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<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p>As Russia has intensified its attacks on Kyiv, the country's defence ministry on Sunday (April 17) claimed that they have struck a military plant outside the capital city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement on Telegram, the ministry noted: "During the night, high-precision, air-launched missiles destroyed an ammunitions factory near the settlement of Brovary, Kyiv region."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Igor Sapozhko, who is the mayor of Brovary, said that "some infrastructure objects were hit" in the early hours of Sunday morning (April 17).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a video posted on social media, Sapozhko said: "This morning a number of infrastructure facilities in our community have been hit... There could be outrages with power and water supplies and sewerage."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-sets-sunday-deadline-for-ukraine-troops-to-surrender-in-mariupol-471528">Russia sets Sunday deadline for Ukraine troops to surrender in Mariupol</a></strong></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</em></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Brovary.<br />
<br />
In the morning, Russian occupation forces launched missile strikes on the city. The mayor Igor Sapozhko reported about it<br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EU?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EU</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/European?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#European</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/US?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#US</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CINA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CINA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDIA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDIA</a> <a href="https://t.co/PJkSq0h6Ao">pic.twitter.com/PJkSq0h6Ao</a></p>
— Majid (@Majid52333133) <a href="https://twitter.com/Majid52333133/status/1515581948302925826?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>However, Ukrainian officials have not released any details on the extent of the destruction and potential casualties. The report of attacks on military plant comes amid Russia has been carrying out several attacks. In recent days, the number of attacks has increased in and outside Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, Russia said it was withdrawing troops from northern Ukraine — including from around the capital — to focus on gaining control of the eastern Donbas region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-harpoon-anti-ship-missiles-in-ukraines-arsenal-can-disbalance-russia-in-black-sea-region-470481">How Harpoon anti-ship missiles in Ukraine's arsenal can disbalance Russia in Black Sea region</a></strong></p>

<p>Important to note that the Russian defence ministry says it has cleared the whole of Mariupol's "urban area" of Ukrainian forces. Giving an ultimatum, they also urged Ukrainian soldiers to surrender.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They say the only remaining Ukrainian soldiers are in the Azovstal metalworks — and that their only chance to live is to "lay down their arms and surrender".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Zelensky: We will end negotiations if our troops are harmed</strong></p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. As Russia has intensified its attacks on Kyiv, the country's defence ministry on Sunday (April 17) claimed that they have struck a military plant outside the capital city. In a statement on Telegram, the ministry noted: "During the night, high-precision, air-launched missiles destroyed an ammunitions factory near the settlement of Brovary, Kyiv region." Igor Sapozhko, who is the mayor of Brovary, said that "some infrastructure objects were hit" in the early hours of Sunday morning (April 17). In a video posted on social media, Sapozhko said: "This morning a number of infrastructure facilities in our community have been hit... There could be outrages with power and water supplies and sewerage." ALSO READ | Russia sets Sunday deadline for Ukraine troops to surrender in Mariupol Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Brovary. In the morning, Russian occupation forces launched missile strikes on the city. The mayor Igor Sapozhko reported about it #Ukraine #EU #European #US #CINA #INDIA pic.twitter.com/PJkSq0h6Ao — Majid (@Majid52333133) April 17, 2022 × However, Ukrainian officials have not released any details on the extent of the destruction and potential casualties. The report of attacks on military plant comes amid Russia has been carrying out several attacks. In recent days, the number of attacks has increased in and outside Kyiv. Last month, Russia said it was withdrawing troops from northern Ukraine — including from around the capital — to focus on gaining control of the eastern Donbas region. IN PICS | How Harpoon anti-ship missiles in Ukraine's arsenal can disbalance Russia in Black Sea region Important to note that the Russian defence ministry says it has cleared the whole of Mariupol's "urban area" of Ukrainian forces. Giving an ultimatum, they also urged Ukrainian soldiers to surrender. They say the only remaining Ukrainian soldiers are in the Azovstal metalworks — and that their only chance to live is to "lay down their arms and surrender". ALSO WATCH | Zelensky: We will end negotiations if our troops are harmed ×

Ukraine war: Russian defence ministry claims they 'destroyed' military factory outside Kyiv

<p>To provide security assistance to Ukraine, the United States on Wednesday (April 13) announced an additional $800 million in military aid for the war-torn country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Important to note that the US is providing Ukraine with heavier, high-power capabilities equipment for the first time since Russia began its invasion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden announced the latest military aid for Ukraine and shared its details. Previously also, the US has had sent military assistance and humanitarian aid to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new package includes 11 Mi-17 helicopters, 18 155mm howitzers, 40,000 artillery rounds, counter-artillery radars, 200 armoured personnel carriers and 300 additional "Switchblade" drones. This is the first time howitzers have been provided to Ukraine by the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-it-hit-russian-warship-with-neptune-missiles-russia-claims-otherwise-470848">Ukraine says it hit Russian warship with Neptune missiles, Russia claims it was ammunition explosion</a></strong></p>

<p>The US President had a telephonic conversation with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky. After the call, the White House released a statement revealing all the details.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I just spoke with President Zelenskyy and shared with him that my Administration is authorizing an additional $800 million in weapons, ammunition, and other security assistance to Ukraine," Biden said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "As Russia prepares to intensify its attack in the Donbas region, the United States will continue to provide Ukraine with the capabilities to defend itself."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden says that the steady supply of weapons provided by the US and its allies have provided to Ukraine has been critical in resisting the Russian invasion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "It has helped ensure that Putin failed in his initial war aims to conquer and control Ukraine. We cannot rest now. As I assured President Zelenskyy, the American people will continue to stand with the brave Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/viktor-medvedchuk-ukraine-captures-vladimir-putin-zelensky-offers-to-swap-him-for-captured-ukrainians-470643">Viktor Medvedchuk: Ukraine captures Vladimir Putin ally; Zelensky offers to swap him for captured Ukrainians&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>John Spencer, who is a retired US Army major and expert on urban warfare at the Madison Policy Forum think tank, weighed in on the latest military assistance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He told Reuters: "In this phase, I think it is a shift in policy, say, absolutely we recognize that Ukraine needs the ability to fight Russia in the open and prevent basically their loss in Eastern Ukraine, right?"&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think this is a shift in policy and recognizing the tools that are needed -- that's different, for sure," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Tectonic shift in Geo-Politics: Russia's invasion pushes Finland, Sweden toward NATO</strong></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


To provide security assistance to Ukraine, the United States on Wednesday (April 13) announced an additional $800 million in military aid for the war-torn country.

To provide security assistance to Ukraine, the United States on Wednesday (April 13) announced an additional $800 million in military aid for the war-torn country. Important to note that the US is providing Ukraine with heavier, high-power capabilities equipment for the first time since Russia began its invasion. US President Joe Biden announced the latest military aid for Ukraine and shared its details. Previously also, the US has had sent military assistance and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. The new package includes 11 Mi-17 helicopters, 18 155mm howitzers, 40,000 artillery rounds, counter-artillery radars, 200 armoured personnel carriers and 300 additional "Switchblade" drones. This is the first time howitzers have been provided to Ukraine by the US. ALSO READ | Ukraine says it hit Russian warship with Neptune missiles, Russia claims it was ammunition explosion The US President had a telephonic conversation with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky. After the call, the White House released a statement revealing all the details. "I just spoke with President Zelenskyy and shared with him that my Administration is authorizing an additional $800 million in weapons, ammunition, and other security assistance to Ukraine," Biden said. He added, "As Russia prepares to intensify its attack in the Donbas region, the United States will continue to provide Ukraine with the capabilities to defend itself." Biden says that the steady supply of weapons provided by the US and its allies have provided to Ukraine has been critical in resisting the Russian invasion. He said, "It has helped ensure that Putin failed in his initial war aims to conquer and control Ukraine. We cannot rest now. As I assured President Zelenskyy, the American people will continue to stand with the brave Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom." ALSO READ | Viktor Medvedchuk: Ukraine captures Vladimir Putin ally; Zelensky offers to swap him for captured Ukrainians John Spencer, who is a retired US Army major and expert on urban warfare at the Madison Policy Forum think tank, weighed in on the latest military assistance. He told Reuters: "In this phase, I think it is a shift in policy, say, absolutely we recognize that Ukraine needs the ability to fight Russia in the open and prevent basically their loss in Eastern Ukraine, right?" "I think this is a shift in policy and recognizing the tools that are needed -- that's different, for sure," he added. WATCH | Tectonic shift in Geo-Politics: Russia's invasion pushes Finland, Sweden toward NATO × (With inputs from agencies)

In $800 million military assistance, US gives heavier and high-power capabilities equipment to Ukraine

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<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidmNs28fbqEoDQ" /><meta charset="utf-8" /><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p>Ukraine on Thursday (April 14) claimed that it has hit Russian Navy's Black Sea flagship with Neptune missiles and caused damage to the vessel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maxim Marchenko, who is the Odesa state regional administrator, stated in a social media post that the Russian ship was hit by two missiles. Although, he did not give further evidence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a post on Telegram, he said. "Neptune missiles guarding the Black Sea caused very serious damage."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-send-weapons-to-ukraine-look-for-rapprochement-between-nato-russia-after-war-says-frances-le-pen-470834">Don’t send weapons to Ukraine, look for rapprochement between NATO, Russia after war, says France's Le Pen</a></strong></p>

<p>On the other hand, Russia claimed otherwise. Contrary to Ukrainian claims, Russian state media said that the Russian warship in the Black Sea was "seriously damaged" by an ammunition explosion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The country's Interfax news agency quoted the Russian defence ministry as saying to state that the incident on the Moskva missile cruiser occurred after ammunition on board blew up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, it said: "As the result of a fire on the Moskva missile cruiser, ammunition detonated." The authorities also informed that the crew had been evacuated and the cause of the fire was being determined.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/viktor-medvedchuk-ukraine-captures-vladimir-putin-zelensky-offers-to-swap-him-for-captured-ukrainians-470643">Viktor Medvedchuk: Ukraine captures Vladimir Putin ally; Zelensky offers to swap him for captured Ukrainians&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ukrainian military hit Russia cruiser Moskva, which is the same warship that has been told by Snake Island defenders to go fuck itself. It was hit with Neptune anti-ship cruise missile that was developed by Kyiv based Luch Design Bureau in 2014-2020 <a href="https://t.co/cWrIOZjhbi">pic.twitter.com/cWrIOZjhbi</a></p>
— Hromadske Int. (@Hromadske) <a href="https://twitter.com/Hromadske/status/1514383351762894856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The mentioned warship, Moskva, was originally built in the Soviet era in Ukraine's Mykolaiv. Media reports had stated that it had entered service in the early 1980s.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was previously deployed in the Syria conflict with a crew of 510. In Syria, it served as naval protection for the Russian forces' Hmeimim airbase.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The missile cruiser carries 16 P-1000 Vulkan anti-ship missiles as well as an array of anti-submarine and mine-torpedo weapons, the reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Tectonic shift in Geo-Politics: Russia's invasion pushes Finland, Sweden toward NATO</strong></p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukraine on Thursday (April 14) claimed that it has hit Russian Navy's Black Sea flagship with Neptune missiles and caused damage to the vessel. Maxim Marchenko, who is the Odesa state regional administrator, stated in a social media post that the Russian ship was hit by two missiles. Although, he did not give further evidence. In a post on Telegram, he said. "Neptune missiles guarding the Black Sea caused very serious damage." ALSO READ | Don’t send weapons to Ukraine, look for rapprochement between NATO, Russia after war, says France's Le Pen On the other hand, Russia claimed otherwise. Contrary to Ukrainian claims, Russian state media said that the Russian warship in the Black Sea was "seriously damaged" by an ammunition explosion. The country's Interfax news agency quoted the Russian defence ministry as saying to state that the incident on the Moskva missile cruiser occurred after ammunition on board blew up. In a statement, it said: "As the result of a fire on the Moskva missile cruiser, ammunition detonated." The authorities also informed that the crew had been evacuated and the cause of the fire was being determined. ALSO READ | Viktor Medvedchuk: Ukraine captures Vladimir Putin ally; Zelensky offers to swap him for captured Ukrainians Ukrainian military hit Russia cruiser Moskva, which is the same warship that has been told by Snake Island defenders to go fuck itself. It was hit with Neptune anti-ship cruise missile that was developed by Kyiv based Luch Design Bureau in 2014-2020 pic.twitter.com/cWrIOZjhbi — Hromadske Int. (@Hromadske) April 13, 2022 × The mentioned warship, Moskva, was originally built in the Soviet era in Ukraine's Mykolaiv. Media reports had stated that it had entered service in the early 1980s. It was previously deployed in the Syria conflict with a crew of 510. In Syria, it served as naval protection for the Russian forces' Hmeimim airbase. The missile cruiser carries 16 P-1000 Vulkan anti-ship missiles as well as an array of anti-submarine and mine-torpedo weapons, the reports said. WATCH | Tectonic shift in Geo-Politics: Russia's invasion pushes Finland, Sweden toward NATO ×

Ukraine says it hit Russian warship with Neptune missiles, Russia claims it was ammunition explosion

<p>One of&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin's closest allies warned&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;on Thursday that if&nbsp;Sweden&nbsp;and&nbsp;Finland&nbsp;joined the U.S.-led military alliance then&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;would have to bolster its defences in the region, including by deploying&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;weapons.</p>

<p>Finland, which shares a 1,300-km (810-mile) border with&nbsp;Russia,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Sweden&nbsp;are considering&nbsp;joining the&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;alliance. Finland&nbsp;will make a decision in the next few weeks, Prime Minister Sanna Marin said on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of&nbsp;Russia's Security Council, said that should&nbsp;Sweden&nbsp;and&nbsp;Finland&nbsp;join&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;then&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;would have to strengthen its land, naval&nbsp;and&nbsp;air forces in the Baltic Sea.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-hope-the-world-comes-back-to-its-senses-world-treats-black-and-white-lives-unequally-says-who-chief-470945">'I hope the world comes back to its senses': World treats 'black and white lives' unequally, says WHO chief</a></strong></p>

<p>Medvedev also explicitly raised the&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;threat by saying that there could be no more talk of a "nuclear&nbsp;free" Baltic - where Russia has its Kaliningrad exclave sandwiched between Poland&nbsp;and&nbsp;Lithuania.</p>

<p>"There can be no more talk of any&nbsp;nuclear–free status for the Baltic - the balance must be restored," said Medvedev, who was president from 2008 to 2012.</p>

<p>"Until today,&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;has not taken such measures&nbsp;and&nbsp;was not going to," Medvedev said. "If our hand&nbsp;is forced well... take note it wasn't us who proposed this," he added.</p>

<p>Lithuania said&nbsp;Russia's threats were nothing new&nbsp;and&nbsp;that Moscow had deployed&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;weapons to Kaliningrad long before the war in Ukraine.</p>

<p>The possible accession of Finland&nbsp;and&nbsp;Sweden&nbsp;into&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;- founded in 1949 to provide collective Western security against the Soviet Union - would be one of the biggest European strategic consequences of the war in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Finland&nbsp;gained independence from&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;in 1917&nbsp;and&nbsp;fought two wars against it during World War Two during which it lost some territory to Moscow. On Thursday, Finland&nbsp;announced a military exercise in Western Finland&nbsp;with the participation of forces from Britain, the United States, Latvia&nbsp;and&nbsp;Estonia.</p>

<p>Sweden&nbsp;has not fought a war for 200 years&nbsp;and&nbsp;post-war foreign policy has focused on supporting democracy internationally, multilateral dialogue&nbsp;and&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;disarmament.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Finland prepares for a potential war with Russia</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Kaliningrad</strong></p>

<p>Kaliningrad is of particular importance in the northern European theatre. Formerly the Prussian port of Koenigsberg, capital of East Prussia, it lies less than 1400 km from London&nbsp;and&nbsp;Paris&nbsp;and&nbsp;500 km from Berlin.</p>

<p>Russia&nbsp;said in 2018 it had deployed Iskander missiles to Kaliningrad, which was captured by the Red Army in April 1945&nbsp;and&nbsp;ceded to the Soviet Union at the Potsdam conference.</p>

<p>The Iskander, known as SS-26 Stone by&nbsp;NATO, is a short-range tactical ballistic missile system that can carry both conventional&nbsp;and&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;warheads.</p>

<p>Its official range is 500 km but some Western military sources suspect its range may be much greater.</p>

<p>"No sane person wants higher prices&nbsp;and&nbsp;higher taxes, increased tensions along borders, Iskanders, hypersonics&nbsp;and&nbsp;ships with&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;weapons literally at arm's length from their own home," Medvedev said.</p>

<p>"Let's hope that the common sense of our northern neighbors will win," said Medvedev.</p>

<p>Lithuanian Defence Minister Arvydas Anusauskas said&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;had deployed&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;weapons to Kaliningrad even before the war.</p>

<p>"Nuclear&nbsp;weapons have always been kept in Kaliningrad ... the international community, the countries in the region, are perfectly aware of this," Anusauskas was quoted as saying by BNS. "They use it as a threat."</p>

<p>Russia's Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine has killed thousands of people, displaced millions&nbsp;and&nbsp;raised fears of a wider confrontation between&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;the United States - by far the world's two biggest&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;powers.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-russias-tit-for-tat-move-slaps-sanctions-on-us-canada-470856">Russia-Ukraine conflict: Moscow’s tit-for-tat move;&nbsp;slaps sanctions on US, Canada</a></strong></p>

<p>Putin says the "special military operation" in Ukraine is necessary because the United States was using Ukraine to threaten&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;Moscow had to defend against the persecution of&nbsp;Russian-speaking people by Ukraine.</p>

<p>Ukraine says it is fighting against an imperial-style land&nbsp;grab&nbsp;and&nbsp;that Putin's claims of genocide are nonsense. US&nbsp;President Joe Biden says Putin is a war criminal&nbsp;and&nbsp;a dictator.</p>

<p>Putin says the conflict in Ukraine as part of a much broader confrontation with the United States which he says is trying to enforce its hegemony even as its dominance over the international order declines.</p>


One of Russian President Vladimir Putin's closest allies warned NATO on Thursday that if Sweden and Finland joined the U.S.-led military alliance then Russia would have to bolster its defences in the region, including by deploying nuclear weapons.

One of Russian President Vladimir Putin's closest allies warned NATO on Thursday that if Sweden and Finland joined the U.S.-led military alliance then Russia would have to bolster its defences in the region, including by deploying nuclear weapons. Finland, which shares a 1,300-km (810-mile) border with Russia, and Sweden are considering joining the NATO alliance. Finland will make a decision in the next few weeks, Prime Minister Sanna Marin said on Wednesday. Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, said that should Sweden and Finland join NATO then Russia would have to strengthen its land, naval and air forces in the Baltic Sea. Also read | 'I hope the world comes back to its senses': World treats 'black and white lives' unequally, says WHO chief Medvedev also explicitly raised the nuclear threat by saying that there could be no more talk of a "nuclear free" Baltic - where Russia has its Kaliningrad exclave sandwiched between Poland and Lithuania. "There can be no more talk of any nuclear–free status for the Baltic - the balance must be restored," said Medvedev, who was president from 2008 to 2012. "Until today, Russia has not taken such measures and was not going to," Medvedev said. "If our hand is forced well... take note it wasn't us who proposed this," he added. Lithuania said Russia's threats were nothing new and that Moscow had deployed nuclear weapons to Kaliningrad long before the war in Ukraine. The possible accession of Finland and Sweden into NATO - founded in 1949 to provide collective Western security against the Soviet Union - would be one of the biggest European strategic consequences of the war in Ukraine. Finland gained independence from Russia in 1917 and fought two wars against it during World War Two during which it lost some territory to Moscow. On Thursday, Finland announced a military exercise in Western Finland with the participation of forces from Britain, the United States, Latvia and Estonia. Sweden has not fought a war for 200 years and post-war foreign policy has focused on supporting democracy internationally, multilateral dialogue and nuclear disarmament. Watch | Gravitas: Finland prepares for a potential war with Russia Kaliningrad Kaliningrad is of particular importance in the northern European theatre. Formerly the Prussian port of Koenigsberg, capital of East Prussia, it lies less than 1400 km from London and Paris and 500 km from Berlin. Russia said in 2018 it had deployed Iskander missiles to Kaliningrad, which was captured by the Red Army in April 1945 and ceded to the Soviet Union at the Potsdam conference. The Iskander, known as SS-26 Stone by NATO, is a short-range tactical ballistic missile system that can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads. Its official range is 500 km but some Western military sources suspect its range may be much greater. "No sane person wants higher prices and higher taxes, increased tensions along borders, Iskanders, hypersonics and ships with nuclear weapons literally at arm's length from their own home," Medvedev said. "Let's hope that the common sense of our northern neighbors will win," said Medvedev. Lithuanian Defence Minister Arvydas Anusauskas said Russia had deployed nuclear weapons to Kaliningrad even before the war. "Nuclear weapons have always been kept in Kaliningrad ... the international community, the countries in the region, are perfectly aware of this," Anusauskas was quoted as saying by BNS. "They use it as a threat." Russia's Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine has killed thousands of people, displaced millions and raised fears of a wider confrontation between Russia and the United States - by far the world's two biggest nuclear powers. Also read | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Moscow’s tit-for-tat move; slaps sanctions on US, Canada Putin says the "special military operation" in Ukraine is necessary because the United States was using Ukraine to threaten Russia and Moscow had to defend against the persecution of Russian-speaking people by Ukraine. Ukraine says it is fighting against an imperial-style land grab and that Putin's claims of genocide are nonsense. US President Joe Biden says Putin is a war criminal and a dictator. Putin says the conflict in Ukraine as part of a much broader confrontation with the United States which he says is trying to enforce its hegemony even as its dominance over the international order declines.

Russia warns of nuclear deployment if Sweden and Finland join NATO

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<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p>Ukraine on Tuesday (April 12) claimed that the authorities have captured a fugitive pro-Russian politician Viktor Medvedchuk, who is deemed to be the closest ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>News agencies have stated that the 67-year-old business tycoon Medvedchuk is one of the richest people in Ukraine and he has remained in controversy for his close ties to Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If reports are to be believed, Medvedchuk counts Putin among his personal friends and says the Kremlin leader is godfather to his youngest daughter Darya.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Undated and unlocated images of Medvedchuk were released by Ukraine's security service SBU that purportedly show the business tycoon in handcuffs and wearing a Ukrainian military uniform.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-president-biden-accuses-russian-forces-of-committing-genocide-470632">Ukraine war: President Biden accuses Russian forces of committing 'genocide'</a></strong></p>

<p>Ivan Bakanov, who is the security agency chief said that agents had carried out a "lightning-fast and dangerous multi-level special operation to detain" the Russia-friendly lawmaker. "No traitor will escape punishment and all will be held accountable under the law of Ukraine," AFP quoted a statement from Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It has been understood that Medvedchuk reportedly fled shortly after Putin launched his invasion of Ukraine on February 24. He was announced to be missing after police said they did not find him at his home address on February 26.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv's crackdown on Medvedchuk had sparked anger in the Kremlin, with Putin vowing at one stage to "respond" to what he called a political persecution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov refused to comment on Medvedchuk's detention, telling Russian news wires that "there are a lot of fakes coming from Ukraine" and "this needs to be checked first".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also posted a picture online. "A special operation was carried out by the Security Service of Ukraine. Well done!" Zelensky wrote on Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky has also offered to swap Medvedchuk for Ukrainians captured by Russia. "I propose to the Russian Federation to exchange this guy of yours for our boys and our girls who are now in Russian captivity," Zelensky said in a video address posted on Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Russia accused of using phosphorus bombs in Ukraine. What are these?</strong></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


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. Ukraine on Tuesday (April 12) claimed that the authorities have captured a fugitive pro-Russian politician Viktor Medvedchuk, who is deemed to be the closest ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin in the country. News agencies have stated that the 67-year-old business tycoon Medvedchuk is one of the richest people in Ukraine and he has remained in controversy for his close ties to Moscow. If reports are to be believed, Medvedchuk counts Putin among his personal friends and says the Kremlin leader is godfather to his youngest daughter Darya. Undated and unlocated images of Medvedchuk were released by Ukraine's security service SBU that purportedly show the business tycoon in handcuffs and wearing a Ukrainian military uniform. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: President Biden accuses Russian forces of committing 'genocide' Ivan Bakanov, who is the security agency chief said that agents had carried out a "lightning-fast and dangerous multi-level special operation to detain" the Russia-friendly lawmaker. "No traitor will escape punishment and all will be held accountable under the law of Ukraine," AFP quoted a statement from Telegram. It has been understood that Medvedchuk reportedly fled shortly after Putin launched his invasion of Ukraine on February 24. He was announced to be missing after police said they did not find him at his home address on February 26. Kyiv's crackdown on Medvedchuk had sparked anger in the Kremlin, with Putin vowing at one stage to "respond" to what he called a political persecution. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov refused to comment on Medvedchuk's detention, telling Russian news wires that "there are a lot of fakes coming from Ukraine" and "this needs to be checked first". Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also posted a picture online. "A special operation was carried out by the Security Service of Ukraine. Well done!" Zelensky wrote on Telegram. Zelensky has also offered to swap Medvedchuk for Ukrainians captured by Russia. "I propose to the Russian Federation to exchange this guy of yours for our boys and our girls who are now in Russian captivity," Zelensky said in a video address posted on Telegram. WATCH | Russia accused of using phosphorus bombs in Ukraine. What are these? × (With inputs from agencies)

Viktor Medvedchuk: Ukraine captures Vladimir Putin ally; Zelensky offers to swap him for captured Ukrainians

<p>The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has created a sense of urgency among the other countries to strengthen their defence capabilities, especially in Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For example, recent reports stated that Finland and Sweden are poised to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as soon as possible.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by The Times, US officials said that NATO membership for both Nordic countries was "a topic of conversation and multiple sessions" during talks between the alliance's foreign ministers of Sweden and Finland last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-boris-johnsons-visit-us-says-joe-biden-doesnt-currently-have-any-plans-to-travel-to-ukraine-470275">After Boris Johnson's visit, US says Joe Biden 'doesn't currently have any plans' to travel to Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>However, Russia has warned both nations about the potential bids. On Monday (April 11), the Kremlin said that the possible accession of Sweden and Finland to the NATO military alliance would not bring stability to Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have repeatedly said that the alliance remains a tool geared towards confrontation … and its further expansion will not bring additional security to the European continent," news agency Reuters quoted Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He made the remarks to the reporters during a conference call after he was asked about the possibility of Sweden and Finland joining NATO.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-india-not-violating-any-sanctions-by-importing-russian-oil-470364">US says India not violating any sanctions by importing Russian oil</a></strong></p>

<p>NATO Secretary-General, Jens Stoltenberg, has said it would be possible to allow Finland and Sweden in "quite quickly" but NATO has not commented on what a fast-track process would be.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Atlantic Council Senior Fellow, Rachel Rizzo said in case both the countries apply for membership, their accession would need to be agreed by all 30 allies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“They work so closely with NATO in terms of exercises and in light of the Russian invasion, enhanced intelligence sharing that I do think that the relationship that NATO has already with Finland and Sweden means that there is a certain amount of protection that those two countries already have," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: What Modi told Biden</strong></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has created a sense of urgency among the other countries to strengthen their defence capabilities, especially in Europe. For example, recent reports stated that Finland and Sweden are poised to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as soon as possible.

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has created a sense of urgency among the other countries to strengthen their defence capabilities, especially in Europe. For example, recent reports stated that Finland and Sweden are poised to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as soon as possible. As quoted by The Times, US officials said that NATO membership for both Nordic countries was "a topic of conversation and multiple sessions" during talks between the alliance's foreign ministers of Sweden and Finland last week. ALSO READ | After Boris Johnson's visit, US says Joe Biden 'doesn't currently have any plans' to travel to Ukraine However, Russia has warned both nations about the potential bids. On Monday (April 11), the Kremlin said that the possible accession of Sweden and Finland to the NATO military alliance would not bring stability to Europe. "We have repeatedly said that the alliance remains a tool geared towards confrontation … and its further expansion will not bring additional security to the European continent," news agency Reuters quoted Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as saying. He made the remarks to the reporters during a conference call after he was asked about the possibility of Sweden and Finland joining NATO. ALSO READ | US says India not violating any sanctions by importing Russian oil NATO Secretary-General, Jens Stoltenberg, has said it would be possible to allow Finland and Sweden in "quite quickly" but NATO has not commented on what a fast-track process would be. Atlantic Council Senior Fellow, Rachel Rizzo said in case both the countries apply for membership, their accession would need to be agreed by all 30 allies. “They work so closely with NATO in terms of exercises and in light of the Russian invasion, enhanced intelligence sharing that I do think that the relationship that NATO has already with Finland and Sweden means that there is a certain amount of protection that those two countries already have," she said. WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: What Modi told Biden × (With inputs from agencies)

'Will not bring security to Europe': Russia warns Finland and Sweden against joining NATO

<p>Anything for Ukraine! Late singer John Lennon's son Julian had vowed to never perform his father's famous song 'Imagine'. However, Julian broke the rule to raise funds for the Ukraine refugees.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
On Saturday, Julian sang the famous song as part of the Global Citizen’s social media rally, 'Stand Up for Ukraine'.</p>

<p>“So today, for the first time ever, I publicly performed my Dad’s song, ‘Imagine’,” Julian wrote on Instagram a video of him singing the track.<br />
<br />
“Why now, after all these years?” he added. “I had always said, that the only time I would ever consider singing ‘Imagine’ would be if it was the ‘End of the World’ but also because his lyrics reflect our collective desire for peace worldwide. Because within this song, we’re transported to a space, where love and togetherness become our reality, if but for a moment in time.”</p>

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<p>Julian also called upon other world leaders and everyone who believes in the sentiments of 'Imagine' to stand up for refugees everywhere.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former Beatles star, John Lennon released “Imagine” in 1971. The song was inspired heavily by artist Yoko Ono, who used the word in many of her 1960s conceptual artworks. Lennon and Yoko Ono subsequently got married.&nbsp;</p>


Anything for Ukraine! Late singer John Lennon's son Julian had vowed to never perform his father's famous song 'Imagine'. However, Julian broke the rule to raise funds for the Ukraine refugees.

Anything for Ukraine! Late singer John Lennon's son Julian had vowed to never perform his father's famous song 'Imagine'. However, Julian broke the rule to raise funds for the Ukraine refugees. On Saturday, Julian sang the famous song as part of the Global Citizen’s social media rally, 'Stand Up for Ukraine'. “So today, for the first time ever, I publicly performed my Dad’s song, ‘Imagine’,” Julian wrote on Instagram a video of him singing the track. “Why now, after all these years?” he added. “I had always said, that the only time I would ever consider singing ‘Imagine’ would be if it was the ‘End of the World’ but also because his lyrics reflect our collective desire for peace worldwide. Because within this song, we’re transported to a space, where love and togetherness become our reality, if but for a moment in time.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Julian Lennon (@julespicturepalace) × Julian also called upon other world leaders and everyone who believes in the sentiments of 'Imagine' to stand up for refugees everywhere. Former Beatles star, John Lennon released “Imagine” in 1971. The song was inspired heavily by artist Yoko Ono, who used the word in many of her 1960s conceptual artworks. Lennon and Yoko Ono subsequently got married.

Julian Lennon performs his father's classic 'Imagine' for first time to raise funds for Ukrainian refugees

In pics: Thousands of protesters gather to call for help of Ukraine in US

<p>Shakhtar Donetsk will play European clubs in a series of charity matches with the proceeds to be spent on aid for people in Ukraine affected by the Russian invasion, the Ukrainian club said on Friday.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian Premier League side have not played since Russia invaded the country in February in what Moscow calls a "special military operation".</p>

<p>The first charity match is against Olympiakos in Athens on Saturday, followed by games against Lechia Gdansk (April 14), Fenerbahce (April 19) and Hajduk Split (May 1).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-opens-disciplinary-proceedings-against-atletico-madrid-for-discriminatory-behaviour-after-man-city-tie-469439">UEFA opens disciplinary proceedings against Atletico Madrid for 'discriminatory behaviour' after Man City tie</a></p>

<p>"We want to talk about war and peace in Ukraine through these matches. About the terrible war that Russia unleashed against Ukraine, about the suffering and destruction that this war brought to our country," Shakhtar CEO Sergei Palkin said.</p>

<p>"About peace – the need to end this madness, return to normal life and rebuild the country. Our messages are simple: stop war in Ukraine and football for peace – that says it all."</p>


Shakhtar Donetsk will play European clubs in a series of charity matches with the proceeds to be spent on aid for people in Ukraine affected by the Russian invasion, the Ukrainian club said on Friday.

Shakhtar Donetsk will play European clubs in a series of charity matches with the proceeds to be spent on aid for people in Ukraine affected by the Russian invasion, the Ukrainian club said on Friday. The Ukrainian Premier League side have not played since Russia invaded the country in February in what Moscow calls a "special military operation". The first charity match is against Olympiakos in Athens on Saturday, followed by games against Lechia Gdansk (April 14), Fenerbahce (April 19) and Hajduk Split (May 1). ALSO READ: UEFA opens disciplinary proceedings against Atletico Madrid for 'discriminatory behaviour' after Man City tie "We want to talk about war and peace in Ukraine through these matches. About the terrible war that Russia unleashed against Ukraine, about the suffering and destruction that this war brought to our country," Shakhtar CEO Sergei Palkin said. "About peace – the need to end this madness, return to normal life and rebuild the country. Our messages are simple: stop war in Ukraine and football for peace – that says it all."

Shakhtar to start peace-themed tour with proceeds going to Ukraine aid

<p>Japan&nbsp;said on Friday it will end imports of Russian coal and announced the expulsion of eight of Moscow's diplomats over "war crimes" in Ukraine.</p>

<p>The move comes as Ukraine's allies step up pressure on Moscow after allegations that Russian troops killed civilians in areas around Kyiv.</p>

<p>"Russian troops have killed civilians and have attacked nuclear facilities, gravely violating international humanitarian law. These are war crimes that can never be forgiven," Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told reporters.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rocket-strike-by-russians-on-station-in-ukraine-kills-30-injures-100-says-report-469355">Rocket strike by Russians on station in Ukraine kills 30, injures 100, says report &nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>"We will ban imports of Russian coal," he added, pledging to find alternatives and asking Japanese citizens for their "understanding and cooperation."</p>

<p>Japan&nbsp;imports around 11 per cent of its coal from Russia, and the fuel remains a key plank of the country's power generation.</p>

<p>Kishida said&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;would, in line with other Group of Seven developed nations, work to decrease its reliance on other energy imports from Russia, which include oil and gas, but he gave no specific timeframe.</p>

<p>He also outlined fresh sanctions, including new asset freezes and a ban on imports from Russia, including machinery and vodka, and said Tokyo would back efforts to investigate Moscow's actions at the International Criminal Court.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-abstains-despite-russias-warning-469230">Gravitas: India abstains despite Russia's warning</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier,&nbsp;Japan's foreign ministry announced the expulsion of eight Russian diplomats from the embassy and trade office.</p>

<p>The decision does not affect Russia's ambassador Mikhail Yurievich Galuzin.</p>

<p>Japan&nbsp;has marched in lockstep with Western allies on sanctions against Russia, and has even welcomed several hundred Ukrainians fleeing the conflict despite generally accepting very few refugees.</p>

<p>Tokyo had complex relations with Moscow before the Ukrainian invasion and the two sides have yet to sign a post-World War II peace treaty.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-verifies-103-attacks-on-ukrainian-health-care-facilities-and-ambulances-469345">WHO verifies 103 attacks on Ukrainian health care facilities and ambulances</a></strong></p>

<p>Attempts to do so have been hampered by a long-running dispute over islands controlled by Russia, which calls them the Kurils.</p>

<p>Japan&nbsp;calls the islands the Northern Territories and has long sought to have them under Tokyo's control.</p>


Japan said on Friday it will end imports of Russian coal and announced the expulsion of eight of Moscow's diplomats over "war crimes" in Ukraine. The move comes as Ukraine's allies step up pressure on Moscow after allegations that Russian troops killed civilians in areas around Kyiv.

Japan said on Friday it will end imports of Russian coal and announced the expulsion of eight of Moscow's diplomats over "war crimes" in Ukraine. The move comes as Ukraine's allies step up pressure on Moscow after allegations that Russian troops killed civilians in areas around Kyiv. "Russian troops have killed civilians and have attacked nuclear facilities, gravely violating international humanitarian law. These are war crimes that can never be forgiven," Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told reporters. Also read | Rocket strike by Russians on station in Ukraine kills 30, injures 100, says report "We will ban imports of Russian coal," he added, pledging to find alternatives and asking Japanese citizens for their "understanding and cooperation." Japan imports around 11 per cent of its coal from Russia, and the fuel remains a key plank of the country's power generation. Kishida said Japan would, in line with other Group of Seven developed nations, work to decrease its reliance on other energy imports from Russia, which include oil and gas, but he gave no specific timeframe. He also outlined fresh sanctions, including new asset freezes and a ban on imports from Russia, including machinery and vodka, and said Tokyo would back efforts to investigate Moscow's actions at the International Criminal Court. Watch | Gravitas: India abstains despite Russia's warning Earlier, Japan's foreign ministry announced the expulsion of eight Russian diplomats from the embassy and trade office. The decision does not affect Russia's ambassador Mikhail Yurievich Galuzin. Japan has marched in lockstep with Western allies on sanctions against Russia, and has even welcomed several hundred Ukrainians fleeing the conflict despite generally accepting very few refugees. Tokyo had complex relations with Moscow before the Ukrainian invasion and the two sides have yet to sign a post-World War II peace treaty. Also read | WHO verifies 103 attacks on Ukrainian health care facilities and ambulances Attempts to do so have been hampered by a long-running dispute over islands controlled by Russia, which calls them the Kurils. Japan calls the islands the Northern Territories and has long sought to have them under Tokyo's control.

Ukraine war: Japan ends Russian coal imports, expels Moscow's diplomats

<p>Britain added Vladimir Putin's daughters to its&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;list on Friday, mirroring moves by the United States, in what it said was an effort to target the lifestyles of those in the Russian president's inner circle.</p>

<p>Following the Russian invasion of&nbsp;Ukraine, Britain and other Western allies have announced several waves of&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;targetting Moscow's wealthy elites, key industries and its access to the international financial system.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rocket-strike-by-russians-on-station-in-ukraine-kills-30-injures-100-says-report-469355">Russian rocket strike on Ukraine train station kills 30, injures 100, say reports&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>An update to Britain's&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;list announced asset freezes on Putin's adult daughters Katerina Tikhonova and Maria Vorontsova, and Sergeyevna Vinokurova, the daughter of foreign minister Sergei Lavrov. All three were sanctioned by the United States earlier this week.</p>

<p>"Our unprecedented package of&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;is hitting the elite and their families, while degrading the Russian economy on a scale Russia hasn’t seen since the fall of the Soviet Union," Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-conflict-borodyanka-destruction-more-horrific-than-bucha-says-zelensky-469254">Ukraine-Russia conflict: Borodyanka destruction 'more horrific' than Bucha, says Zelensky</a></strong></p>

<p>Britain also said its analysis showed Russia is heading for the deepest recession since the collapse of the Soviet Union. Britain estimates that 60 per cent&nbsp;of Russian foreign currency reserves have been frozen as a result of international&nbsp;sanctions.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine conflict: Ukraine asks for more weapons from NATO</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-conflict-ukraine-asks-for-more-weapons-from-nato-469098/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>On Thursday, the Kremlin, which says its actions are a "special military operation" to disarm and "denazify"&nbsp;Ukraine, described the move against Putin's daughters as part of a broader Western frenzy against Russia.</p>


Britain added Vladimir Putin's daughters to its sanctions list on Friday, mirroring moves by the United States, in what it said was an effort to target the lifestyles of those in the Russian president's inner circle.

Britain added Vladimir Putin's daughters to its sanctions list on Friday, mirroring moves by the United States, in what it said was an effort to target the lifestyles of those in the Russian president's inner circle. Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Britain and other Western allies have announced several waves of sanctions targetting Moscow's wealthy elites, key industries and its access to the international financial system. Also read | Russian rocket strike on Ukraine train station kills 30, injures 100, say reports An update to Britain's sanctions list announced asset freezes on Putin's adult daughters Katerina Tikhonova and Maria Vorontsova, and Sergeyevna Vinokurova, the daughter of foreign minister Sergei Lavrov. All three were sanctioned by the United States earlier this week. "Our unprecedented package of sanctions is hitting the elite and their families, while degrading the Russian economy on a scale Russia hasn’t seen since the fall of the Soviet Union," Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said in a statement. Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: Borodyanka destruction 'more horrific' than Bucha, says Zelensky Britain also said its analysis showed Russia is heading for the deepest recession since the collapse of the Soviet Union. Britain estimates that 60 per cent of Russian foreign currency reserves have been frozen as a result of international sanctions. Watch | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Ukraine asks for more weapons from NATO On Thursday, the Kremlin, which says its actions are a "special military operation" to disarm and "denazify" Ukraine, described the move against Putin's daughters as part of a broader Western frenzy against Russia.

UK sanctions Russian President Vladimir Putin's daughters

<p>World&nbsp;food&nbsp;prices&nbsp;jumped nearly 13 per cent&nbsp;in March to a new record high as the war in Ukraine caused turmoil in markets for staple grains and edible oils, the UN&nbsp;food&nbsp;agency said on Friday.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;Food&nbsp;and Agriculture Organization's (FAO)&nbsp;food&nbsp;price index, which tracks the most globally traded&nbsp;food&nbsp;commodities, averaged 159.3 points last month versus an upwardly revised 141.4 for February.</p>

<p>The February figure was previously put at 140.7, which was a record at the time.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-un-to-vote-on-expelling-russia-from-human-rights-council-469160">Explained: UN to vote on expelling Russia from Human Rights Council</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia and Ukraine are major exporters of wheat, corn, barley and sunflower oil via the Black Sea, and Moscow's six-week-old invasion of its neighbour has stalled Ukrainian exports.</p>

<p>The FAO last month said&nbsp;food&nbsp;and feed&nbsp;prices&nbsp;could rise by up to 20 per cent&nbsp;as a result of the conflict in Ukraine, raising the risk of increased malnutrition.</p>

<p>The agency's cereal price index climbed 17 per cent&nbsp;in March to a record level while its vegetable oil index surged 23 per cent , also registering its highest reading yet, FAO said.</p>

<p>Disruption to supplies of crops from the Black Sea region has exacerbated price rises in&nbsp;food&nbsp;commodities, which were already running at 10-year highs in the FAO's index before the war in Ukraine due to global harvest issues.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Transforming food and forestry to curb global warming important: UN</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/transforming-food-and-forestry-to-curb-global-warming-important-un-468882/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Sugar and dairy&nbsp;prices&nbsp;also rose sharply last month, the FAO said.</p>

<p>In separate cereal supply and demand estimates on Friday, the FAO cut its projection of world wheat production in 2022 to 784 million tonnes, from 790 million last month, as it factored in the possibility that at least 20% of Ukraine's winter crop area would not be harvested.</p>

<p>The revised global wheat output estimate was nonetheless 1 per cent above the previous year's level, it said.</p>

<p>The agency lowered its projection of global cereals trade in the 2021/22 marketing year as increased exports from Argentina, India, the European Union and the United States were expected to only offset some of the disruption to Black Sea exports.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-did-india-abstain-from-voting-against-russia-in-unga-469296">Why did India abstain from voting against Russia in UNGA?</a></strong></p>

<p>Total cereal trade in 2021/22 was revised down by 14.6 million tonnes from the previous monthly outlook to 469 million tonnes, now 2 per cent&nbsp;below the 2020/21 level.</p>

<p>Projected world cereal stocks at the end of 2021/22 were revised up by 15 million tonnes to nearly 851 million tonnes, mainly because of expectations that export disruption will lead to bigger stockpiles in Ukraine and Russia, the FAO added.</p>


World food prices jumped nearly 13 per cent in March to a new record high as the war in Ukraine caused turmoil in markets for staple grains and edible oils, the UN food agency said on Friday.

World food prices jumped nearly 13 per cent in March to a new record high as the war in Ukraine caused turmoil in markets for staple grains and edible oils, the UN food agency said on Friday. The Food and Agriculture Organization's (FAO) food price index, which tracks the most globally traded food commodities, averaged 159.3 points last month versus an upwardly revised 141.4 for February. The February figure was previously put at 140.7, which was a record at the time. Also read | Explained: UN to vote on expelling Russia from Human Rights Council Russia and Ukraine are major exporters of wheat, corn, barley and sunflower oil via the Black Sea, and Moscow's six-week-old invasion of its neighbour has stalled Ukrainian exports. The FAO last month said food and feed prices could rise by up to 20 per cent as a result of the conflict in Ukraine, raising the risk of increased malnutrition. The agency's cereal price index climbed 17 per cent in March to a record level while its vegetable oil index surged 23 per cent , also registering its highest reading yet, FAO said. Disruption to supplies of crops from the Black Sea region has exacerbated price rises in food commodities, which were already running at 10-year highs in the FAO's index before the war in Ukraine due to global harvest issues. Watch | Transforming food and forestry to curb global warming important: UN Sugar and dairy prices also rose sharply last month, the FAO said. In separate cereal supply and demand estimates on Friday, the FAO cut its projection of world wheat production in 2022 to 784 million tonnes, from 790 million last month, as it factored in the possibility that at least 20% of Ukraine's winter crop area would not be harvested. The revised global wheat output estimate was nonetheless 1 per cent above the previous year's level, it said. The agency lowered its projection of global cereals trade in the 2021/22 marketing year as increased exports from Argentina, India, the European Union and the United States were expected to only offset some of the disruption to Black Sea exports. Also read | Why did India abstain from voting against Russia in UNGA? Total cereal trade in 2021/22 was revised down by 14.6 million tonnes from the previous monthly outlook to 469 million tonnes, now 2 per cent below the 2020/21 level. Projected world cereal stocks at the end of 2021/22 were revised up by 15 million tonnes to nearly 851 million tonnes, mainly because of expectations that export disruption will lead to bigger stockpiles in Ukraine and Russia, the FAO added.

Food prices hit record high in March, UN agency says

<p>The website of&nbsp;Gazprom&nbsp;Neft, the oil arm of Russian state gas giant&nbsp;Gazprom, went down on Wednesday (April 6) after an apparent hack, in what looked like the latest attack on government-linked sites following Russia's actions in Ukraine.</p>

<p>The website briefly showed a statement purporting to be from&nbsp;Gazprom&nbsp;chief executive Alexei Miller, a close ally of President Vladimir Putin.</p>

<p>Miller last month urged the gas giant's 500,000 employees to rally around Putin to preserve Russia as a great power in the face of foreign hostility.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-us-threatens-beijing-with-sanctions-if-it-provides-material-support-to-moscow-468963">Russia-Ukraine war: US threatens Beijing with sanctions if it provides ‘material support’ to Moscow</a></strong></p>

<p>The statement attributed to him on what looked like a hacked version of the site cited him as making critical comments about Russia's decision to send tens of thousands of troops into neighbouring Ukraine, where thousands of soldiers and civilians have been killed.</p>

<p>The website stopped working soon afterwards.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Global Headlines: Zelensky addresses Irish Parliament | Candlelight vigil for war victims</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-global-headlines-zelensky-addresses-irish-parliament-candlelight-vigil-for-war-victims-468942/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"The information published on the site on the morning of April 6 ... is not true and cannot be regarded as an official statement of the company's representatives or shareholders,"&nbsp;Gazprom&nbsp;Neft said.</p>

<p>A&nbsp;Gazprom&nbsp;spokesperson dismissed the statement on the website as nonsense.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-says-russia-hiding-thousands-killed-in-mariupol-468954">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says Russia hiding 'thousands' killed in Mariupol</a></strong></p>

<p>The website of the state news agency TASS was hacked in February to show a message calling for Moscow to halt what it calls its "special operation" in Ukraine.</p>


The website of Gazprom Neft, the oil arm of Russian state gas giant Gazprom, went down on Wednesday (April 6) after an apparent hack, in what looked like the latest attack on government-linked sites following Russia's actions in Ukraine.

The website of Gazprom Neft, the oil arm of Russian state gas giant Gazprom, went down on Wednesday (April 6) after an apparent hack, in what looked like the latest attack on government-linked sites following Russia's actions in Ukraine. The website briefly showed a statement purporting to be from Gazprom chief executive Alexei Miller, a close ally of President Vladimir Putin. Miller last month urged the gas giant's 500,000 employees to rally around Putin to preserve Russia as a great power in the face of foreign hostility. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: US threatens Beijing with sanctions if it provides ‘material support’ to Moscow The statement attributed to him on what looked like a hacked version of the site cited him as making critical comments about Russia's decision to send tens of thousands of troops into neighbouring Ukraine, where thousands of soldiers and civilians have been killed. The website stopped working soon afterwards. Watch | Gravitas Global Headlines: Zelensky addresses Irish Parliament | Candlelight vigil for war victims "The information published on the site on the morning of April 6 ... is not true and cannot be regarded as an official statement of the company's representatives or shareholders," Gazprom Neft said. A Gazprom spokesperson dismissed the statement on the website as nonsense. Also read | Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says Russia hiding 'thousands' killed in Mariupol The website of the state news agency TASS was hacked in February to show a message calling for Moscow to halt what it calls its "special operation" in Ukraine.

Website of Russian oil company Gazprom Neft goes down after apparent hack

<p>The White House on Wednesday (April 6) reiterated that the United States is ready to support India as another option for energy imports to counter ties with Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Just like other countries, India has also been hit hard by rising crude values due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The conflict resulted in prices soaring, in some states, prices touched record highs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In order to mitigate the rising cost of oil imports, PM Narendra Modi's government has turned to Russian barrels that are available at discounts, a move not liked by some countries like the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-says-russia-hiding-thousands-killed-in-mariupol-468954">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says Russia hiding 'thousands' killed in Mariupol</a></strong></p>

<p>Responding to the same, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters at her daily news conference:&nbsp;"We do not think India should accelerate or increase imports of Russian energy and other commodities even as, obviously, those decisions are made by individual countries."&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added, "And (the US is) also making clear that we stand ready to support India as in any efforts to diversify its imports and serve as a reliable supplier even as they're only importing about one to two per cent of their oil from Russia."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In reference to the US Deputy National Security Advisor Daleep Singh's New Delhi visit last week, Psaki said that the US has a range of ways to "communicate and engage". Singh visited to discuss with Indian officials on the Russian sanctions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO&nbsp;READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-impact-of-war-on-ukraines-comedian-president-and-an-unlikely-wartime-leader-468665">How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Tune in for a briefing with Press Secretary Jen Psaki. <a href="https://t.co/q9KkGNNTM8">https://t.co/q9KkGNNTM8</a></p>
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<p>She said, "We have a range of ways to communicate and engage. And obviously, sending our Deputy National Security Advisor is an example of that. But clearly, our preference would be to have a confirmed ambassador."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, on Wednesday (April 5), India's foreign minister said that the government is working to stabilise economic transactions with Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India has also condemned the reports of killings of civilians in Ukraine and urged using diplomatic channels to defuse the situation and end the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: India condemns mass killings in Bucha</strong></p>

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The White House on Wednesday (April 6) reiterated that the United States is ready to support India as another option for energy imports to counter ties with Russia.

The White House on Wednesday (April 6) reiterated that the United States is ready to support India as another option for energy imports to counter ties with Russia. Just like other countries, India has also been hit hard by rising crude values due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The conflict resulted in prices soaring, in some states, prices touched record highs. In order to mitigate the rising cost of oil imports, PM Narendra Modi's government has turned to Russian barrels that are available at discounts, a move not liked by some countries like the US. ALSO READ | Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says Russia hiding 'thousands' killed in Mariupol Responding to the same, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters at her daily news conference: "We do not think India should accelerate or increase imports of Russian energy and other commodities even as, obviously, those decisions are made by individual countries." She added, "And (the US is) also making clear that we stand ready to support India as in any efforts to diversify its imports and serve as a reliable supplier even as they're only importing about one to two per cent of their oil from Russia." In reference to the US Deputy National Security Advisor Daleep Singh's New Delhi visit last week, Psaki said that the US has a range of ways to "communicate and engage". Singh visited to discuss with Indian officials on the Russian sanctions. ALSO READ | How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky Tune in for a briefing with Press Secretary Jen Psaki. https://t.co/q9KkGNNTM8 — The White House (@WhiteHouse) April 6, 2022 × She said, "We have a range of ways to communicate and engage. And obviously, sending our Deputy National Security Advisor is an example of that. But clearly, our preference would be to have a confirmed ambassador." Meanwhile, on Wednesday (April 5), India's foreign minister said that the government is working to stabilise economic transactions with Russia. India has also condemned the reports of killings of civilians in Ukraine and urged using diplomatic channels to defuse the situation and end the war. WATCH | Gravitas: India condemns mass killings in Bucha ×

White House says US ready to become India's 'reliable supplier' to counter Russia dependence

<p>Britain insisted Thursday it was sticking to its&nbsp;climate&nbsp;change goals despite unveiling a new energy strategy that foresees new drilling for North Sea fossil fuels.</p>

<p>After weeks of cabinet infighting, the government finally released its strategy as Britons struggle with soaring energy prices following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>The plan envisions eight new nuclear power stations, a five-fold increase in solar and enough electricity from offshore wind to power every UK home by 2030.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aukus-pact-australia-us-uk-agree-to-cooperate-on-hypersonic-weapons-and-electronic-warfare-capabilities-468737">US tests hypersonic missile; Australia, US, UK agree to cooperate on hypersonic weapons</a></strong></p>

<p>But to the dismay of environmentalists, the politically charged problem of onshore wind turbines -- cheaper and quicker to build than offshore -- was left on the backburner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>And campaign groups said plans to offer new licences to drill for North Sea oil and gas made a mockery of Prime Minister Boris Johnson's legally enshrined commitment to make Britain carbon net zero by 2050.</p>

<p>"This isn't an energy security strategy and will do nothing to bring down energy bills," argued Ed Matthew, campaigns director at&nbsp;climate&nbsp;change think tank E3G.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is a national security threat and the person who will be happiest with it is&nbsp;(Russian President) Vladimir Putin," he said.</p>

<p>But the government says the market shock from sanctions on Russia has forced a temporary reappraisal of fossil fuels, as Britons confront the worst cost-of-living crisis since the 1950s.</p>

<p>Business and Energy Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng denied the government had turned its back on net zero.</p>

<p>"Not at all," he told Sky News. "It's still in the law of the land, we're focused on that.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Global Headlines: The fight against climate change, Bangladesh Protests, Corsica clashes</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-global-headlines-the-fight-against-climate-change-bangladesh-protests-corsica-clashes-468396/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"But of course given what's happening around the world, given the pressure on energy prices, we're also doing lots of other things to make sure we get energy independence back into the UK," he said.</p>

<p>The government acknowledges that the strategy will do little to curb household energy bills in the near term, which Johnson said had "absolutely soared" after Putin's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Madness</strong></p>

<p>But in a social media video promoting the new strategy, the prime minister stressed: "We just can't carry on like this."</p>

<p>The plan would make British energy "cleaner, more affordable and more secure", he said.</p>

<p>Johnson vowed that "instead of a new reactor every decade, we will have a new reactor every year".</p>

<p>He went on to visit a new nuclear plant under construction at Hinkley Point in southwest England -- which is years overdue and billions over budget.</p>

<p>The plan flagged a new competition to find UK manufacturers of electric heat pumps -- which are much more efficient than gas-fired household boilers, but also much more expensive.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-warns-that-its-now-or-never-to-avoid-climate-catastrophe-468369">United Nations warns that it's 'now or never' to avoid climate catastrophe</a></strong></p>

<p>Otherwise, as critics noted, it had nothing to say about cutting down on energy wastage and improving efficiency in homes, after the finance ministry reportedly vetoed new spending on that front.</p>

<p>"This strategy comprehensively fails to stand up to Putin's violence, to take the sting out of soaring energy bills, or take control of the spiralling&nbsp;climate&nbsp;crisis," said Rebecca Newsom, head of politics at Greenpeace UK.</p>

<p>United Nations secretary-general Antonio Guterres, marking the launch Monday of the latest UN report on&nbsp;climate&nbsp;change, said it was "moral and economic madness" to invest any more in fossil fuels.</p>

<p>The 3,000-page report warned that countries risk ending up with trillions in worthless assets such as offshore platforms and pipelines when demand for fossil fuels wanes in coming decades.</p>

<p>For the UK government, however, political pressure to tackle the energy crisis has been heating up ahead of nationwide local elections on May 5.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-famous-personalities-with-under-18-year-audience-to-be-banned-from-featuring-in-gambling-advertisements-468532">&nbsp;UK: Famous personalities with under-18-year audience to be banned from featuring in gambling ads</a></strong></p>

<p>Ed Miliband,&nbsp;climate&nbsp;spokesman for the opposition Labour party, said Conservative backbenchers opposed to onshore turbines in rural England were "holding the government's energy policy to ransom".</p>

<p>"And people are paying higher bills as a result," he told BBC radio.</p>


Britain insisted Thursday it was sticking to its climate change goals despite unveiling a new energy strategy that foresees new drilling for North Sea fossil fuels.

Britain insisted Thursday it was sticking to its climate change goals despite unveiling a new energy strategy that foresees new drilling for North Sea fossil fuels. After weeks of cabinet infighting, the government finally released its strategy as Britons struggle with soaring energy prices following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The plan envisions eight new nuclear power stations, a five-fold increase in solar and enough electricity from offshore wind to power every UK home by 2030. Also read | US tests hypersonic missile; Australia, US, UK agree to cooperate on hypersonic weapons But to the dismay of environmentalists, the politically charged problem of onshore wind turbines -- cheaper and quicker to build than offshore -- was left on the backburner. And campaign groups said plans to offer new licences to drill for North Sea oil and gas made a mockery of Prime Minister Boris Johnson's legally enshrined commitment to make Britain carbon net zero by 2050. "This isn't an energy security strategy and will do nothing to bring down energy bills," argued Ed Matthew, campaigns director at climate change think tank E3G. "It is a national security threat and the person who will be happiest with it is (Russian President) Vladimir Putin," he said. But the government says the market shock from sanctions on Russia has forced a temporary reappraisal of fossil fuels, as Britons confront the worst cost-of-living crisis since the 1950s. Business and Energy Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng denied the government had turned its back on net zero. "Not at all," he told Sky News. "It's still in the law of the land, we're focused on that. Watch | Gravitas Global Headlines: The fight against climate change, Bangladesh Protests, Corsica clashes "But of course given what's happening around the world, given the pressure on energy prices, we're also doing lots of other things to make sure we get energy independence back into the UK," he said. The government acknowledges that the strategy will do little to curb household energy bills in the near term, which Johnson said had "absolutely soared" after Putin's invasion of Ukraine. Madness But in a social media video promoting the new strategy, the prime minister stressed: "We just can't carry on like this." The plan would make British energy "cleaner, more affordable and more secure", he said. Johnson vowed that "instead of a new reactor every decade, we will have a new reactor every year". He went on to visit a new nuclear plant under construction at Hinkley Point in southwest England -- which is years overdue and billions over budget. The plan flagged a new competition to find UK manufacturers of electric heat pumps -- which are much more efficient than gas-fired household boilers, but also much more expensive. Also read | United Nations warns that it's 'now or never' to avoid climate catastrophe Otherwise, as critics noted, it had nothing to say about cutting down on energy wastage and improving efficiency in homes, after the finance ministry reportedly vetoed new spending on that front. "This strategy comprehensively fails to stand up to Putin's violence, to take the sting out of soaring energy bills, or take control of the spiralling climate crisis," said Rebecca Newsom, head of politics at Greenpeace UK. United Nations secretary-general Antonio Guterres, marking the launch Monday of the latest UN report on climate change, said it was "moral and economic madness" to invest any more in fossil fuels. The 3,000-page report warned that countries risk ending up with trillions in worthless assets such as offshore platforms and pipelines when demand for fossil fuels wanes in coming decades. For the UK government, however, political pressure to tackle the energy crisis has been heating up ahead of nationwide local elections on May 5. Also read | UK: Famous personalities with under-18-year audience to be banned from featuring in gambling ads Ed Miliband, climate spokesman for the opposition Labour party, said Conservative backbenchers opposed to onshore turbines in rural England were "holding the government's energy policy to ransom". "And people are paying higher bills as a result," he told BBC radio.

UK denies climate retreat despite rethink on fossil fuels

<p>The United Nations General Assembly will&nbsp;vote&nbsp;on Thursday on a U.S. push to suspend Russia from the UN Human Rights Council over&nbsp;reports of "gross and systematic violations and abuses of&nbsp;human&nbsp;rights" by invading&nbsp;Russian troops in&nbsp;Ukraine.</p>

<p>A two-thirds majority of voting members - abstentions do not count - can suspend a country&nbsp;from&nbsp;the 47-member&nbsp;council. Libya was suspended in 2011 because of violence against protesters by forces loyal to then-leader Muammar Gaddafi.</p>

<p>Western diplomats are confident they have enough support among the 193-member General Assembly to adopt a resolution to suspend Moscow. The draft text expresses "grave concern at the ongoing&nbsp;human&nbsp;rights&nbsp;and&nbsp;humanitarian crisis in&nbsp;Ukraine," particularly at reports of&nbsp;rights&nbsp;abuses by&nbsp;Russia.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-russian-forces-completely-withdrawn-from-kyiv-and-chernihiv-ukraine-can-absolutely-win-war-469001">US: Russian forces 'completely' withdrawn from Kyiv and Chernihiv; Ukraine can 'absolutely' win war</a></strong></p>

<p>Explaining the move, announced on Monday, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield told Reuters: "It is important to say (to&nbsp;Russia) 'we're not going to allow you to continue to act with such impunity and pretend that you respect&nbsp;human&nbsp;rights'."</p>

<p>Russia&nbsp;has warned countries that a yes&nbsp;vote&nbsp;or abstention will be viewed as an "unfriendly gesture" with consequences for bilateral ties, according to a note seen by Reuters.</p>

<p>Since&nbsp;Russia's invasion of&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;began on Feb. 24, the Assembly has adopted two resolutions denouncing&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;with 141 and 140&nbsp;votes in favor. Moscow says it is carrying out a "special operation" to demilitarize&nbsp;Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: India condemns mass killings in Bucha</strong></p>

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<p>The United States announced it would seek&nbsp;Russia's suspension after&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;accused&nbsp;Russian troops of killing hundreds of civilians in the town of Bucha.</p>

<p>Russia&nbsp;denies attacking civilians in&nbsp;Ukraine.&nbsp;U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said on Tuesday that while Bucha was under&nbsp;Russian control "not a single civilian suffered&nbsp;from&nbsp;any kind of violence."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-us-threatens-beijing-with-sanctions-if-it-provides-material-support-to-moscow-468963">Russia-Ukraine war: US threatens Beijing with sanctions if it provides ‘material support’ to Moscow</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia&nbsp;is in its second year of a three-year term on the Geneva-based&nbsp;Human&nbsp;Rights&nbsp;Council, which cannot make legally binding decisions. Its decisions send important political messages, however, and it can authorize investigations.</p>

<p>Last month the&nbsp;council&nbsp;opened an investigation into allegations of&nbsp;rights&nbsp;violations, including possible war crimes, in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;since&nbsp;Russia's attack.</p>


The United Nations General Assembly will vote on Thursday on a U.S. push to suspend Russia from the UN Human Rights Council over reports of "gross and systematic violations and abuses of human rights" by invading Russian troops in Ukraine.

The United Nations General Assembly will vote on Thursday on a U.S. push to suspend Russia from the UN Human Rights Council over reports of "gross and systematic violations and abuses of human rights" by invading Russian troops in Ukraine. A two-thirds majority of voting members - abstentions do not count - can suspend a country from the 47-member council. Libya was suspended in 2011 because of violence against protesters by forces loyal to then-leader Muammar Gaddafi. Western diplomats are confident they have enough support among the 193-member General Assembly to adopt a resolution to suspend Moscow. The draft text expresses "grave concern at the ongoing human rights and humanitarian crisis in Ukraine," particularly at reports of rights abuses by Russia. Also read | US: Russian forces 'completely' withdrawn from Kyiv and Chernihiv; Ukraine can 'absolutely' win war Explaining the move, announced on Monday, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield told Reuters: "It is important to say (to Russia) 'we're not going to allow you to continue to act with such impunity and pretend that you respect human rights'." Russia has warned countries that a yes vote or abstention will be viewed as an "unfriendly gesture" with consequences for bilateral ties, according to a note seen by Reuters. Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine began on Feb. 24, the Assembly has adopted two resolutions denouncing Russia with 141 and 140 votes in favor. Moscow says it is carrying out a "special operation" to demilitarize Ukraine. Watch | Gravitas: India condemns mass killings in Bucha The United States announced it would seek Russia's suspension after Ukraine accused Russian troops of killing hundreds of civilians in the town of Bucha. Russia denies attacking civilians in Ukraine. U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said on Tuesday that while Bucha was under Russian control "not a single civilian suffered from any kind of violence." Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: US threatens Beijing with sanctions if it provides ‘material support’ to Moscow Russia is in its second year of a three-year term on the Geneva-based Human Rights Council, which cannot make legally binding decisions. Its decisions send important political messages, however, and it can authorize investigations. Last month the council opened an investigation into allegations of rights violations, including possible war crimes, in Ukraine since Russia's attack.

Ukraine war: United Nations to vote on suspending Russia from Human Rights Council

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<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p>A senior US defence official on Wednesday (April 6) claimed that Russian forces completely withdraw from Ukrainian areas around capital city Kyiv and northern city of&nbsp;Chernihiv in order to regroup in Belarus and Russia. Recent reports have stated that Russian forces are now shifting&nbsp;their focus to eastern Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by media outlet The Hill, the official said, "We aren't showing Russian forces in or around Kyiv or to the north of Kyiv, and we're not showing Russian forces in or around Chernihiv."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official added, "We have now seen that the Russians have moved from the north into Belarus and to Russia for refit and resupply. We have seen indications that that refit and resupply is occurring."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-says-russia-hiding-thousands-killed-in-mariupol-468954">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says Russia hiding 'thousands' killed in Mariupol</a></strong></p>

<p>The media report also stated that Russian troops are shelling major cities continuously as they retreat. The official said that overall, the Russian military has launched more than 1,450 missiles against Ukraine since the invasion began.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the official said that "we are assessing that they have completely withdrawn from Kyiv and from Chernihiv."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Pentagon also said on Wednesday that it assessed that Ukraine could win the war against Russia, even as US officials speak of the risk of a protracted conflict.</p>

<p>Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told a news briefing, "Of course they [Ukraine] can win this. The proof is literally in the outcomes that you're seeing everyday ... absolutely they can win."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO&nbsp;READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-impact-of-war-on-ukraines-comedian-president-and-an-unlikely-wartime-leader-468665">How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;New sanctions on Russia: UK targets Sberbank and credit bank of Moscow</strong></p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. A senior US defence official on Wednesday (April 6) claimed that Russian forces completely withdraw from Ukrainian areas around capital city Kyiv and northern city of Chernihiv in order to regroup in Belarus and Russia. Recent reports have stated that Russian forces are now shifting their focus to eastern Ukraine. As quoted by media outlet The Hill, the official said, "We aren't showing Russian forces in or around Kyiv or to the north of Kyiv, and we're not showing Russian forces in or around Chernihiv." The official added, "We have now seen that the Russians have moved from the north into Belarus and to Russia for refit and resupply. We have seen indications that that refit and resupply is occurring." ALSO READ | Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says Russia hiding 'thousands' killed in Mariupol The media report also stated that Russian troops are shelling major cities continuously as they retreat. The official said that overall, the Russian military has launched more than 1,450 missiles against Ukraine since the invasion began. However, the official said that "we are assessing that they have completely withdrawn from Kyiv and from Chernihiv." Meanwhile, the Pentagon also said on Wednesday that it assessed that Ukraine could win the war against Russia, even as US officials speak of the risk of a protracted conflict. Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told a news briefing, "Of course they [Ukraine] can win this. The proof is literally in the outcomes that you're seeing everyday ... absolutely they can win." ALSO READ | How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky WATCH | New sanctions on Russia: UK targets Sberbank and credit bank of Moscow ×

US: Russian forces 'completely' withdrawn from Kyiv and Chernihiv; Ukraine can 'absolutely' win war

<p>A photo of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky taken on February 23 this year, just a day before his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin ordered a special "military operation" in Ukraine, portrays a different story than the photo taken on April 4. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The large scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia, deemed "unprovoked and unjustified" by the West, is no doubt an unprecedented crisis for the country. Shelling and constant bombings by Russian troops have left the eastern European nation in tatters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Millions of people have been displaced and at least $100 billion worth of infrastructure, buildings and other physical assets have been destroyed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian authorities have claimed hundreds died and reports of loot, rape and torture by Russian troops also emerged. Although, Moscow has "categorically" denied all the allegations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-ukraine-had-no-option-but-to-negotiate-with-russia-to-end-war-but-will-putin-hold-talks-468562">Zelensky says Ukraine had 'no option but to negotiate' with Russia to end war. But will Putin hold talks?</a></strong></p>

<p>Amid all the chaos, the Ukrainian President rose to the occasion and gradually become the face of Ukraine's resistance with emotional appeals and impassioned speeches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He has been urging world powers to send military assistance and humanitarian aid. He is also finding diplomatic ways to end the war without compromising Ukraine's sovereignty and peace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But recent pictures have shown how the ongoing war changed situations. On Monday (April 4), Zelensky visited the town of Bucha outside the capital Kyiv where dozens of corpses, some with their hands bound, were allegedly discovered after Russian forces withdrew.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A teary-eyed Ukrainian leader told reporters, "Every day, when our fighters enter and retake territory, you see what's been happening."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These are war crimes and it will be recognised by the world as genocide. You stand here today and see what happened. We know that thousands of people have been killed and tortured with extremities cut off, women raped, children killed," he told reporters, adding that "it's genocide."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-mums-write-family-contacts-on-bodies-of-their-babies-and-europe-is-still-discussing-gas-468513">'Ukrainian mums write family contacts on bodies of their babies and Europe is still discussing gas'</a></strong></p>

<p>For the unversed, the 44-year-old Zelensky rose to fame via comedy. He was the star of a popular TV show in Ukraine called "Servant of the People". In the show, he played the role of president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When Zelensky addressed the nation after Russia recognised two Ukrainian separatist regions as independent states and moved troops to the border, he wore a suit and tie and boldly mentioned Ukraine's resistance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, when he addressed the nation on April 4 over alleged Bucha atrocities, he was wearing a bullet-proof vest and accompanied by military personnel and talked about "genocide" and "mass killings".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The world has seen and lauded Ukrainian resistance, but at what cost? This is yet to be analysed. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Ever since the invasion began, the "unlikely wartime leader" swapped his tailored navy suits, white shirts and ties with a simple and basic olive green T-shirt — the kind people generally wear for workouts or mostly soldiers wear under military fatigues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky wears a simple green T-shirt in solidarity with his fellow soldiers who are either dead or risking their lives to protect and defend the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by Insider stated that "Presidents often leave the office with more grey hair than they had when they entered". The stress will be double&nbsp;if their tenure had a war or war-like situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But some dermatologists say Presidents experience an "expedited ageing process" due to the stress of the office. But some others state that it's natural ageing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Has the ongoing war taken a toll on the Ukrainian president?&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine accuses Russia of genocide in Bucha</strong></p>

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A photo of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky taken on February 23 this year, just a day before his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin ordered a special "military operation" in Ukraine, portrays a different story than the photo taken on April 4.

A photo of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky taken on February 23 this year, just a day before his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin ordered a special "military operation" in Ukraine, portrays a different story than the photo taken on April 4. The large scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia, deemed "unprovoked and unjustified" by the West, is no doubt an unprecedented crisis for the country. Shelling and constant bombings by Russian troops have left the eastern European nation in tatters. Millions of people have been displaced and at least $100 billion worth of infrastructure, buildings and other physical assets have been destroyed. Ukrainian authorities have claimed hundreds died and reports of loot, rape and torture by Russian troops also emerged. Although, Moscow has "categorically" denied all the allegations. ALSO READ | Zelensky says Ukraine had 'no option but to negotiate' with Russia to end war. But will Putin hold talks? Amid all the chaos, the Ukrainian President rose to the occasion and gradually become the face of Ukraine's resistance with emotional appeals and impassioned speeches. He has been urging world powers to send military assistance and humanitarian aid. He is also finding diplomatic ways to end the war without compromising Ukraine's sovereignty and peace. But recent pictures have shown how the ongoing war changed situations. On Monday (April 4), Zelensky visited the town of Bucha outside the capital Kyiv where dozens of corpses, some with their hands bound, were allegedly discovered after Russian forces withdrew. A teary-eyed Ukrainian leader told reporters, "Every day, when our fighters enter and retake territory, you see what's been happening." "These are war crimes and it will be recognised by the world as genocide. You stand here today and see what happened. We know that thousands of people have been killed and tortured with extremities cut off, women raped, children killed," he told reporters, adding that "it's genocide." ALSO READ | 'Ukrainian mums write family contacts on bodies of their babies and Europe is still discussing gas' For the unversed, the 44-year-old Zelensky rose to fame via comedy. He was the star of a popular TV show in Ukraine called "Servant of the People". In the show, he played the role of president. When Zelensky addressed the nation after Russia recognised two Ukrainian separatist regions as independent states and moved troops to the border, he wore a suit and tie and boldly mentioned Ukraine's resistance. Meanwhile, when he addressed the nation on April 4 over alleged Bucha atrocities, he was wearing a bullet-proof vest and accompanied by military personnel and talked about "genocide" and "mass killings". The world has seen and lauded Ukrainian resistance, but at what cost? This is yet to be analysed. Ever since the invasion began, the "unlikely wartime leader" swapped his tailored navy suits, white shirts and ties with a simple and basic olive green T-shirt — the kind people generally wear for workouts or mostly soldiers wear under military fatigues. Zelensky wears a simple green T-shirt in solidarity with his fellow soldiers who are either dead or risking their lives to protect and defend the country. A report by Insider stated that "Presidents often leave the office with more grey hair than they had when they entered". The stress will be double if their tenure had a war or war-like situation. But some dermatologists say Presidents experience an "expedited ageing process" due to the stress of the office. But some others state that it's natural ageing. Has the ongoing war taken a toll on the Ukrainian president? WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine accuses Russia of genocide in Bucha ×

How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky

<p>In response to mounting criticism and questions about the evacuation and future study of Indian medical students from war-torn Ukraine, Indian external affairs minister S Jaishankar said the delay was due to the Ukrainian government's ambiguous political comments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The minister stated that the Ukrainian authorities' initial message was that the developing crisis was "manageable" and that everything was under control, which made Indian students hesitant to leave the country.</p>

<p>"We kept in touch with Ukrainian authorities and even universities on a regular basis."</p>

<p>"With some of the universities, we were really frustrated," he stated.</p>

<p>EAM Jaishankar tells Parliament that Indian medical students who have been evacuated from Ukraine will be given a one-year reprieve.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In response to specific concerns highlighted by the Opposition, Jaishankar stated that India is in talks with Poland, Romania, Kazakhstan, and Hungary to complete medical education for Ukraine returnees.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday, four union ministers - Hardeep Singh Puri, Kiren Rijiju, Jyotiraditya Scindia, and Gen VK Singh - briefed the house on the evacuation of Indians under Operation Ganga. They were sent to different countries bordering Ukraine as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's special envoys during the evacuation process.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-impact-of-war-on-ukraines-comedian-president-and-an-unlikely-wartime-leader-468665">How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky</a></strong></p>

<p>In response to a discussion in the Lok Sabha on the situation between Russia and Ukraine, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that India does not believe in "finding a solution by shedding blood" and instead urges dialogue.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Indian EAM S Jaishankar addresses Bucha killings in the parliament</strong></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In response to mounting criticism and questions about the evacuation and future study of Indian medical students from war-torn Ukraine, Indian external affairs minister S Jaishankar said the delay was due to the Ukrainian government's ambiguous political comments.

In response to mounting criticism and questions about the evacuation and future study of Indian medical students from war-torn Ukraine, Indian external affairs minister S Jaishankar said the delay was due to the Ukrainian government's ambiguous political comments. The minister stated that the Ukrainian authorities' initial message was that the developing crisis was "manageable" and that everything was under control, which made Indian students hesitant to leave the country. "We kept in touch with Ukrainian authorities and even universities on a regular basis." "With some of the universities, we were really frustrated," he stated. EAM Jaishankar tells Parliament that Indian medical students who have been evacuated from Ukraine will be given a one-year reprieve. In response to specific concerns highlighted by the Opposition, Jaishankar stated that India is in talks with Poland, Romania, Kazakhstan, and Hungary to complete medical education for Ukraine returnees. On Tuesday, four union ministers - Hardeep Singh Puri, Kiren Rijiju, Jyotiraditya Scindia, and Gen VK Singh - briefed the house on the evacuation of Indians under Operation Ganga. They were sent to different countries bordering Ukraine as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's special envoys during the evacuation process. ALSO READ | How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky In response to a discussion in the Lok Sabha on the situation between Russia and Ukraine, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that India does not believe in "finding a solution by shedding blood" and instead urges dialogue. Watch | Indian EAM S Jaishankar addresses Bucha killings in the parliament (With inputs from agencies)

We were very frustrated with some of the Ukrainian universities: S Jaishankar

<p>India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday (April 6) weighed in on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, stating&nbsp;the nation has chosen a side — a side of peace. He asserted that India is strongly against the conflict, which continues to escalate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar was replying to questions over India's stand&nbsp;in the lower house of the Parliament, especially over the latest developments coming in from ground zero.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia has been accused of war crimes and genocide after mass graves were allegedly found in Bucha, a town outside Kyiv after Russian troops recently withdrew from that area.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-impact-of-war-on-ukraines-comedian-president-and-an-unlikely-wartime-leader-468665">How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky</a></strong></p>

<p>Apart from mass graves, some of the dead bodies were lying on the streets. Authorities claimed that women and young girls were raped, tortured and then killed. The bodies of some girls were even branded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In response to Bucha reports, Jaishankar condemned the alleged atrocities and supported the call for an independent investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "We're deeply disturbed by the reports. We strongly condemn the killings which have taken place there. It's an extremely serious matter and&nbsp;we support the call for an independent investigation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports have said that more than 300 people have been killed and the total number of casualties&nbsp;is likely to increase.</p>

<p>Refuting the claims of brutality, Russia said the reports of civilian killings in Bucha were "fakes" aimed at discrediting Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-mums-write-family-contacts-on-bodies-of-their-babies-and-europe-is-still-discussing-gas-468513">'Ukrainian mums write family contacts on bodies of their babies and Europe is still discussing gas'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Ukrainian President Zelensky to address UNSC, blames Russia for brutal killings in Bucha</strong></p>

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<p>"What is India advocating in Ukraine? We are, first and foremost, strongly against conflict. We believe that no solution can be arrived at by shedding blood and at the cost of innocent lives. In this day and age, dialogue and diplomacy are the right answers to any disputes," said Jaishankar.</p>

<p>He urged countries to respect the international law, sovereignty and territorial integrity of all States. "This should bear in mind that contemporary global order has been built on UN Charter, on respect for international law, and for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all States," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said. "In terms of diplomacy, India continues to press forcefully for an immediate cessation of hostilities and&nbsp;an end to violence. We encourage talks between Ukraine and&nbsp;Russia, including at the level of their Presidents. PM has spoken to them both in this regard."&nbsp;</p>


India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday (April 6) weighed in on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, stating the nation has chosen a side — a side of peace.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday (April 6) weighed in on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, stating the nation has chosen a side — a side of peace. He asserted that India is strongly against the conflict, which continues to escalate. Jaishankar was replying to questions over India's stand in the lower house of the Parliament, especially over the latest developments coming in from ground zero. Russia has been accused of war crimes and genocide after mass graves were allegedly found in Bucha, a town outside Kyiv after Russian troops recently withdrew from that area. ALSO READ | How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky Apart from mass graves, some of the dead bodies were lying on the streets. Authorities claimed that women and young girls were raped, tortured and then killed. The bodies of some girls were even branded. In response to Bucha reports, Jaishankar condemned the alleged atrocities and supported the call for an independent investigation. He said, "We're deeply disturbed by the reports. We strongly condemn the killings which have taken place there. It's an extremely serious matter and we support the call for an independent investigation." Reports have said that more than 300 people have been killed and the total number of casualties is likely to increase. Refuting the claims of brutality, Russia said the reports of civilian killings in Bucha were "fakes" aimed at discrediting Russia. ALSO READ | 'Ukrainian mums write family contacts on bodies of their babies and Europe is still discussing gas' WATCH | Ukrainian President Zelensky to address UNSC, blames Russia for brutal killings in Bucha × "What is India advocating in Ukraine? We are, first and foremost, strongly against conflict. We believe that no solution can be arrived at by shedding blood and at the cost of innocent lives. In this day and age, dialogue and diplomacy are the right answers to any disputes," said Jaishankar. He urged countries to respect the international law, sovereignty and territorial integrity of all States. "This should bear in mind that contemporary global order has been built on UN Charter, on respect for international law, and for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all States," he added. He said. "In terms of diplomacy, India continues to press forcefully for an immediate cessation of hostilities and an end to violence. We encourage talks between Ukraine and Russia, including at the level of their Presidents. PM has spoken to them both in this regard."

'We're deeply disturbed': India supports calls for independent probe in Bucha atrocities, says Jaishankar

<p>Just months ago, Germany’s plans to build a terminal for receiving shiploads of liquefied natural gas were in disarray. Would-be developers were not convinced that customers would make enough use of a facility that can cost billions of dollars. And concerns about climate change undermined the future of a fossil fuel like natural gas.</p>

<p>Perceptions have changed. After Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the Kremlin’s threats to sever fuel supplies, the government in Berlin has decided it needs these massive facilities — as many as four of them — to wean the country off Russian gas and act as a lifeline in case Moscow turns off the taps. The cost to the taxpayer now seems to be a secondary consideration.</p>

<p>Most of the gas that Europe buys from Russia to power its electrical utilities is delivered through pipelines, over land or under the sea. Liquefied natural gas provides another way to move gas great distances when pipelines are not an option. Natural gas is chilled to a liquid and loaded on special tankers. It then can be transported to any port with equipment to turn it back into a gas and pump it into the power grid.</p>

<p>“We are aiming to build LNG terminals in Germany,” Robert Habeck, the country’s economy minister, recently said before talks with potential gas suppliers.</p>

<p>Habeck is a politician from the environmentalist Greens but is finding, somewhat to his dismay, that Germany needs the fossil fuel.</p>

<p>On Saturday, Lithuania said it had stopped buying natural gas from Russia. The cutoff won’t cause much pain to the Russian budget because Lithuania is a tiny country. But, as a member of the European Union, its decision held symbolic geopolitical importance. Europe’s energy transition took on new urgency Monday in the wake of global horror at images of bodies lying in the streets in areas of Ukraine from which Russian troops have withdrawn. Leaders debated how to punish Russia without putting Europe at risk of losing critical fuel supplies too quickly.</p>

<p>Much as it is changing attitudes across Europe and in Germany, the continent’s largest economy, Russia’s invasion into Ukraine is reshaping energy markets globally. For years, Europe has imported enormous volumes of gas from Russia to heat homes and power industry, but now that practice, which depends on billions of dollars’ worth of pipelines, faces severe curtailment.</p>

<p>The EU wants to end what is now deemed an unhealthy entanglement by 2030. Within a year, it wants to slash dependence on Russia, which supplied 40% of European gas last year, by two-thirds.</p>

<p>How will these huge volumes of Russian gas be replaced? The EU is betting on liquefied natural gas.</p>

<p>Europe’s leaders want to round up 50 billion cubic meters of additional LNG cargoes over the next year, which amounts to about half of the Russian gas it wants to ditch. That’s not all Europe is doing. Officials could get more gas via a pipeline from Norway and Azerbaijan. They also want to reduce gas consumption by ramping up wind and solar power projects, and are calling on citizens to turn down thermostats. But analysts say that Europe would struggle to swiftly replace so much gas. That is one reason that Germany is preparing for rationing.</p>

<p>These higher volumes of LNG, which would most likely need to continue for years, could cost around $50 billion at current prices, but much less if bought on long-term contracts from the United States, where prices are a fraction of those in Europe and Asia.</p>

<p>Europe’s scramble raises the prospect of a global battle over supplies in a market that analysts say has little slack. Asia, not Europe, is usually the prime destination for LNG. China, Japan and South Korea were the leading buyers last year.</p>

<p>The additional gas that Europe is targeting would add around 10% to global demand, creating a tug of war with other countries for fuel. That prospect could mean that gas prices that have touched record levels in recent months will remain high, prolonging misery for consumers and squeezing industry.</p>

<p>On Friday, for instance, home energy bills for millions of British consumers rose by 54%, largely because of soaring wholesale gas costs. Futures prices don’t offer any sign of relief.</p>

<p>“Over the next three years, competition for LNG is going to be extremely fierce,” said Massimo Di Odoardo, vice president for gas at Wood Mackenzie, a market research firm. “Europe and Asia are going to be pulling the blanket” to cover their needs, he added.</p>

<p>In theory, high prices should spur investment in more gas fields. But it is far from certain how much new production today’s high prices in Europe will encourage.</p>

<p>“Clearly in the short term you can’t replace that amount of gas,” said James Henderson, chair of the gas program at the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies, a research institution.</p>

<p>But, Henderson added, Europe is also likely to spend money accelerating its shift to cleaner energy, reducing demand for fossil fuels.</p>

<p>That potential damper isn’t stopping Germany from building what would be its first liquefied natural gas terminal and a flurry of new and expansion projects elsewhere in Europe. Berlin seems to have settled on a permanent terminal for a port called Brunsbüttel near Hamburg and also has options on three floating structures, which are cheaper. One could be ready in a matter of months.</p>

<p>Even before the latest announcements, LNG volumes for Europe were outpacing Russian pipeline gas. Tankers carrying gas were attracted by the high prices in Europe, which were stoked by tensions over Ukraine; they are now about seven times what they were a year ago. Those prices are a boon to the world’s major liquefied natural gas exporters: Qatar, Australia and, above all, the United States, whose shipments of the fuel, a product of shale drilling, increased by 50% in 2021 over the year before.</p>

<p>These energy riches bring political clout. Washington has been offering LNG to help Europe break its Russian energy links, a longstanding goal of some U.S. politicians.</p>

<p>On March 25, the Biden administration and the EU agreed that the United States would “strive to ensure” that at least 15 billion cubic meters in additional LNG this year reaches Europe, an amount comparable to around 10% of the gas that Europe imports from Russia.</p>

<p>Analysts say that this commitment is achievable, but mainly because of market dynamics rather than government policies. In the first three months of 2022, at least 115 cargoes of chilled gas left the facilities of Cheniere Energy, the largest U.S. supplier of LNG, and headed to Europe, more than double the total in the same period in 2021, according to the company.</p>

<p>Di Odoardo figures that LNG flows from the United States to Europe have already reached two-thirds of the bilateral target for this year, and so reaching it should be “easy.”</p>

<p>Washington has also leaned on other countries, including Japan, to give up some of their cargoes, and this has led to a substantial drop in shipments heading to Asia from the United States, according to analysts. Over time, though, such generosity may be a harder sell, especially if the war in Ukraine continues indefinitely and markets tighten further.</p>

<p>“Under the current conditions, I don’t think that Japan has the room to commit to long-term, continuous LNG shipments,” said Michitaka Hattori, a director at the Japan Institute for Russian &amp; NIS Economic Studies.</p>

<p>The surest way to bring prices down is to add more supply. High prices will encourage marginal increases in exports, but it usually takes more than two years to build new facilities for processing gas such as the terminal that Germany wants to build. Of course, LNG demand, which grew 6% in 2021, will most likely continue to grow as China and other countries shift to gas from pollution-spewing coal.</p>

<p>“I think the winter market for gas is going to remain very tight because of Asia’s shift from coal to gas,” said Marco Alverà, CEO of Snam, a large Italian energy company.</p>

<p>Cheniere Energy is moving ahead with a large expansion of its export facility at Corpus Christi, Texas. Qatar also says it is working on adding an enormous slug of LNG in the next five years.</p>

<p>Developers, though, will be wary of whether the current boom in Europe might fade well before the expiration of the new LNG projects, which are generally expected to operate for 20 years or more. And European leaders insist they still view gas as a temporary fix before renewable energy sources like wind, solar and hydrogen take over.</p>

<p>“There is a question mark there about how much new gas will be needed,” Henderson said.</p>


Just months ago, Germany’s plans to build a terminal for receiving shiploads of liquefied natural gas were in disarray. Would-be developers were not convinced that customers would make enough use of a facility that can cost billions of dollars.

Just months ago, Germany’s plans to build a terminal for receiving shiploads of liquefied natural gas were in disarray. Would-be developers were not convinced that customers would make enough use of a facility that can cost billions of dollars. And concerns about climate change undermined the future of a fossil fuel like natural gas. Perceptions have changed. After Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the Kremlin’s threats to sever fuel supplies, the government in Berlin has decided it needs these massive facilities — as many as four of them — to wean the country off Russian gas and act as a lifeline in case Moscow turns off the taps. The cost to the taxpayer now seems to be a secondary consideration. Most of the gas that Europe buys from Russia to power its electrical utilities is delivered through pipelines, over land or under the sea. Liquefied natural gas provides another way to move gas great distances when pipelines are not an option. Natural gas is chilled to a liquid and loaded on special tankers. It then can be transported to any port with equipment to turn it back into a gas and pump it into the power grid. “We are aiming to build LNG terminals in Germany,” Robert Habeck, the country’s economy minister, recently said before talks with potential gas suppliers. Habeck is a politician from the environmentalist Greens but is finding, somewhat to his dismay, that Germany needs the fossil fuel. On Saturday, Lithuania said it had stopped buying natural gas from Russia. The cutoff won’t cause much pain to the Russian budget because Lithuania is a tiny country. But, as a member of the European Union, its decision held symbolic geopolitical importance. Europe’s energy transition took on new urgency Monday in the wake of global horror at images of bodies lying in the streets in areas of Ukraine from which Russian troops have withdrawn. Leaders debated how to punish Russia without putting Europe at risk of losing critical fuel supplies too quickly. Much as it is changing attitudes across Europe and in Germany, the continent’s largest economy, Russia’s invasion into Ukraine is reshaping energy markets globally. For years, Europe has imported enormous volumes of gas from Russia to heat homes and power industry, but now that practice, which depends on billions of dollars’ worth of pipelines, faces severe curtailment. The EU wants to end what is now deemed an unhealthy entanglement by 2030. Within a year, it wants to slash dependence on Russia, which supplied 40% of European gas last year, by two-thirds. How will these huge volumes of Russian gas be replaced? The EU is betting on liquefied natural gas. Europe’s leaders want to round up 50 billion cubic meters of additional LNG cargoes over the next year, which amounts to about half of the Russian gas it wants to ditch. That’s not all Europe is doing. Officials could get more gas via a pipeline from Norway and Azerbaijan. They also want to reduce gas consumption by ramping up wind and solar power projects, and are calling on citizens to turn down thermostats. But analysts say that Europe would struggle to swiftly replace so much gas. That is one reason that Germany is preparing for rationing. These higher volumes of LNG, which would most likely need to continue for years, could cost around $50 billion at current prices, but much less if bought on long-term contracts from the United States, where prices are a fraction of those in Europe and Asia. Europe’s scramble raises the prospect of a global battle over supplies in a market that analysts say has little slack. Asia, not Europe, is usually the prime destination for LNG. China, Japan and South Korea were the leading buyers last year. The additional gas that Europe is targeting would add around 10% to global demand, creating a tug of war with other countries for fuel. That prospect could mean that gas prices that have touched record levels in recent months will remain high, prolonging misery for consumers and squeezing industry. On Friday, for instance, home energy bills for millions of British consumers rose by 54%, largely because of soaring wholesale gas costs. Futures prices don’t offer any sign of relief. “Over the next three years, competition for LNG is going to be extremely fierce,” said Massimo Di Odoardo, vice president for gas at Wood Mackenzie, a market research firm. “Europe and Asia are going to be pulling the blanket” to cover their needs, he added. In theory, high prices should spur investment in more gas fields. But it is far from certain how much new production today’s high prices in Europe will encourage. “Clearly in the short term you can’t replace that amount of gas,” said James Henderson, chair of the gas program at the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies, a research institution. But, Henderson added, Europe is also likely to spend money accelerating its shift to cleaner energy, reducing demand for fossil fuels. That potential damper isn’t stopping Germany from building what would be its first liquefied natural gas terminal and a flurry of new and expansion projects elsewhere in Europe. Berlin seems to have settled on a permanent terminal for a port called Brunsbüttel near Hamburg and also has options on three floating structures, which are cheaper. One could be ready in a matter of months. Even before the latest announcements, LNG volumes for Europe were outpacing Russian pipeline gas. Tankers carrying gas were attracted by the high prices in Europe, which were stoked by tensions over Ukraine; they are now about seven times what they were a year ago. Those prices are a boon to the world’s major liquefied natural gas exporters: Qatar, Australia and, above all, the United States, whose shipments of the fuel, a product of shale drilling, increased by 50% in 2021 over the year before. These energy riches bring political clout. Washington has been offering LNG to help Europe break its Russian energy links, a longstanding goal of some U.S. politicians. On March 25, the Biden administration and the EU agreed that the United States would “strive to ensure” that at least 15 billion cubic meters in additional LNG this year reaches Europe, an amount comparable to around 10% of the gas that Europe imports from Russia. Analysts say that this commitment is achievable, but mainly because of market dynamics rather than government policies. In the first three months of 2022, at least 115 cargoes of chilled gas left the facilities of Cheniere Energy, the largest U.S. supplier of LNG, and headed to Europe, more than double the total in the same period in 2021, according to the company. Di Odoardo figures that LNG flows from the United States to Europe have already reached two-thirds of the bilateral target for this year, and so reaching it should be “easy.” Washington has also leaned on other countries, including Japan, to give up some of their cargoes, and this has led to a substantial drop in shipments heading to Asia from the United States, according to analysts. Over time, though, such generosity may be a harder sell, especially if the war in Ukraine continues indefinitely and markets tighten further. “Under the current conditions, I don’t think that Japan has the room to commit to long-term, continuous LNG shipments,” said Michitaka Hattori, a director at the Japan Institute for Russian & NIS Economic Studies. The surest way to bring prices down is to add more supply. High prices will encourage marginal increases in exports, but it usually takes more than two years to build new facilities for processing gas such as the terminal that Germany wants to build. Of course, LNG demand, which grew 6% in 2021, will most likely continue to grow as China and other countries shift to gas from pollution-spewing coal. “I think the winter market for gas is going to remain very tight because of Asia’s shift from coal to gas,” said Marco Alverà, CEO of Snam, a large Italian energy company. Cheniere Energy is moving ahead with a large expansion of its export facility at Corpus Christi, Texas. Qatar also says it is working on adding an enormous slug of LNG in the next five years. Developers, though, will be wary of whether the current boom in Europe might fade well before the expiration of the new LNG projects, which are generally expected to operate for 20 years or more. And European leaders insist they still view gas as a temporary fix before renewable energy sources like wind, solar and hydrogen take over. “There is a question mark there about how much new gas will be needed,” Henderson said.

How the recoil from Russian gas is scrambling world markets

<p>In an address to the Security Council on Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky railed against the UN's ineffectiveness in stopping Russia's ongoing conflict.</p>

<p>Following the finding of widespread civilian executions in the Kyiv district of Bucha, Zelensky warned the UN Security Council that the group had two options: Punish Russia or disband itself.</p>

<p>"As an aggressor and a cause of conflict," Zelensky urged the Security Council to remove Russia, which is a permanent member of the body, "so it cannot block decisions regarding its own aggression."</p>

<p>He also suggested that the UN's security council "dissolve" and reorganise completely.</p>

<p>"If there is no other option," Zelensky&nbsp;remarked, "the next option would be to disintegrate yourself completely."</p>

<p>After Russian forces retreated from the Kyiv region, hundreds of Ukrainian people were found dead in Bucha. Zelensky spoke before the council a few days later.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-ukraine-had-no-option-but-to-negotiate-with-russia-to-end-war-but-will-putin-hold-talks-468562">Zelensky says Ukraine had 'no option but to negotiate' with Russia to end war. But will Putin hold talks?</a></strong></p>

<p>According to media sources, many bodies were discovered in partially excavated mass graves, while others were discovered lying on the streets.</p>

<p>Zelensky used his Tuesday speech to push for a global security system reform.</p>

<p>Russia, which invaded Ukraine in late February, has used its veto to prevent the UN from taking measures to stop and condemn Putin's aggression.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine accuses Russia of genocide in Bucha</strong></p>

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<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In an address to the Security Council on Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky railed against the UN's ineffectiveness in stopping Russia's ongoing conflict.

In an address to the Security Council on Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky railed against the UN's ineffectiveness in stopping Russia's ongoing conflict. Following the finding of widespread civilian executions in the Kyiv district of Bucha, Zelensky warned the UN Security Council that the group had two options: Punish Russia or disband itself. "As an aggressor and a cause of conflict," Zelensky urged the Security Council to remove Russia, which is a permanent member of the body, "so it cannot block decisions regarding its own aggression." He also suggested that the UN's security council "dissolve" and reorganise completely. "If there is no other option," Zelensky remarked, "the next option would be to disintegrate yourself completely." After Russian forces retreated from the Kyiv region, hundreds of Ukrainian people were found dead in Bucha. Zelensky spoke before the council a few days later. ALSO READ | Zelensky says Ukraine had 'no option but to negotiate' with Russia to end war. But will Putin hold talks? According to media sources, many bodies were discovered in partially excavated mass graves, while others were discovered lying on the streets. Zelensky used his Tuesday speech to push for a global security system reform. Russia, which invaded Ukraine in late February, has used its veto to prevent the UN from taking measures to stop and condemn Putin's aggression. WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine accuses Russia of genocide in Bucha × (With inputs from agencies)

'Punish Russia or 'dissolve yourself altogether': Zelensky tells the UNSC

<p>The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on Tuesday said the Football Union of Russia (FUR) had withdrawn its appeal against soccer's world governing body FIFA as well as the Polish, Swedish and Czech Republic Football Associations.</p>

<p>FIFA and European governing body UEFA decided together that all Russian teams, whether national or club sides, would be suspended from participation in their competitions until further notice after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>Russia were set to host Poland in a World Cup qualifying playoff on March 24 but FIFA had said that Poland would be given a bye to the final of their path in the playoffs to play either Sweden or the Czech Republic.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-crystal-palace-denies-arsenals-return-to-top-four-with-convincing-3-0-victory-468517">Arsenal's top-four hopes suffer blow with 3-0 thrashing against Crystal Palace in Premier League</a></p>

<p>CAS said that the procedure would be terminated shortly.</p>

<p>Russia, which calls its actions in Ukraine a "special military operation", has also filed appeals seeking annulment of its bans from international gymnastics, rugby, rowing, and skating, CAS said.</p>


The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on Tuesday said the Football Union of Russia (FUR) had withdrawn its appeal against soccer's world governing body FIFA as well as the Polish, Swedish and Czech Republic Football Associations.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on Tuesday said the Football Union of Russia (FUR) had withdrawn its appeal against soccer's world governing body FIFA as well as the Polish, Swedish and Czech Republic Football Associations. FIFA and European governing body UEFA decided together that all Russian teams, whether national or club sides, would be suspended from participation in their competitions until further notice after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Russia were set to host Poland in a World Cup qualifying playoff on March 24 but FIFA had said that Poland would be given a bye to the final of their path in the playoffs to play either Sweden or the Czech Republic. ALSO READ: Arsenal's top-four hopes suffer blow with 3-0 thrashing against Crystal Palace in Premier League CAS said that the procedure would be terminated shortly. Russia, which calls its actions in Ukraine a "special military operation", has also filed appeals seeking annulment of its bans from international gymnastics, rugby, rowing, and skating, CAS said.

Football Union of Russia withdraws appeal over FIFA ban amid Ukraine crisis

<p>Taking a strict stance against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Latvia has ordered the closure of two Russian consulates in the country and told staff to leave the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by Sputnik mentioned that Latvia will also expel 13 Russian diplomats because of the "unprovoked and unjustified" military operations by Russia in Ukrainian cities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The so-called "special military operation" ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin on February 24 has left the country reeling as several towns and cities have been completely destroyed by shelling and bombing by Russian troops.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-ukraine-had-no-option-but-to-negotiate-with-russia-to-end-war-but-will-putin-hold-talks-468562">Zelensky says Ukraine had 'no option but to negotiate' with Russia to end war. But will Putin hold talks?</a></strong></p>

<p>As per data provided by the Ukrainian authorities, hundreds have been killed, thousands are injured and millions have been displaced in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia is also facing wrath as Western countries have slapped multiple economic sanctions to cripple and isolate the nation.</p>

<p>The country has also been accused of committing war crimes in Ukraine after mass graves and evidence of rape and torture were claimed to be found in the town of Bucha, which is west of the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fresh calls have been made to issue more sanctions against Russia after reports of Bucha atrocities emerged.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-mums-write-family-contacts-on-bodies-of-their-babies-and-europe-is-still-discussing-gas-468513">'Ukrainian mums write family contacts on bodies of their babies and Europe is still discussing gas'</a></strong></p>

<p>As quoted by news agencies, Latvia's&nbsp;ministry said in a statement: "The decision was taken in solidarity with Ukraine in its fight against the unprovoked and unjustified military aggression and war started by Russia."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Quoting the ministry statement, news agencies also mentioned that in Latvia, the consulates in the towns of Daugavpils and Liepaja will have to close and the staff members will have to leave by the end of April.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As reported by Sputnik, Estonia is expelling 14 Russian diplomats, closing the consulate in Narva and the office of the embassy in Tartu. Meanwhile, Spain expelled 'around' 25 Russian diplomats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In response, Kremlin has said that Europe's expulsion of diplomats is a "short-sighted move".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Spain seizes Russian oligarch Viktor Vekselberg's superyacht for US</strong></p>

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Taking a strict stance against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Latvia has ordered the closure of two Russian consulates in the country and told staff to leave the country.

Taking a strict stance against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Latvia has ordered the closure of two Russian consulates in the country and told staff to leave the country. A report by Sputnik mentioned that Latvia will also expel 13 Russian diplomats because of the "unprovoked and unjustified" military operations by Russia in Ukrainian cities. The so-called "special military operation" ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin on February 24 has left the country reeling as several towns and cities have been completely destroyed by shelling and bombing by Russian troops. ALSO READ | Zelensky says Ukraine had 'no option but to negotiate' with Russia to end war. But will Putin hold talks? As per data provided by the Ukrainian authorities, hundreds have been killed, thousands are injured and millions have been displaced in Ukraine. Russia is also facing wrath as Western countries have slapped multiple economic sanctions to cripple and isolate the nation. The country has also been accused of committing war crimes in Ukraine after mass graves and evidence of rape and torture were claimed to be found in the town of Bucha, which is west of the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. Fresh calls have been made to issue more sanctions against Russia after reports of Bucha atrocities emerged. ALSO READ | 'Ukrainian mums write family contacts on bodies of their babies and Europe is still discussing gas' As quoted by news agencies, Latvia's ministry said in a statement: "The decision was taken in solidarity with Ukraine in its fight against the unprovoked and unjustified military aggression and war started by Russia." Quoting the ministry statement, news agencies also mentioned that in Latvia, the consulates in the towns of Daugavpils and Liepaja will have to close and the staff members will have to leave by the end of April. As reported by Sputnik, Estonia is expelling 14 Russian diplomats, closing the consulate in Narva and the office of the embassy in Tartu. Meanwhile, Spain expelled 'around' 25 Russian diplomats. In response, Kremlin has said that Europe's expulsion of diplomats is a "short-sighted move". WATCH | Spain seizes Russian oligarch Viktor Vekselberg's superyacht for US ×

Latvia closes two Russian consulates, expels staff in a move against 'unjustified' war in Ukraine