Backdrop

As the Russia-Ukraine war completes three months, both sides are witnessing spectacular twists and turns, showing that reality is hitting both sides. Few would have predicted a month ago that President Putin would be willing to swallow the bitter pill of Finland and Sweden's bid to join NATO, which effectively amounts to NATO's eastward expansion, adding over a thousand kilometres of direct land border between Russia and NATO, and respond only with a weak warning to react to increased weapon deployment in these two countries.

Likewise, the rhetoric of Ukraine winning the war overhyped by the US led NATO through exhaustive information and perception war, seems to be fading with the surrender of over 2000 Azov fighters in Mariupol, cutting off Ukraine from the Sea of Azov, besides losing a large chunk of land in Donbas Region. President Zelensky's&nbsp;acknowledgement of diplomacy being the only answer, highlighting concerns for people and soldiers is not too late, if those interested in prolonging this war let him act on it. &nbsp;

Parties to the Conflict

The war is sparing no one in the world from inflationary pressures, having doubled the figures of the global food insecure population, due to acute food shortage, triggering the blame game by both sides to seek concessions. While Russia can be accused of launching a pre-emptive ground offensive on Ukraine, NATO can also be accused of creating conditions threatening Russia by continued eastward expansion and proxy war. While the kinetic, contact, hybrid war is on between Russia and Ukraine, the US-led NATO is fighting a non-kinetic, non-contact, undeclared war in economic, information, diplomatic and political domains, against Russia; hence de-facto parties to the war.&nbsp;

Russian Stakes and Compulsions&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

After three months of the war, while Russia can draw solace from sizeable territorial gains and linking Donbas with Crimea after capture of Mariupol, but at a very heavy cost of men and material, besides unprecedented economic stress due to crippling sanctions by the West. It has made President Putin revisit his stance on Finland and Sweden, as it is cost-prohibitive for Russia to open another front with NATO on Finland's borders. It, therefore, makes better sense for him to achieve the desired end state in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine by liberating Donbas Region, landlocking Ukraine and dealing with Finland later. Russia realises its limitations in economic, diplomatic, information and political warfare domain; hence more territorial gains on the ground to landlock Ukraine by extending the land bridge between Crimea, Odesa to Transnistria and liberating Donbas is the best option for it, to gain better negotiating position, to have the sanctions lifted.&nbsp;

Ukrainian Stakes and Compulsions &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

President Zelensky appears to recognise that neither he nor the western propaganda-based information war, which has made him a hero and outright winner, can be sustained in the long run, having lost more territory the size of some European countries, left with devastated towns, over four million refugees, heavy casualties, and the surrender of his overhyped Azov Regiments. While additional aid and weaponry with a $40 billion cheque from the US and $16.4 billion from the EU can boost his combat power, but regaining lost ground from Russians is going to be extremely difficult, as they will use built up areas for defending their gains, as Ukraine did. Prolonging war doesn’t guarantee peace for Ukraine, but it may result in greater territorial loss, unending proxy war, and a long-term Russian threat.

NATO’s Stakes and Compulsions&nbsp;

NATO seems to be emboldened by the soft Russian response to the bid of Finland and Sweden to join NATO, with a confidence that Russia has been adequately weakened to challenge the eastward expansion of NATO; hence, it is keen to add these two countries with strong militaries, to secure its northern flank and have a better collective security posture in the long run. It also makes sense in the context of Sino-Russian footprints in the Arctic region and the North Atlantic Ocean. Towards that aim, it is ready to sacrifice some of its energy and economic interests for the time being.&nbsp;

It is too early to predict how long this show of unified strength will continue because the war is certainly not making Europe peaceful, with millions of refugees and non-state actors activated and a longer border with belligerent Russia, which will reorganise itself, learning from its miscalculations. While NATO may be able to handle the objections of Turkey and Croatia with few concessions/addressing security concerns, but the disagreement regarding long term energy security may not be easy to handle, once the rhetoric of united NATO starts fading with economic fatigue and energy deficit.&nbsp;

Is USA the Beneficiary?

In short term the USA can rejoice some immediate gains. It has been able to get control of NATO, weaken Russia, create market for its arms dealers, energy companies and infrastructure contractors. It has been able to block strategic Nord Stream 1 and 2, and encourage EU to find alternate energy sources, thereby reducing Russian influence drastically.&nbsp;

It has, however, incurred certain long-term losses, the most serious of which is driving Russia into a stronger China-Russia Axis than ever before, which is beyond its individual capabilities to handle. True, this battle has revitalised NATO, but it has also strengthened the Russia-China-Iran nexus, or anti-West alliance. Sanctions have fueled calls for an alternative financial system to avoid financial paralysis caused by a monopolized dollarized financial system, which could harm the US in the long run.

The US's global exhibition of backing proxy war by enabling Ukraine/Zelensky to fight to the bitter end in order to achieve its geopolitical aim of weakening Russia, with no American losses has tarnished the US's reputation as an ally/partner. Indeed, more than $56 billion in funding for a proxy war in Ukraine, which is more than double the amount spent in Afghanistan's 20-year war, reveals misplaced priorities, unless US is counting on making much more money from increased weapon sales by prolonging the war.

It has put Taiwan, Japan and South Korea on notice facing a similar threat&nbsp;from aggressive China, to which US has been extremely shy of sanctioning it, despite later breaching territorial integrity of many democracies in the South China Sea, violating Taiwanese air space at will, and incremental encroachment in Himalayas. The world, struggling with financial, food and energy crises, doesn’t want any extension of war, on any pretext.&nbsp;

The visit of President Biden to the Indo-Pacific is significant to restoring the declining confidence of allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific, without which, taking on China's challenge is difficult. Many in this region accuse Biden administration of reactivating Cold War 1.0 with Russia, diluting Cold War 2.0 with China, which is a bigger global challenge with better economic muscles. The proposed launch of Indo Pacific Economic Forum is to lure more regional countries to gain lost ground in economic engagement vis a vis China.

Way Ahead&nbsp;

In a situation where NATO continues to persuade Zelensky to fight, giving hopes to recapturing the entire territory of Ukraine, and the Russians continue incremental efforts to achieve an end state of landlocked Ukraine and independent Donbas, the war will continue. Neither the sanctions have deterred Russia, nor blocking gas flow by Russia will deter NATO. As long as Ukraine is ready to be used as a tool in big power contestation and NATO continues to add fuel to the fire, the chances of talks or any mediation seem to be a remote possibility. In the Russia Ukraine war, there will be no winners, but a new set of security and economic challenges will impact the entire world.

Having tested US responses in Ukraine, the growing Chinese aggressiveness in Indo-Pacific is a wake-up call to US to avoid losing influence in the region, especially after losing considerable strategic space in the Middle East and Af-Pak regions. Chinese footprints in the Solomon Islands surprised US and Australia. Regular violation of ADIZ of Taiwan, belligerent North Korea threatening South Korea and Japan, reassertion of Chinese and Russian claims against Japan indicate that US resolve is under greater threat in the Indo-Pacific, where it has obligation to defend Japan and South Korea and the strategic necessity to save Taiwan. It is also not easy to find another Zelensky/Ukraine in Asia, willing to act as proxy of NATO. It is, for this reason, President Joe Biden needs partners in Indo-Pacific, to strengthen/expand Quad, and put up viable alternative economic, infrastructure, technological and supply chains in Indo-Pacific with allies and partners. The UK Foreign Minister’s call for Global NATO seems far fetched at this point in time but indicates desperation for global support to face the reality of the threat from growing Chinese Russian alliance. &nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Backdrop As the Russia-Ukraine war completes three months, both sides are witnessing spectacular twists and turns, showing that reality is hitting both sides. Few would have predicted a month ago that President Putin would be willing to swallow the bitter pill of Finland and Sweden's bid to join NATO, which effectively amounts to NATO's eastward expansion, adding over a thousand kilometres of direct land border between Russia and NATO, and respond only with a weak warning to react to increased weapon deployment in these two countries.

Backdrop As the Russia-Ukraine war completes three months, both sides are witnessing spectacular twists and turns, showing that reality is hitting both sides. Few would have predicted a month ago that President Putin would be willing to swallow the bitter pill of Finland and Sweden's bid to join NATO, which effectively amounts to NATO's eastward expansion, adding over a thousand kilometres of direct land border between Russia and NATO, and respond only with a weak warning to react to increased weapon deployment in these two countries. Likewise, the rhetoric of Ukraine winning the war overhyped by the US led NATO through exhaustive information and perception war, seems to be fading with the surrender of over 2000 Azov fighters in Mariupol, cutting off Ukraine from the Sea of Azov, besides losing a large chunk of land in Donbas Region. President Zelensky's acknowledgement of diplomacy being the only answer, highlighting concerns for people and soldiers is not too late, if those interested in prolonging this war let him act on it. Parties to the Conflict The war is sparing no one in the world from inflationary pressures, having doubled the figures of the global food insecure population, due to acute food shortage, triggering the blame game by both sides to seek concessions. While Russia can be accused of launching a pre-emptive ground offensive on Ukraine, NATO can also be accused of creating conditions threatening Russia by continued eastward expansion and proxy war. While the kinetic, contact, hybrid war is on between Russia and Ukraine, the US-led NATO is fighting a non-kinetic, non-contact, undeclared war in economic, information, diplomatic and political domains, against Russia; hence de-facto parties to the war. Russian Stakes and Compulsions After three months of the war, while Russia can draw solace from sizeable territorial gains and linking Donbas with Crimea after capture of Mariupol, but at a very heavy cost of men and material, besides unprecedented economic stress due to crippling sanctions by the West. It has made President Putin revisit his stance on Finland and Sweden, as it is cost-prohibitive for Russia to open another front with NATO on Finland's borders. It, therefore, makes better sense for him to achieve the desired end state in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine by liberating Donbas Region, landlocking Ukraine and dealing with Finland later. Russia realises its limitations in economic, diplomatic, information and political warfare domain; hence more territorial gains on the ground to landlock Ukraine by extending the land bridge between Crimea, Odesa to Transnistria and liberating Donbas is the best option for it, to gain better negotiating position, to have the sanctions lifted. Ukrainian Stakes and Compulsions President Zelensky appears to recognise that neither he nor the western propaganda-based information war, which has made him a hero and outright winner, can be sustained in the long run, having lost more territory the size of some European countries, left with devastated towns, over four million refugees, heavy casualties, and the surrender of his overhyped Azov Regiments. While additional aid and weaponry with a $40 billion cheque from the US and $16.4 billion from the EU can boost his combat power, but regaining lost ground from Russians is going to be extremely difficult, as they will use built up areas for defending their gains, as Ukraine did. Prolonging war doesn’t guarantee peace for Ukraine, but it may result in greater territorial loss, unending proxy war, and a long-term Russian threat. NATO’s Stakes and Compulsions NATO seems to be emboldened by the soft Russian response to the bid of Finland and Sweden to join NATO, with a confidence that Russia has been adequately weakened to challenge the eastward expansion of NATO; hence, it is keen to add these two countries with strong militaries, to secure its northern flank and have a better collective security posture in the long run. It also makes sense in the context of Sino-Russian footprints in the Arctic region and the North Atlantic Ocean. Towards that aim, it is ready to sacrifice some of its energy and economic interests for the time being. It is too early to predict how long this show of unified strength will continue because the war is certainly not making Europe peaceful, with millions of refugees and non-state actors activated and a longer border with belligerent Russia, which will reorganise itself, learning from its miscalculations. While NATO may be able to handle the objections of Turkey and Croatia with few concessions/addressing security concerns, but the disagreement regarding long term energy security may not be easy to handle, once the rhetoric of united NATO starts fading with economic fatigue and energy deficit. Is USA the Beneficiary? In short term the USA can rejoice some immediate gains. It has been able to get control of NATO, weaken Russia, create market for its arms dealers, energy companies and infrastructure contractors. It has been able to block strategic Nord Stream 1 and 2, and encourage EU to find alternate energy sources, thereby reducing Russian influence drastically. It has, however, incurred certain long-term losses, the most serious of which is driving Russia into a stronger China-Russia Axis than ever before, which is beyond its individual capabilities to handle. True, this battle has revitalised NATO, but it has also strengthened the Russia-China-Iran nexus, or anti-West alliance. Sanctions have fueled calls for an alternative financial system to avoid financial paralysis caused by a monopolized dollarized financial system, which could harm the US in the long run. The US's global exhibition of backing proxy war by enabling Ukraine/Zelensky to fight to the bitter end in order to achieve its geopolitical aim of weakening Russia, with no American losses has tarnished the US's reputation as an ally/partner. Indeed, more than $56 billion in funding for a proxy war in Ukraine, which is more than double the amount spent in Afghanistan's 20-year war, reveals misplaced priorities, unless US is counting on making much more money from increased weapon sales by prolonging the war. It has put Taiwan, Japan and South Korea on notice facing a similar threat from aggressive China, to which US has been extremely shy of sanctioning it, despite later breaching territorial integrity of many democracies in the South China Sea, violating Taiwanese air space at will, and incremental encroachment in Himalayas. The world, struggling with financial, food and energy crises, doesn’t want any extension of war, on any pretext. The visit of President Biden to the Indo-Pacific is significant to restoring the declining confidence of allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific, without which, taking on China's challenge is difficult. Many in this region accuse Biden administration of reactivating Cold War 1.0 with Russia, diluting Cold War 2.0 with China, which is a bigger global challenge with better economic muscles. The proposed launch of Indo Pacific Economic Forum is to lure more regional countries to gain lost ground in economic engagement vis a vis China. Way Ahead In a situation where NATO continues to persuade Zelensky to fight, giving hopes to recapturing the entire territory of Ukraine, and the Russians continue incremental efforts to achieve an end state of landlocked Ukraine and independent Donbas, the war will continue. Neither the sanctions have deterred Russia, nor blocking gas flow by Russia will deter NATO. As long as Ukraine is ready to be used as a tool in big power contestation and NATO continues to add fuel to the fire, the chances of talks or any mediation seem to be a remote possibility. In the Russia Ukraine war, there will be no winners, but a new set of security and economic challenges will impact the entire world. Having tested US responses in Ukraine, the growing Chinese aggressiveness in Indo-Pacific is a wake-up call to US to avoid losing influence in the region, especially after losing considerable strategic space in the Middle East and Af-Pak regions. Chinese footprints in the Solomon Islands surprised US and Australia. Regular violation of ADIZ of Taiwan, belligerent North Korea threatening South Korea and Japan, reassertion of Chinese and Russian claims against Japan indicate that US resolve is under greater threat in the Indo-Pacific, where it has obligation to defend Japan and South Korea and the strategic necessity to save Taiwan. It is also not easy to find another Zelensky/Ukraine in Asia, willing to act as proxy of NATO. It is, for this reason, President Joe Biden needs partners in Indo-Pacific, to strengthen/expand Quad, and put up viable alternative economic, infrastructure, technological and supply chains in Indo-Pacific with allies and partners. The UK Foreign Minister’s call for Global NATO seems far fetched at this point in time but indicates desperation for global support to face the reality of the threat from growing Chinese Russian alliance. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | Is war-fatigue causing twists and turns in the Russia-Ukraine War?

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine started in February of this year, the nations and their leaders have been in the news.&nbsp;

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky especially has gained quite a lot of fame for his strong leadership during this tough time.&nbsp;

He is being acclaimed as a hero, and now the comedian turned war-time leader has been turned into a comic book hero.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-soldier-charged-with-war-crimes-pleads-guilty-480154" hreflang="en">Russian soldier charged with war crimes in Ukraine pleads guilty</a>

As per a Reuters report, TidalWave Comics' latest graphic novel biography is titled "Political Power: Volodymyr Zelensky" and it tells the life story of the Ukrainian President.

Darren G. Davis, this graphic novel's publisher who is based in the United States said that this comic meant a great deal to him, because of his Ukrainian heritage.

"Both sets of my grandparents immigrated from Ukraine. I wanted to use this medium to not only tell a story but to somehow donate to the cause at the same time."

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-crisis-moscow-claims-over-1000-ukrainian-soldiers-surrender-in-mariupol-480433">Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Moscow claims over 1,000 Ukrainian soldiers surrender in Mariupol</a>

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The International Red Cross will receive a share of the proceeds from the sale of these comics.

Released on Wednesday, the 22-page comic book tells the tale of how the actor who once played a fictional President turned fiction into reality. In 2019, the reel life president with zero political experience became the real-life president of Ukraine, promising an end to the war with Moscow-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/959-ukrainian-fighters-have-surrendered-in-azovstal-steel-plant-claims-russia-480219" hreflang="en">959 Ukrainian fighters have surrendered in Azovstal steel plant, claims Russia</a>

"Who is he? What makes him tick? Why is he the right leader for Ukraine at this moment? Those are the things I was curious about when I started the research," said "Political Power: Volodymyr Zelenskyy" writer Michael Frizell.

Pablo Martinena, who has also illustrated biographies of David Beckham, Nelson Mandela, and Donald Trump, is the artist behind the graphic novel.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine started in February of this year, the nations and their leaders have been in the news. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky especially has gained quite a lot of fame for his strong leadership during this tough time.

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine started in February of this year, the nations and their leaders have been in the news. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky especially has gained quite a lot of fame for his strong leadership during this tough time. He is being acclaimed as a hero, and now the comedian turned war-time leader has been turned into a comic book hero. Also read | Russian soldier charged with war crimes in Ukraine pleads guilty As per a Reuters report, TidalWave Comics' latest graphic novel biography is titled "Political Power: Volodymyr Zelensky" and it tells the life story of the Ukrainian President. Darren G. Davis, this graphic novel's publisher who is based in the United States said that this comic meant a great deal to him, because of his Ukrainian heritage. "Both sets of my grandparents immigrated from Ukraine. I wanted to use this medium to not only tell a story but to somehow donate to the cause at the same time." Watch | Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Moscow claims over 1,000 Ukrainian soldiers surrender in Mariupol The International Red Cross will receive a share of the proceeds from the sale of these comics. Released on Wednesday, the 22-page comic book tells the tale of how the actor who once played a fictional President turned fiction into reality. In 2019, the reel life president with zero political experience became the real-life president of Ukraine, promising an end to the war with Moscow-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine. Also read | 959 Ukrainian fighters have surrendered in Azovstal steel plant, claims Russia "Who is he? What makes him tick? Why is he the right leader for Ukraine at this moment? Those are the things I was curious about when I started the research," said "Political Power: Volodymyr Zelenskyy" writer Michael Frizell. Pablo Martinena, who has also illustrated biographies of David Beckham, Nelson Mandela, and Donald Trump, is the artist behind the graphic novel. (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.

Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine's comedian turned war-time President is now a comic book hero

Amid the Ukraine war, G7 nations on Saturday urged&nbsp;the Chinese government "not to undermine sanctions" imposed on Russia and directed Belarus to stop "enabling" the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The G7 foreign ministers said Belarus should abide by "international obligations" and should "stop enabling Russia's aggression".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-has-cut-finlands-electricity-supply-says-finnish-operator-478851">Also Read:&nbsp;Russia has cut Finland's electricity supply, says Finnish grid operator</a>

The G7 countries vowed to broaden sanctions on Russia and said&nbsp;it won't&nbsp;recognise the changed borders along Ukraine brought about through&nbsp;"military aggression".

Western nations including the US and UK have already sent large amounts of artillery and anti-tank missiles to Ukraine amid the war.

Watch:&nbsp;The first war crimes trial begins in Ukraine

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Meanwhile, reports claimed Ukraine and Russian forces are involved in a fierce battle in the eastern Donbas region even as Kharkiv regional governor said Ukraine's forces have been counterattacking.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his forces would continue to attack Russian positions under siege including Mariupol with the Azovstal plant under Russian fire.

Ukraine said the Azovstal plant has come under "massive artillery and air strikes". The civilians in the area were earlier evacuated with the help of the United Nations and the Red Cross, however, reports claim several Ukrainian soldiers held up at the steel plant have been injured as the Azov regiment urged they be evacuated.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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Amid the Ukraine war, G7 nations on Saturday urged the Chinese government "not to undermine sanctions" imposed on Russia and directed Belarus to stop "enabling" the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Amid the Ukraine war, G7 nations on Saturday urged the Chinese government "not to undermine sanctions" imposed on Russia and directed Belarus to stop "enabling" the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The G7 foreign ministers said Belarus should abide by "international obligations" and should "stop enabling Russia's aggression". Also Read: Russia has cut Finland's electricity supply, says Finnish grid operator The G7 countries vowed to broaden sanctions on Russia and said it won't recognise the changed borders along Ukraine brought about through "military aggression". Western nations including the US and UK have already sent large amounts of artillery and anti-tank missiles to Ukraine amid the war. Watch: The first war crimes trial begins in Ukraine Meanwhile, reports claimed Ukraine and Russian forces are involved in a fierce battle in the eastern Donbas region even as Kharkiv regional governor said Ukraine's forces have been counterattacking. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his forces would continue to attack Russian positions under siege including Mariupol with the Azovstal plant under Russian fire. Ukraine said the Azovstal plant has come under "massive artillery and air strikes". The civilians in the area were earlier evacuated with the help of the United Nations and the Red Cross, however, reports claim several Ukrainian soldiers held up at the steel plant have been injured as the Azov regiment urged they be evacuated. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Don't undermine sanctions against Russia: G7 to China

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky is winning hearts again.&nbsp;

Zelensky has maintained his place in headlines for the last two months after his country faced unprecedented attacks from Russia on the orders of the country's President Vladimir Putin.

The comedian-turned-politician built a war hero character for himself, winning hearts with his bravery, and now he's gaining hearts for the kindness he showed&nbsp;a young boy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-rebuild-ukraine-win-war-against-russia-zelensky-launches-a-crowdfunding-platform-476590" hreflang="en">To rebuild Ukraine, win war against Russia, Zelensky launches a crowdfunding platform</a>

The idea of a president of a war-torn country responding to a schoolboy's letter seems silly, and some might call it a dream.

But Zelensky has managed to fulfil the unrealised dream of a little boy.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Watch: The ordeal of a couple living off rations in the besieged port city of Mariupol

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/watch-the-ordeal-of-a-couple-living-off-rations-in-the-besieged-port-city-of-mariupol-476295/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Thomas, a 12-year-old student at Durham Trinity School and Sports College, was part of his school's fundraising efforts for the war-torn country when he wrote Ukraine's President a letter.

As per a tweet by the UK Department of Education Thomas addressed the letter to the "best president", telling Zelensky that he was "happy to be helping" Ukraine.

<img alt="Thomas's letter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="538bc6c7-9e2c-4703-9ac5-aa45ecbec8b6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%2814%29.jpg" />

Thomas's letter to Volodomyr Zelensky (Image: UK&nbsp;Department for Education/ Twitter)

His letter was among 270 parcels of medical supplies, food, clothing and "some teddies" for Ukrainian youngsters reports BBC.

Last month, the donations were driven by a convoy to a refugee processing centre set up at the East Warsaw railway station in Poland to assist Ukrainians fleeing the fighting.

In reply to the schoolboy's letter, Zelensky wrote "Dear Thomas, Thank you for your letter of support. I am ok and thank you for your help. We hope to bring peace to Ukraine and food to the citizens of all the country and rebuild the towns."&nbsp;

<img alt="Thomas's letter to Volodomyr Zelensky (Image: UK Department for Education/ Twitter)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fe4ff8e9-2e7c-4ec8-980e-47e530eebdd8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%2813%29.jpg" />

Volodomyr Zelensky's reply (Image: UK&nbsp;Department for Education/ Twitter)

Talking to BBC Radio Newcastle Thomas's mom Kimberly described her son's excitement. She said, "Thomas came home from school waving it in his hand - I don't know whether we'll be able to prise it out of his hands but we're going to frame it and give it pride of place in our home."&nbsp;

A copy of the President's reply would also be framed and hung in the Durham School.

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Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky is winning hearts again. Zelensky has maintained his place in headlines for the last two months after his country faced unprecedented attacks from Russia on the orders of the country's President Vladimir Putin.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky is winning hearts again. Zelensky has maintained his place in headlines for the last two months after his country faced unprecedented attacks from Russia on the orders of the country's President Vladimir Putin. The comedian-turned-politician built a war hero character for himself, winning hearts with his bravery, and now he's gaining hearts for the kindness he showed a young boy. Also read | To rebuild Ukraine, win war against Russia, Zelensky launches a crowdfunding platform The idea of a president of a war-torn country responding to a schoolboy's letter seems silly, and some might call it a dream. But Zelensky has managed to fulfil the unrealised dream of a little boy. Watch | Watch: The ordeal of a couple living off rations in the besieged port city of Mariupol Thomas, a 12-year-old student at Durham Trinity School and Sports College, was part of his school's fundraising efforts for the war-torn country when he wrote Ukraine's President a letter. As per a tweet by the UK Department of Education Thomas addressed the letter to the "best president", telling Zelensky that he was "happy to be helping" Ukraine. Thomas's letter to Volodomyr Zelensky (Image: UK Department for Education/ Twitter) His letter was among 270 parcels of medical supplies, food, clothing and "some teddies" for Ukrainian youngsters reports BBC. Last month, the donations were driven by a convoy to a refugee processing centre set up at the East Warsaw railway station in Poland to assist Ukrainians fleeing the fighting. In reply to the schoolboy's letter, Zelensky wrote "Dear Thomas, Thank you for your letter of support. I am ok and thank you for your help. We hope to bring peace to Ukraine and food to the citizens of all the country and rebuild the towns." Volodomyr Zelensky's reply (Image: UK Department for Education/ Twitter) Talking to BBC Radio Newcastle Thomas's mom Kimberly described her son's excitement. She said, "Thomas came home from school waving it in his hand - I don't know whether we'll be able to prise it out of his hands but we're going to frame it and give it pride of place in our home." A copy of the President's reply would also be framed and hung in the Durham School. Watch WION LIVE HERE:

War-torn Ukraine's President wins hearts, responds to a UK schoolboy's letter amid tensions at home

In an effort to win over hesitant governments like Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic, the European Commission is proposing amendments to its planned embargo on Russian oil.

Should EU nations fail to achieve an agreement on an oil embargo against Russia by the weekend, a meeting of EU foreign ministers will be scheduled next week, according to EU foreign policy leader Josep Borrell.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-assures-it-wont-use-nuclear-weapons-in-ongoing-war-against-ukraine-476897" hreflang="en">Russia assures it won’t use nuclear weapons in ongoing war against Ukraine</a>

The oil embargo was suggested by the European Union's executive on Wednesday as part of a larger package of EU penalties on Russia, the sixth since Moscow started its&nbsp;invasion of Ukraine on February 24.

Borrell told reporters on the sidelines of an event in Florence that he had faith in reaching "a solution that is shared, as not all countries are in the same situation," and that a deal must be found quickly.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine war: Europe proposes ban on Russian oil, aims to phase out Russian crude in 6 months

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When asked about a prospective gas embargo, Borrell stated, "Gas is not for tomorrow, but for the day after tomorrow," implying that the EU should take its sanctions against Russia one step at a time.

Earlier on Friday, he said the bloc needs to be "realistic" in its ambitions to wean itself from Russian energy, adding that it must do so in an orderly and cautious manner.

As the situation in Ukraine worsens, Europe, which imports roughly 40 per cent of its gas from Russia, has been trying to diversify its energy supply mix.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-likely-to-sanction-vladimir-putins-rumoured-girlfriend-alina-kabaeva-report-476904" hreflang="en">European Union likely to sanction Vladimir Putin's rumoured girlfriend Alina Kabaeva - Report</a>

"Gas cannot be substituted with something else... if it's not Russian gas it needs to be gas anyway," he said.

The senior diplomat went on to say that there were a variety of methods to punish Russia's oil exports, and that action might not be confined to a simple ban on buying the oil.

"If insurance companies don't provide the insurance for the transportation of Russian oil, it's going to be a big problem for Russian oil exports - not only to the EU but to rest of world," he stated, without providing any other information.

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(With inputs from agencies)

Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.&nbsp;

In an effort to win over hesitant governments like Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic, the European Commission is proposing amendments to its planned embargo on Russian oil.

In an effort to win over hesitant governments like Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic, the European Commission is proposing amendments to its planned embargo on Russian oil. Should EU nations fail to achieve an agreement on an oil embargo against Russia by the weekend, a meeting of EU foreign ministers will be scheduled next week, according to EU foreign policy leader Josep Borrell. Also read | Russia assures it won’t use nuclear weapons in ongoing war against Ukraine The oil embargo was suggested by the European Union's executive on Wednesday as part of a larger package of EU penalties on Russia, the sixth since Moscow started its invasion of Ukraine on February 24. Borrell told reporters on the sidelines of an event in Florence that he had faith in reaching "a solution that is shared, as not all countries are in the same situation," and that a deal must be found quickly. Watch | Ukraine war: Europe proposes ban on Russian oil, aims to phase out Russian crude in 6 months When asked about a prospective gas embargo, Borrell stated, "Gas is not for tomorrow, but for the day after tomorrow," implying that the EU should take its sanctions against Russia one step at a time. Earlier on Friday, he said the bloc needs to be "realistic" in its ambitions to wean itself from Russian energy, adding that it must do so in an orderly and cautious manner. As the situation in Ukraine worsens, Europe, which imports roughly 40 per cent of its gas from Russia, has been trying to diversify its energy supply mix. Also read | European Union likely to sanction Vladimir Putin's rumoured girlfriend Alina Kabaeva - Report "Gas cannot be substituted with something else... if it's not Russian gas it needs to be gas anyway," he said. The senior diplomat went on to say that there were a variety of methods to punish Russia's oil exports, and that action might not be confined to a simple ban on buying the oil. "If insurance companies don't provide the insurance for the transportation of Russian oil, it's going to be a big problem for Russian oil exports - not only to the EU but to rest of world," he stated, without providing any other information. Watch WION LIVE HERE: (With inputs from agencies) Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

EU top diplomat hints at more sanctions, even as agency proposes amendments to oil embargo against Russia

Kyiv has suffered a great deal as a result of the Russian-Ukraine conflict. From the humanitarian cost of lives lost to the destruction of homes and buildings.

To rebuild the country's lost infrastructure and&nbsp;to help his country win the war against Moscow, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday launched a global crowdfunding platform.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-russia-declare-all-out-war-in-ukraine-on-may-9-find-out-what-kremlin-has-to-say-476500" hreflang="en">Will Russia declare all-out war in Ukraine on May 9? Find out what Kremlin has to say</a>

"Every donation matters for victory."

In a video that was posted to his Twitter page, President Zelensky launched the United24 platform and said in English, "in one click, you can donate funds to protect our defenders, to save our civilians and to rebuild Ukraine."

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We launched United24 <a href="https://twitter.com/U24_gov_ua?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@U24_gov_ua</a> global initiative. 
 
Its 1st component is an online platform to raise funds in support of 🇺🇦. Other projects &amp; programs will be added soon. 
 
You can make a donation in 1 click from any country. 
 
Together we will win!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/united24?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#united24</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/thepoweroffreedom?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#thepoweroffreedom</a> <a href="https://t.co/notUt1P3ZF">pic.twitter.com/notUt1P3ZF</a>
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1522143153473601536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Two months since the start of the Russian invasion, Ukraine has suffered large scale destruction amounting to billions.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine crisis: Russian assault on Azovstal steel plant continues, at least 200 trapped

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According to the Kyiv School of Economics, Russian aggression costs Ukraine $4.5 billion&nbsp;per week, as bombs destroy thousands of buildings, public infrastructure, and kilometres of road.

Since Vladimir Putin launched the assault in February, the total cost of direct infrastructure damage has risen to $92 billion.

Earlier too, the country had launched fundraising efforts. In March the country launched an "Aid for Ukraine" website on which donors could contribute in 10 cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin and ether.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-soldiers-are-raping-men-and-boys-in-ukraine-says-un-official-476453" hreflang="en">Russian soldiers are raping men and boys in Ukraine, says UN official</a>

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Over $60M contributed, with $10M donated in a few days! 
 
Thanks <a href="https://twitter.com/FinancialTimes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FinancialTimes</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/CristinaCriddle?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CristinaCriddle</a>! "As the war has continued, the government has refined its approach. This week, it launched an official <a href="https://twitter.com/_AidForUkraine?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@_AidForUkraine</a> website"<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HelpUkraineWithCrypto?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HelpUkraineWithCrypto</a> at <a href="https://t.co/nEFnqSk4Pw">https://t.co/nEFnqSk4Pw</a> <a href="https://t.co/hI0eHG81He">https://t.co/hI0eHG81He</a> <a href="https://t.co/RsMuOuIEhn">pic.twitter.com/RsMuOuIEhn</a>
— Aid For Ukraine 🇺🇦 (@_AidForUkraine) <a href="https://twitter.com/_AidForUkraine/status/1505262863052644357?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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On March 19, the campaign's official website tweeted, "Over $60M contributed, with $10M donated in a few days!"

Calling on the ordinary people of the world to help Ukraine, Zelensky said "all funds will be transferred to the national bank of Ukraine and allocated to the relevant ministries.

As per him, an update about the money's usage will be given by his government every day.

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(With inputs from agencies)

Kyiv has suffered a great deal as a result of the Russian-Ukraine conflict. From the humanitarian cost of lives lost to the destruction of homes and buildings. To rebuild the country's lost infrastructure and to help his country win the war against Moscow, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday launched a global crowdfunding platform.

Kyiv has suffered a great deal as a result of the Russian-Ukraine conflict. From the humanitarian cost of lives lost to the destruction of homes and buildings. To rebuild the country's lost infrastructure and to help his country win the war against Moscow, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday launched a global crowdfunding platform. Also read | Will Russia declare all-out war in Ukraine on May 9? Find out what Kremlin has to say "Every donation matters for victory." In a video that was posted to his Twitter page, President Zelensky launched the United24 platform and said in English, "in one click, you can donate funds to protect our defenders, to save our civilians and to rebuild Ukraine." We launched United24 @U24_gov_ua global initiative. Its 1st component is an online platform to raise funds in support of 🇺🇦. Other projects & programs will be added soon. You can make a donation in 1 click from any country. Together we will win!#united24 #thepoweroffreedom pic.twitter.com/notUt1P3ZF — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) May 5, 2022 × Two months since the start of the Russian invasion, Ukraine has suffered large scale destruction amounting to billions. Watch | Russia-Ukraine crisis: Russian assault on Azovstal steel plant continues, at least 200 trapped According to the Kyiv School of Economics, Russian aggression costs Ukraine $4.5 billion per week, as bombs destroy thousands of buildings, public infrastructure, and kilometres of road. Since Vladimir Putin launched the assault in February, the total cost of direct infrastructure damage has risen to $92 billion. Earlier too, the country had launched fundraising efforts. In March the country launched an "Aid for Ukraine" website on which donors could contribute in 10 cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin and ether. Also read | Russian soldiers are raping men and boys in Ukraine, says UN official Over $60M contributed, with $10M donated in a few days! Thanks @FinancialTimes & @CristinaCriddle! "As the war has continued, the government has refined its approach. This week, it launched an official @_AidForUkraine website"#HelpUkraineWithCrypto at https://t.co/nEFnqSk4Pw https://t.co/hI0eHG81He pic.twitter.com/RsMuOuIEhn — Aid For Ukraine 🇺🇦 (@_AidForUkraine) March 19, 2022 × On March 19, the campaign's official website tweeted, "Over $60M contributed, with $10M donated in a few days!" Calling on the ordinary people of the world to help Ukraine, Zelensky said "all funds will be transferred to the national bank of Ukraine and allocated to the relevant ministries. As per him, an update about the money's usage will be given by his government every day. Watch WION LIVE HERE: (With inputs from agencies)

To rebuild Ukraine, win war against Russia, Zelensky launches a crowdfunding platform

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has shared an image of a pilot wearing a black visor and oxygen mask, who appears to be in the cockpit of his MiG-29 fighter jet.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has shared an image of a pilot wearing a black visor and oxygen mask, who appears to be in the cockpit of his MiG-29 fighter jet. The pilot in the image is said to be the same 'Ghost of Kyiv', the Ukrainian pilot who's assumed to be a myth. Reports claimed that he had shot down at least ten Russian jets during the Russia-Ukraine conflict. WATCH | Ivan Fedorov, mayor of Ukrainian city abducted by Russian troops Amid escalating crisis, he quickly became a symbol of resistance after the story of his bravery emerged during Moscow's "military operation" in Ukraine. In the Facebook post, the general staff of the Ukrainian armed forces wrote, "'Hello, Russian villain, I'm coming for your soul!' – the Ghost of Kyiv." Details, specifications of the image and identity of the pilot has not been revealed as the picture just shows a person in the cockpit of a fighter jet, with face entirely covered by a black visor and oxygen mask. 'Ghost of Kyiv' is written on the left side of the image. ALSO READ | 'Prevent him from being killed or captured': Zelensky appeals to mothers of Russian soldiers The situation in Ukraine is deteriorating with each day passing with reports of multiple casualties and massive loss of property due to Russian shelling. The conflict has also led to a refugee crisis as people are leaving Ukrainian cities to save their lives. So far, Ukraine has managed to resist the Russian invasion and claimed to have killed many Russian soldiers. During the conflict, Ukraine has also said that it has shot down multiple Russian aircraft. If intel reports are to be believed, Russia had almost 1,200 combat aircraft before hostilities began. On the other hand, Ukraine had just 124. The's no official statement on the current status and number of aircraft on both sides. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. × Before Russia's invasion of Ukraine, US intelligence had predicted a blistering assault by Moscow that would quickly mobilize the vast Russian air power that its military assembled in order to dominate Ukraine's skies. But so far, the world has seen Moscow acting far more delicately with its airpower, so much so that US officials can't exactly explain what's driving Russia's apparent risk-averse behaviour. WATCH | WION Ground Report from Brovary: Russian forces bombarded cities across Ukraine × Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Is that 'Ghost of Kyiv'? Ukraine shares image of pilot who is 'flying for soul' of Russian 'villain'

The long-awaited evacuation of civilians from a besieged steel plant in Mariupol, Ukraine, began, with US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi stating that she had spoken with Ukraine's president to emphasise unflinching US support for the country's defence against Russia's invasion.

Elderly ladies and mothers with little children were supported as they climbed a steep mound of wreckage from the massive Azovstal steel plant's collapse and boarded a bus, according to a video uploaded online by Ukrainian forces.

According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, more than 100 civilians, including women and children, are expected to arrive in the Ukrainian-controlled city of Zaporizhzhia on Monday.

"Today, for the first time in all the days of the war, this vitally needed (humanitarian) corridor has started working," he said in a pre-recorded address published on his Telegram messaging app channel.

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<h5>The Azovstal steel complex came under fire after some civilians were evacuated, according to a Ukrainian soldier. It's estimated that hundreds of Ukrainian civilians are still trapped in the ruins of the plant.</h5>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-to-undergo-cancer-operation-and-hand-power-to-hardline-ex-spy-chief-kremlin-insider-475582">Also read | Putin to undergo cancer operation and hand power to hardline ex-spy chief: Kremlin insider</a> 
 
The Mariupol City Council announced on Telegram that inhabitants from other parts of the city would be evacuated beginning Monday morning.&nbsp;

People fleeing Russian-occupied territories have previously reported their vehicles being shot at, and Ukrainian officials have regularly accused Russian soldiers of shelling agreed-upon evacuation routes.

Because of its strategic location near the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia captured from Ukraine in 2014, Mariupol, a port city on the Sea of Azov, is a vital target.

Civilians who have been stranded inside the plant for nearly two months will receive immediate humanitarian assistance, including psychological treatment, once they reach in Zaporizhzhia, around 140 miles (230 kilometres) northwest of Mariupol, according to UN humanitarian spokesperson Saviano Abreu.

Mariupol has witnessed some of the most heinous atrocities. In the early stages of the war, a devastating Russian airstrike damaged a maternity hospital, and over 300 people were allegedly murdered when a theatre where civilians were taking shelter was bombed.

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The long-awaited evacuation of civilians from a besieged steel plant in Mariupol, Ukraine, began, with US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi stating that she had spoken with Ukraine's president to emphasise unflinching US support for the country's defence against Russia's invasion.

The long-awaited evacuation of civilians from a besieged steel plant in Mariupol, Ukraine, began, with US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi stating that she had spoken with Ukraine's president to emphasise unflinching US support for the country's defence against Russia's invasion. Elderly ladies and mothers with little children were supported as they climbed a steep mound of wreckage from the massive Azovstal steel plant's collapse and boarded a bus, according to a video uploaded online by Ukrainian forces. According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, more than 100 civilians, including women and children, are expected to arrive in the Ukrainian-controlled city of Zaporizhzhia on Monday. "Today, for the first time in all the days of the war, this vitally needed (humanitarian) corridor has started working," he said in a pre-recorded address published on his Telegram messaging app channel. The Azovstal steel complex came under fire after some civilians were evacuated, according to a Ukrainian soldier. It's estimated that hundreds of Ukrainian civilians are still trapped in the ruins of the plant. × Also read | Putin to undergo cancer operation and hand power to hardline ex-spy chief: Kremlin insider The Mariupol City Council announced on Telegram that inhabitants from other parts of the city would be evacuated beginning Monday morning. People fleeing Russian-occupied territories have previously reported their vehicles being shot at, and Ukrainian officials have regularly accused Russian soldiers of shelling agreed-upon evacuation routes. Because of its strategic location near the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia captured from Ukraine in 2014, Mariupol, a port city on the Sea of Azov, is a vital target. Civilians who have been stranded inside the plant for nearly two months will receive immediate humanitarian assistance, including psychological treatment, once they reach in Zaporizhzhia, around 140 miles (230 kilometres) northwest of Mariupol, according to UN humanitarian spokesperson Saviano Abreu. Mariupol has witnessed some of the most heinous atrocities. In the early stages of the war, a devastating Russian airstrike damaged a maternity hospital, and over 300 people were allegedly murdered when a theatre where civilians were taking shelter was bombed. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Evacuations under way at steel plant in Mariupol

The Russia-Ukraine war has entered its third month. The US has called out Russian war crimes. Pentagon Spokesperson John Kirby talked about Putin's state of mind and got emotional while narrating the situation in Ukraine

Russia-Ukraine war: Pentagon's John Kirby gets emotional while talking about Putin's 'depravity'

More than two months have passed since the Russia-Ukraine conflict began, 66 days to be exact, and it is not showing any signs of slowing down.

Even after multiple rounds of peace talks, a consensus is yet to be reached, and the war continues both on the streets and online.

Now, the British Foreign Office on Sunday (May 1st) has accused Moscow of using a 'troll factory' to spread disinformation about the war in Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/surprising-in-three-months-five-russian-oligarchs-found-dead-families-of-3-businessmen-killed-too-475202" hreflang="en">In three months, five Russian oligarchs found dead; families of 3 businessmen killed too</a>

As per them, Russia is using disinformation to target politicians across a number of countries, including Britain and South Africa.

This is based on UK-funded research which is yet to be published. As per the country, the research exposes how the Kremlin's disinformation campaign attempts to manipulate international public opinion of the Russian invasion of its neighbour while also recruiting sympathisers.

Watch |&nbsp;Will Putin declare war against Ukraine? Watch UK Defence Secretary speak on Ukraine conflict

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"The UK government has alerted international partners and will continue to work closely with allies and media platforms to undermine Russian information operations", said British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss in a statement, adding "we cannot allow the Kremlin and it's shady troll farms to invade our online space with their lies about Putin's illegal war."

Britain alleges that it has traced the Russian disinformation campaign to eight platforms including Telegram, Twitter, Facebook and Tik Tok. It has also accused the country of trying to recruit and coordinate with new supporters who then target Kremlin critics' profiles.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-police-find-three-bodies-with-hands-tied-near-bucha-475267" hreflang="en">Ukrainian police find three bodies with hands tied near Bucha</a>

On the other hand, Russia calls the western media's coverage of the conflict biased. As per the Kremlin, the Western media narrative ignores the ex-soviet country's concerns about NATO expansion and the alleged persecution of Russian speaking people in Ukraine.

This war is not the first time Russia has been accused of participating in a disinformation campaign. Earlier in 2016, the US accused Moscow of meddling in the presidential election.

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(With inputs from agencies)

More than two months have passed since the Russia-Ukraine conflict began, 66 days to be exact, and it is not showing any signs of slowing down. Even after multiple rounds of peace talks, a consensus is yet to be reached, and the war continues both on the streets and online.

More than two months have passed since the Russia-Ukraine conflict began, 66 days to be exact, and it is not showing any signs of slowing down. Even after multiple rounds of peace talks, a consensus is yet to be reached, and the war continues both on the streets and online. Now, the British Foreign Office on Sunday (May 1st) has accused Moscow of using a 'troll factory' to spread disinformation about the war in Ukraine. Also read | In three months, five Russian oligarchs found dead; families of 3 businessmen killed too As per them, Russia is using disinformation to target politicians across a number of countries, including Britain and South Africa. This is based on UK-funded research which is yet to be published. As per the country, the research exposes how the Kremlin's disinformation campaign attempts to manipulate international public opinion of the Russian invasion of its neighbour while also recruiting sympathisers. Watch | Will Putin declare war against Ukraine? Watch UK Defence Secretary speak on Ukraine conflict "The UK government has alerted international partners and will continue to work closely with allies and media platforms to undermine Russian information operations", said British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss in a statement, adding "we cannot allow the Kremlin and it's shady troll farms to invade our online space with their lies about Putin's illegal war." Britain alleges that it has traced the Russian disinformation campaign to eight platforms including Telegram, Twitter, Facebook and Tik Tok. It has also accused the country of trying to recruit and coordinate with new supporters who then target Kremlin critics' profiles. Also read | Ukrainian police find three bodies with hands tied near Bucha On the other hand, Russia calls the western media's coverage of the conflict biased. As per the Kremlin, the Western media narrative ignores the ex-soviet country's concerns about NATO expansion and the alleged persecution of Russian speaking people in Ukraine. This war is not the first time Russia has been accused of participating in a disinformation campaign. Earlier in 2016, the US accused Moscow of meddling in the presidential election. Watch WION LIVE HERE: (With inputs from agencies)

Britain says Russia using 'troll farms' to spread disinformation about the Ukraine conflict

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky while addressing the nation said that Russia has lost more than 23,000 soldiers in the conflict, that he described as a 'senseless war'. He also added that efforts are being made to bring life back to normal

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Zelensky calls Russian invasion 'Senseless War'

With the Russia-Ukraine conflict crossing the two-month mark, the tensions between Moscow and the West continue to escalate.

Russia has now announced that it is all set to pull out of the International Space Station and that the country's space agency will no longer work with NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA).&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-army-damaged-1000-tanks-200-aircraft-2500-armored-vehicles-of-russian-forces-claims-zelensky-475357" hreflang="en">Ukrainian army damaged 1,000 tanks, 200 aircraft, 2,500 armored vehicles of Russian forces, claims Zelensky</a>

Speaking to Russian state TV, Roscosmos General Director Dmitry Rogozin said that Russia will no longer cooperate with international partners onboard ISS.

According to a Bloomberg report, Rogozin said that in accordance to the obligations the agency will inform its partners about the exit date with a year's notice.

In spite of the tensions between Russia and the West, space has been one of the last remaining areas of cooperation but seems like Russia's unprecedented aggression toward its neighbour&nbsp;Ukraine will be creating tensions in space too.

Watch |&nbsp;Will Putin declare war against Ukraine? Watch UK Defence Secretary speak on Ukraine conflict

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Russia had earlier warned this month that If the country were to withdraw, it will pose major problems for the ISS as Russian rockets deliver a large amount of cargo needed to maintain the space station.

&nbsp;In late March, NASA astronaut Mark Vande Hei shared a ride back to Earth alongside two Russian Cosmonauts and when asked had said that the relations among the ISS crew remained unaffected by the tensions in Ukraine.

"We support each other through everything," said Hei adding that he "never had any concerns about my ability to continue working with them".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ghost-of-kyiv-killed-in-fighting-after-shooting-down-40-russian-jets-475309" hreflang="en">'Ghost of Kyiv' killed in fighting, has shot down 40 Russian jets</a>

After Russia's withdrawal will NASA, ESA and other space agencies continue to maintain operations remain to be seen.&nbsp;

Dailymail reports that as per Nathan Eismont a leading researcher at the Space Research Institute of the Russian Academy of sciences, operations would be close to impossible without the Russian crew.&nbsp;

ISS is jointly managed by Moscow and Washington and a complete Russian pullout will pose major challenges to the operation.

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(With inputs from agencies)

With the Russia-Ukraine conflict crossing the two-month mark, the tensions between Moscow and the West continue to escalate. Russia has now announced that it is all set to pull out of the International Space Station and that the country's space agency will no longer work with NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA).

With the Russia-Ukraine conflict crossing the two-month mark, the tensions between Moscow and the West continue to escalate. Russia has now announced that it is all set to pull out of the International Space Station and that the country's space agency will no longer work with NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA). Also read | Ukrainian army damaged 1,000 tanks, 200 aircraft, 2,500 armored vehicles of Russian forces, claims Zelensky Speaking to Russian state TV, Roscosmos General Director Dmitry Rogozin said that Russia will no longer cooperate with international partners onboard ISS. According to a Bloomberg report, Rogozin said that in accordance to the obligations the agency will inform its partners about the exit date with a year's notice. In spite of the tensions between Russia and the West, space has been one of the last remaining areas of cooperation but seems like Russia's unprecedented aggression toward its neighbour Ukraine will be creating tensions in space too. Watch | Will Putin declare war against Ukraine? Watch UK Defence Secretary speak on Ukraine conflict Russia had earlier warned this month that If the country were to withdraw, it will pose major problems for the ISS as Russian rockets deliver a large amount of cargo needed to maintain the space station. In late March, NASA astronaut Mark Vande Hei shared a ride back to Earth alongside two Russian Cosmonauts and when asked had said that the relations among the ISS crew remained unaffected by the tensions in Ukraine. "We support each other through everything," said Hei adding that he "never had any concerns about my ability to continue working with them". Also read | 'Ghost of Kyiv' killed in fighting, has shot down 40 Russian jets After Russia's withdrawal will NASA, ESA and other space agencies continue to maintain operations remain to be seen. Dailymail reports that as per Nathan Eismont a leading researcher at the Space Research Institute of the Russian Academy of sciences, operations would be close to impossible without the Russian crew. ISS is jointly managed by Moscow and Washington and a complete Russian pullout will pose major challenges to the operation. Watch WION LIVE HERE: (With inputs from agencies)

Tensions in ISS: Russia announces that it will be ending space cooperation with NASA, ESA

The Russia-Ukraine war has entered its third month. All hopes were put behind the peace talks but even that seems to be faltering at this point. Even after multiple meetings, Ukraine and Russia are not able to come on the same page, they both have starkly different demands

Russia-Ukraine conflict: No consensus amid peace talks

Highlighting that the Russian-Ukraine war brought focus on indigenising military equipments, India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said that being self-reliant in defence is essential to tackle the challenges in uncertain geopolitical times.

Speaking at the Navy Commanders' Conference, Singh said that the government has been focusing on making India a hub of defence manufacturing.

"Coming to the prevailing security environment in the world, the ongoing Russia and Ukraine conflict has once again highlighted that being self-reliant without dependencies is a vital necessity," Singh said, according to PTI news agency.

He also called for synergy in the tri-services in dealing with national security challenges.

According to the plan, each of the theatre commands will have units of the Army, the Navy and the Air Force and all of them will work as a single entity looking after security challenges in a specified geographical territory under an operational commander.

"I am aware that adequate progress has been made towards the study on maritime theatre command," he told the commanders.

The defence minister said the delivery of the first indigenously built aircraft carrier, Vikrant, would be "another milestone" event.

The ship has already successfully completed three sea trials.

"All out efforts need to be made so that the ship is delivered and commissioned in the 75th year of our Independence," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-to-indian-pm-modi-other-quad-leaders-in-tokyo-in-may-474491" hreflang="en">US President Joe Biden to meet PM Modi, other Quad leaders in Tokyo in May</a>

The defence minister also noted that 39 ships and submarines out of 41, which are on order, are being built in Indian shipyards.

The four-day Navy Commanders' Conference began on Monday.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-russia-ties-grew-out-of-necessity-as-us-couldnt-do-it-earlier-antony-blinken-474485">&nbsp;India-Russia ties grew out of necessity as US couldn’t do it earlier: Antony Blinken</a>

The naval commanders carried out a comprehensive review of the country's maritime security preparedness as well as possible implications of the Ukraine crisis for regional security among other issues.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Highlighting that the Russian-Ukraine war brought focus on indigenising military equipments, India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said that being self-reliant in defence is essential to tackle the challenges in uncertain geopolitical times.

Highlighting that the Russian-Ukraine war brought focus on indigenising military equipments, India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said that being self-reliant in defence is essential to tackle the challenges in uncertain geopolitical times. Speaking at the Navy Commanders' Conference, Singh said that the government has been focusing on making India a hub of defence manufacturing. "Coming to the prevailing security environment in the world, the ongoing Russia and Ukraine conflict has once again highlighted that being self-reliant without dependencies is a vital necessity," Singh said, according to PTI news agency. He also called for synergy in the tri-services in dealing with national security challenges. According to the plan, each of the theatre commands will have units of the Army, the Navy and the Air Force and all of them will work as a single entity looking after security challenges in a specified geographical territory under an operational commander. "I am aware that adequate progress has been made towards the study on maritime theatre command," he told the commanders. The defence minister said the delivery of the first indigenously built aircraft carrier, Vikrant, would be "another milestone" event. The ship has already successfully completed three sea trials. "All out efforts need to be made so that the ship is delivered and commissioned in the 75th year of our Independence," he said. Also read | US President Joe Biden to meet PM Modi, other Quad leaders in Tokyo in May The defence minister also noted that 39 ships and submarines out of 41, which are on order, are being built in Indian shipyards. The four-day Navy Commanders' Conference began on Monday. Also read | India-Russia ties grew out of necessity as US couldn’t do it earlier: Antony Blinken The naval commanders carried out a comprehensive review of the country's maritime security preparedness as well as possible implications of the Ukraine crisis for regional security among other issues. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia-Ukraine conflict highlights that being self-reliant is necessary: Indian defence minister

The visiting Madagascar Foreign Minister&nbsp;Richard Randriamandrato&nbsp;has called the “Indo-Pacific vision a legitimate vision", an important remark given the country's key location in the southwestern Indian Ocean.

Speaking to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, foreign minister Randriamandrato explained "We have to look forward and have a common willingness for common destiny…We have to strengthen dialogues to make sure that we address the issue of terrorism, the piracy, transnational organised crime, illegal fishing as well."

This is the first foreign ministerial visit from Madagascar to India in years. In 2018, Indian President Ram Nath Kovind visited the country during which two bilateral agreements in the field of defence cooperation and amendatory air services agreement were signed.

On close military ties, the foreign minister pointed out that "we will very soon think of establishing a memorandum of understanding where we can also develop technical cooperation for maritime port in Madagascar."

Close maritime cooperation has been an integral part of the ongoing engagement between the two countries. Indian Navy ships—INS Jalashwa and INS Shardul—visited the country last year.

A two-member delegation from the Indian naval forces visited the country in 2019 for a special commando training of the Malagasy armed forces and marine commandos.

WION: What is your key focus for the Delhi visit?

Richard Randriamandrato: This is my first visit to India, and I am undertaking this mission because of the situation in east Europe. The war in Ukraine is a global concern and Madagascar and India abstained from voting resolutions against pros and cons to solve this conflict at the United Nations. This is one point that we need to exchange notes with my colleague, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of India. Then there are global issues like climate change and the follow up of COP 26, as well as terrorism and, of course, the Indo-Pacific region. As you know, Madagascar is part of western side of Indian Ocean, so we came here responding to the invitation of Indian government and we are very honoured by that.

&nbsp;

WION: How do you characterise the India-Madagascar relationship?

Richard Randriamandrato: It is an excellent relationship. For a long time, we have had established diplomatic relations since 1960, in fact, we are celebrating the anniversary this year. So, this is an excellent cooperation in various sectors. We are very happy with that.

&nbsp;

WION: How has been cooperation amid Covid?

Richard Randriamandrato: Well, I can mention cooperation in agriculture where India continues to provide technical cooperation in detecting fertile soil where we can plant, grow rice and have better yield. We also have military cooperation.

Unfortunately, in the current context, we are a little bit criticized for why we have military cooperation with many countries like India, for example, and yet we need to continue to address the issue of national and regional defence. These are areas, especially in maritime sector, we will very soon think of establishing a Memorandum of Understanding where we can also develop technical cooperation for maritime port in Madagascar.

The main port is on the east coast of the Island which means we are much close to India than to Europe or the Americas. These are areas we want to develop with India.

&nbsp;

WION: You mentioned military cooperation, if you can talk about how it is going in future?

Richard Randriamandrato: The Indian Navy ships —INS Jalashwa, Shardul and Kesri—were received in Madagascar during the Covid crisis in 2020 and 2021, and I recall there were navy training with the Indian Navy mobile training team, as well as transportation of materials for disaster victims. Also, donations which were provided during that time. Then there are also exchanges of experiences and visits within the framework of multilateral military events organised by India. Then also higher-level visits, there were in March 2021 in New Delhi, a meeting of Madagascar minister of national defence who came here to participate in the Indian Ocean Conference.

Then in November 2021, the chief of military also came to India. As you see, there are many opportunities for India and Madagascar to strengthen military cooperation without any biases on how we use military cooperation, be it for the Indian defence or for Madagascar. We don't have enemies in Madagascar, fortunately so it's just very friendly cooperation. It's for peaceful consideration.

&nbsp;

WION: What is your view of the Indo-Pacific vision?

Richard Randriamandrato: I think it’s a very legitimate vision, Madagascar is situated geographically on the western side of the Indian Ocean. India is in between the Pacific and the Indian Ocean. It goes without saying that we have to look forward and have a common willingness for a common destiny, so to speak.

We have to strengthen dialogues to make sure that we address the issue of terrorism, piracy, transnational organized crime, and illegal fishing as well. The Indian Ocean and Pacific are strategic oceans for any superpower, and everyone would like to have their part sharing the responsibility to address this global issue. We see the ambition to have a common understanding of how we address this issue globally within these geographic areas. There are many countries that are concerned with these issues, and we need to enhance dialogue that we go in the same direction in the near future,

&nbsp;

WION: Do you see some practical cooperation? like Colombo security conclave. You helped India become a member of the Indian Ocean Commission, the Djibouti Code of Conduct.

Richard Randriamandrato: As rightly said, India will be an observer of the Indian Ocean Commission as Madagascar is the chair of the commission for this year. And, we are going to make sure India will play a major role to ensure that. India is a superpower, economic and military in this region. So I think, that like this Raisina Dialogue 2022, India can send messages to neighbouring countries, to say, for example, in Sri Lanka that we need to continue avoiding any tension because that will create frustration for countries but these are difficult issues. It has economic consequences as well as social and political unrest so we shall be very prudent in finding the right balance so that Sri Lanka first of all and all neighbouring countries are in peaceful comfort.

&nbsp;

WION: You're the chair of the Indian Ocean Commission, is anything being planned?

Richard Randriamandrato: In a year, there will be the summit and I am going to invite the Minister of Foreign Affairs of India to come and attend that summit in Madagascar. That will be a symbolic, important sign of the quality of the relationship between Madagascar and India and also in this context of the Indo-Pacific vision.

&nbsp;

WION: So, can we see more high-level engagements?

Richard Randriamandrato: He is going to come very soon. President Andry Rajoelina is invited to come in June, and it’s an honour for my country, honour to visit India and strengthen the cooperation and relation with India.

&nbsp;

WION: Climate change is another big worry for the region. How is your country trying to fight this scourge?

Richard Randriamandrato: First of all, our population has natural resilience, but unfortunately these days we encounter many disasters from four cyclones, even now in April there was another cyclone. It is unusual, and we have to, maybe, correct the way we prepare the population for such a natural disaster. You cannot stop cyclones. No technological solution to avoid. By the way, sometimes cyclone also brings rains, which we need for growing rice in Madagascar.

Fortunately, we have fewer rains due to climate change but with this cyclone, we correct the flow of water in the river. We have better irrigation but at the same time, we have to mitigate the bad impact of the cyclone, as it destroys houses, trees, roads. So, we are now making sure populations at lower levels are much more prepared. We will develop a policy to have a buffer stock of rice during the rainy season, which is from December to April, so that we don't have shortages of crops. We are well prepared but never protected from such a natural disaster.

&nbsp;

WION: What is your government's stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict?

Richard Randriamandrato: We are far from that war, from such a conflict. It is a competition for domination in this part of eastern Europe. Russia, who for 20 or years even before that, had always said that after the collapse of the Soviet Union there must be consideration of their strategic defence. Of course, later on, many pro-Soviet countries joined the EU and NATO.

We know the story of what is happening, US and Russia have nuclear capabilities competing to be more influential in Ukraine. Ukraine wishes to join European Union and maybe also the NATO, so that brings a lot of confusion in having a diplomatic dialogue in a peaceful manner. Unfortunately, the UN seems to have no teeth to establish such a peaceful environment, but I personally believe sooner or later we will listen to those who have not chosen for having a biased vision.

India, Madagascar and 58 countries abstained from such a radical position. I spoke to Indian minister Jaishankar that we need to have a neutral position and include South Africa and other countries who favour peaceful resolution of the conflict in eastern Europe. But unfortunately, I hear so much negative feedback for the time being. The tension is rising, and we continue to exchange notes and continue to have a good spirit, it is a very complicated geostrategic situation in Europe. But we are very far from that, and we don't want to get involved in any pros or cons position. We are taking a position according to our culture, our history. That is why we are much aligned with India and South Africa in that conflict.

&nbsp;

WION: Lot of worries regarding China. India and China's ties have not been good since last year due to what happened at LAC, and there are worries over the Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean, especially with illegal fishing. What is your take on that?

Richard Randriamandrato: Nelson Mandela once said your enemy is not our enemy. Let me borrow that. We may have issues with China on illegal fishing and other issues as well, but we are not an enemy&nbsp;of China, and we have no enemy in Madagascar. We cooperate with everybody who would like to support us in developing our island. So, I hope the border issue will be solved between India and China. But as far as Madagascar is concerned, we have no problem with China, for the time being, we continue to cooperate and solve problems diplomatically.

The visiting Madagascar Foreign Minister Richard Randriamandrato has called the “Indo-Pacific vision a legitimate vision", an important remark given the country's key location in the southwestern Indian Ocean.

The visiting Madagascar Foreign Minister Richard Randriamandrato has called the “Indo-Pacific vision a legitimate vision", an important remark given the country's key location in the southwestern Indian Ocean. Speaking to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, foreign minister Randriamandrato explained "We have to look forward and have a common willingness for common destiny…We have to strengthen dialogues to make sure that we address the issue of terrorism, the piracy, transnational organised crime, illegal fishing as well." This is the first foreign ministerial visit from Madagascar to India in years. In 2018, Indian President Ram Nath Kovind visited the country during which two bilateral agreements in the field of defence cooperation and amendatory air services agreement were signed. On close military ties, the foreign minister pointed out that "we will very soon think of establishing a memorandum of understanding where we can also develop technical cooperation for maritime port in Madagascar." Close maritime cooperation has been an integral part of the ongoing engagement between the two countries. Indian Navy ships—INS Jalashwa and INS Shardul—visited the country last year. A two-member delegation from the Indian naval forces visited the country in 2019 for a special commando training of the Malagasy armed forces and marine commandos. WION: What is your key focus for the Delhi visit? Richard Randriamandrato: This is my first visit to India, and I am undertaking this mission because of the situation in east Europe. The war in Ukraine is a global concern and Madagascar and India abstained from voting resolutions against pros and cons to solve this conflict at the United Nations. This is one point that we need to exchange notes with my colleague, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of India. Then there are global issues like climate change and the follow up of COP 26, as well as terrorism and, of course, the Indo-Pacific region. As you know, Madagascar is part of western side of Indian Ocean, so we came here responding to the invitation of Indian government and we are very honoured by that. WION: How do you characterise the India-Madagascar relationship? Richard Randriamandrato: It is an excellent relationship. For a long time, we have had established diplomatic relations since 1960, in fact, we are celebrating the anniversary this year. So, this is an excellent cooperation in various sectors. We are very happy with that. WION: How has been cooperation amid Covid? Richard Randriamandrato: Well, I can mention cooperation in agriculture where India continues to provide technical cooperation in detecting fertile soil where we can plant, grow rice and have better yield. We also have military cooperation. Unfortunately, in the current context, we are a little bit criticized for why we have military cooperation with many countries like India, for example, and yet we need to continue to address the issue of national and regional defence. These are areas, especially in maritime sector, we will very soon think of establishing a Memorandum of Understanding where we can also develop technical cooperation for maritime port in Madagascar. The main port is on the east coast of the Island which means we are much close to India than to Europe or the Americas. These are areas we want to develop with India. WION: You mentioned military cooperation, if you can talk about how it is going in future? Richard Randriamandrato: The Indian Navy ships —INS Jalashwa, Shardul and Kesri—were received in Madagascar during the Covid crisis in 2020 and 2021, and I recall there were navy training with the Indian Navy mobile training team, as well as transportation of materials for disaster victims. Also, donations which were provided during that time. Then there are also exchanges of experiences and visits within the framework of multilateral military events organised by India. Then also higher-level visits, there were in March 2021 in New Delhi, a meeting of Madagascar minister of national defence who came here to participate in the Indian Ocean Conference. Then in November 2021, the chief of military also came to India. As you see, there are many opportunities for India and Madagascar to strengthen military cooperation without any biases on how we use military cooperation, be it for the Indian defence or for Madagascar. We don't have enemies in Madagascar, fortunately so it's just very friendly cooperation. It's for peaceful consideration. WION: What is your view of the Indo-Pacific vision? Richard Randriamandrato: I think it’s a very legitimate vision, Madagascar is situated geographically on the western side of the Indian Ocean. India is in between the Pacific and the Indian Ocean. It goes without saying that we have to look forward and have a common willingness for a common destiny, so to speak. We have to strengthen dialogues to make sure that we address the issue of terrorism, piracy, transnational organized crime, and illegal fishing as well. The Indian Ocean and Pacific are strategic oceans for any superpower, and everyone would like to have their part sharing the responsibility to address this global issue. We see the ambition to have a common understanding of how we address this issue globally within these geographic areas. There are many countries that are concerned with these issues, and we need to enhance dialogue that we go in the same direction in the near future, WION: Do you see some practical cooperation? like Colombo security conclave. You helped India become a member of the Indian Ocean Commission, the Djibouti Code of Conduct. Richard Randriamandrato: As rightly said, India will be an observer of the Indian Ocean Commission as Madagascar is the chair of the commission for this year. And, we are going to make sure India will play a major role to ensure that. India is a superpower, economic and military in this region. So I think, that like this Raisina Dialogue 2022, India can send messages to neighbouring countries, to say, for example, in Sri Lanka that we need to continue avoiding any tension because that will create frustration for countries but these are difficult issues. It has economic consequences as well as social and political unrest so we shall be very prudent in finding the right balance so that Sri Lanka first of all and all neighbouring countries are in peaceful comfort. WION: You're the chair of the Indian Ocean Commission, is anything being planned? Richard Randriamandrato: In a year, there will be the summit and I am going to invite the Minister of Foreign Affairs of India to come and attend that summit in Madagascar. That will be a symbolic, important sign of the quality of the relationship between Madagascar and India and also in this context of the Indo-Pacific vision. WION: So, can we see more high-level engagements? Richard Randriamandrato: He is going to come very soon. President Andry Rajoelina is invited to come in June, and it’s an honour for my country, honour to visit India and strengthen the cooperation and relation with India. WION: Climate change is another big worry for the region. How is your country trying to fight this scourge? Richard Randriamandrato: First of all, our population has natural resilience, but unfortunately these days we encounter many disasters from four cyclones, even now in April there was another cyclone. It is unusual, and we have to, maybe, correct the way we prepare the population for such a natural disaster. You cannot stop cyclones. No technological solution to avoid. By the way, sometimes cyclone also brings rains, which we need for growing rice in Madagascar. Fortunately, we have fewer rains due to climate change but with this cyclone, we correct the flow of water in the river. We have better irrigation but at the same time, we have to mitigate the bad impact of the cyclone, as it destroys houses, trees, roads. So, we are now making sure populations at lower levels are much more prepared. We will develop a policy to have a buffer stock of rice during the rainy season, which is from December to April, so that we don't have shortages of crops. We are well prepared but never protected from such a natural disaster. WION: What is your government's stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict? Richard Randriamandrato: We are far from that war, from such a conflict. It is a competition for domination in this part of eastern Europe. Russia, who for 20 or years even before that, had always said that after the collapse of the Soviet Union there must be consideration of their strategic defence. Of course, later on, many pro-Soviet countries joined the EU and NATO. We know the story of what is happening, US and Russia have nuclear capabilities competing to be more influential in Ukraine. Ukraine wishes to join European Union and maybe also the NATO, so that brings a lot of confusion in having a diplomatic dialogue in a peaceful manner. Unfortunately, the UN seems to have no teeth to establish such a peaceful environment, but I personally believe sooner or later we will listen to those who have not chosen for having a biased vision. India, Madagascar and 58 countries abstained from such a radical position. I spoke to Indian minister Jaishankar that we need to have a neutral position and include South Africa and other countries who favour peaceful resolution of the conflict in eastern Europe. But unfortunately, I hear so much negative feedback for the time being. The tension is rising, and we continue to exchange notes and continue to have a good spirit, it is a very complicated geostrategic situation in Europe. But we are very far from that, and we don't want to get involved in any pros or cons position. We are taking a position according to our culture, our history. That is why we are much aligned with India and South Africa in that conflict. WION: Lot of worries regarding China. India and China's ties have not been good since last year due to what happened at LAC, and there are worries over the Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean, especially with illegal fishing. What is your take on that? Richard Randriamandrato: Nelson Mandela once said your enemy is not our enemy. Let me borrow that. We may have issues with China on illegal fishing and other issues as well, but we are not an enemy of China, and we have no enemy in Madagascar. We cooperate with everybody who would like to support us in developing our island. So, I hope the border issue will be solved between India and China. But as far as Madagascar is concerned, we have no problem with China, for the time being, we continue to cooperate and solve problems diplomatically.

Madagascar FM calls Indo-Pacific a ‘legitimate vision’; bats for peaceful military ties with India

War is made up of more than two sides battling for victory; it also includes hundreds of thousands of refugees fighting for their lives.

Ukraine is Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II.&nbsp;

The United Nations predicted Tuesday that more than eight million Ukrainians may flee as refugees this year. The organisation has also doubled its relief request for those trapped in the war-torn country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdoms-defence-ministry-investigating-russian-hack-targeting-its-army-recruits-473963" hreflang="en">United Kingdom's defence ministry investigating Russian hack targeting its army recruits</a>

More than 5.2 million Ukrainians have already fled the nation in the two months since Russia launched its full-fledged invasion on February 24.

The UN refugee agency had predicted that up to four million people would migrate this year and had initially estimated that $1.85 billion would be required to support refugees in neighbouring countries.

On March 1, the United Nations again issued an urgent appeal for $1.1 billion to support six million people within the country over the next three months.

Watch | Russian rockets target residential buildings in Kharkiv; 5 dead, several injured

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-rockets-target-residential-buildings-in-kharkiv-5-dead-several-injured-473950/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Now, on Tuesday, the UN's humanitarian office, OCHA, said it estimates that more than $2.25 billion is needed to meet the country's growing requirements and that the appealed amount would last through August.

This is significant because it implies the UN's humanitarian agency has more than doubled its estimate for the amount of money required to help people within Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/danger-of-world-war-iii-is-real-warns-russian-foreign-minister-lavrov-473854" hreflang="en">Danger of World War III is 'real', warns Russian foreign minister Lavrov</a>

In Ukraine, the number of individuals who require humanitarian assistance has also risen to 15.7 million, up from 12 million previously.

UNHCR spokeswoman Shabia Mantoo told reporters in Geneva that the new predicted number was reached "in collaboration with the authorities and neighbouring countries."&nbsp;

"But it is important to remember that this situation is highly dynamic," she added.

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

(With inputs from agencies)

War is made up of more than two sides battling for victory; it also includes hundreds of thousands of refugees fighting for their lives. Ukraine is Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II.

War is made up of more than two sides battling for victory; it also includes hundreds of thousands of refugees fighting for their lives. Ukraine is Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II. The United Nations predicted Tuesday that more than eight million Ukrainians may flee as refugees this year. The organisation has also doubled its relief request for those trapped in the war-torn country. Also read | United Kingdom's defence ministry investigating Russian hack targeting its army recruits More than 5.2 million Ukrainians have already fled the nation in the two months since Russia launched its full-fledged invasion on February 24. The UN refugee agency had predicted that up to four million people would migrate this year and had initially estimated that $1.85 billion would be required to support refugees in neighbouring countries. On March 1, the United Nations again issued an urgent appeal for $1.1 billion to support six million people within the country over the next three months. Watch | Russian rockets target residential buildings in Kharkiv; 5 dead, several injured Now, on Tuesday, the UN's humanitarian office, OCHA, said it estimates that more than $2.25 billion is needed to meet the country's growing requirements and that the appealed amount would last through August. This is significant because it implies the UN's humanitarian agency has more than doubled its estimate for the amount of money required to help people within Ukraine. Also read | Danger of World War III is 'real', warns Russian foreign minister Lavrov In Ukraine, the number of individuals who require humanitarian assistance has also risen to 15.7 million, up from 12 million previously. UNHCR spokeswoman Shabia Mantoo told reporters in Geneva that the new predicted number was reached "in collaboration with the authorities and neighbouring countries." "But it is important to remember that this situation is highly dynamic," she added. Watch WION LIVE HERE: (With inputs from agencies)

UN expects 8 million refugees to flee Ukraine this year, doubles its appeal for funds

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;WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

A heartbreaking video from Mariupol is making the rounds on the internet. Shot in the besieged Azovstal steel factory in the Ukrainian city of Mariupol this video shows women and children asking to see the sun and return home to their families, saying that they are “running out of strength”.

The video was uploaded to Youtube by Ukraine's Azov Battalion on Saturday.

Watch the video here:

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It shows men in uniform heading inside a place reported to be a bunker in the Azovstal steel factory. Video shows soldiers stepping in and announcing that they’ve brought food and gifts for the children holed up in a room.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-restarts-attacking-mariupol-ukraine-soldiers-holed-up-in-steel-plant-473225" hreflang="en">Russia resumes attack on Mariupol, Ukraine soldiers holed up in steel plant</a>

As per a Guardian report, one woman in the video says in Russian that there are 15 youngsters, ranging from young children to teenagers living in the tunnels under the plant.

"(I hope) we can leave here and see the sun, because we've been sat here for two months already. I want to see the sun because in here it's dim, not like outside. When our houses are rebuilt we can live in peace. Let Ukraine win because Ukraine is our native home," says one unidentified young boy in the video.

Among those hiding, a woman reports that she has been holed up under the factory since 27th February, i.e., more than 50 days.

Mariupol, Ukraine, was "successfully liberated," according to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday, April 21.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Global protest rage against Russian invasion of Ukraine

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-conflict-global-protest-rage-against-russian-invasion-of-ukraine-473351/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">
As per reports, Putin has ordered his men to block the Azovstal steel mill, the city's only surviving Ukrainian stronghold so that no one can flee.

"Block off this industrial region so that not even a fly can leave."

For weeks, Russia had been bombing Mariupol, Ukraine's port city. The city has been subjected to near-constant Russian bombardment since Russian soldiers entered Ukraine on February 24, with attacks devastating substantial portions of the city. Ukrainian forces have been attempting to protect the Azov Seaport, but Russian attacks have forced them back.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-satellite-images-show-200-new-graves-in-ukraines-mariupol-472830">Russia-Ukraine war: 200 new graves found in Mariupol, claims mayor as satellite pictures emerge</a>
</div>

Mariupol is a significant city located in the middle of the two regions; Crimea and Donbas. If Russia takes Mariupol, its forces in the two regions will be able to collaborate effectively, which might help Russia organise attacks further into Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. A heartbreaking video from Mariupol is making the rounds on the internet. Shot in the besieged Azovstal steel factory in the Ukrainian city of Mariupol this video shows women and children asking to see the sun and return home to their families, saying that they are “running out of strength”. The video was uploaded to Youtube by Ukraine's Azov Battalion on Saturday. Watch the video here: × It shows men in uniform heading inside a place reported to be a bunker in the Azovstal steel factory. Video shows soldiers stepping in and announcing that they’ve brought food and gifts for the children holed up in a room. Also read | Russia resumes attack on Mariupol, Ukraine soldiers holed up in steel plant As per a Guardian report, one woman in the video says in Russian that there are 15 youngsters, ranging from young children to teenagers living in the tunnels under the plant. "(I hope) we can leave here and see the sun, because we've been sat here for two months already. I want to see the sun because in here it's dim, not like outside. When our houses are rebuilt we can live in peace. Let Ukraine win because Ukraine is our native home," says one unidentified young boy in the video. Among those hiding, a woman reports that she has been holed up under the factory since 27th February, i.e., more than 50 days. Mariupol, Ukraine, was "successfully liberated," according to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday, April 21. Watch | Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Global protest rage against Russian invasion of Ukraine As per reports, Putin has ordered his men to block the Azovstal steel mill, the city's only surviving Ukrainian stronghold so that no one can flee. "Block off this industrial region so that not even a fly can leave." For weeks, Russia had been bombing Mariupol, Ukraine's port city. The city has been subjected to near-constant Russian bombardment since Russian soldiers entered Ukraine on February 24, with attacks devastating substantial portions of the city. Ukrainian forces have been attempting to protect the Azov Seaport, but Russian attacks have forced them back. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: 200 new graves found in Mariupol, claims mayor as satellite pictures emerge Mariupol is a significant city located in the middle of the two regions; Crimea and Donbas. If Russia takes Mariupol, its forces in the two regions will be able to collaborate effectively, which might help Russia organise attacks further into Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

'We want to see the sun': Heart-breaking video of children holed up in embattled Mariupol emerges. Watch

Around 200 Russians living in Germany took to the streets holding placards which read 'Russians against the War'. Similar protests were also held in Paris where Ukrainians living in the country called the ongoing war a 'Genocide'

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Global protest rage against Russian invasion of Ukraine

Russia has been accused of genocide in Ukraine, the ultimate war crime. However, genocide has a specific legal definition and to date has only been proven in court a few times.

Let's find out more.

What exactly is genocide?

According to the 1948 Genocide Convention, it is defined as crimes done with the goal to eliminate, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial, or religious group.

Killing members of a group, causing substantial bodily or mental injury to them, establishing conditions meant to destroy them, preventing births, or forcibly transferring children to other groups are all examples of genocide.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-armenia-to-myanmar-accusations-of-genocide-in-the-past-464634">From Armenia to Myanmar: Accusations of genocide in the past</a>

What criteria are used to determine genocide?

Prosecutors must first show that the victims were members of a distinct national, ethnic, racial, or religious group in order to prove genocide. This rule does not apply to organisations targeted based on their political ideas.

"Genocide is a difficult crime to prove. Parties have to bring a lot to the table," explained Melanie O'Brien, head of the International Association of Genocide Scholars, citing the combined need of demonstrating intent, targeting a protected group, and crimes such as murder or forcible removal of minors.

Who made the allegation against Russia?

Multiple people. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, US President Joe Biden and even UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson have accused Russian forces of genocide, citing evidence of rape, torture, and executions in districts near Kyiv regained by Ukrainian troops earlier this month.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine war: Russian acts in Ukraine amounts to 'genocide', says Joe Biden

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-war-russian-acts-in-ukraine-amounts-to-genocide-says-joe-biden-470995/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Yes, I called it genocide because it has become clearer and clearer that (Russian President Vladimir) Putin is just trying to wipe out the idea of being able to be Ukrainian and the evidence is mounting," said Biden.

The scope of the horrors "doesn't look far short of genocide," British Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned last week.

What is Russia's response to these accusations?

Moscow claims the West fabricated evidence to defame its troops, calling the war on its smaller neighbour "a special operation" to stop genocide against Russian speakers in Ukraine.

Will the&nbsp;allegations against Russia&nbsp;be investigated?

In February, the International Criminal Court launched a probe into possible war crimes and crimes against humanity in Ukraine. It has authority over genocide as well.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-icj-ukraine-and-russia-to-fight-again-but-over-genocide-claim-459711">At ICJ, Ukraine and Russia to fight again but over ‘genocide claim’</a>

Are there any old cases of genocide?

Yes, the international courts have had three cases meet their threshold:

-The Cambodian Khmer Rouge slaughter of&nbsp;minority Cham and Vietnamese people in the 1970s. An estimated&nbsp;1.7 million people were murdered in this genocide.

-&nbsp;Rwanda's mass massacre of Tutsis in 1994, which resulted in the deaths of 800,000 people.

-The 1995 Srebrenica massacre in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which claimed the lives of 8,000 Muslim men and boys.

Since the 1990s, the US administration has declared genocide in seven situations: Bosnia, Rwanda, Iraq, Sudan's Darfur area, Islamic State's massacres, particularly against the Yezidi, Myanmar's crackdown on Rohingya Muslims, and China's treatment of Uyghur Muslims. Only time will tell if the Russian violence against Ukraine will be categorized as a 'genocide'.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia has been accused of genocide in Ukraine, the ultimate war crime. However, genocide has a specific legal definition and to date has only been proven in court a few times.

Russia has been accused of genocide in Ukraine, the ultimate war crime. However, genocide has a specific legal definition and to date has only been proven in court a few times. Let's find out more. What exactly is genocide? According to the 1948 Genocide Convention, it is defined as crimes done with the goal to eliminate, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial, or religious group. Killing members of a group, causing substantial bodily or mental injury to them, establishing conditions meant to destroy them, preventing births, or forcibly transferring children to other groups are all examples of genocide. Also read | From Armenia to Myanmar: Accusations of genocide in the past What criteria are used to determine genocide? Prosecutors must first show that the victims were members of a distinct national, ethnic, racial, or religious group in order to prove genocide. This rule does not apply to organisations targeted based on their political ideas. "Genocide is a difficult crime to prove. Parties have to bring a lot to the table," explained Melanie O'Brien, head of the International Association of Genocide Scholars, citing the combined need of demonstrating intent, targeting a protected group, and crimes such as murder or forcible removal of minors. Who made the allegation against Russia? Multiple people. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, US President Joe Biden and even UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson have accused Russian forces of genocide, citing evidence of rape, torture, and executions in districts near Kyiv regained by Ukrainian troops earlier this month. Watch | Ukraine war: Russian acts in Ukraine amounts to 'genocide', says Joe Biden "Yes, I called it genocide because it has become clearer and clearer that (Russian President Vladimir) Putin is just trying to wipe out the idea of being able to be Ukrainian and the evidence is mounting," said Biden. The scope of the horrors "doesn't look far short of genocide," British Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned last week. What is Russia's response to these accusations? Moscow claims the West fabricated evidence to defame its troops, calling the war on its smaller neighbour "a special operation" to stop genocide against Russian speakers in Ukraine. Will the allegations against Russia be investigated? In February, the International Criminal Court launched a probe into possible war crimes and crimes against humanity in Ukraine. It has authority over genocide as well. Also read | At ICJ, Ukraine and Russia to fight again but over ‘genocide claim’ Are there any old cases of genocide? Yes, the international courts have had three cases meet their threshold: -The Cambodian Khmer Rouge slaughter of minority Cham and Vietnamese people in the 1970s. An estimated 1.7 million people were murdered in this genocide. - Rwanda's mass massacre of Tutsis in 1994, which resulted in the deaths of 800,000 people. -The 1995 Srebrenica massacre in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which claimed the lives of 8,000 Muslim men and boys. Since the 1990s, the US administration has declared genocide in seven situations: Bosnia, Rwanda, Iraq, Sudan's Darfur area, Islamic State's massacres, particularly against the Yezidi, Myanmar's crackdown on Rohingya Muslims, and China's treatment of Uyghur Muslims. Only time will tell if the Russian violence against Ukraine will be categorized as a 'genocide'. (With inputs from agencies)

WION explains: The ultimate, yet hard to prove war crime called 'genocide'

In a small, peaceful village in southern Spain, there exists a white wall with a board that holds the sign "Square of Mariupol".

As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine rages on even after fifty days, countries around the world have stood up in solidarity with Kyiv amid aggression by Putin's forces.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-russia-steps-up-offensive-in-cities-ukraines-richest-man-vows-to-rebuild-mariupol-471456" hreflang="en">As Russia steps up offensive in cities, Ukraine’s richest man vows to rebuild Mariupol</a>

From offering weapons to aid, countries have come forward to help Ukraine, however, as per a Reuters report a small Spanish village located&nbsp;thousands of kilometres away from the conflict has shown its solidarity in a unique way&nbsp;by changing its name.

Formerly known as "Fuentes de Andalucia", it is now known as&nbsp;"Ukraine", the village has not only changed its name but has also renamed its streets.

Watch |&nbsp;Czech designer comes up with Zelensky's portrait pillows to raise funds for Ukrainians

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/czech-designer-comes-up-with-zelenskys-portrait-pillows-to-raise-funds-for-ukrainians-463993/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the village of around 7,100 people, just east of Seville, streets are now called City of Kyiv, Mariupol, and Odesa.

The village has also raised 3,500 euros&nbsp;i.e., about $3,780 for a refugee centre within just two days, they have plans to offer homes and refuge to up to 25 refugees at the&nbsp;centre and more with the village’s families.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fleeing-war-russian-and-ukrainian-travel-thousands-of-kilometres-to-get-married-at-mexico-border-471171" hreflang="en">Fleeing war, Russian and Ukrainian travel thousands of kilometres to get married at Mexico border</a>

Earlier, a&nbsp;Czech designer had come up with a novel way to generate donations for Ukrainians afflicted by the country's crisis he designed pillows depicting the president's portrait, Volodymyr Zelensky.

"Many people, mostly of the fair sex, see him as some kind of a sex symbol, so I got the idea to make a pillow which would look like he is actually in their bed," the designer Tomas Brinek had told Reuters news agency on Friday.

Yet another amazing fundraising technique was employed by a small&nbsp;firm&nbsp;in&nbsp;Chicago. Using&nbsp;Lego&nbsp;mini-figures&nbsp;of&nbsp;Ukrainian&nbsp;President&nbsp;Volodymyr&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;and&nbsp;Motolov&nbsp;drinks,&nbsp;they&nbsp;raised&nbsp;over&nbsp;$160,000.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a small, peaceful village in southern Spain, there exists a white wall with a board that holds the sign "Square of Mariupol". As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine rages on even after fifty days, countries around the world have stood up in solidarity with Kyiv amid aggression by Putin's forces.

In a small, peaceful village in southern Spain, there exists a white wall with a board that holds the sign "Square of Mariupol". As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine rages on even after fifty days, countries around the world have stood up in solidarity with Kyiv amid aggression by Putin's forces. Also read | As Russia steps up offensive in cities, Ukraine’s richest man vows to rebuild Mariupol From offering weapons to aid, countries have come forward to help Ukraine, however, as per a Reuters report a small Spanish village located thousands of kilometres away from the conflict has shown its solidarity in a unique way by changing its name. Formerly known as "Fuentes de Andalucia", it is now known as "Ukraine", the village has not only changed its name but has also renamed its streets. Watch | Czech designer comes up with Zelensky's portrait pillows to raise funds for Ukrainians In the village of around 7,100 people, just east of Seville, streets are now called City of Kyiv, Mariupol, and Odesa. The village has also raised 3,500 euros i.e., about $3,780 for a refugee centre within just two days, they have plans to offer homes and refuge to up to 25 refugees at the centre and more with the village’s families. Also read | Fleeing war, Russian and Ukrainian travel thousands of kilometres to get married at Mexico border Earlier, a Czech designer had come up with a novel way to generate donations for Ukrainians afflicted by the country's crisis he designed pillows depicting the president's portrait, Volodymyr Zelensky. "Many people, mostly of the fair sex, see him as some kind of a sex symbol, so I got the idea to make a pillow which would look like he is actually in their bed," the designer Tomas Brinek had told Reuters news agency on Friday. Yet another amazing fundraising technique was employed by a small firm in Chicago. Using Lego mini-figures of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Motolov drinks, they raised over $160,000. (With inputs from agencies)

From a village renaming itself to Zelensky pillows, amazing methods people used to show support for Ukraine

As Vladimir Putin embarks on his plan B — a massive military operation to try to grab at least a small bite of eastern Ukraine to justify his misbegotten war — I thought: Who could give him the best advice right now? I settled on one of America’s premier teachers of grand strategy, John Arquilla, who recently retired as a distinguished professor of defence analysis at the US&nbsp;Naval Postgraduate School. When I called Arquilla and asked him what he’d tell Putin today, he didn’t hesitate: “I would say, ‘Make peace, you fool.’”

This is also known as the first rule of holes: When you’re in one, stop digging.

Arquilla did not pluck his phrasing from thin air. After the D-Day landings on Normandy on June 6, 1944, it became quickly obvious that the Germans could not contain the Allies’ beachhead. So after a German counterattack near Caen failed on July 1, the top German commander on that front, Field Marshal Gerd von Rundstedt, phoned Berlin to report the debacle to the army chief of staff, Wilhelm Keitel, who then asked him, “What shall we do?” — to which von Rundstedt famously replied, “Make peace, you fools! What else can you do?”

The next day, von Rundstedt was removed — not unlike what Putin has just done, bringing in a new senior general, one who helped crush the opposition movement in Syria with unrestrained brutality — to run phase two of his war. This did not work for the Germans, and without making any predictions, Arquilla explained why he believed that Putin’s army, too, could meet very stiff resistance from the undermanned and underarmed Ukrainians in this new phase.

It starts, he argued, with all that is new in this Ukraine-Russia war: “In many respects, this war is our era’s Spanish Civil War. In that war, many weapons — like Stuka dive bombers and Panzer tanks — were tested out by the Germans, and the allies learned things as well, before World War II. The same is being done in Ukraine when it comes to next-generation warfare.”

Arquilla recently published a book on next-gen warfare, “Bitskrieg: The New Challenge of Cyberwarfare.”

“In that book, I outlined the three new rules of war, all of which I am seeing being employed by the Ukrainians,” he explained. “The first is that many and small beats large and heavy. The Ukrainians are operating in squad-level units armed with smart weapons, and these are able to disrupt far larger formations and attack slow-moving, loud helicopters and such. So even though they’re outnumbered by the Russians, the Ukrainians have many, many more units of action — usually between eight and 10 soldiers in size.”

Arquilla said that these small Ukrainian units armed with precision-guided smart weapons like killer drones, anti-aircraft weapons and light anti-tank weapons “can take out the Russians’ much larger and more heavily armed tank units.”

The second rule of modern warfare playing out in Ukraine, he said, “is that finding always beats flanking. If you can locate the enemy first, you can take him out. And especially if the enemy is made up of a few large units, like a 40-mile-long convoy of tanks and armored personnel carriers, you’re going to hammer the hell out of them with your small squads, without having to outflank them with an equal-sized force.”

I asked Arquilla why the Ukrainians are so good at finding. (I assume they are getting some reconnaissance help from NATO.)

“The Ukrainians are making very good use of small drones, particularly those Turkish drones, which are tremendous,” said Arquilla. But it’s their human sensors — the informal Ukrainian observer corps — that are devastating the Russians. Grandmas with iPhones can trump satellites.

“The Ukrainian observer corps is made up of babushkas and kids and anyone else who has got a smartphone,” he said. “And they’ve been calling in the locations of where the Russian units are and where they’re moving. And so the Ukrainian forces have this big edge in finding the Russians in this big country, and that is giving their small units with smart weapons” real-time, actionable intelligence.

The third rule of new-age warfare playing out in Ukraine, said Arquilla, is that “swarming always beats surging.” He explained: “War is not just a numbers game anymore. You don’t need big numbers to swarm the opponent with a lot of small smart weapons. I am sure you’ve seen some of the videos of these Russian tanks and columns, where suddenly one tank gets taken out at the front and then another at the rear, so the Russians can’t maneuver, and then they just get picked off.”

Since this is the next phase of warfare and the Russians are not stupid, they will surely adjust in phase two, no?

The Russians will continue to use some massive bombardments, Arquilla argued, “and they’ll be even less restrained about doing so in eastern Ukraine than they have been in its western territory. But rubble makes conquest harder. Recall Stalingrad.” The Nazis bombed Stalingrad, Russia, into the Stone Age in World War II but then had to try to move through the rubble in small units to secure it and could not do so.

So look for the Russians to adjust some tactics. “The Russians have shown an ability to learn and adapt,” said Arquilla. “In the first winter war against the Finns — 1939 to 1940 — the same sort of thing happened to the Russians when they first invaded Finland. They got clobbered by the Finns using these small-team tactics. The Russians then fell back, they reorganized, and then they came back in a little smarter way and eventually overwhelmed the opponent. My understanding is that the Russians have actually been activating more of their naval infantry units, which are used to operating in smaller teams.” So expect them to be more infantry-heavy and less tank-heavy in the next phase.

That said, he added, the Ukrainians “still should have the edge in terms of the finding issue, and they’re already habituated to operating in these very small units. The Russians are much more centralised. One of the reasons they’ve had so many generals get killed is that at the tactical level, they don’t have people who are empowered to make those quick decisions in a firefight; only general officers can, so they had to come down close to the front and do things that lieutenants and sergeants in the American military routinely do.”

One of the more intriguing aspects of the conflict in Ukraine is the apparent lack of cyberwarfare from Russia. “The Russians did employ cyberspace-based attack tools to disrupt Ukrainian command and control, yet it had little overall effect because of the very decentralized operations of Ukraine’s regular and militia defense forces,” explained Arquilla.

At the same time, the Russians appear loath to launch a big cyberattack against infrastructure in the United States and against the other NATO countries aiding Ukraine, out of a fear that doing so now would enable NATO to learn about Russia’s most advanced cyber tools and build defences against them. Russia needs to save its cyberweapons for a big war with the West. So, observed Arquilla, “it may be that when it comes to strategic cyberwarfare, the prospect on all sides of facing mutual assured disruption may actually produce a kind of cyberdeterrence.”

As for Russia’s vaunted air superiority, said Arquilla, “we have already seen how vulnerable their jets and helicopters are to Stingers. This won’t change in the next phase of the war.”

In sum, said Arquilla, “I am not saying that the Russians are going to be driven out of eastern Ukraine. I am trying to answer the question: Why have the Ukrainians done so very well? And it’s because they have applied all these new rules of modern warfare.”

And since they will surely continue to do so, it augurs a long, terrible, mutually destructive new round of warfare in which neither side is likely to be able to administer a knockout blow. After that, who knows?

I still hope Putin the fool will eventually seek a dirty, face-saving deal, involving a Russian withdrawal, some kind of independent status for the more pro-Russian eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk and no Ukrainian membership in NATO but giving Ukraine a green light to join the European Union, along with security guarantees against another Russian invasion.

May it happen soon.

“The longer the fighting goes on, the tougher the Ukrainian resistance — thanks to the ways of war they are pioneering — the more the risk of escalation grows,” said Arquilla. “But Putin has cowed Russian civil society into submission. And the Russian military, so embarrassed by their relatively poor performance, is unlikely to turn on him. Thus, he probably thinks he’s not under time pressure to de-escalate.”

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is how little wars become big wars.

“I recently reread Barbara Tuchman’s ‘The Guns of August’” — about how the great powers stumbled into World War I — said Arquilla. “It’s a cautionary tale that remains relevant.”

As Vladimir Putin embarks on his plan B — a massive military operation to try to grab at least a small bite of eastern Ukraine to justify his misbegotten war — I thought: Who could give him the best advice right now?

As Vladimir Putin embarks on his plan B — a massive military operation to try to grab at least a small bite of eastern Ukraine to justify his misbegotten war — I thought: Who could give him the best advice right now? I settled on one of America’s premier teachers of grand strategy, John Arquilla, who recently retired as a distinguished professor of defence analysis at the US Naval Postgraduate School. When I called Arquilla and asked him what he’d tell Putin today, he didn’t hesitate: “I would say, ‘Make peace, you fool.’” This is also known as the first rule of holes: When you’re in one, stop digging. Arquilla did not pluck his phrasing from thin air. After the D-Day landings on Normandy on June 6, 1944, it became quickly obvious that the Germans could not contain the Allies’ beachhead. So after a German counterattack near Caen failed on July 1, the top German commander on that front, Field Marshal Gerd von Rundstedt, phoned Berlin to report the debacle to the army chief of staff, Wilhelm Keitel, who then asked him, “What shall we do?” — to which von Rundstedt famously replied, “Make peace, you fools! What else can you do?” The next day, von Rundstedt was removed — not unlike what Putin has just done, bringing in a new senior general, one who helped crush the opposition movement in Syria with unrestrained brutality — to run phase two of his war. This did not work for the Germans, and without making any predictions, Arquilla explained why he believed that Putin’s army, too, could meet very stiff resistance from the undermanned and underarmed Ukrainians in this new phase. It starts, he argued, with all that is new in this Ukraine-Russia war: “In many respects, this war is our era’s Spanish Civil War. In that war, many weapons — like Stuka dive bombers and Panzer tanks — were tested out by the Germans, and the allies learned things as well, before World War II. The same is being done in Ukraine when it comes to next-generation warfare.” Arquilla recently published a book on next-gen warfare, “Bitskrieg: The New Challenge of Cyberwarfare.” “In that book, I outlined the three new rules of war, all of which I am seeing being employed by the Ukrainians,” he explained. “The first is that many and small beats large and heavy. The Ukrainians are operating in squad-level units armed with smart weapons, and these are able to disrupt far larger formations and attack slow-moving, loud helicopters and such. So even though they’re outnumbered by the Russians, the Ukrainians have many, many more units of action — usually between eight and 10 soldiers in size.” Arquilla said that these small Ukrainian units armed with precision-guided smart weapons like killer drones, anti-aircraft weapons and light anti-tank weapons “can take out the Russians’ much larger and more heavily armed tank units.” The second rule of modern warfare playing out in Ukraine, he said, “is that finding always beats flanking. If you can locate the enemy first, you can take him out. And especially if the enemy is made up of a few large units, like a 40-mile-long convoy of tanks and armored personnel carriers, you’re going to hammer the hell out of them with your small squads, without having to outflank them with an equal-sized force.” I asked Arquilla why the Ukrainians are so good at finding. (I assume they are getting some reconnaissance help from NATO.) “The Ukrainians are making very good use of small drones, particularly those Turkish drones, which are tremendous,” said Arquilla. But it’s their human sensors — the informal Ukrainian observer corps — that are devastating the Russians. Grandmas with iPhones can trump satellites. “The Ukrainian observer corps is made up of babushkas and kids and anyone else who has got a smartphone,” he said. “And they’ve been calling in the locations of where the Russian units are and where they’re moving. And so the Ukrainian forces have this big edge in finding the Russians in this big country, and that is giving their small units with smart weapons” real-time, actionable intelligence. The third rule of new-age warfare playing out in Ukraine, said Arquilla, is that “swarming always beats surging.” He explained: “War is not just a numbers game anymore. You don’t need big numbers to swarm the opponent with a lot of small smart weapons. I am sure you’ve seen some of the videos of these Russian tanks and columns, where suddenly one tank gets taken out at the front and then another at the rear, so the Russians can’t maneuver, and then they just get picked off.” Since this is the next phase of warfare and the Russians are not stupid, they will surely adjust in phase two, no? The Russians will continue to use some massive bombardments, Arquilla argued, “and they’ll be even less restrained about doing so in eastern Ukraine than they have been in its western territory. But rubble makes conquest harder. Recall Stalingrad.” The Nazis bombed Stalingrad, Russia, into the Stone Age in World War II but then had to try to move through the rubble in small units to secure it and could not do so. So look for the Russians to adjust some tactics. “The Russians have shown an ability to learn and adapt,” said Arquilla. “In the first winter war against the Finns — 1939 to 1940 — the same sort of thing happened to the Russians when they first invaded Finland. They got clobbered by the Finns using these small-team tactics. The Russians then fell back, they reorganized, and then they came back in a little smarter way and eventually overwhelmed the opponent. My understanding is that the Russians have actually been activating more of their naval infantry units, which are used to operating in smaller teams.” So expect them to be more infantry-heavy and less tank-heavy in the next phase. That said, he added, the Ukrainians “still should have the edge in terms of the finding issue, and they’re already habituated to operating in these very small units. The Russians are much more centralised. One of the reasons they’ve had so many generals get killed is that at the tactical level, they don’t have people who are empowered to make those quick decisions in a firefight; only general officers can, so they had to come down close to the front and do things that lieutenants and sergeants in the American military routinely do.” One of the more intriguing aspects of the conflict in Ukraine is the apparent lack of cyberwarfare from Russia. “The Russians did employ cyberspace-based attack tools to disrupt Ukrainian command and control, yet it had little overall effect because of the very decentralized operations of Ukraine’s regular and militia defense forces,” explained Arquilla. At the same time, the Russians appear loath to launch a big cyberattack against infrastructure in the United States and against the other NATO countries aiding Ukraine, out of a fear that doing so now would enable NATO to learn about Russia’s most advanced cyber tools and build defences against them. Russia needs to save its cyberweapons for a big war with the West. So, observed Arquilla, “it may be that when it comes to strategic cyberwarfare, the prospect on all sides of facing mutual assured disruption may actually produce a kind of cyberdeterrence.” As for Russia’s vaunted air superiority, said Arquilla, “we have already seen how vulnerable their jets and helicopters are to Stingers. This won’t change in the next phase of the war.” In sum, said Arquilla, “I am not saying that the Russians are going to be driven out of eastern Ukraine. I am trying to answer the question: Why have the Ukrainians done so very well? And it’s because they have applied all these new rules of modern warfare.” And since they will surely continue to do so, it augurs a long, terrible, mutually destructive new round of warfare in which neither side is likely to be able to administer a knockout blow. After that, who knows? I still hope Putin the fool will eventually seek a dirty, face-saving deal, involving a Russian withdrawal, some kind of independent status for the more pro-Russian eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk and no Ukrainian membership in NATO but giving Ukraine a green light to join the European Union, along with security guarantees against another Russian invasion. May it happen soon. “The longer the fighting goes on, the tougher the Ukrainian resistance — thanks to the ways of war they are pioneering — the more the risk of escalation grows,” said Arquilla. “But Putin has cowed Russian civil society into submission. And the Russian military, so embarrassed by their relatively poor performance, is unlikely to turn on him. Thus, he probably thinks he’s not under time pressure to de-escalate.” And that, ladies and gentlemen, is how little wars become big wars. “I recently reread Barbara Tuchman’s ‘The Guns of August’” — about how the great powers stumbled into World War I — said Arquilla. “It’s a cautionary tale that remains relevant.”

Free advice for Putin: ‘Make peace, you fool’

Russia has faced a multitude of sanctions, not only from the United States but also from western and European nations, and now it is retaliating with tit-for-tat.&nbsp;

As per reports by the Russian Interfax news agency, Moscow is sanctioning 398 members of the US Congress and 87 Canadian senators in a retaliatory move.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sadists-rapists-russian-forces-using-rape-as-punishing-tactic-in-ukraine-un-womens-body-voices-concern-470378" hreflang="en">'Sadists, rapists': Russian forces using rape as punishing tactic in Ukraine, UN women's body voices concern</a>

“New announcements of Russian counter measures are planned in the near future, involving an increase in the number of people on the 'stop list' and other retaliatory steps," Russia's foreign ministry said, according to Interfax.

Russia has reportedly introduced these sanctions in reprisal for the US's punitive measure for Moscow’s attack on Ukraine. The attack which began on 24th February today completes seven weeks of fear, violence, and deaths.

"Taking into account the sanctions the US is constantly introducing, further announcements of Russian countermeasures are planned in the near future," the Russian foreign ministry announced, adding that these sanctions include an entry ban.

Watch |&nbsp;'Moscow will continue its invasion of Ukraine until 'noble aims' are fulfilled,' says Putin

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/moscow-will-continue-its-invasion-of-ukraine-until-noble-aims-are-fulfilled-says-putin-470706/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In another statement, the ministry also vowed to announce additional sanctions for Ottawa’s "short-sighted" politics.

Following the invasion, Moscow faced a number of crippling sanctions that targeted its economy.

The country has seen the exclusion of its multiple banks from the SWIFT messaging system. It was also met with individual sanctions on its oligarchs, seizing of their personal property like yachts, a coal embargo and restrictions on new investments.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russia-ukraine-conflict-these-eu-allies-have-expelled-around-150-russian-diplomats-468612">Russia-Ukraine conflict: These EU allies have expelled around 150 Russian diplomats</a>

Additionally, its diplomats have also faced expulsion on charges of alleged spying and espionage.

The prolonged isolation that Russia faces has landed it in a deep economic depression, with its currency Ruble losing its value rapidly. Due to the sanctions, the currency fell to the low of 121.5 rubles per dollar. The ruble is recovering today, with the exchange rate at 82.35 rubles to the dollar on Thursday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia has faced a multitude of sanctions, not only from the United States but also from western and European nations, and now it is retaliating with tit-for-tat.

Russia has faced a multitude of sanctions, not only from the United States but also from western and European nations, and now it is retaliating with tit-for-tat. As per reports by the Russian Interfax news agency, Moscow is sanctioning 398 members of the US Congress and 87 Canadian senators in a retaliatory move. Also read | 'Sadists, rapists': Russian forces using rape as punishing tactic in Ukraine, UN women's body voices concern “New announcements of Russian counter measures are planned in the near future, involving an increase in the number of people on the 'stop list' and other retaliatory steps," Russia's foreign ministry said, according to Interfax. Russia has reportedly introduced these sanctions in reprisal for the US's punitive measure for Moscow’s attack on Ukraine. The attack which began on 24th February today completes seven weeks of fear, violence, and deaths. "Taking into account the sanctions the US is constantly introducing, further announcements of Russian countermeasures are planned in the near future," the Russian foreign ministry announced, adding that these sanctions include an entry ban. Watch | 'Moscow will continue its invasion of Ukraine until 'noble aims' are fulfilled,' says Putin In another statement, the ministry also vowed to announce additional sanctions for Ottawa’s "short-sighted" politics. Following the invasion, Moscow faced a number of crippling sanctions that targeted its economy. The country has seen the exclusion of its multiple banks from the SWIFT messaging system. It was also met with individual sanctions on its oligarchs, seizing of their personal property like yachts, a coal embargo and restrictions on new investments. Also read | Russia-Ukraine conflict: These EU allies have expelled around 150 Russian diplomats Additionally, its diplomats have also faced expulsion on charges of alleged spying and espionage. The prolonged isolation that Russia faces has landed it in a deep economic depression, with its currency Ruble losing its value rapidly. Due to the sanctions, the currency fell to the low of 121.5 rubles per dollar. The ruble is recovering today, with the exchange rate at 82.35 rubles to the dollar on Thursday. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Moscow’s tit-for-tat move; slaps sanctions on US, Canada

Top UN officials called for a probe of Russia's aggression against women during its invasion of Ukraine, as well as the protection of children caught up in the conflict, on Monday.

"We are increasingly hearing of rape and sexual violence. These allegations must be independently investigated to ensure justice and accountability,"&nbsp;Sima Bahous, the UN's women's agency's director, said at a Security Council meeting in New York.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-forces-are-setting-the-stage-for-a-new-offensive-in-ukraines-east-470344" hreflang="en">Russian forces are setting the stage for a new offensive in Ukraine’s east</a>

It was unclear whether any probe would be approved by the Security Council, where Russia has&nbsp;veto-wielding powers.

"This war must stop. Now," said Bahous.

The combination of huge displacement with the large presence of conscripts and mercenaries, and the cruelty demonstrated towards the Ukrainian people, has triggered all red lights,&nbsp;according to Bahous.

On Monday, Russia, however, once again disputed claims made by Security Council members.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia threatens legal action if forced into sovereign debt default

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-threatens-legal-action-if-forced-into-sovereign-debt-default-470118/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Dmitry Polyansky, Russia's deputy UN ambassador, urged the group to respect the "presumption of innocence" and stressed that his country's "special military operation" was meant to "save Ukraine's future."

"We know and see - and we want you to hear our voices - that violence and rape is used now as a weapon of war by Russian invaders in Ukraine."&nbsp;Kateryna Cherepakha, president of the rights group La Strada-Ukraine, told the Council via video.

The charges were refuted by Russia's deputy UN ambassador, who accused Ukraine and its allies of having a clear intention to portray Russian servicemen as "sadists and rapists."

According to a report by BBC, they have independently sought out and discovered mounting evidence of rape being used as a punishing tactic by the invading soldiers. Their report includes graphic descriptions of sexual violence against women and girls of all ages.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-un-to-vote-on-expelling-russia-from-human-rights-council-469160" hreflang="en">Explained: UN to vote on expelling Russia from Human Rights Council</a>

One incident reported involves a 50-year-old woman who was raped and her husband killed, another had a 16-year-old raped in the street right in front of her 25-year-old sister with the invading soldiers yelling 'this will happen to every Nazi prostitute'.

The same BBC report also mentions, that Lyudmyla Denisova, Ukraine's human rights ombudsman, said that other such examples are being documented.

"About 25 girls and women aged 14 to 24 were systematically raped during the occupation in the basement of one house in Bucha. Nine of them are pregnant," she said. "Russian soldiers told them they would rape them to the point where they wouldn't want sexual contact with any man, to prevent them from having Ukrainian children."

(With inputs from agencies)

Top UN officials called for a probe of Russia's aggression against women during its invasion of Ukraine, as well as the protection of children caught up in the conflict, on Monday.

Top UN officials called for a probe of Russia's aggression against women during its invasion of Ukraine, as well as the protection of children caught up in the conflict, on Monday. "We are increasingly hearing of rape and sexual violence. These allegations must be independently investigated to ensure justice and accountability," Sima Bahous, the UN's women's agency's director, said at a Security Council meeting in New York. Also read | Russian forces are setting the stage for a new offensive in Ukraine’s east It was unclear whether any probe would be approved by the Security Council, where Russia has veto-wielding powers. "This war must stop. Now," said Bahous. The combination of huge displacement with the large presence of conscripts and mercenaries, and the cruelty demonstrated towards the Ukrainian people, has triggered all red lights, according to Bahous. On Monday, Russia, however, once again disputed claims made by Security Council members. Watch | Russia threatens legal action if forced into sovereign debt default Dmitry Polyansky, Russia's deputy UN ambassador, urged the group to respect the "presumption of innocence" and stressed that his country's "special military operation" was meant to "save Ukraine's future." "We know and see - and we want you to hear our voices - that violence and rape is used now as a weapon of war by Russian invaders in Ukraine." Kateryna Cherepakha, president of the rights group La Strada-Ukraine, told the Council via video. The charges were refuted by Russia's deputy UN ambassador, who accused Ukraine and its allies of having a clear intention to portray Russian servicemen as "sadists and rapists." According to a report by BBC, they have independently sought out and discovered mounting evidence of rape being used as a punishing tactic by the invading soldiers. Their report includes graphic descriptions of sexual violence against women and girls of all ages. Also read | Explained: UN to vote on expelling Russia from Human Rights Council One incident reported involves a 50-year-old woman who was raped and her husband killed, another had a 16-year-old raped in the street right in front of her 25-year-old sister with the invading soldiers yelling 'this will happen to every Nazi prostitute'. The same BBC report also mentions, that Lyudmyla Denisova, Ukraine's human rights ombudsman, said that other such examples are being documented. "About 25 girls and women aged 14 to 24 were systematically raped during the occupation in the basement of one house in Bucha. Nine of them are pregnant," she said. "Russian soldiers told them they would rape them to the point where they wouldn't want sexual contact with any man, to prevent them from having Ukrainian children." (With inputs from agencies)

'Sadists, rapists': Russian forces using rape as punishing tactic in Ukraine, UN women's body voices concern

It is hard to believe, but now impossible to deny, that the broad framework that kept much of the world stable and prospering since the end of the Cold War has been seriously fractured by Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. In ways we hadn’t fully appreciated, a lot of that framework rested on the West’s ability to coexist with Putin as he played “bad boy,” testing the limits of the world order but never breaching them at scale.

But with Putin’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, his indiscriminate crushing of its cities and mass killings of Ukrainian civilians, he went from “bad boy” to “war criminal.” And when the leader of Russia — a country that spans 11 time zones, with vast oil, gas and mineral resources and more nuclear warheads than anyone else — is a war criminal and must be henceforth treated as a pariah, the world as we’ve known it is profoundly changed. Nothing can work the same.

How does the world have an effective United Nations with a country led by a war criminal on the Security Council, who can veto every resolution? How does the world have any effective global initiative to combat climate change and not be able to collaborate with the biggest landmass country on the planet? How does the US&nbsp;work closely with Russia on the Iran nuclear deal when we have no trust with, and barely communicate with, Moscow? How do we isolate and try to weaken a country so big and so powerful, knowing that it could be more dangerous if it disintegrates than if it’s strong? How do we feed and fuel the world at reasonable prices when a sanctioned Russia is one of the world’s biggest exporters of oil, wheat and fertilizer?

The answer is that we don’t know. Which is another way of saying that we are entering a period of geopolitical and geoeconomic uncertainty the likes of which we have not known since 1989 — and possibly 1939.

And it promises only to get worse before it gets better, because Putin is now like a cornered animal. He not only got so much wrong in his Ukraine invasion; he produced the opposite of so much he was aiming to achieve, making him desperate for any war achievement, at any price, that can obscure this fact.

Putin said he had to go into Ukraine to push NATO away from Russia, and his war has not only reinvigorated what was a stagnating Western military alliance, it has also guaranteed NATO’s solidarity and weapons modernisation for as long as Putin is in power — and probably another generation after that.

Putin said he had to go into Ukraine to remove the Nazi clique ruling in Kyiv and bring both the Ukrainian people and their territory back into the arms of Mother Russia, where they naturally belonged and, in his imagination, longed to be. Instead, his invasion has made Ukrainians — even some formerly pro-Russia Ukrainians — bitter enemies of Russia for at least a generation and supercharged Ukraine’s desire to be independent of Russia and embedded in the European Union.

Putin thought that with a blitzkrieg takeover of Ukraine he would earn the proper respect from the West for Russia’s military prowess — ending the insults that Russia, with an economy smaller than the state of Texas’, was just “a gas station with nukes.” Instead, his army has been exposed as incompetent and barbaric and needing to enlist mercenaries from Syria and Chechnya just to hold its ground.

Having gotten so much wrong and having launched this war on his own initiative, Putin has to be desperate to show that he produced something — at least uncontested control of eastern Ukraine, from the Donbas region, south to Odesa on Ukraine’s Black Sea coast and connecting with Crimea. And he surely wants it by May 9, for Moscow’s giant annual Victory Day parade, marking Russia’s victory over the Nazis in World War II — the day when the Russian military recalls its greatest glory.

So, it appears that Putin is gearing up for a two-pronged strategy. First, he’s regrouping his ravaged forces and concentrating them on fully seizing and holding this smaller military prize. Second, he’s doubling down on systematic cruelty — the continued pummeling of Ukrainian towns with rockets and artillery to keep creating as many casualties and refugees and as much economic ruin as he can. He clearly hopes that the former will fracture the Ukrainian army, at least in the east, and the latter will fracture NATO, as its member states get overwhelmed by so many refugees and pressure Kyiv to give Putin whatever he wants to get him to stop.

Ukraine and NATO, therefore, need an effective counterstrategy.

It should have three pillars. The first is to support the Ukrainians with diplomacy if they want to negotiate with Putin — it’s their call — but also to support them with the best weaponry and training if they want to drive the Russian army off every inch of their territory. The second is to broadcast daily and loudly — in every way we can — that the world is at war “with Putin” and “not with the Russian people” — just the opposite of what Putin is telling them. And the third is for us to double down on ending our addiction to oil, Putin’s main source of income.

The hope is that the three together would set in motion forces inside Russia that topple Putin from power.

Yes, that is a high-risk-high-reward proposition. Putin’s downfall could lead to someone worse at the helm in the Kremlin. It could also lead to prolonged chaos and disintegration.

But if it leads to someone better, someone with just minimal decency and an ambition to rebuild Russia’s dignity and spheres of influence based on a new generation of Tchaikovskys, Rachmaninoffs, Sakharovs, Dostoyevskys and Sergey Brins — not yacht-owning oligarchs, cyberhackers and polonium-armed assassins — the whole world gets better. So many possibilities for healthy collaborations would be resurrected or forged.

Only the Russian people have the right and ability to change their leader. But it will not be easy because Putin, an ex-KGB officer — surrounded by many other former intelligence officers who are beholden to him — is nearly impossible to dislodge.

But here is one possible scenario: The Russian army is a prideful institution, and if it continues to suffer catastrophic defeats in Ukraine, I can imagine a situation in which either Putin wants to decapitate his army’s leadership — to make them the scapegoats for his failure in Ukraine — or the army, knowing this is coming, tries to oust Putin first. There never has been any love lost between the Russian military and the KGB/SVR/FSB security types surrounding Putin.

In sum, having the Russian people produce a better leader is a necessary condition for the world to produce a new, more resilient global order to replace the post-Cold War order, which Putin has now shattered. What is also necessary, though, is that America be a model of democracy and sustainability that others want to emulate.

When Ukrainians are making the ultimate sacrifice to hold onto every inch and ounce of their newly won freedom, is it too much to ask that Americans make the smallest sacrifices and compromises to hold on to our precious democratic inheritance?

It is hard to believe, but now impossible to deny, that the broad framework that kept much of the world stable and prospering since the end of the Cold War has been seriously fractured by Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.

It is hard to believe, but now impossible to deny, that the broad framework that kept much of the world stable and prospering since the end of the Cold War has been seriously fractured by Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. In ways we hadn’t fully appreciated, a lot of that framework rested on the West’s ability to coexist with Putin as he played “bad boy,” testing the limits of the world order but never breaching them at scale. But with Putin’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, his indiscriminate crushing of its cities and mass killings of Ukrainian civilians, he went from “bad boy” to “war criminal.” And when the leader of Russia — a country that spans 11 time zones, with vast oil, gas and mineral resources and more nuclear warheads than anyone else — is a war criminal and must be henceforth treated as a pariah, the world as we’ve known it is profoundly changed. Nothing can work the same. How does the world have an effective United Nations with a country led by a war criminal on the Security Council, who can veto every resolution? How does the world have any effective global initiative to combat climate change and not be able to collaborate with the biggest landmass country on the planet? How does the US work closely with Russia on the Iran nuclear deal when we have no trust with, and barely communicate with, Moscow? How do we isolate and try to weaken a country so big and so powerful, knowing that it could be more dangerous if it disintegrates than if it’s strong? How do we feed and fuel the world at reasonable prices when a sanctioned Russia is one of the world’s biggest exporters of oil, wheat and fertilizer? The answer is that we don’t know. Which is another way of saying that we are entering a period of geopolitical and geoeconomic uncertainty the likes of which we have not known since 1989 — and possibly 1939. And it promises only to get worse before it gets better, because Putin is now like a cornered animal. He not only got so much wrong in his Ukraine invasion; he produced the opposite of so much he was aiming to achieve, making him desperate for any war achievement, at any price, that can obscure this fact. Putin said he had to go into Ukraine to push NATO away from Russia, and his war has not only reinvigorated what was a stagnating Western military alliance, it has also guaranteed NATO’s solidarity and weapons modernisation for as long as Putin is in power — and probably another generation after that. Putin said he had to go into Ukraine to remove the Nazi clique ruling in Kyiv and bring both the Ukrainian people and their territory back into the arms of Mother Russia, where they naturally belonged and, in his imagination, longed to be. Instead, his invasion has made Ukrainians — even some formerly pro-Russia Ukrainians — bitter enemies of Russia for at least a generation and supercharged Ukraine’s desire to be independent of Russia and embedded in the European Union. Putin thought that with a blitzkrieg takeover of Ukraine he would earn the proper respect from the West for Russia’s military prowess — ending the insults that Russia, with an economy smaller than the state of Texas’, was just “a gas station with nukes.” Instead, his army has been exposed as incompetent and barbaric and needing to enlist mercenaries from Syria and Chechnya just to hold its ground. Having gotten so much wrong and having launched this war on his own initiative, Putin has to be desperate to show that he produced something — at least uncontested control of eastern Ukraine, from the Donbas region, south to Odesa on Ukraine’s Black Sea coast and connecting with Crimea. And he surely wants it by May 9, for Moscow’s giant annual Victory Day parade, marking Russia’s victory over the Nazis in World War II — the day when the Russian military recalls its greatest glory. So, it appears that Putin is gearing up for a two-pronged strategy. First, he’s regrouping his ravaged forces and concentrating them on fully seizing and holding this smaller military prize. Second, he’s doubling down on systematic cruelty — the continued pummeling of Ukrainian towns with rockets and artillery to keep creating as many casualties and refugees and as much economic ruin as he can. He clearly hopes that the former will fracture the Ukrainian army, at least in the east, and the latter will fracture NATO, as its member states get overwhelmed by so many refugees and pressure Kyiv to give Putin whatever he wants to get him to stop. Ukraine and NATO, therefore, need an effective counterstrategy. It should have three pillars. The first is to support the Ukrainians with diplomacy if they want to negotiate with Putin — it’s their call — but also to support them with the best weaponry and training if they want to drive the Russian army off every inch of their territory. The second is to broadcast daily and loudly — in every way we can — that the world is at war “with Putin” and “not with the Russian people” — just the opposite of what Putin is telling them. And the third is for us to double down on ending our addiction to oil, Putin’s main source of income. The hope is that the three together would set in motion forces inside Russia that topple Putin from power. Yes, that is a high-risk-high-reward proposition. Putin’s downfall could lead to someone worse at the helm in the Kremlin. It could also lead to prolonged chaos and disintegration. But if it leads to someone better, someone with just minimal decency and an ambition to rebuild Russia’s dignity and spheres of influence based on a new generation of Tchaikovskys, Rachmaninoffs, Sakharovs, Dostoyevskys and Sergey Brins — not yacht-owning oligarchs, cyberhackers and polonium-armed assassins — the whole world gets better. So many possibilities for healthy collaborations would be resurrected or forged. Only the Russian people have the right and ability to change their leader. But it will not be easy because Putin, an ex-KGB officer — surrounded by many other former intelligence officers who are beholden to him — is nearly impossible to dislodge. But here is one possible scenario: The Russian army is a prideful institution, and if it continues to suffer catastrophic defeats in Ukraine, I can imagine a situation in which either Putin wants to decapitate his army’s leadership — to make them the scapegoats for his failure in Ukraine — or the army, knowing this is coming, tries to oust Putin first. There never has been any love lost between the Russian military and the KGB/SVR/FSB security types surrounding Putin. In sum, having the Russian people produce a better leader is a necessary condition for the world to produce a new, more resilient global order to replace the post-Cold War order, which Putin has now shattered. What is also necessary, though, is that America be a model of democracy and sustainability that others want to emulate. When Ukrainians are making the ultimate sacrifice to hold onto every inch and ounce of their newly won freedom, is it too much to ask that Americans make the smallest sacrifices and compromises to hold on to our precious democratic inheritance?

How do we deal with a superpower led by a war criminal?

An “effective” embargo on Russian oil and gas can force Vladimir Putin to stop the war in Ukraine, the Russian president’s former chief economic adviser has told the BBC.

If Western countries “would try to implement a real embargo on oil and gas exports from Russia … I would bet that probably within a month or two, Russian military operations in Ukraine, probably will be ceased, will be stopped,” said Dr Andrei Illarionov.

“It’s one of the very effective instruments still in the possession of the Western countries.”

He claimed that the threats of oil ban by the Western countries have been not taken “seriously” by Putin.

Europe imports about 40 per cent of its gas and 27 per cent of its oil needs from Russia.

Despite threatening to cut imports, many European countries have continued to purchase fuel, indirectly helping Putin to fund his war in Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-prime-minister-boris-johnson-meets-ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-in-kyiv-469759" hreflang="en">UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson meets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv</a>

This was highlighted recently by top EU diplomat Josep Borrell who said, "A billion [euros] is what we pay Putin every day for the energy he supplies us.”

A plethora of economic sanctions has so far failed to stop Putin's war on Ukraine.

Dr Illarionov claimed that the Russian president was prepared to let the domestic economy hit hard by sanctions as he is blindsided by his “territorial ambitions”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-appoints-new-military-commander-in-ukraine-who-is-general-aleksandr-dvornikov-469926" hreflang="en">Putin appoints new military commander in Ukraine: Who is General Aleksandr&nbsp;Dvornikov?</a>

"His territorial ambitions, his imperial ambitions, are much more important than anything else, including the livelihood of the Russian population and of the financial situation in the country... even the financial state of his government," he was quoted as saying.

In the BBC interview, he also argued that a change of government is inevitable “sooner or later” as “it is absolutely impossible to have any positive future for Russia with the current political regime.”

(With inputs from agencies)

An “effective” embargo on Russian oil and gas can force Vladimir Putin to stop the war in Ukraine, the Russian president’s former chief economic adviser has told the BBC.

An “effective” embargo on Russian oil and gas can force Vladimir Putin to stop the war in Ukraine, the Russian president’s former chief economic adviser has told the BBC. If Western countries “would try to implement a real embargo on oil and gas exports from Russia … I would bet that probably within a month or two, Russian military operations in Ukraine, probably will be ceased, will be stopped,” said Dr Andrei Illarionov. “It’s one of the very effective instruments still in the possession of the Western countries.” He claimed that the threats of oil ban by the Western countries have been not taken “seriously” by Putin. Europe imports about 40 per cent of its gas and 27 per cent of its oil needs from Russia. Despite threatening to cut imports, many European countries have continued to purchase fuel, indirectly helping Putin to fund his war in Ukraine. Also read | UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson meets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv This was highlighted recently by top EU diplomat Josep Borrell who said, "A billion [euros] is what we pay Putin every day for the energy he supplies us.” A plethora of economic sanctions has so far failed to stop Putin's war on Ukraine. Dr Illarionov claimed that the Russian president was prepared to let the domestic economy hit hard by sanctions as he is blindsided by his “territorial ambitions”. Also read | Putin appoints new military commander in Ukraine: Who is General Aleksandr Dvornikov? "His territorial ambitions, his imperial ambitions, are much more important than anything else, including the livelihood of the Russian population and of the financial situation in the country... even the financial state of his government," he was quoted as saying. In the BBC interview, he also argued that a change of government is inevitable “sooner or later” as “it is absolutely impossible to have any positive future for Russia with the current political regime.” (With inputs from agencies)

Total embargo on Russian oil and gas can stop war within a month: Putin’s ex-economic advisor

Even as the UN General Assembly dealt Russia a devastating diplomatic blow by suspending it from the Human Rights Council, India remained neutral in the matter, abstaining from voting.

Russia, however,&nbsp;announced its voluntary withdrawal from the 47-member Council immediately following the vote on Thursday.

"We believe that no solution can be arrived at by shedding blood and at the cost of innocent lives. If India has chosen any side, it is the side of peace and it is for an immediate end to violence," T.S. Tirumurti, the Permanent Representative, remarked.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-conflict-borodyanka-destruction-more-horrific-than-bucha-says-zelensky-469254" hreflang="en">Ukraine-Russia conflict: Borodyanka destruction 'more horrific' than Bucha, says Zelensky</a>

He explained that India was abstaining for both substantive and procedural reasons.

Simultaneously, New Delhi, which is also a member of the Council, refused to vote for the suspension despite pressure from the US and the West.

India has abstained for the eighth time on UN actions relating to Ukraine, since January.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-united-nations-to-vote-on-suspending-russia-from-human-rights-council-469018" hreflang="en">Ukraine war: United Nations to vote on suspending Russia from Human Rights Council</a>

"Recent reports of civilian killings in Bucha are deeply disturbing. We have unequivocally condemned these killings and support the call for an independent investigation", Tirumurti remarked.

He did, however, say about the resolution, "we firmly believe that all decisions should be taken fully respecting due process, as all our democratic polity and structures enjoin us to do. This applies to international organisations as well, particularly the UN."

Several countries abstained, claiming that suspending Russia before an investigation into the atrocities authorised by the Council was complete was premature.

Watch |&nbsp;India's neutrality on test at United Nations General Assembly

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Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brazil, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Malaysia, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates were among those who abstained.

Libya was the only Member State to be suspended from the Geneva-based Human Rights Council in 2011 when the General Assembly passed an unprecedented resolution expressing deep concern about the human rights situation in the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya in the wake of Muammar Al-Qadhafi's violent crackdown on anti-government protestors.

(With inputs from agencies)

Even as the UN General Assembly dealt Russia a devastating diplomatic blow by suspending it from the Human Rights Council, India remained neutral in the matter, abstaining from voting.

Even as the UN General Assembly dealt Russia a devastating diplomatic blow by suspending it from the Human Rights Council, India remained neutral in the matter, abstaining from voting. Russia, however, announced its voluntary withdrawal from the 47-member Council immediately following the vote on Thursday. "We believe that no solution can be arrived at by shedding blood and at the cost of innocent lives. If India has chosen any side, it is the side of peace and it is for an immediate end to violence," T.S. Tirumurti, the Permanent Representative, remarked. Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: Borodyanka destruction 'more horrific' than Bucha, says Zelensky He explained that India was abstaining for both substantive and procedural reasons. Simultaneously, New Delhi, which is also a member of the Council, refused to vote for the suspension despite pressure from the US and the West. India has abstained for the eighth time on UN actions relating to Ukraine, since January. Also read | Ukraine war: United Nations to vote on suspending Russia from Human Rights Council "Recent reports of civilian killings in Bucha are deeply disturbing. We have unequivocally condemned these killings and support the call for an independent investigation", Tirumurti remarked. He did, however, say about the resolution, "we firmly believe that all decisions should be taken fully respecting due process, as all our democratic polity and structures enjoin us to do. This applies to international organisations as well, particularly the UN." Several countries abstained, claiming that suspending Russia before an investigation into the atrocities authorised by the Council was complete was premature. Watch | India's neutrality on test at United Nations General Assembly Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brazil, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Malaysia, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates were among those who abstained. Libya was the only Member State to be suspended from the Geneva-based Human Rights Council in 2011 when the General Assembly passed an unprecedented resolution expressing deep concern about the human rights situation in the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya in the wake of Muammar Al-Qadhafi's violent crackdown on anti-government protestors. (With inputs from agencies)

Why did India abstain from voting against Russia in UNGA?

British rock band Pink Floyd reunited after what seems like ages to release a song in support of Ukraine. The song was released under the group's banner 'Hey Hey Rise Up'.&nbsp; 
 
What more! The newly released song features vocals by Ukrainian singer Andriy Khlyvniuk from his video singing a folk song in the capital city of Kyiv, which became the unofficial anthem amid the Ukraine-Russia war. 
 
The proceeds of the song reportedly will go for humanitarian relief. The lead vocals have been provided by a Ukrainian Singer and not the band's lead vocalist David Gilmour. The song infuses Cappella vocals from an Instagram post shot in Kyiv. &nbsp; 
 
"We, like so many, have been feeling the fury and the frustration of this vile act of an independent, peaceful democratic country being invaded and having its people murdered by one of the world`s major powers," Pink Floyd's David Gilmour tweeted. 
 
The music for the new song was recorded on March 30 by longtime members Gilmour and Nick Mason, along with longtime bass player Guy Pratt and keyboardist Nitin Sawhney.

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Here is the official video for 'Hey Hey Rise Up', Pink Floyd’s new Ukraine fundraiser feat Andriy Khlyvnyuk of Boombox. Stream / download from midnight. <a href="https://t.co/4U3P3WAQOZ">https://t.co/4U3P3WAQOZ</a>
— Pink Floyd (@pinkfloyd) <a href="https://twitter.com/pinkfloyd/status/1512169371573051399?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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1/3 Tonight at midnight, Pink Floyd will release a new song, 'Hey Hey Rise Up', which sees David Gilmour and Nick Mason joined by Guy Pratt &amp; Nitin Sawhney, with an extraordinary vocal by Andriy Khlyvnyuk of Ukrainian band Boombox. 
Listen/download at <a href="https://t.co/i1l92D3AYU">https://t.co/i1l92D3AYU</a>
— Pink Floyd (@pinkfloyd) <a href="https://twitter.com/pinkfloyd/status/1512088273157455873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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2/3 Gilmour, who has a Ukrainian daughter-in-law &amp; grandchildren: "We, like so many, have been feeling the fury and the frustration of this vile act of an independent, peaceful democratic country being invaded and having its people murdered by one of the world's major powers".
— Pink Floyd (@pinkfloyd) <a href="https://twitter.com/pinkfloyd/status/1512088467378900994?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The vocalist grafted into the new Pink Floyd track is Andriy Khlyvnyuk of the Ukrainian band Boombox. 
 
They have been taken from an Instagram video he posted five weeks ago in which he sings a World War I-era Ukrainian protest song, 'The Red Viburnum In The Meadow', which has seen a revival as a cry against the Russian war upon Ukraine. 
 
The final line of the song translates as "Hey hey, rise up and rejoice". The band is likely to release a music video too shortly.&nbsp; 
 
(With agency inputs)

British rock band Pink Floyd reunited after what seems like ages to release a song in support of Ukraine. The song was released under the group's banner 'Hey Hey Rise Up'.

British rock band Pink Floyd reunited after what seems like ages to release a song in support of Ukraine. The song was released under the group's banner 'Hey Hey Rise Up'. What more! The newly released song features vocals by Ukrainian singer Andriy Khlyvniuk from his video singing a folk song in the capital city of Kyiv, which became the unofficial anthem amid the Ukraine-Russia war. The proceeds of the song reportedly will go for humanitarian relief. The lead vocals have been provided by a Ukrainian Singer and not the band's lead vocalist David Gilmour. The song infuses Cappella vocals from an Instagram post shot in Kyiv. "We, like so many, have been feeling the fury and the frustration of this vile act of an independent, peaceful democratic country being invaded and having its people murdered by one of the world`s major powers," Pink Floyd's David Gilmour tweeted. The music for the new song was recorded on March 30 by longtime members Gilmour and Nick Mason, along with longtime bass player Guy Pratt and keyboardist Nitin Sawhney. Here is the official video for 'Hey Hey Rise Up', Pink Floyd’s new Ukraine fundraiser feat Andriy Khlyvnyuk of Boombox. Stream / download from midnight. https://t.co/4U3P3WAQOZ — Pink Floyd (@pinkfloyd) April 7, 2022 × 1/3 Tonight at midnight, Pink Floyd will release a new song, 'Hey Hey Rise Up', which sees David Gilmour and Nick Mason joined by Guy Pratt & Nitin Sawhney, with an extraordinary vocal by Andriy Khlyvnyuk of Ukrainian band Boombox. Listen/download at https://t.co/i1l92D3AYU — Pink Floyd (@pinkfloyd) April 7, 2022 × 2/3 Gilmour, who has a Ukrainian daughter-in-law & grandchildren: "We, like so many, have been feeling the fury and the frustration of this vile act of an independent, peaceful democratic country being invaded and having its people murdered by one of the world's major powers". — Pink Floyd (@pinkfloyd) April 7, 2022 × The vocalist grafted into the new Pink Floyd track is Andriy Khlyvnyuk of the Ukrainian band Boombox. They have been taken from an Instagram video he posted five weeks ago in which he sings a World War I-era Ukrainian protest song, 'The Red Viburnum In The Meadow', which has seen a revival as a cry against the Russian war upon Ukraine. The final line of the song translates as "Hey hey, rise up and rejoice". The band is likely to release a music video too shortly. (With agency inputs)

Pink Floyd reunites after decades to create a song in support of Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday that conditions in Borodyanka were worse than in Bucha, where Russia has been accused of killing civilians.

Referring to the situation as&nbsp;"significantly more dreadful", he added that the city has a considerably higher number of victims targetted by&nbsp;"Russian occupiers"&nbsp;than Bucha.

"The work to clear the rubble in Borodyanka has begun ... It's significantly more dreadful there. Even more victims from the Russian occupiers," said&nbsp;Zelensky in a video that was&nbsp;posted&nbsp;on Telegram.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bucha-killings-are-fake-propaganda-says-putins-ally-dmitry-medvedev-468582" hreflang="en">Bucha killings are fake propaganda says Putin's ally Dmitry Medvedev</a>

Borodyanka is located about 25 km from Bucha.

He offered no further details or evidence that Russia was responsible for the deaths of civilians in the city.

The alleged killing of civilians in the city of Bucha has been largely condemned by the West as war crimes with countries lobbying for tougher sanctions against Russia.

Multiple countries have also come together and expelled Moscow's diplomats, accusing them of spying.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russia-ukraine-conflict-these-eu-allies-have-expelled-around-150-russian-diplomats-468612">Russia-Ukraine conflict: These EU allies have expelled around 150 Russian diplomats</a>

According to local authorities, more than 300 people were killed by Russian forces in Bucha, 35 kilometres northwest of the capital Kyiv, and at least&nbsp;50 of them&nbsp;were executed.
<gwofw>
However,&nbsp;Moscow has denied that its forces have committed any atrocities against civilians. The country says that the gruesome&nbsp;images of bodies in Bucha were staged by the Ukraine government so as to derail peace negotiations and justify additional sanctions against Moscow.

Zelensky has also alleged similar "war crimes" in the city of Mariupol.

Reuters quotes him as asking&nbsp;"and what will happen when the world learns the whole truth about what the Russian military did in Mariupol?"&nbsp;

&nbsp;

"There, on almost every street, is what the world saw in Bucha and other towns in the Kyiv region after the withdrawal of Russian troops."

Watch |&nbsp;The US commits more weapons to Ukraine &amp; ends normal trade with Russia

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-us-commits-more-weapons-to-ukraine-ends-normal-trade-with-russia-469250/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Since the beginning of this attack,&nbsp;Moscow has claimed that one of its aims is to "liberate" the largely Russian-speaking places like Mariupol from a threat of genocide by Ukrainian nationalists, who it accuses of using civilians as human shields.

The Ukrainian President&nbsp;Zelensky has rejected these&nbsp;claims, labelling them as a baseless pretext for Russia's invasion.

(With inputs from agencies)
</gwofw>

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday that conditions in Borodyanka were worse than in Bucha, where Russia has been accused of killing civilians.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday that conditions in Borodyanka were worse than in Bucha, where Russia has been accused of killing civilians. Referring to the situation as "significantly more dreadful", he added that the city has a considerably higher number of victims targetted by "Russian occupiers" than Bucha. "The work to clear the rubble in Borodyanka has begun ... It's significantly more dreadful there. Even more victims from the Russian occupiers," said Zelensky in a video that was posted on Telegram. Also read | Bucha killings are fake propaganda says Putin's ally Dmitry Medvedev Borodyanka is located about 25 km from Bucha. He offered no further details or evidence that Russia was responsible for the deaths of civilians in the city. The alleged killing of civilians in the city of Bucha has been largely condemned by the West as war crimes with countries lobbying for tougher sanctions against Russia. Multiple countries have also come together and expelled Moscow's diplomats, accusing them of spying. Also read | Russia-Ukraine conflict: These EU allies have expelled around 150 Russian diplomats According to local authorities, more than 300 people were killed by Russian forces in Bucha, 35 kilometres northwest of the capital Kyiv, and at least 50 of them were executed. However, Moscow has denied that its forces have committed any atrocities against civilians. The country says that the gruesome images of bodies in Bucha were staged by the Ukraine government so as to derail peace negotiations and justify additional sanctions against Moscow. Zelensky has also alleged similar "war crimes" in the city of Mariupol. Reuters quotes him as asking "and what will happen when the world learns the whole truth about what the Russian military did in Mariupol?" "There, on almost every street, is what the world saw in Bucha and other towns in the Kyiv region after the withdrawal of Russian troops." Watch | The US commits more weapons to Ukraine & ends normal trade with Russia Since the beginning of this attack, Moscow has claimed that one of its aims is to "liberate" the largely Russian-speaking places like Mariupol from a threat of genocide by Ukrainian nationalists, who it accuses of using civilians as human shields. The Ukrainian President Zelensky has rejected these claims, labelling them as a baseless pretext for Russia's invasion. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine-Russia conflict: Borodyanka destruction 'more horrific' than Bucha, says Zelensky

In face of the global energy shortage that the world is experiencing due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, the International Energy Agency (IEA) has announced that its member countries will be releasing a whopping 120 million barrels of crude oil reserves over a period of six months.

As per IEA the "unanimous" agreement to release the stock was reached by the organisation's 31 members on April 1. As per a Reuters report, about half of the 120 million barrels will be contributed by the United States.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-says-us-ready-to-become-indias-reliable-supplier-to-counter-russia-dependence-468962">White House says US ready to become India's 'reliable supplier' to counter Russia dependence</a>

This is the largest stock release in the history of organisation and was confirmed by the Governing Board of the IEA as reported by Xinhua news agency.

Earlier IEA had released 62.7 million barrels of crude oil on March 1st and this recently announced release is the second release of reserves since the conflict in Ukraine started on February 24th.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/white-house-says-india-imports-only-1-2-of-russias-total-energy-imports-468628">White House says India imports only 1-2% of Russia's total energy imports</a>

The release of crude reserves aims to drive down the rising fuel prices around the globe.

However, experts and analysts have warned that even with the emergency reserve releases oil supply remains tight.

India, which is one of the largest importers of oil has announced that it is evaluating ways to support IEA's move.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Petrol, Diesel prices soar in India

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-petrol-diesel-prices-soar-in-india-468944/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"In the interest of collaborating with like minded countries on these positive initiatives, Government of India is examining what it can do to support these actions."&nbsp;

Before the Russian attack on Ukraine, IEA members held a collective emergency stockpile of 1.5 billion barrels of crude.

(With inputs from agencies)

In face of the global energy shortage that the world is experiencing due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, the International Energy Agency (IEA) has announced that its member countries will be releasing a whopping 120 million barrels of crude oil reserves over a period of six months.

In face of the global energy shortage that the world is experiencing due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, the International Energy Agency (IEA) has announced that its member countries will be releasing a whopping 120 million barrels of crude oil reserves over a period of six months. As per IEA the "unanimous" agreement to release the stock was reached by the organisation's 31 members on April 1. As per a Reuters report, about half of the 120 million barrels will be contributed by the United States. Also read | White House says US ready to become India's 'reliable supplier' to counter Russia dependence This is the largest stock release in the history of organisation and was confirmed by the Governing Board of the IEA as reported by Xinhua news agency. Earlier IEA had released 62.7 million barrels of crude oil on March 1st and this recently announced release is the second release of reserves since the conflict in Ukraine started on February 24th. Also read | White House says India imports only 1-2% of Russia's total energy imports The release of crude reserves aims to drive down the rising fuel prices around the globe. However, experts and analysts have warned that even with the emergency reserve releases oil supply remains tight. India, which is one of the largest importers of oil has announced that it is evaluating ways to support IEA's move. Watch | Gravitas: Petrol, Diesel prices soar in India "In the interest of collaborating with like minded countries on these positive initiatives, Government of India is examining what it can do to support these actions." Before the Russian attack on Ukraine, IEA members held a collective emergency stockpile of 1.5 billion barrels of crude. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid global energy crisis, IEA to release 120 million barrels of crude, India supports decision

La Ciotat Shipyards, located in a tranquil area of the French Riviera, is preparing bills for mooring costs for the towering white superyacht Amore Vero but is unsure who to send them to.

Reuters reports that the towering 86-metre (282-foot) yacht according to the France finance ministry belongs to a business owned by Russian President Vladimir Putin's closest allies Igor Sechin, the head of Russian state oil major Rosneft. Sechin is one of the many individuals facing sanctions in lieu of the&nbsp;Russian attack on Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-russia-conflict-here-are-the-top-russian-oligarchs-hit-with-eu-sanctions-458882">Ukraine-Russia conflict: Here are the top Russian oligarchs hit with EU sanctions</a>

France has legally seized the Amore Vero, according to Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire, a move that grants the state custody of the yacht while leaving the costs to the owner.

According to two companies that service the yacht, authorities have not informed third parties of the vessel's status, leaving it unclear who is responsible for its upkeep. An executive at La Ciotat Shipyards said the company was worried about how it would be paid as debts piled up.

Crew&nbsp;wages, repairs, fuel, food, insurance, berth fees, and onshore utilities can all add up to 10 per cent&nbsp;of the value of the largest superyachts, and it might amount to millions of dollars per month for some vessels.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-inflation-hits-fresh-record-at-611-per-cent-468289" hreflang="en">Russia-Ukraine crisis causes Turkish inflation to hit fresh record of 61.1 per cent</a>

The financial riches of oligarchs is mostly unaffected in the European Union, but European states have restricted or seized physical assets, including houses and at least 11 superyachts.

The situation surrounding&nbsp;Amore Vero highlights the challenges authorities encounter as they target the assets of Putin's supporters.

Frozen assets in Italy are handled by a publicly nominated administrator, with the state property agency covering maintenance costs. The owner must reimburse them later, or the state can sell the item to recuperate its costs.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukrainian Crisis: Kharkiv becomes the worst-affected city in the country

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukrainian-crisis-kharkiv-becomes-the-worst-affected-city-in-the-country-468343/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In France and Spain, the owner is still responsible for the running costs of a 'frozen' or confiscated boat. However, with the sanctions these owners face, they are often unable to make payments due to bank account blocks.

Another concern for governments, according to Giannis Markogiannis, a Greek lawyer specialising in international yachting law, insurance, and taxation, is that yachts may be held wrongfully.

Giannis&nbsp;noted that if the ownership of a confiscated yacht could not be linked to a person on the sanctions list, it had to be released, leaving the state accountable for any deterioration in condition or damage that occurred during its immobilisation. Owners may potentially file a lawsuit for lost charter earnings or suspension of use.

"We're continuing to invoice," said Alice Boisseau, communications officer for La Ciotat Shipyards to Reuters. However, when asked who would pay the bill, she said they didn't know.

(With inputs from agencies)

La Ciotat Shipyards, located in a tranquil area of the French Riviera, is preparing bills for mooring costs for the towering white superyacht Amore Vero but is unsure who to send them to.

La Ciotat Shipyards, located in a tranquil area of the French Riviera, is preparing bills for mooring costs for the towering white superyacht Amore Vero but is unsure who to send them to. Reuters reports that the towering 86-metre (282-foot) yacht according to the France finance ministry belongs to a business owned by Russian President Vladimir Putin's closest allies Igor Sechin, the head of Russian state oil major Rosneft. Sechin is one of the many individuals facing sanctions in lieu of the Russian attack on Ukraine. Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: Here are the top Russian oligarchs hit with EU sanctions France has legally seized the Amore Vero, according to Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire, a move that grants the state custody of the yacht while leaving the costs to the owner. According to two companies that service the yacht, authorities have not informed third parties of the vessel's status, leaving it unclear who is responsible for its upkeep. An executive at La Ciotat Shipyards said the company was worried about how it would be paid as debts piled up. Crew wages, repairs, fuel, food, insurance, berth fees, and onshore utilities can all add up to 10 per cent of the value of the largest superyachts, and it might amount to millions of dollars per month for some vessels. Also read | Russia-Ukraine crisis causes Turkish inflation to hit fresh record of 61.1 per cent The financial riches of oligarchs is mostly unaffected in the European Union, but European states have restricted or seized physical assets, including houses and at least 11 superyachts. The situation surrounding Amore Vero highlights the challenges authorities encounter as they target the assets of Putin's supporters. Frozen assets in Italy are handled by a publicly nominated administrator, with the state property agency covering maintenance costs. The owner must reimburse them later, or the state can sell the item to recuperate its costs. Watch | Russia-Ukrainian Crisis: Kharkiv becomes the worst-affected city in the country In France and Spain, the owner is still responsible for the running costs of a 'frozen' or confiscated boat. However, with the sanctions these owners face, they are often unable to make payments due to bank account blocks. Another concern for governments, according to Giannis Markogiannis, a Greek lawyer specialising in international yachting law, insurance, and taxation, is that yachts may be held wrongfully. Giannis noted that if the ownership of a confiscated yacht could not be linked to a person on the sanctions list, it had to be released, leaving the state accountable for any deterioration in condition or damage that occurred during its immobilisation. Owners may potentially file a lawsuit for lost charter earnings or suspension of use. "We're continuing to invoice," said Alice Boisseau, communications officer for La Ciotat Shipyards to Reuters. However, when asked who would pay the bill, she said they didn't know. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine: Upkeep of yachts seized from Putin's allies rack up millions in bills, who will bear the cost?

Russia-Ukraine war: Young Ukrainians in Greece confront the trauma they've suffered

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