Russia-Ukraine conflict: These EU allies have expelled around 150 Russian diplomats

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (April 5) said that negotiation with Russia is the only option left to end the ongoing war, which has left the country in tatters. But will the talks happen?&nbsp;

During an interview with Ukrainian journalists broadcast on national television, Zelensky said, "All of us, including myself, will perceive even the possibility of negotiations as a challenge."&nbsp;

He added that the "challenge is internal". During the conversation, the Ukrainian President said, "First of all, one's own, human challenge. Then, when you pull yourself together, and you have to do it, I think that we have no other choice."&nbsp;

As he addressed the media outlet, Zelensky spoke about how Russian troops carried out extra-judicial killings in the town of Bucha west of the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-mums-write-family-contacts-on-bodies-of-their-babies-and-europe-is-still-discussing-gas-468513">'Ukrainian mums write family contacts on bodies of their babies and Europe is still discussing gas'</a>

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All of us will perceive even the possibility of negotiations – I am not even talking about the content of the talks – as a challenge. The challenge is internal, first of all, one's own, human challenge. What shall we do now? Then, when you pull yourself together, and you have to do it, I think that I have no other choice" -&nbsp;Zelensky
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"The most difficult thing is to talk about what they (Russians) have done, recognize them as an enemy, know that it is a Russian war against Ukraine. It needs to be recognized. We believe it is genocide. We believe they must be held accountable for it. And having such a stance, we must look for a possibility to meet. And when we meet, we must find a solution. And solution cannot mean loss of our territory. I believe we must set such a goal for the talks. And then we will see what happens. There is a chance that the meeting will not happen. It is possible" -&nbsp;Zelensky

"Russia has its own view of Donbas while we have ours. For that reason, I had a simple proposal. I believe we will not be able to reach an agreement on all points at once. It is impossible even if we hold talks. It is impossible" -&nbsp;Zelensky
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swastika-shaped-burns-ukrainian-mp-claims-russian-soldiers-raped-and-branded-girls-shows-gory-image-468336">'Swastika-shaped burns': Ukrainian MP claims Russian soldiers raped and branded girls, shows gory image</a>

Mass graves were found in Bucha and some of the dead bodies were lying on the streets. Authorities claimed that women and young girls were raped, tortured and then killed. The bodies of some girls were even branded.&nbsp;

Refuting the claims of brutality, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said the reports of civilian killings in Bucha were "fakes" aimed at discrediting Russia.&nbsp;

Moscow has also said it would present "empirical evidence" to a meeting of the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday (April 5) to provide credible information that its forces were not involved in any killings.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Zelensky said that the events in Bucha were unforgivable but Ukraine and Russia should take the difficult option of pursuing talks.&nbsp;

Important to note that the talks are going via video link, reported the Russian news agency Interfax citing a deputy Russian foreign minister as saying.&nbsp;

So far, there's no official comment on whether Russian President Vladimir Putin is interested in holding talks with his Ukrainian counterpart.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russian invasion: 4.2 million Ukrainians displaced in 40 days

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(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (April 5) said that negotiation with Russia is the only option left to end the ongoing war, which has left the country in tatters.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (April 5) said that negotiation with Russia is the only option left to end the ongoing war, which has left the country in tatters. But will the talks happen? During an interview with Ukrainian journalists broadcast on national television, Zelensky said, "All of us, including myself, will perceive even the possibility of negotiations as a challenge." He added that the "challenge is internal". During the conversation, the Ukrainian President said, "First of all, one's own, human challenge. Then, when you pull yourself together, and you have to do it, I think that we have no other choice." As he addressed the media outlet, Zelensky spoke about how Russian troops carried out extra-judicial killings in the town of Bucha west of the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. ALSO READ | 'Ukrainian mums write family contacts on bodies of their babies and Europe is still discussing gas' All of us will perceive even the possibility of negotiations – I am not even talking about the content of the talks – as a challenge. The challenge is internal, first of all, one's own, human challenge. What shall we do now? Then, when you pull yourself together, and you have to do it, I think that I have no other choice" - Zelensky "The most difficult thing is to talk about what they (Russians) have done, recognize them as an enemy, know that it is a Russian war against Ukraine. It needs to be recognized. We believe it is genocide. We believe they must be held accountable for it. And having such a stance, we must look for a possibility to meet. And when we meet, we must find a solution. And solution cannot mean loss of our territory. I believe we must set such a goal for the talks. And then we will see what happens. There is a chance that the meeting will not happen. It is possible" - Zelensky "Russia has its own view of Donbas while we have ours. For that reason, I had a simple proposal. I believe we will not be able to reach an agreement on all points at once. It is impossible even if we hold talks. It is impossible" - Zelensky ALSO READ | 'Swastika-shaped burns': Ukrainian MP claims Russian soldiers raped and branded girls, shows gory image Mass graves were found in Bucha and some of the dead bodies were lying on the streets. Authorities claimed that women and young girls were raped, tortured and then killed. The bodies of some girls were even branded. Refuting the claims of brutality, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said the reports of civilian killings in Bucha were "fakes" aimed at discrediting Russia. Moscow has also said it would present "empirical evidence" to a meeting of the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday (April 5) to provide credible information that its forces were not involved in any killings. Meanwhile, Zelensky said that the events in Bucha were unforgivable but Ukraine and Russia should take the difficult option of pursuing talks. Important to note that the talks are going via video link, reported the Russian news agency Interfax citing a deputy Russian foreign minister as saying. So far, there's no official comment on whether Russian President Vladimir Putin is interested in holding talks with his Ukrainian counterpart. WATCH | Russian invasion: 4.2 million Ukrainians displaced in 40 days × (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky says Ukraine had 'no option but to negotiate' with Russia to end war. But will Putin hold talks?

Emphasizing the "trust which underpins the Australia India relationship", Australian High Commissioner to India has said that the two countries "share the Indian Ocean" and "at our heart...are both Indo-Pacific nations."&nbsp;

The comments come even as both sides have seen increased engagement, including the signing of the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement over the weekend.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rice-from-india-to-arrive-in-the-country-soon-says-indian-envoy-to-sri-lanka-gopal-baglay-468358" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Rice from India to arrive in the country soon,' says Indian envoy to Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay</a>

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison met each other virtually three times in the last month; the QUAD meet, summit and the signing of the trade pact.&nbsp;

The High commissioner explained, "Our geography places us squarely in the middle of the world’s strategic centre of gravity. And as the international system becomes more multi-polar, the region’s resilience will be tested".

This comes even as an ever-aggressive China has been a worry for both countries.&nbsp;

Without mentioning China's name, he said, "there is a panda in the room" pointing to the border tensions India has been facing and the trade coercion that Australia faces which has also been the driving force behind Indo-Australia defence ties.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-indias-sc-resumes-physical-hearing-after-2-years-lets-look-at-key-rulings-that-marked-lockdown-468215" hreflang="en">As India’s SC resumes physical hearing after 2 years, let’s look at key rulings that marked lockdown</a>

The 2020 Virtual Summit saw both sides deepening military cooperation through a Mutual Logistics Support Agreement – allowing more interoperability.&nbsp;

Australia is part of the Malabar exercises, and the Australian Navy also participates in India's largest naval exercise, Milan. Additionally, an Australian Navy liaison officer has been deputed at India's Information Fusion Centre. Canberra also has a 2+2 ministerial dialogue with Delhi.

At the 2022 Australia-India Institute Oration, in response to a question over Indian position on the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the High Commissioner said, "Australia understands India's position.." explaining, "some of my friends and I have differences but I respect their right to support another football team, there right to send their children to this school, my right to send children to that school...so it has not got in the way, that way clear in the quad meeting where each country made the position clear at Ukraine"

Watch |&nbsp;India goods trade crosses $1 trillion

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Amid the invasion, India has abstained from various resolutions on the Ukraine-Russia war at the United Nations. While Delhi has called for respecting the UN Charter, international law and territorial integrity and sovereignty of countries, it has also asked Moscow and Kyiv to have direct talks to cease hostilities.&nbsp;

Western countries have been asking India to strongly condemn Russian action, but Moscow has been a key support of Delhi at international forums and a key defence supplier as well.

The High commissioner said, "I get the fact, 65 years ago Prime Minister of India, an Indian PM 65 years ago....outlined a sensible doctrine where he said India was not in the business of condemnation but in the business of creating conditions in which solutions can be found, so keeping avenues open, dialogue open, got to be a good thing"

Asked about Canberra's position on Russia at the G20 grouping, HC underlined his government's position, saying, "we will continue to lobby that Putin should not be at G20. That is Australian government's position, and that is the position of number of other governments and that will be resolved by the G20 themselves."&nbsp;

Indonesia is the chair of the grouping this year and will hold the summit in November. Several western countries have been in touch with Jakarta for Russia's suspension from the economic grouping, but this will require a consensus that will be hard to achieve.

Emphasizing the "trust which underpins the Australia India relationship", Australian High Commissioner to India has said that the two countries "share the Indian Ocean" and "at our heart.

Emphasizing the "trust which underpins the Australia India relationship", Australian High Commissioner to India has said that the two countries "share the Indian Ocean" and "at our heart...are both Indo-Pacific nations." The comments come even as both sides have seen increased engagement, including the signing of the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement over the weekend. Also read | Exclusive: 'Rice from India to arrive in the country soon,' says Indian envoy to Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison met each other virtually three times in the last month; the QUAD meet, summit and the signing of the trade pact. The High commissioner explained, "Our geography places us squarely in the middle of the world’s strategic centre of gravity. And as the international system becomes more multi-polar, the region’s resilience will be tested". This comes even as an ever-aggressive China has been a worry for both countries. Without mentioning China's name, he said, "there is a panda in the room" pointing to the border tensions India has been facing and the trade coercion that Australia faces which has also been the driving force behind Indo-Australia defence ties. Also read | As India’s SC resumes physical hearing after 2 years, let’s look at key rulings that marked lockdown The 2020 Virtual Summit saw both sides deepening military cooperation through a Mutual Logistics Support Agreement – allowing more interoperability. Australia is part of the Malabar exercises, and the Australian Navy also participates in India's largest naval exercise, Milan. Additionally, an Australian Navy liaison officer has been deputed at India's Information Fusion Centre. Canberra also has a 2+2 ministerial dialogue with Delhi. At the 2022 Australia-India Institute Oration, in response to a question over Indian position on the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the High Commissioner said, "Australia understands India's position.." explaining, "some of my friends and I have differences but I respect their right to support another football team, there right to send their children to this school, my right to send children to that school...so it has not got in the way, that way clear in the quad meeting where each country made the position clear at Ukraine" Watch | India goods trade crosses $1 trillion Amid the invasion, India has abstained from various resolutions on the Ukraine-Russia war at the United Nations. While Delhi has called for respecting the UN Charter, international law and territorial integrity and sovereignty of countries, it has also asked Moscow and Kyiv to have direct talks to cease hostilities. Western countries have been asking India to strongly condemn Russian action, but Moscow has been a key support of Delhi at international forums and a key defence supplier as well. The High commissioner said, "I get the fact, 65 years ago Prime Minister of India, an Indian PM 65 years ago....outlined a sensible doctrine where he said India was not in the business of condemnation but in the business of creating conditions in which solutions can be found, so keeping avenues open, dialogue open, got to be a good thing" Asked about Canberra's position on Russia at the G20 grouping, HC underlined his government's position, saying, "we will continue to lobby that Putin should not be at G20. That is Australian government's position, and that is the position of number of other governments and that will be resolved by the G20 themselves." Indonesia is the chair of the grouping this year and will hold the summit in November. Several western countries have been in touch with Jakarta for Russia's suspension from the economic grouping, but this will require a consensus that will be hard to achieve.

India and Australia share the Indian Ocean, says Australian Envoy to India Barry O’Farrell

On Friday, Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov said that "I cannot imagine taking a stand as India is under pressure. India's foreign policy is built upon legitimate national interests. "

Lavrov was speaking during a press conference after meeting the Indian foreign minister in New Delhi.

"I believe that Indian foreign policies are characterised by independence and a concentration on real national legitimate interests. The Russian Federation follows the same policy, which makes us good friends and loyal partners as large countries," said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

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<h5>Talking about the anti-Russia propaganda mechanism, he said that for many years, there has been an anti-Russia campaign and we are trying to counter that. We are fine. Our partners are also fine.</h5>
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<h5>Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said that if India wants to buy something from us, we are willing to talk about it and work out a mutually beneficial agreement.</h5>
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Earlier in the day, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Friday, a day after the US warned of repercussions if Moscow tried to "circumvent" US sanctions.

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Concluded talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. 
 
Discussed bilateral cooperation and developments in Ukraine, Afghanistan, Iran, Indo-Pacific, ASEAN and the Indian sub-continent. <a href="https://t.co/jAlrpol5Gt">pic.twitter.com/jAlrpol5Gt</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1509822829428371458?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The high-level meetings took place in the wake of reports that India may buy larger quantities of discounted Russian oil, and both sides were eager to establish a ruble-rupee trading agreement.

After a two-day visit to China, Russia's foreign minister arrived in India.

Mr. Lavrov is in India at the same time as US Deputy National Security Advisor Daleep Singh and British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss.

Watch | Lavrov lauds India for 'balanced' stance, 'West is linking all international crisis to Ukraine'

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(With inputs from agencies)

On Friday, Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov said that "I cannot imagine taking a stand as India is under pressure. India's foreign policy is built upon legitimate national interests.

On Friday, Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov said that "I cannot imagine taking a stand as India is under pressure. India's foreign policy is built upon legitimate national interests. " Lavrov was speaking during a press conference after meeting the Indian foreign minister in New Delhi. "I believe that Indian foreign policies are characterised by independence and a concentration on real national legitimate interests. The Russian Federation follows the same policy, which makes us good friends and loyal partners as large countries," said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. Talking about the anti-Russia propaganda mechanism, he said that for many years, there has been an anti-Russia campaign and we are trying to counter that. We are fine. Our partners are also fine. × Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said that if India wants to buy something from us, we are willing to talk about it and work out a mutually beneficial agreement. × Earlier in the day, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Friday, a day after the US warned of repercussions if Moscow tried to "circumvent" US sanctions. Concluded talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Discussed bilateral cooperation and developments in Ukraine, Afghanistan, Iran, Indo-Pacific, ASEAN and the Indian sub-continent. pic.twitter.com/jAlrpol5Gt — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) April 1, 2022 × The high-level meetings took place in the wake of reports that India may buy larger quantities of discounted Russian oil, and both sides were eager to establish a ruble-rupee trading agreement. After a two-day visit to China, Russia's foreign minister arrived in India. Mr. Lavrov is in India at the same time as US Deputy National Security Advisor Daleep Singh and British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss. Watch | Lavrov lauds India for 'balanced' stance, 'West is linking all international crisis to Ukraine' (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Russia-Ukraine conflict | India can't take stand, there is pressure: Sergey Lavrov

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. The chief of Britain's Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) on Wednesday (March 30) claimed that some demoralised Russian soldiers in Ukraine have been disobeying orders and accidentally shot down one of their own aircraft. The spy agency GCHQ chief Jeremy Fleming said that Russian President Vladimir Putin had "massively misjudged" the capabilities of Russia's once-mighty armed forces. Fleming cited new intelligence and stated that there was evidence that Russian soldiers had low morale and were poorly equipped. ALSO READ | Zelensky says Ukraine preparing for new Russian offensive in the east, dismisses Russian claims of scaleback "We've seen Russian soldiers – short of weapons and morale – refusing to carry out orders, sabotaging their own equipment and even accidentally shooting down their own aircraft," Fleming said in a speech in Canberra at the Australian National University, according to a transcript of his remarks. Fleming also claimed that Putin might have underestimated some major aspects before announcing his decision to invade Ukraine. He said, "Putin has massively misjudged the situation. We believe Putin’s advisers are afraid to tell him the truth." The Russian leader might have misjudged the resistance of the Ukrainian people and the resolve of the West, which has punished Moscow with multiple economic sanctions. ALSO READ | Ukraine conflict: UN appoints human rights experts to investigate alleged war crimes On February 24, Russia ordered the so-called "military operation" in Ukraine. Since then, the invasion has killed thousands of people, displaced millions. On one hand, such reports have claimed that the Russian forces are facing setbacks against Ukrainian resistance, but Russia's defence ministry says its armed forces are professional and carrying out their duty in Ukraine with considerable success. The Russian military also says that the West has spread lies about the operation in an attempt to bring down Russia. The United States assesses that Russia is suffering failure rates as high as 60 per cent for some of its precision-guided missiles, three US officials with knowledge of the intelligence told Reuters. There are no comments yet by Kremlin on Jeremy Fleming's remarks. WATCH | United States: Putin misled on how war progressed × (With inputs from agencies)

UK spy chief claims Russian soldiers refusing to carry out orders, shot down own aircraft

Ukraine and Russia are currently involved in peace talks with Moscow promising to cut back military activity. However, former Ukraine president Petro Poroshenko believes Russia cannot be trusted.

Poroshenko served as Ukraine's president from 2014 to 2019. He led Ukraine through the first phase of the war when Russia occupied Crimea. Three years after leaving office, Poroshenko has taken on a different role - the role of a soldier. Since the invasion, Ukraine's former president has been out on the streets of Kyiv dressed in military fatigue and equipped with a weapon.

WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma spoke exclusively with Poroshenko even as he was on duty in battle fatigue on the streets of Kyiv.

WION: You have been on the frontlines since the invasion began. How are you doing? Are you safe?

Petro Poroshenko: Me, together with the Ukrainian people are soldiers now. We are doing our best to stop the Russian aggression and to throw him out from Ukrainian soil and to defend and protect our people. Now, you can hear the Russian artillery fire right now. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Tell us about where you are standing at the moment - you say this site has become a symbol for Ukraine, tell us more about it and what is it like living through the war?

Poroshenko: &nbsp;This is the very famous trading centre near Kiev, Retroville, and the civilian housing district. Less than 10 km from here we have Russian tanks. We have fighting there as our troops are freeing Iripine from Russian occupants.&nbsp;

They have erased several areas that were symbol of new Ukraine, great architecture, the residential area which is completeley destroyed. And nobody can explain why they are here. But we are protecting our land, our people, our future, and we thank the world for solidarity with us. and this is why we will definitely win.

WION: As president you led the first war with Russia...Did you ever think that a full-fledged invasion of Ukraine was possible?

Poroshenko: When I was elected president, Crimea was already occupied, Donbass was already occupied. And believe me, this was not a conflict between Russia and Ukraine, it was a war. The volume of the operations was very big and I am proud that we stopped the Russian troops then, we released two-thirds of occupied Donbass. We protected the country through very different means, from army to diplomatic means.&nbsp;

I am very proud that since 2014, we created a new country and brought the Army together including Ukrainian volunteers and created a new municipality structure because of decentralisation and that is why we surprised the world. Because Putin promised that within 36 hours he would capture Kyiv. Tomorrow would be five disastrous weeks of war for Russia. For five weeks the Ukrainian Army and people have been fighting against, as they said the second biggest army in the world.

We surprised the world. We demonstrated that the Ukrainian Army is a unique unit. All the countries are against Russia. Because this is not possible, a compromise. They want us dead, the Russians want to erase Ukraine from the world map but we simply want to live. That's why it's not possible to have a compromise.&nbsp;

I am proud of the last eight years and I am proud of my country including my president. The Army, the Ukrainian people, the Ukrainian cultural and religious sphere that helped us to unite the nation.

WION: Mr Poroshenko are you safe?

Poroshenko: Nobody is safe in Kyiv but here it is definitely not safe but we have lived in these conditions for 35 days.

WION: We appreciate your courage sir to do this interview in such difficult conditions is no mean feat. In the past, you have called Russia's President Vladimir Putin "a crazy maniac". What message would you like to send to him today?

Poroshenko: I haven't changed my mind. It is impossible to explain why he is doing this. He is inadequate, unpredictable, crazy. He should be behind bars of the international criminal court

WION: What do you make of the actions of the west so far? do you believe their reluctance to act against Russian energy supplies has extended this war?

Poroshenko: I think the world has surprised Putin. I don't think Putin expected the world would be so united. We need global solidarity and several things - we need the land-lease act to supply Ukraine with everything from nutrition to ammunition. We need closed skies against Russian planes. We also need sanctions and embargo against Russia.

I would like to ask India. We definitely insist that we should stop paying to Russia money for financing the war in Ukraine because every single billion-dollar Russia will receive for their oil, they will receive $1 billion dollars a day which means more than 300 Russian tanks rolling into Ukraine for one day. We definitely welcome the decision of the United States, UK, EU and Germany to significantly decrease gas consumption and oil consumption.

It is my request to India, they say the oil is extremely cheap and it is possible to buy $25 a barrel and you buy a small portion but for one or two days of your consumption - please stop. This is the victim Ukraine asking your government. Please stop buying Russian oil.

WION: You say India is buying oil from Russia but what will you say to Europe which has bought billions of dollars worth of gas from Russia since the beginning of the invasion. Is that not a betrayal?

Poroshenko: My request to the European Union member states is exactly the same. As a former president to my friends. We need a full embargo on Russian oil and gas whether it is the European Union or India or any other nation in the world including China. It was exactly my request to the European Union.

WION: What message would you like to send to India's current prime minister Narendra Modi?

Poroshenko: Dear prime minister if you will have an opportunity and demonstrate solidarity with Ukraine, we request you to stop buying Russian oil and please be the guest of Ukraine. Could you make a visit to Kiev? It will be of great symbolic importance, think about it. This is a decisive step. This will demonstrate your leadership for Ukraine dear prime minister.

This is also a disastrous humanitarian crisis. If you could send medicines for Ukrainians it would be great. A friend in need is a friend indeed.

Ukraine and Russia are currently involved in peace talks with Moscow promising to cut back military activity. However, former Ukraine president Petro Poroshenko believes Russia cannot be trusted.

Ukraine and Russia are currently involved in peace talks with Moscow promising to cut back military activity. However, former Ukraine president Petro Poroshenko believes Russia cannot be trusted. Poroshenko served as Ukraine's president from 2014 to 2019. He led Ukraine through the first phase of the war when Russia occupied Crimea. Three years after leaving office, Poroshenko has taken on a different role - the role of a soldier. Since the invasion, Ukraine's former president has been out on the streets of Kyiv dressed in military fatigue and equipped with a weapon. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma spoke exclusively with Poroshenko even as he was on duty in battle fatigue on the streets of Kyiv. WION: You have been on the frontlines since the invasion began. How are you doing? Are you safe? Petro Poroshenko: Me, together with the Ukrainian people are soldiers now. We are doing our best to stop the Russian aggression and to throw him out from Ukrainian soil and to defend and protect our people. Now, you can hear the Russian artillery fire right now. WION: Tell us about where you are standing at the moment - you say this site has become a symbol for Ukraine, tell us more about it and what is it like living through the war? Poroshenko: This is the very famous trading centre near Kiev, Retroville, and the civilian housing district. Less than 10 km from here we have Russian tanks. We have fighting there as our troops are freeing Iripine from Russian occupants. They have erased several areas that were symbol of new Ukraine, great architecture, the residential area which is completeley destroyed. And nobody can explain why they are here. But we are protecting our land, our people, our future, and we thank the world for solidarity with us. and this is why we will definitely win. WION: As president you led the first war with Russia...Did you ever think that a full-fledged invasion of Ukraine was possible? Poroshenko: When I was elected president, Crimea was already occupied, Donbass was already occupied. And believe me, this was not a conflict between Russia and Ukraine, it was a war. The volume of the operations was very big and I am proud that we stopped the Russian troops then, we released two-thirds of occupied Donbass. We protected the country through very different means, from army to diplomatic means. I am very proud that since 2014, we created a new country and brought the Army together including Ukrainian volunteers and created a new municipality structure because of decentralisation and that is why we surprised the world. Because Putin promised that within 36 hours he would capture Kyiv. Tomorrow would be five disastrous weeks of war for Russia. For five weeks the Ukrainian Army and people have been fighting against, as they said the second biggest army in the world. We surprised the world. We demonstrated that the Ukrainian Army is a unique unit. All the countries are against Russia. Because this is not possible, a compromise. They want us dead, the Russians want to erase Ukraine from the world map but we simply want to live. That's why it's not possible to have a compromise. I am proud of the last eight years and I am proud of my country including my president. The Army, the Ukrainian people, the Ukrainian cultural and religious sphere that helped us to unite the nation. WION: Mr Poroshenko are you safe? Poroshenko: Nobody is safe in Kyiv but here it is definitely not safe but we have lived in these conditions for 35 days. WION: We appreciate your courage sir to do this interview in such difficult conditions is no mean feat. In the past, you have called Russia's President Vladimir Putin "a crazy maniac". What message would you like to send to him today? Poroshenko: I haven't changed my mind. It is impossible to explain why he is doing this. He is inadequate, unpredictable, crazy. He should be behind bars of the international criminal court WION: What do you make of the actions of the west so far? do you believe their reluctance to act against Russian energy supplies has extended this war? Poroshenko: I think the world has surprised Putin. I don't think Putin expected the world would be so united. We need global solidarity and several things - we need the land-lease act to supply Ukraine with everything from nutrition to ammunition. We need closed skies against Russian planes. We also need sanctions and embargo against Russia. I would like to ask India. We definitely insist that we should stop paying to Russia money for financing the war in Ukraine because every single billion-dollar Russia will receive for their oil, they will receive $1 billion dollars a day which means more than 300 Russian tanks rolling into Ukraine for one day. We definitely welcome the decision of the United States, UK, EU and Germany to significantly decrease gas consumption and oil consumption. It is my request to India, they say the oil is extremely cheap and it is possible to buy $25 a barrel and you buy a small portion but for one or two days of your consumption - please stop. This is the victim Ukraine asking your government. Please stop buying Russian oil. WION: You say India is buying oil from Russia but what will you say to Europe which has bought billions of dollars worth of gas from Russia since the beginning of the invasion. Is that not a betrayal? Poroshenko: My request to the European Union member states is exactly the same. As a former president to my friends. We need a full embargo on Russian oil and gas whether it is the European Union or India or any other nation in the world including China. It was exactly my request to the European Union. WION: What message would you like to send to India's current prime minister Narendra Modi? Poroshenko: Dear prime minister if you will have an opportunity and demonstrate solidarity with Ukraine, we request you to stop buying Russian oil and please be the guest of Ukraine. Could you make a visit to Kiev? It will be of great symbolic importance, think about it. This is a decisive step. This will demonstrate your leadership for Ukraine dear prime minister. This is also a disastrous humanitarian crisis. If you could send medicines for Ukrainians it would be great. A friend in need is a friend indeed.

Watch | Russia-Ukraine | Exclusive: Putin should be behind bars, ex-Ukraine president tells WION

EU Special Envoy for the Indo-Pacific Gabriele Visentin who is in Delhi has said that the war in Ukraine "does not reduce the resolve of the EU to act in the Indo pacific". During the India visit, the envoy met Secretary West Sanjay Verma, Joint Secretary Indo Pacific Geetika Srivastava, Joint Secretary Sumit Seth and envoys of all EU countries on the grouping's role in the region and the implication of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Visentin said, "price tag has been shown" for breaking of international order with the Russian invasion of Ukraine and what is seen is "big neighbour attacking a smaller neighbour in an unprovoked way, not respecting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the state."

In February, France and the EU co-hosted a foreign ministers' meeting on the Indo Pacific.&nbsp;

WION: What is your key focus during the Delhi visit?

Gabriele Visentin: What brings me here is actually a step up in the relations with India in terms of involvement of&nbsp;the implementation of the EU strategy on the Indo Pacific. So, my visit here is not only aimed at a political level and a comparison of notes on the current situation. but also to implement the EU strategy for cooperation on the Indo Pacific, both bilaterally and regionally.

 
WION: What is EU strategy in Indo Pacific, what is it all about?

Gabriele Visentin: The term Indo Pacific, was born in India in 2007. It was first raised in the speech by PM Abe in front of the Indian Parliament. The notion of the Indo Pacific was born in India. Already this is a great alignment, some people refer to the region as the Asia Pacific. We both refer to it as the Indo Pacific. There is the first definition of geographically scope which is aligned.

EU strategy for cooperation on Indo Pacific aims at strengthening and reinforcing the current and ongoing cooperation in the Indo Pacific,&nbsp;is structured along 7 themes, all of which have very high importance to India. We have a theme that talks about economic development and trade;&nbsp;2nd theme on climate change and the fight against its impact;&nbsp;3rd, cooperation on security and defence, human security which is all about fighting against pandemic, then ocean governance involving pollution and illegal fishing and illegal smuggling and law enforcement. Its overall strategy encompasses all possible fields of interest to the area and to India itself.

The biggest is the chapter on connectivity.&nbsp;The real backbone of the strategy is connectivity and implementation of the connectivity chapter is really at the heart of our policy for India and the region.

WION: Any practical cooperation by the EU in the region?

Gabriele Visentin: It is a bit too early to identify concrete projects. We are still in the phase of agreeing on the terms of cooperation. The EU has specified its concept of connectivity, through a policy initiative called global gateways, published towards the end of the year. India is one of two&nbsp;countries with which the EU has a connectivity partnership.

The implementation of the global gateway and connectivity partnership will pass through the identification of projects but we are aligned on the philosophy. The philosophy of the EU's way of connectivity and India's way of understanding connectivity is that projects should be based on their bankability or financial sustainability in the long term. It means that the financing will be a blend of public-private funds, involvement of financial institutions and a mix of loans and grants. Connectivity must be in the interest of the recipient country and based on the long term sustainability of debt. India, the EU's idea of connectivity, is that connectivity should create links and not dependency. &nbsp;

WION: Ukraine crisis has been the biggest worry; will it impact EU's focus on Indo pacific?

Gabriele Visentin: This is not a crisis, this is a drama going on, for the first time in 75 years' the war has touched European soil and it is at the neighbour of Europe. This is something we all stood against and this paradoxically does not reduce the resolve of the EU to act in the Indo pacific. It enhances the EU's resolve to act worldwide. What is happening there resonates all over the world. &nbsp;What is there is a big neighbour attacking a smaller neighbour in an unprovoked way, not respecting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the state. This is all in a total breach of the UN charter, the international rules-based order. Breach of the rules, we all gave to each other to live peacefully. We can't pretend nothing has happened. This is something that will reinforce our resolve to act even more in the Indo Pacific and this has found attention from the Indian authorities during my talks.

WION: Do you see a Ukraine-like situation erupting in Asia, and if yes, what can the EU do?

Gabriele Visentin: For the time being nothing like that has happened and for the time being we have no signs that something like this can happen. Should this happen, anyhow the western world and western democracies, liberal democracies have shown that they can unite together to counteract this. The answer that EU and its member states, like-minded countries have given worldwide amid the Ukraine war is exemplary, what it means to breach the UN charter.

WION: You haven't taken the name of one country in Asia, but you have indicated bigger countries chipping away territory of smaller countries. How big is that worry for Europe?

Gabriele Visentin: It's not a worry, you need to be ready for whatever the future might bring. Actually, something on which we all agree is to show the price tag of breaking the international rules-based order. I think the price tag has been shown. There are no worries or targets for anything but an indication of the fact that democracies can work, deliver and unite themselves when need be.

WION: What are your expectations from the Indian side of the Indo Pacific. India has been the torchbearer of the vision.

Gabriele Visentin: &nbsp;I would not talk about expectation, but joining force. India is the biggest democracy in the world, the biggest regional power, both military and economic so it is not a matter of expectation but a matter of cooperation and joining forces. My presence here shows we want to engage more and more with India in order to really cooperate more in every possible aspect. There are tangible cooperation ideas, on connectivity, on defence undertaking EU military missions in the Indian ocean or fighting climate change or capacity building on law enforcement that will promote multilateralism, for example, UNCLOS. I would really like to stress, we found ourselves aligned on the will to cooperate more.&nbsp;

WION: Are you planning a big-ticket event, for example, the France event.

Gabriele Visentin: The Indo pacific meet was co-organized by the EU and France, so it was an EU event as well. We consider it a major step toward integrating the EU with the Indo Pacific. In Paris, we had all the ministers of the EU, plus more than 30 foreign ministers from the Indo Pacific. They all got together and found ways to further down the cooperation. This is important, and we do plan to continue this path and major events will be organized by the incoming presidency, we are in contact with the Czech, Swedish and Spanish presidencies so that Indo Pacific remains the centre of EU attention which has been an integral part of the bloc.&nbsp;

EU Special Envoy for the Indo-Pacific Gabriele Visentin who is in Delhi has said that the war in Ukraine "does not reduce the resolve of the EU to act in the Indo pacific".

EU Special Envoy for the Indo-Pacific Gabriele Visentin who is in Delhi has said that the war in Ukraine "does not reduce the resolve of the EU to act in the Indo pacific". During the India visit, the envoy met Secretary West Sanjay Verma, Joint Secretary Indo Pacific Geetika Srivastava, Joint Secretary Sumit Seth and envoys of all EU countries on the grouping's role in the region and the implication of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Visentin said, "price tag has been shown" for breaking of international order with the Russian invasion of Ukraine and what is seen is "big neighbour attacking a smaller neighbour in an unprovoked way, not respecting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the state." In February, France and the EU co-hosted a foreign ministers' meeting on the Indo Pacific. WION: What is your key focus during the Delhi visit? Gabriele Visentin: What brings me here is actually a step up in the relations with India in terms of involvement of the implementation of the EU strategy on the Indo Pacific. So, my visit here is not only aimed at a political level and a comparison of notes on the current situation. but also to implement the EU strategy for cooperation on the Indo Pacific, both bilaterally and regionally. WION: What is EU strategy in Indo Pacific, what is it all about? Gabriele Visentin: The term Indo Pacific, was born in India in 2007. It was first raised in the speech by PM Abe in front of the Indian Parliament. The notion of the Indo Pacific was born in India. Already this is a great alignment, some people refer to the region as the Asia Pacific. We both refer to it as the Indo Pacific. There is the first definition of geographically scope which is aligned. EU strategy for cooperation on Indo Pacific aims at strengthening and reinforcing the current and ongoing cooperation in the Indo Pacific, is structured along 7 themes, all of which have very high importance to India. We have a theme that talks about economic development and trade; 2nd theme on climate change and the fight against its impact; 3rd, cooperation on security and defence, human security which is all about fighting against pandemic, then ocean governance involving pollution and illegal fishing and illegal smuggling and law enforcement. Its overall strategy encompasses all possible fields of interest to the area and to India itself. The biggest is the chapter on connectivity. The real backbone of the strategy is connectivity and implementation of the connectivity chapter is really at the heart of our policy for India and the region. WION: Any practical cooperation by the EU in the region? Gabriele Visentin: It is a bit too early to identify concrete projects. We are still in the phase of agreeing on the terms of cooperation. The EU has specified its concept of connectivity, through a policy initiative called global gateways, published towards the end of the year. India is one of two countries with which the EU has a connectivity partnership. The implementation of the global gateway and connectivity partnership will pass through the identification of projects but we are aligned on the philosophy. The philosophy of the EU's way of connectivity and India's way of understanding connectivity is that projects should be based on their bankability or financial sustainability in the long term. It means that the financing will be a blend of public-private funds, involvement of financial institutions and a mix of loans and grants. Connectivity must be in the interest of the recipient country and based on the long term sustainability of debt. India, the EU's idea of connectivity, is that connectivity should create links and not dependency. WION: Ukraine crisis has been the biggest worry; will it impact EU's focus on Indo pacific? Gabriele Visentin: This is not a crisis, this is a drama going on, for the first time in 75 years' the war has touched European soil and it is at the neighbour of Europe. This is something we all stood against and this paradoxically does not reduce the resolve of the EU to act in the Indo pacific. It enhances the EU's resolve to act worldwide. What is happening there resonates all over the world. What is there is a big neighbour attacking a smaller neighbour in an unprovoked way, not respecting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the state. This is all in a total breach of the UN charter, the international rules-based order. Breach of the rules, we all gave to each other to live peacefully. We can't pretend nothing has happened. This is something that will reinforce our resolve to act even more in the Indo Pacific and this has found attention from the Indian authorities during my talks. WION: Do you see a Ukraine-like situation erupting in Asia, and if yes, what can the EU do? Gabriele Visentin: For the time being nothing like that has happened and for the time being we have no signs that something like this can happen. Should this happen, anyhow the western world and western democracies, liberal democracies have shown that they can unite together to counteract this. The answer that EU and its member states, like-minded countries have given worldwide amid the Ukraine war is exemplary, what it means to breach the UN charter. WION: You haven't taken the name of one country in Asia, but you have indicated bigger countries chipping away territory of smaller countries. How big is that worry for Europe? Gabriele Visentin: It's not a worry, you need to be ready for whatever the future might bring. Actually, something on which we all agree is to show the price tag of breaking the international rules-based order. I think the price tag has been shown. There are no worries or targets for anything but an indication of the fact that democracies can work, deliver and unite themselves when need be. WION: What are your expectations from the Indian side of the Indo Pacific. India has been the torchbearer of the vision. Gabriele Visentin: I would not talk about expectation, but joining force. India is the biggest democracy in the world, the biggest regional power, both military and economic so it is not a matter of expectation but a matter of cooperation and joining forces. My presence here shows we want to engage more and more with India in order to really cooperate more in every possible aspect. There are tangible cooperation ideas, on connectivity, on defence undertaking EU military missions in the Indian ocean or fighting climate change or capacity building on law enforcement that will promote multilateralism, for example, UNCLOS. I would really like to stress, we found ourselves aligned on the will to cooperate more. WION: Are you planning a big-ticket event, for example, the France event. Gabriele Visentin: The Indo pacific meet was co-organized by the EU and France, so it was an EU event as well. We consider it a major step toward integrating the EU with the Indo Pacific. In Paris, we had all the ministers of the EU, plus more than 30 foreign ministers from the Indo Pacific. They all got together and found ways to further down the cooperation. This is important, and we do plan to continue this path and major events will be organized by the incoming presidency, we are in contact with the Czech, Swedish and Spanish presidencies so that Indo Pacific remains the centre of EU attention which has been an integral part of the bloc.

Exclusive | War in Ukraine enhances EU's resolve to act in Indo Pacific, says top diplomat Gabriele

Despite heightened tensions over the war in Ukraine, a US astronaut and two Russian cosmonauts left the International Space Station (ISS) together on Wednesday in a Soyuz capsule.

To begin the journey back to Earth, the trio will close the hatch of the Soyuz MS-19 spacecraft. The Soyuz will detach from the Rassvet module and land assisted by&nbsp;parachutes&nbsp;on Kazakhstan's steppes, southeast of the remote town of Dzhezkazgan, on March 30.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/western-sanctions-could-cause-international-space-station-to-crash-russia-461606">Western sanctions could cause International space station to crash: Russia</a>

According to Russian space agency Roscosmos, the Russian Soyuz capsule carrying NASA's Mark Vande Hei and his cosmonaut colleagues Anton Shkaplerov and Pyotr Dubrov safely undocked from the International Space Station and is slated to make a parachute landing in central Kazakhstan at 1128 GMT.

The joint US-Russian return flight from the International Space Station is being closely scrutinised for signs that the escalating tensions between Moscow and Washington over Russia's invasion of Ukraine have spilled over into long-standing space cooperation between the two.

Watch |&nbsp;Russian cosmonauts arrive at the International space station for 6-month long mission

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-cosmonauts-arrive-at-the-international-space-station-for-6-month-long-mission-463660/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to NASA, Vande Hei, who is 55 years old and is on his second ISS mission, would have achieved a US space endurance record of 355 days in orbit, breaking the previous 340-day record set by astronaut Scott Kelly in 2016.

On February 24, US President Joe Biden announced economic sanctions against Russian President Vladimir Putin's government, including high-tech export restrictions aimed at "degrading" Russia's aerospace industry, particularly its space programme.

The director-general of Roscosmos, Dmitry Rogozin, then responded with a series of Twitter tweets, claiming that the US penalties may "destroy" ISS teamwork and cause the space station to tumble out of orbit.

Also read |&nbsp;Did Russian cosmonauts wear Ukrainian flag’s colours at ISS? Idea gets refuted

Around the same time, Rogozin announced that Russia would no longer manufacture or service Russian-made rocket engines used by two US&nbsp;aerospace NASA suppliers, suggesting that American astronauts may reach orbit using "broomsticks."

According to NASA, US and Russian ISS crew members are aware of happenings on Earth, but are working together professionally and without friction.

Three cosmonauts travelled to orbit on March 18 to replace the three returning ISS crew members, joining Vande Hei's three remaining American colleagues and a German astronaut from the European Space Agency.

(With inputs from agencies)

Despite heightened tensions over the war in Ukraine, a US astronaut and two Russian cosmonauts left the International Space Station (ISS) together on Wednesday in a Soyuz capsule.

Despite heightened tensions over the war in Ukraine, a US astronaut and two Russian cosmonauts left the International Space Station (ISS) together on Wednesday in a Soyuz capsule. To begin the journey back to Earth, the trio will close the hatch of the Soyuz MS-19 spacecraft. The Soyuz will detach from the Rassvet module and land assisted by parachutes on Kazakhstan's steppes, southeast of the remote town of Dzhezkazgan, on March 30. Also read | Western sanctions could cause International space station to crash: Russia According to Russian space agency Roscosmos, the Russian Soyuz capsule carrying NASA's Mark Vande Hei and his cosmonaut colleagues Anton Shkaplerov and Pyotr Dubrov safely undocked from the International Space Station and is slated to make a parachute landing in central Kazakhstan at 1128 GMT. The joint US-Russian return flight from the International Space Station is being closely scrutinised for signs that the escalating tensions between Moscow and Washington over Russia's invasion of Ukraine have spilled over into long-standing space cooperation between the two. Watch | Russian cosmonauts arrive at the International space station for 6-month long mission According to NASA, Vande Hei, who is 55 years old and is on his second ISS mission, would have achieved a US space endurance record of 355 days in orbit, breaking the previous 340-day record set by astronaut Scott Kelly in 2016. On February 24, US President Joe Biden announced economic sanctions against Russian President Vladimir Putin's government, including high-tech export restrictions aimed at "degrading" Russia's aerospace industry, particularly its space programme. The director-general of Roscosmos, Dmitry Rogozin, then responded with a series of Twitter tweets, claiming that the US penalties may "destroy" ISS teamwork and cause the space station to tumble out of orbit. Also read | Did Russian cosmonauts wear Ukrainian flag’s colours at ISS? Idea gets refuted Around the same time, Rogozin announced that Russia would no longer manufacture or service Russian-made rocket engines used by two US aerospace NASA suppliers, suggesting that American astronauts may reach orbit using "broomsticks." According to NASA, US and Russian ISS crew members are aware of happenings on Earth, but are working together professionally and without friction. Three cosmonauts travelled to orbit on March 18 to replace the three returning ISS crew members, joining Vande Hei's three remaining American colleagues and a German astronaut from the European Space Agency. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid the Russia-Ukraine war, US and Russian astronauts return to Earth together

Ukraine and its Western allies awaited indications on Wednesday that Moscow was "radically" decreasing military action near Kyiv, as agreed in peace negotiations, but scepticism remained high after Washington cautioned that Russian forces were being relocated rather than withdrawn.

In marked contrast to past rounds, both parties described the negotiations in Istanbul as "serious" and "good," increasing hopes after more than a month of fighting which has killed thousands and displaced millions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-russia-ukraine-exclusive-putin-should-be-behind-bars-ex-ukraine-president-tells-wion-466807" hreflang="en">Watch | Russia-Ukraine | Exclusive: Putin should be behind bars, ex-Ukraine president tells WION</a>

Russia's deputy defence minister, Alexander Fomin, said progress had been made on Ukraine's "neutrality and non-nuclear status," two key Russian concerns.

He also stated that Russia would "significantly restrict military activities" around Kyiv and Chernigiv in the north.

However, the pledge was met with scepticism in Ukraine and Western capitals, with the Pentagon claiming that Russia had only relocated a "small number" of troops near Kyiv, but was planning a "major offensive" elsewhere.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sufficient-conditions-for-talks-between-zelensky-putin-ukraine-466749" hreflang="en">Sufficient conditions for talks between Zelensky, Putin: Ukraine</a>

According to Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby, the "vast majority" of the Russian military stationed near Kyiv remained in position.

"We've only seen a small number begin to move away from Kyiv, mostly to the north.

"Russia has failed in its objective of capturing Kyiv," the Pentagon spokesman added, but "it does not mean that the threat to Kyiv is over".

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine, allies remain cautious as Russia pledges to reduce attacks amid the Russian invasion

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-allies-remain-cautious-as-russia-pledges-to-reduce-attacks-amid-the-russian-invasion-466831/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The retreat of Russian forces from the area around Kyiv and Chernigiv, according to Ukraine's military, "is probably a rotation of individual units and aims to mislead".

Air raid sirens rang multiple times in the capital overnight and persisted into the morning.

(WIth inputs from agencies)

Ukraine and its Western allies awaited indications on Wednesday that Moscow was "radically" decreasing military action near Kyiv, as agreed in peace negotiations, but scepticism remained high after Washington cautioned that Russian forces were being relocated rather than withdrawn.

Ukraine and its Western allies awaited indications on Wednesday that Moscow was "radically" decreasing military action near Kyiv, as agreed in peace negotiations, but scepticism remained high after Washington cautioned that Russian forces were being relocated rather than withdrawn. In marked contrast to past rounds, both parties described the negotiations in Istanbul as "serious" and "good," increasing hopes after more than a month of fighting which has killed thousands and displaced millions. Also read | Watch | Russia-Ukraine | Exclusive: Putin should be behind bars, ex-Ukraine president tells WION Russia's deputy defence minister, Alexander Fomin, said progress had been made on Ukraine's "neutrality and non-nuclear status," two key Russian concerns. He also stated that Russia would "significantly restrict military activities" around Kyiv and Chernigiv in the north. However, the pledge was met with scepticism in Ukraine and Western capitals, with the Pentagon claiming that Russia had only relocated a "small number" of troops near Kyiv, but was planning a "major offensive" elsewhere. Also read | Sufficient conditions for talks between Zelensky, Putin: Ukraine According to Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby, the "vast majority" of the Russian military stationed near Kyiv remained in position. "We've only seen a small number begin to move away from Kyiv, mostly to the north. "Russia has failed in its objective of capturing Kyiv," the Pentagon spokesman added, but "it does not mean that the threat to Kyiv is over". Watch | Ukraine, allies remain cautious as Russia pledges to reduce attacks amid the Russian invasion The retreat of Russian forces from the area around Kyiv and Chernigiv, according to Ukraine's military, "is probably a rotation of individual units and aims to mislead". Air raid sirens rang multiple times in the capital overnight and persisted into the morning. (WIth inputs from agencies)

Scepticism greets Russian pledge to deescalate around Kyiv

US President Joe Biden reiterated his conviction that Vladimir Putin should not be President of Russia, telling reporters that he made "no apologies" for his off-the-cuff remarks.&nbsp;

He stood by his words "expressing moral outrage" but also clarified that he wasn't "articulating a policy change."

"I’m not walking anything back.I was expressing moral outrage, and I make no apologies," he added.

Speaking in Poland at the end of his four-day trip to Europe on Sunday, Biden said of Putin, "For God’s sake, this man cannot remain in power."

The line was improvised at the end of a 27-minute speech by a president known for doing so.

Biden's prepared remarks in the State Dining Room, his first public appearance since his Warsaw speech on Saturday, were about the budget proposal he is sending to lawmakers for the fiscal year that begins in October, but the majority of the questions from the two dozen reporters gathered in front of him were about his impromptu remark.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/history-of-urban-warfare-why-russia-will-find-it-difficult-to-conquer-kyiv-465932">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;&nbsp;History of urban warfare &amp; why Russia will find it difficult to conquer Kyiv</a>

Almost soon afterward, White House officials clarified that the remark did not reflect a shift in US policy, and that Biden was not seeking "regime change" in Russia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-could-russian-president-vladimir-putin-be-prosecuted-for-war-crimes-in-ukraine-465719">Also Read in Pics: How could Russian President Vladimir Putin be prosecuted for war crimes in Ukraine?</a>

"The president's point was that Putin could not wield authority over his neighbours or the region."

He wasn't talking about Putin's power or regime change in Russia." 
 
Watch | Gravitas: Zelensky opens the door for neutrality in peace talks

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-zelensky-opens-the-door-for-neutrality-in-peace-talks-466500/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, Biden stressed on Monday that these and other reasons were not a "walk back," and that he was reacting as anyone would after meeting with victims of Putin's assault on civilians in Ukraine, especially children.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden reiterated his conviction that Vladimir Putin should not be President of Russia, telling reporters that he made "no apologies" for his off-the-cuff remarks.

US President Joe Biden reiterated his conviction that Vladimir Putin should not be President of Russia, telling reporters that he made "no apologies" for his off-the-cuff remarks. He stood by his words "expressing moral outrage" but also clarified that he wasn't "articulating a policy change." "I’m not walking anything back.I was expressing moral outrage, and I make no apologies," he added. Speaking in Poland at the end of his four-day trip to Europe on Sunday, Biden said of Putin, "For God’s sake, this man cannot remain in power." The line was improvised at the end of a 27-minute speech by a president known for doing so. Biden's prepared remarks in the State Dining Room, his first public appearance since his Warsaw speech on Saturday, were about the budget proposal he is sending to lawmakers for the fiscal year that begins in October, but the majority of the questions from the two dozen reporters gathered in front of him were about his impromptu remark. Also Read in Pics: History of urban warfare & why Russia will find it difficult to conquer Kyiv Almost soon afterward, White House officials clarified that the remark did not reflect a shift in US policy, and that Biden was not seeking "regime change" in Russia. Also Read in Pics: How could Russian President Vladimir Putin be prosecuted for war crimes in Ukraine? "The president's point was that Putin could not wield authority over his neighbours or the region." He wasn't talking about Putin's power or regime change in Russia." Watch | Gravitas: Zelensky opens the door for neutrality in peace talks However, Biden stressed on Monday that these and other reasons were not a "walk back," and that he was reacting as anyone would after meeting with victims of Putin's assault on civilians in Ukraine, especially children. (With inputs from agencies)

'No apologies' for saying Putin 'cannot remain in power': US President Biden

Amid the escalating Russia-Ukraine conflict, hopes are hanging over peace talks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke to several Russian media publications to share his points.&nbsp;

However, the Russian communications watchdog Roskomnadzor told Russian media on Sunday (March 27) to refrain from reporting an interview, which was done.&nbsp;

The media regulator further warned that the outlets could be subject to investigation and action could be taken against them if they broadcast the chat.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-zelensky-says-ukraine-ready-to-discuss-adopting-neutral-status-466182">President Zelensky says Ukraine ready to discuss adopting neutral status</a>

Roskomnadzor released a short statement on social media and also posted it on its website. The statement mentioned that a host of Russian outlets had done an interview with Zelensky.&nbsp;

"Roskomnadzor warns the Russian media about the necessity of refraining from publishing this interview," it said. It did not give a reason for its warning or didn't reveal any details.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the interaction, Ukraine Zelensky said that Russian demand for Ukrainian neutrality was being closely looked at by Kyiv's negotiators.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wary-of-escalation-france-calls-for-restraint-after-bidens-butcher-jibe-466052">Wary of escalation, France calls for restraint after Biden's 'butcher' jibe</a>

While speaking with Russian journalists, Zelensky accused Russian leader Vladimir Putin of dragging out negotiations and prolonging the conflict.&nbsp;

Zelensky said, "We have to come to an agreement with the President of the Russian Federation. But to reach an agreement, he has to get up from where he is and come and meet me."&nbsp;

Negotiations to end more than a month of fighting in Ukraine have focused on Ukraine staying out of NATO, disarmament and security guarantees. The two sides are due to meet for the second round of face-to-face talks next week in Turkey.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: The story of Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky

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(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the escalating Russia-Ukraine conflict, hopes are hanging over peace talks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke to several Russian media publications to share his points.

Amid the escalating Russia-Ukraine conflict, hopes are hanging over peace talks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke to several Russian media publications to share his points. However, the Russian communications watchdog Roskomnadzor told Russian media on Sunday (March 27) to refrain from reporting an interview, which was done. The media regulator further warned that the outlets could be subject to investigation and action could be taken against them if they broadcast the chat. ALSO READ | President Zelensky says Ukraine ready to discuss adopting neutral status Roskomnadzor released a short statement on social media and also posted it on its website. The statement mentioned that a host of Russian outlets had done an interview with Zelensky. "Roskomnadzor warns the Russian media about the necessity of refraining from publishing this interview," it said. It did not give a reason for its warning or didn't reveal any details. During the interaction, Ukraine Zelensky said that Russian demand for Ukrainian neutrality was being closely looked at by Kyiv's negotiators. ALSO READ | Wary of escalation, France calls for restraint after Biden's 'butcher' jibe While speaking with Russian journalists, Zelensky accused Russian leader Vladimir Putin of dragging out negotiations and prolonging the conflict. Zelensky said, "We have to come to an agreement with the President of the Russian Federation. But to reach an agreement, he has to get up from where he is and come and meet me." Negotiations to end more than a month of fighting in Ukraine have focused on Ukraine staying out of NATO, disarmament and security guarantees. The two sides are due to meet for the second round of face-to-face talks next week in Turkey. WATCH | Gravitas Plus: The story of Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky × (With inputs from agencies)

'Refrain from publishing': Russia warns media, says don't report interview with Zelensky

As the delegations prepare for a fresh round of talks in Istanbul, the Kremlin stated Monday that talks between Moscow and Kyiv negotiators have so far yielded no major achievements on the Ukrainian issue.&nbsp;

“So far we cannot state any significant achievements or breakthroughs,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, adding that it was “important” that it had been decided to continue the talks in person.

Ukraine’s priorities at the Ukrainian-Russian talks in Turkey this week will be “sovereignty and territorial integrity,” President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told his nation Sunday in his nightly address.

“We are looking for peace, really, without delay,” he said. “There is an opportunity and a need for a face-to-face meeting in Turkey.

As the delegations prepare for a fresh round of talks in Istanbul, the Kremlin stated Monday that talks between Moscow and Kyiv negotiators have so far yielded no major achievements on the Ukrainian issue.

As the delegations prepare for a fresh round of talks in Istanbul, the Kremlin stated Monday that talks between Moscow and Kyiv negotiators have so far yielded no major achievements on the Ukrainian issue. “So far we cannot state any significant achievements or breakthroughs,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, adding that it was “important” that it had been decided to continue the talks in person. Ukraine’s priorities at the Ukrainian-Russian talks in Turkey this week will be “sovereignty and territorial integrity,” President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told his nation Sunday in his nightly address. “We are looking for peace, really, without delay,” he said. “There is an opportunity and a need for a face-to-face meeting in Turkey.

No ‘significant achievements’ so far in Russia-Ukraine talks: Kremlin

India's steel minister Ramchandra Prasad Singh on Sunday (March 27) said that the country is leaning toward continuing to import coking coal from Russia amid the Ukraine crisis.&nbsp;

In a press conference in New Delhi, Singh as quoted by Reuters said, "We are moving in the direction of importing coking coal from Russia."&nbsp;

The minister further said that India plans to double imports of Russian coking coal, which is a key ingredient in making steel. He also said that the country had imported 4.5 million tonnes, although he did not tell the exact time and period of import. &nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-diamond-city-gets-the-countrys-first-steel-roaddetails-here-465937">India's diamond city gets the country's first 'steel road'. Details here</a>

In an apparent reference to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, the minister said that "smooth supplies" from Russia of coking coal have been affected. Although, he neither gave any specifics nor revealed details.&nbsp;

Soon after Russia ordered special "military operations" in Ukraine on February 24, Western countries slapped Russia with multiple sanctions, leaving the country's economy reeling and in global isolation.&nbsp;

The conflict, which is escalating with the passing of each day, has impacted the world economies immensely. , India, a major buyer of Russian goods from commodities to weapons, has abstained from several key United Nations votes condemning the invasion.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-german-states-outlaw-the-display-of-russias-z-war-symbol-465969">Two German states outlaw the display of Russia's 'Z' war symbol</a>

It has been understood that Russia, typically India's sixth-largest supplier of coking and thermal coal, could start offering more competitive prices to Chinese and Indian buyers as European and other customers spurn Russia because of sanctions.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine: Poland must send warplanes amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

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(With inputs from agencies)

India's steel minister Ramchandra Prasad Singh on Sunday (March 27) said that the country is leaning toward continuing to import coking coal from Russia amid the Ukraine crisis.

India's steel minister Ramchandra Prasad Singh on Sunday (March 27) said that the country is leaning toward continuing to import coking coal from Russia amid the Ukraine crisis. In a press conference in New Delhi, Singh as quoted by Reuters said, "We are moving in the direction of importing coking coal from Russia." The minister further said that India plans to double imports of Russian coking coal, which is a key ingredient in making steel. He also said that the country had imported 4.5 million tonnes, although he did not tell the exact time and period of import. ALSO READ | India's diamond city gets the country's first 'steel road'. Details here In an apparent reference to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, the minister said that "smooth supplies" from Russia of coking coal have been affected. Although, he neither gave any specifics nor revealed details. Soon after Russia ordered special "military operations" in Ukraine on February 24, Western countries slapped Russia with multiple sanctions, leaving the country's economy reeling and in global isolation. The conflict, which is escalating with the passing of each day, has impacted the world economies immensely. , India, a major buyer of Russian goods from commodities to weapons, has abstained from several key United Nations votes condemning the invasion. ALSO READ | Two German states outlaw the display of Russia's 'Z' war symbol It has been understood that Russia, typically India's sixth-largest supplier of coking and thermal coal, could start offering more competitive prices to Chinese and Indian buyers as European and other customers spurn Russia because of sanctions. WATCH | Ukraine: Poland must send warplanes amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine × (With inputs from agencies)

Is India leaning toward continued import of Russian coking coal?

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;

Officials in Mariupol, a strategic port city, said Friday they fear 300 people died in last week's Russian strike on a theatre where hundreds of people were sheltering.

"From eyewitnesses, information is emerging that about 300 people died in the Drama Theatre of Mariupol following strikes by a Russian aircraft," Mariupol City Hall wrote on Telegram.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-month-of-russia-ukraine-conflict-here-are-the-top-10-developments-465411">One month of Russia-Ukraine conflict: Here are the top 10 developments</a>

In the aftermath of last week's strike, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told the press that hundreds of people had taken cover in the building. It is believed most were women and children.

City officials in Mariupol said Friday that the theatre was destroyed in what they called a "cynical" attack, adding that Russia was aware civilians were inside the building.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-officials-say-mariupol-art-school-used-as-shelter-bombed-by-russians-463947">Ukraine: Officials say Mariupol art school used as shelter bombed by Russians</a>

The leader of Chechnya, a Russian republic in the south, said Thursday that forces from his region had taken control of Mariupol City Hall and raised the Russian flag.

The port city of Mariupol has been shelled relentlessly by Russian forces. According to the city council, 30,000 people have been able to flee so far, but 350,000 people are still trapped in the city.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: 1 month of Ukraine invasion: More bluster from NATO 
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A satellite photo taken earlier this week shows a large building with a red roof and "DETI" the Russian word for "children" painted in large white letters on the tarmac to the front and the back of it.

Physical damage to Mariupol has been described as "enormous" by the city council. A report estimated that about 80 per cent of the city's homes had been destroyed and that almost 30 per cent could not be repaired.

As per President Zelensky, almost 100,000 people remain trapped without food, water, or power in the besieged city and are subjected to fierce shelling by Russian forces.

(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. Officials in Mariupol, a strategic port city, said Friday they fear 300 people died in last week's Russian strike on a theatre where hundreds of people were sheltering. "From eyewitnesses, information is emerging that about 300 people died in the Drama Theatre of Mariupol following strikes by a Russian aircraft," Mariupol City Hall wrote on Telegram. Also read | One month of Russia-Ukraine conflict: Here are the top 10 developments In the aftermath of last week's strike, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told the press that hundreds of people had taken cover in the building. It is believed most were women and children. City officials in Mariupol said Friday that the theatre was destroyed in what they called a "cynical" attack, adding that Russia was aware civilians were inside the building. Also read | Ukraine: Officials say Mariupol art school used as shelter bombed by Russians The leader of Chechnya, a Russian republic in the south, said Thursday that forces from his region had taken control of Mariupol City Hall and raised the Russian flag. The port city of Mariupol has been shelled relentlessly by Russian forces. According to the city council, 30,000 people have been able to flee so far, but 350,000 people are still trapped in the city. Watch | Gravitas: 1 month of Ukraine invasion: More bluster from NATO A satellite photo taken earlier this week shows a large building with a red roof and "DETI" the Russian word for "children" painted in large white letters on the tarmac to the front and the back of it. Physical damage to Mariupol has been described as "enormous" by the city council. A report estimated that about 80 per cent of the city's homes had been destroyed and that almost 30 per cent could not be repaired. As per President Zelensky, almost 100,000 people remain trapped without food, water, or power in the besieged city and are subjected to fierce shelling by Russian forces. (With inputs from agencies)

Mariupol theater attack may have claimed 300 lives, mostly women and children: City Hall

It has been one month since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the full-scale attack on Ukraine on 24 February 2022.

Since that many key events have taken place. Here's a wrap up of the most significant developments in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

1. The confirmed civilian death toll in Ukraine now exceeds 1,000, according to the UN

At least 1,035 people have been killed and 1,650 have been wounded in one month of fighting in Ukraine, according to the United Nations human rights office.

The statement states that ninety children were among the dead, adding that the true numbers were believed to be much higher because of delays in reporting from the heavily fought areas like Mariupol, a besieged city in southern Ukraine.

<img alt="Civilian casualities" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9b4c3dd5-82d0-4321-8f3a-6021bdf89283" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%284%29_1.jpg" />

2. Troop casualties

Regarding troop casualties, Ukraine reports that 15,800 Russian soldiers have perished.

Western estimates put the number of dead, wounded, missing, or otherwise out of action Russian soldiers at up to 40,000.

President Zelensky announced last week that 1,300 Ukrainian soldiers had been killed. Kyiv has not provided an update since.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-warns-nato-retaliation-if-russia-uses-chemical-weapons-in-ukraine-465405" hreflang="en">Biden warns NATO retaliation if Russia uses chemical weapons in Ukraine</a>

3. Europe's worst refugee crisis since World War 2

Nearly 3.7 million people have fled Ukraine since Russia's invasion a month ago, according to the UN.

There are now estimates that over 10 million people -- over a quarter of the population in the areas under government control before the invasion on February 24 -- have fled their homes. Nearly 6.5 million of them are internally displaced.

Children make up almost half of all those who have been displaced. UNICEF stated that 4.3 million children -- more than half the country's estimated 7.5 million children -- have been forced to abandon their homes.

Over 1.8 million of these children are refugees, while another 2.5 million are displaced within their war-torn country, it said.

<img alt="Refugee" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dcc57861-2171-428d-beb5-1a6a9b679dc1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%285%29_1.jpg" />

4. Brussels triple summit

An unprecedented triple summit in Brussels brought together the leaders of NATO, the G7, and European nations to address the continent's worst conflict since the Balkan wars of the 1990s.

The summit saw Western leaders pile on military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine and denounce Moscow's invasion of its neighbour as "barbaric".

In addition to the new NATO combat units, the United States and the United Kingdom increased aid and expanded sanctions against new targets, including the stepdaughter of Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainians-need-to-achieve-peace-halt-russian-bombardment-says-president-volodymyr-zelensky-465301" hreflang="en">Ukrainians 'need to achieve peace', halt Russian bombardment, says President Volodymyr Zelensky</a>

"The single most important thing is for us to stay unified and the world continue to focus on what a brute this guy is and all the innocent people's lives that are being lost and ruined," Biden told reporters in Brussels, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"Putin has already crossed the red line into barbarism," added British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

<img alt="Brussels summit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ae37d30c-f3ed-4695-ab5c-54d5e7fe0230" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%283%29_0.jpg" />

5. NATO strengthens its defenses&nbsp;

In response to Russia's war on Ukraine, NATO is beefing up chemical and nuclear defenses for its forces in eastern Europe, said alliance head Jens Stoltenberg.

"Our top military commander General Wolters has activated NATO's chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defence elements, and allies are deploying additional chemical and biological and nuclear defences to reinforce our existing and new battle groups."

<img alt="Jens " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b312e12-5c32-4082-8411-0a6b18a432c5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%287%29_2.jpg" />

6. Ukraine pleads for unlimited aid&nbsp;

As its war entered its second month, Ukraine pressed for unlimited military aid from NATO in order for its troops to turn from defending territory to pushing Russian forces out, warning that Moscow could use chemical weapons.

According to Volodymyr Zelensky, Russia has been launching phosphorus bombs on Ukraine and shelling civilian areas at will, thus "the threat of full-scale use by Russia of chemical weapons on the territory of Ukraine is real."

"A month of heroic resistance. A month of the darkest suffering," he told the leaders.

"To save people and our cities, Ukraine needs military assistance without restrictions," Zelensky said. "In the same way that Russia is using its full arsenal without restrictions against us." &nbsp;

<img alt="Zelensky" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fd491894-40c3-4f32-8374-076dfe140f89" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%286%29_0.jpg" />

7. UN General Assembly approves Ukraine aid resolution, criticises Russia

As many as three-quarters of the UN General Assembly has&nbsp;called for aid access and civilian protection in Ukraine, criticising Russia for creating a "dire" humanitarian crisis.

This is the second time the 193-member General Assembly has isolated Russia over what Moscow calls a "special military operation" intended to destroy Ukraine's military infrastructure.

Ukraine and its allies drafted the resolution, which received 140 votes in support and five votes against - Russia, Syria, North Korea, Eritrea and Belarus - while 38 countries, including China, abstained.

8. China rejects Russian claims of "prior knowledge" of attacks against Ukraine

China's ministry of defence has stated that it is false to state that China knew in advance about Russia's invasion of Ukraine and that such claims are false.

It was made in response to allegations in foreign media that China ignored warnings from the US that Russia would attack Ukraine.

China strongly disagrees with and rejects these accusations, which it says were made to "shirk responsibility and smear China", the Chinese defence ministry said in a statement.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: 1 month of Ukraine invasion: More bluster from NATO 
&nbsp;

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9. US sets red lines for China helping Russia dodge sanctions

Attempting to deter China from assisting sanctions-hit Russia, the Biden administration has issued warnings to Beijing not to take advantage of business opportunities created by sanctions, assist Moscow in evading export controls, or process its banned financial transactions.

Although China has expressed deep concern about the war in Ukraine, it is yet to condemn Russian action.

<img alt="US" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0de7a5e2-6776-425f-bc40-4d70f2677316" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%288%29_4.jpg" />

10. ICC prosecutor calls for international support in Ukraine war-crimes probe

In an appeal to a coalition of countries to support the investigation of war crimes in Ukraine, the International Criminal Court chief prosecutor said "things can get worse" unless the international community takes action.

ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan spoke at a meeting of a British-led coalition in The Hague, where 38 countries have offered the court financial, military and legal assistance.

A formal inquiry into war crimes and crimes against humanity in Ukraine was opened by Khan on Feb. 28, just days after Russia invaded its smaller neighbour.

Ukraine and Russia aren't members of the ICC, but Kyiv has authorised the court to investigate on its territory and a team of investigators is gathering evidence there.

(With inputs from agencies)

It has been one month since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the full-scale attack on Ukraine on 24 February 2022. Since that many key events have taken place.

It has been one month since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the full-scale attack on Ukraine on 24 February 2022. Since that many key events have taken place. Here's a wrap up of the most significant developments in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. 1. The confirmed civilian death toll in Ukraine now exceeds 1,000, according to the UN At least 1,035 people have been killed and 1,650 have been wounded in one month of fighting in Ukraine, according to the United Nations human rights office. The statement states that ninety children were among the dead, adding that the true numbers were believed to be much higher because of delays in reporting from the heavily fought areas like Mariupol, a besieged city in southern Ukraine. 2. Troop casualties Regarding troop casualties, Ukraine reports that 15,800 Russian soldiers have perished. Western estimates put the number of dead, wounded, missing, or otherwise out of action Russian soldiers at up to 40,000. President Zelensky announced last week that 1,300 Ukrainian soldiers had been killed. Kyiv has not provided an update since. Also read | Biden warns NATO retaliation if Russia uses chemical weapons in Ukraine 3. Europe's worst refugee crisis since World War 2 Nearly 3.7 million people have fled Ukraine since Russia's invasion a month ago, according to the UN. There are now estimates that over 10 million people -- over a quarter of the population in the areas under government control before the invasion on February 24 -- have fled their homes. Nearly 6.5 million of them are internally displaced. Children make up almost half of all those who have been displaced. UNICEF stated that 4.3 million children -- more than half the country's estimated 7.5 million children -- have been forced to abandon their homes. Over 1.8 million of these children are refugees, while another 2.5 million are displaced within their war-torn country, it said. 4. Brussels triple summit An unprecedented triple summit in Brussels brought together the leaders of NATO, the G7, and European nations to address the continent's worst conflict since the Balkan wars of the 1990s. The summit saw Western leaders pile on military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine and denounce Moscow's invasion of its neighbour as "barbaric". In addition to the new NATO combat units, the United States and the United Kingdom increased aid and expanded sanctions against new targets, including the stepdaughter of Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. Also read | Ukrainians 'need to achieve peace', halt Russian bombardment, says President Volodymyr Zelensky "The single most important thing is for us to stay unified and the world continue to focus on what a brute this guy is and all the innocent people's lives that are being lost and ruined," Biden told reporters in Brussels, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin. "Putin has already crossed the red line into barbarism," added British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. 5. NATO strengthens its defenses In response to Russia's war on Ukraine, NATO is beefing up chemical and nuclear defenses for its forces in eastern Europe, said alliance head Jens Stoltenberg. "Our top military commander General Wolters has activated NATO's chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defence elements, and allies are deploying additional chemical and biological and nuclear defences to reinforce our existing and new battle groups." 6. Ukraine pleads for unlimited aid As its war entered its second month, Ukraine pressed for unlimited military aid from NATO in order for its troops to turn from defending territory to pushing Russian forces out, warning that Moscow could use chemical weapons. According to Volodymyr Zelensky, Russia has been launching phosphorus bombs on Ukraine and shelling civilian areas at will, thus "the threat of full-scale use by Russia of chemical weapons on the territory of Ukraine is real." "A month of heroic resistance. A month of the darkest suffering," he told the leaders. "To save people and our cities, Ukraine needs military assistance without restrictions," Zelensky said. "In the same way that Russia is using its full arsenal without restrictions against us." 7. UN General Assembly approves Ukraine aid resolution, criticises Russia As many as three-quarters of the UN General Assembly has called for aid access and civilian protection in Ukraine, criticising Russia for creating a "dire" humanitarian crisis. This is the second time the 193-member General Assembly has isolated Russia over what Moscow calls a "special military operation" intended to destroy Ukraine's military infrastructure. Ukraine and its allies drafted the resolution, which received 140 votes in support and five votes against - Russia, Syria, North Korea, Eritrea and Belarus - while 38 countries, including China, abstained. 8. China rejects Russian claims of "prior knowledge" of attacks against Ukraine China's ministry of defence has stated that it is false to state that China knew in advance about Russia's invasion of Ukraine and that such claims are false. It was made in response to allegations in foreign media that China ignored warnings from the US that Russia would attack Ukraine. China strongly disagrees with and rejects these accusations, which it says were made to "shirk responsibility and smear China", the Chinese defence ministry said in a statement. Watch | Gravitas: 1 month of Ukraine invasion: More bluster from NATO 9. US sets red lines for China helping Russia dodge sanctions Attempting to deter China from assisting sanctions-hit Russia, the Biden administration has issued warnings to Beijing not to take advantage of business opportunities created by sanctions, assist Moscow in evading export controls, or process its banned financial transactions. Although China has expressed deep concern about the war in Ukraine, it is yet to condemn Russian action. 10. ICC prosecutor calls for international support in Ukraine war-crimes probe In an appeal to a coalition of countries to support the investigation of war crimes in Ukraine, the International Criminal Court chief prosecutor said "things can get worse" unless the international community takes action. ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan spoke at a meeting of a British-led coalition in The Hague, where 38 countries have offered the court financial, military and legal assistance. A formal inquiry into war crimes and crimes against humanity in Ukraine was opened by Khan on Feb. 28, just days after Russia invaded its smaller neighbour. Ukraine and Russia aren't members of the ICC, but Kyiv has authorised the court to investigate on its territory and a team of investigators is gathering evidence there. (With inputs from agencies)

One month of Russia-Ukraine conflict: Here are the top 10 developments

Russia's media regulator has imposed restrictions on Google News, accusing the company of disseminating "false" material on Russia's offensive in Ukraine.

According to a statement from Russia's media regulator Roskomnadzor reported by the agencies, the decision was made at the request of the Russian General Prosecutor's Office.

“Google provided access to numerous publications and materials that contain false information… about the course of the special military operation on Ukrainian territory,” the statement by Russia's media regulator says. 
 
"We’ve confirmed that some people are having difficulty accessing the Google News app and website in Russia and that this is not due to any technical issues on our end," Google said in statement. 
 
"We’ve worked hard to keep information services like News accessible to people in Russia for as long as possible."

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Will Putin launch a nuclear strike?

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"The American online news resource in question provided access to numerous publications and materials containing inauthentic and publicly important information about the course of the special military operation on the territory of Ukraine," Interfax quoted the regulator as saying. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-spies-in-poland-country-expels-45-russian-diplomats-for-espionage-464868">Russian spies in Poland?: Country expels 45 Russian diplomats for espionage</a> 
 
A new Russian law makes it illegal to report any event that could discredit the Russian military. 
 
Since the beginning of Russia's engagement in Ukraine on February 24, the Russian government has strengthened its grip on information on the internet, one of the country's last bastions of free expression.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Russia's media regulator has imposed restrictions on Google News, accusing the company of disseminating "false" material on Russia's offensive in Ukraine. According to a statement from Russia's media regulator Roskomnadzor reported by the agencies, the decision was made at the request of the Russian General Prosecutor's Office.

Russia's media regulator has imposed restrictions on Google News, accusing the company of disseminating "false" material on Russia's offensive in Ukraine. According to a statement from Russia's media regulator Roskomnadzor reported by the agencies, the decision was made at the request of the Russian General Prosecutor's Office. “Google provided access to numerous publications and materials that contain false information… about the course of the special military operation on Ukrainian territory,” the statement by Russia's media regulator says. "We’ve confirmed that some people are having difficulty accessing the Google News app and website in Russia and that this is not due to any technical issues on our end," Google said in statement. "We’ve worked hard to keep information services like News accessible to people in Russia for as long as possible." WATCH | Gravitas: Will Putin launch a nuclear strike? × "The American online news resource in question provided access to numerous publications and materials containing inauthentic and publicly important information about the course of the special military operation on the territory of Ukraine," Interfax quoted the regulator as saying. Also read | Russian spies in Poland?: Country expels 45 Russian diplomats for espionage A new Russian law makes it illegal to report any event that could discredit the Russian military. Since the beginning of Russia's engagement in Ukraine on February 24, the Russian government has strengthened its grip on information on the internet, one of the country's last bastions of free expression. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia blocks Google over 'inauthentic' information on Ukraine war

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. A senior Pentagon official said on Wednesday (March 23) claimed that the Ukrainian forces have pushed back Russian forces on the frontlines east of Kyiv. The official further told that the Russian army started to establish defensive positions on several fronts in the country as it has retreated more than 30 kilometres east of Kyiv in the past 24 hours. "The Ukrainians have managed to push the Russians back 55 kilometres east and northeast of Kyiv. That is a change from yesterday, the senior official, who requested anonymity, told reporters. ALSO READ | Ukraine uses facial recognition to identify dead Russian soldiers and tell families Pentagon on Tuesday (March 22) had estimated that Russian forces were around 20 kilometres from the centre of the capital. As per the official, to the northwest, "they're [Russian forces] basically digging in and they are establishing defensive positions. So it's not that they're not advancing. They're actually not trying to advance right now." Meanwhile, CNN reported quoting the official that Russian forces are becoming more active in the eastern part of Ukraine in the Donbas area. The report quoted the official as saying that Russian forces have "applied a lot more energy" in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions, the two areas the Kremlin declared as independent republics ahead of last month's invasion. ALSO READ | Zelensky to address Swedish and Danish parliaments in coming days "We're starting to see them sort of dig in around Kyiv, but really trying to go more on the offence than they have been, more energy apply to that eastern part," the official said. "So that's a little bit of a change from what we've been talking about before," the official added. The claims were made a day after Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said that the Ukrainians are "in places and at times going on an offensive." He added they are "going after Russians and pushing them out of places." WATCH | Gravitas: Will Putin launch a nuclear strike? ×

Pentagon says Russian army 'taking defensive positions' in Ukraine

Ukraine is using facial recognition software to identify the bodies of Russian soldiers killed in combat and to trace their families to inform them of their deaths, Ukraine`s vice prime minister told Reuters. 
 
Reuters exclusively reported that Ukraine`s Ministry of Defense this month began using technology from Clearview AI, a New York-based facial recognition provider that finds images on the web that match faces from uploaded photos. It was not clear at that time how the technology would be used. 
 
Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine`s vice prime minister who also runs the ministry of digital transformation, told Reuters in an interview that Ukraine had been using Clearview AI software to find the social media accounts of dead Russian soldiers. 
 
From there, authorities are messaging relatives to make arrangements to collect the body, he said. 
 
"As a courtesy to the mothers of those soldiers, we are disseminating this information over social media to at least let families know that they they`ve lost their sons and to then enable them to come to collect their bodies," Fedorov said, speaking via a translator. 
 
Fedorov declined to specify the number of bodies identified through facial recognition but he said the percentage of recognized individuals claimed by families has been "high." Reuters was unable to independently confirm this. 
 
Opponents of facial recognition, including civil rights groups, have decried Ukraine`s adoption of Clearview, citing the possibility of misidentification. 
 
Clearview is battling a lawsuit in U.S. federal court in Chicago filed by consumers under the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act. The ongoing case concerns whether the company`s gathering of images from the internet violated privacy law. 
 
Clearview says its actions have been legal. It says its face matches should only be a starting point in investigations. 
 
Fedorov said that Ukraine was not using the technology to identify its own troops killed in battle. He did not specify why. 
 
Ukraine`s Ministry of Internal Affairs did not respond to requests for comment. It has been overseeing the country`s Look For Your Own project, a Telegram channel where it posts images of unidentified captured or killed Russian soldiers and invites claims from relatives. 
 
The Ukrainian government has an online form where Russian relatives can submit a claim to collect a body. Fedorov did not provide details of how the bodies are being returned to families and Reuters could not independently determine that. 
 
Ukraine`s military has said some 15,000 Russian soldiers have been killed since Russia invaded on Feb 24. Russia has said its casualties are much lower during what it describes as a "special military operation" to demilitarize Ukraine. 
 
The Kremlin did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment on Ukraine`s use of Clearview. 
 
Clearview, which offered its service free of charge to Ukraine after the Russian invasion, has said its search engine includes over 2 billion images from VKontakte, a popular Russian social media service. 
 
VKontakte did not respond to a request for comment. 
 
Facial recognition is just one of many tools, including cloud services from Amazon.com Inc, that Ukraine has been able to adopt for free as Western businesses come to its aid, Fedorov said. 
 
Amazon did not respond to requests for comment. 
 
Richard Bassed, head of the forensic medicine department at Monash University in Australia, said fingerprints, dental records and DNA remain the most common ways of confirming someone`s identity. 
 
Obtaining pre-death samples of such data from enemy fighters is challenging, though, opening the door to innovative techniques such as facial recognition. 
 
But clouded eyes and injured and expressionless faces potentially make facial recognition unreliable on the dead, said Bassed, who has been researching the technology. 
 
In the United States, the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System said it has not adopted automated facial recognition because the technology is not currently generally accepted in the forensic community.

Ukraine is using facial recognition software to identify the bodies of Russian soldiers killed in combat and to trace their families to inform them of their deaths, Ukraine`s vice prime minister told Reuters.

Ukraine is using facial recognition software to identify the bodies of Russian soldiers killed in combat and to trace their families to inform them of their deaths, Ukraine`s vice prime minister told Reuters. Reuters exclusively reported that Ukraine`s Ministry of Defense this month began using technology from Clearview AI, a New York-based facial recognition provider that finds images on the web that match faces from uploaded photos. It was not clear at that time how the technology would be used. Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine`s vice prime minister who also runs the ministry of digital transformation, told Reuters in an interview that Ukraine had been using Clearview AI software to find the social media accounts of dead Russian soldiers. From there, authorities are messaging relatives to make arrangements to collect the body, he said. "As a courtesy to the mothers of those soldiers, we are disseminating this information over social media to at least let families know that they they`ve lost their sons and to then enable them to come to collect their bodies," Fedorov said, speaking via a translator. Fedorov declined to specify the number of bodies identified through facial recognition but he said the percentage of recognized individuals claimed by families has been "high." Reuters was unable to independently confirm this. Opponents of facial recognition, including civil rights groups, have decried Ukraine`s adoption of Clearview, citing the possibility of misidentification. Clearview is battling a lawsuit in U.S. federal court in Chicago filed by consumers under the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act. The ongoing case concerns whether the company`s gathering of images from the internet violated privacy law. Clearview says its actions have been legal. It says its face matches should only be a starting point in investigations. Fedorov said that Ukraine was not using the technology to identify its own troops killed in battle. He did not specify why. Ukraine`s Ministry of Internal Affairs did not respond to requests for comment. It has been overseeing the country`s Look For Your Own project, a Telegram channel where it posts images of unidentified captured or killed Russian soldiers and invites claims from relatives. The Ukrainian government has an online form where Russian relatives can submit a claim to collect a body. Fedorov did not provide details of how the bodies are being returned to families and Reuters could not independently determine that. Ukraine`s military has said some 15,000 Russian soldiers have been killed since Russia invaded on Feb 24. Russia has said its casualties are much lower during what it describes as a "special military operation" to demilitarize Ukraine. The Kremlin did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment on Ukraine`s use of Clearview. Clearview, which offered its service free of charge to Ukraine after the Russian invasion, has said its search engine includes over 2 billion images from VKontakte, a popular Russian social media service. VKontakte did not respond to a request for comment. Facial recognition is just one of many tools, including cloud services from Amazon.com Inc, that Ukraine has been able to adopt for free as Western businesses come to its aid, Fedorov said. Amazon did not respond to requests for comment. Richard Bassed, head of the forensic medicine department at Monash University in Australia, said fingerprints, dental records and DNA remain the most common ways of confirming someone`s identity. Obtaining pre-death samples of such data from enemy fighters is challenging, though, opening the door to innovative techniques such as facial recognition. But clouded eyes and injured and expressionless faces potentially make facial recognition unreliable on the dead, said Bassed, who has been researching the technology. In the United States, the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System said it has not adopted automated facial recognition because the technology is not currently generally accepted in the forensic community.

Ukraine uses facial recognition to identify dead Russian soldiers and tell families

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, an assessment done by the United States claims that the Russian military committed war crimes in Ukraine after President Vladimir Putin ordered special "military operations" in the neighbouring country.&nbsp;

On Wednesday (March 23), the US said that public information and intelligence it has collected amounts to strong evidence that the war crimes have been committed in Ukraine.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement, "Today, I can announce that, based on information currently available, the US government assesses that members of Russia's forces have committed war crimes in Ukraine."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-provide-6000-missiles-to-ukraine-germany-says-further-strela-missiles-on-way-to-kyiv-465032">UK to provide 6,000 missiles to Ukraine; Germany says further Strela missiles on way to Kyiv</a>

"We've seen numerous credible reports of indiscriminate attacks and attacks deliberately targeting civilians, as well as other atrocities," Blinken said.&nbsp;

The US assessment that tells that war crimes were committed "is based on a careful review of available information from public and intelligence sources," he said.&nbsp;

"We are committed to pursuing accountability using every tool available, including criminal prosecutions," he added.&nbsp;

As per United Nations, the concept of war crimes developed particularly at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century.&nbsp;

During that time, the international humanitarian law, which is also known as the law of armed conflict, was codified. &nbsp;

The Hague Conventions was adopted in 1899 and 1907 focus on the prohibition of warring parties to use certain means and methods of warfare.&nbsp;

War crimes mean grave breaches of the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949. Violation includes wilful killing, torture or inhuman treatment, wilfully causing great suffering, extensive destruction and appropriation of property, etc.&nbsp;

ALSO&nbsp; READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-says-russian-army-taking-defensive-positions-in-ukraine-465022">Pentagon says Russian army 'taking defensive positions' in Ukraine</a>

<hr />
Outrage over Mariupol theatre bombing

The announcement of assessment came as Russian forces continued to bombard the southern Ukraine city of Mariupol.&nbsp;

Some days ago, Russian forces bombed&nbsp;a maternity hospital and a theatre where hundreds of civilians had taken refuge. The incident had sparked global outrage.&nbsp;

However, Blinken did not specify cases that the United States had concluded amounted to war crimes. But he talked about the devastation of Mariupol in his announcement.&nbsp;

"As of March 22, officials in besieged Mariupol said that more than 2,400 civilians had been killed in that city alone," he said.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden last week labelled Putin as "a war criminal" for attacking Ukraine.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russian invasion of Ukraine continues, NATO leaders prepare for an emergency summit

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(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. Amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, an assessment done by the United States claims that the Russian military committed war crimes in Ukraine after President Vladimir Putin ordered special "military operations" in the neighbouring country. On Wednesday (March 23), the US said that public information and intelligence it has collected amounts to strong evidence that the war crimes have been committed in Ukraine. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement, "Today, I can announce that, based on information currently available, the US government assesses that members of Russia's forces have committed war crimes in Ukraine." ALSO READ | UK to provide 6,000 missiles to Ukraine; Germany says further Strela missiles on way to Kyiv "We've seen numerous credible reports of indiscriminate attacks and attacks deliberately targeting civilians, as well as other atrocities," Blinken said. The US assessment that tells that war crimes were committed "is based on a careful review of available information from public and intelligence sources," he said. "We are committed to pursuing accountability using every tool available, including criminal prosecutions," he added. As per United Nations, the concept of war crimes developed particularly at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century. During that time, the international humanitarian law, which is also known as the law of armed conflict, was codified. The Hague Conventions was adopted in 1899 and 1907 focus on the prohibition of warring parties to use certain means and methods of warfare. War crimes mean grave breaches of the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949. Violation includes wilful killing, torture or inhuman treatment, wilfully causing great suffering, extensive destruction and appropriation of property, etc. ALSO READ | Pentagon says Russian army 'taking defensive positions' in Ukraine Outrage over Mariupol theatre bombing The announcement of assessment came as Russian forces continued to bombard the southern Ukraine city of Mariupol. Some days ago, Russian forces bombed a maternity hospital and a theatre where hundreds of civilians had taken refuge. The incident had sparked global outrage. However, Blinken did not specify cases that the United States had concluded amounted to war crimes. But he talked about the devastation of Mariupol in his announcement. "As of March 22, officials in besieged Mariupol said that more than 2,400 civilians had been killed in that city alone," he said. US President Joe Biden last week labelled Putin as "a war criminal" for attacking Ukraine. WATCH | Russian invasion of Ukraine continues, NATO leaders prepare for an emergency summit × (With inputs from agencies)

US government assesses Russian forces committed war crimes in Ukraine

One month since Russia invaded Ukraine: Hundreds dead, millions displaced - When will it end?

Amid escalating Ukraine crisis, another nuclear warning has been issued. A top Russian diplomat warned the NATO countries Wednesday (March 23), as he said that they are dealing with nuclear power and should not threaten Moscow.&nbsp;

During an interview with Sky News, Dmitry Polyanskiy, who is a Russian Deputy Ambassador to the UN, said, "If Russia is provoked by NATO, if Russia is attacked by NATO I don't know ... we are a nuclear power, why not?"&nbsp;

He was then asked, whether it was a "legitimate thing" to say, Polyanskiy replied: "I don't think it's the right thing to be saying but it's not a right thing to threaten Russia and to try to interfere."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oksana-baulina-russian-journalist-killed-during-bombardment-in-kyiv-465090">Oksana Baulina: Russian journalist killed during bombardment in Kyiv</a>

"So when you're dealing with a nuclear power of course you have to calculate all the possible outcomes of your behaviour," he further added.&nbsp;

On being asked about the allegations of war crimes,&nbsp;Polyanskiy said, "I don't think we're committing war crimes in Ukraine. Of course, it's not up to me to assess. I'm not there. You're not there. You're looking at the videos, you're looking at the many of videos which are considered to be fake news. You believe one thing, I believe another thing."

During an interaction with CNN International on Tuesday (March 22), Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Russia would only use nuclear weapons in the context of the Ukraine conflict if it were facing an "existential threat".&nbsp;

Peskov said as quoted by the media outlet, "We have a concept of domestic security, and it's public. You can read all the reasons for nuclear arms to be used. So if it is an existential threat for our country, then it can be used in accordance with our concept."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russian reformer Anatoly Chubais quits as Putin's special envoy

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&nbsp;

Amid escalating Ukraine crisis, another nuclear warning has been issued. A top Russian diplomat warned the NATO countries Wednesday (March 23), as he said that they are dealing with nuclear power and should not threaten Moscow.

Amid escalating Ukraine crisis, another nuclear warning has been issued. A top Russian diplomat warned the NATO countries Wednesday (March 23), as he said that they are dealing with nuclear power and should not threaten Moscow. During an interview with Sky News, Dmitry Polyanskiy, who is a Russian Deputy Ambassador to the UN, said, "If Russia is provoked by NATO, if Russia is attacked by NATO I don't know ... we are a nuclear power, why not?" He was then asked, whether it was a "legitimate thing" to say, Polyanskiy replied: "I don't think it's the right thing to be saying but it's not a right thing to threaten Russia and to try to interfere." ALSO READ | Oksana Baulina: Russian journalist killed during bombardment in Kyiv "So when you're dealing with a nuclear power of course you have to calculate all the possible outcomes of your behaviour," he further added. On being asked about the allegations of war crimes, Polyanskiy said, "I don't think we're committing war crimes in Ukraine. Of course, it's not up to me to assess. I'm not there. You're not there. You're looking at the videos, you're looking at the many of videos which are considered to be fake news. You believe one thing, I believe another thing." During an interaction with CNN International on Tuesday (March 22), Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Russia would only use nuclear weapons in the context of the Ukraine conflict if it were facing an "existential threat". Peskov said as quoted by the media outlet, "We have a concept of domestic security, and it's public. You can read all the reasons for nuclear arms to be used. So if it is an existential threat for our country, then it can be used in accordance with our concept." WATCH | Russian reformer Anatoly Chubais quits as Putin's special envoy ×

'We are a nuclear power, why not?': Top Russian diplomat over Ukraine invasion

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict has caused mass destruction with civilians feeling Ukrainian cities to save their lives. The situation continues to deteriorate, with bombing and shelling by the Russian military.&nbsp;

In the latest development, a Russian journalist named Oksana Baulina was killed during shelling. She was working for the investigative news outlet The Insider and was killed when Russian troops shelled a residential neighbourhood in the Ukrainian capital.

Since the conflict began a month ago on February 24, at least five journalists have died while covering the Russian invasion. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-provide-6000-missiles-to-ukraine-germany-says-further-strela-missiles-on-way-to-kyiv-465032">UK to provide 6,000 missiles to Ukraine; Germany says further Strela missiles on way to Kyiv</a>

On Wednesday (March 23), the media outlet on its website said, "Insider journalist Oksana Baulina died during a bombardment in Kyiv while carrying out an editorial assignment ... another civilian died with her."&nbsp;

The outlet, whose editorial offices are based in Latvia, in its statement also noted that during the shelling, another civilian was also killed alongside Baulina and two other people were wounded.&nbsp;

Important to note that Baulina previously also worked for Russian opposition leader Navalny's anti-corruption group. She had worked for Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation until it was declared an extremist organisation last year.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-ukraine-invasion-russia-intesifies-crackdown-on-media-464863">Imprisonment of up to 15 years? Amid Ukraine invasion, Russia intensifies crackdown on media</a>

Navalny's arrest had prompted her to leave the country and focus on reporting on corruption in Russia for The Insider, the news outlet said.&nbsp;

"The Insider expresses its deepest condolences to Oksana's family and friends," it said.&nbsp;

Sergiy Tomilenko, head of the Ukrainian journalists' union, confirmed the death in a statement on Facebook, saying that Baulina was reporting on the aftermath of shelling when she was hit by fresh fire.

As per a report by The Guardian, the 42-year-old Baulina began her career working for lifestyle magazines including Time Out Moscow and In Style.&nbsp;

But after a decade she shifted to more political work and became a producer for Alexander Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation.&nbsp;

WATCH | Conflict in Ukraine affect oil supplies, price increases take toll on businesses

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The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict has caused mass destruction with civilians feeling Ukrainian cities to save their lives. The situation continues to deteriorate, with bombing and shelling by the Russian military.

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict has caused mass destruction with civilians feeling Ukrainian cities to save their lives. The situation continues to deteriorate, with bombing and shelling by the Russian military. In the latest development, a Russian journalist named Oksana Baulina was killed during shelling. She was working for the investigative news outlet The Insider and was killed when Russian troops shelled a residential neighbourhood in the Ukrainian capital. Since the conflict began a month ago on February 24, at least five journalists have died while covering the Russian invasion. ALSO READ | UK to provide 6,000 missiles to Ukraine; Germany says further Strela missiles on way to Kyiv On Wednesday (March 23), the media outlet on its website said, "Insider journalist Oksana Baulina died during a bombardment in Kyiv while carrying out an editorial assignment ... another civilian died with her." The outlet, whose editorial offices are based in Latvia, in its statement also noted that during the shelling, another civilian was also killed alongside Baulina and two other people were wounded. Important to note that Baulina previously also worked for Russian opposition leader Navalny's anti-corruption group. She had worked for Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation until it was declared an extremist organisation last year. ALSO READ | Imprisonment of up to 15 years? Amid Ukraine invasion, Russia intensifies crackdown on media Navalny's arrest had prompted her to leave the country and focus on reporting on corruption in Russia for The Insider, the news outlet said. "The Insider expresses its deepest condolences to Oksana's family and friends," it said. Sergiy Tomilenko, head of the Ukrainian journalists' union, confirmed the death in a statement on Facebook, saying that Baulina was reporting on the aftermath of shelling when she was hit by fresh fire. As per a report by The Guardian, the 42-year-old Baulina began her career working for lifestyle magazines including Time Out Moscow and In Style. But after a decade she shifted to more political work and became a producer for Alexander Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation. WATCH | Conflict in Ukraine affect oil supplies, price increases take toll on businesses ×

Oksana Baulina: Russian journalist killed during bombardment in Kyiv

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.

Marina Ovsyannikova, a Russian journalist who recently grabbed attention by hijacking a state television broadcast to denounce the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, has been accused of being a British spy.&nbsp;

In an on-air protest on Russia's Channel One on March 16&nbsp;evening, the 43-year-old Ovsyannikova held up an anti-war sign behind a studio presenter.&nbsp;

The sign read: "Stop the war. Don't believe the propaganda. They're lying to you". She also shouted slogans condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The editor has also been charged with unlawful protest after the incident went viral globally.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/western-sanctions-might-impact-69-year-old-vladimir-putins-youthful-looks-heres-how-464508">Western sanctions might impact 69-year-old Vladimir Putin's youthful looks. Here's how</a>

In her first television interview with Reuters since her extraordinary protest, Ovsyannikova said that she had no plans to flee Russia and that she hoped she would not face criminal charges.&nbsp;

In the latest development, Kirill Kleimyonov, who is the head of Channel One's news division, appeared on the news programme and claimed that she was a British spy.&nbsp;

"Not long before [the protest], according to our information, Marina Ovsyannikova spoke with the British embassy. Who among you has had a telephone conversation with a foreign embassy?" Kleimyonov claimed as quoted by The Times.&nbsp;

He added, "Emotional impulse is one thing. But betrayal is something else." He also said that the on-air protest betrayed her country "and at the same time all of us, people with whom he has worked side by side for almost 20 years".

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/does-this-700-million-superyacht-belongs-to-russian-president-vladimir-putin-464496">Does this $700 million superyacht belong to Russian President Vladimir Putin? &nbsp;</a>

"She betrays coldly, prudently, for a firmly agreed [financial] bonus - by the way, so as not to lose her previous one. The woman with the poster timed the action exactly to receive her next salary payment - so betrayal is always one's personal choice," he added.&nbsp;

"It is necessary to call things by their proper names. Otherwise, if the famous action for 30 pieces of silver coins were called an impulse of the soul, the history of the world would be different," he said.&nbsp;

"Just in case, I wish everyone good health. To all without exception. Even traitors. They have to continue to live with this burden," he further added.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Marina Ovsyannikova, a Russian journalist who recently grabbed attention by hijacking a state television broadcast to denounce the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, has been accused of being a British spy. In an on-air protest on Russia's Channel One on March 16 evening, the 43-year-old Ovsyannikova held up an anti-war sign behind a studio presenter. The sign read: "Stop the war. Don't believe the propaganda. They're lying to you". She also shouted slogans condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The editor has also been charged with unlawful protest after the incident went viral globally. ALSO READ | Western sanctions might impact 69-year-old Vladimir Putin's youthful looks. Here's how In her first television interview with Reuters since her extraordinary protest, Ovsyannikova said that she had no plans to flee Russia and that she hoped she would not face criminal charges. In the latest development, Kirill Kleimyonov, who is the head of Channel One's news division, appeared on the news programme and claimed that she was a British spy. "Not long before [the protest], according to our information, Marina Ovsyannikova spoke with the British embassy. Who among you has had a telephone conversation with a foreign embassy?" Kleimyonov claimed as quoted by The Times. He added, "Emotional impulse is one thing. But betrayal is something else." He also said that the on-air protest betrayed her country "and at the same time all of us, people with whom he has worked side by side for almost 20 years". ALSO READ | Does this $700 million superyacht belong to Russian President Vladimir Putin? "She betrays coldly, prudently, for a firmly agreed [financial] bonus - by the way, so as not to lose her previous one. The woman with the poster timed the action exactly to receive her next salary payment - so betrayal is always one's personal choice," he added. "It is necessary to call things by their proper names. Otherwise, if the famous action for 30 pieces of silver coins were called an impulse of the soul, the history of the world would be different," he said. "Just in case, I wish everyone good health. To all without exception. Even traitors. They have to continue to live with this burden," he further added. ×

Marina Ovsyannikova: Russian TV protester accused of being a British spy

Taiwan is considering extending its four-month military service requirement, the country's defence minister said Wednesday. The announcement comes amid tensions between Taiwan and China, which are further exacerbated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The war in Ukraine has stirred debate in Chinese-claimed&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;about its own readiness and tactics should Beijing ever make good on threats to take the island by force.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-with-ukraine-under-attack-taiwan-military-gears-up-461763#reservists-being-trained-461756">In pics | With Ukraine under attack, Taiwan military gears up</a>

Chiu Kuo-cheng, minister of defence, said the government would not make any changes immediately, but he pledged to release the results of its internal research regardless of what they decide.

In response to questions from lawmakers, Chiu said that proposals for extending military service were still being considered and a plan would "definitely" be presented this year.

"Currently, we are still in the research stage. This year we will definitely have results."&nbsp;

"We must consider the enemy situation and our defensive operations in terms of military strength," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-us-allies-talk-of-expelling-russia-from-g20-china-defends-moscow-calls-it-an-important-member-464908" hreflang="en">As US, allies talk of expelling Russia from G20, China defends Moscow, calls it an 'important member'</a>

The changes would not become effective for a year following their announcement, and any changes would be made in consultation with legislators.

There have been some calls in Taiwan to extend the four-month compulsory military service.

China has increased its military harassment of Taiwan in recent years, sending fighter jets to Taiwan almost daily.&nbsp; 
During a civil war in 1949, Taiwan and China separated.

The Taiwan-China situation has been compared to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February by many experts.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia reiterates 'nuclear threat', will use weapons if required

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-reiterates-nuclear-threat-will-use-weapons-if-required-464885/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Despite this, the situation does not fit a simple narrative, and experts have said so far that military action from China is unlikely.&nbsp;

An official of Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party publicly stated that extending the mandatory service period is "necessary" due to the war in Ukraine.

Taiwan has shown sympathy for the war between Russia and Ukraine, having raised more than $10.6 million in five days to help Ukraine's refugee relief efforts.

There are more than 215,000 members of Taiwan's military, and the majority are volunteers. Taiwanese men over the age of 18 are required to serve in the military for four months.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan is considering extending its four-month military service requirement, the country's defence minister said Wednesday. The announcement comes amid tensions between Taiwan and China, which are further exacerbated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Taiwan is considering extending its four-month military service requirement, the country's defence minister said Wednesday. The announcement comes amid tensions between Taiwan and China, which are further exacerbated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The war in Ukraine has stirred debate in Chinese-claimed Taiwan about its own readiness and tactics should Beijing ever make good on threats to take the island by force. Also read | In pics | With Ukraine under attack, Taiwan military gears up Chiu Kuo-cheng, minister of defence, said the government would not make any changes immediately, but he pledged to release the results of its internal research regardless of what they decide. In response to questions from lawmakers, Chiu said that proposals for extending military service were still being considered and a plan would "definitely" be presented this year. "Currently, we are still in the research stage. This year we will definitely have results." "We must consider the enemy situation and our defensive operations in terms of military strength," he said. Also read | As US, allies talk of expelling Russia from G20, China defends Moscow, calls it an 'important member' The changes would not become effective for a year following their announcement, and any changes would be made in consultation with legislators. There have been some calls in Taiwan to extend the four-month compulsory military service. China has increased its military harassment of Taiwan in recent years, sending fighter jets to Taiwan almost daily. During a civil war in 1949, Taiwan and China separated. The Taiwan-China situation has been compared to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February by many experts. Watch | Russia reiterates 'nuclear threat', will use weapons if required Despite this, the situation does not fit a simple narrative, and experts have said so far that military action from China is unlikely. An official of Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party publicly stated that extending the mandatory service period is "necessary" due to the war in Ukraine. Taiwan has shown sympathy for the war between Russia and Ukraine, having raised more than $10.6 million in five days to help Ukraine's refugee relief efforts. There are more than 215,000 members of Taiwan's military, and the majority are volunteers. Taiwanese men over the age of 18 are required to serve in the military for four months. (With inputs from agencies)

Eyeing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Taiwan mulls extending compulsory military service

It's been almost a month since Russia started its invasion of Ukraine after President Vladimir Putin ordered so-called special "military operations" in the neighbouring country to "demilitarise" it.

It's been almost a month since Russia started its invasion of Ukraine after President Vladimir Putin ordered so-called special "military operations" in the neighbouring country to "demilitarise" it. But little did he know about the resistance of Ukraine, which defied all expectations and tried to block Russian forces. Nearly a month after the Russian invasion, its forces have continued heavy bombings and shelling that have caused massive damage to the cities. One of those cities is Mariupol. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said almost 100,000 people are trapped by Russian bombardment and facing starvation in the ruins of Mariupol. According to Human Rights Watch, tens of thousands of residents have already fled the besieged southern port city, leaving it to be the "freezing hellscape riddled with dead bodies and destroyed buildings". ALSO READ | Amid Ukraine invasion, Russia intensifies crackdown on media For Ukrainians besieged in Mariupol and other cities, Russian talk of peace rings hollow as they come under indiscriminate shelling that Western countries say amounts to a war crime. "Failing in their war against the Ukrainian people, the enemy is executing the total destruction of critical infrastructure," Ukraine's armed forces command said on Facebook. Satellite images of Mariupol released by private company Maxar showed a charred landscape, with several buildings ablaze and smoke billowing from the city. United Nations chief Antonio Guterres said, "Even if Mariupol falls, Ukraine cannot be conquered city by city, street by street, house by house. This war is unwinnable. Sooner or later, it will have to move from the battlefield to the peace table. That is inevitable." ALSO READ | US sending secretly acquired Soviet defence equipment to Ukraine: Report What makes Mariupol strategically important for Putin? Land bridge: Mariupol is a pivotal target in Putin's war - providing a land bridge between Russian forces in Crimea to the southwest and Russian-controlled territory to the north and east. As per a BBC report, General Sir Richard Barrons, who is a former commander of UK Joint Forces Command, said that capturing Mariupol is vital to Russia's war effort. Barrons said, "When the Russians feel they have successfully concluded that battle, they will have completed a land bridge from Russia to Crimea and they will see this as a major strategic success." Economy: Mariupol is an important port on the Sea of Azov, part of the Black Sea. BBC report stated that it is the biggest port in the Azov Sea region, which is home to major iron and steelworks. If Russia occupies it, it will cause massive harm to Ukraine's economy as it is a key export hub for Ukraine's steel, coal and corn. The port exports to customers in the Middle East and other parts of the world. WATCH | Explained: Why Mariupol is important for Russia? × (With inputs from agencies)

Mariupol: What makes this port city strategically important to Russia?

Russia would only use nuclear weapons in the context of the Ukraine conflict if it were facing an "existential threat," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov during an interaction with CNN International on Tuesday (March 22).&nbsp;

Peskov said as quoted by the media outlet, "We have a concept of domestic security, and it's public. You can read all the reasons for nuclear arms to be used. So if it is an existential threat for our country, then it can be used in accordance with our concept."&nbsp;

Peskov's crucial comments came on being asked whether he was "convinced or confident" that Russian President Vladimir Putin would not use the nuclear option in the Ukrainian context.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-due-to-visit-europe-today-expected-to-announce-new-sanctions-against-russia-464727">US President due to visit Europe today, expected to announce new sanctions against Russia</a>

Western allies fear that Russia might use weapons of mass destruction during its invasion of Ukraine. In the past, Putin hinted at using nuclear weapons against nations that he saw as a threat to Russia.&nbsp;

In February, Putin said in a televised statement: "No matter who tries to stand in our way or all the more so create threats for our country and our people, they must know that Russia will respond immediately, and the consequences will be such as you have never seen in your entire history."&nbsp;

On February 28, Putin had also ordered the Minister of Defense and the chief of the General Staff to place the Russian Army Deterrence Force on "combat alert".&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/drone-warfare-in-ukraine-switchblade-buzzing-bee-drones-vs-russias-orlan-10-463449">Drone warfare in Ukraine: Switchblade 'buzzing bee' drones vs Russia's Orlan-10</a>

Russia has already admitted that it used hypersonic missiles in Ukraine. Russia's defence ministry said that they have used its newest Kinzhal hypersonic missiles for the first time in Ukraine on March 17 to destroy a weapons storage site in the country's west.&nbsp;

Important to note that Russia has never before admitted using high-precision weapons in combat. State news agency RIA Novosti said it was the first use of the Kinzhal hypersonic weapons during the conflict in pro-Western Ukraine.&nbsp;

When it comes to nuclear capability, Russia maintains the world's largest stockpile of nuclear warheads and has earned minimal support around the world for its attack on its ex-Soviet neighbour.&nbsp;

Asked about Peskov's statement, and Russia's&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;stance, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby called Moscow's rhetoric on the potential use of&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;weapons "dangerous."&nbsp;

"It's not the way a responsible&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;power should act," he told reporters.

That said, Kirby stressed that Pentagon officials "haven't seen anything that would lead us to conclude that we need to change our strategic deterrent posture."

"We monitor this as best we can every day," he added.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Zelensky's conditions for Ukraine's neutrality

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&nbsp;

Russia would only use nuclear weapons in the context of the Ukraine conflict if it were facing an "existential threat," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov during an interaction with CNN International on Tuesday (March 22).

Russia would only use nuclear weapons in the context of the Ukraine conflict if it were facing an "existential threat," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov during an interaction with CNN International on Tuesday (March 22). Peskov said as quoted by the media outlet, "We have a concept of domestic security, and it's public. You can read all the reasons for nuclear arms to be used. So if it is an existential threat for our country, then it can be used in accordance with our concept." Peskov's crucial comments came on being asked whether he was "convinced or confident" that Russian President Vladimir Putin would not use the nuclear option in the Ukrainian context. ALSO READ | US President due to visit Europe today, expected to announce new sanctions against Russia Western allies fear that Russia might use weapons of mass destruction during its invasion of Ukraine. In the past, Putin hinted at using nuclear weapons against nations that he saw as a threat to Russia. In February, Putin said in a televised statement: "No matter who tries to stand in our way or all the more so create threats for our country and our people, they must know that Russia will respond immediately, and the consequences will be such as you have never seen in your entire history." On February 28, Putin had also ordered the Minister of Defense and the chief of the General Staff to place the Russian Army Deterrence Force on "combat alert". IN PICS | Drone warfare in Ukraine: Switchblade 'buzzing bee' drones vs Russia's Orlan-10 Russia has already admitted that it used hypersonic missiles in Ukraine. Russia's defence ministry said that they have used its newest Kinzhal hypersonic missiles for the first time in Ukraine on March 17 to destroy a weapons storage site in the country's west. Important to note that Russia has never before admitted using high-precision weapons in combat. State news agency RIA Novosti said it was the first use of the Kinzhal hypersonic weapons during the conflict in pro-Western Ukraine. When it comes to nuclear capability, Russia maintains the world's largest stockpile of nuclear warheads and has earned minimal support around the world for its attack on its ex-Soviet neighbour. Asked about Peskov's statement, and Russia's nuclear stance, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby called Moscow's rhetoric on the potential use of nuclear weapons "dangerous." "It's not the way a responsible nuclear power should act," he told reporters. That said, Kirby stressed that Pentagon officials "haven't seen anything that would lead us to conclude that we need to change our strategic deterrent posture." "We monitor this as best we can every day," he added. WATCH | Gravitas: Zelensky's conditions for Ukraine's neutrality ×

'Russia would use nuclear weapons if...': Moscow warns West over Ukraine invasion

Despite suggestions by some members that Russia could be barred from the group, Beijing has backed President Vladimir Putin in planning to attend the G20 summit in Indonesia later this year.

As per reports US and its allies are considering whether Russia should remain part of the Group of Twenty major economies after its invasion of Ukraine.

However, any move to exclude Russia would probably be vetoed by others, which could mean some countries skip G20 meetings instead.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-spies-in-poland-country-expels-45-russian-diplomats-for-espionage-464868" hreflang="en">Russian spies in Poland?: Country expels 45 Russian diplomats for espionage</a>

The Russian ambassador to Indonesia, which currently holds the rotating G20 chair, said Putin intended to attend the G20 summit on Bali in November.

"It will depend on many, many things, including the COVID situation, which is getting better. So far, his intention is... he wants to," Ambassador Lyudmila Vorobieva told a news conference.

A question about the possible expulsion of Russia from the G20 led her to say that the forum was for discussing economic issues, not a crisis like Ukraine.

"Of course expulsion of Russia from this kind of forum will not help these economic problems to be resolved. On the contrary, without Russia it would be difficult to do so."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-ukraine-invasion-russia-intesifies-crackdown-on-media-464863" hreflang="en">Amid Ukraine invasion, Russia intensifies crackdown on media</a>

The Chinese government, which is yet to condemn Russia's invasion on Wednesday called Russia an "important member" of the G20.

According to Wang Wenbin, a spokesman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, the G20 is a group that needs to find answers to critical issues, such as economic recovery from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19 pandemic.</a>

"No member has the right to remove another country as a member. The G20 should implement real multilateralism, strengthen unity and cooperation," he told a news briefing.

The Indonesian foreign ministry declined to comment on calls for Russia to be excluded from the G20.

In a statement on Tuesday, Poland said it had proposed replacing Russia within the G20 group to officials from the US Department of Commerce and that the suggestion had been met with a "positive response".

Watch |&nbsp;Day 28 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: Russia reiterates 'Nuclear' threat

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Olaf Scholz, the German Chancellor, said G20 members would have to decide, but the matter was not a priority at the moment.

"When it comes to the question of how to proceed with the WTO (World Trade Organization) and the G20, it is imperative to discuss this question with the countries that are involved and not to decide individually," Scholz said.

"It is quite clear that we are busy with something else than coming together in such meetings. We urgently need a ceasefire."

As US President Joe Biden meets with allies in Brussels on Thursday, the topic of Russia's participation in the G20 is almost certain to come up.

"We believe that it cannot be business as usual for Russia in international institutions and in the international community," US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters.

(With inputs from agencies)

Despite suggestions by some members that Russia could be barred from the group, Beijing has backed President Vladimir Putin in planning to attend the G20 summit in Indonesia later this year.

Despite suggestions by some members that Russia could be barred from the group, Beijing has backed President Vladimir Putin in planning to attend the G20 summit in Indonesia later this year. As per reports US and its allies are considering whether Russia should remain part of the Group of Twenty major economies after its invasion of Ukraine. However, any move to exclude Russia would probably be vetoed by others, which could mean some countries skip G20 meetings instead. Also read | Russian spies in Poland?: Country expels 45 Russian diplomats for espionage The Russian ambassador to Indonesia, which currently holds the rotating G20 chair, said Putin intended to attend the G20 summit on Bali in November. "It will depend on many, many things, including the COVID situation, which is getting better. So far, his intention is... he wants to," Ambassador Lyudmila Vorobieva told a news conference. A question about the possible expulsion of Russia from the G20 led her to say that the forum was for discussing economic issues, not a crisis like Ukraine. "Of course expulsion of Russia from this kind of forum will not help these economic problems to be resolved. On the contrary, without Russia it would be difficult to do so." Also read | Amid Ukraine invasion, Russia intensifies crackdown on media The Chinese government, which is yet to condemn Russia's invasion on Wednesday called Russia an "important member" of the G20. According to Wang Wenbin, a spokesman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, the G20 is a group that needs to find answers to critical issues, such as economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. "No member has the right to remove another country as a member. The G20 should implement real multilateralism, strengthen unity and cooperation," he told a news briefing. The Indonesian foreign ministry declined to comment on calls for Russia to be excluded from the G20. In a statement on Tuesday, Poland said it had proposed replacing Russia within the G20 group to officials from the US Department of Commerce and that the suggestion had been met with a "positive response". Watch | Day 28 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: Russia reiterates 'Nuclear' threat Olaf Scholz, the German Chancellor, said G20 members would have to decide, but the matter was not a priority at the moment. "When it comes to the question of how to proceed with the WTO (World Trade Organization) and the G20, it is imperative to discuss this question with the countries that are involved and not to decide individually," Scholz said. "It is quite clear that we are busy with something else than coming together in such meetings. We urgently need a ceasefire." As US President Joe Biden meets with allies in Brussels on Thursday, the topic of Russia's participation in the G20 is almost certain to come up. "We believe that it cannot be business as usual for Russia in international institutions and in the international community," US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters. (With inputs from agencies)

As US, allies talk of expelling Russia from G20, China defends Moscow, calls it an 'important member'

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, a number of cases show how Moscow has intensified its crackdown on media and dissenters in the country.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin had signed into law harsh new legislation to nab those who are being charged with spreading "fake news" about the military.&nbsp;

Putin has already banned Facebook and Instagram after labelling them as "extremist" and media reports have suggested that, to silence dissent, the Russian authorities have blocked or shut down independent media in the country. &nbsp;

The Russian leader last week promised that he will purge Russia of the "scum and traitors" who are opposing the special "military operation" in Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sending-secretly-acquired-soviet-defence-equipment-to-ukraine-report-464796">US sending secretly acquired Soviet defence equipment to Ukraine: Report</a>

As per a report by Bloomberg published on Tuesday (March 22), Russian lawmakers have expanded legislation that punishes people with fines or imprisonment for publishing "fake news" about the military’s operations to cover all state agencies.&nbsp;

The move has been deemed as a major escalation of the crackdown on media coverage in Russia of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.&nbsp;

The report added that the State Duma lower house of parliament backed amendments criminalising the public dissemination of "knowingly false information about the activities of government bodies abroad in pursuing Russia's national interests".&nbsp;

A person charged with the offence can be slapped with a penalty ranging from fines of between 700,000 rubles ($6,800) and 5 million rubles to imprisonment of up to 15 years if the actions led to "grave consequences".&nbsp;

The Kremlin said on Wednesday (March 23) that it was vital to apply a new law.&nbsp;Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on the specific case of journalist Alexander Nevzorov, whom investigators late on Tuesday accused of deliberately spreading knowingly false information about the actions of the&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;military in Ukraine.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-oligarch-moved-wealth-before-sanctions-in-27-swiss-accounts-of-sister-464854">Russian oligarch moved wealth before sanctions in 27 Swiss accounts of sister</a>

Telegram gains popularity 

Meanwhile, Telegram has overtaken WhatsApp to become Russia's most popular messaging tool, the mobile operator Megafon said on Monday (March 21).&nbsp;

WhatsApp owner Meta Platforms Inc is embroiled in a Russian court case, with prosecutors seeking to label it an "extremist organisation", and authorities have actively promoted Telegram as they have banned other foreign platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Russia's military operation in Ukraine has added fuel to a simmering dispute between foreign digital platforms and Moscow.&nbsp;

Megafon, one of Russia's four main telecoms operators, said its analysis of mobile internet traffic showed that Telegram's share had jumped to 63% in the first two weeks of March from 48% in the first two weeks of February.&nbsp;

WhatsApp's share dropped to 32% from 48%, Megafon said. The average Telegram user consumed 101 MB of data a day, compared to 26 MB for WhatsApp.&nbsp;

Founded by Russian Pavel Durov, Telegram has long been a popular news platform in Russia, with almost all major media, government entities and public figures operating content channels.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russian court finds Alexei Navalny guilty of large scale frauds

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(With inputs from agencies)

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, a number of cases show how Moscow has intensified its crackdown on media and dissenters in the country. Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin had signed into law harsh new legislation to nab those who are being charged with spreading "fake news" about the military.

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, a number of cases show how Moscow has intensified its crackdown on media and dissenters in the country. Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin had signed into law harsh new legislation to nab those who are being charged with spreading "fake news" about the military. Putin has already banned Facebook and Instagram after labelling them as "extremist" and media reports have suggested that, to silence dissent, the Russian authorities have blocked or shut down independent media in the country. The Russian leader last week promised that he will purge Russia of the "scum and traitors" who are opposing the special "military operation" in Ukraine. ALSO READ | US sending secretly acquired Soviet defence equipment to Ukraine: Report As per a report by Bloomberg published on Tuesday (March 22), Russian lawmakers have expanded legislation that punishes people with fines or imprisonment for publishing "fake news" about the military’s operations to cover all state agencies. The move has been deemed as a major escalation of the crackdown on media coverage in Russia of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The report added that the State Duma lower house of parliament backed amendments criminalising the public dissemination of "knowingly false information about the activities of government bodies abroad in pursuing Russia's national interests". A person charged with the offence can be slapped with a penalty ranging from fines of between 700,000 rubles ($6,800) and 5 million rubles to imprisonment of up to 15 years if the actions led to "grave consequences". The Kremlin said on Wednesday (March 23) that it was vital to apply a new law. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on the specific case of journalist Alexander Nevzorov, whom investigators late on Tuesday accused of deliberately spreading knowingly false information about the actions of the Russian military in Ukraine. ALSO READ | Russian oligarch moved wealth before sanctions in 27 Swiss accounts of sister Telegram gains popularity Meanwhile, Telegram has overtaken WhatsApp to become Russia's most popular messaging tool, the mobile operator Megafon said on Monday (March 21). WhatsApp owner Meta Platforms Inc is embroiled in a Russian court case, with prosecutors seeking to label it an "extremist organisation", and authorities have actively promoted Telegram as they have banned other foreign platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Russia's military operation in Ukraine has added fuel to a simmering dispute between foreign digital platforms and Moscow. Megafon, one of Russia's four main telecoms operators, said its analysis of mobile internet traffic showed that Telegram's share had jumped to 63% in the first two weeks of March from 48% in the first two weeks of February. WhatsApp's share dropped to 32% from 48%, Megafon said. The average Telegram user consumed 101 MB of data a day, compared to 26 MB for WhatsApp. Founded by Russian Pavel Durov, Telegram has long been a popular news platform in Russia, with almost all major media, government entities and public figures operating content channels. WATCH | Russian court finds Alexei Navalny guilty of large scale frauds × (With inputs from agencies)

Imprisonment of up to 15 years? Amid Ukraine invasion, Russia intensifies crackdown on media

Almost 100,000 people are trapped among the ruins of the Ukrainian city of&nbsp;Mariupol, facing starvation, thirst and relentless Russian bombardment, President Volodymyr Zelensky said as the UN sharpened demands for Moscow to end its "absurd" and "unwinnable" war.

Tens of thousands of residents have already fled the besieged southern port city, bringing harrowing testimony of a "freezing hellscape riddled with dead bodies and destroyed buildings", according to Human Rights Watch.

In his latest video address Tuesday, Zelensky said more than 7,000 people had escaped in the last 24 hours alone, but one group travelling along an agreed humanitarian route west of the city were "simply captured by the occupiers."

He warned that many thousands more were unable to leave as the humanitarian situation worsens.

"Today, the city still has nearly 100,000 people in inhumane conditions. In a total siege. Without food, water, medication, under constant shelling and under constant bombing," he said, renewing calls for Russia to allow&nbsp;safe humanitarian corridors for civilians to escape.

Satellite images of&nbsp;Mariupol&nbsp;released by private company Maxar showed a charred landscape, with several buildings ablaze and smoke billowing from the city.

The Pentagon has said Russia is now pummelling&nbsp;Mariupol&nbsp;using artillery, long-range missiles and from naval ships deployed in the nearby Sea of Azov.

Local Ukrainian forces also report "heavy" ground fighting with Russian "infantry storming the city" after they rejected a Monday ultimatum to surrender.

UN relief agencies estimate there have been around 20,000 civilian casualties in the city, and perhaps 3,000 killed, but they stress "the actual figure remains unknown."

Mariupol's former mayor&nbsp;Sergiy Taruta vowed the city would never forgive Russia's siege.&nbsp;

"There will never be enough rage. There will never be enough revenge. There will never be enough retribution," he said in a Facebook post.&nbsp;

"For all the lives taken, the fates broken, for all the children killed, tears and suffering, each of the occupiers will never be at peace."

The almost month-long siege of&nbsp;Mariupol&nbsp;has brought ever-harsher international condemnation.

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Tuesday called for Russia to end its "absurd war."

"Even if&nbsp;Mariupol&nbsp;falls, Ukraine cannot be conquered city by city, street by street, house by house," he said.

"This war is unwinnable.&nbsp;Sooner or later, it will have to move from the battlefield to the peace table. That is inevitable."

Mariupol&nbsp;is a pivotal target in President Vladimir Putin's war -- providing a land bridge between Russian forces in Crimea to the southwest and Russian-controlled territory to the north and east.

'We live here'&nbsp;

As US President Joe Biden readied to visit allies in Europe, he warned that with Russia's offensive stalling, Putin was considering using chemical and biological weapons.&nbsp;

"Now Putin's back is against the wall," Biden said. "And the more his back is against the wall, the greater the severity of the tactics he may employ."

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has stated that Russia would use nuclear weapons if under "existential threat."&nbsp;

Biden is due to travel to Brussels on Thursday for a series of summits gathering NATO, EU and G7 leaders, before heading to Poland, which has received the bulk of more than 3.5 million Ukrainians fleeing war in their country.

White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said the United States would consult with allies about Russia's G20 membership.

"We believe that it cannot be business as usual for Russia in international institutions and in the international community," he&nbsp;told a press briefing Tuesday.

Washington has also not observed any Chinese arms shipments to Russia since Biden held a call with President Xi Jinping last week in which he raised concerns about Beijing's support for Moscow, Sullivan said.

"We have not seen... the provision of military equipment by China to Russia. But of course, this is something we are monitoring closely," he said.

On the ground, Russia's defence ministry has reported some advances in the southeast of Ukraine and boasted of strikes against "military infrastructure" across the country.

But Ukraine and its allies have claimed Russian forces are severely depleted, poorly supplied and still unable to carry out complex operations.

In the face of intense Ukrainian resistance, the Pentagon believes as much as 10 percent of Russian forces committed to Ukraine may have been knocked out of the war in just four weeks of fighting.

Ukraine's army command said it believes Russian troops now had enough ammunition, food and fuel to last just three days and there are reports of hundreds of Russian soldiers defecting.

For the first time, there are signs that Ukrainian forces are going on the offensive, retaking a town near Kyiv and attacking Russian forces in the south of the country.

In the southern city of Mykolaiv, one bulwark of the fierce fightback, residents said they were determined to stay and defend it despite incessant bombardment.

At the burial of soldier Igor Dundukov, 46, his brother Sergei wept as he kissed his sibling's swollen, blood-stained face.&nbsp;

"We supported his commitment to defending our homeland," Sergei told AFP. "This is our land. We live here. Where would we run to? We grew up here."

Amid the bloodshed, Moscow and Kyiv have begun holding peace negotiations remotely after in-person talks between delegations meeting on the border of Belarus and Ukraine made little progress.

Russia has said it wants "more substantial" discussion and Zelensky has said all issues would be on the table if Putin agreed to direct talks.

More sanctions

Since Russia launched its invasion on February 24, at least 117 children have been killed in the war, Ukraine's federal prosecutor said.

Some 548 schools have been damaged and 72 destroyed.

Russia has pushed on with its assaults, in the face of unprecedented Western sanctions that have led international companies to pull out of the country.

More sanctions against Russia and tightening of existing measures will be announced Thursday when Biden meets European allies in Brussels.

In the capital Kyiv, a 35-hour curfew came into effect from Monday evening after Russian strikes laid waste to the Retroville shopping complex, killing at least eight people.

Russia claimed the mall was being used to store rocket systems and ammunition.

With businesses closed and residents told to stay home, Kyiv was a ghost town Tuesday, with air sirens and the distant sound of explosions regularly punching through the silence.

Maxim Kostetskyi, 29, a lawyer, said residents were using the "pause" imposed by the lockdown to regroup.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine conflict: Putin plans to attend G20 Summit

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Almost 100,000 people are trapped among the ruins of the Ukrainian city of Mariupol, facing starvation, thirst and relentless Russian bombardment, President Volodymyr Zelensky said as the UN sharpened demands for Moscow to end its "absurd" and "unwinnable" war.

Almost 100,000 people are trapped among the ruins of the Ukrainian city of Mariupol, facing starvation, thirst and relentless Russian bombardment, President Volodymyr Zelensky said as the UN sharpened demands for Moscow to end its "absurd" and "unwinnable" war. Tens of thousands of residents have already fled the besieged southern port city, bringing harrowing testimony of a "freezing hellscape riddled with dead bodies and destroyed buildings", according to Human Rights Watch. In his latest video address Tuesday, Zelensky said more than 7,000 people had escaped in the last 24 hours alone, but one group travelling along an agreed humanitarian route west of the city were "simply captured by the occupiers." He warned that many thousands more were unable to leave as the humanitarian situation worsens. "Today, the city still has nearly 100,000 people in inhumane conditions. In a total siege. Without food, water, medication, under constant shelling and under constant bombing," he said, renewing calls for Russia to allow safe humanitarian corridors for civilians to escape. Satellite images of Mariupol released by private company Maxar showed a charred landscape, with several buildings ablaze and smoke billowing from the city. The Pentagon has said Russia is now pummelling Mariupol using artillery, long-range missiles and from naval ships deployed in the nearby Sea of Azov. Local Ukrainian forces also report "heavy" ground fighting with Russian "infantry storming the city" after they rejected a Monday ultimatum to surrender. UN relief agencies estimate there have been around 20,000 civilian casualties in the city, and perhaps 3,000 killed, but they stress "the actual figure remains unknown." Mariupol's former mayor Sergiy Taruta vowed the city would never forgive Russia's siege. "There will never be enough rage. There will never be enough revenge. There will never be enough retribution," he said in a Facebook post. "For all the lives taken, the fates broken, for all the children killed, tears and suffering, each of the occupiers will never be at peace." The almost month-long siege of Mariupol has brought ever-harsher international condemnation. United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Tuesday called for Russia to end its "absurd war." "Even if Mariupol falls, Ukraine cannot be conquered city by city, street by street, house by house," he said. "This war is unwinnable. Sooner or later, it will have to move from the battlefield to the peace table. That is inevitable." Mariupol is a pivotal target in President Vladimir Putin's war -- providing a land bridge between Russian forces in Crimea to the southwest and Russian-controlled territory to the north and east. 'We live here' As US President Joe Biden readied to visit allies in Europe, he warned that with Russia's offensive stalling, Putin was considering using chemical and biological weapons. "Now Putin's back is against the wall," Biden said. "And the more his back is against the wall, the greater the severity of the tactics he may employ." Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has stated that Russia would use nuclear weapons if under "existential threat." Biden is due to travel to Brussels on Thursday for a series of summits gathering NATO, EU and G7 leaders, before heading to Poland, which has received the bulk of more than 3.5 million Ukrainians fleeing war in their country. White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said the United States would consult with allies about Russia's G20 membership. "We believe that it cannot be business as usual for Russia in international institutions and in the international community," he told a press briefing Tuesday. Washington has also not observed any Chinese arms shipments to Russia since Biden held a call with President Xi Jinping last week in which he raised concerns about Beijing's support for Moscow, Sullivan said. "We have not seen... the provision of military equipment by China to Russia. But of course, this is something we are monitoring closely," he said. On the ground, Russia's defence ministry has reported some advances in the southeast of Ukraine and boasted of strikes against "military infrastructure" across the country. But Ukraine and its allies have claimed Russian forces are severely depleted, poorly supplied and still unable to carry out complex operations. In the face of intense Ukrainian resistance, the Pentagon believes as much as 10 percent of Russian forces committed to Ukraine may have been knocked out of the war in just four weeks of fighting. Ukraine's army command said it believes Russian troops now had enough ammunition, food and fuel to last just three days and there are reports of hundreds of Russian soldiers defecting. For the first time, there are signs that Ukrainian forces are going on the offensive, retaking a town near Kyiv and attacking Russian forces in the south of the country. In the southern city of Mykolaiv, one bulwark of the fierce fightback, residents said they were determined to stay and defend it despite incessant bombardment. At the burial of soldier Igor Dundukov, 46, his brother Sergei wept as he kissed his sibling's swollen, blood-stained face. "We supported his commitment to defending our homeland," Sergei told AFP. "This is our land. We live here. Where would we run to? We grew up here." Amid the bloodshed, Moscow and Kyiv have begun holding peace negotiations remotely after in-person talks between delegations meeting on the border of Belarus and Ukraine made little progress. Russia has said it wants "more substantial" discussion and Zelensky has said all issues would be on the table if Putin agreed to direct talks. More sanctions Since Russia launched its invasion on February 24, at least 117 children have been killed in the war, Ukraine's federal prosecutor said. Some 548 schools have been damaged and 72 destroyed. Russia has pushed on with its assaults, in the face of unprecedented Western sanctions that have led international companies to pull out of the country. More sanctions against Russia and tightening of existing measures will be announced Thursday when Biden meets European allies in Brussels. In the capital Kyiv, a 35-hour curfew came into effect from Monday evening after Russian strikes laid waste to the Retroville shopping complex, killing at least eight people. Russia claimed the mall was being used to store rocket systems and ammunition. With businesses closed and residents told to stay home, Kyiv was a ghost town Tuesday, with air sirens and the distant sound of explosions regularly punching through the silence. Maxim Kostetskyi, 29, a lawyer, said residents were using the "pause" imposed by the lockdown to regroup. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Putin plans to attend G20 Summit ×

Russia-Ukraine conflict: 'Hellscape' in Mariupol where 100,000 trapped

In pics: Multiple forest fires erupt near Chernobyl nuclear plant in Ukraine, say reports

Russia must adhere to the United Nations Charter, British Prime Minister&nbsp;Boris&nbsp;Johnson and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said during a call on Tuesday, according to a readout provided by Johnson's office.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has created a rift between India, which imports arms from Russia, and its Western allies, who have called on India to condemn Russian President Vladimir Putin in stronger terms.

"The pair agreed that Ukraine’s integrity and territorial sovereignty must be respected," a statement issued by Johnson's office following the call said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ukraine-conflict-creates-noodle-crisis-in-indonesia-464590" hreflang="en">Ukraine conflict creates 'noodle crisis' in Indonesia</a>

"Russia needed to adhere to the UN Charter, the leaders said, and both agreed that respect for international law was the only way to ensure global peace and prosperity."

Johnson also said both countries needed to intensify efforts to promote peace and de-escalation in the region.

The British readout of the call said Johnson told Modi Russia's actions were "deeply disturbing and disastrous for the world". It did not indicate Modi's response to this point.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/walls-dreams-and-genocide-zelenskyy-invokes-history-to-rally-support-464564">Walls, dreams and genocide: Zelenskyy invokes history to rally support</a>

US&nbsp;President Joe Biden has said only India among the Quad group of countries was "somewhat shaky" in acting against Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.

India and Britain are currently in talks over a trade deal, but UK trade minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan has said that India's refusal to condemn Russia's actions has left Britain "very disappointed."

"Prime minister recognises that India has an important role to play in its relationship with Putin and his regime, and certainly he urged him to continue to join... the condemnation of Putin," Johnson's spokesman told reporters.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine faces intense Russian assault, defies Russian demand to lay down arms

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India has also indicated it might take Russia up on an offer to buy crude oil at a discount.

Johnson's spokesman said Britain wanted all countries to move away from reliance on Russian oil and gas, but each country was coming from a different starting point.

"The prime minister believes the best way to broaden that coalition and to bring people with us is through is through diplomacy," he said.

Russia must adhere to the United Nations Charter, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said during a call on Tuesday, according to a readout provided by Johnson's office.

Russia must adhere to the United Nations Charter, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said during a call on Tuesday, according to a readout provided by Johnson's office. Russia's invasion of Ukraine has created a rift between India, which imports arms from Russia, and its Western allies, who have called on India to condemn Russian President Vladimir Putin in stronger terms. "The pair agreed that Ukraine’s integrity and territorial sovereignty must be respected," a statement issued by Johnson's office following the call said. Also read | Ukraine conflict creates 'noodle crisis' in Indonesia "Russia needed to adhere to the UN Charter, the leaders said, and both agreed that respect for international law was the only way to ensure global peace and prosperity." Johnson also said both countries needed to intensify efforts to promote peace and de-escalation in the region. The British readout of the call said Johnson told Modi Russia's actions were "deeply disturbing and disastrous for the world". It did not indicate Modi's response to this point. Also read | Walls, dreams and genocide: Zelenskyy invokes history to rally support US President Joe Biden has said only India among the Quad group of countries was "somewhat shaky" in acting against Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. India and Britain are currently in talks over a trade deal, but UK trade minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan has said that India's refusal to condemn Russia's actions has left Britain "very disappointed." "Prime minister recognises that India has an important role to play in its relationship with Putin and his regime, and certainly he urged him to continue to join... the condemnation of Putin," Johnson's spokesman told reporters. Watch | Ukraine faces intense Russian assault, defies Russian demand to lay down arms India has also indicated it might take Russia up on an offer to buy crude oil at a discount. Johnson's spokesman said Britain wanted all countries to move away from reliance on Russian oil and gas, but each country was coming from a different starting point. "The prime minister believes the best way to broaden that coalition and to bring people with us is through is through diplomacy," he said.

Russia must adhere to UN Charter, say UK and India

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