Ukraine retakes key territory Putin vows to press attack on Ukraine Why did Russian defences crumble? Is the tide turning? Watch WION Wideangle

WION Wideangle | Russia-Ukraine War: Is the tide changing?

Seven months since the war in Ukraine began and there is no sign of conflict ending anytime soon. Where is the war heading? What does US intelligence have to say on Putin's war?

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin may need to change his plans, says US

As Europe deals with rising energy prices, the crisis will force the Eiffel Tower, one of the most visited monuments in the world, whose sparkling lights characterise the night time in the Paris skyline, to go dark early.

However, to honour Queen Elisabeth II's passing on Thursday night, the Eiffel Tower went dark, a remarkable gesture.

The decision to reduce lighting is viewed as a means to serve as an example of the overall decrease in the city's light.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-thing-reliable-from-russia-is-lies-faced-with-energy-crisis-germany-takes-a-u-turn-to-nuclear-energy-513306">Also read |&nbsp;'Only thing reliable from Russia is lies': Faced with energy crisis Germany takes a U-turn to nuclear energy</a>

The tower's nighttime lighting accounts for 4 per cent of its annual energy consumption.

The continent is dealing with soaring energy prices, made worse by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Paris is expected to recommend this week that the monument will go black more than an hour earlier than usual.

The Eiffel Tower currently has a sophisticated lighting system that illuminates it from dark until one in the morning, giving it a golden glow. In addition, 20,000 flashing bulbs give the monument a five-minute glitter every hour starting at dusk. The tower will no longer shine at midnight if the city's hall proposes to have it go dark at 11:45 pm when the last visitors leave.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-protests-across-europe-over-energy-crisis-513394">Also read |&nbsp;In pics | Protests across Europe over energy crisis</a>

Tower's management head, Jean Francois Martins, said, "It’s a highly symbolic gesture – part of the growing awareness around energy sobriety," The Guardian reported.&nbsp;

The monument nearly receives at least 20,000 visitors each day.

By the end of September, Marseille's monuments, including the Pharo Palace, will turn off the lights earlier as well. Other authorities also plan to reduce the nighttime lighting of renowned locations.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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As Europe deals with rising energy prices, the crisis will force the Eiffel Tower, one of the most visited monuments in the world, whose sparkling lights characterise the night time in the Paris skyline, to go dark early.

As Europe deals with rising energy prices, the crisis will force the Eiffel Tower, one of the most visited monuments in the world, whose sparkling lights characterise the night time in the Paris skyline, to go dark early. However, to honour Queen Elisabeth II's passing on Thursday night, the Eiffel Tower went dark, a remarkable gesture. The decision to reduce lighting is viewed as a means to serve as an example of the overall decrease in the city's light. Also read | 'Only thing reliable from Russia is lies': Faced with energy crisis Germany takes a U-turn to nuclear energy The tower's nighttime lighting accounts for 4 per cent of its annual energy consumption. The continent is dealing with soaring energy prices, made worse by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Paris is expected to recommend this week that the monument will go black more than an hour earlier than usual. The Eiffel Tower currently has a sophisticated lighting system that illuminates it from dark until one in the morning, giving it a golden glow. In addition, 20,000 flashing bulbs give the monument a five-minute glitter every hour starting at dusk. The tower will no longer shine at midnight if the city's hall proposes to have it go dark at 11:45 pm when the last visitors leave. Also read | In pics | Protests across Europe over energy crisis Tower's management head, Jean Francois Martins, said, "It’s a highly symbolic gesture – part of the growing awareness around energy sobriety," The Guardian reported. The monument nearly receives at least 20,000 visitors each day. By the end of September, Marseille's monuments, including the Pharo Palace, will turn off the lights earlier as well. Other authorities also plan to reduce the nighttime lighting of renowned locations. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Amid energy crisis in Europe, Eiffel Tower to go dark early 

A recent report released by the UN, the human rights chief claimed that anti-terrorism and anti-extremism policies led by the government had led to serious human rights violations in China’s Xinjiang province. In other news, the legal team for US former President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that there was no "cause for alarm" during the FBI raid but still continues to seek a special master to review the documents. In other news, a US official stating US information claimed that the Russian military is seeking to enlist contract service members and can even draw convicted criminals due to a manpower shortage in Ukraine. Finally, the US Open 2022 saw Serena Williams move to the third round with a tenacious victory over Estonian Anett Kontaveit on Thursday.

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/serious-human-rights-violations-committed-in-chinas-xinjiang-un-human-rights-chief-511904">Serious human rights violations committed in China's Xinjiang: UN human rights chief</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/09/01/292027-00032h287w.jpg" />

More than a million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities are allegedly being detained by Beijing in western Xinjiang.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-lawyers-say-discover-of-classified-records-in-fbi-raid-no-cause-for-alarm-511927">Donald Trump's lawyers say discovery of classified records in FBI raid ‘no cause for alarm’</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/04/11/254009-donald-trump.jpg" />

"Simply put, the notion that Presidential records would contain sensitive information should have never been cause for alarm," Trump’s lawyers told the judge according to Reuters.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-military-may-begin-recruiting-convicted-criminals-us-intelligence-511902">Russian military may begin recruiting 'convicted criminals': US intelligence</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/09/01/292023-g5g6wexoiflyxfr7ryglsqas3u.jpg" />

As the conflict in Ukraine approaches its seventh month, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on Thursday increasing the strength of Russia's armed forces from 1.9 million to 2.04 million.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-marches-on-in-us-open-beats-no2-seed-anett-kontaveit-511907">Serena Williams marches on in US Open, beats No.2 seed Anett Kontaveit</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/09/01/292025-00032hf4r4.jpg" />

The 40-year-old, who is expected to officially announce her retirement at the end of the tournament, showed brilliant fight to clinch the encounter 7-6, 2-6, 6-2.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;EU decides to suspend 2007 visa facilitation deal with Russia

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-decides-to-suspend-2007-visa-facilitation-deal-with-russia-511931/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

A recent report released by the UN, the human rights chief claimed that anti-terrorism and anti-extremism policies led by the government had led to serious human rights violations in China’s Xinjiang province.

A recent report released by the UN, the human rights chief claimed that anti-terrorism and anti-extremism policies led by the government had led to serious human rights violations in China’s Xinjiang province. In other news, the legal team for US former President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that there was no "cause for alarm" during the FBI raid but still continues to seek a special master to review the documents. In other news, a US official stating US information claimed that the Russian military is seeking to enlist contract service members and can even draw convicted criminals due to a manpower shortage in Ukraine. Finally, the US Open 2022 saw Serena Williams move to the third round with a tenacious victory over Estonian Anett Kontaveit on Thursday. Click on the headlines to read more: Serious human rights violations committed in China's Xinjiang: UN human rights chief More than a million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities are allegedly being detained by Beijing in western Xinjiang. Donald Trump's lawyers say discovery of classified records in FBI raid ‘no cause for alarm’ "Simply put, the notion that Presidential records would contain sensitive information should have never been cause for alarm," Trump’s lawyers told the judge according to Reuters. Russian military may begin recruiting 'convicted criminals': US intelligence As the conflict in Ukraine approaches its seventh month, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on Thursday increasing the strength of Russia's armed forces from 1.9 million to 2.04 million. Serena Williams marches on in US Open, beats No.2 seed Anett Kontaveit The 40-year-old, who is expected to officially announce her retirement at the end of the tournament, showed brilliant fight to clinch the encounter 7-6, 2-6, 6-2. Watch | EU decides to suspend 2007 visa facilitation deal with Russia

Morning news brief: Human rights violation in China, Trump’s FBI records ‘no cause for alarm’, & more

After shutting its offices earlier in the month, US-based multinational technology giant Dell Technologies on Saturday (August 27) announced that it had completely ceased its operations in Russia.

After shutting its offices earlier in the month, US-based multinational technology giant Dell Technologies on Saturday (August 27) announced that it had completely ceased its operations in Russia. With the termination, Dell has joined the list of more than 300 global companies to have exited the Russian market, ever since it invaded Ukraine. Unlike other companies that acted on a whim and tried to wind up operations rather too quickly and suffered losses, Dell did it in phases. It halted the sales of its products and services in February, before closing the offices in mid-August. "Back in February, we made the decision to not sell, service, or support products in Russia, Belarus, and the Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine, in addition to the already embargoed Crimea," Dell spokesman Mike Siemienas was quoted as saying by Reuters. WATCH | Gravitas: Russia becomes the world's most sanctioned country × Meanwhile, according to state-run news agency TASS which quoted Russian deputy industry and trade minister Vasily Shpak, the majority of employees at Dell had been absorbed by Russian producers. "We are monitoring the development of the situation. According to our data, the vast majority of Dell's R&D centre specialists and support engineers in St. Petersburg and Moscow have already received job offers with competitive pay from Russian producers," said Shpak Read More: McDonald's to leave Russia after more than three decades over Ukraine conflict As reported extensively by WION, brands like McDonald's, Starbucks, Coca-Cola, Zara, H&M, and Netflix have all suspended operations in Russia. Spotify and Amazon have also hit a pause on their services in the country. Meanwhile, Citi bank, Goldman Sachs, IBM, Intel, Snapchat and Twitter are few of the other banking and technological giants to turn their backs on Russia. On the contrary, in Ukraine, after months of upheaval, the companies are starting to open their shutters. Reportedly, global fast-food giant McDonald, earlier this month announced that it was gearing for a phased reopening of its outlets in the war-torn country. Read more: McDonald's to open in a phased manner in Ukraine for the first time since war began (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Few weeks after closing offices, Dell winds up its operations in Russia for good

The United States announced that it will provide Kyiv with military aid worth $3 billion to train and equip the soldiers, as the Russia-Ukraine war completes its six months. In other news, two white police officers involved in a Black man’s death won’t be prosecuted. In other news, recent reports by the European Union agencies&nbsp;claimed that the continent is currently facing its worst drought in 500 years. Finally, after 45 years, NASA’s Voyager 2 launched in 1977, and spacecraft to the outer planets and beyond are still continuing their journey.

<o:p>Click on the headlines to read more:</o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-war-hit-6-months-us-to-provide-3-billion-in-fresh-military-aid-to-ukraine-509613">As war hit 6 months, US to provide $3 billion in fresh military aid to Ukraine</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/24/290010-war-1.jpg" />

&nbsp;

According to The Associated Press, which has cited US officials, the package is expected to be announced on Wednesday, the day the war hits the six-month mark and Ukraine celebrates its independence day.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-us-police-officers-involved-in-rayshard-brooks-shooting-not-to-face-any-charges-509611">Two US police officers involved in Rayshard Brooks shooting not to face any charges</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/24/290009-brooks.jpg" />

The decision comes two years after Rayshard Brooks was shot and killed outside a Wendy's restaurant following an altercation with the two officers who tried to arrest him for DUI.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-facing-worst-drought-in-almost-500-years-new-report-claims-509617">Europe facing worst drought in almost 500 years, new report claims</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/24/290017-5.png" />

In the last few months, several European nations have faced massive wildfires and extreme temperatures which have caused severe damage to both life and property.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-45-years-in-space-nasas-voyager-2-continues-its-interstellar-journey-509609">Watch: 45 years in space, NASA’s Voyager 2 continues its interstellar journey</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/24/290008-r-2.jpeg" />

Voyager 2 continued the Voyager mission's exploration of Uranus and Neptune whereas the original Voyager mission was limited to Jupiter and Saturn. On September 5 of the same year, Voyager 1 was launched into space.

Watch |&nbsp;Kyiv hosts forum on Crimea liberation, West warns Russia on new annexation plan

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kyiv-hosts-forum-on-crimea-liberation-west-warns-russia-on-new-annexation-plan-509628/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The United States announced that it will provide Kyiv with military aid worth $3 billion to train and equip the soldiers, as the Russia-Ukraine war completes its six months.

The United States announced that it will provide Kyiv with military aid worth $3 billion to train and equip the soldiers, as the Russia-Ukraine war completes its six months. In other news, two white police officers involved in a Black man’s death won’t be prosecuted. In other news, recent reports by the European Union agencies claimed that the continent is currently facing its worst drought in 500 years. Finally, after 45 years, NASA’s Voyager 2 launched in 1977, and spacecraft to the outer planets and beyond are still continuing their journey. Click on the headlines to read more: As war hit 6 months, US to provide $3 billion in fresh military aid to Ukraine According to The Associated Press, which has cited US officials, the package is expected to be announced on Wednesday, the day the war hits the six-month mark and Ukraine celebrates its independence day. Two US police officers involved in Rayshard Brooks shooting not to face any charges The decision comes two years after Rayshard Brooks was shot and killed outside a Wendy's restaurant following an altercation with the two officers who tried to arrest him for DUI. Europe facing worst drought in almost 500 years, new report claims In the last few months, several European nations have faced massive wildfires and extreme temperatures which have caused severe damage to both life and property. Watch: 45 years in space, NASA’s Voyager 2 continues its interstellar journey Voyager 2 continued the Voyager mission's exploration of Uranus and Neptune whereas the original Voyager mission was limited to Jupiter and Saturn. On September 5 of the same year, Voyager 1 was launched into space. Watch | Kyiv hosts forum on Crimea liberation, West warns Russia on new annexation plan

Morning news brief: US announces $3 billion in military aid to Ukraine, Europe facing worst drought, & more

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Reports that Russia intends to try Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) in Russian-occupied Mariupol have raised concerns with the UN Human Rights Office. According to a UN spokeswoman, there is evidence that metal cages are being constructed in the music hall of the Ukrainian city, "presumably to restrain prisoners of war during hearings."&nbsp;

According to the UN, it is a war crime to prosecute POWs for taking part in hostilities. Russia has previously refuted allegations that it mistreats prisoners of war.&nbsp;

Recent social media posts, including those made by Ukrainian officials, appear to show metal cages being constructed on the philharmonic hall's stage.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> has informed international partners about the intentions of the Russian Federation to commit a flagrant war crime — the sham trial of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukrainian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukrainian</a> prisoners of war, defenders of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mariupol?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mariupol</a>.<a href="https://t.co/pKXplvzSiU">https://t.co/pKXplvzSiU</a> <a href="https://t.co/S0soUMCMNi">pic.twitter.com/S0soUMCMNi</a>
— UKR Mission to NATO (@UKRinNATO) <a href="https://twitter.com/UKRinNATO/status/1562187628706922498?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In Mariupol, on August 24, Russian occupiers plan to judge Ukrainian prisoners in cages on the stage of a destroyed theater. We need to shout about it!!! I don't want it to be allowed. Ukrainian heroes defended us to the last!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AzovstalDefenders?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AzovstalDefenders</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Azov?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Azov</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MariupolTribunal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MariupolTribunal</a> <a href="https://t.co/T1WUT3MLml">pic.twitter.com/T1WUT3MLml</a>
— даша чи дарина (@darinapoda) <a href="https://twitter.com/darinapoda/status/1562044320789807107?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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🇺🇦🇷🇺 Vladimir Zelensky said that negotiations between Kiev and Moscow would be impossible if a trial of Ukrainian prisoners of war takes place in Mariupol. 
 
And who said that we need negotiations? And the cages for the Ukronazis are already ready😁 <a href="https://t.co/X4nNp7ju6C">pic.twitter.com/X4nNp7ju6C</a>
— yugo antifascist ☭ 🚩komintern affiliated media. (@AntifaYugo) <a href="https://twitter.com/AntifaYugo/status/1561971245993844736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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‼️pushilin the leader of the so-called DNR,said that Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s demands wouldn’t affect plans to hold a tribunal for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukrainian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukrainian</a> prisoners of war in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mariupol?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mariupol</a> 
 
‼️According to him,the materials for the tribunal are already fully ready<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/russiaisaterroriststate?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#russiaisaterroriststate</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AZOV?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AZOV</a> <a href="https://t.co/ozkrQe2bzD">pic.twitter.com/ozkrQe2bzD</a>
— Анастасія (@B__ANASTASIYA) <a href="https://twitter.com/B__ANASTASIYA/status/1561662559832391680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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As per BBC reports, images were shot within the last four to five days and match the venue's interior.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

According to allegations made by Ukraine's intelligence service, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-six-months-into-the-russia-ukraine-war-what-are-the-consequences-so-far-509615?UTM_SRC=breakingnews">Russia</a> intends to perform mock trials for Ukrainian POWs who were seized while defending the city before it was taken by Russian forces in May.&nbsp;

At a news conference, Ravina Shamdasani, a spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, stated that such plans were "not acceptable" and "humiliating," adding that it seemed that the prisoners of war would be restrained during proceedings in these cages.&nbsp;

She continued by saying that the UN is worried that POWs who are accused of crimes won't get a fair trial.&nbsp;

Ms Shamdasani also voiced worry over Russia's refusal to allow Ukrainian POWs access to impartial observers like the UN and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which she claimed could put them at risk of being tortured to get a confession.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;How Russia-Ukraine war rattled markets?

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-russia-ukraine-war-rattled-markets-509665/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

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. Reports that Russia intends to try Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) in Russian-occupied Mariupol have raised concerns with the UN Human Rights Office. According to a UN spokeswoman, there is evidence that metal cages are being constructed in the music hall of the Ukrainian city, "presumably to restrain prisoners of war during hearings." According to the UN, it is a war crime to prosecute POWs for taking part in hostilities. Russia has previously refuted allegations that it mistreats prisoners of war. Recent social media posts, including those made by Ukrainian officials, appear to show metal cages being constructed on the philharmonic hall's stage. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. #Ukraine has informed international partners about the intentions of the Russian Federation to commit a flagrant war crime — the sham trial of #Ukrainian prisoners of war, defenders of #Mariupol.https://t.co/pKXplvzSiU pic.twitter.com/S0soUMCMNi — UKR Mission to NATO (@UKRinNATO) August 23, 2022 × In Mariupol, on August 24, Russian occupiers plan to judge Ukrainian prisoners in cages on the stage of a destroyed theater. We need to shout about it!!! I don't want it to be allowed. Ukrainian heroes defended us to the last!#AzovstalDefenders #Azov#MariupolTribunal pic.twitter.com/T1WUT3MLml — даша чи дарина (@darinapoda) August 23, 2022 × 🇺🇦🇷🇺 Vladimir Zelensky said that negotiations between Kiev and Moscow would be impossible if a trial of Ukrainian prisoners of war takes place in Mariupol. And who said that we need negotiations? And the cages for the Ukronazis are already ready😁 pic.twitter.com/X4nNp7ju6C — yugo antifascist ☭ 🚩komintern affiliated media. (@AntifaYugo) August 23, 2022 × ‼️pushilin the leader of the so-called DNR,said that Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s demands wouldn’t affect plans to hold a tribunal for #Ukrainian prisoners of war in #Mariupol ‼️According to him,the materials for the tribunal are already fully ready#russiaisaterroriststate#AZOV pic.twitter.com/ozkrQe2bzD — Анастасія (@B__ANASTASIYA) August 22, 2022 × As per BBC reports, images were shot within the last four to five days and match the venue's interior. According to allegations made by Ukraine's intelligence service, Russia intends to perform mock trials for Ukrainian POWs who were seized while defending the city before it was taken by Russian forces in May. At a news conference, Ravina Shamdasani, a spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, stated that such plans were "not acceptable" and "humiliating," adding that it seemed that the prisoners of war would be restrained during proceedings in these cages. She continued by saying that the UN is worried that POWs who are accused of crimes won't get a fair trial. Ms Shamdasani also voiced worry over Russia's refusal to allow Ukrainian POWs access to impartial observers like the UN and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which she claimed could put them at risk of being tortured to get a confession. WATCH | How Russia-Ukraine war rattled markets?

Ukraine war: UN condemns cages put up in Mariupol concert hall for prisoners of war

Russia launched rockets early on Monday at cities in southern Ukraine, to the west of the continent's largest nuclear power plant, while Kyiv, the country's capital, has forbidden celebrations of the country's independence&nbsp;from Soviet authority this week out of concern for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-topless-protestors-surround-olaf-scholz-at-a-public-event-demand-ban-on-russian-gas-imports-508977">Russian </a>assaults.

There have been requests for the demilitarisation of the area around the Zaporizhzhia nuclear reactor complex, which is near to artillery and rocket fire, on the Russian-occupied south bank of the Dnipro River.

The frequent shelling, some of which grazed the plant, has been blamed on both Russia and Ukraine. Despite being controlled mostly by Ukrainian experts, it was taken over by Russian forces soon after their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-gears-up-for-intensified-attacks-following-moscow-car-bombing-509001">invasion of Ukraine</a> in February.

At least four people were hurt by Russian rocket salvos that were launched overnight into Nikopol, across the Dnipro from Russian-occupied Enerhodar, where the Zaporizhzhia plant is located, as well as the surrounding Krivyi Rih and Synelnykovsky districts, regional governor Valentyn Reznichenko reported on Telegram on Monday.

<img alt="Russia- ukraine war" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="815c9b49-576b-4bcb-8711-9a52d867a681" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2022-08-22T072529Z_2_LYNXMPEI7L03T_RTROPTP_4_UKRAINE-CRISIS-BAKHMUT.JPG" />

Son hugs his mom, during the evacuation from war-affected&nbsp;areas&nbsp;in eastern Ukraine, as&nbsp;Russia's attack in Ukraine continues, in Bakhmut, Donetsk region, Ukraine August 20, 2022. Photo credits: Reuters

In addition, Ukraine said that Russia had launched a missile attack on Voznesensk, which is southwest of the nation's second-largest nuclear power plant.

In a phone discussion on Sunday, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and US President Joe Biden emphasised the significance of protecting the safety and security of Ukraine's nuclear plants.

While reiterating their "steadfast commitment" to assist Ukraine in the situation, they also welcomed recent discussions on permitting a mission by the U.N. nuclear watchdog&nbsp;

On February 24, Russia launched a "special military operation" to demilitarise its smaller neighbour and defend Russian-speaking areas. Moscow is accused of pursuing an imperial-style war of conquest by Ukraine and its Western sponsors.

The war, which is the largest to affect Europe since World War Two, has destroyed towns and cities, claimed thousands of lives, driven millions from their homes, and widened the geopolitical divide between Russia and the West.

The fighting has been centred in the east and south where frontlines have remained virtually stagnant for weeks since Ukraine successfully resisted a Russian assault to capture Kyiv early in the conflict.

CELEBRATING INDEPENDENCE DAY IS PROHIBITED

Prior to Wednesday's 31st anniversary of Ukraine's independence from Russian-dominated Soviet government, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy issued a warning about the possibility of additional serious attacks.

According to a statement made public by the Kyiv military administration and signed by its head Mykola Zhyrnov, big public events, demonstrations, and other commemorative gatherings have been outlawed in the capital city from Monday through Thursday owing to the potential for rocket strikes.

In the days leading up to Wednesday, which also happens to be the halfway point since Russia's invasion, Zelenskiy warned that Moscow might try "something extremely unpleasant."

Zelenskiy claimed that he had spoken with his French counterpart about "all the threats," and that he had also informed other world leaders, such as Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

In his nightly video message, Zelenskiy stated of Russia, "All of Ukraine's partners have been notified of what the terrorist state can prepare for this week."

Erdogan attempted to encourage communication, according to Gennady Gatilov, the Russian ambassador to the UN in Geneva, who was reported by The Financial Times in a piece that was published on Sunday.

However, he denied rumours that Zelenskiy and Russian President Vladimir Putin had discussed meeting, claiming that there was no "practical basis for doing so," according to the ne

RUSSIA'S SMALL PROGRESS IN THE SOUTH

The city of Mykolaiv, a significant target in the south, has come under attack by Russian forces, according to the Ukraine's General Staff, which reported the development in its morning briefing on Monday.

Additionally, Russia was attempting to restore momentum in the direction of Pisky, Bakhmut, and Kramatorsk, important towns in the Donetsk province that together with the neighbouring Luhansk, which was taken by Moscow's forces earlier in the summer, make up the eastern Donbas region.

The Soledar, Zaytseve, and Bilogorivka regions near Bakhmut were heavily targeted by Russian artillery and multiple rocket launcher systems, according to an update from the Ukrainian military command.

The regional administration said that at least two citizens died. Russia denies committing civilian targets. The daughter of Alexander Dugin, an ultra-nationalist Russian theorist who favours Russia absorbing Ukraine, was killed in a suspected car bomb attack outside of Moscow, according to Russian authorities who are looking into the incident.

The Russian Foreign Ministry said there might be a connection to Ukraine, which a Zelenskiy advisor downplayed, even though investigators stated they were evaluating "all possibilities" while determining who was to blame.

Mykhailo Podolyak claimed on Ukrainian TV that Ukraine has nothing to do with this because it is neither a terrorist or criminal state like the Russian Federation.

Also watch |&nbsp;Ukraine: Russian missiles hit Bakhmut

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Russia launched rockets early on Monday at cities in southern Ukraine, to the west of the continent's largest nuclear power plant, while Kyiv, the country's capital, has forbidden celebrations of the country's independence from Soviet authority this week out of concern for Russian assaults.

Russia launched rockets early on Monday at cities in southern Ukraine, to the west of the continent's largest nuclear power plant, while Kyiv, the country's capital, has forbidden celebrations of the country's independence from Soviet authority this week out of concern for Russian assaults. There have been requests for the demilitarisation of the area around the Zaporizhzhia nuclear reactor complex, which is near to artillery and rocket fire, on the Russian-occupied south bank of the Dnipro River. The frequent shelling, some of which grazed the plant, has been blamed on both Russia and Ukraine. Despite being controlled mostly by Ukrainian experts, it was taken over by Russian forces soon after their invasion of Ukraine in February. At least four people were hurt by Russian rocket salvos that were launched overnight into Nikopol, across the Dnipro from Russian-occupied Enerhodar, where the Zaporizhzhia plant is located, as well as the surrounding Krivyi Rih and Synelnykovsky districts, regional governor Valentyn Reznichenko reported on Telegram on Monday. Son hugs his mom, during the evacuation from war-affected areas in eastern Ukraine, as Russia's attack in Ukraine continues, in Bakhmut, Donetsk region, Ukraine August 20, 2022. Photo credits: Reuters In addition, Ukraine said that Russia had launched a missile attack on Voznesensk, which is southwest of the nation's second-largest nuclear power plant. In a phone discussion on Sunday, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and US President Joe Biden emphasised the significance of protecting the safety and security of Ukraine's nuclear plants. While reiterating their "steadfast commitment" to assist Ukraine in the situation, they also welcomed recent discussions on permitting a mission by the U.N. nuclear watchdog On February 24, Russia launched a "special military operation" to demilitarise its smaller neighbour and defend Russian-speaking areas. Moscow is accused of pursuing an imperial-style war of conquest by Ukraine and its Western sponsors. The war, which is the largest to affect Europe since World War Two, has destroyed towns and cities, claimed thousands of lives, driven millions from their homes, and widened the geopolitical divide between Russia and the West. The fighting has been centred in the east and south where frontlines have remained virtually stagnant for weeks since Ukraine successfully resisted a Russian assault to capture Kyiv early in the conflict. CELEBRATING INDEPENDENCE DAY IS PROHIBITED Prior to Wednesday's 31st anniversary of Ukraine's independence from Russian-dominated Soviet government, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy issued a warning about the possibility of additional serious attacks. According to a statement made public by the Kyiv military administration and signed by its head Mykola Zhyrnov, big public events, demonstrations, and other commemorative gatherings have been outlawed in the capital city from Monday through Thursday owing to the potential for rocket strikes. In the days leading up to Wednesday, which also happens to be the halfway point since Russia's invasion, Zelenskiy warned that Moscow might try "something extremely unpleasant." Zelenskiy claimed that he had spoken with his French counterpart about "all the threats," and that he had also informed other world leaders, such as Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. In his nightly video message, Zelenskiy stated of Russia, "All of Ukraine's partners have been notified of what the terrorist state can prepare for this week." Erdogan attempted to encourage communication, according to Gennady Gatilov, the Russian ambassador to the UN in Geneva, who was reported by The Financial Times in a piece that was published on Sunday. However, he denied rumours that Zelenskiy and Russian President Vladimir Putin had discussed meeting, claiming that there was no "practical basis for doing so," according to the ne RUSSIA'S SMALL PROGRESS IN THE SOUTH The city of Mykolaiv, a significant target in the south, has come under attack by Russian forces, according to the Ukraine's General Staff, which reported the development in its morning briefing on Monday. Additionally, Russia was attempting to restore momentum in the direction of Pisky, Bakhmut, and Kramatorsk, important towns in the Donetsk province that together with the neighbouring Luhansk, which was taken by Moscow's forces earlier in the summer, make up the eastern Donbas region. The Soledar, Zaytseve, and Bilogorivka regions near Bakhmut were heavily targeted by Russian artillery and multiple rocket launcher systems, according to an update from the Ukrainian military command. The regional administration said that at least two citizens died. Russia denies committing civilian targets. The daughter of Alexander Dugin, an ultra-nationalist Russian theorist who favours Russia absorbing Ukraine, was killed in a suspected car bomb attack outside of Moscow, according to Russian authorities who are looking into the incident. The Russian Foreign Ministry said there might be a connection to Ukraine, which a Zelenskiy advisor downplayed, even though investigators stated they were evaluating "all possibilities" while determining who was to blame. Mykhailo Podolyak claimed on Ukrainian TV that Ukraine has nothing to do with this because it is neither a terrorist or criminal state like the Russian Federation. Also watch | Ukraine: Russian missiles hit Bakhmut

Ukraine bans Independence day celebrations as Russia launches rockets at locations near nuclear plant

Millions in Britain are braving for a much colder winter as sky-high energy prices are set to make it unaffordable for the majority to heat their homes. To provide an alternative, Britain's libraries and museums have stepped up, dubbing themselves as 'warm havens'.

Millions in Britain are braving for a much colder winter as sky-high energy prices are set to make it unaffordable for the majority to heat their homes. To provide an alternative, Britain's libraries and museums have stepped up, dubbing themselves as 'warm havens'. Reportedly, these public buildings will form a part of a network across the country, providing warm shelters to people to avoid the frigid cool temperatures outside. The main attempt of such 'warm havens' will be to help reduce excess winter deaths. In Pics | As it happened: Heatwave 2022 — 'Monster wildfire' in France, drought in England, China's Yangtze river shrinks “We are acutely aware of the huge impact that the energy crisis will have on many living within the local community. We will be promoting our libraries as designated ‘warm spaces’ for those who can’t afford to heat their homes.” said a library owner who had already spent $33,000 on new seats and furniture, anticipating the increase in visitors. While the onus is being put on the public buildings to fill the void, their own energy bills are touching record highs. Hence the ministers across the UK are being urged to release immediate funding, directed towards the public buildings. It is pertinent to note that while UK-based energy companies such as Centrica and Shell are having bumper profitable quarters, an average UK household is expected to shell as much as $5,000, come the winters. UK natural gas prices have risen nearly 96 per cent in the year to July, while electricity prices are up 54 per cent. Read more: UK gas major Centrica's profits soar amid sky-high energy prices The war between Ukraine and Russia has hit Europe the hardest. However, compared to other European countries, the energy bill prices in the UK have soared the most. Up until last year, Russia supplied the European Union, which the UK was part of once, with 40 per cent of its gas needs. However, that figure has dropped drastically this year as Russia continues to use its position of leverage to hurt Europe for supporting Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Museums and libraries to turn 'warm havens' in the UK to reduce winter deaths

Energy giant Shell has decided to give its workers a one-off bonus of eight percent. This comes as a result of the profit that the company recorded from high oil and gas prices. Shell has made it clear that the award is a reflection of its financial gains and has got nothing to do with the rising cost of living. The company reported second quarter profits of nine billion last week. Nearly 82,000 members of Shell’s staff worldwide will get this pay boost up and the top executives will be excluded from these benefits.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bp-profit-triples-to-93-bn-on-soaring-energy-prices-502930">BP profit triples to $9.3&nbsp;bn on soaring energy prices</a>

The war in Ukraine has contributed to this profit by fuelling higher prices of oil and gas. Russia has reduced supplies to Europe following the war and the disruption thereof has led to soaring wholesale prices of oil and gas. This, in turn has passed the costs on customers by increasing the energy bills. Thus,&nbsp;&nbsp;it has increased the profits of the firm. Not only Shell but its rival BP has also reported a record breaking high quarterly profits.&nbsp;

As reported by BBC, the company has said that "the award enables those employees to share in our current operational and financial success - it is not a response to inflation or cost-of-living challenges”.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/developing-countries-facing-major-food-inflation-due-to-ukraine-crisis-says-world-bank-502744">Developing countries facing major food inflation due to Ukraine crisis, says World Bank</a>

Around 5,000 of Shell's representatives in Britain are in line to profit from the reward. However, 1,200 employees of Shell Energy Retail- a loss-making household supply unit, will not receive the bonuses. Shell has likewise said it would return billions of dollars to its investors subsequent to its quarterly monetary profits last month.

Watch |&nbsp;Gas ban imposed as Latvian firm was paying in Euros to Russia&nbsp;

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Though various oil and gas companies are benefiting, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has called for oil and gas companies to face special taxes, calling it “immoral” for firms to be profiting from the Ukraine war. Further, he added that "This grotesque greed is punishing the poorest and most vulnerable people, while destroying our only common home”.&nbsp;</div>

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

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Energy giant Shell has decided to give its workers a one-off bonus of eight percent. This comes as a result of the profit that the company recorded from high oil and gas prices.

Energy giant Shell has decided to give its workers a one-off bonus of eight percent. This comes as a result of the profit that the company recorded from high oil and gas prices. Shell has made it clear that the award is a reflection of its financial gains and has got nothing to do with the rising cost of living. The company reported second quarter profits of nine billion last week. Nearly 82,000 members of Shell’s staff worldwide will get this pay boost up and the top executives will be excluded from these benefits. Also read | BP profit triples to $9.3 bn on soaring energy prices The war in Ukraine has contributed to this profit by fuelling higher prices of oil and gas. Russia has reduced supplies to Europe following the war and the disruption thereof has led to soaring wholesale prices of oil and gas. This, in turn has passed the costs on customers by increasing the energy bills. Thus, it has increased the profits of the firm. Not only Shell but its rival BP has also reported a record breaking high quarterly profits. As reported by BBC, the company has said that "the award enables those employees to share in our current operational and financial success - it is not a response to inflation or cost-of-living challenges”. Also read | Developing countries facing major food inflation due to Ukraine crisis, says World Bank Around 5,000 of Shell's representatives in Britain are in line to profit from the reward. However, 1,200 employees of Shell Energy Retail- a loss-making household supply unit, will not receive the bonuses. Shell has likewise said it would return billions of dollars to its investors subsequent to its quarterly monetary profits last month. Watch | Gas ban imposed as Latvian firm was paying in Euros to Russia Though various oil and gas companies are benefiting, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has called for oil and gas companies to face special taxes, calling it “immoral” for firms to be profiting from the Ukraine war. Further, he added that "This grotesque greed is punishing the poorest and most vulnerable people, while destroying our only common home”. (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.

Shell staff benefits from soaring energy bills

In pics: Damaged Russian military equipment on display in Prague

A Brazilian model who volunteered to fight with Ukraine was killed in a Russian missile strike, local media has reported. Thalita do Valle, a 39-year-old former model, had just been in Ukraine for three weeks. She had joined the sniper squad. On June 30, a Russian missile struck the Kharkiv region when Valle, along with other Ukrainian forces, was on a mission to rescue Ukrainians from a village that Russian troops had vacated. The missile hit her bunker, The Sun reported.

The missile strike also killed former Brazilian&nbsp;Army soldier Douglas Burigo, 40, who had returned to the bunker to find Thalito.

She was the only person left behind after the first missile strike, the other fighters said.

"She was a hero, and her calling was to save lives, running after humanitarian missions," her brother Theo Rodrigo Viera told Brazilian news outlet UOL

He said her role was as a rescuer, but she also provided cover for advancing troops.

Do Valle, a resident of Sao Paulo, was a former child actress and worked as a model after turning 18.

She also studied law and was passionate about animal activism, her family said, and she worked with NGOs to defend animal rights.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/even-as-ukraine-war-leaves-thousand-dead-russia-warns-humanity-at-risk-if-west-seeks-to-punish-it-495168">Even as Ukraine war leaves thousand dead, Russia warns humanity at risk if West seeks to punish it</a>

Do Valle received sniper training after joining Pashmergas, the armed military forces of the Kurdistan region of Iraq, according to&nbsp;news.com.au.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-parliament-gives-initial-approval-to-laws-for-a-war-economy-494678" hreflang="en">Russian parliament gives initial approval to laws for a war economy</a>

The 39-year-old woman had been on humanitarian missions around the world and previously fought against ISIS in Iraq.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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A Brazilian model who volunteered to fight with Ukraine was killed in a Russian missile strike, local media has reported. Thalita do Valle, a 39-year-old former model, had just been in Ukraine for three weeks.

A Brazilian model who volunteered to fight with Ukraine was killed in a Russian missile strike, local media has reported. Thalita do Valle, a 39-year-old former model, had just been in Ukraine for three weeks. She had joined the sniper squad. On June 30, a Russian missile struck the Kharkiv region when Valle, along with other Ukrainian forces, was on a mission to rescue Ukrainians from a village that Russian troops had vacated. The missile hit her bunker, The Sun reported. The missile strike also killed former Brazilian Army soldier Douglas Burigo, 40, who had returned to the bunker to find Thalito. She was the only person left behind after the first missile strike, the other fighters said. "She was a hero, and her calling was to save lives, running after humanitarian missions," her brother Theo Rodrigo Viera told Brazilian news outlet UOL He said her role was as a rescuer, but she also provided cover for advancing troops. Do Valle, a resident of Sao Paulo, was a former child actress and worked as a model after turning 18. She also studied law and was passionate about animal activism, her family said, and she worked with NGOs to defend animal rights. Also read | Even as Ukraine war leaves thousand dead, Russia warns humanity at risk if West seeks to punish it Do Valle received sniper training after joining Pashmergas, the armed military forces of the Kurdistan region of Iraq, according to news.com.au. Also read | Russian parliament gives initial approval to laws for a war economy The 39-year-old woman had been on humanitarian missions around the world and previously fought against ISIS in Iraq. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Brazilian model who volunteered for Ukrainian Army as sniper killed in Russian missile strike

Imran Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan, stated that Pakistan’s future is tied to Russia. Amid economic crisis, Pakistan is considering trading with Russia while the West has set out to punish the Russian President Vladimir Putin for the Ukraine war by imposing sanctions on Russian businesses and billionaires to blacklist. In an interview with German broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW), the struggling PTI leader said it was good to take a moral stance on the international stage but this shouldn’t come at the expense of its citizens.

In a conversation with DW, Khan said that he’s intended to protect the citizen’s interest and might also help the country to gain gas, oil and wheat from Russia. He said, “When you start condemning people you are taking sides.” He further added that choosing a moral stance is good but one should be powerful enough to take sides when your country is at risk, reported by ANI.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khans-wifes-close-aide-farah-khan-receive-a-red-corner-notice-494305">&nbsp;Pakistan: Moves on for 'red warrant' against Farah Khan, close aide of Imran Khan's wife</a>

Khan revealed the specifics of his journey to Moscow, where he arrived a day before the Russia-Ukraine conflict started. The former minster, “When I arrived in Moscow, the meeting was the next morning. When we woke up in the morning that`s when the invasion took place. ... Hardly did I know this would happen. Had I known, I certainly wouldn`t have taken the trip.”

Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan: Former PM Imran Khan blames government for super tax

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According to Geo News, Pakistan’s Energy Ministry requested industrial specialists to submit analyses on importing oil form Russian to obtain the commodities at a lower rate. In June, Pakistan’s monthly imports of fuel oil are anticipated to reach a four-year high.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pak-pm-imran-khan-calls-attack-on-journalist-worst-kind-of-fascism-493809">Former Pak PM Imran Khan calls attack on journalist 'worst kind of fascism'</a>

As per Refinitiv estimates, oil imports for the South Asian could increase to nearly 700,000 tonnes this month from 630,000 in May.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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(With inputs from agencies)

Imran Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan, stated that Pakistan’s future is tied to Russia. Amid economic crisis, Pakistan is considering trading with Russia while the West has set out to punish the Russian President Vladimir Putin for the Ukraine war by imposing sanctions on Russian businesses and billionaires to blacklist.

Imran Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan, stated that Pakistan’s future is tied to Russia. Amid economic crisis, Pakistan is considering trading with Russia while the West has set out to punish the Russian President Vladimir Putin for the Ukraine war by imposing sanctions on Russian businesses and billionaires to blacklist. In an interview with German broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW), the struggling PTI leader said it was good to take a moral stance on the international stage but this shouldn’t come at the expense of its citizens. In a conversation with DW, Khan said that he’s intended to protect the citizen’s interest and might also help the country to gain gas, oil and wheat from Russia. He said, “When you start condemning people you are taking sides.” He further added that choosing a moral stance is good but one should be powerful enough to take sides when your country is at risk, reported by ANI. Also read | Pakistan: Moves on for 'red warrant' against Farah Khan, close aide of Imran Khan's wife Khan revealed the specifics of his journey to Moscow, where he arrived a day before the Russia-Ukraine conflict started. The former minster, “When I arrived in Moscow, the meeting was the next morning. When we woke up in the morning that`s when the invasion took place. ... Hardly did I know this would happen. Had I known, I certainly wouldn`t have taken the trip.” Watch | Pakistan: Former PM Imran Khan blames government for super tax According to Geo News, Pakistan’s Energy Ministry requested industrial specialists to submit analyses on importing oil form Russian to obtain the commodities at a lower rate. In June, Pakistan’s monthly imports of fuel oil are anticipated to reach a four-year high. Also read | Former Pak PM Imran Khan calls attack on journalist 'worst kind of fascism' As per Refinitiv estimates, oil imports for the South Asian could increase to nearly 700,000 tonnes this month from 630,000 in May. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan’s future tied to Russia, says Imran Khan

Ukraine`s Lesia Tsurenko matched her best Wimbledon run as she beat seeded compatriot Anhelina Kalinina 3-6 6-4 6-3 in the second round on Wednesday. Both players had spoken of the strain of pursuing their careers following Russia`s invasion of their country and Tsurenko wore a yellow and blue ribbon on her white top. 
Kalinina, the 29th seed who described on Monday how her family home had been damaged by Russian shelling, opted not to follow suit.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-1-iga-swiatek-announces-charity-event-for-people-affected-by-ukraine-war-492983">World No. 1 Iga Swiatek announces charity event for people affected by Ukraine war</a>

Tsurenko, 33, used her extra experience to wear down her opponent and move through to the third round against Germany`s Jule Niemeier who beat second seed Anett Kontaveit. Reaching the third round is worth 90,000 pounds ($109,000) this year and Tsurenko is donating 10% of her prize money to help her fellow Ukrainians affected by the war.

She is the last Ukrainian player left in the singles after Marta Kostyuk was knocked out on Wednesday by Zhang Shuai.

Ukraine`s Lesia Tsurenko matched her best Wimbledon run as she beat seeded compatriot Anhelina Kalinina 3-6 6-4 6-3 in the second round on Wednesday. Both players had spoken of the strain of pursuing their careers following Russia`s invasion of their country and Tsurenko wore a yellow and blue ribbon on her white top.

Ukraine`s Lesia Tsurenko matched her best Wimbledon run as she beat seeded compatriot Anhelina Kalinina 3-6 6-4 6-3 in the second round on Wednesday. Both players had spoken of the strain of pursuing their careers following Russia`s invasion of their country and Tsurenko wore a yellow and blue ribbon on her white top. Kalinina, the 29th seed who described on Monday how her family home had been damaged by Russian shelling, opted not to follow suit. ALSO READ | World No. 1 Iga Swiatek announces charity event for people affected by Ukraine war Tsurenko, 33, used her extra experience to wear down her opponent and move through to the third round against Germany`s Jule Niemeier who beat second seed Anett Kontaveit. Reaching the third round is worth 90,000 pounds ($109,000) this year and Tsurenko is donating 10% of her prize money to help her fellow Ukrainians affected by the war. She is the last Ukrainian player left in the singles after Marta Kostyuk was knocked out on Wednesday by Zhang Shuai.

Veteran player Lesia Tsurenko flies flag for Ukraine in Wimbledon third round

Poland`s world number one Iga Swiatek has teamed up with fellow tennis players Agnieszka Radwanska, Elina Svitolina, Sergiy Stakhovsky and Martyn Pawelski for a one-day special event to raise funds for people affected by Russia`s invasion of Ukraine.

"Iga Swiatek &amp; Friends for Ukraine", scheduled for July 23 in Poland`s Krakow, will feature a mixed doubles match and a set of singles between Swiatek and compatriot Radwanska. Both matches will be umpired by Ukrainian Svitolina.

"For months I have been working with my team on a charity initiative for Ukraine to support those who suffer because of the war," French Open champion Swiatek said in a statement on social media&nbsp;on Wednesday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2022-iga-swiatek-nick-kyrgios-and-coco-gauff-proceed-ahead-492692">Wimbledon 2022: Iga Swiatek, Nick Kyrgios and Coco Gauff proceed ahead</a>

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🇺🇦 Od miesięcy pracowałam z moim zespołem nad inicjatywą pomocową dla Ukrainy, aby realnie wesprzeć tych, którzy cierpią z powodu wojny. 
 
🇺🇦 For months I have been working with my team on a charity initiative for Ukraine to support those who suffer because of the war... 
MORE ⤵️ <a href="https://t.co/3MeOI3d1W1">pic.twitter.com/3MeOI3d1W1</a>
— Iga Świątek (@iga_swiatek) <a href="https://twitter.com/iga_swiatek/status/1542100612619329536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"There will also be a special guest representing Ukraine - former (Ukraine) football player Andriy Shevchenko." Ukraine was invaded by Russia in February in what Moscow calls a "special military operation". Swiatek, who is on a 36-match winning streak, has been vocal about her support for the beleaguered country, sporting a blue and yellow ribbon on her hat in recent months.

The 21-year-old beat Jana Fett 6-0 6-3 in her opening round match at Wimbledon on Tuesday and takes on Lesley Pattinama Kerkhove on Thursday.

Poland`s world number one Iga Swiatek has teamed up with fellow tennis players Agnieszka Radwanska, Elina Svitolina, Sergiy Stakhovsky and Martyn Pawelski for a one-day special event to raise funds for people affected by Russia`s invasion of Ukraine.

Poland`s world number one Iga Swiatek has teamed up with fellow tennis players Agnieszka Radwanska, Elina Svitolina, Sergiy Stakhovsky and Martyn Pawelski for a one-day special event to raise funds for people affected by Russia`s invasion of Ukraine. "Iga Swiatek & Friends for Ukraine", scheduled for July 23 in Poland`s Krakow, will feature a mixed doubles match and a set of singles between Swiatek and compatriot Radwanska. Both matches will be umpired by Ukrainian Svitolina. "For months I have been working with my team on a charity initiative for Ukraine to support those who suffer because of the war," French Open champion Swiatek said in a statement on social media on Wednesday. ALSO READ | Wimbledon 2022: Iga Swiatek, Nick Kyrgios and Coco Gauff proceed ahead 🇺🇦 Od miesięcy pracowałam z moim zespołem nad inicjatywą pomocową dla Ukrainy, aby realnie wesprzeć tych, którzy cierpią z powodu wojny. 🇺🇦 For months I have been working with my team on a charity initiative for Ukraine to support those who suffer because of the war... MORE ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/3MeOI3d1W1 — Iga Świątek (@iga_swiatek) June 29, 2022 × "There will also be a special guest representing Ukraine - former (Ukraine) football player Andriy Shevchenko." Ukraine was invaded by Russia in February in what Moscow calls a "special military operation". Swiatek, who is on a 36-match winning streak, has been vocal about her support for the beleaguered country, sporting a blue and yellow ribbon on her hat in recent months. The 21-year-old beat Jana Fett 6-0 6-3 in her opening round match at Wimbledon on Tuesday and takes on Lesley Pattinama Kerkhove on Thursday.

World No. 1 Iga Swiatek announces charity event for people affected by Ukraine war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has accused Russia of being a “terrorist state” and said Moscow was capable of chemical weapon attacks.

Russia-Ukraine altercations escalate: Zelensky calls Russia ‘ a terror state’

The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) is holding talks with the British government on the participation of players from Russia and Belarus at this year's Wimbledon, saying on Tuesday that it hopes to announce a decision in mid-May.

Russian and Belarusian players have been allowed to compete on the regular ATP and WTA Tours but not under the name or flag of their countries following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Belarus was a key staging area for the invasion, which Russia says is a "special military operation."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/korea-open-malvika-bansod-beats-chinas-hue-yan-in-a-thriller-to-enter-second-round-468569">Korea Open: Malvika Bansod emerges on top of China's Hue Yan in a thriller to enter second round</a>

Russia was also banned from defending its Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup team titles.

"We have noted the UK Government's guidance regarding the attendance of Russian and Belarusian individuals in a neutral capacity at sporting events in the UK," the AELTC, organisers of the grasscourt Grand Slam, said in a statement.

"This remains a complex and challenging issue, and we are continuing to engage in discussion with the UK Government, the Lawn Tennis Association, and the international governing bodies of tennis.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/korea-open-indias-lakshya-sen-sweats-it-out-versus-choi-ji-hoon-to-earn-hard-fought-win-468547">Korea Open: India's Lakshya Sen sweats it out versus Choi Ji Hoon to earn hard-fought win</a>

"We plan to announce a decision in relation to Wimbledon ahead of our entry deadline in mid-May."

British Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston had said last month that he would not be comfortable with a "Russian athlete flying the Russian flag" and winning Wimbledon in London.

He added that U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev may have to provide assurances that he does not support Russian president Vladimir Putin if he is to compete.

Wimbledon will be held from June 27-July 10.

The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) is holding talks with the British government on the participation of players from Russia and Belarus at this year's Wimbledon, saying on Tuesday that it hopes to announce a decision in mid-May.

The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) is holding talks with the British government on the participation of players from Russia and Belarus at this year's Wimbledon, saying on Tuesday that it hopes to announce a decision in mid-May. Russian and Belarusian players have been allowed to compete on the regular ATP and WTA Tours but not under the name or flag of their countries following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Belarus was a key staging area for the invasion, which Russia says is a "special military operation." ALSO READ: Korea Open: Malvika Bansod emerges on top of China's Hue Yan in a thriller to enter second round Russia was also banned from defending its Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup team titles. "We have noted the UK Government's guidance regarding the attendance of Russian and Belarusian individuals in a neutral capacity at sporting events in the UK," the AELTC, organisers of the grasscourt Grand Slam, said in a statement. "This remains a complex and challenging issue, and we are continuing to engage in discussion with the UK Government, the Lawn Tennis Association, and the international governing bodies of tennis. ALSO READ: Korea Open: India's Lakshya Sen sweats it out versus Choi Ji Hoon to earn hard-fought win "We plan to announce a decision in relation to Wimbledon ahead of our entry deadline in mid-May." British Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston had said last month that he would not be comfortable with a "Russian athlete flying the Russian flag" and winning Wimbledon in London. He added that U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev may have to provide assurances that he does not support Russian president Vladimir Putin if he is to compete. Wimbledon will be held from June 27-July 10.

Wimbledon organisers holding talks with British government on participation of players from Russia, Belarus

World Refugee Day: Sparing thought for refugees amid Ukraine war

The secretary of agriculture on Thursday announced at the United Nations a three-year agriculture partnership between the United States and Ukraine to address global food insecurity, which has been exacerbated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The partnership, in the form of a memorandum of understanding, was signed virtually earlier this week by the secretary, Tom Vilsack, and Ukraine’s minister of agriculture. Vilsack said the agreement was focused on providing technical assistance to Ukraine, which before the war was the world’s fourth-largest exporter of grain and seeds, and helping the country rebuild its agriculture industry after the war ends.

Vilsack said the United States would take several other steps to address the crisis, including incentives to growers to expand their production and, accordingly, increase the amount of grain available for food aid.

The war in Ukraine has caused global food and energy prices to soar and risks creating grain supply shortages in countries in the Middle East, Asia and Africa that depend heavily on imported wheat and grain from Ukraine. The United Nations has warned that a global food crisis, already in the making because of climate change and the pandemic’s disruption of supply chains, would place hundreds of thousands of people at risk of starvation.

A global effort is underway to release some 25 million tons of Ukrainian grain that are trapped by Russia’s blockade of the country. The U.N. is also negotiating a deal in which Russia would allow transport of Ukrainian grain from ports in the Black Sea in exchange for exports of Russian fertilizers to the world market without the threat of sanctions.

“Food should not be a weapon,” Vilsack said. “It’s essential to get the grain most needed out of the ports.”

Turkey, which has played a mediating role in the food conflict, offered Wednesday to host four-way talks with Ukraine, Russia and the UN. But a breakthrough would require ports in Ukraine to be de-mined and ships to be escorted through safe corridors to avoid mines in the Black Sea. A UN&nbsp;spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, said Thursday that there was no update on negotiations.

Vilsack said that while negotiations for sea transportation continued, a parallel track was necessary to move and store grain overland through Romania and Poland by railway. This would reduce the risk of grain being stolen and would free up storage for Ukrainian farmers who will soon need to harvest winter crops, he said.

“These negotiations are incredibly important,” Vilsack said, but added: “We remain skeptical about the Russians and whether or not they are coming to this to get to the ultimate yes.”

The secretary of agriculture on Thursday announced at the United Nations a three-year agriculture partnership between the United States and Ukraine to address global food insecurity, which has been exacerbated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The secretary of agriculture on Thursday announced at the United Nations a three-year agriculture partnership between the United States and Ukraine to address global food insecurity, which has been exacerbated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The partnership, in the form of a memorandum of understanding, was signed virtually earlier this week by the secretary, Tom Vilsack, and Ukraine’s minister of agriculture. Vilsack said the agreement was focused on providing technical assistance to Ukraine, which before the war was the world’s fourth-largest exporter of grain and seeds, and helping the country rebuild its agriculture industry after the war ends. Vilsack said the United States would take several other steps to address the crisis, including incentives to growers to expand their production and, accordingly, increase the amount of grain available for food aid. The war in Ukraine has caused global food and energy prices to soar and risks creating grain supply shortages in countries in the Middle East, Asia and Africa that depend heavily on imported wheat and grain from Ukraine. The United Nations has warned that a global food crisis, already in the making because of climate change and the pandemic’s disruption of supply chains, would place hundreds of thousands of people at risk of starvation. A global effort is underway to release some 25 million tons of Ukrainian grain that are trapped by Russia’s blockade of the country. The U.N. is also negotiating a deal in which Russia would allow transport of Ukrainian grain from ports in the Black Sea in exchange for exports of Russian fertilizers to the world market without the threat of sanctions. “Food should not be a weapon,” Vilsack said. “It’s essential to get the grain most needed out of the ports.” Turkey, which has played a mediating role in the food conflict, offered Wednesday to host four-way talks with Ukraine, Russia and the UN. But a breakthrough would require ports in Ukraine to be de-mined and ships to be escorted through safe corridors to avoid mines in the Black Sea. A UN spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, said Thursday that there was no update on negotiations. Vilsack said that while negotiations for sea transportation continued, a parallel track was necessary to move and store grain overland through Romania and Poland by railway. This would reduce the risk of grain being stolen and would free up storage for Ukrainian farmers who will soon need to harvest winter crops, he said. “These negotiations are incredibly important,” Vilsack said, but added: “We remain skeptical about the Russians and whether or not they are coming to this to get to the ultimate yes.”

US announces three-year agriculture partnership with Ukraine to address food crisis

Russia hit Kyiv with cruise missiles fired from the Caspian Sea on Sunday, striking a rail car repair facility in the Ukrainian capital, in the first such attack for weeks, Ukraine's army and railway chief said.

Dark smoke funnelled into the sky above Kyiv's eastern outskirts. At least one person was hospitalised though no deaths were immediately reported, Mayor Vitaly Klitschko said.

Ukrainian air defences shot down one incoming missile at around 6 a.m. local time (0300 GMT), the military said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-defence-minister-optimistic-that-war-with-russia-could-end-this-year-485176">Ukraine's defence minister 'optimistic' that war with Russia could end this year</a>

One Russian missile that was probably headed for Kyiv flew "critically low" over a major nuclear power plant in the southern Mykolaiv region, state-run nuclear power operator Energoatom said on Telegram.

Russia's Defence Ministry said its missiles had destroyed T-72 tanks and armoured vehicles supplied to Ukraine by eastern European countries that were housed in a rail car repair facility in Kyiv.

Oleksandr Kamyshin, head of the Ukrainian railway, confirmed that four missiles had smashed into the Darnytsia rail car repair facility in eastern Kyiv, but denied there had been any military hardware at the site.

"Their (Russia's) target is the economy and the civilian population," he said.

The sprawling railway system has served as a vital lifeline as Russia's Feb. 24 invasion has smashed the Ukrainian economy and severed export routes via the Black Sea.

The missiles were the first to hit the capital since late April when a Radio Liberty producer was killed in a Russian missile strike that hit the building she lived in.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine conflict: Explosions rock Ukraine's capital Kyiv

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-conflict-explosions-rock-ukraines-capital-kyiv-485310/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"According to preliminary data, the (Russians) launched missiles from Tu-95 aircraft from the Caspian Sea," the Ukrainian air force said in a statement.

Presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak called on the West to impose more sanctions on Russia to punish it for the strikes and to supply more weapons to Ukraine.

"The Kremlin resorts to new insidious attacks. Today’s missile strikes at Kyiv have only one goal - kill as many as possible," he wrote in a tweet.

The mayor of the historic town of Brovary, around 20 km (12 miles) from Kyiv's centre, urged people to remain inside their homes as there had been reports of a sooty smell coming from the smoke.

Despite continuing Russian offensives in Ukraine and the widespread destruction, life in Kyiv has been relatively attack-free in recent weeks, after Moscow turned the focus of its invasion to the east and south.

Air raid sirens regularly disrupt life in Kyiv, but there have been no major strikes on the city in several weeks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-vows-to-strike-harder-if-longer-range-missiles-supplied-to-ukraine-485294">Putin vows to strike harder if longer-range missiles supplied to Ukraine</a>

The Darnytskyi district on the left bank of the Dnipro River stretches from the fringes of Kyiv to the river's shores while the Dniprovskyi area in the city's north lies along the river.

Oleksandr Honcharenko, mayor of Kramatorsk in the Donetsk region in the east, reported overnight strikes on the city, resulting in widespread damage but no casualties.

On Saturday, Ukrainian officials said the country's troops had recaptured a swathe of the embattled city of Sievierodonetsk in a counteroffensive against Russia.

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Russia hit Kyiv with cruise missiles fired from the Caspian Sea on Sunday, striking a rail car repair facility in the Ukrainian capital, in the first such attack for weeks, Ukraine's army and railway chief said.

Russia hit Kyiv with cruise missiles fired from the Caspian Sea on Sunday, striking a rail car repair facility in the Ukrainian capital, in the first such attack for weeks, Ukraine's army and railway chief said. Dark smoke funnelled into the sky above Kyiv's eastern outskirts. At least one person was hospitalised though no deaths were immediately reported, Mayor Vitaly Klitschko said. Ukrainian air defences shot down one incoming missile at around 6 a.m. local time (0300 GMT), the military said. Also read | Ukraine's defence minister 'optimistic' that war with Russia could end this year One Russian missile that was probably headed for Kyiv flew "critically low" over a major nuclear power plant in the southern Mykolaiv region, state-run nuclear power operator Energoatom said on Telegram. Russia's Defence Ministry said its missiles had destroyed T-72 tanks and armoured vehicles supplied to Ukraine by eastern European countries that were housed in a rail car repair facility in Kyiv. Oleksandr Kamyshin, head of the Ukrainian railway, confirmed that four missiles had smashed into the Darnytsia rail car repair facility in eastern Kyiv, but denied there had been any military hardware at the site. "Their (Russia's) target is the economy and the civilian population," he said. The sprawling railway system has served as a vital lifeline as Russia's Feb. 24 invasion has smashed the Ukrainian economy and severed export routes via the Black Sea. The missiles were the first to hit the capital since late April when a Radio Liberty producer was killed in a Russian missile strike that hit the building she lived in. Watch | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Explosions rock Ukraine's capital Kyiv "According to preliminary data, the (Russians) launched missiles from Tu-95 aircraft from the Caspian Sea," the Ukrainian air force said in a statement. Presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak called on the West to impose more sanctions on Russia to punish it for the strikes and to supply more weapons to Ukraine. "The Kremlin resorts to new insidious attacks. Today’s missile strikes at Kyiv have only one goal - kill as many as possible," he wrote in a tweet. The mayor of the historic town of Brovary, around 20 km (12 miles) from Kyiv's centre, urged people to remain inside their homes as there had been reports of a sooty smell coming from the smoke. Despite continuing Russian offensives in Ukraine and the widespread destruction, life in Kyiv has been relatively attack-free in recent weeks, after Moscow turned the focus of its invasion to the east and south. Air raid sirens regularly disrupt life in Kyiv, but there have been no major strikes on the city in several weeks. Also read | Putin vows to strike harder if longer-range missiles supplied to Ukraine The Darnytskyi district on the left bank of the Dnipro River stretches from the fringes of Kyiv to the river's shores while the Dniprovskyi area in the city's north lies along the river. Oleksandr Honcharenko, mayor of Kramatorsk in the Donetsk region in the east, reported overnight strikes on the city, resulting in widespread damage but no casualties. On Saturday, Ukrainian officials said the country's troops had recaptured a swathe of the embattled city of Sievierodonetsk in a counteroffensive against Russia. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kyiv rocked by blasts from Russian cruise missiles: Ukraine

The Russia-Ukraine conflict is currently in its fourth month. Residents in Ukraine are in great distress. An Ukrainian family living in dire conditions shares their story. Take a look.

Ukrainian family cook out in the open due to lack of resources

Ukraine can win the war against Russia but it will be a long fight and the conflict must not be allowed to fade out of the news, Hollywood actor Liev Schreiber said on Monday in Davos.

"It's overwhelming how resilient the Ukrainian people are," Schreiber, whose grandfather was of Ukrainian and Polish descent, told Reuters TV on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum.

The actor and director spoke after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy addressed global business leaders in the Swiss resort, pressing countries to ratchet up sanctions against Russia as a warning to others considering using brute force.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/fans-laud-harry-styles-as-he-waves-ukraine-flag-in-support-at-new-york-concert-481260">Fans laud Harry Styles as he waves Ukraine flag in support at New York concert&nbsp;</a>

The president's speech kicked off in earnest the four-day meeting that gathers some 2,000 business and economic leaders as well as experts, with Ukraine topping the agenda.

Schreiber, who made the 2005 movie 'Everything is Illuminated'&nbsp;in Ukraine, is best known as protagonist of the series Ray Donovan. He said it was just "a matter of time" that Ukrainians were going to win but the conflict must be kept in the news.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/billie-eilish-shawn-mendes-coldplay-sign-global-citizen-letter-calling-for-action-against-poverty-481675">Billie Eilish, Shawn Mendes, Coldplay sign Global Citizen letter calling for action against poverty</a>

"This could go on for some time and there's a danger of it fading from the news cycle ... and I think we have to remember that these people are in the fight of their lives right now for values and principles that we share, I think, as Europeans and Americans," he told Reuters TV.

"In terms of what's needed, support, financial support, strategy, reconstruction - all of these things are perfectly suited, I think to the World Economic Forum."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

&nbsp;

Ukraine can win the war against Russia but it will be a long fight and the conflict must not be allowed to fade out of the news, Hollywood actor Liev Schreiber said on Monday in Davos.

Ukraine can win the war against Russia but it will be a long fight and the conflict must not be allowed to fade out of the news, Hollywood actor Liev Schreiber said on Monday in Davos. "It's overwhelming how resilient the Ukrainian people are," Schreiber, whose grandfather was of Ukrainian and Polish descent, told Reuters TV on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum. The actor and director spoke after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy addressed global business leaders in the Swiss resort, pressing countries to ratchet up sanctions against Russia as a warning to others considering using brute force. Also Read: Fans laud Harry Styles as he waves Ukraine flag in support at New York concert The president's speech kicked off in earnest the four-day meeting that gathers some 2,000 business and economic leaders as well as experts, with Ukraine topping the agenda. Schreiber, who made the 2005 movie 'Everything is Illuminated' in Ukraine, is best known as protagonist of the series Ray Donovan. He said it was just "a matter of time" that Ukrainians were going to win but the conflict must be kept in the news. Also Read: Billie Eilish, Shawn Mendes, Coldplay sign Global Citizen letter calling for action against poverty "This could go on for some time and there's a danger of it fading from the news cycle ... and I think we have to remember that these people are in the fight of their lives right now for values and principles that we share, I think, as Europeans and Americans," he told Reuters TV. "In terms of what's needed, support, financial support, strategy, reconstruction - all of these things are perfectly suited, I think to the World Economic Forum."

Ukraine can win the war, says American actor Liev Schreiber 

Exiled Russian director Kirill Serebrennikov spoke out against the war in Ukraine following the global premiere of his film 'Tchaikovsky's wife,' at the Cannes Film Festival on Wednesday. 
 
"No to the war," he said in Russian, as he received a standing ovation for his 19th-century drama, the only film entry by a Russian director. 
 
Festival organizers banned official Russian delegations from the event and invited Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to address the opening ceremony live from Kyiv. He urged the industry not to be silent about the conflict. 
One of 21 films vying for the coveted Palme d`Or prize, Serebrennikov`s movie highlights the destructive marriage of Russian composer Piotr Tchaikovsky to a young woman.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-cannes-2022-tom-cruise-arrives-in-style-for-top-gun-maverick-premiere-480231" hreflang="en">Cannes 2022: Tom Cruise arrives in style for 'Top Gun: Maverick' premiere</a> 
 
It traces the transformation of Antonina, played by Alena Mikhailova, from a pious and determined suitor to a rejected spouse in an ill-fated marriage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-cannes-2022-tom-cruise-arrives-in-style-for-top-gun-maverick-premiere-480231" hreflang="en">Cannes 2022: Tom Cruise arrives in style for 'Top Gun: Maverick' premiere</a> 
 
Tchaikovsky, who prefers the company of men, is portrayed as a troubled and charismatic genius, repelled by his young wife and his decision to marry her.

Exiled Russian director Kirill Serebrennikov spoke out against the war in Ukraine following the global premiere of his film 'Tchaikovsky's wife,' at the Cannes Film Festival on Wednesday.

Exiled Russian director Kirill Serebrennikov spoke out against the war in Ukraine following the global premiere of his film 'Tchaikovsky's wife,' at the Cannes Film Festival on Wednesday. "No to the war," he said in Russian, as he received a standing ovation for his 19th-century drama, the only film entry by a Russian director. Festival organizers banned official Russian delegations from the event and invited Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to address the opening ceremony live from Kyiv. He urged the industry not to be silent about the conflict. One of 21 films vying for the coveted Palme d`Or prize, Serebrennikov`s movie highlights the destructive marriage of Russian composer Piotr Tchaikovsky to a young woman. Cannes 2022: Tom Cruise arrives in style for 'Top Gun: Maverick' premiere It traces the transformation of Antonina, played by Alena Mikhailova, from a pious and determined suitor to a rejected spouse in an ill-fated marriage. Cannes 2022: Tom Cruise arrives in style for 'Top Gun: Maverick' premiere Tchaikovsky, who prefers the company of men, is portrayed as a troubled and charismatic genius, repelled by his young wife and his decision to marry her.

Russian director condemns war at Cannes film premiere

Russian journalists associated with publications that do not adhere to Cannes Film Festival's position on Russia's military operation in Ukraine have been declined press accreditation requests by Cannes. 
 
According to The Hollywood Reporter, along with public condemnation of Russia`s military operation, Cannes has also officially un-invited all official Russian delegates or anyone linked to the Russian government from taking part in the 2022 film festival. 
 
However, this is only the case for those who have not condemned Russia`s military operation in Ukraine. In fact, Russian director Kirill Serebrennikov will be at the festival this year and present his latest feature, the historical drama 'Tchaikovsky's Wife', in competition. 
 
The outlet reported that the filmmaker is considered a dissident and earlier this year, before leaving the country, he had been targeted by Moscow and held under house arrest. 
 
"We would like to salute the courage of all those in Russia who have taken risks to protest against the assault and invasion of Ukraine," read the festival's statement on March 1, as per The Hollywood Reporter. 
 
The outlet also noted that open opposition to Russian President Vladimir Putin's regime has become both difficult and dangerous for Russian journalists because of the harsh new censorship laws.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Russian journalists associated with publications that do not adhere to Cannes Film Festival's position on Russia's military operation in Ukraine have been declined press accreditation requests by Cannes.

Russian journalists associated with publications that do not adhere to Cannes Film Festival's position on Russia's military operation in Ukraine have been declined press accreditation requests by Cannes. According to The Hollywood Reporter, along with public condemnation of Russia`s military operation, Cannes has also officially un-invited all official Russian delegates or anyone linked to the Russian government from taking part in the 2022 film festival. However, this is only the case for those who have not condemned Russia`s military operation in Ukraine. In fact, Russian director Kirill Serebrennikov will be at the festival this year and present his latest feature, the historical drama 'Tchaikovsky's Wife', in competition. The outlet reported that the filmmaker is considered a dissident and earlier this year, before leaving the country, he had been targeted by Moscow and held under house arrest. "We would like to salute the courage of all those in Russia who have taken risks to protest against the assault and invasion of Ukraine," read the festival's statement on March 1, as per The Hollywood Reporter. The outlet also noted that open opposition to Russian President Vladimir Putin's regime has become both difficult and dangerous for Russian journalists because of the harsh new censorship laws.

Cannes Film Festival declines accreditation to Russian journalists of outlets not opposing Ukraine conflict

Fedir Shandor has become a sort of an internet celebrity ever since his photo of giving lessons online while being deployed on the battlefield went viral.

Like many civilians, Shandor joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine at the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion that began on February 24.

Before that, he used to run a tourism company and teach at a university in western Uzhhorod city of Ukraine.

But all that changed when Russia’s Vladimir Putin started attacking its neighbouring country in a bid to overthrow the Volodymyr Zelensky regime.

However, as a professor, he hasn’t stopped giving lectures even in the trenches. He made an arrangement with his commanding officers and comrades to have a suitable duty roster to be able to hold lectures with his students.

The photo that had become was taken by fellow soldier Viktor Shchaedi. It purportedly shows the professor in army fatigues instructing students via video chat from inside a trench protected by sandbags, according to the New York Post.

The man can be seen with his helmet on and an AK-103 rifle at his side&nbsp;as he holds his phone in a bandaged hand.

“We are fighting for an educated nation.&nbsp;If I did not give lectures, it would be a sin,” Shandor said in a statement issued by Uzhhorod National University, where he teaches classes in tourism and hospitality.

“If there are sounds of shelling somewhere in the background, they do not affect the lecture,” Shandor said in the university statement.

It has been 70 days since he enlisted into the army and hasn’t missed a single class since then.

During that time, he said, he’s held classes at 8 am every Monday and Tuesday.

“I did not miss a single one,” he said.

“I always prefer morning classes: I read, and then you have time for another job,” he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-top-diplomat-hints-at-more-sanctions-even-as-agency-proposes-amendments-to-oil-embargo-against-russia-476959" hreflang="en">EU top diplomat hints at more sanctions, even as agency proposes amendments to oil embargo against Russia</a>

The university did not provide his exact deployment but said that Shandor is fighting in eastern Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-assures-it-wont-use-nuclear-weapons-in-ongoing-war-against-ukraine-476897" hreflang="en">Russia assures it won’t use nuclear weapons in ongoing war against Ukraine</a>

The eastern industrial region, known as the Donbas, has been host to the bulk of the fighting since Russia’s retreat from the outskirts of Kyiv in March.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Fedir Shandor has become a sort of an internet celebrity ever since his photo of giving lessons online while being deployed on the battlefield went viral. Like many civilians, Shandor joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine at the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion that began on February 24.

Fedir Shandor has become a sort of an internet celebrity ever since his photo of giving lessons online while being deployed on the battlefield went viral. Like many civilians, Shandor joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine at the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion that began on February 24. Before that, he used to run a tourism company and teach at a university in western Uzhhorod city of Ukraine. But all that changed when Russia’s Vladimir Putin started attacking its neighbouring country in a bid to overthrow the Volodymyr Zelensky regime. However, as a professor, he hasn’t stopped giving lectures even in the trenches. He made an arrangement with his commanding officers and comrades to have a suitable duty roster to be able to hold lectures with his students. The photo that had become was taken by fellow soldier Viktor Shchaedi. It purportedly shows the professor in army fatigues instructing students via video chat from inside a trench protected by sandbags, according to the New York Post. The man can be seen with his helmet on and an AK-103 rifle at his side as he holds his phone in a bandaged hand. “We are fighting for an educated nation. If I did not give lectures, it would be a sin,” Shandor said in a statement issued by Uzhhorod National University, where he teaches classes in tourism and hospitality. “If there are sounds of shelling somewhere in the background, they do not affect the lecture,” Shandor said in the university statement. It has been 70 days since he enlisted into the army and hasn’t missed a single class since then. During that time, he said, he’s held classes at 8 am every Monday and Tuesday. “I did not miss a single one,” he said. “I always prefer morning classes: I read, and then you have time for another job,” he added. Also read | EU top diplomat hints at more sanctions, even as agency proposes amendments to oil embargo against Russia The university did not provide his exact deployment but said that Shandor is fighting in eastern Ukraine. Also read | Russia assures it won’t use nuclear weapons in ongoing war against Ukraine The eastern industrial region, known as the Donbas, has been host to the bulk of the fighting since Russia’s retreat from the outskirts of Kyiv in March. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE

Meet this Ukrainian professor who gives lessons from front lines while battling Russians

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is in its third month, tensions continues to escalate and there's no sign of truce. Amid the crisis, there are growing concerns that the war could escalate into a wider conflict. This comes as Russia is being accused of trying to create unrest in the region of Trans-Dniester.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict Update: Moscow accused of creating unrest in parts of Moldova

Russia defence ministry has warned Britain that if it continued to provoke Ukraine to strike targets in Russia then there would be an immediate "proportional response".

Russia warns UK of provoking Ukraine

In a bittersweet moment, children in Kyiv, including evacuees from other parts of the country are seen decorating traditional Ukrainian Easter eggs with a stroke of patriotism.

How Ukrainian Children are marking Easter?

As Russian bombardments devastated their hometown of Mariupol, Yevgen and Tetiana decided they had only one way to&nbsp;escape&nbsp;with their four&nbsp;children:&nbsp;on&nbsp;foot.

Talking Friday to AFP in the Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia as they waited for a train westwards, the&nbsp;family&nbsp;recounted through tears and laughter their miraculous 125-kilometre (80-mile) trek to safety.

For weeks as the bombing laid waste to Mariupol, the parents tried to prepare their&nbsp;children&nbsp;Yulia, 6, Oleksandr, 8, Anna, 10, and Ivan, 12, for the perilous journey they faced.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tasks-is-to-establish-full-control-over-donbas-and-southern-ukraine-russia-473086">Task is to establish full control over Donbas and southern Ukraine: Russia</a>

"We explained to them for two months, while we were in the cellar, where we would go... We prepared them for this long journey," said Tetiana Komisarova, 40.&nbsp;

"They&nbsp;saw&nbsp;it as an&nbsp;adventure."

Last Sunday, together with her husband Yevgen Tishchenko, a 37-year-old technician, they finally thought the time had come to make their move.&nbsp;

Nervously, they led the&nbsp;children&nbsp;out of their building. It was the first time they had all left together since the Russian invasion began&nbsp;on&nbsp;February 24.&nbsp;

Around them they found a terrifying scene of utter destruction.&nbsp;

"When the kids&nbsp;saw, they walked in silence," Yevgen said.

"I don't know what was going&nbsp;on&nbsp;in their heads. Maybe they too couldn't believe that our city no longer existed."

Life underground&nbsp;

The adults already had a sense of what awaited them. They had snuck out of the house to take food and water from bombed out shops and been confronted by the corpses littering the streets.&nbsp;

"It seemed less frightening to die in a bombing raid than of hunger," said Tetiana.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Is the West trying to hide Russian oil imports?

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A shell had hit the roof of their apartment block and for the&nbsp;children, life had been lived entirely underground.&nbsp;

"We brought them books in the basement. The light was so dim that I could hardly see, but they managed to read," Tetiana said.&nbsp;

Mischievous 10-year-old Anna described moments of lightness playing with friends from a neighbouring flat.

"Sleeping&nbsp;on&nbsp;the concrete was not great," recalled the ponytailed girl. &nbsp;&nbsp;

She insisted bravely that when the bombs fell "we weren't so scared".

"The building was shaking a lot and there was a lot of dust," she said. "It was not pleasant to breathe."

Leaving Mariupol&nbsp;

Finally leaving the basement and the city was "hard", said Anna.&nbsp;

"We had to carry our bags and they were heavy," she told AFP.&nbsp;

That was&nbsp;on&nbsp;the first day, at least, before her dad discovered what the&nbsp;family&nbsp;christened "the golden cart."&nbsp;

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-says-russian-president-vladimir-putin-will-meet-un-chief-guterres-473057">&nbsp;Kremlin says Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet UN chief Guterres</a>

In reality, it was a rusted and creaking three-wheeled trolley -- but it made the walk much easier.&nbsp;

"My wife pushed our youngest girl&nbsp;on&nbsp;her tricycle. And I pushed the cart, often with one of the&nbsp;children&nbsp;perched&nbsp;on&nbsp;the bags," Yevgen said. "The other two walked beside me."

In five days and four nights of travel, the&nbsp;family&nbsp;passed through numerous Russian checkpoints, telling the soldiers that they were heading to their relatives.

"They didn't treat us as enemies, they tried to help," Yevgen said.&nbsp;

"But every time they asked us: 'Where are you from? From Mariupol? But why are you going in this direction, why aren't you going to Russia?'"

At night, the&nbsp;family&nbsp;slept in the homes of local people who opened their doors along the route and were well fed.

During the day, they moved&nbsp;on, against all odds.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-to-reopen-kyiv-embassy-in-show-of-support-for-ukraine-boris-johnson-473006">Britain to reopen Kyiv embassy in show of support for Ukraine: Boris Johnson</a>

Eventually they got lucky and came across Dmytro Zhirnikov, who was driving through Polohy, a Russian-occupied town located about 100 kilometres from Zaporizhzhia.

"I&nbsp;saw&nbsp;this&nbsp;family&nbsp;pushing a cart&nbsp;on&nbsp;the side of the road," said Zhirnikov, who regularly travels Zaporizhzhia to sell the vegetables his&nbsp;family&nbsp;produces.&nbsp;

"I stopped and told them to put their things in my trailer."

After 125 kilometres&nbsp;on&nbsp;foot, Tetiana, Yevgen, and their little ones finished their journey in his battered van.&nbsp;

Zhirnikov remembered the elation they felt when they emerged from Russian-controlled territory and&nbsp;saw&nbsp;Ukrainian soldiers.&nbsp;

"When we passed the first checkpoint, everyone started crying," he said.&nbsp;

"We had just one goal: that our&nbsp;children&nbsp;could live in&nbsp;Ukraine. They are Ukrainians, we can't imagine that they could live in another country," Tetiana insisted.

On&nbsp;Friday, the&nbsp;family&nbsp;crammed themselves and their meagre possessions into a crowded train heading for the western city of Lviv.

They then plan to move to Ivano-Frankivsk, another large city in western&nbsp;Ukraine, to try to rebuild a normal life.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-crisis-tens-of-thousands-of-ukrainians-still-fleeing-war-says-un-472997">Russia-Ukraine crisis: Tens of thousands of Ukrainians still fleeing war, says UN</a>

"I want to find a job. My wife will take care of the&nbsp;children&nbsp;and&nbsp;try to find them a school," Yevgen said.&nbsp;

"We can never forget what we have been through. We must not. But we must keep our spirits up and raise our little ones."

Their daughter Anna described her own simple wishes after escaping the hell of Mariupol.&nbsp;

"I want to live in a city that is not like that," she said. "And in&nbsp;Ukraine."&nbsp;

As Russian bombardments devastated their hometown of Mariupol, Yevgen and Tetiana decided they had only one way to escape with their four children: on foot. Talking Friday to AFP in the Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia as they waited for a train westwards, the family recounted through tears and laughter their miraculous 125-kilometre (80-mile) trek to safety.

As Russian bombardments devastated their hometown of Mariupol, Yevgen and Tetiana decided they had only one way to escape with their four children: on foot. Talking Friday to AFP in the Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia as they waited for a train westwards, the family recounted through tears and laughter their miraculous 125-kilometre (80-mile) trek to safety. For weeks as the bombing laid waste to Mariupol, the parents tried to prepare their children Yulia, 6, Oleksandr, 8, Anna, 10, and Ivan, 12, for the perilous journey they faced. Also read | Task is to establish full control over Donbas and southern Ukraine: Russia "We explained to them for two months, while we were in the cellar, where we would go... We prepared them for this long journey," said Tetiana Komisarova, 40. "They saw it as an adventure." Last Sunday, together with her husband Yevgen Tishchenko, a 37-year-old technician, they finally thought the time had come to make their move. Nervously, they led the children out of their building. It was the first time they had all left together since the Russian invasion began on February 24. Around them they found a terrifying scene of utter destruction. "When the kids saw, they walked in silence," Yevgen said. "I don't know what was going on in their heads. Maybe they too couldn't believe that our city no longer existed." Life underground The adults already had a sense of what awaited them. They had snuck out of the house to take food and water from bombed out shops and been confronted by the corpses littering the streets. "It seemed less frightening to die in a bombing raid than of hunger," said Tetiana. Watch | Gravitas: Is the West trying to hide Russian oil imports? A shell had hit the roof of their apartment block and for the children, life had been lived entirely underground. "We brought them books in the basement. The light was so dim that I could hardly see, but they managed to read," Tetiana said. Mischievous 10-year-old Anna described moments of lightness playing with friends from a neighbouring flat. "Sleeping on the concrete was not great," recalled the ponytailed girl. She insisted bravely that when the bombs fell "we weren't so scared". "The building was shaking a lot and there was a lot of dust," she said. "It was not pleasant to breathe." Leaving Mariupol Finally leaving the basement and the city was "hard", said Anna. "We had to carry our bags and they were heavy," she told AFP. That was on the first day, at least, before her dad discovered what the family christened "the golden cart." Also read | Kremlin says Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet UN chief Guterres In reality, it was a rusted and creaking three-wheeled trolley -- but it made the walk much easier. "My wife pushed our youngest girl on her tricycle. And I pushed the cart, often with one of the children perched on the bags," Yevgen said. "The other two walked beside me." In five days and four nights of travel, the family passed through numerous Russian checkpoints, telling the soldiers that they were heading to their relatives. "They didn't treat us as enemies, they tried to help," Yevgen said. "But every time they asked us: 'Where are you from? From Mariupol? But why are you going in this direction, why aren't you going to Russia?'" At night, the family slept in the homes of local people who opened their doors along the route and were well fed. During the day, they moved on, against all odds. Also read | Britain to reopen Kyiv embassy in show of support for Ukraine: Boris Johnson Eventually they got lucky and came across Dmytro Zhirnikov, who was driving through Polohy, a Russian-occupied town located about 100 kilometres from Zaporizhzhia. "I saw this family pushing a cart on the side of the road," said Zhirnikov, who regularly travels Zaporizhzhia to sell the vegetables his family produces. "I stopped and told them to put their things in my trailer." After 125 kilometres on foot, Tetiana, Yevgen, and their little ones finished their journey in his battered van. Zhirnikov remembered the elation they felt when they emerged from Russian-controlled territory and saw Ukrainian soldiers. "When we passed the first checkpoint, everyone started crying," he said. "We had just one goal: that our children could live in Ukraine. They are Ukrainians, we can't imagine that they could live in another country," Tetiana insisted. On Friday, the family crammed themselves and their meagre possessions into a crowded train heading for the western city of Lviv. They then plan to move to Ivano-Frankivsk, another large city in western Ukraine, to try to rebuild a normal life. Also read | Russia-Ukraine crisis: Tens of thousands of Ukrainians still fleeing war, says UN "I want to find a job. My wife will take care of the children and try to find them a school," Yevgen said. "We can never forget what we have been through. We must not. But we must keep our spirits up and raise our little ones." Their daughter Anna described her own simple wishes after escaping the hell of Mariupol. "I want to live in a city that is not like that," she said. "And in Ukraine."

Russia-Ukraine crisis: How a Ukrainian family escaped from Mariupol on foot

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. Two British fighters were allegedly captured by Russian soldiers in Ukraine last week when they were defending the southern city of Mariupol in the war-torn nation. In the latest video, the Britons urged British Prime Minister Boris Johnson to negotiate their release. A few days ago, a video had emerged that showed 28-year-old fighter Aiden Aslin handcuffed and bruised. He had an evident cut on his forehead. Aslin was also paraded on Russian TV. As per UK media, Aslin is originally from Nottinghamshire but he moved to Ukraine in 2018. He reportedly holds dual citizenship. ALSO READ | Russian troops have begun battle for Donbas, says Ukraine President Zelensky Another Briton who is in captivity is Shaun Pinner. He apparently moved to Ukraine in 2018. In a statement released through Britain's foreign ministry, Pinner's relatives said the pair were "being held by the Russian army". Pinner's family noted he was a "proud member" of Ukraine's marines, after moving to the country four years ago and marrying a Ukrainian. In the latest British media report, the sister of Pinner suggested that his family has been considering a prisoner swap. As quoted by Daily Mail, the 43-year-old Cassandra Pinner said, "We have been made aware that Shaun is in another video asking for a prisoner exchange. A prisoner exchange is a move that is being considered, not necessarily with Viktor Medvedchuk, but it's something being discussed." ALSO READ | Ukraine war: More than 4.9 million Ukrainians flee war, says UN Both Pinner and Aslin had been fighting for the Ukrainian army in the southeastern Ukrainian city of Mariupol, which is now almost entirely under Russian control. Reports suggest that Mariupol could fall anytime after Russia escalated bombings and shelling with people reportedly hiding in the city. Britons urge Johnson to negotiate their release In the latest video published on Monday (April 18), which was shown on Russian state broadcaster VGTRK, Pinner and Aslin can be seen asking to be exchanged for Viktor Medvedchuk. Medvedchuk is said to be a very close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin. He was recently captured and is being held by the Ukrainian authorities. The Britons called on the British PM to help free them and the footage of the same went viral on social media forums. However, it was not clear whether the men had been forced to speak in the videos and when and where the video was actually made. So far, there is no response from the UK officials yet. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. 📽️Ukrainian marine of British origin Aiden Aslin, was dressed to Azov's t-shirt for Russian propaganda. #Mariupol #Ukraine #UkraineRussiaWar pic.twitter.com/2MB90IfnKv — MilitaryLand.net (@Militarylandnet) April 18, 2022 × 🇬🇧🇺🇦Video llamamiento de los ciudadanos británicos que se rindieron en Mariupol al primer ministro Boris Johnson. Los mercenarios Sean Pinner y Aiden Aslin piden ser canjeados por el político ucraniano Medvedchuk.@SputnikLive pic.twitter.com/FOnRmCj4ME — Hernan (@Hernan09341642) April 18, 2022 × Viktor Medvedchuk to be released? Ukraine on April 12 claimed that the authorities have captured a Medvedchuk. A few days ago, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had proposed to exchange the 67-year-old Medvedchuk for Ukrainians currently being held in Russia. On being asked about the potential exchange last week, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stressed that Medvedchuk was "not a Russian citizen" and said he did not know if he wanted Moscow to interfere in his case. WATCH | Ukraine-Russia war: What are anti-radiation medicines? Side effects & availability ×

Watch: Captured Britons appear on Russian TV, ask Boris Johnson for swap with Putin ally

The&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;said Tuesday it was struggling to deliver two&nbsp;generators&nbsp;to&nbsp;hospitals&nbsp;in the besieged Ukrainian port city of Mariupol, fearing the worst for its hard-hit health system.

The World Health Organization said it was trying to pre-position supplies closer to the frontlines to speed up delivery if a window opens.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;is hoping to deliver 15&nbsp;generators&nbsp;to&nbsp;hospitals&nbsp;across&nbsp;Ukraine, from a base in the western city of Lviv.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-doing-everything-to-drag-out-ukraine-conflict-russias-defence-minister-472136">West 'doing everything to drag out' Ukraine conflict: Russia's defence minister</a>

Two were due to head to the eastern city of Kharkiv Tuesday, while another three are destined for the Lugansk and Donetsk regions in the east, which have seen heavy fighting.

Two more were for Mariupol, also in the east,&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;Europe spokesman Bhanu Bhatnagar told reporters in Geneva via videolink from Lviv.

"We will only move the&nbsp;generators&nbsp;to their final destinations when we can ensure the safety of our personnel and the precious cargo they are transporting," he said.&nbsp;

"The&nbsp;generators&nbsp;will help meet the minimum energy needs of medical and surgical units of referral&nbsp;hospitals, where power supply is limited or non-existent".

Mariupol has become a symbol of&nbsp;Ukraine's fierce resistance since Russia invaded on February 24.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine says 'Russia has begun it's eastern offensive,' explosions reported across Donbas

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Russia on Tuesday called on Ukrainian forces to lay down arms "immediately" in the city.&nbsp;

"We don't have access to Mariupol at this time but we will position everything so that the minute we can get access, we are able to get the supplies in," Bhatnagar said.

"We fear the worst for the health system in Mariupol."

The UN's World Food Programme pleaded for unimpeded humanitarian access to people trapped in encircled areas of&nbsp;Ukraine.&nbsp;

In Mariupol alone, more than 100,000 people are unable to leave and "are in dire need of food, water and other essential supplies," Jakob Kern, the WFP's emergency coordinator in&nbsp;Ukraine, told reporters in Geneva via videolink from Lviv.

"In such circumstances, any illness that can usually be treated with medicine becomes a life-threatening situation."

The WFP estimates that some six million people in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;will need food and cash assistance.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-conflict-why-victory-in-mariupol-is-important-to-russia-472126">Ukraine Conflict: Why a victory in Mariupol is important to Russia</a>

The&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;said it had so far delivered&nbsp;218 metric tonnes&nbsp;of emergency and medical supplies and equipment to&nbsp;Ukraine, of which 142 metric tonnes had reached its intended destination, mostly in the north and the east.

Since the Russian invasion, the&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;has verified 147 attacks on healthcare sites in&nbsp;Ukraine, in which at least&nbsp;73 people have died and 52 have been injured.

The WHO said Tuesday it was struggling to deliver two generators to hospitals in the besieged Ukrainian port city of Mariupol, fearing the worst for its hard-hit health system.

The WHO said Tuesday it was struggling to deliver two generators to hospitals in the besieged Ukrainian port city of Mariupol, fearing the worst for its hard-hit health system. The World Health Organization said it was trying to pre-position supplies closer to the frontlines to speed up delivery if a window opens. The WHO is hoping to deliver 15 generators to hospitals across Ukraine, from a base in the western city of Lviv. Also read | West 'doing everything to drag out' Ukraine conflict: Russia's defence minister Two were due to head to the eastern city of Kharkiv Tuesday, while another three are destined for the Lugansk and Donetsk regions in the east, which have seen heavy fighting. Two more were for Mariupol, also in the east, WHO Europe spokesman Bhanu Bhatnagar told reporters in Geneva via videolink from Lviv. "We will only move the generators to their final destinations when we can ensure the safety of our personnel and the precious cargo they are transporting," he said. "The generators will help meet the minimum energy needs of medical and surgical units of referral hospitals, where power supply is limited or non-existent". Mariupol has become a symbol of Ukraine's fierce resistance since Russia invaded on February 24. Watch | Ukraine says 'Russia has begun it's eastern offensive,' explosions reported across Donbas Russia on Tuesday called on Ukrainian forces to lay down arms "immediately" in the city. "We don't have access to Mariupol at this time but we will position everything so that the minute we can get access, we are able to get the supplies in," Bhatnagar said. "We fear the worst for the health system in Mariupol." The UN's World Food Programme pleaded for unimpeded humanitarian access to people trapped in encircled areas of Ukraine. In Mariupol alone, more than 100,000 people are unable to leave and "are in dire need of food, water and other essential supplies," Jakob Kern, the WFP's emergency coordinator in Ukraine, told reporters in Geneva via videolink from Lviv. "In such circumstances, any illness that can usually be treated with medicine becomes a life-threatening situation." The WFP estimates that some six million people in Ukraine will need food and cash assistance. Also read | Ukraine Conflict: Why a victory in Mariupol is important to Russia The WHO said it had so far delivered 218 metric tonnes of emergency and medical supplies and equipment to Ukraine, of which 142 metric tonnes had reached its intended destination, mostly in the north and the east. Since the Russian invasion, the WHO has verified 147 attacks on healthcare sites in Ukraine, in which at least 73 people have died and 52 have been injured.

WHO struggles to send generators to Ukraine hospitals