp;exports to Russia to try to cripple its defense industry, and many&nbsp;tech&nbsp;companies announced that they had halted exports to Russia, the flow of Western brand-name computer parts to Russian clients hasn't stopped.

This account of how Extreme&nbsp;supplied&nbsp;MMZ Avangard and at least two other Russian military companies is based on interviews with three people familiar with the shipments as well as a review by Reuters of documents spanning five years to 2021. The documents include sales records and email exchanges between Extreme employees, customers and distributors. The shipments are reported here for the first time.

The&nbsp;U. Department of Commerce, which administers export restrictions, declined to comment for this story.

It&nbsp;was&nbsp;necessary&nbsp;to use cover

Russian companies, including those in the military sector, have virtually no choice but to buy foreign equipment to build the computer networks necessary for modern-day business. Russia has very limited domestic production of&nbsp;networking&nbsp;equipment.

Founded in 1996, Extreme is a junior player in the computer&nbsp;networking&nbsp;industry. Last year, it posted revenue of $1.1 billion, compared with $50 billion for Cisco Systems.

Still, the smaller company is a "meaningful competitor," according to Alex Henderson, a network and security analyst at Needham and Company in New York. The&nbsp;US&nbsp;military as well as NASA use Extreme hardware and support, according to contracting records, and the company has built up a substantial marketing profile.

In Russia, as well, Extreme lists prestigious customers, such as the Ministry of Health, the federal pension fund and Lomonosov Moscow State University.

But according to documents seen by Reuters, other buyers of Extreme equipment included not just MMZ Avangard but a major Russian military shipbuilding company and a high-tech&nbsp;defense electronics manufacturer.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: More than 50 Western countries promise more weapons for Ukraine

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One of the documents shows that in the four years ending 2020, Russian customers purchased $41.5 million worth of equipment. Reuters couldn't determine Extreme's total sales to sanctioned or military&nbsp;firms because it wasn't clear if transactions other than those involving MMZ Avangard had been recorded under cover names.

In its statement to Reuters, Extreme said it doesn't report country specific revenue.

In Russia, Extreme maintained contacts with its customers in order to help design complex networks that expand over time, according to two of the people familiar with the matter. Each customer or potential buyer had its own account manager at the company and was listed on internal sales records. Actual sales, though, were done through authorized intermediaries.

Extreme, in its statement to Reuters, said it rarely provided direct installation services. It said it had no such contracts with DEMZ or MMZ Avangard.

In its statement, Extreme said it has a "firm&nbsp;policy" not to work with sanctioned entities, but added it isn't always notified of the end customer, especially when its products are sold through so-called "stocking" distributors that hold an inventory.

Extreme named one of those distributors as RRC and said it believed RRC was "complicit" in the scheme to supply MMZ Avangard. RRC and its Cyprus parent, BD Enterprise&nbsp;Networking&nbsp;didn't respond to messages from Reuters seeking comment.

For Russian military companies, Extreme equipment had a strong selling point, the three people familiar with the shipments said: Unlike larger rivals, Extreme doesn't require service subscriptions and frequent software updates. "It is absolutely autonomous," one of the people said of the equipment. "It works without a license and you don't even need to be connected to the internet." This means, another person said, that "you don't need to fear that your system will go dark because someone in the&nbsp;U.S. decided to disconnect you."

Extreme said that the "autonomous model" is not unique to the company, but acknowledged it has become relatively rare.

It was no secret in Russia that MMZ Avangard used Extreme equipment. In late 2019, the missile manufacturer issued a tender through Russia's online public procurement platform, saying it needed spare parts for the Extreme computer networks it possessed. Extreme didn't dispute this but said it wouldn't necessarily be aware of such a tender.

A few months before, in the summer of 2019, an intermediary had contacted Extreme's representative office in Russia, asking for advice on a network upgrade for the missile company, the documents show. "We are working on a solution for the customer, MMZ Avangard," an employee of the intermediary wrote in a June 28, 2019, email to an Extreme system engineer. "I was told that I could seek your help."

As soon as its equipment arrived in Moscow, Extreme dispatched a staff engineer to MMZ Avangard's offices to help ensure a smooth installation, one of the people familiar with the shipments said.

In its statement to Reuters, Extreme said it had no records of an Extreme employee installing equipment at MMZ Avangard.

When it came to processing MMZ Avangard's purchasing orders, the missile&nbsp;maker's name didn't appear on Extreme's books. Instead, Extreme's Moscow employees recorded the orders as having been placed by a company called OOO DEMZ, according to emails and sales records, as well as three people familiar with the matter.

"It was necessary to use a cover because the Russian company is blacklisted in the&nbsp;U.S.," one of the people familiar with the shipments said. It has been illegal for&nbsp;U.S. companies to do business with MMZ Avangard since July 2014, when the&nbsp;U.S. Treasury Department listed its parent company, Almaz-Antey, as a "blocked" entity. The Treasury declined to comment for this story.

MMZ Avangard began buying products from Extreme in December 2017 and was disguised under the DEMZ cover in Extreme business records from that date, according to emails and other documents seen by Reuters. The most recent transaction using the DEMZ cover that Reuters identified was in September 2021. In total, the records show that Extreme shipped goods worth about $645,000 in this way during that period.

Extreme, in its statement, said it now believes that its equipment may have been acquired through a "front company." Extreme confirmed that the DEMZ account listed product purchases for approximately $645,000.

DEMZ is a small company based in Dmitrov, a city 50 miles north of Moscow. Russian corporate records list Vladimir Markov as its general director. Reached by phone, Markov said that DEMZ, which made tools for railcar maintenance, ceased all operations in 2016. The executive said he had never heard of Extreme or of DEMZ buying Extreme equipment for itself or on behalf of others.

The apparent ruse was a shallow one. Purported executives for DEMZ, listed in the Extreme customer records seen by Reuters, were actually employees of the missile&nbsp;maker&nbsp;who had provided their MMZ Avangard email addresses. They even included the Avangard email addresses when they applied for access to an Extreme customer service portal. One of these people declined to comment. The other couldn't be reached. Some of the documents also listed mmza.ru - MMZ Avangard's domain name - as DEMZ's purported web address.

On the last day of 2019, as a "DEMZ" order was winding through Extreme's approval system, an Extreme sales manager working in North Carolina emailed RRC, the Russian distributor, with a question about the domain name: "Can you tell me what the relationship is between DEMZ and mmza.ru?" An employee of the distributor responded that mmza.ru was "the customer's" domain. The employee didn't elaborate. A subsequent message indicates that the sale went through.

Extreme, in its statement, did not address questions about MMZ Avangard staff registering for access to online support, and an Extreme sales manager raising questions about the web domain.

Nearly a year later, dealing with another set of "DEMZ" orders, an employee from Extreme's in-house compliance desk in Ireland spotted the mmza.ru domain in the sales paperwork and researched it. "This link," the compliance team employee said in a Nov. 11, 2020, email, "goes directly to https://mmzavangard.ru/ which is a defense contractor seemingly [sic] to specialize in ground to air missile systems, we need to further review before we can make a decision."

Extreme, in its statement, also did not address questions about this email.

Good news

The Extreme compliance employee instructed the Russia office to have "DEMZ," the purported customer, fill out a form to certify there was no military end-user, that the equipment would not be resold for any military purpose, and that it would not be transferred to any sanctioned company.

Less than a week after the message from the Extreme compliance employee, a two-page letter seen by Reuters attested that the end-user was not sanctioned, and would not use Extreme's equipment in a way banned by&nbsp;U.S. law. Bearing an illegible signature and a blue "DEMZ" stamp, the document was sent to Extreme's compliance desk, according to one of the people familiar with the matter.

DEMZ's business, according to the purported self-declaration, had nothing to do with sophisticated&nbsp;missiles. Rather it was "components for the Metalworking of country houses." DEMZ never made such components and was out of business at the time of the letter, according to former director general Markov.

"Just heard back from our supply team for the DEMZ orders," emailed the North Carolina manager on Nov. 25 "with some good news."

The sales could go through.

"Thank you," Extreme's Vienna-based regional director for Northern and Eastern Europe wrote.

U.S. export control specialists told Reuters self-declarations can be useful in determining whether a client is legitimate. However, upon coming across a red flag, "you stop or put on hold the transaction," said James Fuller, a former special agent with the&nbsp;U.S. Department of Commerce. "You don't offer an avenue to provide more false information, or suggest some kind of workaround."

Extreme in its statement to Reuters confirmed that its internal compliance officer had requested and received the self-declaration. The company added that it has "other screening processes to check for red flags."

Shipbuilding

In Russia, Extreme&nbsp;supplied&nbsp;IT equipment to other military companies, according to the business documents seen by Reuters and the people familiar with the matter.

One of them was United Shipbuilding Corp. The company has headquarters in St. Petersburg and operates a host of Russian shipyards, making everything from frigates to submarines to mine sweepers. Like MMZ Avangard, United Shipbuilding has been listed as a "blocked" entity by the&nbsp;U.S. Treasury since July 2014.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-unveils-new-national-security-strategy-china-russia-identified-as-major-threats-524974">Also read |&nbsp;US National Security strategy: China, Russia seen as threats, India as partner</a>

Another one was Concern Morinformsystem-Agat, a manufacturer of radar and other military electronics systems. According to the documents, including a July 2020 public tender, and one of the people familiar with the matter, Agat was relying on equipment from Extreme for some of its systems, which were then fitted on United Shipbuilding warships.

Extreme told Reuters it had no records of selling products to United Shipbuilding or Agat. The Russian companies did not respond to requests for comment.

United Shipbuilding is clearly described as an Extreme customer in email correspondence. In April 2020, an intermediary contacted Extreme's office in Moscow to submit the plan the intermediary had sketched out to modernize United Shipbuilding's data center.

A Russia-based engineer from Extreme responded the next day, pointing to a few items that could be removed from the proposed design.

"Apart from that, it's all correct," the Extreme engineer wrote in the email.

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Since Russia annexed Crimea in 2014, American companies have been prohibited from dealing with MMZ Avangard, a state-owned firm that makes missiles for one of Russia's most sophisticated weapons, the S-400 air-defence system.

Since Russia annexed Crimea in 2014, American companies have been prohibited from dealing with MMZ Avangard, a state-owned firm that makes missiles for one of Russia's most sophisticated weapons, the S-400 air-defence system. In a measure of Western concern about the S-400, the United States ejected Turkey, a NATO member, from a joint fighter jet programme in 2019 after Ankara took delivery of the Russian system. But even as the United States was taking actions to blunt MMZ Avangard's business, a publicly traded American technology company, Extreme Networks, was providing MMZ Avangard with computer networking equipment for its office IT systems, according to emails and other business records seen by Reuters, as well as interviews with people familiar with the matter. Also read | UNGA passes resolution condemning Russian 'illegal annexation' of Ukrainian land; India abstains from voting In a statement to Reuters, Extreme said that based on information provided by the news agency it believed equipment "may have" been sold to MMZ Avangard using a surrogate buyer. Extreme said the equipment was sold without its knowledge. It added, without providing evidence, that an intermediary in Russia was "complicit" in supplying its products via a front company to "bad actors." Extreme said it is reporting its findings of these potential sales to U.S. authorities. Ukraine has accused Russia of deploying missiles made by MMZ Avangard against ground targets since Russia launched what it terms its "special operation" on Feb. 24. Ukrainian authorities said MMZ Avangard missiles killed at least 30 civilians in a gruesome attack on a convoy on the edge of the southern city of Zaporizhzhia last month. Neither Kremlin officials nor MMZ Avangard responded to questions for this article. MMZ Avangard's parent, Almaz-Antey, also didn't comment. Between 2017 and 2021, MMZ Avangard obtained over half a million dollars' worth of Extreme equipment for its IT systems, according to the business records reviewed by Reuters and the people familiar with the matter. The products included high-speed switches, an essential building block of corporate IT networks, and software. The records also show that the deals went through a seemingly innocuous corporation near Moscow, and despite two Extreme officials raising concerns, the sales went forward. That a Russian military company, identified as a threat by Washington, continued to acquire U.S. computer hardware is a case study in how Western countries may have overestimated their ability to choke the Russian economy with export bans and trade sanctions. It also highlights how dependent Russia's military machine is on U.S. high-tech equipment. In April, six weeks after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, an Extreme employee filed an internal complaint, seen by Reuters, alleging that the company was selling to various military manufacturers in Russia. "Extreme equipment is used on Russian warships," the complaint said, "in communications systems." Extreme said in its statement that the allegations were brought by a disgruntled employee. An investigation by the firm had found nothing to corroborate any of the claims until Reuters brought "new facts" to the company's attention this month. The company said it ceased operations in Russia in March, adding that it subsequently launched a process to dismiss the disgruntled employee for poor performance. It said it has no records of sales involving Russian warships. Extreme, which trades on the NASDAQ exchange and is headquartered in Morrisville, North Carolina, has earned a solid reputation in the United States and is an official partner of the National Football League. The NFL declined to comment for this article. A Reuters investigation in August found that while the United States and allies banned high-tech exports to Russia to try to cripple its defense industry, and many tech companies announced that they had halted exports to Russia, the flow of Western brand-name computer parts to Russian clients hasn't stopped. This account of how Extreme supplied MMZ Avangard and at least two other Russian military companies is based on interviews with three people familiar with the shipments as well as a review by Reuters of documents spanning five years to 2021. The documents include sales records and email exchanges between Extreme employees, customers and distributors. The shipments are reported here for the first time. The U. Department of Commerce, which administers export restrictions, declined to comment for this story. It was necessary to use cover Russian companies, including those in the military sector, have virtually no choice but to buy foreign equipment to build the computer networks necessary for modern-day business. Russia has very limited domestic production of networking equipment. Founded in 1996, Extreme is a junior player in the computer networking industry. Last year, it posted revenue of $1.1 billion, compared with $50 billion for Cisco Systems. Still, the smaller company is a "meaningful competitor," according to Alex Henderson, a network and security analyst at Needham and Company in New York. The US military as well as NASA use Extreme hardware and support, according to contracting records, and the company has built up a substantial marketing profile. In Russia, as well, Extreme lists prestigious customers, such as the Ministry of Health, the federal pension fund and Lomonosov Moscow State University. But according to documents seen by Reuters, other buyers of Extreme equipment included not just MMZ Avangard but a major Russian military shipbuilding company and a high-tech defense electronics manufacturer. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: More than 50 Western countries promise more weapons for Ukraine One of the documents shows that in the four years ending 2020, Russian customers purchased $41.5 million worth of equipment. Reuters couldn't determine Extreme's total sales to sanctioned or military firms because it wasn't clear if transactions other than those involving MMZ Avangard had been recorded under cover names. In its statement to Reuters, Extreme said it doesn't report country specific revenue. In Russia, Extreme maintained contacts with its customers in order to help design complex networks that expand over time, according to two of the people familiar with the matter. Each customer or potential buyer had its own account manager at the company and was listed on internal sales records. Actual sales, though, were done through authorized intermediaries. Extreme, in its statement to Reuters, said it rarely provided direct installation services. It said it had no such contracts with DEMZ or MMZ Avangard. In its statement, Extreme said it has a "firm policy" not to work with sanctioned entities, but added it isn't always notified of the end customer, especially when its products are sold through so-called "stocking" distributors that hold an inventory. Extreme named one of those distributors as RRC and said it believed RRC was "complicit" in the scheme to supply MMZ Avangard. RRC and its Cyprus parent, BD Enterprise Networking didn't respond to messages from Reuters seeking comment. For Russian military companies, Extreme equipment had a strong selling point, the three people familiar with the shipments said: Unlike larger rivals, Extreme doesn't require service subscriptions and frequent software updates. "It is absolutely autonomous," one of the people said of the equipment. "It works without a license and you don't even need to be connected to the internet." This means, another person said, that "you don't need to fear that your system will go dark because someone in the U.S. decided to disconnect you." Extreme said that the "autonomous model" is not unique to the company, but acknowledged it has become relatively rare. It was no secret in Russia that MMZ Avangard used Extreme equipment. In late 2019, the missile manufacturer issued a tender through Russia's online public procurement platform, saying it needed spare parts for the Extreme computer networks it possessed. Extreme didn't dispute this but said it wouldn't necessarily be aware of such a tender. A few months before, in the summer of 2019, an intermediary had contacted Extreme's representative office in Russia, asking for advice on a network upgrade for the missile company, the documents show. "We are working on a solution for the customer, MMZ Avangard," an employee of the intermediary wrote in a June 28, 2019, email to an Extreme system engineer. "I was told that I could seek your help." As soon as its equipment arrived in Moscow, Extreme dispatched a staff engineer to MMZ Avangard's offices to help ensure a smooth installation, one of the people familiar with the shipments said. In its statement to Reuters, Extreme said it had no records of an Extreme employee installing equipment at MMZ Avangard. When it came to processing MMZ Avangard's purchasing orders, the missile maker's name didn't appear on Extreme's books. Instead, Extreme's Moscow employees recorded the orders as having been placed by a company called OOO DEMZ, according to emails and sales records, as well as three people familiar with the matter. "It was necessary to use a cover because the Russian company is blacklisted in the U.S.," one of the people familiar with the shipments said. It has been illegal for U.S. companies to do business with MMZ Avangard since July 2014, when the U.S. Treasury Department listed its parent company, Almaz-Antey, as a "blocked" entity. The Treasury declined to comment for this story. MMZ Avangard began buying products from Extreme in December 2017 and was disguised under the DEMZ cover in Extreme business records from that date, according to emails and other documents seen by Reuters. The most recent transaction using the DEMZ cover that Reuters identified was in September 2021. In total, the records show that Extreme shipped goods worth about $645,000 in this way during that period. Extreme, in its statement, said it now believes that its equipment may have been acquired through a "front company." Extreme confirmed that the DEMZ account listed product purchases for approximately $645,000. DEMZ is a small company based in Dmitrov, a city 50 miles north of Moscow. Russian corporate records list Vladimir Markov as its general director. Reached by phone, Markov said that DEMZ, which made tools for railcar maintenance, ceased all operations in 2016. The executive said he had never heard of Extreme or of DEMZ buying Extreme equipment for itself or on behalf of others. The apparent ruse was a shallow one. Purported executives for DEMZ, listed in the Extreme customer records seen by Reuters, were actually employees of the missile maker who had provided their MMZ Avangard email addresses. They even included the Avangard email addresses when they applied for access to an Extreme customer service portal. One of these people declined to comment. The other couldn't be reached. Some of the documents also listed mmza.ru - MMZ Avangard's domain name - as DEMZ's purported web address. On the last day of 2019, as a "DEMZ" order was winding through Extreme's approval system, an Extreme sales manager working in North Carolina emailed RRC, the Russian distributor, with a question about the domain name: "Can you tell me what the relationship is between DEMZ and mmza.ru?" An employee of the distributor responded that mmza.ru was "the customer's" domain. The employee didn't elaborate. A subsequent message indicates that the sale went through. Extreme, in its statement, did not address questions about MMZ Avangard staff registering for access to online support, and an Extreme sales manager raising questions about the web domain. Nearly a year later, dealing with another set of "DEMZ" orders, an employee from Extreme's in-house compliance desk in Ireland spotted the mmza.ru domain in the sales paperwork and researched it. "This link," the compliance team employee said in a Nov. 11, 2020, email, "goes directly to https://mmzavangard.ru/ which is a defense contractor seemingly [sic] to specialize in ground to air missile systems, we need to further review before we can make a decision." Extreme, in its statement, also did not address questions about this email. Good news The Extreme compliance employee instructed the Russia office to have "DEMZ," the purported customer, fill out a form to certify there was no military end-user, that the equipment would not be resold for any military purpose, and that it would not be transferred to any sanctioned company. Less than a week after the message from the Extreme compliance employee, a two-page letter seen by Reuters attested that the end-user was not sanctioned, and would not use Extreme's equipment in a way banned by U.S. law. Bearing an illegible signature and a blue "DEMZ" stamp, the document was sent to Extreme's compliance desk, according to one of the people familiar with the matter. DEMZ's business, according to the purported self-declaration, had nothing to do with sophisticated missiles. Rather it was "components for the Metalworking of country houses." DEMZ never made such components and was out of business at the time of the letter, according to former director general Markov. "Just heard back from our supply team for the DEMZ orders," emailed the North Carolina manager on Nov. 25 "with some good news." The sales could go through. "Thank you," Extreme's Vienna-based regional director for Northern and Eastern Europe wrote. U.S. export control specialists told Reuters self-declarations can be useful in determining whether a client is legitimate. However, upon coming across a red flag, "you stop or put on hold the transaction," said James Fuller, a former special agent with the U.S. Department of Commerce. "You don't offer an avenue to provide more false information, or suggest some kind of workaround." Extreme in its statement to Reuters confirmed that its internal compliance officer had requested and received the self-declaration. The company added that it has "other screening processes to check for red flags." Shipbuilding In Russia, Extreme supplied IT equipment to other military companies, according to the business documents seen by Reuters and the people familiar with the matter. One of them was United Shipbuilding Corp. The company has headquarters in St. Petersburg and operates a host of Russian shipyards, making everything from frigates to submarines to mine sweepers. Like MMZ Avangard, United Shipbuilding has been listed as a "blocked" entity by the U.S. Treasury since July 2014. Also read | US National Security strategy: China, Russia seen as threats, India as partner Another one was Concern Morinformsystem-Agat, a manufacturer of radar and other military electronics systems. According to the documents, including a July 2020 public tender, and one of the people familiar with the matter, Agat was relying on equipment from Extreme for some of its systems, which were then fitted on United Shipbuilding warships. Extreme told Reuters it had no records of selling products to United Shipbuilding or Agat. The Russian companies did not respond to requests for comment. United Shipbuilding is clearly described as an Extreme customer in email correspondence. In April 2020, an intermediary contacted Extreme's office in Moscow to submit the plan the intermediary had sketched out to modernize United Shipbuilding's data center. A Russia-based engineer from Extreme responded the next day, pointing to a few items that could be removed from the proposed design. "Apart from that, it's all correct," the Extreme engineer wrote in the email. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

How a US firm supplied networking technology to maker of feared Russian missiles

A Ukrainian official&nbsp;has said that three Iran-made suicide drones operated by Russian forces targeted Makariv, west of Ukraine's capital Kyiv, early on Thursday. He also said that critical infrastructure facilities were struck in the attack.

"There was a overnight drones' bombardment by invaders on the Makariv community," Andriy Nebytov, head of the Kyiv region police said on the Telegram messaging app.

"According to preliminary information, there were no casualties."

Separately, Oleksiy Kuleba, the governor of the Kyiv region, said that Russian missiles pounded more than 40 Ukrainian cities and towns near&nbsp;Kyiv.

Kuleba stated on the Telegram messaging service that preliminary findings indicated that Iran-manufactured "loitering munitions" also called "kamikaze drones" were to blame for the attacks. These drones wait around the target until instructed, and then ran target&nbsp;detonating their explosive payload on impact.

Kyrylo Tymoshenko, the deputy head of Volodymyr Zelensky's presidential office, informed earlier on Thursday earlier that the attack took place by "kamikaze drones on critical infrastructure facilities", without providing further details.

The kamikaze drone attack comes after the&nbsp;UN&nbsp;General Assembly&nbsp;condemned Moscow’s annexation of four Ukrainian areas.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unga-passes-resolution-condemning-russian-illegal-annexation-of-ukrainian-land-india-abstains-from-voting-524945">UNGA passes resolution condemning Russian 'illegal annexation' of Ukrainian land; India abstains from voting</a>

Three-quarters of the 193-member General Assembly in New York, or 143 nations, voted in favour of a resolution yesterday calling Moscow's annexation unconstitutional, further isolating Russia from the rest of the world.

Only Syria, Nicaragua, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-claims-it-test-fired-pair-of-long-range-cruise-missiles-524927">North Korea</a>, and Belarus joined Russia in voting against the measure. The remaining 35 nations, including China, a strategic ally of Russia, did not participate in the vote.

In the meanwhile, after strong retaliation attacks this week ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin in response to an explosion on a bridge in Crimea, more than 50 Western countries gathered in Brussels to commit greater military assistance to Ukraine, including air defence systems.

In recent weeks, Russia has reportedly carried out a number of attacks using the Shahed-136 drones built in Iran. While the Kremlin has not responded, Iran disputes that it gave Russia the drones.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Ukrainian official has said that three Iran-made suicide drones operated by Russian forces targeted Makariv, west of Ukraine's capital Kyiv, early on Thursday.

A Ukrainian official has said that three Iran-made suicide drones operated by Russian forces targeted Makariv, west of Ukraine's capital Kyiv, early on Thursday. He also said that critical infrastructure facilities were struck in the attack. "There was a overnight drones' bombardment by invaders on the Makariv community," Andriy Nebytov, head of the Kyiv region police said on the Telegram messaging app. "According to preliminary information, there were no casualties." Separately, Oleksiy Kuleba, the governor of the Kyiv region, said that Russian missiles pounded more than 40 Ukrainian cities and towns near Kyiv. Kuleba stated on the Telegram messaging service that preliminary findings indicated that Iran-manufactured "loitering munitions" also called "kamikaze drones" were to blame for the attacks. These drones wait around the target until instructed, and then ran target detonating their explosive payload on impact. Kyrylo Tymoshenko, the deputy head of Volodymyr Zelensky's presidential office, informed earlier on Thursday earlier that the attack took place by "kamikaze drones on critical infrastructure facilities", without providing further details. The kamikaze drone attack comes after the UN General Assembly condemned Moscow’s annexation of four Ukrainian areas. Also read | UNGA passes resolution condemning Russian 'illegal annexation' of Ukrainian land; India abstains from voting Three-quarters of the 193-member General Assembly in New York, or 143 nations, voted in favour of a resolution yesterday calling Moscow's annexation unconstitutional, further isolating Russia from the rest of the world. Only Syria, Nicaragua, North Korea, and Belarus joined Russia in voting against the measure. The remaining 35 nations, including China, a strategic ally of Russia, did not participate in the vote. In the meanwhile, after strong retaliation attacks this week ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin in response to an explosion on a bridge in Crimea, more than 50 Western countries gathered in Brussels to commit greater military assistance to Ukraine, including air defence systems. In recent weeks, Russia has reportedly carried out a number of attacks using the Shahed-136 drones built in Iran. While the Kremlin has not responded, Iran disputes that it gave Russia the drones. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Iran-made kamikaze drones hit Ukraine's Kyiv region; target critical infrastructure facilities

Unpublished

The seven recent North Korean missile launches, personally overseen by leader Kim Jong Un, were all "tactical nuclear" drills, state media said Monday. In other news, Donald Trump has called for an immediate "peaceful end" to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Finally, controversial American rapper Kanye West has been locked out of his Twitter account after posting anti-Semitic content.

Click&nbsp;on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-claims-recent-missile-tests-were-tactical-nuclear-drills-523871">North Korea claims recent missile tests were 'tactical nuclear drills'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/34454-submarine-missile-north-korea-pti-20171202010817.jpg" />

At a key party congress in January 2021, Kim outlined a five-year defence development plan, calling for the development of smaller and lighter nuclear weapons for "more tactical uses."

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-believes-world-war-iii-is-a-possibility-blames-stupid-people-for-russia-ukraine-conflict-escalation-523884">Trump believes 'World War III' is a possibility, blames 'stupid people' for Russia-Ukraine conflict escalation</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/27/282261-untitled-design-30.png" />

Trump said: "We must demand the immediate negotiation of a peaceful end to the war in Ukraine, or we will end up in World War III and there will be nothing left of our planet."&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/kanye-wests-twitter-account-locked-a-day-after-his-return-to-the-platform-523865">Kanye West's Twitter account locked a day after his return to the platform</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/09/16/296163-kanye-west.jpg" />

“I’m a bit sleepy tonight but when I wake up I’m going death con 3 On JEWISH PEOPLE The funny thing is I actually can’t be Anti Semitic because black people are actually Jew also You guys have toyed with me and tried to black ball anyone whoever opposes your agenda,” tweeted West.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;‘Miracle’ three-year-old child survived Thailand massacre asleep under blanket

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The seven recent North Korean missile launches, personally overseen by leader Kim Jong Un, were all "tactical nuclear" drills, state media said Monday. In other news, Donald Trump has called for an immediate "peaceful end" to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

The seven recent North Korean missile launches, personally overseen by leader Kim Jong Un, were all "tactical nuclear" drills, state media said Monday. In other news, Donald Trump has called for an immediate "peaceful end" to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Finally, controversial American rapper Kanye West has been locked out of his Twitter account after posting anti-Semitic content. Click on the headlines to read more: North Korea claims recent missile tests were 'tactical nuclear drills' At a key party congress in January 2021, Kim outlined a five-year defence development plan, calling for the development of smaller and lighter nuclear weapons for "more tactical uses." Trump believes 'World War III' is a possibility, blames 'stupid people' for Russia-Ukraine conflict escalation Trump said: "We must demand the immediate negotiation of a peaceful end to the war in Ukraine, or we will end up in World War III and there will be nothing left of our planet." Kanye West's Twitter account locked a day after his return to the platform “I’m a bit sleepy tonight but when I wake up I’m going death con 3 On JEWISH PEOPLE The funny thing is I actually can’t be Anti Semitic because black people are actually Jew also You guys have toyed with me and tried to black ball anyone whoever opposes your agenda,” tweeted West. Watch | ‘Miracle’ three-year-old child survived Thailand massacre asleep under blanket Watch | Rio: Pavers train the next generation to maintain iconic Portuguese pavements

Morning news brief: N Korea's 'tactical nuke drill', Kanye's Twitter account locked, & more

During a joint press conference, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishnakar on Monday (October 10) declined to disclose India's stand on the upcoming draft resolution against Russia in the UN General Assembly.&nbsp;

He said, "As a matter of prudence and policy, we don't predict our votes in advance." He continues, "We have been very clearly against the conflict in Ukraine," PTI reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-live-updates-three-loud-blasts-rock-kyiv-report-523917">Also read |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine conflict live updates | Zelensky says people 'dead and wounded' from strikes across Ukraine</a>

Jaishankar further added, " We believe that this conflict does not serve the interests of anybody neither the participants nor indeed of the international community. And as a country of the Global South, we have been seeing first-hand how much it has impacted low-income countries, the challenges that they are facing in terms of fuel and food and fertilisers."

The foreign minister said he agreed with what the Indian Prime Minister said at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit: that this is not the time for a war as it will affect everyone.

India till now hasn't condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine but has requested to solve the conflict through the matter of diplomacy and dialogue.&nbsp;Earlier this month, a draught resolution was presented to the UNSC to call for an immediate end to the violence while also stressing finding a resolution.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-reconnected-to-grid-a-day-after-line-was-cut-523869">Also read |&nbsp;Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant reconnected to grid a day after line was cut</a>

The diplomats said that the UN General Assembly is yet to decide on a draft resolution on Tuesday or Wednesday.&nbsp;

Russia-Ukraine has entered its seventh month. Till now the war has claimed the lives of thousands of people, forcing million to flee.&nbsp;

Several foreign countries have sent military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine and collectively showed their disagreement against Russia bypassing sanctions. Russia being the target has still not reversed its actions.&nbsp;

(WIth inputs from agencies)

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During a joint press conference, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishnakar on Monday (October 10) declined to disclose India's stand on the upcoming draft resolution against Russia in the UN General Assembly.

During a joint press conference, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishnakar on Monday (October 10) declined to disclose India's stand on the upcoming draft resolution against Russia in the UN General Assembly. He said, "As a matter of prudence and policy, we don't predict our votes in advance." He continues, "We have been very clearly against the conflict in Ukraine," PTI reported. Also read | Russia-Ukraine conflict live updates | Zelensky says people 'dead and wounded' from strikes across Ukraine Jaishankar further added, " We believe that this conflict does not serve the interests of anybody neither the participants nor indeed of the international community. And as a country of the Global South, we have been seeing first-hand how much it has impacted low-income countries, the challenges that they are facing in terms of fuel and food and fertilisers." The foreign minister said he agreed with what the Indian Prime Minister said at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit: that this is not the time for a war as it will affect everyone. India till now hasn't condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine but has requested to solve the conflict through the matter of diplomacy and dialogue. Earlier this month, a draught resolution was presented to the UNSC to call for an immediate end to the violence while also stressing finding a resolution. Also read | Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant reconnected to grid a day after line was cut The diplomats said that the UN General Assembly is yet to decide on a draft resolution on Tuesday or Wednesday. Russia-Ukraine has entered its seventh month. Till now the war has claimed the lives of thousands of people, forcing million to flee. Several foreign countries have sent military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine and collectively showed their disagreement against Russia bypassing sanctions. Russia being the target has still not reversed its actions. (WIth inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

EAM Jaishankar refuses to disclose India's upcoming UN vote on Russia

The military commissar of Russia's Khabarovsk region was removed from his post after half of the newly mobilised personnel were sent home as they did not meet the draft criteria, the region's governor said early on Monday.

Russia's first mobilisation since World War Two, declared by President Vladimir Putin on Sept. 21, has led to widespread discontent among officials and citizens over the way the draft has been handled, including complaints about enlistment officers sending call-up papers to clearly ineligible men.

"In 10 days, several thousand of our countrymen received summons and arrived at the military registration and enlistment offices," Mikhail Degtyarev, the governor of the Khabarovsk region in Russia's Far East, said in a video post on the Telegram messaging app.

"About half of them we returned home as they did not meet the selection criteria for entering the military service." 
 
ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-way-flight-tickets-from-russia-increase-by-27-amid-putins-mobilisation-call-522317">One-way flight tickets from Russia increase by 27% amid Putin's mobilisation call&nbsp;</a>

Degtyarev said the removal of the commissar, Yuri Laiko, would not affect the mobilisation plan set by Putin.

The chaotic mobilisation of men to fight in Ukraine has also prompted thousands of fighting-age men to flee from the country to avoid a draft that was billed as enlisting those with military experience and specialities but has often appeared oblivious to service records, health, student status and even age.

Some 2,000 people have been arrested at anti-war protests in more than 30 towns and cities, and some of them were promptly given call-up papers - something the Kremlin said was perfectly legal. 
 
&nbsp;

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The military commissar of Russia's Khabarovsk region was removed from his post after half of the newly mobilised personnel were sent home as they did not meet the draft criteria, the region's governor said early on Monday.

The military commissar of Russia's Khabarovsk region was removed from his post after half of the newly mobilised personnel were sent home as they did not meet the draft criteria, the region's governor said early on Monday. Russia's first mobilisation since World War Two, declared by President Vladimir Putin on Sept. 21, has led to widespread discontent among officials and citizens over the way the draft has been handled, including complaints about enlistment officers sending call-up papers to clearly ineligible men. "In 10 days, several thousand of our countrymen received summons and arrived at the military registration and enlistment offices," Mikhail Degtyarev, the governor of the Khabarovsk region in Russia's Far East, said in a video post on the Telegram messaging app. "About half of them we returned home as they did not meet the selection criteria for entering the military service." ALSO READ: One-way flight tickets from Russia increase by 27% amid Putin's mobilisation call Degtyarev said the removal of the commissar, Yuri Laiko, would not affect the mobilisation plan set by Putin. The chaotic mobilisation of men to fight in Ukraine has also prompted thousands of fighting-age men to flee from the country to avoid a draft that was billed as enlisting those with military experience and specialities but has often appeared oblivious to service records, health, student status and even age. Some 2,000 people have been arrested at anti-war protests in more than 30 towns and cities, and some of them were promptly given call-up papers - something the Kremlin said was perfectly legal. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Half of mobilised men in Russian region sent home, commissar fired - governor

Days after following the announcement of Russian President Vladimir Putin's order to mobilise thousands of Russians for the conflict in Ukraine, Russian men are now finding their way to Georgia to avoid being called up for a fight they do not support. However, there are no clear calculations to define how many Russians have left the country.&nbsp;

As per Russian media and local officials, the projected wait time to enter Georgia at one point on Sunday is 48 hours, and now over 3,000 vehicles are lined up to cross the border. The official statistics stated that till now, Tbilisi, Georgia's capital, has witnessed an influx of approximately 40,000 Russians.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-partial-military-mobilisation-exactly-518528">Also read |&nbsp;What is partial military mobilisation exactly?</a>

In conversation with Reuters, Dmitry Kuriliyunok, an army reservist, said that as soon as they found out about mobilisation, they left everything behind and rushed to the car, driving from Krasnodar to Mineralnye Vody, where they, along with his wife and daughter, arrived in Tbilisi a day later.

He said, "We are completely against this war. For us, like for others, it's scary. To die and to kill others, and for what? We don't understand. Therefore, we decided to flee," Reuters reported.

Not just now, a few Russians flew to neighbouring countries months or days before the announcement of mobilisation came due to their dismay over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-full-day-of-mobilisation-in-russia-marked-by-tears-and-protests-reports-suggest-100-conscription-518945">Also read |&nbsp;First full day of mobilisation in Russia marked by tears and protests, reports suggest 100% conscription</a>

However, the influx of newcomers to Tbilisi poses a risk of reigniting simmering anti-Russian sentiment among Georgia's locals.&nbsp;

In Tbilisi, several shops, museums, and other infrastructural properties were plastered with Ukrainian flags. Locals demanded Russians go back home as they believed everything was normal for them, but now as they are being forced to get involved in the war, they are now protesting.

Border crossings with Kazakhstan, Finland, and Mongolia have also reported similar migrations to those at the Russia-Georgia border.&nbsp;

Currently, there are either no seats available on flights leaving from Moscow, or if there are, the tickets are at extremely expensive prices.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Days after following the announcement of Russian President Vladimir Putin's order to mobilise thousands of Russians for the conflict in Ukraine, Russian men are now finding their way to Georgia to avoid being called up for a fight they do not support.

Days after following the announcement of Russian President Vladimir Putin's order to mobilise thousands of Russians for the conflict in Ukraine, Russian men are now finding their way to Georgia to avoid being called up for a fight they do not support. However, there are no clear calculations to define how many Russians have left the country. As per Russian media and local officials, the projected wait time to enter Georgia at one point on Sunday is 48 hours, and now over 3,000 vehicles are lined up to cross the border. The official statistics stated that till now, Tbilisi, Georgia's capital, has witnessed an influx of approximately 40,000 Russians. Also read | What is partial military mobilisation exactly? In conversation with Reuters, Dmitry Kuriliyunok, an army reservist, said that as soon as they found out about mobilisation, they left everything behind and rushed to the car, driving from Krasnodar to Mineralnye Vody, where they, along with his wife and daughter, arrived in Tbilisi a day later. He said, "We are completely against this war. For us, like for others, it's scary. To die and to kill others, and for what? We don't understand. Therefore, we decided to flee," Reuters reported. Not just now, a few Russians flew to neighbouring countries months or days before the announcement of mobilisation came due to their dismay over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Also read | First full day of mobilisation in Russia marked by tears and protests, reports suggest 100% conscription However, the influx of newcomers to Tbilisi poses a risk of reigniting simmering anti-Russian sentiment among Georgia's locals. In Tbilisi, several shops, museums, and other infrastructural properties were plastered with Ukrainian flags. Locals demanded Russians go back home as they believed everything was normal for them, but now as they are being forced to get involved in the war, they are now protesting. Border crossings with Kazakhstan, Finland, and Mongolia have also reported similar migrations to those at the Russia-Georgia border. Currently, there are either no seats available on flights leaving from Moscow, or if there are, the tickets are at extremely expensive prices. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Thousands of Russians flee to Georgia amid Putin's mobilisation announcement

In Pics | Thousands of Hasidic Jews gather in Ukrainian city of Uman for annual pilgrimage despite war

Almost $1 trillion worth of damage has been caused by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a government official in Kyiv claimed on Thursday as the war decimates the nation's economy.&nbsp;

According to Oleg Ustenko, President Volodymyr Zelensky's economic counsellor, Ukraine had suffered "somewhere close to $1 trillion" in damages in terms of "direct and indirect costs."&nbsp;

Ustenko stated at a gathering organised by the German Council on Foreign Relations in Berlin said the sum was equal to five times Ukraine's yearly GDP prior to the invasion in February.&nbsp;

Ukraine suffered a damage of about $100 billion in the first two weeks of the battle, according to an official estimate.

According to Ustenko, the conflict's devastation and displacement posed a "significant problem for public financing."&nbsp;

Many of the enterprises that were still operating "were not working at full capacity or they are working just several hours a day," he claimed.&nbsp;

It indicates that the budget will receive significantly less money than previously anticipated.&nbsp;

Ustenko claimed that despite significant budget cuts, the Ukrainian government had been incurring a five billion euro ($4.9 billion) monthly deficit ever since the invasion.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-two-companies-control-40-of-global-commercial-seed-market-report-518685">Only two companies control 40% of global commercial seed market: Report</a>

Kyiv anticipated that the gap would close to about 3.5 billion euros in 2023, he continued.&nbsp;

To fill the gap, allies have hurriedly poured help into Ukraine, with the World Bank, the European Union, and the G7 promising billions of dollars in funding.&nbsp;

Ustenko stated that the Ukrainian government anticipated a 35–40 per cent&nbsp;decline in the economy this year.&nbsp;

According to him, the decline was the "deepest decline in our GDP that we have experienced since 1991" and the establishment of the current Ukrainian state.

(with inputs from agencies)

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Almost $1 trillion worth of damage has been caused by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a government official in Kyiv claimed on Thursday as the war decimates the nation's economy.

Almost $1 trillion worth of damage has been caused by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a government official in Kyiv claimed on Thursday as the war decimates the nation's economy. According to Oleg Ustenko, President Volodymyr Zelensky's economic counsellor, Ukraine had suffered "somewhere close to $1 trillion" in damages in terms of "direct and indirect costs." Ustenko stated at a gathering organised by the German Council on Foreign Relations in Berlin said the sum was equal to five times Ukraine's yearly GDP prior to the invasion in February. Ukraine suffered a damage of about $100 billion in the first two weeks of the battle, according to an official estimate. According to Ustenko, the conflict's devastation and displacement posed a "significant problem for public financing." Many of the enterprises that were still operating "were not working at full capacity or they are working just several hours a day," he claimed. It indicates that the budget will receive significantly less money than previously anticipated. Ustenko claimed that despite significant budget cuts, the Ukrainian government had been incurring a five billion euro ($4.9 billion) monthly deficit ever since the invasion. Also Read: Only two companies control 40% of global commercial seed market: Report Kyiv anticipated that the gap would close to about 3.5 billion euros in 2023, he continued. To fill the gap, allies have hurriedly poured help into Ukraine, with the World Bank, the European Union, and the G7 promising billions of dollars in funding. Ustenko stated that the Ukrainian government anticipated a 35–40 per cent decline in the economy this year. According to him, the decline was the "deepest decline in our GDP that we have experienced since 1991" and the establishment of the current Ukrainian state. (with inputs from agencies)

Russian invasion has caused $1 trillion worth of damage to Ukraine: Report

Russian-backed representatives of at least four regions in Ukraine have said they will hold a referendum on joining Russia in the coming days.

Leaders in four regions of Ukraine announce referendum

Residents of Kyiv stood in line for hours outside McDonald's restaurants on Tuesday (September 20), as the American fast-food brand reopened three locations in the Ukrainian capital for the first time since Russia's invasion started nearly seven months ago.

The locations only offered delivery services when they first opened, but some customers were so eager to have their food that they waited outside the eateries to pick it up from the couriers standing in line next to them.

For some, the meals provided a taste of life prior to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-slams-reports-of-mass-graves-in-izyum-accuses-ukraine-of-fabricating-its-discoveries-517911">invasion</a> and highlighted a difference with Russia, where McDonald's withdrew its operations in response to Western opposition to the&nbsp;conflict.

"I would really like to detach from the bad vibe of the war and be in those times before the full-scale Russian invasion. This (McDonald's) is what symbolises that time (before the war)," said Denys, an 18-year-old management student, one of the lucky ones to get a meal just in time for lunch.

When he learned that the fast food restaurant had reopened its delivery service, Denys' friend Oleh, who is also a student, opted to work extra shifts to supplement his income.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-will-match-military-aid-spent-on-ukraine-next-year-says-pm-liz-truss-517962">UK will match military aid spent on Ukraine next year, says PM Liz Truss</a>

Due to the overwhelming demand, orders were no longer being taken by the neighbourhood Glovo delivery service.

Anastasiia Tolchynska, a bank employee, 29, joined the line outside the restaurant to place orders for herself and her coworkers.

"I am happy we have <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-mcdonalds-employees-suffer-sexual-harassment-report-517819">McDonald's</a> and the Russians don't and won't have it. Let the truth be on our side and let (international) business support the truth," she said, even though her order couldn't get through the overloaded system.

More McDonald's locations in western Ukraine will be reopened in the next weeks, and beginning next month, patrons will be allowed to place orders and eat inside the restaurants.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Residents of Kyiv stood in line for hours outside McDonald's restaurants on Tuesday (September 20), as the American fast-food brand reopened three locations in the Ukrainian capital for the first time since Russia's invasion started nearly seven months ago.

Residents of Kyiv stood in line for hours outside McDonald's restaurants on Tuesday (September 20), as the American fast-food brand reopened three locations in the Ukrainian capital for the first time since Russia's invasion started nearly seven months ago. The locations only offered delivery services when they first opened, but some customers were so eager to have their food that they waited outside the eateries to pick it up from the couriers standing in line next to them. For some, the meals provided a taste of life prior to the invasion and highlighted a difference with Russia, where McDonald's withdrew its operations in response to Western opposition to the conflict. "I would really like to detach from the bad vibe of the war and be in those times before the full-scale Russian invasion. This (McDonald's) is what symbolises that time (before the war)," said Denys, an 18-year-old management student, one of the lucky ones to get a meal just in time for lunch. When he learned that the fast food restaurant had reopened its delivery service, Denys' friend Oleh, who is also a student, opted to work extra shifts to supplement his income. Also read | UK will match military aid spent on Ukraine next year, says PM Liz Truss Due to the overwhelming demand, orders were no longer being taken by the neighbourhood Glovo delivery service. Anastasiia Tolchynska, a bank employee, 29, joined the line outside the restaurant to place orders for herself and her coworkers. "I am happy we have McDonald's and the Russians don't and won't have it. Let the truth be on our side and let (international) business support the truth," she said, even though her order couldn't get through the overloaded system. More McDonald's locations in western Ukraine will be reopened in the next weeks, and beginning next month, patrons will be allowed to place orders and eat inside the restaurants. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Pure happiness': McDonald's reopens in Kyiv, but for delivery only