One year of Russia-Ukraine war: Here's how the global community marked the anniversary

As per reports, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky plans to attend an upcoming NATO summit in person. In July 2023, Vilnius, Lithuania will host a two-day NATO summit, which the Ukrainian President plans to attend in the flesh. The news was shared with newswire BNS by Petro Beshta, Ukraine's ambassador to Lithuania. This potential visit would be Zelensky's third trip out of Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian invasion; he previously visited Washington in December 2022, and in February of this year, he visited London, Paris and Brussels. &nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Biden’s five hours in Kyiv could spell disaster for Ukraine | WION Game Plan

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The Vilnius summit is slated to be held mid-July, on the 11th and 12th. As per a Reuters report citing Lithuania's presidential office, it will be attended by most leaders of the Atlantic alliance. This means that US President Joe Biden will also be in attendance at the NATO summit.

Biden on Tuesday (February 21st) also made a surprise visit to Ukraine's capital, Kyiv. His surprise visit was hailed as "historic". Following it, Russian President Vladimir Putin in a speech announced that Moscow will be abandoning the last major arms control treaty with Washington.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-anniversary-how-russia-is-trying-to-drive-support-for-the-invasion-564560">Ukraine war anniversary: How Russia is trying to drive support for the invasion</a>

As per ambassador&nbsp;Beshta, Ukraine hopes that the attendees at the summit would agree "very clearly that as soon as the war is over, Ukraine becomes a member of NATO".&nbsp;"This is our plan," he said, during the interview with BNS.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As per reports, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky plans to attend an upcoming NATO summit in person. In July 2023, Vilnius, Lithuania will host a two-day NATO summit, which the Ukrainian President plans to attend in the flesh.

As per reports, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky plans to attend an upcoming NATO summit in person. In July 2023, Vilnius, Lithuania will host a two-day NATO summit, which the Ukrainian President plans to attend in the flesh. The news was shared with newswire BNS by Petro Beshta, Ukraine's ambassador to Lithuania. This potential visit would be Zelensky's third trip out of Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian invasion; he previously visited Washington in December 2022, and in February of this year, he visited London, Paris and Brussels. Watch | Biden’s five hours in Kyiv could spell disaster for Ukraine | WION Game Plan The Vilnius summit is slated to be held mid-July, on the 11th and 12th. As per a Reuters report citing Lithuania's presidential office, it will be attended by most leaders of the Atlantic alliance. This means that US President Joe Biden will also be in attendance at the NATO summit. Biden on Tuesday (February 21st) also made a surprise visit to Ukraine's capital, Kyiv. His surprise visit was hailed as "historic". Following it, Russian President Vladimir Putin in a speech announced that Moscow will be abandoning the last major arms control treaty with Washington. Also read | Ukraine war anniversary: How Russia is trying to drive support for the invasion As per ambassador Beshta, Ukraine hopes that the attendees at the summit would agree "very clearly that as soon as the war is over, Ukraine becomes a member of NATO". "This is our plan," he said, during the interview with BNS. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky plans to attend upcoming NATO meet in person

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; 
 
Ahead of the one-year anniversary of what Moscow refers to as its “special military operation” in Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered his annual address to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-to-address-russian-duma-world-news-wion-564164">joint houses of parliament</a> and called it a “watershed moment” for the country. During the speech on Tuesday (February 21), he also said that Moscow is suspending participation in the New START treaty, a bilateral agreement on nuclear arms control with the United States. However, the foreign ministry later said that it will comply with certain portions of the treaty.

A “difficult, watershed moment”&nbsp;

The nearly two-hour speech began with the Russian president saying, “I am making this address at a time which we all know is a difficult, watershed moment for our country, a time of cardinal, irreversible changes around the world, the most important historic events that shape the future of our country and our people, when each of us bears a colossal responsibility,” as per Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-speech-live-updates-all-eyes-on-russian-president-564206">As it happened | Vladimir Putin speech: Russia suspending participation in New START nuclear treaty</a>

Referring to the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and the eastern Donbas region, Putin said that since 2014 the people of Donbas “had been fighting, defending their right to live on their own land, to speak their native language”. Reports suggest that Moscow has intensified attacks on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-capture-of-village-near-eastern-ukrainian-region-kharkiv-563430">eastern front</a> in Ukraine and controls parts of the aforementioned region.&nbsp;

Speaking about the eastern Ukrainian region, the Russian president also said how the residents of Donbas have not given up “in the conditions of blockade and constant shelling, undisguised hatred on the part of the Kyiv regime. They believed and expected that Russia would come to their rescue.” Meanwhile, it has also been reported that despite Russian troops witnessing at least three significant battlefield reversals, Moscow continues to control approximately one-fifth of Ukraine.

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Putin’s statement also comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in an address on Sunday claimed that Kyiv’s troops are inflicting “extraordinarily significant” losses on the Russian forces in several towns in Donbas, where the fight is said to be focused on, in&nbsp;the past couple of months. “The more losses Russia suffers there, in Donbas - in Bakhmut, Vuhledar, Marinka, Kreminna - the faster we will be able to end this war with Ukraine's victory”, said Zelensky.&nbsp;

“They started the war”: Putin accuses the West for the conflict with Ukraine

The ongoing conflict has also been called the biggest confrontation between Russia and the West in decades. “I have already said many times that the people of Ukraine have become the hostage of the Kyiv regime and its Western overlords, who have effectively occupied this country in the political, military and economic sense”, said Putin, in his state-of-the-nation address on Tuesday.&nbsp;

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He added that the West has “not achieved its goals anywhere and it will not”. The Russian president also accused the West and the “current regime in Kyiv” of not only escalating the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-major-battles-of-the-russia-ukraine-war-564401">ongoing conflict</a> but also starting it as well as “increasing (the) number of victims”. According to the United Nations Office for Human Rights (OHCHR), over 8,000 civilians have been killed since the beginning of the conflict while over 13,000 have been wounded.&nbsp;

Additionally, nearly 18 million are in “dire” need of humanitarian assistance and 14 million are said to have been displaced in Ukraine, as per the UN report. However, the data has been called “only the tip of the iceberg” by the UN human rights chief, Volker Turk. He added, “The toll on civilians is unbearable. Amid electricity and water shortages during the cold winter months”.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-putin-not-a-war-with-people-of-ukraine-564438">Russia-Ukraine war | Putin: Not a war with people of Ukraine</a>

Addressing Russia’s lawmakers and military elite, Putin went on to allege that the West was threatening Moscow’s very existence with the Ukraine conflict. “The Western elites do not conceal their goals…It is a direct quote – to bring Russia a strategic defeat. What does it mean? What is it for us? It means to end us, once and for all. It means they plan to turn a local conflict into a global confrontation. We understand it exactly like that. And we will react to it accordingly,” said Putin, as per Reuters.

Russian economy

The Russian president also spoke about how the West has not succeeded in defeating the country’s economy since “those who initiated the sanctions (against Russia) have punished themselves, caused price increases, job losses, business closures and an energy crisis in their countries.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-announces-suspension-of-nuke-arms-control-treaty-with-us-564382">Russian President Vladimir Putin announces suspension of nuke arms control treaty with US</a>

&nbsp;He added, “And they tell their own citizens, and we hear that: that the Russians are to blame for everything. Which means did they use against us in this aggression of sanctions?” As per a report by Statista published on Tuesday, territories and organisations across the world have imposed 10,608 restrictions on Russian individuals, 3,431 list-based sanctions, and 492 sanctions against institutions. The data was calculated starting from February 22, 2022, which is two days prior to the beginning of the invasion to February 10, 2023.&nbsp;

During his address, the Russian president also went on to say that the “anti-Russian sanctions are only a tool, but the goal - as they themselves declare…is to make our citizens suffer.” In 2022, the Russian economy contracted by 2.1 per cent, reported the government-run statistics agency Rosstat, on Monday (February 20). While many have questioned the authenticity of the figures which were published a day before Putin was due to deliver the state-of-the-nation address, Moscow's economy was also called resilient in the face of Western sanctions and prior estimates which projected bigger contractions.&nbsp;

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Putin announced suspension of New START treaty

During his speech, on Tuesday, the Russian president announced the suspension of the New START treaty with the US which limits the number of strategic nuclear warheads that Washington and Moscow can deploy. The treaty in question also caps the delivery of the deployment of land and submarine-based missiles and bombers by the two countries.&nbsp;

“In the beginning of February this year there was a statement from the North Atlantic alliance demanding that Russia ‘returns to the Strategic Arms Treaty’ as they call it, including allowing inspections of our nuclear defence facilities. I don’t even know what to call it (the request for inspections). It’s a theatre of the absurd,” said Putin, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

However, hours later, Moscow on Tuesday clarified that it will continue observing restrictions on nuclear warheads under the New START treaty. "Russia intends to adhere to a responsible approach and will continue to strictly comply with the quantitative restrictions on strategic offensive arms stipulated by it (New START) within the life cycle of the treaty," Russia's foreign ministry said in a statement.

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Putin said, their repeated requests to inspect some US objects have been declined on “formal grounds. We can't properly inspect anything on that side,” he added. Furthermore, the Russian president also acknowledged that Russia-US relations have “deteriorated” and that Washington is fully responsible for this.&nbsp;

He also accused the West of wanting to “inflict a strategic defeat on us and sneak into our nuclear facilities.” “In this regard, I am forced to announce today that Russia is suspending its participation in the strategic offensive arms treaty,” said Putin towards the end of his speech to the lawmakers present at the joint session of the parliament.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-president-putin-blames-the-west-for-escalation-in-ukraine-564424">Russian president Putin blames the West for escalation in Ukraine</a>

Furthermore, he said that in the current situation, Russia’s ministry of defence and&nbsp;State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom (ROSATOM) should make sure that Moscow is “ready to test its nuclear weapons”. However, he said that they will not do it first but if the US conducts its test then Moscow will too, adding that “no one should be under dangerous illusions that global strategic parity can be destroyed.”

On the other hand, the US has previously accused Russia of violating the treaty by not allowing inspections on its territory. This has sparked fears of a nuclear conflict as Moscow has supposedly made veiled threats since the beginning of the conflict. Notably, the two nuclear-armed nations account for about 90 per cent of the world’s nuclear heads, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

What is the New START treaty?

As mentioned earlier, the treaty limits Russia and the US’ nuclear arsenal while&nbsp;the countries have also committed to deploying no more than 1,550 strategic nuclear warheads and a maximum of 700 long-range missiles and bombers. Additionally, every year, each side is allowed to conduct up to 18 inspections of strategic nuclear weapons sites, in order to ensure that the other side has not breached the terms of the treaty.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-to-halt-participation-in-new-start-nuclear-arms-treaty-564435">Russia to halt participation in New Start nuclear arms treaty</a>

The treaty was signed in 2010 by former US President Barack Obama and his Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev and came into effect a year later. In 2021, it was extended for five more years when incumbent President Joe Biden took office. Notably, the aforementioned inspections had been halted in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and while the talks of resuming them were to take place in Egypt last year Moscow postponed them. Since then neither side has decided on a new date.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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. Ahead of the one-year anniversary of what Moscow refers to as its “special military operation” in Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered his annual address to the joint houses of parliament and called it a “watershed moment” for the country. During the speech on Tuesday (February 21), he also said that Moscow is suspending participation in the New START treaty, a bilateral agreement on nuclear arms control with the United States. However, the foreign ministry later said that it will comply with certain portions of the treaty. A “difficult, watershed moment” The nearly two-hour speech began with the Russian president saying, “I am making this address at a time which we all know is a difficult, watershed moment for our country, a time of cardinal, irreversible changes around the world, the most important historic events that shape the future of our country and our people, when each of us bears a colossal responsibility,” as per Reuters. ALSO READ | As it happened | Vladimir Putin speech: Russia suspending participation in New START nuclear treaty Referring to the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and the eastern Donbas region, Putin said that since 2014 the people of Donbas “had been fighting, defending their right to live on their own land, to speak their native language”. Reports suggest that Moscow has intensified attacks on the eastern front in Ukraine and controls parts of the aforementioned region. Speaking about the eastern Ukrainian region, the Russian president also said how the residents of Donbas have not given up “in the conditions of blockade and constant shelling, undisguised hatred on the part of the Kyiv regime. They believed and expected that Russia would come to their rescue.” Meanwhile, it has also been reported that despite Russian troops witnessing at least three significant battlefield reversals, Moscow continues to control approximately one-fifth of Ukraine. ALSO WATCH | Russia's Putin blames West and Ukraine for provoking conflict Putin’s statement also comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in an address on Sunday claimed that Kyiv’s troops are inflicting “extraordinarily significant” losses on the Russian forces in several towns in Donbas, where the fight is said to be focused on, in the past couple of months. “The more losses Russia suffers there, in Donbas - in Bakhmut, Vuhledar, Marinka, Kreminna - the faster we will be able to end this war with Ukraine's victory”, said Zelensky. “They started the war”: Putin accuses the West for the conflict with Ukraine The ongoing conflict has also been called the biggest confrontation between Russia and the West in decades. “I have already said many times that the people of Ukraine have become the hostage of the Kyiv regime and its Western overlords, who have effectively occupied this country in the political, military and economic sense”, said Putin, in his state-of-the-nation address on Tuesday. ALSO READ | West 'completely' responsible for fueling the Ukraine conflict, says Putin He added that the West has “not achieved its goals anywhere and it will not”. The Russian president also accused the West and the “current regime in Kyiv” of not only escalating the ongoing conflict but also starting it as well as “increasing (the) number of victims”. According to the United Nations Office for Human Rights (OHCHR), over 8,000 civilians have been killed since the beginning of the conflict while over 13,000 have been wounded. Additionally, nearly 18 million are in “dire” need of humanitarian assistance and 14 million are said to have been displaced in Ukraine, as per the UN report. However, the data has been called “only the tip of the iceberg” by the UN human rights chief, Volker Turk. He added, “The toll on civilians is unbearable. Amid electricity and water shortages during the cold winter months”. ALSO WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war | Putin: Not a war with people of Ukraine Addressing Russia’s lawmakers and military elite, Putin went on to allege that the West was threatening Moscow’s very existence with the Ukraine conflict. “The Western elites do not conceal their goals…It is a direct quote – to bring Russia a strategic defeat. What does it mean? What is it for us? It means to end us, once and for all. It means they plan to turn a local conflict into a global confrontation. We understand it exactly like that. And we will react to it accordingly,” said Putin, as per Reuters. Russian economy The Russian president also spoke about how the West has not succeeded in defeating the country’s economy since “those who initiated the sanctions (against Russia) have punished themselves, caused price increases, job losses, business closures and an energy crisis in their countries.” ALSO READ | Russian President Vladimir Putin announces suspension of nuke arms control treaty with US He added, “And they tell their own citizens, and we hear that: that the Russians are to blame for everything. Which means did they use against us in this aggression of sanctions?” As per a report by Statista published on Tuesday, territories and organisations across the world have imposed 10,608 restrictions on Russian individuals, 3,431 list-based sanctions, and 492 sanctions against institutions. The data was calculated starting from February 22, 2022, which is two days prior to the beginning of the invasion to February 10, 2023. During his address, the Russian president also went on to say that the “anti-Russian sanctions are only a tool, but the goal - as they themselves declare…is to make our citizens suffer.” In 2022, the Russian economy contracted by 2.1 per cent, reported the government-run statistics agency Rosstat, on Monday (February 20). While many have questioned the authenticity of the figures which were published a day before Putin was due to deliver the state-of-the-nation address, Moscow's economy was also called resilient in the face of Western sanctions and prior estimates which projected bigger contractions. ALSO READ | Italian PM Giorgia Meloni arrives in Kyiv by train from Poland Putin announced suspension of New START treaty During his speech, on Tuesday, the Russian president announced the suspension of the New START treaty with the US which limits the number of strategic nuclear warheads that Washington and Moscow can deploy. The treaty in question also caps the delivery of the deployment of land and submarine-based missiles and bombers by the two countries. “In the beginning of February this year there was a statement from the North Atlantic alliance demanding that Russia ‘returns to the Strategic Arms Treaty’ as they call it, including allowing inspections of our nuclear defence facilities. I don’t even know what to call it (the request for inspections). It’s a theatre of the absurd,” said Putin, as per Reuters. However, hours later, Moscow on Tuesday clarified that it will continue observing restrictions on nuclear warheads under the New START treaty. "Russia intends to adhere to a responsible approach and will continue to strictly comply with the quantitative restrictions on strategic offensive arms stipulated by it (New START) within the life cycle of the treaty," Russia's foreign ministry said in a statement. ALSO READ | China's top diplomat to visit Russia amid Beijing's call to end Ukraine war Putin said, their repeated requests to inspect some US objects have been declined on “formal grounds. We can't properly inspect anything on that side,” he added. Furthermore, the Russian president also acknowledged that Russia-US relations have “deteriorated” and that Washington is fully responsible for this. He also accused the West of wanting to “inflict a strategic defeat on us and sneak into our nuclear facilities.” “In this regard, I am forced to announce today that Russia is suspending its participation in the strategic offensive arms treaty,” said Putin towards the end of his speech to the lawmakers present at the joint session of the parliament. ALSO WATCH | Russian president Putin blames the West for escalation in Ukraine Furthermore, he said that in the current situation, Russia’s ministry of defence and State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom (ROSATOM) should make sure that Moscow is “ready to test its nuclear weapons”. However, he said that they will not do it first but if the US conducts its test then Moscow will too, adding that “no one should be under dangerous illusions that global strategic parity can be destroyed.” On the other hand, the US has previously accused Russia of violating the treaty by not allowing inspections on its territory. This has sparked fears of a nuclear conflict as Moscow has supposedly made veiled threats since the beginning of the conflict. Notably, the two nuclear-armed nations account for about 90 per cent of the world’s nuclear heads, as per Reuters. What is the New START treaty? As mentioned earlier, the treaty limits Russia and the US’ nuclear arsenal while the countries have also committed to deploying no more than 1,550 strategic nuclear warheads and a maximum of 700 long-range missiles and bombers. Additionally, every year, each side is allowed to conduct up to 18 inspections of strategic nuclear weapons sites, in order to ensure that the other side has not breached the terms of the treaty. ALSO WATCH | Russia to halt participation in New Start nuclear arms treaty The treaty was signed in 2010 by former US President Barack Obama and his Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev and came into effect a year later. In 2021, it was extended for five more years when incumbent President Joe Biden took office. Notably, the aforementioned inspections had been halted in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and while the talks of resuming them were to take place in Egypt last year Moscow postponed them. Since then neither side has decided on a new date. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Putin accuses West of stoking Ukraine war

One year on, the key battles of the Russia-Ukraine war

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.

The Russian military, in a statement on Saturday (February 18) claimed to have taken control of a village in the eastern Ukrainian region of Kharkiv and said that it has been "completely liberated". This comes amid Moscow's ongoing invasion of Kyiv which began nearly a year ago. The small village in question is Hrianykivka near the key city of Kupiansk, in eastern Ukraine. &nbsp;

“The settlement of Gryanykivka, Kharkov region, was completely liberated”, said the Russian defence ministry, in a statement, referring to the Ukrainian village of Gryanykivka by its Russian name, as per AFP. Prior to the Russian invasion, the village was home to 600 people. Notably, the city near which the village of Gryanykivka has been on the frontlines in eastern Ukraine locals fear it can be taken over again as Russia has continued to attack several cities including Kupiansk and Bakhmut, said the Ukraine army, on Saturday.&nbsp;

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They added that Russian troops were “conducting offensive actions” in the two aforementioned cities and that Ukraine’s east is witnessing the longest and bloodiest battle of the conflict so far, as per media reports. Additionally, the Russian military spokesperson, Igor Konashenkov also claimed that Moscow’s army has “inflicted combat defeat” on Ukrainian troops near the eastern town of Vuhledar, reported AFP.&nbsp;

Notably, this was following a statement by the governor of the Luhansk province, in Ukraine’s east, who told local media that there has been an uptick in ground and air attacks from Russian forces. “Today it is rather difficult on all directions. There are constant attempts to break through our defence lines,” said the governor of Luhansk to local media, addressing the fighting near the city of Kreminna.&nbsp;

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Blasts hit western Ukraine&nbsp;

Meanwhile, officials in the western Ukrainian city of Khmelnytskyi, said that recent blasts have injured two civilians and shattered hundreds of windows after Moscow fired missiles from the Black Sea on Saturday. The mayor of the aforementioned Ukrainian city, Oleksandr Symchyshyn, in an interview with the national tv, said, “There are three damaged educational institutions, around ten damaged high-rise apartment blocks. Around five hundred windows and balconies have been destroyed”, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

Kyiv’s air force claimed that Russia launched four Kalibr missiles from the Black Sea out of which two were shot down by their defences while two explosions were heard in Khmelnytskyi which is over 250 km west&nbsp;of the Ukrainian&nbsp;capital. Air raid alerts were issued across Ukraine on Saturday morning while the authorities in eastern and southern regions were warned of potential precautionary power outages to limit the damage to energy grids in case of strikes.&nbsp;

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This follows reports of Moscow repeatedly targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure which has left millions without power, heating or water during the cold winter. However, these attacks have not been confirmed by the Russian authorities.&nbsp;

What is happening at the Munich Security Conference?

Amid the ongoing Munich Security Conference Ukraine’s western allies reaffirmed their support for the conflict-hit nation, on Saturday. Countries like the United States which has accused Russia of committing “crimes against humanity” in Ukraine and that it will support Kyiv “as long as it takes,” said Vice President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/munich-security-conference-kamala-harris-vows-support-to-ukraine-for-as-long-as-it-takes-563436">Kamala Harris</a>. Subsequently, United Kingdom Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/munich-conference-rishi-sunak-says-uk-to-provide-ukraine-with-long-range-weapons-calls-for-new-nato-charter-563450">Rishi Sunak</a> said that the country will always be on the side of “freedom, democracy and the rule of law,” while assuring Ukraine of its support. “Security of the European continent will always be our priority,” said Sunak.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-vice-president-kamala-harris-addresses-munich-security-conference-563439">US Vice President Kamala Harris addresses Munich Security Conference</a>

This also comes a day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky who addressed the security conference via a video link said that it is “obvious” that Kyiv would not be the last stop for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion. He added, “He’s going to continue his movement all the way...including all the other states that at some point in time were part of the Soviet bloc”. He also urged the West to maintain the speedy supply of weapons and said “delay has always been and still is a mistake”.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, on the same day, Russia accused the US of inciting Ukraine to escalate the war. “Now the American warmongers have gone even further: They incite the Kyiv regime to further escalate the war”, said Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian foreign ministry, addressing the reporters at the security conference on Friday. She added that some US officials dreamed like “crazies” of defeating Moscow, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. The Russian military, in a statement on Saturday (February 18) claimed to have taken control of a village in the eastern Ukrainian region of Kharkiv and said that it has been "completely liberated". This comes amid Moscow's ongoing invasion of Kyiv which began nearly a year ago. The small village in question is Hrianykivka near the key city of Kupiansk, in eastern Ukraine. “The settlement of Gryanykivka, Kharkov region, was completely liberated”, said the Russian defence ministry, in a statement, referring to the Ukrainian village of Gryanykivka by its Russian name, as per AFP. Prior to the Russian invasion, the village was home to 600 people. Notably, the city near which the village of Gryanykivka has been on the frontlines in eastern Ukraine locals fear it can be taken over again as Russia has continued to attack several cities including Kupiansk and Bakhmut, said the Ukraine army, on Saturday. ALSO READ | Russia expected to send spaceship to ISS in rescue mission to bring back three astronauts They added that Russian troops were “conducting offensive actions” in the two aforementioned cities and that Ukraine’s east is witnessing the longest and bloodiest battle of the conflict so far, as per media reports. Additionally, the Russian military spokesperson, Igor Konashenkov also claimed that Moscow’s army has “inflicted combat defeat” on Ukrainian troops near the eastern town of Vuhledar, reported AFP. Notably, this was following a statement by the governor of the Luhansk province, in Ukraine’s east, who told local media that there has been an uptick in ground and air attacks from Russian forces. “Today it is rather difficult on all directions. There are constant attempts to break through our defence lines,” said the governor of Luhansk to local media, addressing the fighting near the city of Kreminna. ALSO READ | LIVE Munich Security Conference: Harris says Russia committed 'crimes against humanity' in Ukraine Blasts hit western Ukraine Meanwhile, officials in the western Ukrainian city of Khmelnytskyi, said that recent blasts have injured two civilians and shattered hundreds of windows after Moscow fired missiles from the Black Sea on Saturday. The mayor of the aforementioned Ukrainian city, Oleksandr Symchyshyn, in an interview with the national tv, said, “There are three damaged educational institutions, around ten damaged high-rise apartment blocks. Around five hundred windows and balconies have been destroyed”, as per Reuters. Kyiv’s air force claimed that Russia launched four Kalibr missiles from the Black Sea out of which two were shot down by their defences while two explosions were heard in Khmelnytskyi which is over 250 km west of the Ukrainian capital. Air raid alerts were issued across Ukraine on Saturday morning while the authorities in eastern and southern regions were warned of potential precautionary power outages to limit the damage to energy grids in case of strikes. ALSO READ | More than 30,000 Wagner fighters died or suffered injuries in Ukraine war, claims US This follows reports of Moscow repeatedly targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure which has left millions without power, heating or water during the cold winter. However, these attacks have not been confirmed by the Russian authorities. What is happening at the Munich Security Conference? Amid the ongoing Munich Security Conference Ukraine’s western allies reaffirmed their support for the conflict-hit nation, on Saturday. Countries like the United States which has accused Russia of committing “crimes against humanity” in Ukraine and that it will support Kyiv “as long as it takes,” said Vice President Kamala Harris. Subsequently, United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said that the country will always be on the side of “freedom, democracy and the rule of law,” while assuring Ukraine of its support. “Security of the European continent will always be our priority,” said Sunak. ALSO WATCH | US Vice President Kamala Harris addresses Munich Security Conference This also comes a day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky who addressed the security conference via a video link said that it is “obvious” that Kyiv would not be the last stop for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion. He added, “He’s going to continue his movement all the way...including all the other states that at some point in time were part of the Soviet bloc”. He also urged the West to maintain the speedy supply of weapons and said “delay has always been and still is a mistake”. Meanwhile, on the same day, Russia accused the US of inciting Ukraine to escalate the war. “Now the American warmongers have gone even further: They incite the Kyiv regime to further escalate the war”, said Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian foreign ministry, addressing the reporters at the security conference on Friday. She added that some US officials dreamed like “crazies” of defeating Moscow, reported Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia claims capture of village in eastern Ukrainian region Kharkiv; 2 civilians injured in city near Kyiv

A report by Reuters, citing an anonymous political source, said that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will travel to Kyiv for a visit and meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Monday (February 20). It is reported that the source made this claim on Sunday. The Italian PM’s visit comes amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and days before the conflict will mark its first anniversary.&nbsp;

Meloni, who took office in October, last year has been a firm supporter of Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict despite disputes over the issue within her right-wing ruling coalition and divided public opinion. Earlier this month, Italy and France said that they have finalised technical talks for the joint delivery of a SAMP/T-MAMBA air defence system to Kyiv in the spring of this year. The European-made defence system is said to be the only one that can intercept ballistic missiles. Additionally, it can also track dozens of targets and intercept 10 at the same time.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-pushes-us-lawmakers-for-f-16-fighter-jets-france-to-send-light-tanks-to-kyiv-end-of-next-week-563674">Ukraine pushes US lawmakers for F-16s; France to send ‘light tanks’ to Kyiv by ‘end of next week’</a>

On Friday, European People’s Party (EPP) cancelled a planned event in Naples after former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi criticised Ukraine. Notably, Berlusconi’s party Forza Italia, which he leads, is a member of EPP as well as Meloni’s ruling coalition. The comments in question include the former Italian PM saying that he would not meet Zelensky if he were still in power as he blames the Ukrainian President for the ongoing conflict with Russia.&nbsp;

He also said, “So I judge, very, very negatively, the behaviour of this gentleman” referring to Zelensky. Days after which EPP President Manfred Weber, in a tweet said, “Following the remarks by Silvio Berlusconi on Ukraine we decided to cancel our study days in Naples. Support for Ukraine is not optional”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-italy-pm-meloni-criticises-french-president-macrons-invite-to-zelensky-560335">Ukraine war: Italy PM Meloni criticises French President Macron's invite to Zelensky</a>

Subsequently, the former Italian PM in a post on Facebook wrote, “With the world on the brink of a nuclear war between Russia and NATO countries, I get criticised because I ask that, together with the support for Ukraine...negotiations should be immediately launched to achieve peace”.&nbsp;

He added that this should “immediately be put on the agenda of the EPP's next meetings.” The event in question included EPP’s European parliamentary lawmakers who were due to convene in Naples in June for a discussion of strategy. The decision also sparked criticism from Forza Italia’s leadership.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-reminds-france-of-napoleon-slams-emmanuel-macron-for-regime-change-remark-563666">Russia slams Emmanuel Macron for his remarks, says Moscow remembers Napoleon’s fate</a>

Meanwhile, the Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and one of the founders of Berlusconi’s party, on Saturday, met with Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference and reaffirmed Italy’s support amid the ongoing conflict.&nbsp; 
 
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A report by Reuters, citing an anonymous political source, said that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will travel to Kyiv for a visit and meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Monday (February 20).

A report by Reuters, citing an anonymous political source, said that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will travel to Kyiv for a visit and meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Monday (February 20). It is reported that the source made this claim on Sunday. The Italian PM’s visit comes amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and days before the conflict will mark its first anniversary. Meloni, who took office in October, last year has been a firm supporter of Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict despite disputes over the issue within her right-wing ruling coalition and divided public opinion. Earlier this month, Italy and France said that they have finalised technical talks for the joint delivery of a SAMP/T-MAMBA air defence system to Kyiv in the spring of this year. The European-made defence system is said to be the only one that can intercept ballistic missiles. Additionally, it can also track dozens of targets and intercept 10 at the same time. ALSO READ | Ukraine pushes US lawmakers for F-16s; France to send ‘light tanks’ to Kyiv by ‘end of next week’ On Friday, European People’s Party (EPP) cancelled a planned event in Naples after former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi criticised Ukraine. Notably, Berlusconi’s party Forza Italia, which he leads, is a member of EPP as well as Meloni’s ruling coalition. The comments in question include the former Italian PM saying that he would not meet Zelensky if he were still in power as he blames the Ukrainian President for the ongoing conflict with Russia. He also said, “So I judge, very, very negatively, the behaviour of this gentleman” referring to Zelensky. Days after which EPP President Manfred Weber, in a tweet said, “Following the remarks by Silvio Berlusconi on Ukraine we decided to cancel our study days in Naples. Support for Ukraine is not optional”. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: Italy PM Meloni criticises French President Macron's invite to Zelensky Subsequently, the former Italian PM in a post on Facebook wrote, “With the world on the brink of a nuclear war between Russia and NATO countries, I get criticised because I ask that, together with the support for Ukraine...negotiations should be immediately launched to achieve peace”. He added that this should “immediately be put on the agenda of the EPP's next meetings.” The event in question included EPP’s European parliamentary lawmakers who were due to convene in Naples in June for a discussion of strategy. The decision also sparked criticism from Forza Italia’s leadership. ALSO READ | Russia slams Emmanuel Macron for his remarks, says Moscow remembers Napoleon’s fate Meanwhile, the Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and one of the founders of Berlusconi’s party, on Saturday, met with Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference and reaffirmed Italy’s support amid the ongoing conflict. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Italian PM Meloni to visit Ukrainian President Zelensky in Kyiv on Monday: Report

A report by Reuters citing United States lawmakers said that Ukrainian officials have urged them on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference (MSC), late Saturday to press President Joe Biden’s administration for sending F-16 fighter jets to Kyiv. This comes weeks after Ukraine’s allies in the West,&nbsp;after months of discussion, approved sending tanks to Kyiv amid its conflict with Russia. Meanwhile, France, on Sunday (February 19) said that it will begin delivering the armoured vehicles promised to Ukraine by next weekend.&nbsp;

US lawmakers back Kyiv on the sidelines&nbsp;of Munich Security Conference

In what members called the largest number of US lawmakers sent to attend the security conference since it began in 1953, Washington has demonstrated clear bipartisan support for Ukraine. Notably, there are four delegations from the House of Representatives and the Senate combined at this year’s MSC from Washington which includes both Democrats and Republicans.&nbsp;

Speaking to Reuters, Senator Mark Kelly said, “They (Ukrainian officials) told us that they want (F-16s) to suppress enemy air defenses so they could get their drones”. Additionally, representatives from Kyiv also said that these aircraft would boost their ability to hit Russian missile units. This comes a month after the US president said “no” to sending fighter jets to Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-munich-security-conference-blinken-and-wang-hold-candid-talks-amid-balloon-spat-563646">LIVE Munich Security Conference: Blinken and Wang hold 'candid talks' amid balloon spat</a>

In addition to the aforementioned senator, three other lawmakers during the interview also spoke about how Ukrainian officials told them that they believed that there was growing support in Congress for sending F-16s to Kyiv. Since the beginning of what Moscow has called its “special military operation” in Ukraine almost a year ago, Washington has sent AGM-88 air-to-surface rockets which Kyiv’s air force fires from their Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets.&nbsp;

However, during the lobbying which took place over the weekend, Ukrainian officials who have not been identified as per Kelly said, “They contended that they need that airplane for the SEAD (suppression of enemy air defences) mission”. He added that Kyiv probably thinks they can do a better job at taking out the Russian S-400s. They will take at least one year of training to master all of the F-16’s capabilities but in the meantime, Ukrainian pilots could be taught a “limited number of things...in a few months,” said the US senator, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-russia-to-be-defeated-in-war-against-ukraine-not-crushed-says-frances-macron-563649">Want Russia to be ‘defeated’ in war against Ukraine, not ‘crushed’, says France’s Macron</a>

While support for Ukraine by its western allies was reaffirmed during the MSC, they have been reluctant to use their air power in a significant way since the conflict began. This comes after there has been growing support from several countries about providing Kyiv with NATO-standard jet fighters with the United Kingdom reportedly saying they would provide training. Ukraine has recently sought advanced fighter jets after its allies in the West agreed to send over 300 tanks amid its conflict with Russia, said Kyiv’s ambassador to France, last month.&nbsp;

France to send “light tanks” to Ukraine by next week

Earlier today, France said that it would begin delivering its AMX-10 armoured vehicles which are also described as “light tanks” and are said to be used for armed reconnaissance and conducted attacks on enemy tanks. As per the French defence ministry, the vehicles whose combat weight is around 20 tonnes are highly mobile, “powerfully armed” and offer protection against light infantry fire.&nbsp;

In an interview with the French newspaper Le Parisien, the country’s Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu said that the first of these vehicles will be sent to Kyiv “by the end of next week”. He also declined to comment on the exact number of AMX-10s that are going to be sent in the first batch as he did not want to give Russia any “strategic information”, reported AFP.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-reminds-france-of-napoleon-slams-emmanuel-macron-for-regime-change-remark-563666">Russia slams Emmanuel Macron for his remarks, says Moscow remembers Napoleon’s fate</a>

This comes after President Emmanuel Macron promised to send their “light tanks”&nbsp;in early January after months of reluctance by France and its allies over fears that increased weapons deliveries could further escalate the conflict. Addressing Kyiv’s request for fighter jets, the defence minister said that the question is “not taboo” but such military aid poses complex “logistical and practical questions”.

Meanwhile, Lecornu said that the training of Ukrainian troops on the AMX-10 was “nearly complete” and that&nbsp;military personnel’s overall training is “intensifying” in both France and fellow NATO member Poland. He added, starting next month, 600 Ukrainian troops would undergo training every month.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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A report by Reuters citing United States lawmakers said that Ukrainian officials have urged them on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference (MSC), late Saturday to press President Joe Biden’s administration for sending F-16 fighter jets to Kyiv.

A report by Reuters citing United States lawmakers said that Ukrainian officials have urged them on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference (MSC), late Saturday to press President Joe Biden’s administration for sending F-16 fighter jets to Kyiv. This comes weeks after Ukraine’s allies in the West, after months of discussion, approved sending tanks to Kyiv amid its conflict with Russia. Meanwhile, France, on Sunday (February 19) said that it will begin delivering the armoured vehicles promised to Ukraine by next weekend. US lawmakers back Kyiv on the sidelines of Munich Security Conference In what members called the largest number of US lawmakers sent to attend the security conference since it began in 1953, Washington has demonstrated clear bipartisan support for Ukraine. Notably, there are four delegations from the House of Representatives and the Senate combined at this year’s MSC from Washington which includes both Democrats and Republicans. Speaking to Reuters, Senator Mark Kelly said, “They (Ukrainian officials) told us that they want (F-16s) to suppress enemy air defenses so they could get their drones”. Additionally, representatives from Kyiv also said that these aircraft would boost their ability to hit Russian missile units. This comes a month after the US president said “no” to sending fighter jets to Ukraine. ALSO READ | LIVE Munich Security Conference: Blinken and Wang hold 'candid talks' amid balloon spat In addition to the aforementioned senator, three other lawmakers during the interview also spoke about how Ukrainian officials told them that they believed that there was growing support in Congress for sending F-16s to Kyiv. Since the beginning of what Moscow has called its “special military operation” in Ukraine almost a year ago, Washington has sent AGM-88 air-to-surface rockets which Kyiv’s air force fires from their Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets. However, during the lobbying which took place over the weekend, Ukrainian officials who have not been identified as per Kelly said, “They contended that they need that airplane for the SEAD (suppression of enemy air defences) mission”. He added that Kyiv probably thinks they can do a better job at taking out the Russian S-400s. They will take at least one year of training to master all of the F-16’s capabilities but in the meantime, Ukrainian pilots could be taught a “limited number of things...in a few months,” said the US senator, as per Reuters. ALSO READ | Want Russia to be ‘defeated’ in war against Ukraine, not ‘crushed’, says France’s Macron While support for Ukraine by its western allies was reaffirmed during the MSC, they have been reluctant to use their air power in a significant way since the conflict began. This comes after there has been growing support from several countries about providing Kyiv with NATO-standard jet fighters with the United Kingdom reportedly saying they would provide training. Ukraine has recently sought advanced fighter jets after its allies in the West agreed to send over 300 tanks amid its conflict with Russia, said Kyiv’s ambassador to France, last month. France to send “light tanks” to Ukraine by next week Earlier today, France said that it would begin delivering its AMX-10 armoured vehicles which are also described as “light tanks” and are said to be used for armed reconnaissance and conducted attacks on enemy tanks. As per the French defence ministry, the vehicles whose combat weight is around 20 tonnes are highly mobile, “powerfully armed” and offer protection against light infantry fire. In an interview with the French newspaper Le Parisien, the country’s Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu said that the first of these vehicles will be sent to Kyiv “by the end of next week”. He also declined to comment on the exact number of AMX-10s that are going to be sent in the first batch as he did not want to give Russia any “strategic information”, reported AFP. ALSO READ | Russia slams Emmanuel Macron for his remarks, says Moscow remembers Napoleon’s fate This comes after President Emmanuel Macron promised to send their “light tanks” in early January after months of reluctance by France and its allies over fears that increased weapons deliveries could further escalate the conflict. Addressing Kyiv’s request for fighter jets, the defence minister said that the question is “not taboo” but such military aid poses complex “logistical and practical questions”. Meanwhile, Lecornu said that the training of Ukrainian troops on the AMX-10 was “nearly complete” and that military personnel’s overall training is “intensifying” in both France and fellow NATO member Poland. He added, starting next month, 600 Ukrainian troops would undergo training every month. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine pushes US lawmakers for F-16s; France to send ‘light tanks’ to Kyiv by ‘end of next week’

A 19-year-old student from Russia’s Arkhangelsk region may face a total of ten years in prison, if convicted, for supposedly discrediting Moscow’s army and justifying terrorism. Furthermore, the teenager has also been placed on Russia’s terror list which puts her on par with ISIS, al Qaeda and the Taliban. This comes after she was charged over social media posts which were allegedly critical of the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Who is she?

The teenager in question is Olesya Krivtsova hailing from Russia’s Arkhangelsk region has been placed on house arrest after she was charged for her social media posts which authorities in Moscow say discredit the Russian army and justify terrorism.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-live-zelenskiy-calls-for-faster-weapons-supplies-557307">Russia-Ukraine war Live | Zelensky calls for faster weapons supplies</a>

Krivtsova who is a student at the Northern Federal University is also facing criminal charges for her alleged discrediting of the Russian army and making a critical repost of the war on a student chat on VK, a Russian social network. Currently, the 19-year-old is under house arrest at her mother’s apartment and is banned from going online or using other forms of communication.&nbsp;

How did this happen?

According to media reports, one of the supposedly anti-war posts also included an explosion on the Crimean bridge in October 2021 which also criticised Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. Addressing the post in question, during&nbsp;a recent&nbsp;interview with BBC,&nbsp;Olesya said, "I posted an Instagram story about the bridge&nbsp;reflecting on how Ukrainians were happy with what had happened." 
 
Subsequently, two of her fellow students took a screenshot of the story as well as some of &nbsp;Krivtsova’s anti-war comments shared in a small chatroom on the Telegram messaging app and reported her to the authorities, as per a report by Washington Post. In relation to this case, Krivtsova has been detained twice.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/war-in-ukraine-president-zelensky-urges-faster-delivery-of-new-and-existing-weapons-557131">War in Ukraine: President Zelensky urges faster delivery of new and existing weapons</a>

Law introduced in Russia days after its ‘special military operation’ began in Ukraine

Last year, in March Russia, introduced <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-ukraine-invasion-russia-intesifies-crackdown-on-media-464863">two articles</a> to its criminal code which were passed days after what Moscow described as its “special military operation” first began in Ukraine. One of them was article 280.3 states that “public actions aimed at discrediting the use of the armed forces of the Russian Federation”. The violation of this is punishable by fines and a prison sentence of up to three years in lesser cases, or five years if there is resulting damage to life, property, public order and security.&nbsp;

What do we know about Krivtsova's case? 
 
Last May, Krivtsova had to pay a fine of $450 after she was charged with “discrediting the Russian armed forces” by distributing anti-war posters. However, the 19-year-old was later detained for the first time when a group of officers showed up at her door on December 26.

According to Natalya Krivtsova, her mother, at the time her daughter was living with her husband Ilya when they were asked to lie face down on the ground. "I was talking on the phone to my mother when I heard the front door opening. Lots of police came in. They took away my phone and shouted at me to lie on the floor,"&nbsp;Olesya told BBC.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-3-killed-14-injured-in-russian-strike-on-residential-complex-in-east-ukraine-556928">Russia-Ukraine war: 3 killed, 14 injured in Russian strike on residential complex in East Ukraine</a>

The officers allegedly threatened them with a sledgehammer, her mother also said that Olesya was scared that he would hit her husband with it. On their way to the police station officers reportedly told her “hello from Wagner”, a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-designates-wagner-group-as-significant-transnational-criminal-organization-imposes-harsher-sanctions-556330">mercenary group</a> headed by Yevgeny Prigozhin who has sent a private army to fight alongside the Russian military in Ukraine.&nbsp;

“Olesya was very frightened because she saw the video in which a prisoner was killed with a sledgehammer”, the teenager’s mother told CNN. The video she is referring to is what has made the sledgehammer, an eerie symbol of Wagner which shows mercenaries from the group who allegedly executed a man convicted for murder, Yevgeny Nuzhin, as per media reports.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-recruiting-prisoners-with-hiv-hepatitis-for-putins-private-army-report-529885">Moscow recruiting prisoners with HIV, hepatitis for Putin's private army: Report</a>

The 55-year-old was&nbsp;released from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-russias-wagner-group-is-hiring-mercenaries-from-prisons-505314">prison</a> to fight in Ukraine and when he attempted to leave his post he was allegedly killed with a sledgehammer, “The traitor received the traditional, primordial Wagnerian punishment,” said the description of the video as per CNN.&nbsp;

After her detention, she was taken to the regional court in Primorsky where the judge ruled to limit her communication but not restrain her movements which the prosecution, as per the Washington Post, strongly requested. However, days later placed on the wanted list and detained again and accused of attempting to leave the country.&nbsp;

Currently placed on house arrest awaiting trial Krivtsova sports a bracelet which tracks her every movement on one ankle and a tattoo on the other that shows Russian President Vladimir Putin's face on the body of a spider that says ‘Big Brother is Watching You’.&nbsp;
<img alt="1" data-caption="(Photo: Twitter/@Billyjensen)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b82dc99c-8b4d-4f17-8b8d-0a9e4f47687e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20%2813%29_3.png" />
Speaking to CNN, the 19-year-old’s lawyer, Alexei Kichin said, “Olesya’s case is not the first, nor is it the last”. She also said that Krivtsova may face a sentence of at least three years in prison for discrediting the Russian army and up to seven years in prison for justification of terrorism.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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A 19-year-old student from Russia’s Arkhangelsk region may face a total of ten years in prison, if convicted, for supposedly discrediting Moscow’s army and justifying terrorism.

A 19-year-old student from Russia’s Arkhangelsk region may face a total of ten years in prison, if convicted, for supposedly discrediting Moscow’s army and justifying terrorism. Furthermore, the teenager has also been placed on Russia’s terror list which puts her on par with ISIS, al Qaeda and the Taliban. This comes after she was charged over social media posts which were allegedly critical of the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. Who is she? The teenager in question is Olesya Krivtsova hailing from Russia’s Arkhangelsk region has been placed on house arrest after she was charged for her social media posts which authorities in Moscow say discredit the Russian army and justify terrorism. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war Live | Zelensky calls for faster weapons supplies Krivtsova who is a student at the Northern Federal University is also facing criminal charges for her alleged discrediting of the Russian army and making a critical repost of the war on a student chat on VK, a Russian social network. Currently, the 19-year-old is under house arrest at her mother’s apartment and is banned from going online or using other forms of communication. How did this happen? According to media reports, one of the supposedly anti-war posts also included an explosion on the Crimean bridge in October 2021 which also criticised Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. Addressing the post in question, during a recent interview with BBC, Olesya said, "I posted an Instagram story about the bridge reflecting on how Ukrainians were happy with what had happened." Subsequently, two of her fellow students took a screenshot of the story as well as some of Krivtsova’s anti-war comments shared in a small chatroom on the Telegram messaging app and reported her to the authorities, as per a report by Washington Post. In relation to this case, Krivtsova has been detained twice. ALSO WATCH | War in Ukraine: President Zelensky urges faster delivery of new and existing weapons Law introduced in Russia days after its ‘special military operation’ began in Ukraine Last year, in March Russia, introduced two articles to its criminal code which were passed days after what Moscow described as its “special military operation” first began in Ukraine. One of them was article 280.3 states that “public actions aimed at discrediting the use of the armed forces of the Russian Federation”. The violation of this is punishable by fines and a prison sentence of up to three years in lesser cases, or five years if there is resulting damage to life, property, public order and security. What do we know about Krivtsova's case? Last May, Krivtsova had to pay a fine of $450 after she was charged with “discrediting the Russian armed forces” by distributing anti-war posters. However, the 19-year-old was later detained for the first time when a group of officers showed up at her door on December 26. According to Natalya Krivtsova, her mother, at the time her daughter was living with her husband Ilya when they were asked to lie face down on the ground. "I was talking on the phone to my mother when I heard the front door opening. Lots of police came in. They took away my phone and shouted at me to lie on the floor," Olesya told BBC. ALSO WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: 3 killed, 14 injured in Russian strike on residential complex in East Ukraine The officers allegedly threatened them with a sledgehammer, her mother also said that Olesya was scared that he would hit her husband with it. On their way to the police station officers reportedly told her “hello from Wagner”, a mercenary group headed by Yevgeny Prigozhin who has sent a private army to fight alongside the Russian military in Ukraine. “Olesya was very frightened because she saw the video in which a prisoner was killed with a sledgehammer”, the teenager’s mother told CNN. The video she is referring to is what has made the sledgehammer, an eerie symbol of Wagner which shows mercenaries from the group who allegedly executed a man convicted for murder, Yevgeny Nuzhin, as per media reports. ALSO READ | Moscow recruiting prisoners with HIV, hepatitis for Putin's private army: Report The 55-year-old was released from prison to fight in Ukraine and when he attempted to leave his post he was allegedly killed with a sledgehammer, “The traitor received the traditional, primordial Wagnerian punishment,” said the description of the video as per CNN. After her detention, she was taken to the regional court in Primorsky where the judge ruled to limit her communication but not restrain her movements which the prosecution, as per the Washington Post, strongly requested. However, days later placed on the wanted list and detained again and accused of attempting to leave the country. Currently placed on house arrest awaiting trial Krivtsova sports a bracelet which tracks her every movement on one ankle and a tattoo on the other that shows Russian President Vladimir Putin's face on the body of a spider that says ‘Big Brother is Watching You’. Speaking to CNN, the 19-year-old’s lawyer, Alexei Kichin said, “Olesya’s case is not the first, nor is it the last”. She also said that Krivtsova may face a sentence of at least three years in prison for discrediting the Russian army and up to seven years in prison for justification of terrorism. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russian teen to face 10 years in prison, placed on terror list over anti-war posts: What we know so far

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;

The Ukrainian presidential office, on Monday (February 13), said that the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is witnessing fierce battle as Russian forces continue heavy shelling and infantry attacks. At least five civilians have been killed while several others have been wounded in the last 24 hours across Ukraine, they added. Meanwhile, speaking to reporters in Brussels, the NATO chief while urging Kyiv’s allies in the West to ramp up military support for the conflict-torn country said that Russia’s so-called spring offensive might already have begun.&nbsp;

According to Ukrainian military officials, positions in Bakhmut have been fortified with only those with a military role being allowed inside the city in eastern Ukraine, reported Reuters, and any civilians who still want to leave the city would have to brave the incoming fire. They have also reported Russian shelling along the frontlines and bombardment of at least 16 settlements near Bakhmut.&nbsp;

Additionally, the deputy commander of Ukraine's Svoboda battalion, told Reuters that “the city, the city's suburbs, the entire perimeter, and essentially the entire Bakhmut direction and Kostyantynivka are under crazy, chaotic shelling”. He added that while there is no fighting in the city centre, the forces are prepared for any assault.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-clears-final-military-hurdle-to-set-up-a-naval-base-on-red-sea-561368">Russia clears final 'military' hurdle to set up a naval base on Red Sea</a> &nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian presidential office has also called the situation in the city’s northern suburb of Paraskoviivka “difficult” as it endures intense shelling, while the nearby town of Vuhledar is also under heavy bombardment. This comes as the eastern Ukrainian city is said to be an important objective for Russian President Vladimir Putin as its capture would allow Moscow to establish a strong hold over the Donetsk region after facing months of setbacks.&nbsp;

In the past 24 hours, Russia has shelled dozens of cities and villages in Donetsk which also includes Druzhkivka where a missile hit a hospital and Pokrovsk where constant shelling damaged at least seven houses and a kindergarten, said a report by the Associated Press. Additionally, Donetsk Governor Pavlo Kyrylenko said that the Russian shelling has intensified as they “accumulate more forces for an attack on peaceful cities”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-chief-stoltenberg-plans-to-step-down-in-october-spokesperson-561190">NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg plans to step down in October, not keen for fourth term: Spokesperson</a>

On the other hand, Ukrainian region Luhansk’s Governor Serhii Haidai, in a TV interview said that while Moscow’s troops have pulled back after days of intense fighting near the key city of Kreminna they are not “running out of steam”. The Dnipropetrovsk region also witnessed shelling where one person was killed and two others were injured in the city of Nikopol, as per media reports.&nbsp;

NATO chief’s address in Brussels 
 
Addressing reporters, on Monday, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said, “The reality is we have seen the start (of a Russian offensive) already”. This comes as many have feared a massive offensive by Moscow as it nears the one-year anniversary of its “special military operation” in Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/f-16-fighter-jets-should-be-given-to-ukraine-only-after-consensus-poland-561225">F-16 fighter jets should be given to Ukraine only after consensus: Poland</a>

The NATO chief also said how this “highlights the importance of timing. It’s urgent to provide Ukraine with more weapons” and that Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown “no sign whatsoever” of “preparing for peace”. He added, “President Putin does now - is to send thousands and thousands more troops, accepting a very high rate of casualty.” Therefore, he believes that arming Ukraine more quickly could save lives and bring a quicker end to the conflict.

“The current rate of Ukraine’s ammunition expenditure is many times higher than our current rate of production”, said Stoltenberg adding that it will increase targets for stockpiling ammunition. This also comes as Ukraine has sought fighter jets and long-range missiles from its western allies to counter-offensive, which the NATO chief said would be discussed but that Kyiv needs support on the ground.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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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. The Ukrainian presidential office, on Monday (February 13), said that the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is witnessing fierce battle as Russian forces continue heavy shelling and infantry attacks. At least five civilians have been killed while several others have been wounded in the last 24 hours across Ukraine, they added. Meanwhile, speaking to reporters in Brussels, the NATO chief while urging Kyiv’s allies in the West to ramp up military support for the conflict-torn country said that Russia’s so-called spring offensive might already have begun. According to Ukrainian military officials, positions in Bakhmut have been fortified with only those with a military role being allowed inside the city in eastern Ukraine, reported Reuters, and any civilians who still want to leave the city would have to brave the incoming fire. They have also reported Russian shelling along the frontlines and bombardment of at least 16 settlements near Bakhmut. Additionally, the deputy commander of Ukraine's Svoboda battalion, told Reuters that “the city, the city's suburbs, the entire perimeter, and essentially the entire Bakhmut direction and Kostyantynivka are under crazy, chaotic shelling”. He added that while there is no fighting in the city centre, the forces are prepared for any assault. ALSO READ | Russia clears final 'military' hurdle to set up a naval base on Red Sea Meanwhile, the Ukrainian presidential office has also called the situation in the city’s northern suburb of Paraskoviivka “difficult” as it endures intense shelling, while the nearby town of Vuhledar is also under heavy bombardment. This comes as the eastern Ukrainian city is said to be an important objective for Russian President Vladimir Putin as its capture would allow Moscow to establish a strong hold over the Donetsk region after facing months of setbacks. In the past 24 hours, Russia has shelled dozens of cities and villages in Donetsk which also includes Druzhkivka where a missile hit a hospital and Pokrovsk where constant shelling damaged at least seven houses and a kindergarten, said a report by the Associated Press. Additionally, Donetsk Governor Pavlo Kyrylenko said that the Russian shelling has intensified as they “accumulate more forces for an attack on peaceful cities”. ALSO READ | NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg plans to step down in October, not keen for fourth term: Spokesperson On the other hand, Ukrainian region Luhansk’s Governor Serhii Haidai, in a TV interview said that while Moscow’s troops have pulled back after days of intense fighting near the key city of Kreminna they are not “running out of steam”. The Dnipropetrovsk region also witnessed shelling where one person was killed and two others were injured in the city of Nikopol, as per media reports. NATO chief’s address in Brussels Addressing reporters, on Monday, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said, “The reality is we have seen the start (of a Russian offensive) already”. This comes as many have feared a massive offensive by Moscow as it nears the one-year anniversary of its “special military operation” in Ukraine. ALSO READ | F-16 fighter jets should be given to Ukraine only after consensus: Poland The NATO chief also said how this “highlights the importance of timing. It’s urgent to provide Ukraine with more weapons” and that Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown “no sign whatsoever” of “preparing for peace”. He added, “President Putin does now - is to send thousands and thousands more troops, accepting a very high rate of casualty.” Therefore, he believes that arming Ukraine more quickly could save lives and bring a quicker end to the conflict. “The current rate of Ukraine’s ammunition expenditure is many times higher than our current rate of production”, said Stoltenberg adding that it will increase targets for stockpiling ammunition. This also comes as Ukraine has sought fighter jets and long-range missiles from its western allies to counter-offensive, which the NATO chief said would be discussed but that Kyiv needs support on the ground. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia launches attack on Ukraine’s Bakhmut; signs of new offensive by Moscow, says NATO chief

The Russia-Ukraine war documented in iconic pictures

Moldova’s President Maia Sandu, on Monday (February 13) accused Russia of planning to use foreign saboteurs to overthrow her country’s government which aspires to join the European Union amid Moscow’s ongoing conflict with the bordering nation Ukraine. This comes a week after Sandu met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky who said that they discovered plans by Russian intelligence to destroy Moldova, claims which were later confirmed by Moldovan intelligence officials.&nbsp;

“The plan for the next period involves actions with the involvement of diversionists with military training, camouflaged in civilian clothes, who will undertake violent actions, attack some state buildings, and even take hostages,” said the Moldovan president to the press during a briefing. She added that the purpose of these actions is to “overthrow the constitutional order” and change the legitimate government to an illegitimate one which would be “controlled by the Russian Federation.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-secret-services-trying-to-subvert-pro-west-govt-in-moldova-report-529199">Russian secret services trying to subvert pro-West govt in Moldova: Report</a>

According to Sandu, the plan involved citizens from Russia, Montenegro, Belarus and Serbia who would enter Moldova and instigate protests in an attempt to overthrow the legitimate government, “in order to stop the European integration process.” Notably, Moldova received European Union candidate status last year on the same day as Ukraine.&nbsp;

“The Kremlin’s attempts to bring violence to Moldova will not work. Our main goal is the security of citizens and the state. Our goal is peace and public order in the country”, Sandu asserted. The alleged plan also relies on “internal forces”, said the Moldovan president and named two Moldovan oligarchs, Ilan Shor and Vladimir Plahotniuc, both of whom are not only currently in exile but also sanctioned by the United States and the United Kingdom.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moldova-thousands-participate-in-anti-government-protest-amid-high-inflation-517846">Moldova: Thousands participate in anti-government protest amid high inflation</a> 
 
She also alleged that Russia wants to use Moldova amid its ongoing conflict with Ukraine and the information obtained by the two country’s intelligence contained what she described as instructions on rules of entry to Moldova for citizens from the four aforementioned countries, reported the Associated Press. The briefing also comes after authorities in Moldova confirmed that another missile from the conflict between Russia and Ukraine entered its airspace on Friday.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/war-in-ukraine-two-russian-missiles-crossed-into-romania-and-moldova-560685">War in Ukraine: Two Russian missiles crossed into Romania and Moldova</a>

However, she went on to assure that the officials are working to prevent these challenges as well as keep the situation under control. The Moldovan president also said that late last year the country’s police and its Intelligence and Security Service (SIS) intervened in multiple cases of “organised criminal elements and stopped attempts at violence.”&nbsp;

Furthermore, Sandu also called for the adoption of draft laws which would equip SIS and the prosecutor’s office with the necessary tools and combat risks to the country’s security more effectively. This comes as the former Soviet republic which borders Ukraine has repeatedly raised concerns about Russia’s intentions as well as its troops' presence in the breakaway Transdniestria region.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Moldova’s President Maia Sandu, on Monday (February 13) accused Russia of planning to use foreign saboteurs to overthrow her country’s government which aspires to join the European Union amid Moscow’s ongoing conflict with the bordering nation Ukraine.

Moldova’s President Maia Sandu, on Monday (February 13) accused Russia of planning to use foreign saboteurs to overthrow her country’s government which aspires to join the European Union amid Moscow’s ongoing conflict with the bordering nation Ukraine. This comes a week after Sandu met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky who said that they discovered plans by Russian intelligence to destroy Moldova, claims which were later confirmed by Moldovan intelligence officials. “The plan for the next period involves actions with the involvement of diversionists with military training, camouflaged in civilian clothes, who will undertake violent actions, attack some state buildings, and even take hostages,” said the Moldovan president to the press during a briefing. She added that the purpose of these actions is to “overthrow the constitutional order” and change the legitimate government to an illegitimate one which would be “controlled by the Russian Federation.” ALSO READ | Russian secret services trying to subvert pro-West govt in Moldova: Report According to Sandu, the plan involved citizens from Russia, Montenegro, Belarus and Serbia who would enter Moldova and instigate protests in an attempt to overthrow the legitimate government, “in order to stop the European integration process.” Notably, Moldova received European Union candidate status last year on the same day as Ukraine. “The Kremlin’s attempts to bring violence to Moldova will not work. Our main goal is the security of citizens and the state. Our goal is peace and public order in the country”, Sandu asserted. The alleged plan also relies on “internal forces”, said the Moldovan president and named two Moldovan oligarchs, Ilan Shor and Vladimir Plahotniuc, both of whom are not only currently in exile but also sanctioned by the United States and the United Kingdom. ALSO READ | Moldova: Thousands participate in anti-government protest amid high inflation She also alleged that Russia wants to use Moldova amid its ongoing conflict with Ukraine and the information obtained by the two country’s intelligence contained what she described as instructions on rules of entry to Moldova for citizens from the four aforementioned countries, reported the Associated Press. The briefing also comes after authorities in Moldova confirmed that another missile from the conflict between Russia and Ukraine entered its airspace on Friday. ALSO WATCH | War in Ukraine: Two Russian missiles crossed into Romania and Moldova However, she went on to assure that the officials are working to prevent these challenges as well as keep the situation under control. The Moldovan president also said that late last year the country’s police and its Intelligence and Security Service (SIS) intervened in multiple cases of “organised criminal elements and stopped attempts at violence.” Furthermore, Sandu also called for the adoption of draft laws which would equip SIS and the prosecutor’s office with the necessary tools and combat risks to the country’s security more effectively. This comes as the former Soviet republic which borders Ukraine has repeatedly raised concerns about Russia’s intentions as well as its troops' presence in the breakaway Transdniestria region. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Moldovan President Maia Sandu reveals Russia’s plans to topple its government

A report by the Guardian citing anonymous sources, on Sunday (February 12) reported that Iran has used boats and state-owned airlines to smuggle advanced long-range armed drones to Russia amid its invasion of Ukraine. At least 18 drones were delivered to Moscow’s navy following a visit by Russian officials to Tehran back in November where they selected the drones in question, as per the report.&nbsp;

Last year, Russia is said to have sent a 10-man delegation to Iran that selected six Mohajer-6 drones and 12 Shahed 191 and 129 drones, the former can fly around 200 km and carry two missiles under each of its wings while the latter is capable of the air-to-ground strike.&nbsp;

Additionally, the Mohajer-6 drones can remain in the air for six hours and operate on electric power and are equipped to carry bombs weighing at least 40kg, high-precision imaging and targeting systems, reported the Guardian. The Shahed 129 can carry a 60 kg payload and fly for at least four hours, while the Shahed 191 can fly for five hours and carry 10 kg more than the former.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-is-west-bothered-about-iran-sending-drones-to-russia-528264">Why is West bothered about Iran sending drones to Russia?&nbsp;</a>

According to the report, most of the drones in question were “secretly picked” by an Iranian vessel from a base in the Caspian Sea and then transferred at sea to a Russian navy boat. The sources also claimed that others were sent to Moscow on a state-owned Iranian airline.&nbsp;

This comes after officials in the United States said that Iran had begun showcasing its Shahed 191 and 129 drones in June to Russia and expected the sale to happen in the upcoming months. Additionally, Tehran has also sent three officials per drone which is approximately 54 people in total to help “integrate the smuggled craft into the Russian military”, claimed the Guardian citing sources in the middle eastern country.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-warns-turkey-on-exports-to-russia-that-could-boost-its-war-in-ukraine-558892">US warns Turkey over exports to Russia that could boost its war in Ukraine</a>

The drones are also said to be produced in the military facility in the Iranian city of Isfahan which was recently targeted by what is believed to be an Israeli drone. According to the report, more orders for drones were expected before the strike which is said to have caused significant damage. This also comes amid reports of Russia reaching out to Iran and North Korea to replenish its military stocks amid its ongoing conflict with Ukraine and fears of a major attack by Moscow as the invasion reaches its one-year mark.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-officials-suspect-israels-involvement-in-drone-attack-on-iranian-military-facility-what-we-know-so-far-557205">US officials suspect Israel’s involvement in drone attack on Iranian 'workshop': What we know so far</a>

In October, Kyiv was hit by a Shahed 136 drone which reportedly killed five people after it got through and exploded on a house. Additionally, Ukraine had also claimed to have downed Mohajer-6 drones since September and the officials showed one to the Guardian in November. This comes as Russia continues to bomb Ukrainian towns and cities while reports suggest that Moscow has also sought more advanced drones.&nbsp; 
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A report by the Guardian citing anonymous sources, on Sunday (February 12) reported that Iran has used boats and state-owned airlines to smuggle advanced long-range armed drones to Russia amid its invasion of Ukraine.

A report by the Guardian citing anonymous sources, on Sunday (February 12) reported that Iran has used boats and state-owned airlines to smuggle advanced long-range armed drones to Russia amid its invasion of Ukraine. At least 18 drones were delivered to Moscow’s navy following a visit by Russian officials to Tehran back in November where they selected the drones in question, as per the report. Last year, Russia is said to have sent a 10-man delegation to Iran that selected six Mohajer-6 drones and 12 Shahed 191 and 129 drones, the former can fly around 200 km and carry two missiles under each of its wings while the latter is capable of the air-to-ground strike. Additionally, the Mohajer-6 drones can remain in the air for six hours and operate on electric power and are equipped to carry bombs weighing at least 40kg, high-precision imaging and targeting systems, reported the Guardian. The Shahed 129 can carry a 60 kg payload and fly for at least four hours, while the Shahed 191 can fly for five hours and carry 10 kg more than the former. ALSO READ | Why is West bothered about Iran sending drones to Russia? According to the report, most of the drones in question were “secretly picked” by an Iranian vessel from a base in the Caspian Sea and then transferred at sea to a Russian navy boat. The sources also claimed that others were sent to Moscow on a state-owned Iranian airline. This comes after officials in the United States said that Iran had begun showcasing its Shahed 191 and 129 drones in June to Russia and expected the sale to happen in the upcoming months. Additionally, Tehran has also sent three officials per drone which is approximately 54 people in total to help “integrate the smuggled craft into the Russian military”, claimed the Guardian citing sources in the middle eastern country. ALSO READ | US warns Turkey over exports to Russia that could boost its war in Ukraine The drones are also said to be produced in the military facility in the Iranian city of Isfahan which was recently targeted by what is believed to be an Israeli drone. According to the report, more orders for drones were expected before the strike which is said to have caused significant damage. This also comes amid reports of Russia reaching out to Iran and North Korea to replenish its military stocks amid its ongoing conflict with Ukraine and fears of a major attack by Moscow as the invasion reaches its one-year mark. ALSO READ | US officials suspect Israel’s involvement in drone attack on Iranian 'workshop': What we know so far In October, Kyiv was hit by a Shahed 136 drone which reportedly killed five people after it got through and exploded on a house. Additionally, Ukraine had also claimed to have downed Mohajer-6 drones since September and the officials showed one to the Guardian in November. This comes as Russia continues to bomb Ukrainian towns and cities while reports suggest that Moscow has also sought more advanced drones. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Iran smuggled at least 18 drones into Russia by boats, state airlines: Report

Austria is facing heavy criticism after the country granted visas to Russian lawmakers who have been sanctioned amid Moscow’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine to attend the Organization for Security and Cooperation (OSCE) meeting in Vienna. This comes as the European Union member nation has tried to balance its long-standing position of military neutrality amid the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. At least 81 OSCE delegates from 20 countries criticised Austria’s decision, in a letter and called upon the government to ban the participation of the sanctioned Russians, reported the Associated Press.&nbsp;

The letter in question was addressed to Austria’s chancellor, foreign minister and other officials in which&nbsp;at least 81 delegates from 20 countries including France, the United Kingdom, Poland, Ukraine, and so on have called upon the government in Vienna to ban the participation of sanctioned Russian lawmakers. They wrote, “Russian parliamentarians are an integral part of the power system and complicit in the crimes Russia commits every day in Ukraine.”

Therefore, lawmakers from Moscow “have no place in an institution tasked with promoting sincere dialogue and opposition to the war,” the letter added. They also said that Russia would use the meeting to “sow disinformation, fake news and hate speech” and their participation would be read as “indirect legitimisation and part of a return to ‘business as usual,’” reported AFP.&nbsp;

Since the beginning of the conflict, while the Austrian government has condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine, it has asserted the need to maintain diplomatic relations with Moscow. The European country is also home to several international organisations, including the 57-member nation OSCE which was established during the Cold War to facilitate dialogue between the East and West, of which Russia is also a part.&nbsp;

Reports suggest that Moscow plans to send delegates on February 23 and 24 when the OSCE’s parliamentary assembly is set to convene. However, the Russian delegation includes at least 15 lawmakers who have been sanctioned by the EU. Earlier this month, Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg also defended the government’s decision to issue visas to the sanctioned Russian lawmakers.&nbsp;

He argued that despite the “brutal Russian attack against Ukraine”, it is important to have open channels of communication with Moscow. Additionally, the foreign ministry said that they are legally obligated as the host of OSCE headquarters in the country’s capital city to grant visas to representatives of nations who want to participate. So far, Austria has only sent humanitarian aid to Ukraine but unlike most of its EU counterparts has not sent weapons to Kyiv.&nbsp;

This also comes days after Austria expelled four Russian diplomats for acting “in a manner inconsistent with their diplomatic status”. Out of the four diplomats, the two stationed at the Russian Embassy in Austria were declared personae non-gratae and ordered to leave the country by February 8. Whereas the other two worked at the Russian mission to the United Nations in Vienna, said the Austrian foreign ministry, in a statement.&nbsp;

It added, the two working with the UN, acted in a way that was inconsistent with the host country agreement between the United Nations and Austria. While the ministry did not detail the actions of the diplomats, officials speaking on condition of anonymity to Reuters said that the case involved spying.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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Austria is facing heavy criticism after the country granted visas to Russian lawmakers who have been sanctioned amid Moscow’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine to attend the Organization for Security and Cooperation (OSCE) meeting in Vienna.

Austria is facing heavy criticism after the country granted visas to Russian lawmakers who have been sanctioned amid Moscow’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine to attend the Organization for Security and Cooperation (OSCE) meeting in Vienna. This comes as the European Union member nation has tried to balance its long-standing position of military neutrality amid the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. At least 81 OSCE delegates from 20 countries criticised Austria’s decision, in a letter and called upon the government to ban the participation of the sanctioned Russians, reported the Associated Press. The letter in question was addressed to Austria’s chancellor, foreign minister and other officials in which at least 81 delegates from 20 countries including France, the United Kingdom, Poland, Ukraine, and so on have called upon the government in Vienna to ban the participation of sanctioned Russian lawmakers. They wrote, “Russian parliamentarians are an integral part of the power system and complicit in the crimes Russia commits every day in Ukraine.” Therefore, lawmakers from Moscow “have no place in an institution tasked with promoting sincere dialogue and opposition to the war,” the letter added. They also said that Russia would use the meeting to “sow disinformation, fake news and hate speech” and their participation would be read as “indirect legitimisation and part of a return to ‘business as usual,’” reported AFP. Since the beginning of the conflict, while the Austrian government has condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine, it has asserted the need to maintain diplomatic relations with Moscow. The European country is also home to several international organisations, including the 57-member nation OSCE which was established during the Cold War to facilitate dialogue between the East and West, of which Russia is also a part. Reports suggest that Moscow plans to send delegates on February 23 and 24 when the OSCE’s parliamentary assembly is set to convene. However, the Russian delegation includes at least 15 lawmakers who have been sanctioned by the EU. Earlier this month, Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg also defended the government’s decision to issue visas to the sanctioned Russian lawmakers. He argued that despite the “brutal Russian attack against Ukraine”, it is important to have open channels of communication with Moscow. Additionally, the foreign ministry said that they are legally obligated as the host of OSCE headquarters in the country’s capital city to grant visas to representatives of nations who want to participate. So far, Austria has only sent humanitarian aid to Ukraine but unlike most of its EU counterparts has not sent weapons to Kyiv. This also comes days after Austria expelled four Russian diplomats for acting “in a manner inconsistent with their diplomatic status”. Out of the four diplomats, the two stationed at the Russian Embassy in Austria were declared personae non-gratae and ordered to leave the country by February 8. Whereas the other two worked at the Russian mission to the United Nations in Vienna, said the Austrian foreign ministry, in a statement. It added, the two working with the UN, acted in a way that was inconsistent with the host country agreement between the United Nations and Austria. While the ministry did not detail the actions of the diplomats, officials speaking on condition of anonymity to Reuters said that the case involved spying. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Austria faces criticism for granting visas to sanctioned Russian lawmakers for the upcoming OSCE meeting

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; 
 
Amid the ongoing Russian invasion, a Ukrainian governor claims that Moscow is pouring reinforcements into eastern Ukraine and signalled a possibility of a new offensive in the region, on Monday (February 6). Similarly, the Ukrainian president’s office, also said that intense fighting has been raging in the past couple of weeks in and around the city of Bakhmut and the nearby towns of Soledar and Vuhledar. However, British intelligence, on Tuesday, said that it is unlikely that Moscow has enough forces to change the course of the conflict in the upcoming weeks.&nbsp;

The aforementioned cities are located in eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk region which along with its neighbouring Luhansk region makes up the Donbas region which borders Russia. Kyiv is also anticipating a major offensive from Moscow which they believe could be “symbolic” as the one-year anniversary of Russia’s “special military operation” approaches on February 24.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-boss-shares-cockpit-video-challenges-ukraines-zelensky-to-aerial-duel-559401">Wagner boss shares cockpit video, challenges Ukraine's Zelensky to aerial duel</a>

The Ukrainian governor of the mainly Russian-occupied Luhansk province, Serhiy Haidai, in a recent interview with Ukrainian television said that the shelling in the region has subsided and they are seeing more and more of Moscow’s reserves being deployed in their direction and additional equipment also being brought in.

Furthermore, the governor also spoke about how this ammunition is different than before, “it is not round-the-clock shelling anymore. They are slowly starting to save, getting ready for a full-scale offensive,” said Haidai. He added, “It will most likely take them 10 days to gather reserves. After Feb. 15 we can expect (this offensive) at any time,” as per Reuters. While Ukraine itself has been planning a spring offensive and launching a counterattack to recapture some of its occupied territory and is waiting for the long-range missiles and battle tanks promised by the Western allies.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian presidential office, on Monday, said that at least one civilian had been killed and 10 others were injured after Russian shelling over the past 24 hours. Among those injured five people were from Kharkiv city where Russian shells struck residential buildings and a university, Ukraine claims.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-battle-for-eastern-ukraine-heats-up-559534">Russia- Ukraine war : Battle for eastern Ukraine heats up</a>

Meanwhile, Ukrainian military intelligence spokesperson, Vadym Skibitsky, said Kyiv believes that Russian offensives will take place in the eastern and southern regions of the country, reported the Associated Press. He added that Moscow’s forces will likely push an offensive in the Donbas region and the southern Zaporizhzhia region.&nbsp;

Notably, many believe that the conflict is reaching a turning point with its one-year anniversary approaching and so far Ukraine is not faring well as it is no longer making gains which it did late last year, media reports indicate. On the other hand, Russia has been pushing forward with hundreds of thousands of mobilised reserve troops. The Ukrainian military intelligence spokesperson also said that Russia plans to mobilise another 300,000-500,000 in addition to the 300,000 mobilised previously.&nbsp;

Similarly, in a separate interview, Ukrainian defence analyst from the Information Resistance group, Oleksandr Kovalenko said, that the new Russian offensive can come from one of four directions like the eastern Luhansk region, the Donetsk region, the Zaporizhzhia region and the city and port of Mariupol. He added, “Things are more serious in the Donetsk region, particularly around Bakhmut and Avdiivka. And the Russians will be boosting their contingents there as well as equipment and paratroops,” reported Reuters citing Ukrainian radio NV.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-reportedly-discussed-crucial-nuclear-arms-treaty-with-us-ambassador-559395">Russia reportedly discussed crucial nuclear arms treaty with US ambassador</a>

Meanwhile, in his evening address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, said there will be personnel changes at the border and along the frontlines in a bid to bolster the country’s military efforts. This also comes amid the ongoing uncertainty over the future of Ukraine’s Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov which Zelensky did not provide any clarity on but spoke about wanting to combine military and managerial experience in local and central government.&nbsp;

On Sunday, David Arakhamia, head of Zelensky’s parliamentary bloc had said that Reznikov would be transferred to another ministerial job but the next day backtracked and said there will be no changes in “personnel changes in the defence sector this week.” Meanwhile, Zelensky also said, “In a number of regions, particularly those on the border or on the front line, we will appoint leaders with military experience.”

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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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. Amid the ongoing Russian invasion, a Ukrainian governor claims that Moscow is pouring reinforcements into eastern Ukraine and signalled a possibility of a new offensive in the region, on Monday (February 6). Similarly, the Ukrainian president’s office, also said that intense fighting has been raging in the past couple of weeks in and around the city of Bakhmut and the nearby towns of Soledar and Vuhledar. However, British intelligence, on Tuesday, said that it is unlikely that Moscow has enough forces to change the course of the conflict in the upcoming weeks. The aforementioned cities are located in eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk region which along with its neighbouring Luhansk region makes up the Donbas region which borders Russia. Kyiv is also anticipating a major offensive from Moscow which they believe could be “symbolic” as the one-year anniversary of Russia’s “special military operation” approaches on February 24. ALSO READ | Wagner boss shares cockpit video, challenges Ukraine's Zelensky to aerial duel The Ukrainian governor of the mainly Russian-occupied Luhansk province, Serhiy Haidai, in a recent interview with Ukrainian television said that the shelling in the region has subsided and they are seeing more and more of Moscow’s reserves being deployed in their direction and additional equipment also being brought in. Furthermore, the governor also spoke about how this ammunition is different than before, “it is not round-the-clock shelling anymore. They are slowly starting to save, getting ready for a full-scale offensive,” said Haidai. He added, “It will most likely take them 10 days to gather reserves. After Feb. 15 we can expect (this offensive) at any time,” as per Reuters. While Ukraine itself has been planning a spring offensive and launching a counterattack to recapture some of its occupied territory and is waiting for the long-range missiles and battle tanks promised by the Western allies. The Ukrainian presidential office, on Monday, said that at least one civilian had been killed and 10 others were injured after Russian shelling over the past 24 hours. Among those injured five people were from Kharkiv city where Russian shells struck residential buildings and a university, Ukraine claims. ALSO WATCH | Russia- Ukraine war : Battle for eastern Ukraine heats up Meanwhile, Ukrainian military intelligence spokesperson, Vadym Skibitsky, said Kyiv believes that Russian offensives will take place in the eastern and southern regions of the country, reported the Associated Press. He added that Moscow’s forces will likely push an offensive in the Donbas region and the southern Zaporizhzhia region. Notably, many believe that the conflict is reaching a turning point with its one-year anniversary approaching and so far Ukraine is not faring well as it is no longer making gains which it did late last year, media reports indicate. On the other hand, Russia has been pushing forward with hundreds of thousands of mobilised reserve troops. The Ukrainian military intelligence spokesperson also said that Russia plans to mobilise another 300,000-500,000 in addition to the 300,000 mobilised previously. Similarly, in a separate interview, Ukrainian defence analyst from the Information Resistance group, Oleksandr Kovalenko said, that the new Russian offensive can come from one of four directions like the eastern Luhansk region, the Donetsk region, the Zaporizhzhia region and the city and port of Mariupol. He added, “Things are more serious in the Donetsk region, particularly around Bakhmut and Avdiivka. And the Russians will be boosting their contingents there as well as equipment and paratroops,” reported Reuters citing Ukrainian radio NV. ALSO READ | Russia reportedly discussed crucial nuclear arms treaty with US ambassador Meanwhile, in his evening address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, said there will be personnel changes at the border and along the frontlines in a bid to bolster the country’s military efforts. This also comes amid the ongoing uncertainty over the future of Ukraine’s Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov which Zelensky did not provide any clarity on but spoke about wanting to combine military and managerial experience in local and central government. On Sunday, David Arakhamia, head of Zelensky’s parliamentary bloc had said that Reznikov would be transferred to another ministerial job but the next day backtracked and said there will be no changes in “personnel changes in the defence sector this week.” Meanwhile, Zelensky also said, “In a number of regions, particularly those on the border or on the front line, we will appoint leaders with military experience.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russian forces continue to attack eastern Ukraine, new offensive by Moscow possible in 10 days, says governor

Global oil major ExxonMobil Corp on Tuesday informed it reaped a record net profit of $56 billion last year as oil prices touched record highs due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;

Exxon beat its own record of $45.2 billion in profits set way back in 2008 when oil prices hit $142 a barrel. Moreover, the figure was more than double the profit it managed in 2021&nbsp;($23 billion).&nbsp;

"Overall earnings and cash flow were up pretty significantly year on year. So that came really from a combination of strong markets, strong throughput, strong production, and really good cost control," Kathryn Mikells, Exxon CFO was quoted as saying by Reuters.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/energy-giant-exxonmobil-sues-european-union-in-a-bid-to-block-new-windfall-tax-547579">WATCH |&nbsp;WION Climate Trcaker: ExxonMobil sowed doubt about climate change?</a>

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After Exxon released its earning report, the White House responded and said it was 'outrageous' that a western oil company recorded such profits while ordinary Americans suffered.&nbsp;

"It’s outrageous that Exxon has posted a new record for Western oil company profits after the American people were forced to pay such high prices at the pump amid Putin’s invasion," said Abdullah Hassan, White House assistant press secretary.

Much of the criticism for oil companies such as Exxon stems from the fact that they use the profits to repurchase the shares, distribute dividends, instead of increasing the production capacity which could bring down the prices.&nbsp;

"The latest earnings reports make clear that oil companies have everything they need, including record profits and thousands of unused but approved permits, to increase production, but they’re instead choosing to plow those profits into padding the pockets of executives and shareholders while House Republicans manufacture excuse after excuse to shield them from any accountability," added&nbsp;Hassan.&nbsp;

With Exxon managing record profits, the debate regarding levying a windfall tax on the company has once again gained pace as critics demand more scrutiny of oil companies.&nbsp;

While the US is yet to take a call, the European Union imposed a windfall tax on the company in Q4 which reduced its earnings by $1.3 billion.&nbsp;

The Texas-based American company is currently suing European Union in a bid to block paying the tax.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/energy-giant-exxonmobil-sues-european-union-in-a-bid-to-block-new-windfall-tax-547579">Read more:&nbsp;Energy giant ExxonMobil sues European Union in a bid to block new windfall tax</a>

Notably, windfall tax is designed to tax the profits a company makes from an unprecedented event. In this case, the&nbsp;Russian invasion of Ukraine has led to an increase in energy prices which has driven up Exxon's profit numbers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Global oil major ExxonMobil Corp on Tuesday informed it reaped a record net profit of $56 billion last year as oil prices touched record highs due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

Global oil major ExxonMobil Corp on Tuesday informed it reaped a record net profit of $56 billion last year as oil prices touched record highs due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Exxon beat its own record of $45.2 billion in profits set way back in 2008 when oil prices hit $142 a barrel. Moreover, the figure was more than double the profit it managed in 2021 ($23 billion). "Overall earnings and cash flow were up pretty significantly year on year. So that came really from a combination of strong markets, strong throughput, strong production, and really good cost control," Kathryn Mikells, Exxon CFO was quoted as saying by Reuters. WATCH | WION Climate Trcaker: ExxonMobil sowed doubt about climate change? × After Exxon released its earning report, the White House responded and said it was 'outrageous' that a western oil company recorded such profits while ordinary Americans suffered. "It’s outrageous that Exxon has posted a new record for Western oil company profits after the American people were forced to pay such high prices at the pump amid Putin’s invasion," said Abdullah Hassan, White House assistant press secretary. Much of the criticism for oil companies such as Exxon stems from the fact that they use the profits to repurchase the shares, distribute dividends, instead of increasing the production capacity which could bring down the prices. "The latest earnings reports make clear that oil companies have everything they need, including record profits and thousands of unused but approved permits, to increase production, but they’re instead choosing to plow those profits into padding the pockets of executives and shareholders while House Republicans manufacture excuse after excuse to shield them from any accountability," added Hassan. With Exxon managing record profits, the debate regarding levying a windfall tax on the company has once again gained pace as critics demand more scrutiny of oil companies. While the US is yet to take a call, the European Union imposed a windfall tax on the company in Q4 which reduced its earnings by $1.3 billion. The Texas-based American company is currently suing European Union in a bid to block paying the tax. Read more: Energy giant ExxonMobil sues European Union in a bid to block new windfall tax Notably, windfall tax is designed to tax the profits a company makes from an unprecedented event. In this case, the Russian invasion of Ukraine has led to an increase in energy prices which has driven up Exxon's profit numbers. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

After Exxon posts record profits, White House calls it 'outrageous'

The latest round of Russian shelling has left four dead in Ukraine. As per Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Sunday three people were killed by the shelling in the southern city of Kherson, while the Kharkiv regional governor reported the death of one person due to another strike.

In his daily evening address, Zelensky said, "Today, the Russian army has been shelling Kherson atrociously all day."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Russia steps up offensive In Kherson, Kyiv

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The shelling which struck a Kharkiv hospital as per him left "two women, nurses, were wounded in the hospital". As per the regional administration, the dead include two men and one woman.

He added that "as of now, there are reports of six wounded and three dead."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-forces-repelled-attacks-near-blahodatne-russias-wagner-claims-control-557054">Ukrainian forces ‘repel attacks’ near Blahodatne, Russia’s Wagner claims control</a>

Kharkiv regional administration as per Reuters in a post on the app Telegram wrote that the "enemy shelling" resulted in the damage&nbsp;of a number of civil infrastructure objects including "the Kherson Regional Clinical Hospital, a school, a bus station, a post office, a bank, and residential buildings."

In Eastern Kharkiv, the strikes hit "a four-storey residential building". As per Oleh Synehubov, governor of Ukraine's second-largest city's regional military administration, "three victims received minor injuries. Unfortunately, an elderly woman died ... The building was partially destroyed."

Yet another strike in the Zaporizhzhia region of southern Ukraine, where, as per AFP fighting has intensified recently, Moscow-appointed officials said that Kyiv's attacks have struck a railway bridge, "killing people".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyiv-in-talks-with-western-allies-for-long-range-missiles-fighter-jets-ukrainian-official-556970">Kyiv in talks with Western allies for long-range missiles, fighter jets: Ukrainian official</a>

As&nbsp;per Yevgeny Balitsky, the Russian-installed head of the region, an attack from a Ukrainian HIMARS multiple rocket launcher was aimed at a railway bridge across the Molochnaya river.

The bridge is just north of Russia controlled city of Melitopol and was undergoing repairs. Balitsky said, "four people from the railways brigade were killed, five were injured."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The latest round of Russian shelling has left four dead in Ukraine. As per Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Sunday three people were killed by the shelling in the southern city of Kherson, while the Kharkiv regional governor reported the death of one person due to another strike.

The latest round of Russian shelling has left four dead in Ukraine. As per Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Sunday three people were killed by the shelling in the southern city of Kherson, while the Kharkiv regional governor reported the death of one person due to another strike. In his daily evening address, Zelensky said, "Today, the Russian army has been shelling Kherson atrociously all day." Watch | Gravitas: Russia steps up offensive In Kherson, Kyiv The shelling which struck a Kharkiv hospital as per him left "two women, nurses, were wounded in the hospital". As per the regional administration, the dead include two men and one woman. He added that "as of now, there are reports of six wounded and three dead." Also read | Ukrainian forces ‘repel attacks’ near Blahodatne, Russia’s Wagner claims control Kharkiv regional administration as per Reuters in a post on the app Telegram wrote that the "enemy shelling" resulted in the damage of a number of civil infrastructure objects including "the Kherson Regional Clinical Hospital, a school, a bus station, a post office, a bank, and residential buildings." In Eastern Kharkiv, the strikes hit "a four-storey residential building". As per Oleh Synehubov, governor of Ukraine's second-largest city's regional military administration, "three victims received minor injuries. Unfortunately, an elderly woman died ... The building was partially destroyed." Yet another strike in the Zaporizhzhia region of southern Ukraine, where, as per AFP fighting has intensified recently, Moscow-appointed officials said that Kyiv's attacks have struck a railway bridge, "killing people". Also read | Kyiv in talks with Western allies for long-range missiles, fighter jets: Ukrainian official As per Yevgeny Balitsky, the Russian-installed head of the region, an attack from a Ukrainian HIMARS multiple rocket launcher was aimed at a railway bridge across the Molochnaya river. The bridge is just north of Russia controlled city of Melitopol and was undergoing repairs. Balitsky said, "four people from the railways brigade were killed, five were injured." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia's latest 'atrocious' attacks on Kherson, Kharkiv kills four, including two nurses

The United States on Thursday (January 26) announced that it will impose additional sanctions against the Wagner Group while also designating it as a “significant transnational criminal organization” and accused them of widespread human rights abuses. This comes after the group has been engaging in battle in the eastern Ukrainian cities of Bakhmut and Soledar amid the conflict between Russia and Kyiv.&nbsp;

In a statement, the US Treasury Department said that in a bid to degrade Russia’s capacity to wage a war against Ukraine, it is imposing additional sanctions against six individuals and 12 entities. It also accused Wagner personnel of engaging in “an ongoing pattern of serious criminal activity, including mass executions, rape, child abductions, and physical abuse in the Central African Republic (CAR) and Mali.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-live-ukraine-army-claims-it-shot-47-of-55-russian-missiles-amid-wave-of-attacks-from-russia-556222">Russia-Ukraine war | Russian attacks across Ukraine kill 11, say emergency services</a>

This also comes after Washington along with its allies imposed a number of sanctions on Russia after its invasion of Ukraine nearly a year ago which also included Wagner. Furthermore, the US has also sanctioned Russia-based technology firm Joint Stock Company Terra Tech (Terra Tech) which is accused of supporting Wagner’s military operations.&nbsp;

Additionally, they have also imposed restrictions on China-based Changsha Tianyi Space Science and Technology Research Institute Co. LTD for allegedly providing Terra Tech with satellite imagery over locations in Ukraine. “These images were gathered in order to enable Wagner combat operations in Ukraine,” said the US Treasury.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tank-delivery-promises-by-the-west-perceived-as-direct-involvement-kremlin-556204">Russia criticises West for giving tanks to Ukraine, terms it ‘direct involvement’ in ongoing conflict</a>

“Today’s expanded sanctions on Wagner, as well as new sanctions on their associates and other companies enabling the Russian military complex, will further impede (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s ability to arm and equip his war machine,” said Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, in the statement. Meanwhile, the US State Department also designated entities and individuals with links to Wagner and its owner Yevgeny Prigozhin, on Thursday, reported Reuters.&nbsp; 
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The United States on Thursday (January 26) announced that it will impose additional sanctions against the Wagner Group while also designating it as a “significant transnational criminal organization” and accused them of widespread human rights abuses.

The United States on Thursday (January 26) announced that it will impose additional sanctions against the Wagner Group while also designating it as a “significant transnational criminal organization” and accused them of widespread human rights abuses. This comes after the group has been engaging in battle in the eastern Ukrainian cities of Bakhmut and Soledar amid the conflict between Russia and Kyiv. In a statement, the US Treasury Department said that in a bid to degrade Russia’s capacity to wage a war against Ukraine, it is imposing additional sanctions against six individuals and 12 entities. It also accused Wagner personnel of engaging in “an ongoing pattern of serious criminal activity, including mass executions, rape, child abductions, and physical abuse in the Central African Republic (CAR) and Mali.” ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war | Russian attacks across Ukraine kill 11, say emergency services This also comes after Washington along with its allies imposed a number of sanctions on Russia after its invasion of Ukraine nearly a year ago which also included Wagner. Furthermore, the US has also sanctioned Russia-based technology firm Joint Stock Company Terra Tech (Terra Tech) which is accused of supporting Wagner’s military operations. Additionally, they have also imposed restrictions on China-based Changsha Tianyi Space Science and Technology Research Institute Co. LTD for allegedly providing Terra Tech with satellite imagery over locations in Ukraine. “These images were gathered in order to enable Wagner combat operations in Ukraine,” said the US Treasury. ALSO READ | Russia criticises West for giving tanks to Ukraine, terms it ‘direct involvement’ in ongoing conflict “Today’s expanded sanctions on Wagner, as well as new sanctions on their associates and other companies enabling the Russian military complex, will further impede (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s ability to arm and equip his war machine,” said Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, in the statement. Meanwhile, the US State Department also designated entities and individuals with links to Wagner and its owner Yevgeny Prigozhin, on Thursday, reported Reuters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US designates Wagner group as ‘significant transnational criminal organization’, imposes harsher sanctions

In response to recent announcements by the West about its decision of sending tanks to Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia, the Kremlin&nbsp;on Thursday (January 26), said that these actions are perceived as “direct involvement” by Moscow. This comes a day after Germany confirmed that it will send 14 Leopard 2 tanks to Kyiv and also approve the re-export of Leopard tanks from other European countries.&nbsp;

Subsequently, United States President Joe Biden also announced that Washington will be sending 31 Abrams tanks to Ukraine. “European capitals and Washington constantly give statements that sending various types of weapons, including tanks, in no way means their involvement in hostilities. We strongly disagree with this,” said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, as per media reports.&nbsp;

He added, “In Moscow, this is perceived as direct involvement in the conflict and we see that this is growing.” This was the&nbsp;first that&nbsp;Kremlin was reacting to the announcements made on Wednesday by the US and its allies in Europe which have decided to send tanks as well as additional weapons to Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/extremely-dangerous-russia-warns-of-potential-escalation-as-germany-agrees-to-send-tanks-to-ukraine-555897">‘Extremely dangerous’: Russia warns of potential escalation as Germany agrees to send tanks to Ukraine</a>

Notably, the West, particularly Germany, had been reluctant to send its tanks to Kyiv. However, following mounting pressure and debate, the decision was announced on Wednesday.

During his speech, Biden also said that the tanks pose “no offensive threat” to Russia and they are needed by Ukraine to “improve their ability to manoeuvre in open terrain”.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, said, “We must always make it clear in everything we do that we are doing what is necessary and possible to support Ukraine, but that at the same time, we are preventing the war from escalating into a war between Russia and NATO.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-major-reversal-us-announces-it-will-send-31-m1-abrams-tanks-to-ukraine-555972">After Germany, US announces it will send 31 M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine</a>

Subsequently, while Berlin’s decision was praised by European countries, the Russian ambassador to Germany, Sergei Nechaev in a strongly worded statement, called it “extremely dangerous” and warned that it takes the conflict to “a new level of confrontation”. Furthermore, Nechayev also claimed that it will lead to the “death of not only Russian soldiers, but also the civilian population.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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In response to recent announcements by the West about its decision of sending tanks to Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia, the Kremlin on Thursday (January 26), said that these actions are perceived as “direct involvement” by Moscow.

In response to recent announcements by the West about its decision of sending tanks to Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia, the Kremlin on Thursday (January 26), said that these actions are perceived as “direct involvement” by Moscow. This comes a day after Germany confirmed that it will send 14 Leopard 2 tanks to Kyiv and also approve the re-export of Leopard tanks from other European countries. Subsequently, United States President Joe Biden also announced that Washington will be sending 31 Abrams tanks to Ukraine. “European capitals and Washington constantly give statements that sending various types of weapons, including tanks, in no way means their involvement in hostilities. We strongly disagree with this,” said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, as per media reports. He added, “In Moscow, this is perceived as direct involvement in the conflict and we see that this is growing.” This was the first that Kremlin was reacting to the announcements made on Wednesday by the US and its allies in Europe which have decided to send tanks as well as additional weapons to Ukraine. ALSO READ | ‘Extremely dangerous’: Russia warns of potential escalation as Germany agrees to send tanks to Ukraine Notably, the West, particularly Germany, had been reluctant to send its tanks to Kyiv. However, following mounting pressure and debate, the decision was announced on Wednesday. During his speech, Biden also said that the tanks pose “no offensive threat” to Russia and they are needed by Ukraine to “improve their ability to manoeuvre in open terrain”. Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, said, “We must always make it clear in everything we do that we are doing what is necessary and possible to support Ukraine, but that at the same time, we are preventing the war from escalating into a war between Russia and NATO.” ALSO READ | After Germany, US announces it will send 31 M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine Subsequently, while Berlin’s decision was praised by European countries, the Russian ambassador to Germany, Sergei Nechaev in a strongly worded statement, called it “extremely dangerous” and warned that it takes the conflict to “a new level of confrontation”. Furthermore, Nechayev also claimed that it will lead to the “death of not only Russian soldiers, but also the civilian population.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia criticises West for giving tanks to Ukraine, terms it ‘direct involvement’ in ongoing conflict

Poland has officially sought permission from Germany to transfer its Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine, said Polish Defence Minister Mariusz Błaszczak on Tuesday (January 24). This comes as Berlin is facing mounting pressure from European allies to send tanks to Kyiv amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. However, Warsaw has recently cranked up the pressure on Berlin to give its approval. The announcement comes a day after the&nbsp;Polish Prime Minister, Mateusz Morawiecki, said Warsaw will ask Germany for permission to re-export Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine.&nbsp;

“The Germans have already received our request for consent to the transfer of Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. I also appeal to the German side to join the coalition of countries supporting Ukraine with Leopard 2 tanks. This is our common cause, because it is about the security of the whole of Europe!”, said the&nbsp;Polish defence minister on Twitter.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Polish Prime Minister,&nbsp;Mateusz Morawiecki, said that the country will ask the European Union to compensate for the cost of the Leopard 2 tanks. "We will apply for reimbursement to the European Union, it will be another test of good will," said the PM while addressing a press conference, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-european-allies-plan-to-send-tanks-to-ukraine-what-we-know-so-far-552934">Explained: Are European allies planning to send tanks to Ukraine?</a> 
 
He added, "I hope that this answer from Germany will come quickly because the Germans are delaying, dodging, acting in a way that is difficult to understand."&nbsp;

However, Germany is yet to confirm if they have received such a request from Warsaw. Berlin whose&nbsp;approval is required for the re-export of Leopard tanks&nbsp;has been reluctant as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government believe&nbsp;their response can be viewed as an escalation or provocation by Russia.&nbsp;

Previously, Scholz said that sending tanks to Ukraine, which Kyiv has long sought, would have to be coordinated with the entire Western alliance, including the United States.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-wont-stand-in-the-way-of-polands-decision-to-supply-leopard-tanks-to-ukraine-554987">Germany 'won't stand in the way' of Poland's decision to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine</a> 
 
The request also comes after the German foreign minister, Annalena Baerbock, on Sunday, said that their government “if we were asked we would not stand in the way,” referring to the request for the Munich-based defence company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann manufactured Leopard 2 tanks.&nbsp;

While there are at least 2,000 such tanks across&nbsp;several European countries,&nbsp;since they are German-made it would require the authorisation of the country of origin.&nbsp;So far, Ukraine’s allies like Poland and the Czech Republic have only been willing to send the country Soviet-era T-72 tanks.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Poland has officially sought permission from Germany to transfer its Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine, said Polish Defence Minister Mariusz Błaszczak on Tuesday (January 24).

Poland has officially sought permission from Germany to transfer its Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine, said Polish Defence Minister Mariusz Błaszczak on Tuesday (January 24). This comes as Berlin is facing mounting pressure from European allies to send tanks to Kyiv amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. However, Warsaw has recently cranked up the pressure on Berlin to give its approval. The announcement comes a day after the Polish Prime Minister, Mateusz Morawiecki, said Warsaw will ask Germany for permission to re-export Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. “The Germans have already received our request for consent to the transfer of Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. I also appeal to the German side to join the coalition of countries supporting Ukraine with Leopard 2 tanks. This is our common cause, because it is about the security of the whole of Europe!”, said the Polish defence minister on Twitter. Meanwhile, the Polish Prime Minister, Mateusz Morawiecki, said that the country will ask the European Union to compensate for the cost of the Leopard 2 tanks. "We will apply for reimbursement to the European Union, it will be another test of good will," said the PM while addressing a press conference, as per Reuters. ALSO READ | Explained: Are European allies planning to send tanks to Ukraine? He added, "I hope that this answer from Germany will come quickly because the Germans are delaying, dodging, acting in a way that is difficult to understand." However, Germany is yet to confirm if they have received such a request from Warsaw. Berlin whose approval is required for the re-export of Leopard tanks has been reluctant as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government believe their response can be viewed as an escalation or provocation by Russia. Previously, Scholz said that sending tanks to Ukraine, which Kyiv has long sought, would have to be coordinated with the entire Western alliance, including the United States. ALSO READ | Germany 'won't stand in the way' of Poland's decision to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine The request also comes after the German foreign minister, Annalena Baerbock, on Sunday, said that their government “if we were asked we would not stand in the way,” referring to the request for the Munich-based defence company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann manufactured Leopard 2 tanks. While there are at least 2,000 such tanks across several European countries, since they are German-made it would require the authorisation of the country of origin. So far, Ukraine’s allies like Poland and the Czech Republic have only been willing to send the country Soviet-era T-72 tanks. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Poland officially requests Germany to send its Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine, will ask compensation from EU

Germany’s foreign minister on Sunday said that her government would not stand in the way of Poland sending its Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. For Ukrainian officials who have been calling on its western allies to supply them with&nbsp;german-made tanks for months, this could be the big breakthrough Kyiv has been waiting for. Berlin has till now stood in the way of sending the tanks itself or allowing other NATO nations to do so.

Replying to a question about Germany’s reaction to Poland possibly sending the Leopard 2 tanks without Germany’s permission, Annalena Baerbock, the German foreign minister said, "for the moment the question has not been asked, but if we were asked we would not stand in the way." Baerbock was in a conversation with France’s LCI TV.

Watch |&nbsp;World at War: Will United States &amp; Germany send their M1 Abram &amp; Leopard tanks?

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-at-war-will-united-states-germany-send-their-m1-abram-leopard-tanks-554787/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Berlin has been facing heavy pressure to let the tanks go to Ukraine. However, the country’s social democratic party is sceptical regarding military involvement. As per Reuters, the nation is also wary of sudden moves that could trigger a further escalation of Moscow’s aggression.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attitude-unacceptable-poland-hits-out-at-germanys-decision-not-to-supply-leopard-tanks-to-ukraine-554882">'Attitude unacceptable': Poland hits out at Germany's decision not to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine</a>

On Sunday, German defence minister Boris Pistorius said that he expects a decision soon. Talking to ARD Tv he said that his nation has other factors like the safety of their citizens to consider and that they would not make a hasty decision.

Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of the embattled nation of Ukraine, has for long been pleading for the heavily armoured tanks which he says would give Kyiv ground troops more mobility and protection against the expected heightened Russian offensive.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-allies-offer-more-weapons-to-kyiv-but-no-decision-on-tanks-yet-554651">Ukraine war: Allies offer more weapons to Kyiv, but Germany's reluctance stalls decision on tanks</a>

In a Sunday meeting with former UK PM Boris Johnson, he reiterated his pleas and said, "We need more weapons: tanks, aircraft, long-range missiles."

Russia on the other hand on Friday remarked that the supply of the tanks would not change the course of the conflict and would only add on to the problems of the Ukrainians.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Germany’s foreign minister on Sunday said that her government would not stand in the way of Poland sending its Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. For Ukrainian officials who have been calling on its western allies to supply them with german-made tanks for months, this could be the big breakthrough Kyiv has been waiting for.

Germany’s foreign minister on Sunday said that her government would not stand in the way of Poland sending its Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. For Ukrainian officials who have been calling on its western allies to supply them with german-made tanks for months, this could be the big breakthrough Kyiv has been waiting for. Berlin has till now stood in the way of sending the tanks itself or allowing other NATO nations to do so. Replying to a question about Germany’s reaction to Poland possibly sending the Leopard 2 tanks without Germany’s permission, Annalena Baerbock, the German foreign minister said, "for the moment the question has not been asked, but if we were asked we would not stand in the way." Baerbock was in a conversation with France’s LCI TV. Watch | World at War: Will United States & Germany send their M1 Abram & Leopard tanks? Berlin has been facing heavy pressure to let the tanks go to Ukraine. However, the country’s social democratic party is sceptical regarding military involvement. As per Reuters, the nation is also wary of sudden moves that could trigger a further escalation of Moscow’s aggression. Also read | 'Attitude unacceptable': Poland hits out at Germany's decision not to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine On Sunday, German defence minister Boris Pistorius said that he expects a decision soon. Talking to ARD Tv he said that his nation has other factors like the safety of their citizens to consider and that they would not make a hasty decision. Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of the embattled nation of Ukraine, has for long been pleading for the heavily armoured tanks which he says would give Kyiv ground troops more mobility and protection against the expected heightened Russian offensive. Also read | Ukraine war: Allies offer more weapons to Kyiv, but Germany's reluctance stalls decision on tanks In a Sunday meeting with former UK PM Boris Johnson, he reiterated his pleas and said, "We need more weapons: tanks, aircraft, long-range missiles." Russia on the other hand on Friday remarked that the supply of the tanks would not change the course of the conflict and would only add on to the problems of the Ukrainians. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Germany 'won't stand in the way' of Poland's decision to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine

Over the weekend, a corruption scandal emerged in Kyiv amid its ongoing conflict with Russia, leading to sacking of a senior government official from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s administration on Sunday (January 22). An internal audit was launched by Kyiv’s Ministry of Defence amid allegations of signing contracts for basic food items at inflated prices.&nbsp; Zelensky, during his nightly address, vowed to take steps to tackle the issue&nbsp;as officials are promoting national unity amid the ongoing invasion by Russia.&nbsp;

Which Ukrainian senior minister was dismissed?

In a statement on the messaging app Telegram, on Sunday, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced the dismissal of the Deputy Minister of Development of Communities, Territories and Infrastructure, Vasyl Lozynkiy, as per AFP. Furthermore, Zelensky during his address confirmed that he accepted the resignation of a deputy minister but did not mention who he was or what he was accused of. Notably, Lozynkiy was previously detained for allegedly accepting a bribe following an investigation into the case.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-wont-stand-in-the-way-of-polands-decision-to-supply-leopard-tanks-to-ukraine-554987">Germany 'won't stand in the way' of Poland's decision to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine&nbsp;</a>

Who is&nbsp;Lozynkiy and what was he accused of?

The 36-year-old, Lozynkiy, was the Deputy Minister of Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development of Ukraine who took office in 2020. He had been detained on Saturday by the country’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) for suspected embezzlement. According to NABU officials, Lozynkiy received $400,000 “to facilitate the conclusion of contracts for the purchase of equipment and generators at inflated prices”, reported AFP. &nbsp;

This comes as Kyiv is facing major power outages as Russia has reportedly&nbsp;been targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. The dismissal took place on Sunday by the country’s Cabinet of Ministers while Zelensky called this step a “signal to all whose behaviour violates the principle of justice,” as per the Kyiv Independent. &nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-pledges-crackdown-on-corruption-dismisses-deputy-minister-over-allegation-charges-554994">Ukraine pledges crackdown on corruption, dismisses deputy minister over allegations</a>

Ukrainian Ministry of Defence denies corruption allegations

Ukraine’s ministry of defence, on Sunday, denied allegations of what could possibly be the worst corruption scandal in the armed forces since the conflict began nearly a year ago. This comes a day after multiple media reports accused them of signing military contracts at “two to three times higher” than current rates for staple foods like eggs and vegetables, reported AFP. However, the ministry calling the reports “false” asserted that the purchases were made “in accordance with the procedure established by the law”.&nbsp;

According to the news website ZN.UA, Ukraine’s defence ministry allegedly contracted eggs for $0.46 which would otherwise cost around $0.19 at a shop. Additionally, the reports also suggest that they procured potatoes at more than double the retail price while also signing a contract worth 13 billion hryvnias (over $350 million) for 2023.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russian-army-holds-offensive-operations-in-zaporizhzhia-554772">Ukraine war: Russian army launches ‘offensive operations’ in Zaporizhzhia, claims ‘advances’</a>

Subsequently, the defence ministry said that they would launch an investigation into how this information is shared as well as the allegations as it “harms the interests of defence during a sensitive period”. The probe will reportedly be conducted by a parliamentary committee.&nbsp;

The internal audit would also be preceded by an emergency meeting with Ukraine’s Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov on Monday, said the ministry and assured that if violations among defence ministry officials are detected they will be held accountable as per the country's laws.&nbsp;

What Zelensky has said in light of these corruption allegations?

Addressing the country’s chronic problem of corruption, Zelensky has vowed&nbsp;that this week’s key decisions will be directed at uprooting it. Notably, Ukraine has witnessed a long history of rampant corruption and faced political uncertainty as a result, therefore when the incumbent president came into power in 2019 after a landslide victory he vowed to change the way Ukraine was governed.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/zelenskys-key-adviser-resigns-over-dnipro-remarks-553954">Zelensky's key adviser resigns over Dnipro remarks</a>

“I want this to be clear: there will be no return to what used to be in the past, to the way various people close to state institutions or those who spent their entire lives chasing a chair used to live”, said Zelensky, on Sunday, reported Reuters. He added, “This week will be the time for appropriate decisions. The decisions have already been prepared. I do not want to make them public at this time, but it will all be fair.”&nbsp;

In 2021, Ukraine’s corruption was ranked 122 on a list of&nbsp;180 countries in a report&nbsp;by Transparency International, a Germany-based non-profit. This&nbsp;has also hindered Kyiv’s bid to become a part of the European Union which had previously made anti-corruption reforms one of its key requirements to consider granting the country the candidate status last year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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Over the weekend, a corruption scandal emerged in Kyiv amid its ongoing conflict with Russia, leading to sacking of a senior government official from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s administration on Sunday (January 22).

Over the weekend, a corruption scandal emerged in Kyiv amid its ongoing conflict with Russia, leading to sacking of a senior government official from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s administration on Sunday (January 22). An internal audit was launched by Kyiv’s Ministry of Defence amid allegations of signing contracts for basic food items at inflated prices. Zelensky, during his nightly address, vowed to take steps to tackle the issue as officials are promoting national unity amid the ongoing invasion by Russia. Which Ukrainian senior minister was dismissed? In a statement on the messaging app Telegram, on Sunday, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced the dismissal of the Deputy Minister of Development of Communities, Territories and Infrastructure, Vasyl Lozynkiy, as per AFP. Furthermore, Zelensky during his address confirmed that he accepted the resignation of a deputy minister but did not mention who he was or what he was accused of. Notably, Lozynkiy was previously detained for allegedly accepting a bribe following an investigation into the case. ALSO READ | Germany 'won't stand in the way' of Poland's decision to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine Who is Lozynkiy and what was he accused of? The 36-year-old, Lozynkiy, was the Deputy Minister of Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development of Ukraine who took office in 2020. He had been detained on Saturday by the country’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) for suspected embezzlement. According to NABU officials, Lozynkiy received $400,000 “to facilitate the conclusion of contracts for the purchase of equipment and generators at inflated prices”, reported AFP. This comes as Kyiv is facing major power outages as Russia has reportedly been targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. The dismissal took place on Sunday by the country’s Cabinet of Ministers while Zelensky called this step a “signal to all whose behaviour violates the principle of justice,” as per the Kyiv Independent. ALSO WATCH | Ukraine pledges crackdown on corruption, dismisses deputy minister over allegations Ukrainian Ministry of Defence denies corruption allegations Ukraine’s ministry of defence, on Sunday, denied allegations of what could possibly be the worst corruption scandal in the armed forces since the conflict began nearly a year ago. This comes a day after multiple media reports accused them of signing military contracts at “two to three times higher” than current rates for staple foods like eggs and vegetables, reported AFP. However, the ministry calling the reports “false” asserted that the purchases were made “in accordance with the procedure established by the law”. According to the news website ZN.UA, Ukraine’s defence ministry allegedly contracted eggs for $0.46 which would otherwise cost around $0.19 at a shop. Additionally, the reports also suggest that they procured potatoes at more than double the retail price while also signing a contract worth 13 billion hryvnias (over $350 million) for 2023. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: Russian army launches ‘offensive operations’ in Zaporizhzhia, claims ‘advances’ Subsequently, the defence ministry said that they would launch an investigation into how this information is shared as well as the allegations as it “harms the interests of defence during a sensitive period”. The probe will reportedly be conducted by a parliamentary committee. The internal audit would also be preceded by an emergency meeting with Ukraine’s Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov on Monday, said the ministry and assured that if violations among defence ministry officials are detected they will be held accountable as per the country's laws. What Zelensky has said in light of these corruption allegations? Addressing the country’s chronic problem of corruption, Zelensky has vowed that this week’s key decisions will be directed at uprooting it. Notably, Ukraine has witnessed a long history of rampant corruption and faced political uncertainty as a result, therefore when the incumbent president came into power in 2019 after a landslide victory he vowed to change the way Ukraine was governed. ALSO WATCH | Zelensky's key adviser resigns over Dnipro remarks “I want this to be clear: there will be no return to what used to be in the past, to the way various people close to state institutions or those who spent their entire lives chasing a chair used to live”, said Zelensky, on Sunday, reported Reuters. He added, “This week will be the time for appropriate decisions. The decisions have already been prepared. I do not want to make them public at this time, but it will all be fair.” In 2021, Ukraine’s corruption was ranked 122 on a list of 180 countries in a report by Transparency International, a Germany-based non-profit. This has also hindered Kyiv’s bid to become a part of the European Union which had previously made anti-corruption reforms one of its key requirements to consider granting the country the candidate status last year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zelensky vows action against corruption in Ukraine: What we know so far

The head of a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-demand-new-constitution-for-afghanistan-at-rare-talks-195428">Taliban delegation</a> visiting Moscow said on Tuesday that Afghanistan peace talks with the United States last month had been a success, the Interfax news agency reported.

The United States held peace negotiations with the Taliban in Qatar that ended with signs of progress towards the withdrawal of thousands of foreign troops from Afghanistan and an end to more than 17 years of war.

The head of the delegation, who is in Russia for talks between Taliban militants and opposition politicians, was quoted as saying no agreement had been reached with Washington on a timeframe for a troop pullout, but that he hoped it would happen soon.

A top US general said that talks between the United States and Taliban were in their "very, very early" stages and the Afghan government, so far excluded from talks, would have to be part of the solution.

"I would characterize where we are in the process as very, very early in the process," US General Joseph Votel, head of the US military's Central Command, told a Senate hearing.

"We clearly recognize that they (Afghan government) have to be a part of this solution and must be in the negotiation aspects of this, we can't do that on their behalf."

Votel also said that the United States would need to continue to support Afghan security forces financially even if US troops withdrew from Afghanistan.

The head of a Taliban delegation visiting Moscow said on Tuesday that Afghanistan peace talks with the United States last month had been a success, the Interfax news agency reported.

The head of a Taliban delegation visiting Moscow said on Tuesday that Afghanistan peace talks with the United States last month had been a success, the Interfax news agency reported. The United States held peace negotiations with the Taliban in Qatar that ended with signs of progress towards the withdrawal of thousands of foreign troops from Afghanistan and an end to more than 17 years of war. The head of the delegation, who is in Russia for talks between Taliban militants and opposition politicians, was quoted as saying no agreement had been reached with Washington on a timeframe for a troop pullout, but that he hoped it would happen soon. A top US general said that talks between the United States and Taliban were in their "very, very early" stages and the Afghan government, so far excluded from talks, would have to be part of the solution. "I would characterize where we are in the process as very, very early in the process," US General Joseph Votel, head of the US military's Central Command, told a Senate hearing. "We clearly recognize that they (Afghan government) have to be a part of this solution and must be in the negotiation aspects of this, we can't do that on their behalf." Votel also said that the United States would need to continue to support Afghan security forces financially even if US troops withdrew from Afghanistan.

Morning Brief: Russia conducts joint air drills with Belarus, China's population falls drastically, and more

Russian and Belarusian flags have been banned from the Australian Open after Ukraine's ambassador complained about spotting the Russian flag in Melbourne Park. Vasyl Myroshnychenko, the Ukrainian envoy to Australia and New Zealand took to Twitter to make his case after a Russian flag was spotted during Ukrainian player Kateryna Baindl's first-round match.

Russian and Belarusian flags have been banned from the Australian Open after Ukraine's ambassador complained about spotting the Russian flag in Melbourne Park. Vasyl Myroshnychenko, the Ukrainian envoy to Australia and New Zealand took to Twitter to make his case after a Russian flag was spotted during Ukrainian player Kateryna Baindl's first-round match. "I strongly condemn the public display of the Russian flag during the game of the Ukrainian tennis player Kateryna Baindl at the Australian Open today. I call on Tennis Australia to immediately enforce its “neutral flag” policy.' I strongly condemn the public display of the Russian flag during the game of the Ukrainian tennis player Kateryna Baindl at the Australian Open today. I call on Tennis Australia to immediately enforce its “neutral flag” policy. @TennisAustralia @AustralianOpen pic.twitter.com/zw8pLN4FIF — Vasyl Myroshnychenko (@AmbVasyl) January 16, 2023 × After Myroshnychenko's post went viral, Tennis Australia quickly reacted and released a statement saying the flags from the two countries were outright banned now. "Our initial policy was that fans could bring them in but could not use them to cause disruption. Yesterday we had an incident where a flag was placed courtside," read the statement. "The ban is effective immediately. We will continue to work with the players and our fans to ensure the best possible environment to enjoy tennis.” WATCH | Gravitas: Wimbledon bans Russian and Belarusian players × After Tennis Australia's decision, the Russian embassy in Australia released a statement as well and slammed the tournament organisers for their partisan behaviour. "The decision to ban Russian and Belorussian flags from appearing onsite at the Australian Open is another example of unacceptable politicisation of sports," said the Russian embassy. "On top of already discriminating against Russian tennis players with its ‘neutral flag’ policy Tennis Australia now went further by making sure they can not be visibly supported by their fans," it added. ❗️The decision to ban 🇷🇺Russian and 🇧🇾Belorussian flags from appearing onsite at the @AustralianOpen is another example of unacceptable politicisation of sports🔗https://t.co/pno9ALImJE pic.twitter.com/wVpY9OCMZF — Russia in Australia (@RusEmbAU) January 17, 2023 × Notably, after Russia invaded Ukraine last year, Russian and Belarusian players were barred from participating in Wimbledon Grand Slam. Read more: Wimbledon defends ban on Russian players, confirms Covid vaccination not mandatory for participation "We believe we have made the most responsible decision possible in the circumstances. And that within the framework of the governance position, there`s no viable alternative to the decision we have taken in this truly exceptional and tragic situation," said Ian Hewitt, chairman, All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) at the time. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russian and Belarusian flags banned from Australian Open after Ukraine's complaint

Russia's budget has become too reliant on oil income to cover expenses, warned economists and said that if crude prices do not rise as anticipated this year, the government may be forced to increase taxes, showed a Reuters report.

Since early December, when Western countries led by the Group of Seven (G7) set a $60 price cap on Russian oil exports to limit Moscow's ability to finance the Ukraine war, the price of Urals oil, Moscow's largest export, has fallen more than 20 per cent.

Watch |&nbsp;UK to supply battle tanks to Ukraine amid Russian strikes

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The government's 2023 budget is based on Urals price of a touch over $70 per barrel, but prices are now trading closer to $50 per barrel, which is a concern for Moscow.

Russia has relied on China and India, the world's largest and third-largest importers, to fill the price ceiling gap due to Western sanctions and the EU embargo to make it tougher for Moscow to export oil.

"The growing dependence of the budget on oil raises concerns," Alfa Bank said in a note that warned a decline in revenue from gas and oil product exports "looms on the horizon."

According to analysts, the oil price needed to balance the budget soared from $67 to $101 a barrel in 2022 as the government's spending increased by more than a quarter, partly to pay for its military presence in Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-european-allies-plan-to-send-tanks-to-ukraine-what-we-know-so-far-552934">Explained: Are European allies planning to send tanks to Ukraine?</a>

The actual price of oil required to balance the books might be as high as $115 per barrel when the $27.5 billion in dividends and one-time taxes paid by state-owned energy behemoth Gazprom last year are taken into account.

According to Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, Russia's budget deficit for the previous fiscal year was $49 billion, or 2.3 per cent of the country's gross domestic product (GDP).

As the price cap reduces Russia's export revenues, the deficit may rise to 2 per cent again in 2023.

Tax hikes?

In December, Alexei Sazanov, the deputy finance minister, warned that there would be another tax increase and that the administration would continue exploring alternative tax bases in 2023.

Which industries would see tax increases and how much of the burden would be placed on the populace is still being determined, said Sazanov and stated that the income tax, profit tax, and VAT rates would not change, but other industries might pay more in taxes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-may-change-age-range-of-conscription-putin-supports-idea-552743">Russia plans to increase age range of conscription, Putin ‘supports’ idea</a>

"Detailed, substantive analysis allows us to still find resource sectors where high margins are formed and where it is possible to increase the fiscal burden without harming the operational and investment activities of companies," said the Deputy Finance Minister.

"When there is a big gap between the actual price (of oil) and the balancing price, it cannot be sustainably covered by borrowing," said Natalia Orlova, chief economist at Alfa Bank.

"Some measures are needed to adjust fiscal policy, cutting spending or looking for additional revenues," the Chief Economist added.

She noted that spending cuts are out of the question because President Vladimir Putin is anticipated to run for an unprecedented fifth term in the 2024 presidential election, and regional elections will be held later this year.

As Russia's 10-month war operations in Ukraine continue, the government has hiked taxes significantly on the oil and gas business for 2023 through 2025, the largest increase of this kind in its history.

According to a Reuters budget study, Moscow will spend roughly a third of its budget, or 9.4 trillion roubles ($140 billion), on defence and security this year alone.

(With inputs from agencies)

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This leaves less money for health, education, and research.

Russia's budget has become too reliant on oil income to cover expenses, warned economists and said that if crude prices do not rise as anticipated this year, the government may be forced to increase taxes, showed a Reuters report.

Russia's budget has become too reliant on oil income to cover expenses, warned economists and said that if crude prices do not rise as anticipated this year, the government may be forced to increase taxes, showed a Reuters report. Since early December, when Western countries led by the Group of Seven (G7) set a $60 price cap on Russian oil exports to limit Moscow's ability to finance the Ukraine war, the price of Urals oil, Moscow's largest export, has fallen more than 20 per cent. Watch | UK to supply battle tanks to Ukraine amid Russian strikes The government's 2023 budget is based on Urals price of a touch over $70 per barrel, but prices are now trading closer to $50 per barrel, which is a concern for Moscow. Russia has relied on China and India, the world's largest and third-largest importers, to fill the price ceiling gap due to Western sanctions and the EU embargo to make it tougher for Moscow to export oil. "The growing dependence of the budget on oil raises concerns," Alfa Bank said in a note that warned a decline in revenue from gas and oil product exports "looms on the horizon." According to analysts, the oil price needed to balance the budget soared from $67 to $101 a barrel in 2022 as the government's spending increased by more than a quarter, partly to pay for its military presence in Ukraine. Also read | Explained: Are European allies planning to send tanks to Ukraine? The actual price of oil required to balance the books might be as high as $115 per barrel when the $27.5 billion in dividends and one-time taxes paid by state-owned energy behemoth Gazprom last year are taken into account. According to Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, Russia's budget deficit for the previous fiscal year was $49 billion, or 2.3 per cent of the country's gross domestic product (GDP). As the price cap reduces Russia's export revenues, the deficit may rise to 2 per cent again in 2023. Tax hikes? In December, Alexei Sazanov, the deputy finance minister, warned that there would be another tax increase and that the administration would continue exploring alternative tax bases in 2023. Which industries would see tax increases and how much of the burden would be placed on the populace is still being determined, said Sazanov and stated that the income tax, profit tax, and VAT rates would not change, but other industries might pay more in taxes. Also read | Russia plans to increase age range of conscription, Putin ‘supports’ idea "Detailed, substantive analysis allows us to still find resource sectors where high margins are formed and where it is possible to increase the fiscal burden without harming the operational and investment activities of companies," said the Deputy Finance Minister. "When there is a big gap between the actual price (of oil) and the balancing price, it cannot be sustainably covered by borrowing," said Natalia Orlova, chief economist at Alfa Bank. "Some measures are needed to adjust fiscal policy, cutting spending or looking for additional revenues," the Chief Economist added. She noted that spending cuts are out of the question because President Vladimir Putin is anticipated to run for an unprecedented fifth term in the 2024 presidential election, and regional elections will be held later this year. As Russia's 10-month war operations in Ukraine continue, the government has hiked taxes significantly on the oil and gas business for 2023 through 2025, the largest increase of this kind in its history. According to a Reuters budget study, Moscow will spend roughly a third of its budget, or 9.4 trillion roubles ($140 billion), on defence and security this year alone. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. This leaves less money for health, education, and research.

War, oil price cap to weigh on Russia's budget; Moscow likely to hike tax

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. 
 
The Ukrainian body dealing with prisoners has alleged that the Russian side cancelled a scheduled prisoner exchange between the two warring nations at the last moment on Saturday.&nbsp;Taking to Telegram, the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War said, “Another round of exchange of prisoners was planned today with the Russian side,” adding that the exchange “was cancelled at the last moment at the initiative of the Russian side.”

Watch |&nbsp;War in Ukraine: Russia launches fresh attack on Ukrainian cities, claims victory in Soledar

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Reuters reportedly tried to reach the office of Russian Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova, however, Moscow did not comment on Ukraine’s claim.

Previously, the two nations have conducted multiple prisoner swaps, exchanging hundreds of Prisoners of War&nbsp;(PoW) captured during this conflict, which has already dragged on into its 11th month.&nbsp;The most recent one as per Reuters was on January 8.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-missiles-hit-ukrainian-capital-more-attacks-expected-elsewhere-552596">Russian missiles strike several Ukrainian cities, 5 killed, 27 injured</a>

On Saturday, Russian Human Rights Commissioner Moskalkova stated on the messaging app Telegram that Russian soldiers had reported instances of abuse at the hands of the Ukrainian side while in their custody. However, the claims are yet to be verified.

Ukraine, too, had during a recent meeting between the two sides voiced concerns over alleged Russian violations of the Geneva Convention in its treatment of Ukrainian POWs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-soledar-city-controlled-by-kyiv-fight-ongoing-says-report-552635">Ukraine war: Soledar city 'controlled' by Kyiv, fighting ongoing, says report</a>

On Wednesday, talking to the press, Mirjana Spoljaric, the new head of the International Committee of the Red Cross, said she had been “speaking with Russian counterparts”. This comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has continuously criticised the organisation in recent months for not pushing hard enough to gain access to Ukrainian troops captured by Russian forces.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. The Ukrainian body dealing with prisoners has alleged that the Russian side cancelled a scheduled prisoner exchange between the two warring nations at the last moment on Saturday. Taking to Telegram, the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War said, “Another round of exchange of prisoners was planned today with the Russian side,” adding that the exchange “was cancelled at the last moment at the initiative of the Russian side.” Watch | War in Ukraine: Russia launches fresh attack on Ukrainian cities, claims victory in Soledar Reuters reportedly tried to reach the office of Russian Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova, however, Moscow did not comment on Ukraine’s claim. Previously, the two nations have conducted multiple prisoner swaps, exchanging hundreds of Prisoners of War (PoW) captured during this conflict, which has already dragged on into its 11th month. The most recent one as per Reuters was on January 8. Also read | Russian missiles strike several Ukrainian cities, 5 killed, 27 injured On Saturday, Russian Human Rights Commissioner Moskalkova stated on the messaging app Telegram that Russian soldiers had reported instances of abuse at the hands of the Ukrainian side while in their custody. However, the claims are yet to be verified. Ukraine, too, had during a recent meeting between the two sides voiced concerns over alleged Russian violations of the Geneva Convention in its treatment of Ukrainian POWs. Also read | Ukraine war: Soledar city 'controlled' by Kyiv, fighting ongoing, says report On Wednesday, talking to the press, Mirjana Spoljaric, the new head of the International Committee of the Red Cross, said she had been “speaking with Russian counterparts”. This comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has continuously criticised the organisation in recent months for not pushing hard enough to gain access to Ukrainian troops captured by Russian forces. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine alleges Russia cancelled scheduled prisoner exchange at the last minute

A little more than three months after putting&nbsp;Sergey Surovikin in charge&nbsp;of the Ukraine war, Russian President Vladimir Putin has&nbsp;demoted him and announced a replacement.&nbsp;

General&nbsp;Valery Gerasimov will take&nbsp;Surovikin's position who has been nicknamed&nbsp;'General Armageddon' in military circles. The country's defence ministry made the announcement on its official Telegram account.&nbsp;

"Army General Valery Gerasimov, Chief of the General Staff of the Russian armed forces, has been appointed Commander of the Joint Grouping of Troops (Forces)."

Gerasimov will be working alongside&nbsp;two other generals, Oleg&nbsp;Salyukov and Alexei Kim. Meanwhile,&nbsp;Surovikin will serve as&nbsp;Gerasimov's deputy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While most experts see the re-shuffling of the pack as a panic measure, Moscow said the appointment was aimed at increasing close cooperation between the troops.&nbsp;

"The increase in the level of leadership of the special operation is linked to the expansion of the scale of the tasks at hand and the need to organise closer interaction between troops."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-russias-ruthless-general-who-is-now-in-charge-of-the-ukraine-war-524577">WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Russia's 'ruthless' general who is now in-charge of the Ukraine war</a>

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Notably,&nbsp;Surovikin was given the charge of the war publicly&nbsp;in October last year. Not much information is available about his predecessor but many believe&nbsp;it was General Alexander Dvornikov -&nbsp;also a general of the Second Chechen War and Russian commander in Syria that took the reins of the war in its initial days.&nbsp;

After&nbsp;Surovikin took over, Russia pivoted on its conventional war strategy. Instead of using tanks and the infantry to make the gains,&nbsp;Surovikin employed the extensive use of drones and missile attacks to make progress.&nbsp;

In the short term, cities across Ukraine went black but the gains were short-lived. One month into his tenure, Kremlin was forced to recall its troops from the southern city of Kherson, the only regional capital it held.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-repeated-setbacks-russia-appoints-new-general-to-lead-ukraine-invasion-523597">Read more: After repeated setbacks, Russia appoints new general to lead Ukraine invasion</a>

(With inputs from agencies)

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A little more than three months after putting Sergey Surovikin in charge of the Ukraine war, Russian President Vladimir Putin has demoted him and announced a replacement.

A little more than three months after putting Sergey Surovikin in charge of the Ukraine war, Russian President Vladimir Putin has demoted him and announced a replacement. General Valery Gerasimov will take Surovikin's position who has been nicknamed 'General Armageddon' in military circles. The country's defence ministry made the announcement on its official Telegram account. "Army General Valery Gerasimov, Chief of the General Staff of the Russian armed forces, has been appointed Commander of the Joint Grouping of Troops (Forces)." Gerasimov will be working alongside two other generals, Oleg Salyukov and Alexei Kim. Meanwhile, Surovikin will serve as Gerasimov's deputy. While most experts see the re-shuffling of the pack as a panic measure, Moscow said the appointment was aimed at increasing close cooperation between the troops. "The increase in the level of leadership of the special operation is linked to the expansion of the scale of the tasks at hand and the need to organise closer interaction between troops." WATCH | Gravitas: Russia's 'ruthless' general who is now in-charge of the Ukraine war × Notably, Surovikin was given the charge of the war publicly in October last year. Not much information is available about his predecessor but many believe it was General Alexander Dvornikov - also a general of the Second Chechen War and Russian commander in Syria that took the reins of the war in its initial days. After Surovikin took over, Russia pivoted on its conventional war strategy. Instead of using tanks and the infantry to make the gains, Surovikin employed the extensive use of drones and missile attacks to make progress. In the short term, cities across Ukraine went black but the gains were short-lived. One month into his tenure, Kremlin was forced to recall its troops from the southern city of Kherson, the only regional capital it held. Read more: After repeated setbacks, Russia appoints new general to lead Ukraine invasion (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Putin appoints new commander to lead Ukraine invasion, demoting 'General Armageddon'

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;

Amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the Moscow-based mercenary group, Wagner, on Tuesday (January 10) claimed that their forces have taken over the eastern Ukrainian city of Soledar, near Bakhmut. Notably, the cities have witnessed some of the most intense fighting&nbsp;between the two sides in the past couple of months as Russia supposedly views Soledar as key to the nearby strategic city of Bakhmut in the larger eastern Ukraine’s Donbas region. If the claims made by the Russian group are confirmed it would mark the first major battlefield success for the Kremlin in months.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Ukraine had earlier said that its soldiers are holding their ground in Soledar and “heavy fighting is continuing”, said Kyiv’s Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar. As the battle for Soledar rages on in sub-zero temperatures, on Wednesday (January 11) there have been several claims and counterclaims made in the context of the Ukrainian city.&nbsp;

What has the Russia-based mercenary group claimed?

Russian mercenary group Wagner’s founder, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-ally-yevgeny-prigozhin-admits-to-interfering-in-us-elections-532005">Yevgeny Prigozhin</a>, on Tuesday took to the messaging app Telegram and released an audio message which claims that they have, “taken the whole territory of Soledar under control”, said media reports. He added that the Ukrainian troops are surrounded at the centre of Soledar and they are in the midst of “urban warfare” and “The number of captives will be announced tomorrow”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russias-mercenary-group-wagner-claims-to-control-soledar-city-551459">Russia's mercenary group Wagner claims to control Soledar; Ukraine denies it</a>

Subsequently, Prigozhin also posted an image of himself surrounded by Wagner fighters in what appears to be a salt mine in Soledar. This was following a United States official saying that the businessman is eyeing the salt and gypsum from the mines in the Ukrainian city which are believed to be extended over 100 miles underground.&nbsp;<meta charset="utf-8" />

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.&nbsp;

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🇷🇺🇺🇦"Wagner" took control of the entire territory of Soledar. A cauldron has been formed in the center of the city in which urban battles are being fought. The number of prisoners will be announced tommorow"- Yegveniy Prigozhin <a href="https://t.co/NCP4WvPwNs">pic.twitter.com/NCP4WvPwNs</a>
— AZ 🛰🌏🌍🌎 (@AZgeopolitics) <a href="https://twitter.com/AZgeopolitics/status/1612928510708027392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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This comes hours after Russia’s “private military company” as Moscow’s news agency Tass calls Wagner, said they are fighting “heavy bloody battles” on the western outskirts of the Soledar. The statement by the group’s founder and ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin added, “The Armed Forces of Ukraine are honourably defending the territory of Soledar.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-troops-to-begin-training-on-patriot-missiles-in-us-next-week-pentagon-confirms-551346">Ukrainian troops to begin training on Patriot missiles in US next week, Pentagon confirms</a>

He also went on to dismiss the reports that alleged that the Ukrainian forces were falling back from the front lines en masse in Soledar. “Let’s be honest with ourselves. The Ukrainian army is bravely fighting for Bakhmut and Soledar. Reports of their mass desertion are not true,” said the Wagner group founder as mentioned by his press office on Telegram.&nbsp;

Who is Yevgeny Prigozhin?

The founder of Wagner, Prigozhin, rose to prominence from a St Petersburg restaurant owner in Russia to being known as “Putin’s chef”. Notably, as recently as earlier this year, he denied his role in creating Wagner but now he has become a vocal critic of top Russian generals saying that his troops are more effective than the country’s army.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, Prigozhin also said that Soledar is being “exclusively” stormed by Wagner and their units are fighting for the Ukrainian city’s administrative building. “I want to underline once more that no one except for Wagner took part in the storm of Soledar”, said the head of Wagner, late Tuesday, as per media reports. &nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-mercenaries-claim-to-capture-ukraines-soledar-amid-fierce-fighting-551339">Russian mercenaries claim to capture Ukraine's Soledar amid fierce fighting</a>

Additionally,&nbsp;reports suggest that the company’s public persona has grown since the Russian invasion of Kyiv began last year and allege that&nbsp;the businessman has <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-us-says-russian-military-company-wagner-trying-to-recruit-over-1500-felons-517884">recruited Moscow’s prisoners</a> with the promise of amnesty upon their return from Ukraine.&nbsp;

The report by the Guardian citing an official speaking on the condition of anonymity also said, “there’s a realistic possibility that Wagner personnel now make up a quarter or more of Russian combatants”. However, the official also&nbsp;added that&nbsp;despite their military personnel being concentrated in Bakhmut, their impact is limited since they are so slow that sometimes it takes them “two weeks to take a single house”.&nbsp;

How has Russia addressed these claims?

Additionally, on Wednesday (January 11), a report by Tass citing the Russian proxy official in Donetsk, Denis Pushilin, said “republic’s cities of Soledar and Artemovsk were about to be liberated. Intense fighting is under way in those areas,” he added. Notably, he also admitted on Russian state TV that this came “at a very high price” and the Ukrainian forces are “still resisting”, reported AFP.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/war-in-ukraine-battle-centers-on-eastern-town-of-soledar-fighting-intensifies-551148">War in Ukraine: Battle centers on Eastern town of Soledar, fighting intensifies</a>

“Wagner units took control of the entire territory of Soledar. A cauldron has been formed in the centre of the city in which urban fighting is going on”, said the head of Wagner, late Tuesday, as per Russian media reports. Subsequently, Reuters citing the Russian state media RIA said that the Wagner Group has taken over the Soledar’s salt mines after “fierce fighting”, which are located in the town’s suburbs.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov,&nbsp;hours after Wagner claimed victory in Soledar, on Wednesday, said "Let's not rush. Let's wait for official announcements". He also went on to acknowledge that there have been "positive dynamic advances" in the Ukrainian city but also the high cost in terms of the soldiers'&nbsp;lives that were lost during the operation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/village-in-east-ukraine-near-bakhmut-captured-by-russia-claim-separatists-550780">Village in east Ukraine near Bakhmut captured by Russia, claim separatists</a>

"Although tactical successes are also very important, they come at a high price, at the cost of the fantastic heroism of our fighters, and therefore this is another reason to be proud of our guys on the spot who spare neither life nor health to give us these tactical successes," said Peskov.&nbsp;

What has Ukraine said about these claims?

In a statement, on Wednesday, the strategic communications branch of the Ukrainian military addressed Wagner’s claims and said, “Soledar was, is and will be Ukrainian”. It added that the images taken by the Russian mercenary group and that Moscow’s media said were taken in Soledar had been taken elsewhere, reported AFP.&nbsp;

Additionally, the Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne, on early Wednesday, citing Serhiy Cherevatyi, spokesman for Ukraine's eastern forces denied that Russia has taken over Soledar is under Russian control and to wait for further details from the Army’s General Staff, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-does-zelensky-invoke-battles-of-saratoga-and-world-war-ii-in-the-us-congress-speech-545651">Explained: Why does Zelensky invoke Battles of Saratoga and World War II in the US Congress speech?</a> 
 
In a recent development, he&nbsp;said, "The town is not under the control of the Russian Federation. There are fierce battles going on now...There is a complicated situation there," said media reports.&nbsp;Furthermore, the Ukrainian&nbsp;spokesperson added,&nbsp;that they are working on how to stabilise the situation and that the intensity of the battles near&nbsp;Bakhmut can be compared to World War Two.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, addressing Soledar during his nightly address on Monday had said that the troops were facing “new and even tougher assaults” and that, “Everything is completely destroyed.” As of late Tuesday, Wagner said that the fight is still going on in the town centre while the Ukrainian government had said that its troops were still standing their ground.&nbsp;

On the same day, Ukrainian Deputy Defence Minister, Hanna Maliar, said that fight in Soledar is still raging and the Russians have sustained some heavy losses. She added, “The approaches to our positions are simply strewn with the bodies of dead enemy fighters. Our fighters are bravely holding the defence.” &nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-putin-orders-ceasefire-in-ukraine-on-january-6-7-549807">Russia-Ukraine war: Putin offers Orthodox Christmas truce, Ukraine rejects it as 'hypocrisy'</a>

The Russian forces in Soledar are trying to advance in three areas in the aforementioned region which is around Bakhmut, further south around Avdiivka and north around Lyman, said Ukraine’s general staff, on Tuesday. Meanwhile, highlighting the extent of the Russian assault Oleksiy Arestovych, adviser to the Ukrainian president, said that in the span of 24 hours, Moscow has launched at least 281 attacks along the Bakhmut axis.&nbsp;

US-based organisation and UK’s defence ministry weigh in on the situation in Soledar

On Wednesday, the US-based policy research organisation, Institute for the Study of War (ISW), contradicting Wagner’s claims said, “Russian forces have not captured the entirety of Soledar despite false Russian claims that the city has fallen and that Bakhmut risks imminent encirclement.”&nbsp;

Additionally, the ISW in a thread on Twitter said, “Wagner Group financier Yevgeny Prigozhin refuted these claims, remarking that Wagner Group forces are still fighting against concerted Ukrainian resistance.”&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/war-in-ukraine-attacks-continue-in-ukraine-despite-russias-cease-fire-550371">War in Ukraine: Attacks continue in Ukraine despite Russia's cease-fire</a>

They added, “The Study of War has only observed visual confirmation of Wagner Group forces in central Soledar as of January 10.” The US-based organisation, on Wednesday, also said that even if they did take “most generous Russian claims at face value, the capture of Soledar would not portend an immediate encirclement of Bakhmut.”&nbsp;

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2/ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wagner?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wagner</a> Group financier Yevgeny <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Prigozhin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Prigozhin</a> refuted these claims, remarking that Wagner Group forces are still fighting against concerted Ukrainian resistance. <a href="https://twitter.com/TheStudyofWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheStudyofWar</a> has only observed visual confirmation of Wagner Group forces in central Soledar as of January 10.
— ISW (@TheStudyofWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheStudyofWar/status/1613006514184241157?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the United Kingdom Ministry of Defence (MoD), on Tuesday during its daily briefing speculated that parts of Soledar are under Russian control. “Part of the fighting has focused on entrances to the 200 km-long disused salt mine tunnels which run underneath the district,” said MoD. The ministry also said that it is likely both sides are concerned about the other using these tunnels for&nbsp;“infiltration behind their lines”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-likely-in-control-of-ukraines-soledar-town-claims-uk-551129">Russia likely in ‘control’ of Ukraine’s Soledar town, claims UK</a>

It also noted that these tunnels can accommodate troops and armoured vehicles which is why they have caught the attention of&nbsp;Wagner. The UK MoD had also said how the Russian efforts in Soledar over the past four days appear to be aimed at surrounding Bakhmut, however, the scenario was believed to be unlikely at the time.&nbsp;

Why is Soledar so important to Russia?

The Ukrainian city is approximately 15 km away from Bakhmut, which has taken centre stage in the conflict in recent months, as the capture of the city is now Moscow’s main military objective with almost a year since they began their “special military operation” in Kyiv.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-we-know-about-ukraines-deadliest-attack-on-russia-since-the-conflict-began-549499">Explained: What we know about Ukraine’s deadliest attack on Russia since the conflict began</a>

Russia has reportedly faced constant setbacks in eastern Ukraine as Kyiv’s forces have more or less managed to not only defend but also retaliate against Moscow’s attack and a prominent example of that was marked by the attack in Makiivka. However, if Russia has captured Soledar as it claims to have, the city’s huge salt mines would add to not only Moscow’s commercial but military and symbolic value for the country.&nbsp;

Additionally, Soledar is also being seen as an important gateway whose capture could pave the way for further gains in the Donbas region.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nato-chief-we-shouldnt-underestimate-russia-551140">NATO Chief: 'We shouldn't underestimate Russia'</a> 
 
Reports suggest Prigozhin has been trying to capture Bakhmut and Soledar for months now. On early Wednesday, smoke could be seen rising over the city from its outskirts while the incoming artillery fires were relentless, said a report by Reuters. It added&nbsp;that many residents were seen fleeing the town.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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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. Amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the Moscow-based mercenary group, Wagner, on Tuesday (January 10) claimed that their forces have taken over the eastern Ukrainian city of Soledar, near Bakhmut. Notably, the cities have witnessed some of the most intense fighting between the two sides in the past couple of months as Russia supposedly views Soledar as key to the nearby strategic city of Bakhmut in the larger eastern Ukraine’s Donbas region. If the claims made by the Russian group are confirmed it would mark the first major battlefield success for the Kremlin in months. On the other hand, Ukraine had earlier said that its soldiers are holding their ground in Soledar and “heavy fighting is continuing”, said Kyiv’s Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar. As the battle for Soledar rages on in sub-zero temperatures, on Wednesday (January 11) there have been several claims and counterclaims made in the context of the Ukrainian city. What has the Russia-based mercenary group claimed? Russian mercenary group Wagner’s founder, Yevgeny Prigozhin, on Tuesday took to the messaging app Telegram and released an audio message which claims that they have, “taken the whole territory of Soledar under control”, said media reports. He added that the Ukrainian troops are surrounded at the centre of Soledar and they are in the midst of “urban warfare” and “The number of captives will be announced tomorrow”. ALSO READ | Russia's mercenary group Wagner claims to control Soledar; Ukraine denies it Subsequently, Prigozhin also posted an image of himself surrounded by Wagner fighters in what appears to be a salt mine in Soledar. This was following a United States official saying that the businessman is eyeing the salt and gypsum from the mines in the Ukrainian city which are believed to be extended over 100 miles underground. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. 🇷🇺🇺🇦"Wagner" took control of the entire territory of Soledar. A cauldron has been formed in the center of the city in which urban battles are being fought. The number of prisoners will be announced tommorow"- Yegveniy Prigozhin pic.twitter.com/NCP4WvPwNs — AZ 🛰🌏🌍🌎 (@AZgeopolitics) January 10, 2023 × This comes hours after Russia’s “private military company” as Moscow’s news agency Tass calls Wagner, said they are fighting “heavy bloody battles” on the western outskirts of the Soledar. The statement by the group’s founder and ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin added, “The Armed Forces of Ukraine are honourably defending the territory of Soledar.” ALSO READ | Ukrainian troops to begin training on Patriot missiles in US next week, Pentagon confirms He also went on to dismiss the reports that alleged that the Ukrainian forces were falling back from the front lines en masse in Soledar. “Let’s be honest with ourselves. The Ukrainian army is bravely fighting for Bakhmut and Soledar. Reports of their mass desertion are not true,” said the Wagner group founder as mentioned by his press office on Telegram. Who is Yevgeny Prigozhin? The founder of Wagner, Prigozhin, rose to prominence from a St Petersburg restaurant owner in Russia to being known as “Putin’s chef”. Notably, as recently as earlier this year, he denied his role in creating Wagner but now he has become a vocal critic of top Russian generals saying that his troops are more effective than the country’s army. Earlier this week, Prigozhin also said that Soledar is being “exclusively” stormed by Wagner and their units are fighting for the Ukrainian city’s administrative building. “I want to underline once more that no one except for Wagner took part in the storm of Soledar”, said the head of Wagner, late Tuesday, as per media reports. ALSO WATCH | Russian mercenaries claim to capture Ukraine's Soledar amid fierce fighting Additionally, reports suggest that the company’s public persona has grown since the Russian invasion of Kyiv began last year and allege that the businessman has recruited Moscow’s prisoners with the promise of amnesty upon their return from Ukraine. The report by the Guardian citing an official speaking on the condition of anonymity also said, “there’s a realistic possibility that Wagner personnel now make up a quarter or more of Russian combatants”. However, the official also added that despite their military personnel being concentrated in Bakhmut, their impact is limited since they are so slow that sometimes it takes them “two weeks to take a single house”. How has Russia addressed these claims? Additionally, on Wednesday (January 11), a report by Tass citing the Russian proxy official in Donetsk, Denis Pushilin, said “republic’s cities of Soledar and Artemovsk were about to be liberated. Intense fighting is under way in those areas,” he added. Notably, he also admitted on Russian state TV that this came “at a very high price” and the Ukrainian forces are “still resisting”, reported AFP. ALSO WATCH | War in Ukraine: Battle centers on Eastern town of Soledar, fighting intensifies “Wagner units took control of the entire territory of Soledar. A cauldron has been formed in the centre of the city in which urban fighting is going on”, said the head of Wagner, late Tuesday, as per Russian media reports. Subsequently, Reuters citing the Russian state media RIA said that the Wagner Group has taken over the Soledar’s salt mines after “fierce fighting”, which are located in the town’s suburbs. Meanwhile, the Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, hours after Wagner claimed victory in Soledar, on Wednesday, said "Let's not rush. Let's wait for official announcements". He also went on to acknowledge that there have been "positive dynamic advances" in the Ukrainian city but also the high cost in terms of the soldiers' lives that were lost during the operation. ALSO READ | Village in east Ukraine near Bakhmut captured by Russia, claim separatists "Although tactical successes are also very important, they come at a high price, at the cost of the fantastic heroism of our fighters, and therefore this is another reason to be proud of our guys on the spot who spare neither life nor health to give us these tactical successes," said Peskov. What has Ukraine said about these claims? In a statement, on Wednesday, the strategic communications branch of the Ukrainian military addressed Wagner’s claims and said, “Soledar was, is and will be Ukrainian”. It added that the images taken by the Russian mercenary group and that Moscow’s media said were taken in Soledar had been taken elsewhere, reported AFP. Additionally, the Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne, on early Wednesday, citing Serhiy Cherevatyi, spokesman for Ukraine's eastern forces denied that Russia has taken over Soledar is under Russian control and to wait for further details from the Army’s General Staff, reported Reuters. ALSO READ | Explained: Why does Zelensky invoke Battles of Saratoga and World War II in the US Congress speech? In a recent development, he said, "The town is not under the control of the Russian Federation. There are fierce battles going on now...There is a complicated situation there," said media reports. Furthermore, the Ukrainian spokesperson added, that they are working on how to stabilise the situation and that the intensity of the battles near Bakhmut can be compared to World War Two. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, addressing Soledar during his nightly address on Monday had said that the troops were facing “new and even tougher assaults” and that, “Everything is completely destroyed.” As of late Tuesday, Wagner said that the fight is still going on in the town centre while the Ukrainian government had said that its troops were still standing their ground. On the same day, Ukrainian Deputy Defence Minister, Hanna Maliar, said that fight in Soledar is still raging and the Russians have sustained some heavy losses. She added, “The approaches to our positions are simply strewn with the bodies of dead enemy fighters. Our fighters are bravely holding the defence.” ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war: Putin offers Orthodox Christmas truce, Ukraine rejects it as 'hypocrisy' The Russian forces in Soledar are trying to advance in three areas in the aforementioned region which is around Bakhmut, further south around Avdiivka and north around Lyman, said Ukraine’s general staff, on Tuesday. Meanwhile, highlighting the extent of the Russian assault Oleksiy Arestovych, adviser to the Ukrainian president, said that in the span of 24 hours, Moscow has launched at least 281 attacks along the Bakhmut axis. US-based organisation and UK’s defence ministry weigh in on the situation in Soledar On Wednesday, the US-based policy research organisation, Institute for the Study of War (ISW), contradicting Wagner’s claims said, “Russian forces have not captured the entirety of Soledar despite false Russian claims that the city has fallen and that Bakhmut risks imminent encirclement.” Additionally, the ISW in a thread on Twitter said, “Wagner Group financier Yevgeny Prigozhin refuted these claims, remarking that Wagner Group forces are still fighting against concerted Ukrainian resistance.” ALSO WATCH | War in Ukraine: Attacks continue in Ukraine despite Russia's cease-fire They added, “The Study of War has only observed visual confirmation of Wagner Group forces in central Soledar as of January 10.” The US-based organisation, on Wednesday, also said that even if they did take “most generous Russian claims at face value, the capture of Soledar would not portend an immediate encirclement of Bakhmut.” 2/ #Wagner Group financier Yevgeny #Prigozhin refuted these claims, remarking that Wagner Group forces are still fighting against concerted Ukrainian resistance. @TheStudyofWar has only observed visual confirmation of Wagner Group forces in central Soledar as of January 10. — ISW (@TheStudyofWar) January 11, 2023 × Meanwhile, the United Kingdom Ministry of Defence (MoD), on Tuesday during its daily briefing speculated that parts of Soledar are under Russian control. “Part of the fighting has focused on entrances to the 200 km-long disused salt mine tunnels which run underneath the district,” said MoD. The ministry also said that it is likely both sides are concerned about the other using these tunnels for “infiltration behind their lines”. ALSO READ | Russia likely in ‘control’ of Ukraine’s Soledar town, claims UK It also noted that these tunnels can accommodate troops and armoured vehicles which is why they have caught the attention of Wagner. The UK MoD had also said how the Russian efforts in Soledar over the past four days appear to be aimed at surrounding Bakhmut, however, the scenario was believed to be unlikely at the time. Why is Soledar so important to Russia? The Ukrainian city is approximately 15 km away from Bakhmut, which has taken centre stage in the conflict in recent months, as the capture of the city is now Moscow’s main military objective with almost a year since they began their “special military operation” in Kyiv. ALSO READ | Explained: What we know about Ukraine’s deadliest attack on Russia since the conflict began Russia has reportedly faced constant setbacks in eastern Ukraine as Kyiv’s forces have more or less managed to not only defend but also retaliate against Moscow’s attack and a prominent example of that was marked by the attack in Makiivka. However, if Russia has captured Soledar as it claims to have, the city’s huge salt mines would add to not only Moscow’s commercial but military and symbolic value for the country. Additionally, Soledar is also being seen as an important gateway whose capture could pave the way for further gains in the Donbas region. ALSO WATCH | NATO Chief: 'We shouldn't underestimate Russia' Reports suggest Prigozhin has been trying to capture Bakhmut and Soledar for months now. On early Wednesday, smoke could be seen rising over the city from its outskirts while the incoming artillery fires were relentless, said a report by Reuters. It added that many residents were seen fleeing the town. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: What is happening in the Ukrainian city of Soledar?

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; 
 
Amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, in what might be the biggest attack on Moscow by Kyiv, since it began on February 24, 2021, the Kremlin in a rare announcement admitted that at least 89 of its military personnel were killed during a rocket strike by the latter.&nbsp;

The first announcement was made on Monday, by the Russian defence ministry where it acknowledged that at least 63 of its soldiers were killed in Makiivka, a small Ukrainian city in the eastern Donetsk region which has been occupied by Moscow since 2014.&nbsp;

What happened?

The strike in question, took place on New Year’s Day, Sunday, at a vocational school which was reportedly housing Russian troops at the time. According to the Russian-installed Donetsk official, Daniil Bezsonov, the attack took place the first minute after midnight. Subsequently, both Russian and Ukrainian sources began reporting on the attack.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-strike-on-russian-held-makiivka-results-in-death-of-63-soldiers-548811">Kyiv takes responsibility for Makiivka strikes which killed 63 Russian troops</a>

The senior Russian military official, Lt General Sergei Sevryukov, confirmed that Ukraine hit a temporary base in Makiivka right after midnight on January 1, using the United States-supplied HIMARS rocket system.&nbsp;

According to a statement by Moscow’s defence ministry, four rockets from the HIMARS launchers hit the building and “from the detonation of the warheads of the HIMARS rockets, the ceilings of the building collapsed.”&nbsp;

The questionable claims about the death toll

The Ukrainian army’s strategic communications department, on Sunday, said that it killed 400 mobilised Russian soldiers when it hit the school building and 300 others were injured. However, this figure had not been independently verified and later general staff of Kyiv’s armed forces said that “up to 10 units of enemy military equipment” had been destroyed, while the death toll remained unclear.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deadly-new-years-attack-russia-blames-mobile-phones-for-missile-strike-in-makiivka-that-killed-89-549226">Russia blames mobile phones for missile strike in Makiivka that killed 89</a>

Notably, officials in Kyiv almost never publicly claim responsibility for attacks on Russian-occupied territory. In a statement, on Wednesday, Russia’s defence ministry said 89 of its servicemen were killed in the attack on Makiivka after more bodies were discovered. They also went on to blame the unauthorised use of mobile phones by the troops, however, no evidence has been provided for this claim.&nbsp;

“It is already obvious that the main reason for what happened was the switching on and massive use - contrary to the prohibition - by personnel of mobile phones in a reach zone of enemy weapons,” said the defence ministry, as per Reuters. It added, “This factor allowed the enemy to track and determine the coordinates of the soldiers' location for a missile strike.”&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/89-killed-in-ukrainian-missile-strikes-says-russia-549262">89 killed in Ukrainian missile strikes, says Russia</a>

This is the biggest loss of life in a single attack that Russia has admitted to since the beginning of its war with Ukraine. Additionally, it was also the first information out of Russia about the death toll since last September when the defence minister, Sergei Shoigu, had said that nearly 6,000 Russian troops had been killed during the conflict up until that time.

Russian military faces backlash

Igor Girkin, the former separatist commander turned one of the highest-profile Russian nationalist military bloggers, questioned the death toll released by the military and said at least “hundreds” had been killed or wounded, according to a report by Reuters. He also attributed the death toll, which he suspects is higher, to the uncamouflaged military equipment stored at the site as well as Russia’s “untrainable” generals for the losses.

Notably, the Russian defence minister also indicated that an investigation into the attack is underway and said that the officials responsible would be brought to justice “all the necessary measures are currently being adopted to prevent this kind of tragic incident in the future”, reported BBC.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-using-its-new-years-assault-to-kill-as-many-civilians-as-possible-claim-ukrainian-officials-548574">Russia using its New Year's assault to 'kill as many civilians as possible', claim Ukrainian officials</a>

Additionally, Russian lawmaker, Sergei Mironov, also demanded that the officials who “allowed the concentration of military personnel in an unprotected building” and “all the higher authorities who did not provide the proper level of security”, be held liable for their missteps.&nbsp;

A US-based Institute for the Study of War in their analysis also noted that this attack has garnered “significant criticism of Russian military leadership in the Russian information space.” It added that there is a chance that Moscow’s air and missile campaign against Ukraine is not generating “information effects among Russia's nationalists,” or at least as well as the Kremlin had hoped.&nbsp;

Therefore, such failure hinders his efforts of retaining the dominant narrative in the domestic information space and could complicate matters for Russian President Vladimir Putin trying to appease the pro-war community in Moscow, said the US-based institute.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-tells-russian-people-putin-is-waging-a-war-to-stay-in-power-until-the-end-of-his-life-548485">Zelensky tells Russian people Putin waging war just to stay in power and is destroying them</a>

Furthermore, they speculate that Russia’s defence ministry would attempt to “deflect the blame” for their “poor operational security” on local officials and mobilised personnel. Regardless, the sentiment of discontent after the attack is evident, with several people including war correspondents and people close to the separatists having taken to media platforms since and criticised the Russian military leadership.&nbsp;

It can also be noted in a rare public vigil where reportedly 200 people gathered in the Russian city of Samara, which is where some of the mobilised soldiers who were killed were from. Mourners were seen laying flowers at a monument in the city, an Orthodox priest recited a prayer for the dead, and soldiers fired a gun salute, to commemorate the victims.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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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. Amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, in what might be the biggest attack on Moscow by Kyiv, since it began on February 24, 2021, the Kremlin in a rare announcement admitted that at least 89 of its military personnel were killed during a rocket strike by the latter. The first announcement was made on Monday, by the Russian defence ministry where it acknowledged that at least 63 of its soldiers were killed in Makiivka, a small Ukrainian city in the eastern Donetsk region which has been occupied by Moscow since 2014. What happened? The strike in question, took place on New Year’s Day, Sunday, at a vocational school which was reportedly housing Russian troops at the time. According to the Russian-installed Donetsk official, Daniil Bezsonov, the attack took place the first minute after midnight. Subsequently, both Russian and Ukrainian sources began reporting on the attack. ALSO READ | Kyiv takes responsibility for Makiivka strikes which killed 63 Russian troops The senior Russian military official, Lt General Sergei Sevryukov, confirmed that Ukraine hit a temporary base in Makiivka right after midnight on January 1, using the United States-supplied HIMARS rocket system. According to a statement by Moscow’s defence ministry, four rockets from the HIMARS launchers hit the building and “from the detonation of the warheads of the HIMARS rockets, the ceilings of the building collapsed.” The questionable claims about the death toll The Ukrainian army’s strategic communications department, on Sunday, said that it killed 400 mobilised Russian soldiers when it hit the school building and 300 others were injured. However, this figure had not been independently verified and later general staff of Kyiv’s armed forces said that “up to 10 units of enemy military equipment” had been destroyed, while the death toll remained unclear. ALSO READ | Russia blames mobile phones for missile strike in Makiivka that killed 89 Notably, officials in Kyiv almost never publicly claim responsibility for attacks on Russian-occupied territory. In a statement, on Wednesday, Russia’s defence ministry said 89 of its servicemen were killed in the attack on Makiivka after more bodies were discovered. They also went on to blame the unauthorised use of mobile phones by the troops, however, no evidence has been provided for this claim. “It is already obvious that the main reason for what happened was the switching on and massive use - contrary to the prohibition - by personnel of mobile phones in a reach zone of enemy weapons,” said the defence ministry, as per Reuters. It added, “This factor allowed the enemy to track and determine the coordinates of the soldiers' location for a missile strike.” ALSO WATCH | 89 killed in Ukrainian missile strikes, says Russia This is the biggest loss of life in a single attack that Russia has admitted to since the beginning of its war with Ukraine. Additionally, it was also the first information out of Russia about the death toll since last September when the defence minister, Sergei Shoigu, had said that nearly 6,000 Russian troops had been killed during the conflict up until that time. Russian military faces backlash Igor Girkin, the former separatist commander turned one of the highest-profile Russian nationalist military bloggers, questioned the death toll released by the military and said at least “hundreds” had been killed or wounded, according to a report by Reuters. He also attributed the death toll, which he suspects is higher, to the uncamouflaged military equipment stored at the site as well as Russia’s “untrainable” generals for the losses. Notably, the Russian defence minister also indicated that an investigation into the attack is underway and said that the officials responsible would be brought to justice “all the necessary measures are currently being adopted to prevent this kind of tragic incident in the future”, reported BBC. ALSO READ | Russia using its New Year's assault to 'kill as many civilians as possible', claim Ukrainian officials Additionally, Russian lawmaker, Sergei Mironov, also demanded that the officials who “allowed the concentration of military personnel in an unprotected building” and “all the higher authorities who did not provide the proper level of security”, be held liable for their missteps. A US-based Institute for the Study of War in their analysis also noted that this attack has garnered “significant criticism of Russian military leadership in the Russian information space.” It added that there is a chance that Moscow’s air and missile campaign against Ukraine is not generating “information effects among Russia's nationalists,” or at least as well as the Kremlin had hoped. Therefore, such failure hinders his efforts of retaining the dominant narrative in the domestic information space and could complicate matters for Russian President Vladimir Putin trying to appease the pro-war community in Moscow, said the US-based institute. ALSO READ | Zelensky tells Russian people Putin waging war just to stay in power and is destroying them Furthermore, they speculate that Russia’s defence ministry would attempt to “deflect the blame” for their “poor operational security” on local officials and mobilised personnel. Regardless, the sentiment of discontent after the attack is evident, with several people including war correspondents and people close to the separatists having taken to media platforms since and criticised the Russian military leadership. It can also be noted in a rare public vigil where reportedly 200 people gathered in the Russian city of Samara, which is where some of the mobilised soldiers who were killed were from. Mourners were seen laying flowers at a monument in the city, an Orthodox priest recited a prayer for the dead, and soldiers fired a gun salute, to commemorate the victims. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: What we know about Ukraine’s deadliest attack on Russia since the conflict began

Just a day into the New Year and Russia has been reportedly making critical infrastructure in Ukraine the target of its drone attacks. As per Ukrainian officials, Moscow on Monday continued its New Year's assault where it fired a barrage of missiles at Kyiv.

Taking to the Telegram app, Kyiv's Governor &nbsp;Oleksiy Kuleba said that it is loud in the capital due to night drone attacks. As per him "several waves of (Iranian-made) Shahed drones" were used to target "critical infrastructure facilities". However, he said that Ukraine's "Air defence is at work."

Watch |&nbsp;War in Ukraine: Blasts in early hours of New Year's day, Kyiv residents shout 'glory to Ukraine'

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As per a Reuters report citing Kyiv's military administration by 3 am local time (0100 GMT) the nation's air defence system had destroyed 16 air objects above the city.

The regional military command in Ukraine's east also reported that the air defence system has similarly destroyed nine Iranian-made Shahed drones over the regions of Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhzhia Monday early morning.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-tells-russian-people-putin-is-waging-a-war-to-stay-in-power-until-the-end-of-his-life-548485">Zelensky tells Russian people Putin waging war just to stay in power and is destroying them</a>

The fresh assault on Saturday as per AFP killed three people and on Sunday one person lost their life to the attacks.

As per Mayor Vitali Klitschko in Kyiv's northeastern Desnyanskyi district emergency services had to be dispatched after a 19-year-old man was injured due to debris from a drone.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attacks-launched-on-new-year-were-targetted-at-drone-production-in-ukraine-russia-548524">Attacks launched on New Year were targetted at drone production facilities in Ukraine: Russia</a>

Mykhailo Podolyak, adviser to the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Moscow's New Year attack targeted downtown areas of&nbsp;large cities which as per him shows a change in Russia's tactics.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Massive shelling of the downtown areas of large cities of 🇺🇦 on the night of Dec 31 to Jan 1 speaks of another change in the type of war. 
Russia no longer has any military goals &amp; is trying to kill as many civilians as possible and destroy more civilian facilities. A war to kill.
— Михайло Подоляк (@Podolyak_M) <a href="https://twitter.com/Podolyak_M/status/1609556830853926914?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Taking to Twitter he called the ongoing assault "A war to kill" and claimed "Russia no longer has any military goals" and added that the aggressor nation "is trying to kill as many civilians as possible and destroy more civilian facilities."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Just a day into the New Year and Russia has been reportedly making critical infrastructure in Ukraine the target of its drone attacks. As per Ukrainian officials, Moscow on Monday continued its New Year's assault where it fired a barrage of missiles at Kyiv.

Just a day into the New Year and Russia has been reportedly making critical infrastructure in Ukraine the target of its drone attacks. As per Ukrainian officials, Moscow on Monday continued its New Year's assault where it fired a barrage of missiles at Kyiv. Taking to the Telegram app, Kyiv's Governor Oleksiy Kuleba said that it is loud in the capital due to night drone attacks. As per him "several waves of (Iranian-made) Shahed drones" were used to target "critical infrastructure facilities". However, he said that Ukraine's "Air defence is at work." Watch | War in Ukraine: Blasts in early hours of New Year's day, Kyiv residents shout 'glory to Ukraine' As per a Reuters report citing Kyiv's military administration by 3 am local time (0100 GMT) the nation's air defence system had destroyed 16 air objects above the city. The regional military command in Ukraine's east also reported that the air defence system has similarly destroyed nine Iranian-made Shahed drones over the regions of Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhzhia Monday early morning. Also read | Zelensky tells Russian people Putin waging war just to stay in power and is destroying them The fresh assault on Saturday as per AFP killed three people and on Sunday one person lost their life to the attacks. As per Mayor Vitali Klitschko in Kyiv's northeastern Desnyanskyi district emergency services had to be dispatched after a 19-year-old man was injured due to debris from a drone. Also read | Attacks launched on New Year were targetted at drone production facilities in Ukraine: Russia Mykhailo Podolyak, adviser to the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Moscow's New Year attack targeted downtown areas of large cities which as per him shows a change in Russia's tactics. Massive shelling of the downtown areas of large cities of 🇺🇦 on the night of Dec 31 to Jan 1 speaks of another change in the type of war. Russia no longer has any military goals & is trying to kill as many civilians as possible and destroy more civilian facilities. A war to kill. — Михайло Подоляк (@Podolyak_M) January 1, 2023 × Taking to Twitter he called the ongoing assault "A war to kill" and claimed "Russia no longer has any military goals" and added that the aggressor nation "is trying to kill as many civilians as possible and destroy more civilian facilities." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia using its New Year's assault to 'kill as many civilians as possible', claim Ukrainian officials

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; 
 
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in his nightly address, on Saturday, New Year’s eve speaking to the Russian people said that their President Vladimir Putin is&nbsp;waging a war against Kyiv to ensure he stays in power “until the end of his life” and is destroying their country.&nbsp;

This comes after Russia unleashed a barrage of missiles over Ukraine, on December 31,&nbsp; as a result of&nbsp;which at least one person was killed while&nbsp;dozens were injured, said officials. In&nbsp;the address, Zelensky switched to speaking Russian, seemingly directing his message to the Russian people and Kremlin following the attacks.&nbsp;

“All this war that you are waging, you – Russia, it is not the war with NATO, as your propagandists lie…It is not for something historical. It’s for one person to remain in power until the end of his life. And what will be with all of you, citizens of Russia, does not concern him,”&nbsp;said Zelensky.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-his-new-year-message-russias-defence-chief-says-victory-is-inevitable-548320">In his New Year message, Russia's defence chief says 'victory is inevitable'</a>

The Ukrainian president’s address followed Putin’s New Year address in which he was seen surrounded by people in military uniforms, referring to which Zelensky said, “Russian leader is hiding behind the troops, behind missiles, behind the walls of his residences and palaces.”&nbsp;

He added that the Russian president “hides behind you and burns your country and your future. No one will ever forgive you for terror. No one in the world will forgive you for that. Ukraine will not forgive.”

According to Ukrainian officials, missile strikes were also launched by Moscow, on Sunday, on Kyiv, hours into the New Year, but no immediate casualties were reported. Meanwhile, the head of the country’s armed forces, Valerii Zaluzhny, said air defences managed to shoot down at least 12 of the 20 Russian cruise missiles fired, on Saturday.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-under-attack-blasts-in-early-hours-of-new-years-day-explosion-hits-capital-kyiv-548409">Ukraine under attack: Blasts in early hours of New Year's day; explosion hits capital Kyiv</a>

Additionally, the Ukrainian president also said that “most” of the Russian missiles were intercepted and that if it was not for the air defence the death toll would be “much bigger” and even called the attack inhumane.&nbsp;

Speaking to the Ukrainian people, Zelensky thanked them for their efforts to repel Russian attacks, “We fight as one team - the whole country, all our regions. I admire you all. I want to thank every invincible region of Ukraine.”

While public celebrations to mark the New Year&nbsp;seemed impossible due to the countrywide curfews and attack on New Year’s Eve when sirens wailed across Ukraine,&nbsp;people gathered near the Ukrainian capital Kyiv's central Christmas tree as midnight approached, said media reports. Some residents even sang the national anthem while officials accused Russia of deliberately targeting civilians gathered for the New Year celebrations.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-new-year-commences-with-russian-attacks-and-air-raid-sirens-548471">Ukraine's New Year commences with Russian attacks and air raid sirens</a>

On the other hand, Putin speaking to the Russian people in his new year address said that the conflict in Ukraine is about, “defending our people and our historical lands” and “moral, historical rightness is on our side”.&nbsp;

He added, “The West lied about peace. It was preparing for aggression... and now they are cynically using Ukraine and its people to weaken and split Russia.” This comes after the Russian president accused the West of “provoking” Moscow to launch a “special military operation”, as the Kremlin calls it, in Ukraine which began in February 2022.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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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. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in his nightly address, on Saturday, New Year’s eve speaking to the Russian people said that their President Vladimir Putin is waging a war against Kyiv to ensure he stays in power “until the end of his life” and is destroying their country. This comes after Russia unleashed a barrage of missiles over Ukraine, on December 31, as a result of which at least one person was killed while dozens were injured, said officials. In the address, Zelensky switched to speaking Russian, seemingly directing his message to the Russian people and Kremlin following the attacks. “All this war that you are waging, you – Russia, it is not the war with NATO, as your propagandists lie…It is not for something historical. It’s for one person to remain in power until the end of his life. And what will be with all of you, citizens of Russia, does not concern him,” said Zelensky. ALSO READ | In his New Year message, Russia's defence chief says 'victory is inevitable' The Ukrainian president’s address followed Putin’s New Year address in which he was seen surrounded by people in military uniforms, referring to which Zelensky said, “Russian leader is hiding behind the troops, behind missiles, behind the walls of his residences and palaces.” He added that the Russian president “hides behind you and burns your country and your future. No one will ever forgive you for terror. No one in the world will forgive you for that. Ukraine will not forgive.” According to Ukrainian officials, missile strikes were also launched by Moscow, on Sunday, on Kyiv, hours into the New Year, but no immediate casualties were reported. Meanwhile, the head of the country’s armed forces, Valerii Zaluzhny, said air defences managed to shoot down at least 12 of the 20 Russian cruise missiles fired, on Saturday. ALSO WATCH | Ukraine under attack: Blasts in early hours of New Year's day; explosion hits capital Kyiv Additionally, the Ukrainian president also said that “most” of the Russian missiles were intercepted and that if it was not for the air defence the death toll would be “much bigger” and even called the attack inhumane. Speaking to the Ukrainian people, Zelensky thanked them for their efforts to repel Russian attacks, “We fight as one team - the whole country, all our regions. I admire you all. I want to thank every invincible region of Ukraine.” While public celebrations to mark the New Year seemed impossible due to the countrywide curfews and attack on New Year’s Eve when sirens wailed across Ukraine, people gathered near the Ukrainian capital Kyiv's central Christmas tree as midnight approached, said media reports. Some residents even sang the national anthem while officials accused Russia of deliberately targeting civilians gathered for the New Year celebrations. ALSO READ | Ukraine's New Year commences with Russian attacks and air raid sirens On the other hand, Putin speaking to the Russian people in his new year address said that the conflict in Ukraine is about, “defending our people and our historical lands” and “moral, historical rightness is on our side”. He added, “The West lied about peace. It was preparing for aggression... and now they are cynically using Ukraine and its people to weaken and split Russia.” This comes after the Russian president accused the West of “provoking” Moscow to launch a “special military operation”, as the Kremlin calls it, in Ukraine which began in February 2022. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zelensky tells Russian people Putin waging war just to stay in power and is destroying them

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, in his New Year's message on Saturday, said that Russia's victory over Ukraine was "inevitable" as he praised the heroism of soldiers fighting for Russia.&nbsp;

The defence chief said that situation on the frontlines is still “difficult” and criticised the West along with Ukraine for making efforts to contain Russia.

"Dear comrades-in-arms, friends. In the outgoing year, we all faced serious trials that changed the usual course of time, we meet it in a difficult military-political situation, when those who are trying to erase our glorious history and great achievements, they demolish monuments to the victors of fascism and put war criminals on a pedestal, cancel and desecrate everything Russian,” he said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-carries-out-biggest-aerial-assault-in-ukraine-since-february-kyiv-says-repelled-overnight-drone-strike-548007">Russia carries out biggest aerial assault in Ukraine since Feb; Kyiv says it repelled overnight drone strike</a>

"The outgoing year will forever enter the military chronicle of the fatherland, filled with your immortal deeds, selfless courage and heroism in the fight against neo-nazism and terrorism. We meet the New Year in a difficult military-political situation," the defence chief added.&nbsp;

"At a time when there are those who are trying to erase our glorious history and great achievements, demolish monuments to the victors over fascism, put war criminals on a pedestal, cancel and desecrate everything Russian,” Shoigu said.&nbsp;

He praised Russian troops' "immortal actions, selfless courage and heroism" in fighting against what he termed as "neo-Nazism and terrorism."

WATCH| Russia-Ukraine War: Home over safety; story of two farmers who refused to leave home

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"In the coming year, I want to wish everyone good health, fortitude, reliable and devoted comrades and, of course, clear skies. Our victory, like the New Year, is inevitable,” he said.

Ukraine and its Western allies have rejected the assertion of Russia that it is waging a war against "Nazis" in Ukraine, calling it a baseless excuse by President Vladimir Putin for annexing the territory.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, in his New Year's message on Saturday, said that Russia's victory over Ukraine was "inevitable" as he praised the heroism of soldiers fighting for Russia.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, in his New Year's message on Saturday, said that Russia's victory over Ukraine was "inevitable" as he praised the heroism of soldiers fighting for Russia. The defence chief said that situation on the frontlines is still “difficult” and criticised the West along with Ukraine for making efforts to contain Russia. "Dear comrades-in-arms, friends. In the outgoing year, we all faced serious trials that changed the usual course of time, we meet it in a difficult military-political situation, when those who are trying to erase our glorious history and great achievements, they demolish monuments to the victors of fascism and put war criminals on a pedestal, cancel and desecrate everything Russian,” he said. ALSO READ| Russia carries out biggest aerial assault in Ukraine since Feb; Kyiv says it repelled overnight drone strike "The outgoing year will forever enter the military chronicle of the fatherland, filled with your immortal deeds, selfless courage and heroism in the fight against neo-nazism and terrorism. We meet the New Year in a difficult military-political situation," the defence chief added. "At a time when there are those who are trying to erase our glorious history and great achievements, demolish monuments to the victors over fascism, put war criminals on a pedestal, cancel and desecrate everything Russian,” Shoigu said. He praised Russian troops' "immortal actions, selfless courage and heroism" in fighting against what he termed as "neo-Nazism and terrorism." WATCH| Russia-Ukraine War: Home over safety; story of two farmers who refused to leave home "In the coming year, I want to wish everyone good health, fortitude, reliable and devoted comrades and, of course, clear skies. Our victory, like the New Year, is inevitable,” he said. Ukraine and its Western allies have rejected the assertion of Russia that it is waging a war against "Nazis" in Ukraine, calling it a baseless excuse by President Vladimir Putin for annexing the territory. (With inputs from agencies)

In his New Year message, Russia's defence chief says 'victory is inevitable'