Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) on August 12 announced that it had foiled a Ukraine-led assassination attempt targeting a senior defence ministry official. The operative was a dual citizen of Russia and Ukraine, arrested on the M4 highway in Moscow.&nbsp;"During the course of operational investigative activities, an agent of the Ukrainian special services under the pseudonym ‘Raven’ was identified, recruited in the territory of a third country," read the statement by the Russian Federal Security Service.“He made a homemade explosive device and disguised it in a car purchased with enemy money.”Born in 1989 and known as “Voron” (“crow”), he allegedly planned to park the vehicle near the target's car. He had packed the car with explosives and would have detonated it as the target approached. According to the report, the alleged person was under duress; he was promised deferment from the military draft in exchange for carrying out the assassination."During the interrogation, he confessed to collaborating with the enemy's special services, during which he was offered the opportunity to return to his country of origin and, in exchange for committing a terrorist act, avoid mobilisation into the Ukrainian Armed Forces," read the statement by the Russian Federal Security Service.He was charged with state treason, illegal handling and trafficking of explosives. The individual remains in pre-trial detention and may end up in life imprisonment.The incident is the latest in a series of assassination attempts linked to the Ukraine-Russia conflict. In December 2024, Russia accused the SBU of orchestrating multiple assassination attempts using bombs disguised as portable chargers and a document folder to target the Defence Ministry officials, including the assassination of Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov. Similarly, in April 2024 Deputy General of the Main Operations Directorate was killed in a car explosion in Balashikha near Moscow. The FSB later detained an individual with Ukrainian links&nbsp;

FSB has reportedly foiled an attempt at the assassination of a top Russian Defence official using a Car filled with explosives, and the man is in custody waiting for his trial on the charges of high treason, illegal manufacture, storage, and transportation of explosives and explosive devices

Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) on August 12 announced that it had foiled a Ukraine-led assassination attempt targeting a senior defence ministry official. The operative was a dual citizen of Russia and Ukraine, arrested on the M4 highway in Moscow. "During the course of operational investigative activities, an agent of the Ukrainian special services under the pseudonym ‘Raven’ was identified, recruited in the territory of a third country," read the statement by the Russian Federal Security Service. “He made a homemade explosive device and disguised it in a car purchased with enemy money.” Born in 1989 and known as “Voron” (“crow”), he allegedly planned to park the vehicle near the target's car. He had packed the car with explosives and would have detonated it as the target approached. According to the report, the alleged person was under duress; he was promised deferment from the military draft in exchange for carrying out the assassination. "During the interrogation, he confessed to collaborating with the enemy's special services, during which he was offered the opportunity to return to his country of origin and, in exchange for committing a terrorist act, avoid mobilisation into the Ukrainian Armed Forces," read the statement by the Russian Federal Security Service. He was charged with state treason, illegal handling and trafficking of explosives. The individual remains in pre-trial detention and may end up in life imprisonment. The incident is the latest in a series of assassination attempts linked to the Ukraine-Russia conflict. In December 2024, Russia accused the SBU of orchestrating multiple assassination attempts using bombs disguised as portable chargers and a document folder to target the Defence Ministry officials, including the assassination of Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov. Similarly, in April 2024 Deputy General of the Main Operations Directorate was killed in a car explosion in Balashikha near Moscow. The FSB later detained an individual with Ukrainian links

FSB has reportedly foiled an attempt at the assassination of a top Russian Defence official using a Car filled with explosives, and the man is in custody waiting for his trial on the charges of high treason, illegal manufacture, storage, and transportation of explosives and explosive devices

Car with explosives recovered in M4: FSB arrests ‘Crow’ suspect of assassination plot of Russian Defence official

Ukraine and European powers have rejected Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal for a ceasefire in exchange for its eastern territories to Russia. Instead, the Ukrainian and EU officials have presented a counterproposal to the US ahead of the meeting between US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart on August 15 in Alaska. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stressed that Putin is trying to legalise the occupation of Kyiv’s territories.&nbsp;Earlier on August 6, Putin told the US envoy Steve Witkoff that Russia would agree to a complete ceasefire if Ukraine withdrew its forces from Donetsk Oblast and gave Moscow control of Donetsk, Luhansk Oblasts, and Crimea.&nbsp;Zelensky said on Saturday (Aug 9) that Ukraine “will not give Russia any rewards for what it has done.” He added, “Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier.” The Ukrainian leader’s remarks came after Trump suggested that a peace deal could include “some swapping of territories.”&nbsp;The Wall Street Journal, citing two European officials familiar with the matter, reported that Ukrainian and European officials have responded to Russia’s ceasefire proposal with a counterproposal of their own. It was presented to US Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Ukraine envoy Keith Kellogg and Steve Witkoff.&nbsp;The proposal reiterated that Ukraine and Europe should be a part of any negotiations held with Russia. It also demanded the implementation of a ceasefire before any further steps are taken.&nbsp;The recent development comes after the US president said on Friday (Aug 15) that he would meet Putin regardless of whether the Russian leader meets with Zelensky or not. The upcoming meeting is being viewed as a potential breakthrough in more than three years of war between Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;Responding to Trump’s announcement, Zelensky warned that any negotiations to end the war must include Kyiv. “Any decisions that are without Ukraine are at the same time decisions against peace. They will not bring anything. These are dead decisions. They will never work,” he said.&nbsp;European leaders, including France’s President Emmanuel Macron, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, and Finnish President Alexander Stubb, expressed support with Ukraine.&nbsp;“Ukraine’s future cannot be decided without the Ukrainians. Europeans will also necessarily be part of the solution, as their own security is at stake,” Macron said.&nbsp;<h2>‘The end of war must be fair’</h2>&nbsp;In a post on X, Zelensky on Sunday (Aug 10) said that the end of the war must be fair. He also expressed his gratitude to everyone who stands with Ukraine.&nbsp;“The end of the war must be fair, and I am grateful to everyone who stands with Ukraine and our people today for the sake of peace in Ukraine, which is defending the vital security interests of our European nations,” he said. “Ukraine values and fully supports the statement by President Macron, Prime Minister Meloni, Chancellor Merz, Prime Minister Tusk, Prime Minister Starmer, President Ursula von der Leyen, and President Stubb on peace for Ukraine.”&nbsp;

Earlier on August 6, Putin told the US envoy Steve Witkoff that Russia would agree to a complete ceasefire if Ukraine withdrew its forces from Donetsk Oblast and gave Moscow control of Donetsk, Luhansk Oblasts, and Crimea.

Ukraine and European powers have rejected Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal for a ceasefire in exchange for its eastern territories to Russia. Instead, the Ukrainian and EU officials have presented a counterproposal to the US ahead of the meeting between US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart on August 15 in Alaska. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stressed that Putin is trying to legalise the occupation of Kyiv’s territories. Earlier on August 6, Putin told the US envoy Steve Witkoff that Russia would agree to a complete ceasefire if Ukraine withdrew its forces from Donetsk Oblast and gave Moscow control of Donetsk, Luhansk Oblasts, and Crimea. Zelensky said on Saturday (Aug 9) that Ukraine “will not give Russia any rewards for what it has done.” He added, “Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier.” The Ukrainian leader’s remarks came after Trump suggested that a peace deal could include “some swapping of territories.” The Wall Street Journal, citing two European officials familiar with the matter, reported that Ukrainian and European officials have responded to Russia’s ceasefire proposal with a counterproposal of their own. It was presented to US Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Ukraine envoy Keith Kellogg and Steve Witkoff. The proposal reiterated that Ukraine and Europe should be a part of any negotiations held with Russia. It also demanded the implementation of a ceasefire before any further steps are taken. The recent development comes after the US president said on Friday (Aug 15) that he would meet Putin regardless of whether the Russian leader meets with Zelensky or not. The upcoming meeting is being viewed as a potential breakthrough in more than three years of war between Russia and Ukraine. Responding to Trump’s announcement, Zelensky warned that any negotiations to end the war must include Kyiv. “Any decisions that are without Ukraine are at the same time decisions against peace. They will not bring anything. These are dead decisions. They will never work,” he said. European leaders, including France’s President Emmanuel Macron, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, and Finnish President Alexander Stubb, expressed support with Ukraine. “Ukraine’s future cannot be decided without the Ukrainians. Europeans will also necessarily be part of the solution, as their own security is at stake,” Macron said. ‘The end of war must be fair’ In a post on X, Zelensky on Sunday (Aug 10) said that the end of the war must be fair. He also expressed his gratitude to everyone who stands with Ukraine. “The end of the war must be fair, and I am grateful to everyone who stands with Ukraine and our people today for the sake of peace in Ukraine, which is defending the vital security interests of our European nations,” he said. “Ukraine values and fully supports the statement by President Macron, Prime Minister Meloni, Chancellor Merz, Prime Minister Tusk, Prime Minister Starmer, President Ursula von der Leyen, and President Stubb on peace for Ukraine.”

Earlier on August 6, Putin told the US envoy Steve Witkoff that Russia would agree to a complete ceasefire if Ukraine withdrew its forces from Donetsk Oblast and gave Moscow control of Donetsk, Luhansk Oblasts, and Crimea.

Ukraine, Europe present counter ceasefire proposal, reject Putin’s land swap demand: Report

Ukraine once held the third-largest nuclear arsenal on earth. It once had nearly 5,900 nuclear warheads, it was more than Britain, France, and China combined, only fewer than the US and Russia. There were 176 intercontinental missiles in underground silos that could have struck anywhere on the globe. It also had 44 strategic bombers, each was capable of launching nuclear missions. There were 1900 strategic warheads for long-range strike and 4000 tactical ones for battlefield strikes.&nbsp;<h2>How did Ukraine have such a huge nuclear arsenal?</h2>On December 26, 1991, the Cold War ended with the fall of the USSR. Along with it ended the decade-long ideological war between the East and the West. The fall of the USSR can be attributed to many reasons, from the failed attempt by Mikhail Gorbachev to rejuvenate the Russian stagnating economy, the movement for independence in Soviet Republics, to the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster. All led to a chaotic dissolution of the Soviet Republic and the birth of 18 different states. Ukraine was one of those 18 states. It did not build any nuclear weapons. Soviets had stationed them on the Ukrainian soil to target the West, and Ukraine inherited them.<h2>Why did Ukraine give up its nuclear arsenal?</h2>Even though the missiles were stationed on Ukrainian soil, it did not have operational control over them. Most of the missiles were ageing and unstable. Ukraine lacked the money and expertise to maintain them, and the memories from the recent Chernobyl disaster were fresh. Moreover, Russia retained the launch codes and control systems for the long-range missiles; Ukraine could only use the tactical ones. The international community had started pressuring Ukraine to give up that arsenal. Bill Clinton, who was then the President of the United States, offered Ukraine $175 million to disarm. The deal was lucrative for a newly formed Ukraine.&nbsp;In 1994, Ukraine made the unprecedented decision to relinquish its nuclear weapons under the Budapest memorandum, based on security assurances from Russia, the United States and the United Kingdom. Ukraine agreed to transfer all of its nuclear warheads to Russia in exchange for sovereignty and territorial integrity. It acceded to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. &nbsp;Between 1994 and 1996, Ukraine completed its disarmament.<h2>How did the gamble turn out?</h2>Not even 20 years had passed, Russia invaded Ukraine and annexed Crimea in 2014, which was a violation of the Budapest memorandum. In 2022, it launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which is growing intensely as of now. However, during the signing of the Budapest memorandum, Russia was concerned about the possible expansion of NATO to its border. In 2008, at the Bucharest Summit, NATO member states agreed that Ukraine would become a member and following the annexation of Crimea, it became almost certain. NATO has been actively supporting Ukraine in defending against the current invasion by Russia. Since the beginning of 2025, the Russian intensity of attack has increased with a persistent barrage of missiles and drones. The scenario now carries a situation of war fatigue and a potential division within its leadership and with its allies&nbsp;

Ukraine once possessed the third-largest nuclear arsenal on earth, but it decided to disarm and sign the nuclear non-proliferation treaty. But with the recent invasion of Russia, it seemed Ukraine's gamble had somewhat backfired.

Ukraine once held the third-largest nuclear arsenal on earth. It once had nearly 5,900 nuclear warheads, it was more than Britain, France, and China combined, only fewer than the US and Russia. There were 176 intercontinental missiles in underground silos that could have struck anywhere on the globe. It also had 44 strategic bombers, each was capable of launching nuclear missions. There were 1900 strategic warheads for long-range strike and 4000 tactical ones for battlefield strikes. How did Ukraine have such a huge nuclear arsenal? On December 26, 1991, the Cold War ended with the fall of the USSR. Along with it ended the decade-long ideological war between the East and the West. The fall of the USSR can be attributed to many reasons, from the failed attempt by Mikhail Gorbachev to rejuvenate the Russian stagnating economy, the movement for independence in Soviet Republics, to the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster. All led to a chaotic dissolution of the Soviet Republic and the birth of 18 different states. Ukraine was one of those 18 states. It did not build any nuclear weapons. Soviets had stationed them on the Ukrainian soil to target the West, and Ukraine inherited them. Why did Ukraine give up its nuclear arsenal? Even though the missiles were stationed on Ukrainian soil, it did not have operational control over them. Most of the missiles were ageing and unstable. Ukraine lacked the money and expertise to maintain them, and the memories from the recent Chernobyl disaster were fresh. Moreover, Russia retained the launch codes and control systems for the long-range missiles; Ukraine could only use the tactical ones. The international community had started pressuring Ukraine to give up that arsenal. Bill Clinton, who was then the President of the United States, offered Ukraine $175 million to disarm. The deal was lucrative for a newly formed Ukraine. In 1994, Ukraine made the unprecedented decision to relinquish its nuclear weapons under the Budapest memorandum, based on security assurances from Russia, the United States and the United Kingdom. Ukraine agreed to transfer all of its nuclear warheads to Russia in exchange for sovereignty and territorial integrity. It acceded to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. Between 1994 and 1996, Ukraine completed its disarmament. How did the gamble turn out? Not even 20 years had passed, Russia invaded Ukraine and annexed Crimea in 2014, which was a violation of the Budapest memorandum. In 2022, it launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which is growing intensely as of now. However, during the signing of the Budapest memorandum, Russia was concerned about the possible expansion of NATO to its border. In 2008, at the Bucharest Summit, NATO member states agreed that Ukraine would become a member and following the annexation of Crimea, it became almost certain. NATO has been actively supporting Ukraine in defending against the current invasion by Russia. Since the beginning of 2025, the Russian intensity of attack has increased with a persistent barrage of missiles and drones. The scenario now carries a situation of war fatigue and a potential division within its leadership and with its allies

Ukraine once possessed the third-largest nuclear arsenal on earth, it decided to disarm and sign the nuclear non-proliferation treaty. But with the recent invasion of Russia, it seemed Ukraine's gamble had somewhat backfired.

Ukraine's nuclear gamble- Why did Ukraine give up the third largest nuclear arsenal?

Russian authorities have reportedly been involving children in the design and testing of drones for the country’s war efforts in Ukraine. This development began nationwide with video games competitions through which the most skilled participants are being recruited by defence companies, an investigator has found.&nbsp;The findings were revealed by the exiled Russian news outlet the Insider, highlighting the growing extent of the Russian government's alleged involvement in dragging the country's youth into the war against Ukraine, with the blurring of the lines between “patriotic” and militarised education that often turn out to be direct participation.&nbsp;“The kids are actively involved in modelling components of systems for various drones,” one of the teenagers told. “I know of several people at least who were modelling UAV [unmanned aerial vehicle] components for major enterprises,” the teenager added, as reported by the Guardian.&nbsp;Vladimir Putin has directed Russia to bolster drone production, which has become a significant part of the war for Russia against Ukraine. As drone battles from both ends constantly change with discoveries of new technologies, with evading electronic jamming systems, Russia is looking for the smartest tech prodigies with the help of youth.<h3>When does the initiative start?</h3>The initiative, launched in 2022, began with a video game called Berloga, in which “intelligent bears” have to defend themselves from bees, sometimes using drones, the investigation revealed. The game, which is played by hundreds of thousands of young Russians, can lead to extra credit in exams at the end of high school for those who succeed in the game.&nbsp;The top-performing participants advance to a higher-level context, including one name as "Big Challenges". This aims to identify talented school students for recruitment by Russian companies, many of whom face international sanctions due to their alleged involvement in the defence sector of the country.&nbsp;Three teenage finalists from the competition working on drone technology were interviewed, who described how the programme operates and revealed that while they were fully aware of the military application of certain projects, but were urged to hide it.&nbsp;“We were forbidden to say that it was needed for the war, and we invented civilian applications. It’s a children’s program … A project must always have a dual purpose, especially when you’re a school student. It’s an unwritten rule I’ve observed at every competition,” said one.&nbsp;Along with small drones, children are also involved in the production of larger drones. Children also revealed working inside military facilities: a 13-year-old explained how he had trained soldiers in drone operations inside a state facility in 2022.&nbsp;

The findings have revealed the growing extent of the alleged involvement of the Russian government in dragging the youth of the country into the war against Ukraine.

Russian authorities have reportedly been involving children in the design and testing of drones for the country’s war efforts in Ukraine. This development began nationwide with video games competitions through which the most skilled participants are being recruited by defence companies, an investigator has found. The findings were revealed by the exiled Russian news outlet the Insider, highlighting the growing extent of the Russian government's alleged involvement in dragging the country's youth into the war against Ukraine, with the blurring of the lines between “patriotic” and militarised education that often turn out to be direct participation. “The kids are actively involved in modelling components of systems for various drones,” one of the teenagers told. “I know of several people at least who were modelling UAV [unmanned aerial vehicle] components for major enterprises,” the teenager added, as reported by the Guardian. Vladimir Putin has directed Russia to bolster drone production, which has become a significant part of the war for Russia against Ukraine. As drone battles from both ends constantly change with discoveries of new technologies, with evading electronic jamming systems, Russia is looking for the smartest tech prodigies with the help of youth. When does the initiative start? The initiative, launched in 2022, began with a video game called Berloga, in which “intelligent bears” have to defend themselves from bees, sometimes using drones, the investigation revealed. The game, which is played by hundreds of thousands of young Russians, can lead to extra credit in exams at the end of high school for those who succeed in the game. The top-performing participants advance to a higher-level context, including one name as "Big Challenges". This aims to identify talented school students for recruitment by Russian companies, many of whom face international sanctions due to their alleged involvement in the defence sector of the country. Three teenage finalists from the competition working on drone technology were interviewed, who described how the programme operates and revealed that while they were fully aware of the military application of certain projects, but were urged to hide it. “We were forbidden to say that it was needed for the war, and we invented civilian applications. It’s a children’s program … A project must always have a dual purpose, especially when you’re a school student. It’s an unwritten rule I’ve observed at every competition,” said one. Along with small drones, children are also involved in the production of larger drones. Children also revealed working inside military facilities: a 13-year-old explained how he had trained soldiers in drone operations inside a state facility in 2022.

The findings have revealed the growing extent of the involvement of the Russian government in dragging the youth of the country into the war against Ukraine.

Kids building war machines? Russia defence firms recruiting children for drone design, reveals report

EU countries on Friday (July 18) signed off on a new package of sanctions on Russia over the war in Ukraine, including lowering a price cap on Moscow's oil exports. The 18th round of economic sanctions against Russia since its 2022 invasion was approved after Slovakia dropped a weeks-long block following talks with Brussels over separate plans to phase out Russian gas imports.&nbsp;"The EU just approved one of its strongest sanctions packages against Russia to date," EU Foreign Policy chief Kaja Kallas said. "Each sanction weakens Russia's ability to wage war. The message is clear: Europe will not back down in its support for Ukraine. The EU will keep raising the pressure until Russia ends its war."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-slams-nato-chief-s-threat-of-sanctions-over-trade-with-russia-warns-against-double-standards-1752756054422">India slams Nato chief’s threat of sanctions over trade with Russia; warns against ‘double standards’</a>&nbsp;Slovakia's Russia-friendly leader, Robert Fico, dropped his Opposition after getting what he called "guarantees" from Brussels over gas prices as the bloc pushes to cut off Russian imports by the end of 2027.&nbsp;France said the EU’s new round of sanctions on Russia agreed Friday over the war in Ukraine were without precedent and would force Moscow into a ceasefire. Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on X that “together with the United States we will force (Russian President) Vladimir Putin into a ceasefire”, adding the new sanctions — which include a lower price cap on Russian oil exports — were “unprecedented”.&nbsp;As part of the new sanctions designed to sap Russia's war chest, diplomats said the EU has agreed to lower its price cap on Russian oil exported to third countries around the world to 15% below market value.&nbsp;That comes despite EU allies failing to convince US President Donald Trump to go along with the plan.The cap is a G7 initiative aimed at limiting the amount of money Russia makes by exporting oil to countries across the globe such as China and India.&nbsp;The oil price cap, set at $60 by the G7 in 2022, is designed to limit the price Moscow can sell oil around the world by banning shipping firms and insurance companies dealing with Russia to export above that amount. &nbsp;Under the new EU scheme — which is expected to get the backing of G7 allies like Britain and Canada — the new level will start off at $47.6 and can be adjusted as oil prices change in the future. In addition, officials said the EU is blacklisting over 100 more vessels in the "shadow fleet" of ageing tankers used by Russia to circumvent oil export curbs.&nbsp;There are also measures to stop the defunct Baltic Sea gas pipelines Nord Stream 1 and 2 from being brought back online. Among other targets, sanctions will be placed on a Russian-owned oil refinery in India and two Chinese banks as the EU seeks to curb Moscow's ties with international partners.&nbsp;There is also an expanded transaction ban on dealings with Russian banks and more restrictions on the export of "dual-use" goods that could be used on the battlefield in Ukraine. The new sanctions will be formally adopted by EU ministers later on Friday.

EU countries sign off fresh sanctions on Russia. EU Foreign Policy chief Kaja Kallas said. “Each sanction weakens Russia's ability to wage war.”

EU countries on Friday (July 18) signed off on a new package of sanctions on Russia over the war in Ukraine, including lowering a price cap on Moscow's oil exports. The 18th round of economic sanctions against Russia since its 2022 invasion was approved after Slovakia dropped a weeks-long block following talks with Brussels over separate plans to phase out Russian gas imports. "The EU just approved one of its strongest sanctions packages against Russia to date," EU Foreign Policy chief Kaja Kallas said. "Each sanction weakens Russia's ability to wage war. The message is clear: Europe will not back down in its support for Ukraine. The EU will keep raising the pressure until Russia ends its war." Also read: India slams Nato chief’s threat of sanctions over trade with Russia; warns against ‘double standards’ Slovakia's Russia-friendly leader, Robert Fico, dropped his Opposition after getting what he called "guarantees" from Brussels over gas prices as the bloc pushes to cut off Russian imports by the end of 2027. France said the EU’s new round of sanctions on Russia agreed Friday over the war in Ukraine were without precedent and would force Moscow into a ceasefire. Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on X that “together with the United States we will force (Russian President) Vladimir Putin into a ceasefire”, adding the new sanctions — which include a lower price cap on Russian oil exports — were “unprecedented”. As part of the new sanctions designed to sap Russia's war chest, diplomats said the EU has agreed to lower its price cap on Russian oil exported to third countries around the world to 15% below market value. That comes despite EU allies failing to convince US President Donald Trump to go along with the plan. The cap is a G7 initiative aimed at limiting the amount of money Russia makes by exporting oil to countries across the globe such as China and India. The oil price cap, set at $60 by the G7 in 2022, is designed to limit the price Moscow can sell oil around the world by banning shipping firms and insurance companies dealing with Russia to export above that amount. Under the new EU scheme — which is expected to get the backing of G7 allies like Britain and Canada — the new level will start off at $47.6 and can be adjusted as oil prices change in the future. In addition, officials said the EU is blacklisting over 100 more vessels in the "shadow fleet" of ageing tankers used by Russia to circumvent oil export curbs. There are also measures to stop the defunct Baltic Sea gas pipelines Nord Stream 1 and 2 from being brought back online. Among other targets, sanctions will be placed on a Russian-owned oil refinery in India and two Chinese banks as the EU seeks to curb Moscow's ties with international partners. There is also an expanded transaction ban on dealings with Russian banks and more restrictions on the export of "dual-use" goods that could be used on the battlefield in Ukraine. The new sanctions will be formally adopted by EU ministers later on Friday.

EU countries sign off fresh sanctions on Russia. EU Foreign Policy chief Kaja Kallas said. “Each sanction weakens Russia's ability to wage war.”

'Each sanction weakens Russia...': EU signs off new sanctions on Moscow amid ongoing Ukraine war

&nbsp;As Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine in the past weeks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stressed that Ukraine might consider creating its own private military companies (PMCs). This happened in June after Russian President Vladimir Putin gave an ultimatum, demanding that Ukraine dissolve military formations.&nbsp;Zelensky, while speaking to media outlets, hinted at building his own military companies for equipment.&nbsp;"I will be thinking about it after these ultimatums," the Ukrainian president said in June. However, he did not specify what he meant by "private formations".&nbsp;Andrii Osadchuk, a lawmaker from the Holos party and first deputy head of the parliament's Law Enforcement Committee, said that he is "cautiously positive" about Zelensky's idea. But he called it "abstract" for now.&nbsp;"On the one hand, we'll have a human resource well-suited for this kind of work. And as a society, I believe we have an interest in offering these individuals meaningful employment," Osadchuk said.&nbsp;WATCH: Russia-Ukraine War: Trump warns of 'very severe tariffs' on Russiahttps://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-trump-warns-of-very-severe-tariffs-on-russia-1752671647372/embed<h2>Is it possible to create private military companies?</h2>According to Ukrainian law, it is not allowed to establish private military companies and prohibits the creation of paramilitary or armed formations. Despite the law, several organisations in Ukraine claim to be de facto PMCs and have been operating in a legal gray zone.&nbsp;"Today we are working in the interests of the (Ukrainian) state… One can deny the fact of our company's existence, but it does exist," Tetiana Kebkalo, a deputy director of the Kyiv Oblast-based Omega Consulting Group, told the Kyiv Independent.&nbsp;The Omega Consulting Group is a Ukrainian company that provides mission-critical solutions to government and commercial clients, specifically in areas of security, intelligence and military training.&nbsp;In the last seven years, three draft laws were aimed at legalising military consulting and international defence firms in Ukraine. The latest draft was introduced in April last year.&nbsp;However, these laws have been shown as efforts to build PMCs, but they don't really target that concern. A member of parliament's defence and intelligence committee told the outlets that Ukrainian lawmakers are ready to vote for a proper bill. While some lawmakers are cautious to do that.&nbsp;

Amid raging war with Russia, Zelensky has been eyeing to creating its own private military companies in Ukraine. A Ukrainian lawmaker said that he is "positive" about the Ukrainian president's idea, while also calling "abstract" for now. 

As Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine in the past weeks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stressed that Ukraine might consider creating its own private military companies (PMCs). This happened in June after Russian President Vladimir Putin gave an ultimatum, demanding that Ukraine dissolve military formations. Zelensky, while speaking to media outlets, hinted at building his own military companies for equipment. "I will be thinking about it after these ultimatums," the Ukrainian president said in June. However, he did not specify what he meant by "private formations". Andrii Osadchuk, a lawmaker from the Holos party and first deputy head of the parliament's Law Enforcement Committee, said that he is "cautiously positive" about Zelensky's idea. But he called it "abstract" for now. "On the one hand, we'll have a human resource well-suited for this kind of work. And as a society, I believe we have an interest in offering these individuals meaningful employment," Osadchuk said. WATCH: Russia-Ukraine War: Trump warns of 'very severe tariffs' on Russia https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-trump-warns-of-very-severe-tariffs-on-russia-1752671647372/embed Is it possible to create private military companies? According to Ukrainian law, it is not allowed to establish private military companies and prohibits the creation of paramilitary or armed formations. Despite the law, several organisations in Ukraine claim to be de facto PMCs and have been operating in a legal gray zone. "Today we are working in the interests of the (Ukrainian) state… One can deny the fact of our company's existence, but it does exist," Tetiana Kebkalo, a deputy director of the Kyiv Oblast-based Omega Consulting Group, told the Kyiv Independent. The Omega Consulting Group is a Ukrainian company that provides mission-critical solutions to government and commercial clients, specifically in areas of security, intelligence and military training. In the last seven years, three draft laws were aimed at legalising military consulting and international defence firms in Ukraine. The latest draft was introduced in April last year. However, these laws have been shown as efforts to build PMCs, but they don't really target that concern. A member of parliament's defence and intelligence committee told the outlets that Ukrainian lawmakers are ready to vote for a proper bill. While some lawmakers are cautious to do that.

Amid raging war with Russia, Zelensky has been eyeing to creating its own private military companies in Ukraine. A Ukrainian lawmaker said that he is "positive" about the Ukrainian president's idea, while also calling "abstract" for now.&nbsp;

Zelensky plans to build private military companies amid Russia's raging war - But is it really possible for Ukraine?

As the war between Russia and Ukraine intensified over three years, US President Donald Trump has been fluctuating his stance on whom to support. From calling Russian President Vladimir Putin a "genius" and an " attack on Ukraine "savvy in 2022, to calling him "crazy" in 2025, the bond between the two leaders has come a long way. The change in the Trump administration's stance not only impacted the Russia-Ukraine war, but also brought Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky closer after the White House spat.&nbsp;After Russia began the attacks in 2022, Trump for a very long time supported Russia in its war in Ukraine, while also pledging to end the war within 24 hours of becoming president.&nbsp;He used to bring this up in his presidential campaign, claiming that if he had been president, he would have ended the war in a day. Trump even praised Putin's moves as "genius" and "savvy", however, it did not last long.&nbsp;This changed when Trump, during his meeting with Zelensky in the Oval Office in February, heated up, as the two leaders engaged in a war of words. He even blamed Zelensky for the war during the meeting.&nbsp;But his stance kept changing, first against any war between Russia and Ukraine, then slamming Zelensky for the war, and now "frustrated" with Putin for continuing the attacks in Ukraine.<h2>Let's see how things changed in 3 years - Timeline</h2><h3>2023-2024</h3> While campaigning for the presidency, Trump blamed the Ukrainian president for the Russia-Ukraine war. He even refused to say whether he wanted Ukraine to win or not.&nbsp;According to a Washington Post report, privately, he even said that he could end the war by pressuring Ukraine to give up its territory. However, publicly, he vowed to end the war within 24 hours of becoming the president.<h3>Feb 18, 2025</h3> Trump lashed out at Zelensky, calling him a "dictator without elections", further triggering Ukrainians. The US president further claimed that Zelensky was responsible for Russia's war in Ukraine.&nbsp;This came after US and Russian officials held talks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, without involving Ukrainian officials. Trump defended the absence of Ukraine in the meeting, saying, “Today I heard, ‘Oh, we weren’t invited. Well, you’ve been there for three years. You should have ended it. You should never have started it. You could have made a deal.”<h3>Feb 28, 2025</h3> Zelensky visited the US to meet Trump on February 28. During their meeting at the White House, the conversation between the two leaders quickly turned into a war of words. Not just Trump, US Vice President JD Vance also joined in and blamed Zelensky for the war.&nbsp;Trump told Zelensky, "You’re right now not in a very good position. You’ve allowed yourself to be in a very bad position. You don’t have the cards right now. With us, you start having cards.”&nbsp;Moreover, Zelensky was about to close a rare earth minerals deal, which eventually got postponed due to the clash.<h3>March 30, 2025</h3> Things changed, and Trump's stance on the Russia-Ukraine war fluctuated. The US president said he was "angry" at Putin for questioning Zelenskyy’s legitimacy.&nbsp;Trump even threatened that he would consider more tariffs on Russian oil if he and the Russian president could not end “the bloodshed in Ukraine”. However, he also said that while he was “disappointed” with Putin, he also trusted him, adding, “I don’t think he’s going to go back on his word.”<h3>April 24, 2025</h3> The US president lashed out at Putin in a post on Truth Social, asking him to "STOP" the war in Ukraine, while criticising him for continuing the attacks.&nbsp;“I am not happy with the Russian strikes on KYIV,” Trump wrote. “Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP!”<h3>April 26, 2025</h3> Trump held a meeting with Zelensky at the Vatican on April 26, as the two leaders attended Pope Francis' funeral. It marked their first meeting after the Oval Office spat.&nbsp;Zelensky described the meeting as a "very symbolic meeting that has the potential to become historic, if we achieve joint results.” While Trump again slammed Putin for attacks in Ukraine, saying that the attacks made him “think that maybe he doesn’t want to stop the war, he’s just tapping me along, and has to be dealt with differently, through ‘Banking’ or ‘Secondary Sanctions?”<h3>April 30, 2025</h3> As Putin-Trump's bond took a turn, the US and Ukraine signed a mineral agreement, affirming a "long-term strategic alignment”. Through the deal, the US guaranteed "support for Ukraine’s security, prosperity, reconstruction and integration into global economic frameworks.”&nbsp;“This agreement signals clearly to Russia that the Trump Administration is committed to a peace process centered on a free, sovereign and prosperous Ukraine over the long term,” US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said after the deal was signed.<h3>May 19, 2025</h3> Trump held a phone call with Putin in May, as he appeared to agree to Russia's demand to postpone a ceasefire, which led to the continued war in Russia and Ukraine.<h3>May 25, 2025</h3> As Russia did not stop the war even after Trump made Putin understand, the US president threatened new sanctions after the Kremlin's large-scale attack on Ukraine. He further said that Putin has gone "absolutely crazy".&nbsp;“I’m not happy with what Putin is doing. He’s killing a lot of people,” Trump told reporters. “I don’t know what the hell happened to Putin,” he continued. “I’ve known him a long time.”&nbsp;In a post on Truth Social, Trump continued to bash the Russian president, writing, "Putin has gone absolutely CRAZY!” “Missiles and drones are being shot into Cities in Ukraine, for no reason whatsoever. I’ve always said that he wants ALL of Ukraine, not just a piece of it, and maybe that’s proving to be right, but if he does, it will lead to the downfall of Russia!”<h3>June 25, 2025</h3> In June, Trump and Zelensky met during the NATO Summit in The Hague. The US president described the meeting as "very nice". “Couldn’t have been nicer. I think he’d like to see an end to this," Trump said about Zelensky.He further added that he would “speak to Vladimir Putin and see if we can get it ended.”<h3>July 8, 2025</h3>Trump expressed disappointment with Putin, saying that he is killing a lot of people. He further said that Putin is nice all the time, but turns out to be meaningless.&nbsp;“I’m not happy with Putin. I can tell you that much right now, because he’s killing a lot of people,” Trump said. “You want to know the truth? He is very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless.”&nbsp;<h3>July 13, 2025</h3><h3>&nbsp;</h3>As the relations between Trump and Zelensky got better, the US president said that he would provide Ukraine with advanced weapons, including Patriot missiles, funded by the European Union.&nbsp;He even said that he was “disappointed” with Putin, telling reporters: “I thought he was somebody that meant what he said.”&nbsp;Trump even gave an ultimatum to Putin to end the war in 50 days or face high tariffs.&nbsp;

In the three years of Russia-Ukraine war, Trump has changed his stance on which side to support, multiple times. From claiming to end the war in 24 hours, to supporting Russia and then helping Kyiv with weapons to fight Russian attacks, Trump's relations with Putin changed drastically. 

As the war between Russia and Ukraine intensified over three years, US President Donald Trump has been fluctuating his stance on whom to support. From calling Russian President Vladimir Putin a "genius" and an " attack on Ukraine "savvy in 2022, to calling him "crazy" in 2025, the bond between the two leaders has come a long way. The change in the Trump administration's stance not only impacted the Russia-Ukraine war, but also brought Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky closer after the White House spat. After Russia began the attacks in 2022, Trump for a very long time supported Russia in its war in Ukraine, while also pledging to end the war within 24 hours of becoming president. He used to bring this up in his presidential campaign, claiming that if he had been president, he would have ended the war in a day. Trump even praised Putin's moves as "genius" and "savvy", however, it did not last long. This changed when Trump, during his meeting with Zelensky in the Oval Office in February, heated up, as the two leaders engaged in a war of words. He even blamed Zelensky for the war during the meeting. But his stance kept changing, first against any war between Russia and Ukraine, then slamming Zelensky for the war, and now "frustrated" with Putin for continuing the attacks in Ukraine. Let's see how things changed in 3 years - Timeline 2023-2024 While campaigning for the presidency, Trump blamed the Ukrainian president for the Russia-Ukraine war. He even refused to say whether he wanted Ukraine to win or not. According to a Washington Post report, privately, he even said that he could end the war by pressuring Ukraine to give up its territory. However, publicly, he vowed to end the war within 24 hours of becoming the president. Feb 18, 2025 Trump lashed out at Zelensky, calling him a "dictator without elections", further triggering Ukrainians. The US president further claimed that Zelensky was responsible for Russia's war in Ukraine. This came after US and Russian officials held talks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, without involving Ukrainian officials. Trump defended the absence of Ukraine in the meeting, saying, “Today I heard, ‘Oh, we weren’t invited. Well, you’ve been there for three years. You should have ended it. You should never have started it. You could have made a deal.” Feb 28, 2025 Zelensky visited the US to meet Trump on February 28. During their meeting at the White House, the conversation between the two leaders quickly turned into a war of words. Not just Trump, US Vice President JD Vance also joined in and blamed Zelensky for the war. Trump told Zelensky, "You’re right now not in a very good position. You’ve allowed yourself to be in a very bad position. You don’t have the cards right now. With us, you start having cards.” Moreover, Zelensky was about to close a rare earth minerals deal, which eventually got postponed due to the clash. March 30, 2025 Things changed, and Trump's stance on the Russia-Ukraine war fluctuated. The US president said he was "angry" at Putin for questioning Zelenskyy’s legitimacy. Trump even threatened that he would consider more tariffs on Russian oil if he and the Russian president could not end “the bloodshed in Ukraine”. However, he also said that while he was “disappointed” with Putin, he also trusted him, adding, “I don’t think he’s going to go back on his word.” April 24, 2025 The US president lashed out at Putin in a post on Truth Social, asking him to "STOP" the war in Ukraine, while criticising him for continuing the attacks. “I am not happy with the Russian strikes on KYIV,” Trump wrote. “Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP!” April 26, 2025 Trump held a meeting with Zelensky at the Vatican on April 26, as the two leaders attended Pope Francis' funeral. It marked their first meeting after the Oval Office spat. Zelensky described the meeting as a "very symbolic meeting that has the potential to become historic, if we achieve joint results.” While Trump again slammed Putin for attacks in Ukraine, saying that the attacks made him “think that maybe he doesn’t want to stop the war, he’s just tapping me along, and has to be dealt with differently, through ‘Banking’ or ‘Secondary Sanctions?” April 30, 2025 As Putin-Trump's bond took a turn, the US and Ukraine signed a mineral agreement, affirming a "long-term strategic alignment”. Through the deal, the US guaranteed "support for Ukraine’s security, prosperity, reconstruction and integration into global economic frameworks.” “This agreement signals clearly to Russia that the Trump Administration is committed to a peace process centered on a free, sovereign and prosperous Ukraine over the long term,” US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said after the deal was signed. May 19, 2025 Trump held a phone call with Putin in May, as he appeared to agree to Russia's demand to postpone a ceasefire, which led to the continued war in Russia and Ukraine. May 25, 2025 As Russia did not stop the war even after Trump made Putin understand, the US president threatened new sanctions after the Kremlin's large-scale attack on Ukraine. He further said that Putin has gone "absolutely crazy". “I’m not happy with what Putin is doing. He’s killing a lot of people,” Trump told reporters. “I don’t know what the hell happened to Putin,” he continued. “I’ve known him a long time.” In a post on Truth Social, Trump continued to bash the Russian president, writing, "Putin has gone absolutely CRAZY!” “Missiles and drones are being shot into Cities in Ukraine, for no reason whatsoever. I’ve always said that he wants ALL of Ukraine, not just a piece of it, and maybe that’s proving to be right, but if he does, it will lead to the downfall of Russia!” June 25, 2025 In June, Trump and Zelensky met during the NATO Summit in The Hague. The US president described the meeting as "very nice". “Couldn’t have been nicer. I think he’d like to see an end to this," Trump said about Zelensky. He further added that he would “speak to Vladimir Putin and see if we can get it ended.” July 8, 2025 Trump expressed disappointment with Putin, saying that he is killing a lot of people. He further said that Putin is nice all the time, but turns out to be meaningless. “I’m not happy with Putin. I can tell you that much right now, because he’s killing a lot of people,” Trump said. “You want to know the truth? He is very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless.” July 13, 2025 As the relations between Trump and Zelensky got better, the US president said that he would provide Ukraine with advanced weapons, including Patriot missiles, funded by the European Union. He even said that he was “disappointed” with Putin, telling reporters: “I thought he was somebody that meant what he said.” Trump even gave an ultimatum to Putin to end the war in 50 days or face high tariffs.

In the three years of Russia-Ukraine war, Trump has changed his stance on which side to support, multiple times. From claiming to end the war in 24 hours, to supporting Russia and then helping Kyiv with weapons to fight Russian attacks, Trump's relations with Putin changed drastically.&nbsp;

From calling Putin a 'genius' to 'crazy': How Trump's stance on Russia-Ukraine war turned in 3 years of intense fighting - TIMELINE

Drones are now the leading cause of death and injury between Russia and Ukraine. New threats mean new counter-measures, with some old, simple but effective tricks. Carrying large equipment by soldiers fighting in small squads will be counter-productive, hence Ukraine decided to introduce ‘Horshok’, the Drone killer or the Pea Bullet. The 5.56 mm round breaks into pellets midair, allowing soldiers to shoot down drones using their existing rifles without carrying extra weapons. With Horoshok rounds, an M4 or CZ Bren rifle becomes dual-purpose: one mag for enemy troops, another for hostile drones.&nbsp;Brave-1, Ukraine's government-backed Defence innovation grant program, published a video on June 30 showing the bullets at live-fire tests.

The concept behind the design is that it uses a segmented projectile, ie multiple sub-projectiles like pellets instead of a single solid bullet. The cartridge is compatible with all standard 5.56 platforms with one important caveat: that no suppressor or flash rider should be used, as it increases the chance of it getting stuck inside.With a rapid velocity of the sub-projectiles at 800 metres per second, the impact of the Horshok is effective against robust FPV drones at distances up to 50–60 metres. But there is a catch. A typical smoothbore cartridge might release 30–40 grams of shot. Horoshok delivers more than 4–5 pellets, so a single round is not enough to bring down a drone at range. At least 8-10 rounds are required in quick succession to bring down a drone at a range of 50–60 meters.Ukraine plans to equip every frontline soldier with at least one full mag of Horoshok rounds. Production is already scaling up, intending to standardise anti-drone firepower across its infantry.&nbsp;“The manufacturer has already codified this development (i.e., it has been codified by the Defence Ministry – Ed.). Our shared goal is for every infantryman to have a magazine of these rounds and be able to load them into their rifle in the event of an aerial threat,” said Brave 1 in a post&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/operation-sindoor-sparks-export-boom-hypersonic-missiles-stealth-jets-laser-weapons-to-give-boost-to-india-s-soft-power-1752646511111">Operation Sindoor sparks export boom: Hypersonic missiles, stealth jets &amp; laser weapons to give boost to India's soft power</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Shift in the drone capabilities and their deployment in the field has led both Russia and Ukraine to find new counter-measures. Ukraine has introduced Horoshok or the Pea bullet, a 5.56 mm round, that can shoot down Russian drones from the sky. 

Drones are now the leading cause of death and injury between Russia and Ukraine. New threats mean new counter-measures, with some old, simple but effective tricks. Carrying large equipment by soldiers fighting in small squads will be counter-productive, hence Ukraine decided to introduce ‘Horshok’, the Drone killer or the Pea Bullet. The 5.56 mm round breaks into pellets midair, allowing soldiers to shoot down drones using their existing rifles without carrying extra weapons. With Horoshok rounds, an M4 or CZ Bren rifle becomes dual-purpose: one mag for enemy troops, another for hostile drones. Brave-1, Ukraine's government-backed Defence innovation grant program, published a video on June 30 showing the bullets at live-fire tests.

Shift in the drone capabilities and their deployment in the field has led both Russia and Ukraine to find new counter-measures. Ukraine has introduced Horoshok or the Pea bullet, a 5.56 mm round, that can shoot down Russian drones from the sky.

Ukraine’s 5.56 mm ‘Pea Bullet’ to drop Russian drones from the sky at 50 metres

Ukraine may soon get the surface-to-surface Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS)—pronounced “attack ’ems”—that would give Kyiv the ability to strike deeper into Russia. Moreover, in the latest deal, Ukraine could get some weapons it requested several times but never got from the United States, like Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles, or JASSMs, (pronounced “jazz ’ems”), which have a longer range than the ATACMS and can be fired from F-16 fighter jets that European allies have given to Kyiv. The weapons delivery is highly crucial for Kyiv, as more Ukrainians were killed in the month of June than in any other single month so far in the war that has stretched to over three years as Moscow continues to pound Ukrainian territory with drones and missiles.&nbsp;Under the arms deal between US President Donald Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, NATO nations will buy American-made weapons, including Patriot air defence systems, missiles, and ammunition for Ukraine to help it defend itself from Russian attacks.&nbsp;However, neither Rutte nor Trump shared what missiles or ammunition might be sold under the deal. All the weapons will be immediately available for being shipped to Ukraine, said officials privy to the ongoing negotiations, which means they have just been built or are from existing military stockpiles, reported the New York Times.&nbsp;<h2>How will the arms deal help Ukraine?</h2>&nbsp;Ukraine’s officials say air defences, and Patriots in particular, are the single most important weapon system they need urgently.Ukraine has about eight Patriot systems, but two were being refurbished and not functioning until recently. Most Patriot systems are positioned around the capital, Kyiv, leaving other cities vulnerable to attacks.&nbsp;Both Trump and Rutte said Ukraine would receive additional US-made Patriot air defence systems as part of the deal, as Germany has offered to buy two systems and Norway a third, but it is not clear which countries are selling theirs.&nbsp;It is likely some arms will come from outside NATO’s 32-country alliance, as Trump did not commit to selling the United States’ supply of Patriots to Ukraine, and those countries would then be given priority to buy US-made replacements.One country is prepared to sell 17 of their Patriots, Trump said, because “they’re not going to need them” and he may be referring to 17 Patriot launchers that the system’s manufacturer, Raytheon, agreed to sell to Switzerland in 2020, along with other parts.&nbsp;Rutte said that at least eight NATO countries were ready to pay for the arms and praised Trump for helping Ukraine obtain “what it needs to have to maintain, to be able to defend itself, against Russia.”&nbsp;Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Monday after the announcement that he was working on “major” defence agreements with the Trump administration, but “it is not yet time to reveal the details publicly.”&nbsp;How much will the US earn?&nbsp;A single Patriot battery costs about $1 billion to build, and interceptor missiles cost about $3.7 million each. ATACMS costs at least $1 million or more per missile, while JASSMs sell for about $1.5 million each.&nbsp;“This is billions of dollars’ worth of military equipment that’s going to be purchased from the United States, going to NATO. And that’s going to be quickly distributed to the battlefield,” Trump said.&nbsp;Rutte said that the overall deal “will mean that Ukraine can get its hands on really massive numbers of military equipment.”

The United States has far more Patriot batteries than any other military—more than 60 of the estimated 180 worldwide, according to weapons trackers at the International Institute for Strategic Studies in London. Ukraine has about eight Patriot systems, but two of them were non-functional.

Ukraine may soon get the surface-to-surface Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS)—pronounced “attack ’ems”—that would give Kyiv the ability to strike deeper into Russia. Moreover, in the latest deal, Ukraine could get some weapons it requested several times but never got from the United States, like Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles, or JASSMs, (pronounced “jazz ’ems”), which have a longer range than the ATACMS and can be fired from F-16 fighter jets that European allies have given to Kyiv. The weapons delivery is highly crucial for Kyiv, as more Ukrainians were killed in the month of June than in any other single month so far in the war that has stretched to over three years as Moscow continues to pound Ukrainian territory with drones and missiles. Under the arms deal between US President Donald Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, NATO nations will buy American-made weapons, including Patriot air defence systems, missiles, and ammunition for Ukraine to help it defend itself from Russian attacks. However, neither Rutte nor Trump shared what missiles or ammunition might be sold under the deal. All the weapons will be immediately available for being shipped to Ukraine, said officials privy to the ongoing negotiations, which means they have just been built or are from existing military stockpiles, reported the New York Times. How will the arms deal help Ukraine? Ukraine’s officials say air defences, and Patriots in particular, are the single most important weapon system they need urgently. Ukraine has about eight Patriot systems, but two were being refurbished and not functioning until recently. Most Patriot systems are positioned around the capital, Kyiv, leaving other cities vulnerable to attacks. Both Trump and Rutte said Ukraine would receive additional US-made Patriot air defence systems as part of the deal, as Germany has offered to buy two systems and Norway a third, but it is not clear which countries are selling theirs. It is likely some arms will come from outside NATO’s 32-country alliance, as Trump did not commit to selling the United States’ supply of Patriots to Ukraine, and those countries would then be given priority to buy US-made replacements. One country is prepared to sell 17 of their Patriots, Trump said, because “they’re not going to need them” and he may be referring to 17 Patriot launchers that the system’s manufacturer, Raytheon, agreed to sell to Switzerland in 2020, along with other parts. Rutte said that at least eight NATO countries were ready to pay for the arms and praised Trump for helping Ukraine obtain “what it needs to have to maintain, to be able to defend itself, against Russia.” Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Monday after the announcement that he was working on “major” defence agreements with the Trump administration, but “it is not yet time to reveal the details publicly.” How much will the US earn? A single Patriot battery costs about $1 billion to build, and interceptor missiles cost about $3.7 million each. ATACMS costs at least $1 million or more per missile, while JASSMs sell for about $1.5 million each. “This is billions of dollars’ worth of military equipment that’s going to be purchased from the United States, going to NATO. And that’s going to be quickly distributed to the battlefield,” Trump said. Rutte said that the overall deal “will mean that Ukraine can get its hands on really massive numbers of military equipment.”

The United States has far more Patriot batteries than any other military—more than 60 of the estimated 180 worldwide, according to weapons trackers at the International Institute for Strategic Studies in London. Ukraine has about eight Patriot systems, but two of them were non-functional.

Will Ukraine get ATACMS, much-solicited higher version JASSMs for the first time in arms deal? What are they?

Even after US President Donald Trump's continuous warnings and ultimatum, Russian President Vladimir Putin is unfazed and intends to continue the war in Ukraine, according to three Kremlin sources, Reuters reported. Infact, Putin is not afraid of Trump's tariff threats or Western sanctions.Speaking on condition of anonymity, the Kremlin source said that Putin will continue the war until he gets what he wants, adding that his territorial demands may widen as Russian forces advance.The sources said that Russia's economy and its military is capable and strong enough to weather any additional Western measures, Reuters reported.The sources, familiar with top-level Kremlin thinking, said that the Russian president will not stop the war under pressure from the West, considering that Russia, which has survived the toughest sanctions, can also survive further economic hardship by the West, including Trump's tariff threats.Meanwhile, two of the sources said that Russia has the upper hand on the battlefield and its economy."Putin thinks no one has seriously engaged with him on the details of peace in Ukraine - including the Americans - so he will continue until he gets what he wants," one of the sources told Reuters.Trump and Putin have been holding phone calls, to discuss a ceasefire as the US president has been trying hard to end the long-standing war between Russia and Ukraine.Noting Putin and Trump's friendship, source further said, "Putin values the relationship with Trump and had good discussions with Witkoff, but the interests of Russia come above all else."Earlier on Monday, Trump expressed frustration with Putin's refusal to agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine. The US president announced a wave of weapons supplied to Ukraine, including Patriot missile systems. He also warned of imposing more sanctions on Russia unless Putin agrees to a ceasefire withing 50 days.&nbsp;

Putin is not planning to stop the war in Ukraine despite Trump's threats to impose sanctions on Moscow. Sources revealed that the Russian president will not stop the war under pressure from the West and will continue until he gets what he wants.

Even after US President Donald Trump's continuous warnings and ultimatum, Russian President Vladimir Putin is unfazed and intends to continue the war in Ukraine, according to three Kremlin sources, Reuters reported. Infact, Putin is not afraid of Trump's tariff threats or Western sanctions. Speaking on condition of anonymity, the Kremlin source said that Putin will continue the war until he gets what he wants, adding that his territorial demands may widen as Russian forces advance. The sources said that Russia's economy and its military is capable and strong enough to weather any additional Western measures, Reuters reported. The sources, familiar with top-level Kremlin thinking, said that the Russian president will not stop the war under pressure from the West, considering that Russia, which has survived the toughest sanctions, can also survive further economic hardship by the West, including Trump's tariff threats. Meanwhile, two of the sources said that Russia has the upper hand on the battlefield and its economy. "Putin thinks no one has seriously engaged with him on the details of peace in Ukraine - including the Americans - so he will continue until he gets what he wants," one of the sources told Reuters. Trump and Putin have been holding phone calls, to discuss a ceasefire as the US president has been trying hard to end the long-standing war between Russia and Ukraine. Noting Putin and Trump's friendship, source further said, "Putin values the relationship with Trump and had good discussions with Witkoff, but the interests of Russia come above all else." Earlier on Monday, Trump expressed frustration with Putin's refusal to agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine. The US president announced a wave of weapons supplied to Ukraine, including Patriot missile systems. He also warned of imposing more sanctions on Russia unless Putin agrees to a ceasefire withing 50 days.

Putin is not planning to stop the war in Ukraine despite Trump's threats to impose sanctions on Moscow. Sources revealed that the Russian president will not stop the war under pressure from the West and will continue until he gets what he wants.

Putin unfazed by Trump's ultimatum? Russian president to continue war until he gets what he wants, reveal Kremlin sources

Each unit can fire up to 1,000 rounds per minute and engage targets effectively within a 4-kilometre range. 

Each unit can fire up to 1,000 rounds per minute and engage targets effectively within a 4-kilometre range.&nbsp;

What is Skynex? Ukraine’s German-made drone killers firing 1,000 rounds a minute

The Russia’s Ministry of Defence has released a video on Thursday (July 11) capturing the moment a ballistic missile from the Iskander system destroyed a Ukrainian temporary deployment point in the Nikolaev region, located in southern Ukraine. According to the official statement, the strike targeted a temporary base of the Armed Forces of Ukraine near the settlement of Baratovka. The footage shows the precision-guided missile hitting the target with devastating accuracy. “All identified targets were destroyed,” the Russian defense ministry claimed.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Russian Iskander strike turns Ukrainian deployment site to dust A devastating Iskander missile strike erased a Ukrainian temporary deployment point in the Nikolaev region Sends shockwaves through the area <a href="https://t.co/IjskYZnAz1">pic.twitter.com/IjskYZnAz1</a>&mdash; RT (@RT_com) <a href="https://twitter.com/RT_com/status/1943245307157868855?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Russia escalates offensive on Ukraine</h2>Russian air strikes on Kyiv has intensified in recent weeks with some of the deadliest assaults of the war on the city of three million people. Russia fired its largest missile and drone attack on Ukraine in more than three years of war on Wednesday (July 9). The Ukrainian air force said that Russia had attacked with 728 drones and 13 missiles, adding that its air defense systems intercepted 711 drones and that at least seven missiles were destroyed. Earlier on July 4, Russia struck Kyiv with drones in an all-night attack, injuring at least 23 people, damaging railway infrastructure and setting buildings and cars on fire throughout the city, authorities in the Ukrainian capital said. Air raid alerts lasted more than eight hours as Russia launched a total of 539 drones and 11 missiles targeting the Ukrainian territory, Ukraine's Air Force said.<h2>Trump and Russia-Ukraine war</h2>The latest attack comes just after US President Donald Trump said he would increase weapons deliveries to Ukraine – reversing an earlier US policy announcement – and accused his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin of talking "bullshit" on Ukraine. &nbsp;Trump, who returned to power this year promising a swift end to the war that began in 2022, has taken a more conciliatory tone toward Moscow in a departure from predecessor Joe Biden's administration's staunch support for Kyiv. But initial rounds of talks between Russia and Ukraine have so far borne little fruit, with Moscow yet to accept an unconditional ceasefire proposed by Trump and accepted by Kyiv. However, Trump seems to be displeased by Putin and his attitude towards the war. After the recent phone call between the two leaders, Trump said that there was “no progress.” Days later, &nbsp;the US president promised to supply more defensive weapons to Ukraine - in what appeared to reverse a Pentagon decision earlier to stall some critical munitions supplies. When asked by a reporter what action he would take against Putin, Trump said: "I wouldn't tell you. We want to have a little surprise." Separately, Europe is working on a new sanctions package against Moscow." "We get a lot of bullshit thrown at us by Putin ... He's very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless," Trump said at a cabinet meeting. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Russia's Defence Ministry released a video showing an Iskander missile strike on a Ukrainian Navy base near Baratovka in southern Ukraine's Nikolaev region. The precision-guided attack reportedly destroyed all identified targets, according to an official statement

The Russia’s Ministry of Defence has released a video on Thursday (July 11) capturing the moment a ballistic missile from the Iskander system destroyed a Ukrainian temporary deployment point in the Nikolaev region, located in southern Ukraine. According to the official statement, the strike targeted a temporary base of the Armed Forces of Ukraine near the settlement of Baratovka. The footage shows the precision-guided missile hitting the target with devastating accuracy. “All identified targets were destroyed,” the Russian defense ministry claimed.

Russia's Defence Ministry released a video showing an Iskander missile strike on a Ukrainian temporary deployment point near Baratovka in southern Ukraine's Nikolaev region. The precision-guided attack reportedly destroyed all identified targets, according to an official statement

Russia uses Iskander missile to hit Ukraine, DESTROYS Ukrainian temporary deployment point - WATCH

After Russia began the invasion of Ukraine, the German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF) has been pitching the need for a Marshall Plan for Ukraine's recovery and rebuilding. During the Ukraine Recovery Conference on Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasised that there is a need post WWII style Marshall Plan for Ukraine's recovery.&nbsp;The Marshall Plan was one of the most successful US foreign policy initiatives introduced in the 20th century. But as Russia's aggression intensifies, is the plan needed in the 21st century? Kyiv has suffered major losses and damage as Russia continues to attack with hundreds of drones.&nbsp;The plan is needed to provide hope to the Ukrainian people and is crucial to ensure the full support of the American people.&nbsp;According to the German Marshall Fund of the United States, "There must be a transparent reform continuum from immediate humanitarian relief all the way to full economic recovery and modernisation."<h2>What is Marshall Plan-style?</h2>As several countries come together to support Ukraine amid its war with Russia, the Marshall Plan comes in the picture. The plan was introduced in the post-World War II period in 1947 after World War II ended in 1956 with Europe suffering and its cities shattered.&nbsp;US Secretary of State George C. Marshall called for a comprehensive program to rebuild Europe. In 1948, Congress passed the Economic Cooperation Act and approved funding that would rise to over $12 billion for the reconstruction and rebuilding of Western Europe. This brought massive investment into the region.&nbsp;Over the next four years, Congress provided $13.3 billion for the recovery of Europe. But, for the US, it provided markets for American goods, creating reliable trading partners.<h2>How does it look for Ukraine?</h2>Amid the escalating war in Ukraine, its recovery and reconstruction are important for the Ukrainian people. Russia's continuous and devastating attacks on Ukraine have raised concerns about the need for a post-World War II-style Marshall Plan.&nbsp;According to an earlier World Bank report, the full recovery of Ukraine would cost at least the equivalent of $540 billion. The Marshall Plan could cost about a third of that amount, the World Economic Forum reported.&nbsp;Thousands of schools and residential buildings have been damaged since the beginning of the war. Additionally, millions of hectares of protected areas in a nation home to roughly a third of Europe’s biodiversity have been impacted by shelling and war-related pollution.&nbsp;In 2022, Zelensky met the CEO of the world's biggest asset manager, saying that Ukraine needs to win both on the battlefield and also has to be an "attractive country" for investors.&nbsp;However, not the US, any future Marshall Plan for Ukraine will probably be European. The recovery of Ukraine will most likely involve Ukraine and its neighbouring countries reaching an agreement to restore its economic and military security.<h2>What did Zelensky say at Ukraine Recovery Conference?</h2>Earlier today, at the Ukraine Recovery Conference, Zelensky urged leaders to use frozen Russian assets to rebuild Ukraine, adding that "We should develop it together". He continues, that it's not just charity, but an investment.&nbsp;“Rebuilding Ukraine is not just about our country. It’s also about your countries, your companies, technology, your jobs, the way we rebuild our country can also modernise your infrastructure and industries.”&nbsp;The Ukrainian president added that Europe should "clearly agree that frozen Russian assets should go towards Ukraine’s recovery.”&nbsp;

As several countries come together to support Ukraine amid its war with Russia, the Marshall Plan comes in the picture. The plan was introduced in the post-World War II period in 1947 after World War II ended in 1956 with Europe suffering and its cities shattered.

After Russia began the invasion of Ukraine, the German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF) has been pitching the need for a Marshall Plan for Ukraine's recovery and rebuilding. During the Ukraine Recovery Conference on Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasised that there is a need post WWII style Marshall Plan for Ukraine's recovery. The Marshall Plan was one of the most successful US foreign policy initiatives introduced in the 20th century. But as Russia's aggression intensifies, is the plan needed in the 21st century? Kyiv has suffered major losses and damage as Russia continues to attack with hundreds of drones. The plan is needed to provide hope to the Ukrainian people and is crucial to ensure the full support of the American people. According to the German Marshall Fund of the United States, "There must be a transparent reform continuum from immediate humanitarian relief all the way to full economic recovery and modernisation." What is Marshall Plan-style? As several countries come together to support Ukraine amid its war with Russia, the Marshall Plan comes in the picture. The plan was introduced in the post-World War II period in 1947 after World War II ended in 1956 with Europe suffering and its cities shattered. US Secretary of State George C. Marshall called for a comprehensive program to rebuild Europe. In 1948, Congress passed the Economic Cooperation Act and approved funding that would rise to over $12 billion for the reconstruction and rebuilding of Western Europe. This brought massive investment into the region. Over the next four years, Congress provided $13.3 billion for the recovery of Europe. But, for the US, it provided markets for American goods, creating reliable trading partners. How does it look for Ukraine? Amid the escalating war in Ukraine, its recovery and reconstruction are important for the Ukrainian people. Russia's continuous and devastating attacks on Ukraine have raised concerns about the need for a post-World War II-style Marshall Plan. According to an earlier World Bank report, the full recovery of Ukraine would cost at least the equivalent of $540 billion. The Marshall Plan could cost about a third of that amount, the World Economic Forum reported. Thousands of schools and residential buildings have been damaged since the beginning of the war. Additionally, millions of hectares of protected areas in a nation home to roughly a third of Europe’s biodiversity have been impacted by shelling and war-related pollution. In 2022, Zelensky met the CEO of the world's biggest asset manager, saying that Ukraine needs to win both on the battlefield and also has to be an "attractive country" for investors. However, not the US, any future Marshall Plan for Ukraine will probably be European. The recovery of Ukraine will most likely involve Ukraine and its neighbouring countries reaching an agreement to restore its economic and military security. What did Zelensky say at Ukraine Recovery Conference? Earlier today, at the Ukraine Recovery Conference, Zelensky urged leaders to use frozen Russian assets to rebuild Ukraine, adding that "We should develop it together". He continues, that it's not just charity, but an investment. “Rebuilding Ukraine is not just about our country. It’s also about your countries, your companies, technology, your jobs, the way we rebuild our country can also modernise your infrastructure and industries.” The Ukrainian president added that Europe should "clearly agree that frozen Russian assets should go towards Ukraine’s recovery.”

As several countries come together to support Ukraine amid its war with Russia, the Marshall Plan comes in the picture. The plan was introduced in the post-World War II period in 1947 after World War II ended in 1956 with Europe suffering and its cities shattered.

What is a WWII-style Marshall Plan? Here's how it would look like for Ukraine's post-recovery amid Russia's raging war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (July 10) stressed that Ukraine needs a "Marshall plan-style" effort to guide its reconstruction, in light of escalating Russia's attack on Ukraine. During the Ukraine Recovery Conference, Zelensky told leaders that the daily Russian attacks amount to "terrorism".Beginning with thanking hosts and partners for supporting Ukraine, Zelensky further stressed that Ukrainians now face attacks by hundreds of drones, every single night, calling it "pure terrorism".“This is exactly what Putin wants, for our people to suffer, to flee Ukraine, and for homes, schools, for life itself to be destroyed everywhere, not just near the frontlines," he said.Zelensky urged leaders to use frozen Russian assets to rebuild Ukraine, adding that "We should develop it together". He continues, that it's not just charity, but investment.“Rebuilding Ukraine is not just about our country. It’s also about your countries, your companies, technology, your jobs, the way we rebuild our country can also modernise your infrastructure and industries.”The Ukrainian president added that Europe should "clearly agree that frozen Russian assets should go towards Ukraine’s recovery.”“Not only the income from these assets, but the assets themselves must be used and much more actively than they are now to help save lives," Zelensky said, while addressing the world leaders at the conference.<h2>'€10bn contracts to be signed'</h2>Zelensky pointed out that around 200 agreements are ready to be signed at the conference, which are worth €10 billion."Putin has only two real allies, terror and winter, and we must respond to both," he said, adding, "All of us must keep up the pressure on Russia.""All of us must keep working for defence so that we can bring a real ceasefire as soon as possible," the Ukrainian president said.<h2>'Bring abducted children back'</h2>The Ukrainian president called for bringing the abducted children back, while thanking partners for their help so far.“We must explore every possible way to bring our children back home to their families, to Ukraine, so they don’t forget who they are,” he said.Zelensky further lauded partner countries' efforts during their war with Russia. “We’ve done it in record time. No other country has switched from Soviet aircraft to F-16 and Mirages this quickly,” he said.'Increase investments when Russia increases attacks'Zelensky urged world leaders to increase their investments when Russia increases attacks, stressing the need to step up Ukraine's air defence systems."I urge all our partners: increase your investments when Russia increases its attacks," he said.He further called out Russia's claims that it was ready for talks and false accusations that Ukraine was not willing to engage, calling it "propaganda".Referring to last night's attacks on Ukraine, Zelensky said, “Now everyone sees that Putin has rejected every peace proposal and is escalating the violence."

Beginning with thanking hosts and partners for supporting Ukraine, Zelensky further stressed that Ukrainians now face attacks by hundreds of drones, every single night, calling it pure terrorism.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (July 10) stressed that Ukraine needs a "Marshall plan-style" effort to guide its reconstruction, in light of escalating Russia's attack on Ukraine. During the Ukraine Recovery Conference, Zelensky told leaders that the daily Russian attacks amount to "terrorism". Beginning with thanking hosts and partners for supporting Ukraine, Zelensky further stressed that Ukrainians now face attacks by hundreds of drones, every single night, calling it "pure terrorism". “This is exactly what Putin wants, for our people to suffer, to flee Ukraine, and for homes, schools, for life itself to be destroyed everywhere, not just near the frontlines," he said. Zelensky urged leaders to use frozen Russian assets to rebuild Ukraine, adding that "We should develop it together". He continues, that it's not just charity, but investment. “Rebuilding Ukraine is not just about our country. It’s also about your countries, your companies, technology, your jobs, the way we rebuild our country can also modernise your infrastructure and industries.” The Ukrainian president added that Europe should "clearly agree that frozen Russian assets should go towards Ukraine’s recovery.” “Not only the income from these assets, but the assets themselves must be used and much more actively than they are now to help save lives," Zelensky said, while addressing the world leaders at the conference. '€10bn contracts to be signed' Zelensky pointed out that around 200 agreements are ready to be signed at the conference, which are worth €10 billion. "Putin has only two real allies, terror and winter, and we must respond to both," he said, adding, "All of us must keep up the pressure on Russia." "All of us must keep working for defence so that we can bring a real ceasefire as soon as possible," the Ukrainian president said. 'Bring abducted children back' The Ukrainian president called for bringing the abducted children back, while thanking partners for their help so far. “We must explore every possible way to bring our children back home to their families, to Ukraine, so they don’t forget who they are,” he said. Zelensky further lauded partner countries' efforts during their war with Russia. “We’ve done it in record time. No other country has switched from Soviet aircraft to F-16 and Mirages this quickly,” he said. 'Increase investments when Russia increases attacks' Zelensky urged world leaders to increase their investments when Russia increases attacks, stressing the need to step up Ukraine's air defence systems. "I urge all our partners: increase your investments when Russia increases its attacks," he said. He further called out Russia's claims that it was ready for talks and false accusations that Ukraine was not willing to engage, calling it "propaganda". Referring to last night's attacks on Ukraine, Zelensky said, “Now everyone sees that Putin has rejected every peace proposal and is escalating the violence."

Beginning with thanking hosts and partners for supporting Ukraine, Zelensky further stressed that Ukrainians now face attacks by hundreds of drones, every single night, calling it "pure terrorism".

Post WWII style Marshall Plan for Ukraine? Zelensky urges leaders to use frozen Russian assets to rebuild Kyiv

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the sidelines of the ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, the US State Department and Russia's foreign ministry said. It would be the second in-person meeting between Rubio and Lavrov, and comes at a time when US President Donald Trump has grown increasingly frustrated with Russian President Vladimir Putin as the war in Ukraine drags on.&nbsp;The first meeting between the top diplomats took place in Saudi Arabia in February as part of the Trump administration's effort to re-establish bilateral relations and help negotiate an end to the war.&nbsp;"I can confirm: such a meeting is being worked out," TASS state news agency cited Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova as saying on Thursday.Trump, who returned to power this year promising a swift end to the war that began in 2022, had taken a more conciliatory tone toward Moscow in a departure from predecessor Joe Biden's staunch support for Kyiv.&nbsp;But on Tuesday, a day after Trump approved sending U.S. defensive weapons to Ukraine, he aimed unusually direct criticism at Putin, saying the Kremlin leader's statements on moving towards peace were "meaningless".&nbsp;Trump has also said he was considering supporting a bill that would impose steep sanctions on Russia, including 500% tariffs on nations that buy Russian oil, gas, uranium and other exports.&nbsp;When asked on Wednesday about Trump's criticism of Putin, the Kremlin said Moscow was "calm" regarding the criticism and that it would continue to try to fix a "broken" U.S.-Russia relationship.&nbsp;At a conference of Ukraine-friendly nations in Rome on Wednesday, Trump's Ukraine envoy Keith Kellogg met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in what Kyiv described as a "substantive" conversation.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-the-us-running-low-on-patriot-missiles-trump-vows-more-weapons-for-ukraine-even-as-pentagon-warns-of-shortages-1752074066141">Is US running low on Patriot missiles? Trump vows more weapons for Ukraine even as Pentagon warns of shortages</a>&nbsp;Russia targeted Ukraine with a record 728 drones early on Wednesday, the latest attack in a series of escalating air assaults in recent weeks that have involved hundreds of drones in addition to ballistic missiles, straining Ukrainian air defences at a perilous moment in the war.&nbsp;In his first visit to Asia since taking office, Rubio is in Kuala Lumpur to meet with the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations and with senior Malaysian government officials.&nbsp;The trip is part of an effort to renew U.S. focus on the Indo-Pacific and look beyond the conflicts in the Middle East and Europe that have consumed much of the Trump administration's attention, with Rubio balancing dual responsibilities as secretary of state and national security adviser.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the sidelines of the ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, the US State Department and Russia's foreign ministry said.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the sidelines of the ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, the US State Department and Russia's foreign ministry said. It would be the second in-person meeting between Rubio and Lavrov, and comes at a time when US President Donald Trump has grown increasingly frustrated with Russian President Vladimir Putin as the war in Ukraine drags on. The first meeting between the top diplomats took place in Saudi Arabia in February as part of the Trump administration's effort to re-establish bilateral relations and help negotiate an end to the war. "I can confirm: such a meeting is being worked out," TASS state news agency cited Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova as saying on Thursday. Trump, who returned to power this year promising a swift end to the war that began in 2022, had taken a more conciliatory tone toward Moscow in a departure from predecessor Joe Biden's staunch support for Kyiv. But on Tuesday, a day after Trump approved sending U.S. defensive weapons to Ukraine, he aimed unusually direct criticism at Putin, saying the Kremlin leader's statements on moving towards peace were "meaningless". Trump has also said he was considering supporting a bill that would impose steep sanctions on Russia, including 500% tariffs on nations that buy Russian oil, gas, uranium and other exports. When asked on Wednesday about Trump's criticism of Putin, the Kremlin said Moscow was "calm" regarding the criticism and that it would continue to try to fix a "broken" U.S.-Russia relationship. At a conference of Ukraine-friendly nations in Rome on Wednesday, Trump's Ukraine envoy Keith Kellogg met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in what Kyiv described as a "substantive" conversation. Also read: Is US running low on Patriot missiles? Trump vows more weapons for Ukraine even as Pentagon warns of shortages Russia targeted Ukraine with a record 728 drones early on Wednesday, the latest attack in a series of escalating air assaults in recent weeks that have involved hundreds of drones in addition to ballistic missiles, straining Ukrainian air defences at a perilous moment in the war. In his first visit to Asia since taking office, Rubio is in Kuala Lumpur to meet with the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations and with senior Malaysian government officials. The trip is part of an effort to renew U.S. focus on the Indo-Pacific and look beyond the conflicts in the Middle East and Europe that have consumed much of the Trump administration's attention, with Rubio balancing dual responsibilities as secretary of state and national security adviser.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the sidelines of the ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, the US State Department and Russia's foreign ministry said.

Rubio to meet Russia's Lavrov in Malaysia as Trump considers sending Patriot missiles to Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (July 9) met Pope Leo XIV at the papal residence of Castel Gandolfo near Rome. As the two met amid ongoing Russian attacks, Pope offered to hold negotiations between Russia and Ukraine in Vatican. The two discussed the ongoing conflict and the urgent need for a just and lasting peace.“During the cordial conversation, the importance of dialogue as the preferred means of ending hostilities was reaffirmed," the Vatican said in a statement."The Holy Father expressed his sorrow for the victims and renewed his prayers and closeness to the Ukrainian people, encouraging every effort aimed at the release of prisoners and the search for shared solutions," the statement added.It added that the Pope reiterated his willingness to welcome representatives of Russia and Ukraine to the Vatican for negotiations.<h2>Russia rejected the offer</h2>Earlier, Russia had rejected the offer from the Pope. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that it would not be appropriate for two Orthodox Christian countries to hold talks there.The Ukrainian president is currently on a visit to Rome, to attend the fourth Ukraine Recovery Conference, which will be held on Thursday and Friday.Zelensky, while speaking to reporters after meeting Pope, said that he thanked him for his efforts to help reunite children taken by Russia after the war began in 2022.Leo has been criticising Russia's war on Ukraine, calling it a "senseless war". “It is not easy to find words of consolation for the families who have lost loved ones in this senseless war,” he told the bishops who visited last week.<h2>Major attack on Ukraine</h2>Earlier this morning, Zelensky said that Russia attempted to strike 741 targets with 728 drones and 13 missiles. Zelensky said that the attack comes precisely at a time when efforts are being made to achieve peace in the region and establish a ceasefire, adding that Russia continues "to rebuff them all."He added that Russia’s continuing aggression is “yet another proof of the need for sanctions–biting sanctions against oil, which has been fueling Moscow’s war machine with money for over three years of the war.

Pope expressed his sorrow for the victims and renewed his prayers and closeness to the Ukrainian people, encouraging every effort aimed at the release of prisoners and the search for shared solutions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (July 9) met Pope Leo XIV at the papal residence of Castel Gandolfo near Rome. As the two met amid ongoing Russian attacks, Pope offered to hold negotiations between Russia and Ukraine in Vatican. The two discussed the ongoing conflict and the urgent need for a just and lasting peace. “During the cordial conversation, the importance of dialogue as the preferred means of ending hostilities was reaffirmed," the Vatican said in a statement. "The Holy Father expressed his sorrow for the victims and renewed his prayers and closeness to the Ukrainian people, encouraging every effort aimed at the release of prisoners and the search for shared solutions," the statement added. It added that the Pope reiterated his willingness to welcome representatives of Russia and Ukraine to the Vatican for negotiations. Russia rejected the offer Earlier, Russia had rejected the offer from the Pope. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that it would not be appropriate for two Orthodox Christian countries to hold talks there. The Ukrainian president is currently on a visit to Rome, to attend the fourth Ukraine Recovery Conference, which will be held on Thursday and Friday. Zelensky, while speaking to reporters after meeting Pope, said that he thanked him for his efforts to help reunite children taken by Russia after the war began in 2022. Leo has been criticising Russia's war on Ukraine, calling it a "senseless war". “It is not easy to find words of consolation for the families who have lost loved ones in this senseless war,” he told the bishops who visited last week. Major attack on Ukraine Earlier this morning, Zelensky said that Russia attempted to strike 741 targets with 728 drones and 13 missiles. Zelensky said that the attack comes precisely at a time when efforts are being made to achieve peace in the region and establish a ceasefire, adding that Russia continues "to rebuff them all." He added that Russia’s continuing aggression is “yet another proof of the need for sanctions–biting sanctions against oil, which has been fueling Moscow’s war machine with money for over three years of the war.

Pope expressed his sorrow for the victims and renewed his prayers and closeness to the Ukrainian people, encouraging every effort aimed at the release of prisoners and the search for shared solutions.

Pope to hold Russia-Ukraine peace talks? Vatican announces as Zelensky meets him amid Russia's biggest attack

Day after US President Donald Trump claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke "bullshit" about Ukraine in their phone calls, Kremlin on Wednesday (July 9) said that it is calm about it, adding that Trump has a harsh way of using phrases.When asked about Trump's comments about Russia and Putin, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, "We are fairly calm about it.""First of all, let's just say that Trump in general has quite a harsh rhetorical style in terms of the phrases he uses," Peskov told reporters.Despite Trump's sharp comments about Putin and on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Russia continued its strikes on Ukraine overnight, with the largest drone attack in three years.<h2>Another major attack on Ukraine</h2>&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Russia attempted to strike 741 targets with 728 drones and 13 missiles.Zelensky said that the attack comes precisely at a time when efforts are being made to achieve peace in the region and establish a ceasefire, adding that Russia continues "to rebuff them all."He added that Russia’s continuing aggression is “yet another proof of the need for sanctions–biting sanctions against oil, which has been fueling Moscow’s war machine with money for over three years of the war.“Our partners know how to apply pressure in a way that will force Russia to think about ending the war, not launching new strikes," the Ukrainian president said today.This comes after Trump on Tuesday criticised Russian leadership while discussing the Ukraine War with reporters during his Cabinet meeting at the White House.<h2>What did Trump say?</h2>The US president stressed that a lot of people are dying and the war between the two nations should end.“We get a lot of bullshit thrown at us by Putin… you want to know the truth. He’s very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless," Trump said.While hinting at imposing additional sanctions on Russia, Trump added, "Trump said, “I’m not happy with Putin, I can tell you that much right now, because he’s killing a lot of people."He also said that Putin is not treating human beings right, adding that the US will be sending some defensive weapons to Ukraine, so that they will be able to defend themselves.&nbsp;

Despite Trump's sharp comments about Putin and on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Russia continued its strikes on Ukraine overnight, with the largest drone attack in three years.

Day after US President Donald Trump claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke "bullshit" about Ukraine in their phone calls, Kremlin on Wednesday (July 9) said that it is calm about it, adding that Trump has a harsh way of using phrases. When asked about Trump's comments about Russia and Putin, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, "We are fairly calm about it." "First of all, let's just say that Trump in general has quite a harsh rhetorical style in terms of the phrases he uses," Peskov told reporters. Despite Trump's sharp comments about Putin and on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Russia continued its strikes on Ukraine overnight, with the largest drone attack in three years. Another major attack on Ukraine Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Russia attempted to strike 741 targets with 728 drones and 13 missiles. Zelensky said that the attack comes precisely at a time when efforts are being made to achieve peace in the region and establish a ceasefire, adding that Russia continues "to rebuff them all." He added that Russia’s continuing aggression is “yet another proof of the need for sanctions–biting sanctions against oil, which has been fueling Moscow’s war machine with money for over three years of the war. “Our partners know how to apply pressure in a way that will force Russia to think about ending the war, not launching new strikes," the Ukrainian president said today. This comes after Trump on Tuesday criticised Russian leadership while discussing the Ukraine War with reporters during his Cabinet meeting at the White House. What did Trump say? The US president stressed that a lot of people are dying and the war between the two nations should end. “We get a lot of bullshit thrown at us by Putin… you want to know the truth. He’s very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless," Trump said. While hinting at imposing additional sanctions on Russia, Trump added, "Trump said, “I’m not happy with Putin, I can tell you that much right now, because he’s killing a lot of people." He also said that Putin is not treating human beings right, adding that the US will be sending some defensive weapons to Ukraine, so that they will be able to defend themselves.

Despite Trump's sharp comments about Putin and on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Russia continued its strikes on Ukraine overnight, with the largest drone attack in three years.

'Trump uses harsh rhetorical style...': Kremlin reacts to US president's 'bull****' remark on Putin

Russia fired its largest missile and drone attack on Ukraine in more than three years of war, Kyiv said Wednesday (July 9). The strikes mainly targeted areas furthest from the front line. The attack comes just after US President Donald Trump said he would increase weapons deliveries to Ukraine – reversing an earlier US policy announcement – and accused his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin of talking "bullshit" on Ukraine. The Ukrainian air force said that Russia had attacked with 728 drones and 13 missiles, adding that its air defense systems intercepted 711 drones and that at least seven missiles were destroyed.The attacks were the latest in a series of Russian air strikes on Kyiv that have intensified in recent weeks and included some of the deadliest assaults of the war on the city of three million people.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier on July 4, Russia struck Kyiv with drones in an all-night attack, injuring at least 23 people, damaging railway infrastructure and setting buildings and cars on fire throughout the city, authorities in the Ukrainian capital said. Air raid alerts lasted more than eight hours as Russia launched a total of 539 drones and 11 missiles targeting the Ukrainian territory, Ukraine's Air Force said. Ukraine's state-owned railway Ukrzaliznytsia, the country's largest carrier, said on Telegram that the attack on Kyiv damaged railway infrastructure in the city, diverting a number of passenger trains and causing delays.&nbsp;Ukraine’s Air Force said it destroyed 718 of the drones. There were no immediate reports of fatalities. Ukraine launched 86 drones towards Russia overnight, according to the Russian Ministry of Defense. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the assault as a deliberate show of force from Moscow, underscoring Russia’s resistance to peace efforts. “This is a demonstrative attack, and it comes at a time when there have been so many attempts to achieve peace and ceasefire, but Russia rejects everything,” Zelensky wrote on Telegram. “Everyone who wants peace must act.”&nbsp;The primary target appeared to be the city of Lutsk in northwestern Ukraine, prompting Poland to scramble military aircraft in response to the spillover threat near its airspace. “Virtually everything was flying towards Lutsk,” said Ivan Rudnitskyi, head of the Volyn region's military administration.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Russia fired its largest missile and drone attack on Ukraine in more than three years of war, Kyiv said Wednesday (July 9). The strikes mainly targeted areas furthest from the front line.

Russia fired its largest missile and drone attack on Ukraine in more than three years of war, Kyiv said Wednesday (July 9). The strikes mainly targeted areas furthest from the front line. The attack comes just after US President Donald Trump said he would increase weapons deliveries to Ukraine – reversing an earlier US policy announcement – and accused his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin of talking "bullshit" on Ukraine. The Ukrainian air force said that Russia had attacked with 728 drones and 13 missiles, adding that its air defense systems intercepted 711 drones and that at least seven missiles were destroyed.The attacks were the latest in a series of Russian air strikes on Kyiv that have intensified in recent weeks and included some of the deadliest assaults of the war on the city of three million people. Earlier on July 4, Russia struck Kyiv with drones in an all-night attack, injuring at least 23 people, damaging railway infrastructure and setting buildings and cars on fire throughout the city, authorities in the Ukrainian capital said. Air raid alerts lasted more than eight hours as Russia launched a total of 539 drones and 11 missiles targeting the Ukrainian territory, Ukraine's Air Force said. Ukraine's state-owned railway Ukrzaliznytsia, the country's largest carrier, said on Telegram that the attack on Kyiv damaged railway infrastructure in the city, diverting a number of passenger trains and causing delays. Ukraine’s Air Force said it destroyed 718 of the drones. There were no immediate reports of fatalities. Ukraine launched 86 drones towards Russia overnight, according to the Russian Ministry of Defense. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the assault as a deliberate show of force from Moscow, underscoring Russia’s resistance to peace efforts. “This is a demonstrative attack, and it comes at a time when there have been so many attempts to achieve peace and ceasefire, but Russia rejects everything,” Zelensky wrote on Telegram. “Everyone who wants peace must act.” The primary target appeared to be the city of Lutsk in northwestern Ukraine, prompting Poland to scramble military aircraft in response to the spillover threat near its airspace. “Virtually everything was flying towards Lutsk,” said Ivan Rudnitskyi, head of the Volyn region's military administration.

Russia fired its largest missile and drone attack on Ukraine in more than three years of war, Kyiv said Wednesday (July 9). The strikes mainly targeted areas furthest from the front line.

728 drones and 13 missiles: Russia launches LARGEST drone attack on Ukraine since start of war

The decision, taken quietly in June by the Pentagon’s policy chief Elbridge Colby, also covers 155mm artillery shells, Stinger missiles.

The decision, taken quietly in June by the Pentagon’s policy chief Elbridge Colby, also covers 155mm artillery shells, Stinger missiles.

5 advanced US weapons now out of reach for Ukraine: A strategic advantage for Russia?

Luhansk Oblast spans over 26,000 square kilometres in eastern Ukraine and is part of the Donbas industrial region, rich in coal and heavy industry.

Luhansk Oblast spans over 26,000 square kilometres in eastern Ukraine and is part of the Donbas industrial region, rich in coal and heavy industry.

The battle for Luhansk: Why is this city historically significant for both Russia and Ukraine?

An eyewitness in Moscow captured the exact moment when massive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-launches-massive-drone-strike-at-moscow-as-zelensky-prepares-to-talk-truce-with-us-in-saudi-arabia-8841823">Ukrainian drone strike</a> hit different Russian regions on Tuesday (Mar 11). The viral video showed the blast in the Moscow region.&nbsp;
The Russian defence ministry said in a statement that it shot down 337 Ukrainian drones over several regions overnight, including 91 around Moscow. Another 126 drones were downed over the Kursk region bordering Ukraine, the ministry added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-donald-trump-administration-arrested-pro-palestine-mahmoud-khalil-everything-you-need-to-know-8841604">Why did Trump administration arrest pro-Palestine activist Mahmoud Khalil? What we know</a>
At least one person was reportedly killed in the strike, which seemed to be Ukraine's biggest drone attack of the war on the Russian capital. The strikes also sparked fires, suspending air and train transport in the region, authorities said.&nbsp;
"Today at 4 am a massive drone attack began on Moscow and the Moscow region. At the moment, one person is known to have died and three were injured," Moscow Region Governor Andrei Vorobyov said in a post on the Telegram messaging app.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/race-for-security-not-for-war-poland-prepares-citizens-for-russian-aggression-with-survival-guides-warns-males-of-compulsory-military-training-8841460">'Race for security, not for war': Poland prepares citizens for Russian aggression with survival guides</a>
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Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/made-in-india-defence-equipment-are-of-interest-to-us-armenian-foreign-minister-ararat-mirzoyan-8841958">Made-in-India defence equipment are of interest to us: Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan</a>
<h2>Zelensky in Saudi Arabia to talk peace</h2>
The attack on the Russian capital comes ahead of an expected meeting Tuesday between top US and Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia to discuss diplomatic ways to end the war. &nbsp;&nbsp;
Ukraine is set to present the United States with a plan for a partial ceasefire with Russia. Kyiv is hoping to restore support from its key benefactor, which under President Donald Trump has demanded concessions to end the three-year war. Trump has been pushing Ukraine for an agreement to end the war.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-meets-saudi-crown-prince-in-jeddah-rubio-says-no-military-solution-to-ukraine-conflict-8841369">Zelensky meets Saudi crown prince in Jeddah; Rubio says 'no military solution' to Ukraine conflict</a>
The talks in Saudi Arabia will be the most senior since a disastrous White House meeting last month, when Trump berated Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky for purported ingratitude.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

World | The Russian defence ministry reported shooting down Ukrainian drones, highlighting the intense aerial exchanges in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

An eyewitness in Moscow captured the exact moment when massive Ukrainian drone strike hit different Russian regions on Tuesday (Mar 11). The viral video showed the blast in the Moscow region. The Russian defence ministry said in a statement that it shot down 337 Ukrainian drones over several regions overnight, including 91 around Moscow. Another 126 drones were downed over the Kursk region bordering Ukraine, the ministry added. Also read: Why did Trump administration arrest pro-Palestine activist Mahmoud Khalil? What we know At least one person was reportedly killed in the strike, which seemed to be Ukraine's biggest drone attack of the war on the Russian capital. The strikes also sparked fires, suspending air and train transport in the region, authorities said. "Today at 4 am a massive drone attack began on Moscow and the Moscow region. At the moment, one person is known to have died and three were injured," Moscow Region Governor Andrei Vorobyov said in a post on the Telegram messaging app. Also read: 'Race for security, not for war': Poland prepares citizens for Russian aggression with survival guides Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Watch the video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by WION (@wionews) Also read: Made-in-India defence equipment are of interest to us: Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan Zelensky in Saudi Arabia to talk peace The attack on the Russian capital comes ahead of an expected meeting Tuesday between top US and Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia to discuss diplomatic ways to end the war. Ukraine is set to present the United States with a plan for a partial ceasefire with Russia. Kyiv is hoping to restore support from its key benefactor, which under President Donald Trump has demanded concessions to end the three-year war. Trump has been pushing Ukraine for an agreement to end the war. Also read: Zelensky meets Saudi crown prince in Jeddah; Rubio says 'no military solution' to Ukraine conflict The talks in Saudi Arabia will be the most senior since a disastrous White House meeting last month, when Trump berated Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky for purported ingratitude. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

WATCH: Video shows moment of blast in Moscow region as Ukraine launches largest-ever drone attack

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman early on Tuesday (Mar 11) ahead of the crucial talks between Ukrainian and US officials to discuss the Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is in Saudi Arabia, said there is "no military solution" to the conflict in Ukraine. US is hoping that diplomacy will deliver substantial progress towards ending Russia's war with Ukraine.&nbsp;
The Saudi state news agency SPA reported that during the meeting with Zelensky in Jeddah, the crown prince emphasised support for international efforts to resolve Ukraine's crisis and achieve peace.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-resume-military-aid-and-intelligence-support-to-ukraine-after-uk-pm-starmers-appeal-to-trump-8841299">US to resume military aid and intelligence support to Ukraine after UK PM Starmer's appeal to Trump</a>
After the meeting, Zelensky took to his X account and wrote that he is "grateful" for the crown prince's "wise perspective" on global affairs and support for Ukraine.&nbsp;
"It was especially important to hear words of confidence in Ukraine&rsquo;s future," the Ukrainian president wrote.&nbsp;
"We discussed all key issues on the agenda&mdash;both bilateral matters and cooperation with other partners. I acknowledged the Crown Prince&rsquo;s efforts in bringing true peace closer. Saudi Arabia provides a crucial platform for diplomacy, and we appreciate this," he wrote.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-us-trade-war-ontario-premier-doug-ford-slaps-25-per-cent-surcharge-on-us-electricity-new-canada-pm-mark-carney-us-president-donald-trumps-trade-war-8840877">&lsquo;Feeling terrible for American people&rsquo;: Ontario slaps 25% surcharge on US electricity amid Trump&rsquo;s trade war</a>
"The Ukrainian delegation remains in Jeddah to work with the U.S. team on Tuesday, March 11, and we hope for practical outcomes. Ukraine&rsquo;s position in these talks will be fully constructive," he further added.&nbsp;
"With the Crown Prince, we had a detailed discussion on the steps and conditions needed to end the war and secure a reliable and lasting peace."&nbsp;&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vances-cousin-who-fought-in-ukraine-slams-donald-trump-us-vice-president-for-ambushing-zelensky-vladimir-putin-8841069">&lsquo;Putin&rsquo;s useful idiots&rsquo;: JD Vance&rsquo;s cousin who fought in Ukraine slams Trump, VP for &lsquo;ambushing&rsquo; Zelensky</a>&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m83xv3f4-faax0heo-3a7qt4fl">
I had a good meeting with Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman. I am grateful for his wise perspective on global affairs and support for Ukraine. It was especially important to hear words of confidence in Ukraine&rsquo;s future. We discussed all key issues on the&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/BiBnaKViPl">pic.twitter.com/BiBnaKViPl</a>
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1899237896055615605?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>What does the US want?&nbsp;</h2>
Rubio was on his way to Jeddah when he said that there was a need to check Kyiv&rsquo;s readiness to make concessions in order to reach peace.&nbsp;
"The most important thing that we have to leave here with is a strong sense that Ukraine is prepared to do difficult things, like the Russians are going to have to do difficult things, to end this conflict or at least pause it in some way, shape or form," he told reporters on the plane.&nbsp;
"I think both sides need to come to an understanding that there's no military solution to this situation. The Russians can't conquer all of Ukraine, and obviously it'll be very difficult for Ukraine in any reasonable time period to sort of force the Russians back all the way to where they were in 2014," he added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-pro-palestinian-campus-protester-first-arrest-of-many-to-come-8841026">Trump says pro-Palestinian campus protester &lsquo;first arrest of many to come&rsquo;</a>
<h2>Russia-Ukraine war latest&nbsp;</h2>
A Ukrainian strike on a village store in the Russian region of Kursk on Monday killed three people and wounded nine, the regional governor said.&nbsp;Ukrainian forces have occupied a part of Kursk region since last August.&nbsp;
"The Ukrainian armed force hit the Dobrynia shop in the village of Belaya in Belovski district. This happened at a time when people were grocery shopping after work," regional governor Alexander Khinshtein said on Telegram.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

World | US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stresses there is no military solution to the Ukraine conflict, urging diplomatic efforts for substantial progress towards peace.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman early on Tuesday (Mar 11) ahead of the crucial talks between Ukrainian and US officials to discuss the Russia-Ukraine war. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is in Saudi Arabia, said there is "no military solution" to the conflict in Ukraine. US is hoping that diplomacy will deliver substantial progress towards ending Russia's war with Ukraine. The Saudi state news agency SPA reported that during the meeting with Zelensky in Jeddah, the crown prince emphasised support for international efforts to resolve Ukraine's crisis and achieve peace. Also read: US to resume military aid and intelligence support to Ukraine after UK PM Starmer's appeal to Trump After the meeting, Zelensky took to his X account and wrote that he is "grateful" for the crown prince's "wise perspective" on global affairs and support for Ukraine. "It was especially important to hear words of confidence in Ukraine’s future," the Ukrainian president wrote. "We discussed all key issues on the agenda—both bilateral matters and cooperation with other partners. I acknowledged the Crown Prince’s efforts in bringing true peace closer. Saudi Arabia provides a crucial platform for diplomacy, and we appreciate this," he wrote. Also read: ‘Feeling terrible for American people’: Ontario slaps 25% surcharge on US electricity amid Trump’s trade war "The Ukrainian delegation remains in Jeddah to work with the U.S. team on Tuesday, March 11, and we hope for practical outcomes. Ukraine’s position in these talks will be fully constructive," he further added. "With the Crown Prince, we had a detailed discussion on the steps and conditions needed to end the war and secure a reliable and lasting peace." Also read: ‘Putin’s useful idiots’: JD Vance’s cousin who fought in Ukraine slams Trump, VP for ‘ambushing’ Zelensky I had a good meeting with Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman. I am grateful for his wise perspective on global affairs and support for Ukraine. It was especially important to hear words of confidence in Ukraine’s future. We discussed all key issues on the… pic.twitter.com/BiBnaKViPl — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) March 10, 2025 What does the US want? Rubio was on his way to Jeddah when he said that there was a need to check Kyiv’s readiness to make concessions in order to reach peace. "The most important thing that we have to leave here with is a strong sense that Ukraine is prepared to do difficult things, like the Russians are going to have to do difficult things, to end this conflict or at least pause it in some way, shape or form," he told reporters on the plane. "I think both sides need to come to an understanding that there's no military solution to this situation. The Russians can't conquer all of Ukraine, and obviously it'll be very difficult for Ukraine in any reasonable time period to sort of force the Russians back all the way to where they were in 2014," he added. Also read: Trump says pro-Palestinian campus protester ‘first arrest of many to come’ Russia-Ukraine war latest A Ukrainian strike on a village store in the Russian region of Kursk on Monday killed three people and wounded nine, the regional governor said. Ukrainian forces have occupied a part of Kursk region since last August. "The Ukrainian armed force hit the Dobrynia shop in the village of Belaya in Belovski district. This happened at a time when people were grocery shopping after work," regional governor Alexander Khinshtein said on Telegram. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

Zelensky meets Saudi crown prince in Jeddah; Rubio says 'no military solution' to Ukraine conflict

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 27) insisted that Russian leader Vladimir Putin would honour a peace deal for Ukraine, suggesting the US having a multibillion dollar stake in Kyiv's rare earths sector would serve as a deterrent against future Russian aggression.
During a high-profile meeting at the White House with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the US president expressed confidence that Putin would not violate any agreement, which could involve restoring as much as possible the Ukrainian territory seized during the three-year conflict.
However, while Trump spoke optimistically about peace prospects, he stopped short of committing to deploying US troops to support a European-led peacekeeping force, though he assured that Washington would "always" support Britain's military if necessary.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/keir-starmers-white-house-visit-us-president-donald-trump-greets-uk-pm-says-we-can-we-will-on-ukraine-peace-8763175">Keir Starmer&rsquo;s White House visit: Trump greets UK PM, says &lsquo;We can, we will&rsquo; on Ukraine peace</a>
<h2>Starmer pushes Trump for security assurances for Ukraine</h2>
The meeting took place amid heightened European security concerns, with Trump's administration forging closer ties with Russia, disrupting the long-standing transatlantic consensus on Ukraine.&nbsp;
Just 24 hours ahead of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to the US, Starmer pressed Trump on security assurances for Kyiv.
Following their discussions, Starmer stated: "We've discussed a plan today to reach a peace that is tough and fair. That Ukraine will help shape. That's backed by strength to stop Putin coming back for more".
He also stated that the UK was ready to "put boots on the ground and planes in the air to support a deal."
"Working together with our allies, because that is the only way that peace will last," he added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-calls-trumps-suggestion-to-cut-defence-budget-in-half-a-good-proposal-8754915">Putin calls Trump's suggestion to cut defence budget in half a 'good proposal'</a>
<h2>Trump on Putin</h2>
Trump downplayed concerns about future Russian aggression, maintaining that securing an agreement was the hard part while sustaining peace would be "the easy part." Rather than offering firm military commitments, he argued that US investments in Ukraine's rare earths sector would act as a sufficient deterrent.
"We'll be working there. We'll have a lot of people working and so, in that sense, it's very good. It's a backstop, you could say," Trump said. "I don't think anybody's going to play around if we're there with a lot of workers and having to do with rare earths and other things which we need for our country."
On the prospect of Russia returning occupied territory, Trump remained vague: "We will certainly try and get as much as we can back."
Disagreeing with Starmer's assessment that security guarantees were necessary to prevent future invasions, Trump asserted: "I don't think so. I think when we have a deal, it's going to be the deal."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-deflects-after-calling-ukraines-zelensky-a-dictator-uk-pm-keir-starmer-8763318">'Did I say that? I can't believe...': Trump disowns remark calling Zelensky a 'dictator'</a>
Referring to his relations with the Russian President, Trump added: "I think he'll keep his word. I've known him for a long time now, and I think he will. I don't believe he's going to violate his word. I don't think he'll be back when we make a deal. I think the deal is going to hold now."
Trump reaffirmed his commitment to NATO's collective defence principle. "I support it. I don't think we're gonna have any reason for it. I think we're going to have a very successful peace."
(With inputs from agencies)

World news | Discover the dynamics of Trump's meeting with UK PM Starmer, focusing on European security concerns and the potential for US military involvement in Ukraine.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 27) insisted that Russian leader Vladimir Putin would honour a peace deal for Ukraine, suggesting the US having a multibillion dollar stake in Kyiv's rare earths sector would serve as a deterrent against future Russian aggression. During a high-profile meeting at the White House with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the US president expressed confidence that Putin would not violate any agreement, which could involve restoring as much as possible the Ukrainian territory seized during the three-year conflict. However, while Trump spoke optimistically about peace prospects, he stopped short of committing to deploying US troops to support a European-led peacekeeping force, though he assured that Washington would "always" support Britain's military if necessary. Also read | Keir Starmer’s White House visit: Trump greets UK PM, says ‘We can, we will’ on Ukraine peace Starmer pushes Trump for security assurances for Ukraine The meeting took place amid heightened European security concerns, with Trump's administration forging closer ties with Russia, disrupting the long-standing transatlantic consensus on Ukraine. Just 24 hours ahead of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to the US, Starmer pressed Trump on security assurances for Kyiv. Following their discussions, Starmer stated: "We've discussed a plan today to reach a peace that is tough and fair. That Ukraine will help shape. That's backed by strength to stop Putin coming back for more". He also stated that the UK was ready to "put boots on the ground and planes in the air to support a deal." "Working together with our allies, because that is the only way that peace will last," he added. Also read | Putin calls Trump's suggestion to cut defence budget in half a 'good proposal' Trump on Putin Trump downplayed concerns about future Russian aggression, maintaining that securing an agreement was the hard part while sustaining peace would be "the easy part." Rather than offering firm military commitments, he argued that US investments in Ukraine's rare earths sector would act as a sufficient deterrent. "We'll be working there. We'll have a lot of people working and so, in that sense, it's very good. It's a backstop, you could say," Trump said. "I don't think anybody's going to play around if we're there with a lot of workers and having to do with rare earths and other things which we need for our country." On the prospect of Russia returning occupied territory, Trump remained vague: "We will certainly try and get as much as we can back." Disagreeing with Starmer's assessment that security guarantees were necessary to prevent future invasions, Trump asserted: "I don't think so. I think when we have a deal, it's going to be the deal." Also read | 'Did I say that? I can't believe...': Trump disowns remark calling Zelensky a 'dictator' Referring to his relations with the Russian President, Trump added: "I think he'll keep his word. I've known him for a long time now, and I think he will. I don't believe he's going to violate his word. I don't think he'll be back when we make a deal. I think the deal is going to hold now." Trump reaffirmed his commitment to NATO's collective defence principle. "I support it. I don't think we're gonna have any reason for it. I think we're going to have a very successful peace." (With inputs from agencies)

Trump insists Putin will honour peace deal with Ukraine, refuses to commit to US forces on ground

Seoul, South Korea
More than 1,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded in Russia's war with Ukraine, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said on Monday.
The new figure follows a report by Seoul's spy agency to MPs last week, which said at least 100 North Korean soldiers had been killed since entering combat in December.
Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to reinforce the Russian military, including to the Kursk border region, where Ukrainian forces seized territory earlier this year.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-russia-captures-australian-man-fighting-for-ukraine-canberra-opens-probe-786121">Video: Russia captures ‘Australian’ man fighting for Ukraine, Canberra opens probe</a>
"Through various sources of information and intelligence, we assess that North Korean troops who have recently engaged in combat with Ukrainian forces have suffered around 1,100 casualties," the JCS said in a statement.
"We are particularly interested in the possibility of additional deployments" of North Korean soldiers to aid Russia's war effort, it said.
Pyongyang is reportedly "preparing for the rotation or additional deployment of soldiers," the JCS said.
Intelligence also suggests that the nuclear-armed North is "producing and providing self-destructible drones" to Russia to further assist Moscow in its fight against Ukraine, it added.
The North was also supplying "240mm rocket launchers and 170mm self-propelled artillery" for the Russian army, the JCS said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/subway-horror-in-new-york-sleeping-woman-set-on-fire-by-stranger-police-nab-suspect-786079">Subway horror in New York: Sleeping woman set on fire by stranger, police nab suspect</a>
Seoul's military noted that North Korea was aiming to modernise its conventional warfare capabilities based on combat experience in the Russia-Ukraine war.
"This could lead to an increase in the North's military threat toward us," it said.
The latest findings align with a report by the National Intelligence Service, which informed lawmakers that "Russia might offer reciprocal benefits" for North Korea's military contributions, including "modernising North Korea's conventional weaponry".
<h2>New border fence</h2>
North Korea and Russia have strengthened their military ties since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
A landmark defence pact between Pyongyang and Moscow, signed in June, came into force this month.
Experts say North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is keen to acquire advanced technology from Russia and battle experience for his troops.
Pyongyang lashed out on Thursday at what it called "reckless provocation" by the United States and its allies for a joint statement criticising North Korea's support for Russia's war in Ukraine, including the deployment of troops.
South Korea and Ukraine announced last month that they would deepen security cooperation in response to the "threat" posed by the deployment of North Korean troops, but there was no mention of potential arms shipments from Seoul to Kyiv.
South Korea's suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol said in November that Seoul was "not ruling out the possibility of providing weapons" to Ukraine, which would mark a significant shift in its long-standing policy barring the sale of weapons to countries in active conflict.
North Korea's military was also seen constructing a new fence stretching 40 kilometres (25 miles) along the border with the South, testing electric barbed-wire fences with what appeared to be goats.
A photo provided by the JCS shows a North Korean soldier holding what appears to be a goat in front of barbed-wire fences.
The North's border security reinforcement had been underway "for eight months with as many as 10,000 soldiers mobilised", a military official told reporters.
The stepped-up security measures aim to "prevent defections by North Korean civilians and soldiers southward", the JCS said in the report.
The North has also launched around 7,000 trash-carrying balloons into the South on 32 occasions since May, Seoul's military said.
Activist groups in South Korea have long sent propaganda northwards, typically carried by balloons, including leaflets, US dollar bills and sometimes USB drives containing K-pop or K-dramas, which are banned in the tightly controlled North.
Pyongyang rails at such activity and has said its trash-carrying balloon offensive is in retaliation for the activists' propaganda efforts.
While Pyongyang has refrained from launching such balloons since November 29, "indications of their readiness for a surprise launch at multiple sites" have been observed, Seoul's military said. 
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The new figure follows a report by Seoul's spy agency to MPs last week, which said at least 100 North Korean soldiers had been killed since entering combat in December



Seoul, South Korea More than 1,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded in Russia's war with Ukraine, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said on Monday. The new figure follows a report by Seoul's spy agency to MPs last week, which said at least 100 North Korean soldiers had been killed since entering combat in December. Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to reinforce the Russian military, including to the Kursk border region, where Ukrainian forces seized territory earlier this year. Also read | Video: Russia captures ‘Australian’ man fighting for Ukraine, Canberra opens probe "Through various sources of information and intelligence, we assess that North Korean troops who have recently engaged in combat with Ukrainian forces have suffered around 1,100 casualties," the JCS said in a statement. "We are particularly interested in the possibility of additional deployments" of North Korean soldiers to aid Russia's war effort, it said. Pyongyang is reportedly "preparing for the rotation or additional deployment of soldiers," the JCS said. Intelligence also suggests that the nuclear-armed North is "producing and providing self-destructible drones" to Russia to further assist Moscow in its fight against Ukraine, it added. The North was also supplying "240mm rocket launchers and 170mm self-propelled artillery" for the Russian army, the JCS said. Also read | Subway horror in New York: Sleeping woman set on fire by stranger, police nab suspect Seoul's military noted that North Korea was aiming to modernise its conventional warfare capabilities based on combat experience in the Russia-Ukraine war. "This could lead to an increase in the North's military threat toward us," it said. The latest findings align with a report by the National Intelligence Service, which informed lawmakers that "Russia might offer reciprocal benefits" for North Korea's military contributions, including "modernising North Korea's conventional weaponry". New border fence North Korea and Russia have strengthened their military ties since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. A landmark defence pact between Pyongyang and Moscow, signed in June, came into force this month. Experts say North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is keen to acquire advanced technology from Russia and battle experience for his troops. Pyongyang lashed out on Thursday at what it called "reckless provocation" by the United States and its allies for a joint statement criticising North Korea's support for Russia's war in Ukraine, including the deployment of troops. South Korea and Ukraine announced last month that they would deepen security cooperation in response to the "threat" posed by the deployment of North Korean troops, but there was no mention of potential arms shipments from Seoul to Kyiv. South Korea's suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol said in November that Seoul was "not ruling out the possibility of providing weapons" to Ukraine, which would mark a significant shift in its long-standing policy barring the sale of weapons to countries in active conflict. North Korea's military was also seen constructing a new fence stretching 40 kilometres (25 miles) along the border with the South, testing electric barbed-wire fences with what appeared to be goats. A photo provided by the JCS shows a North Korean soldier holding what appears to be a goat in front of barbed-wire fences. The North's border security reinforcement had been underway "for eight months with as many as 10,000 soldiers mobilised", a military official told reporters. The stepped-up security measures aim to "prevent defections by North Korean civilians and soldiers southward", the JCS said in the report. The North has also launched around 7,000 trash-carrying balloons into the South on 32 occasions since May, Seoul's military said. Activist groups in South Korea have long sent propaganda northwards, typically carried by balloons, including leaflets, US dollar bills and sometimes USB drives containing K-pop or K-dramas, which are banned in the tightly controlled North. Pyongyang rails at such activity and has said its trash-carrying balloon offensive is in retaliation for the activists' propaganda efforts. While Pyongyang has refrained from launching such balloons since November 29, "indications of their readiness for a surprise launch at multiple sites" have been observed, Seoul's military said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Over 1,000 North Korean soldiers killed or wounded in Russia-Ukraine war: South Korea

More than 1,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded in Russia's war with Ukraine, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said on Monday.

The new figure follows a report by Seoul's spy agency to MPs last week, which said at least 100 North Korean soldiers had been killed since entering combat in December.

Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to reinforce the Russian military, including to the Kursk border region, where Ukrainian forces seized territory earlier this year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-russia-captures-australian-man-fighting-for-ukraine-canberra-opens-probe-786121">Video: Russia captures ‘Australian’ man fighting for Ukraine, Canberra opens probe</a>

"Through various sources of information and intelligence, we assess that North Korean troops who have recently engaged in combat with Ukrainian forces have suffered around 1,100 casualties," the JCS said in a statement.

"We are particularly interested in the possibility of additional deployments" of North Korean soldiers to aid Russia's war effort, it said.

Pyongyang is reportedly "preparing for the rotation or additional deployment of soldiers," the JCS said.

Intelligence also suggests that the nuclear-armed North is "producing and providing self-destructible drones" to Russia to further assist Moscow in its fight against Ukraine, it added.

The North was also supplying "240mm rocket launchers and 170mm self-propelled artillery" for the Russian army, the JCS said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/subway-horror-in-new-york-sleeping-woman-set-on-fire-by-stranger-police-nab-suspect-786079">Subway horror in New York: Sleeping woman set on fire by stranger, police nab suspect</a>

Seoul's military noted that North Korea was aiming to modernise its conventional warfare capabilities based on combat experience in the Russia-Ukraine war.

"This could lead to an increase in the North's military threat toward us," it said.

The latest findings align with a report by the National Intelligence Service, which informed lawmakers that "Russia might offer reciprocal benefits" for North Korea's military contributions, including "modernising North Korea's conventional weaponry".

<h2>New border fence</h2>

North Korea and Russia have strengthened their military ties since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

A landmark defence pact between Pyongyang and Moscow, signed in June, came into force this month.

Experts say North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is keen to acquire advanced technology from Russia and battle experience for his troops.

Pyongyang lashed out on Thursday at what it called "reckless provocation" by the United States and its allies for a joint statement criticising North Korea's support for Russia's war in Ukraine, including the deployment of troops.

South Korea and Ukraine announced last month that they would deepen security cooperation in response to the "threat" posed by the deployment of North Korean troops, but there was no mention of potential arms shipments from Seoul to Kyiv.

South Korea's suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol said in November that Seoul was "not ruling out the possibility of providing weapons" to Ukraine, which would mark a significant shift in its long-standing policy barring the sale of weapons to countries in active conflict.

North Korea's military was also seen constructing a new fence stretching 40 kilometres (25 miles) along the border with the South, testing electric barbed-wire fences with what appeared to be goats.

A photo provided by the JCS shows a North Korean soldier holding what appears to be a goat in front of barbed-wire fences.

The North's border security reinforcement had been underway "for eight months with as many as 10,000 soldiers mobilised", a military official told reporters.

The stepped-up security measures aim to "prevent defections by North Korean civilians and soldiers southward", the JCS said in the report.

The North has also launched around 7,000 trash-carrying balloons into the South on 32 occasions since May, Seoul's military said.

Activist groups in South Korea have long sent propaganda northwards, typically carried by balloons, including leaflets, US dollar bills and sometimes USB drives containing K-pop or K-dramas, which are banned in the tightly controlled North.

Pyongyang rails at such activity and has said its trash-carrying balloon offensive is in retaliation for the activists' propaganda efforts.

While Pyongyang has refrained from launching such balloons since November 29, "indications of their readiness for a surprise launch at multiple sites" have been observed, Seoul's military said.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

More than 1,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded in Russia's war with Ukraine, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said on Monday. The new figure follows a report by Seoul's spy agency to MPs last week, which said at least 100 North Korean soldiers had been killed since entering combat in December.

More than 1,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded in Russia's war with Ukraine, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said on Monday. The new figure follows a report by Seoul's spy agency to MPs last week, which said at least 100 North Korean soldiers had been killed since entering combat in December. Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to reinforce the Russian military, including to the Kursk border region, where Ukrainian forces seized territory earlier this year. Also read | Video: Russia captures ‘Australian’ man fighting for Ukraine, Canberra opens probe "Through various sources of information and intelligence, we assess that North Korean troops who have recently engaged in combat with Ukrainian forces have suffered around 1,100 casualties," the JCS said in a statement. "We are particularly interested in the possibility of additional deployments" of North Korean soldiers to aid Russia's war effort, it said. Pyongyang is reportedly "preparing for the rotation or additional deployment of soldiers," the JCS said. Intelligence also suggests that the nuclear-armed North is "producing and providing self-destructible drones" to Russia to further assist Moscow in its fight against Ukraine, it added. The North was also supplying "240mm rocket launchers and 170mm self-propelled artillery" for the Russian army, the JCS said. Also read | Subway horror in New York: Sleeping woman set on fire by stranger, police nab suspect Seoul's military noted that North Korea was aiming to modernise its conventional warfare capabilities based on combat experience in the Russia-Ukraine war. "This could lead to an increase in the North's military threat toward us," it said. The latest findings align with a report by the National Intelligence Service, which informed lawmakers that "Russia might offer reciprocal benefits" for North Korea's military contributions, including "modernising North Korea's conventional weaponry". New border fence North Korea and Russia have strengthened their military ties since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. A landmark defence pact between Pyongyang and Moscow, signed in June, came into force this month. Experts say North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is keen to acquire advanced technology from Russia and battle experience for his troops. Pyongyang lashed out on Thursday at what it called "reckless provocation" by the United States and its allies for a joint statement criticising North Korea's support for Russia's war in Ukraine, including the deployment of troops. South Korea and Ukraine announced last month that they would deepen security cooperation in response to the "threat" posed by the deployment of North Korean troops, but there was no mention of potential arms shipments from Seoul to Kyiv. South Korea's suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol said in November that Seoul was "not ruling out the possibility of providing weapons" to Ukraine, which would mark a significant shift in its long-standing policy barring the sale of weapons to countries in active conflict. North Korea's military was also seen constructing a new fence stretching 40 kilometres (25 miles) along the border with the South, testing electric barbed-wire fences with what appeared to be goats. A photo provided by the JCS shows a North Korean soldier holding what appears to be a goat in front of barbed-wire fences. The North's border security reinforcement had been underway "for eight months with as many as 10,000 soldiers mobilised", a military official told reporters. The stepped-up security measures aim to "prevent defections by North Korean civilians and soldiers southward", the JCS said in the report. The North has also launched around 7,000 trash-carrying balloons into the South on 32 occasions since May, Seoul's military said. Activist groups in South Korea have long sent propaganda northwards, typically carried by balloons, including leaflets, US dollar bills and sometimes USB drives containing K-pop or K-dramas, which are banned in the tightly controlled North. Pyongyang rails at such activity and has said its trash-carrying balloon offensive is in retaliation for the activists' propaganda efforts. While Pyongyang has refrained from launching such balloons since November 29, "indications of their readiness for a surprise launch at multiple sites" have been observed, Seoul's military said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Kazan, Russia
Ukraine on Saturday (Dec 21) launched a drone attack deep inside Russia, hitting several residential high-rise buildings in the city of Kazan.
According to media reports, the strike was carried out using Kamikaze drones.
A video of the strike, purportedly shot by eyewitnesses, shows the drones hitting a residential building head on, in what some users have labelled as a '9/11-style' attack.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russia-launches-barrage-of-missiles-on-kyiv-killing-1-and-cutting-heating-to-numerous-buildings-785532">Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions</a>
Watch the dramatic video here. Viewer discretion is advised.
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
? SHOCKING VIDEO: Drone SLAMS into Kazan Skyline! ???
Watch as this rogue drone CRASHES into a high-rise in Kazan, Russia! No reports on injuries yet, but the footage is INTENSE! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KazanDroneStrike?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KazanDroneStrike</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BreakingNews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BreakingNews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://t.co/gkBBXPBfAP">pic.twitter.com/gkBBXPBfAP</a>
— WarNewsDaily??? (@XNews24_7) <a href="https://twitter.com/XNews24_7/status/1870368058969350381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Emergency services deployed</h2>
According to a TASS report, emergency services were dispatched to the sites of the attack.
As of now, there are no reports of casualties from the attack. Reports circulating on Telegram suggest that residents were being evacuated from the impacted buildings.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-mass-rape-youll-die-alone-like-a-dog-daughter-caroline-tells-convicted-rapist-dominique-pelicot-785505">France mass rape: 'You’ll die alone like a dog,' daughter Caroline tells convicted rapist Dominique Pélicot</a>
This attack comes hours after the Russian Defence Ministry on its Telegram channel reported that its air defences shot down one "Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle over the Republic of Tatarstan," whose capital is Kazan. 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Videos of the strike purportedly show the drones hitting a residential building head on, in what some users have labelled a '9/11-style attack'



Kazan, Russia Ukraine on Saturday (Dec 21) launched a drone attack deep inside Russia, hitting several residential high-rise buildings in the city of Kazan. According to media reports, the strike was carried out using Kamikaze drones. A video of the strike, purportedly shot by eyewitnesses, shows the drones hitting a residential building head on, in what some users have labelled as a '9/11-style' attack. Also read | Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions Watch the dramatic video here. Viewer discretion is advised. ? SHOCKING VIDEO: Drone SLAMS into Kazan Skyline! ??? Watch as this rogue drone CRASHES into a high-rise in Kazan, Russia! No reports on injuries yet, but the footage is INTENSE! #KazanDroneStrike #BreakingNews #Russia #Ukraine pic.twitter.com/gkBBXPBfAP — WarNewsDaily??? (@XNews24_7) December 21, 2024 × Emergency services deployed According to a TASS report, emergency services were dispatched to the sites of the attack. As of now, there are no reports of casualties from the attack. Reports circulating on Telegram suggest that residents were being evacuated from the impacted buildings. Also read | France mass rape: 'You’ll die alone like a dog,' daughter Caroline tells convicted rapist Dominique Pélicot This attack comes hours after the Russian Defence Ministry on its Telegram channel reported that its air defences shot down one "Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle over the Republic of Tatarstan," whose capital is Kazan. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Video: Ukraine hits Russian residential high-rises in Kazan. Dramatic visuals show '9/11-style attack'

Ukraine on Saturday (Dec 21) launched a drone attack deep inside&nbsp;Russia, hitting several residential high-rise buildings in the city of Kazan.

According to media reports, the strike was carried out using Kamikaze drones.

A video of the strike,&nbsp;purportedly shot by eyewitnesses, shows the drones hitting a residential building head on, in what some users have labelled as a '9/11-style' attack.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russia-launches-barrage-of-missiles-on-kyiv-killing-1-and-cutting-heating-to-numerous-buildings-785532">Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions</a>

Watch the dramatic video here. Viewer discretion is advised.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
🚨 SHOCKING VIDEO: Drone SLAMS into Kazan Skyline! 🚁🔥👇 
Watch as this rogue drone CRASHES into a high-rise in Kazan, Russia! No reports on injuries yet, but the footage is INTENSE! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KazanDroneStrike?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KazanDroneStrike</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BreakingNews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BreakingNews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://t.co/gkBBXPBfAP">pic.twitter.com/gkBBXPBfAP</a>
— WarNewsDaily🪖🚨🪖 (@XNews24_7) <a href="https://twitter.com/XNews24_7/status/1870368058969350381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Emergency services deployed</h2>

According to a TASS report, emergency services were dispatched to the sites of the attack.

As of now, there are no reports of casualties from the attack. Reports circulating on Telegram suggest that residents were being evacuated from the impacted buildings.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-mass-rape-youll-die-alone-like-a-dog-daughter-caroline-tells-convicted-rapist-dominique-pelicot-785505">France mass rape: 'You’ll die alone like a dog,' daughter Caroline tells convicted rapist Dominique Pélicot</a>

This attack comes hours after the Russian Defence Ministry on its Telegram channel reported that its air defences shot down one "Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle over the Republic of Tatarstan," whose capital is Kazan.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos&nbsp;and&nbsp;videos.

Ukraine on Saturday (Dec 21) launched a drone attack deep inside Russia, hitting several residential high-rise buildings in the city of Kazan. According to media reports, the strike was carried out using Kamikaze drones.

Ukraine on Saturday (Dec 21) launched a drone attack deep inside Russia, hitting several residential high-rise buildings in the city of Kazan. According to media reports, the strike was carried out using Kamikaze drones. A video of the strike, purportedly shot by eyewitnesses, shows the drones hitting a residential building head on, in what some users have labelled as a '9/11-style' attack. Also read | Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions Watch the dramatic video here. Viewer discretion is advised. 🚨 SHOCKING VIDEO: Drone SLAMS into Kazan Skyline! 🚁🔥👇 Watch as this rogue drone CRASHES into a high-rise in Kazan, Russia! No reports on injuries yet, but the footage is INTENSE! #KazanDroneStrike #BreakingNews #Russia #Ukraine pic.twitter.com/gkBBXPBfAP — WarNewsDaily🪖🚨🪖 (@XNews24_7) December 21, 2024 × Emergency services deployed According to a TASS report, emergency services were dispatched to the sites of the attack. As of now, there are no reports of casualties from the attack. Reports circulating on Telegram suggest that residents were being evacuated from the impacted buildings. Also read | France mass rape: 'You’ll die alone like a dog,' daughter Caroline tells convicted rapist Dominique Pélicot This attack comes hours after the Russian Defence Ministry on its Telegram channel reported that its air defences shot down one "Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle over the Republic of Tatarstan," whose capital is Kazan. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Dec 19) voiced his support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea to potentially deploy Western troops in Ukraine if and when Ukraine-Russia war ends. However, he said that the initiative needed to be fleshed out.

"If we are talking about a contingent, we need to be specific — how many, what they will do if there is aggression from Russia," he said. "The main thing is that this is not some artificial story, we need effective mechanisms."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;at a press conference commented that he should've launched a full scale Russian invasion of Ukraine earlier.

"Knowing what's happening now, back in 2022, I would've thought the decision ought to have been taken earlier. We ought to have started getting ready for those developments and the special military operation before."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/create-more-passionate-content-putin-pitches-for-alternatives-to-porn-785435">‘Create more passionate content,’ Putin pitches for alternatives to porn</a>

This comes as Kyiv's European allies as per reports are seriously considering the deployment of their troops in the event of a deal with Russia to stop Ukraine war happens.

<h2>EU leaders discuss potential deployment</h2>

Originally, when Macron said he can't rule out Western troop deployment, EU leaders had responded with a resounding "no". However, now they are willing to consider it.

As per a Washington Post report, European leaders on Wednesday (Dec 18) discussed the prospect of boots on the ground when NATO Chief Mark Rutte hosted European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Brussels.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-putin-praises-jaishankars-brics-isnt-anti-western-stance-calls-modi-a-warm-ally-785405">Putin praises Jaishankar’s ‘BRICS isn’t anti-Western’ stance; calls Modi a ‘warm ally’</a>

The idea is being floated as world leaders brace for US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House. Citing officials in the know, the Post reported that Trump is interested in the idea too, but it remains unclear if the incoming US administration will support such an arrangement.

Camille Grand, a former NATO assistant secretary general, in a statement said that "At the moment, it’s really about trying to think out loud what could be more acceptable for the Ukrainians".

According to Grand, a post-war troop deployment deal could also help make clear to Russia that "they shouldn’t restart the conflict, and to the Americans that the Europeans have skin in this game and that we mean it".

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Dec 19) voiced his support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea to potentially deploy Western troops in Ukraine if and when Ukraine-Russia war ends.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Dec 19) voiced his support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea to potentially deploy Western troops in Ukraine if and when Ukraine-Russia war ends. However, he said that the initiative needed to be fleshed out. "If we are talking about a contingent, we need to be specific — how many, what they will do if there is aggression from Russia," he said. "The main thing is that this is not some artificial story, we need effective mechanisms." Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin at a press conference commented that he should've launched a full scale Russian invasion of Ukraine earlier. "Knowing what's happening now, back in 2022, I would've thought the decision ought to have been taken earlier. We ought to have started getting ready for those developments and the special military operation before." Also read | ‘Create more passionate content,’ Putin pitches for alternatives to porn This comes as Kyiv's European allies as per reports are seriously considering the deployment of their troops in the event of a deal with Russia to stop Ukraine war happens. EU leaders discuss potential deployment Originally, when Macron said he can't rule out Western troop deployment, EU leaders had responded with a resounding "no". However, now they are willing to consider it. As per a Washington Post report, European leaders on Wednesday (Dec 18) discussed the prospect of boots on the ground when NATO Chief Mark Rutte hosted European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Brussels. Also read | Putin praises Jaishankar’s ‘BRICS isn’t anti-Western’ stance; calls Modi a ‘warm ally’ The idea is being floated as world leaders brace for US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House. Citing officials in the know, the Post reported that Trump is interested in the idea too, but it remains unclear if the incoming US administration will support such an arrangement. Camille Grand, a former NATO assistant secretary general, in a statement said that "At the moment, it’s really about trying to think out loud what could be more acceptable for the Ukrainians". According to Grand, a post-war troop deployment deal could also help make clear to Russia that "they shouldn’t restart the conflict, and to the Americans that the Europeans have skin in this game and that we mean it". (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky voices support for Western troop deployment in Ukraine, Putin says should've invaded earlier

Brussels, Belgium
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Dec 19) voiced his support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea to potentially deploy Western troops in Ukraine if and when Ukraine-Russia war ends. However, he said that the initiative needed to be fleshed out.
"If we are talking about a contingent, we need to be specific — how many, what they will do if there is aggression from Russia," he said. "The main thing is that this is not some artificial story, we need effective mechanisms." 
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin at a press conference commented that he should've launched a full scale Russian invasion of Ukraine earlier.
"Knowing what's happening now, back in 2022, I would've thought the decision ought to have been taken earlier. We ought to have started getting ready for those developments and the special military operation before."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/create-more-passionate-content-putin-pitches-for-alternatives-to-porn-785435">‘Create more passionate content,’ Putin pitches for alternatives to porn</a>
This comes as Kyiv's European allies as per reports are seriously considering the deployment of their troops in the event of a deal with Russia to stop Ukraine war happens.
<h2>EU leaders discuss potential deployment</h2>
Originally, when Macron said he can't rule out Western troop deployment, EU leaders had responded with a resounding "no". However, now they are willing to consider it.
As per a Washington Post report, European leaders on Wednesday (Dec 18) discussed the prospect of boots on the ground when NATO Chief Mark Rutte hosted European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Brussels.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-putin-praises-jaishankars-brics-isnt-anti-western-stance-calls-modi-a-warm-ally-785405">Putin praises Jaishankar’s ‘BRICS isn’t anti-Western’ stance; calls Modi a ‘warm ally’</a>
The idea is being floated as world leaders brace for US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House. Citing officials in the know, the Post reported that Trump is interested in the idea too, but it remains unclear if the incoming US administration will support such an arrangement.
Camille Grand, a former NATO assistant secretary general, in a statement said that "At the moment, it’s really about trying to think out loud what could be more acceptable for the Ukrainians".
According to Grand, a post-war troop deployment deal could also help make clear to Russia that "they shouldn’t restart the conflict, and to the Americans that the Europeans have skin in this game and that we mean it".
(With inputs from agencies)

"If we are talking about a contingent, we need to be specific — how many, what they will do if there is aggression from Russia," he said adding, "The main thing is that this is not some artificial story, we need effective mechanisms"



Brussels, Belgium Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Dec 19) voiced his support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea to potentially deploy Western troops in Ukraine if and when Ukraine-Russia war ends. However, he said that the initiative needed to be fleshed out. "If we are talking about a contingent, we need to be specific — how many, what they will do if there is aggression from Russia," he said. "The main thing is that this is not some artificial story, we need effective mechanisms." Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin at a press conference commented that he should've launched a full scale Russian invasion of Ukraine earlier. "Knowing what's happening now, back in 2022, I would've thought the decision ought to have been taken earlier. We ought to have started getting ready for those developments and the special military operation before." Also read | ‘Create more passionate content,’ Putin pitches for alternatives to porn This comes as Kyiv's European allies as per reports are seriously considering the deployment of their troops in the event of a deal with Russia to stop Ukraine war happens. EU leaders discuss potential deployment Originally, when Macron said he can't rule out Western troop deployment, EU leaders had responded with a resounding "no". However, now they are willing to consider it. As per a Washington Post report, European leaders on Wednesday (Dec 18) discussed the prospect of boots on the ground when NATO Chief Mark Rutte hosted European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Brussels. Also read | Putin praises Jaishankar’s ‘BRICS isn’t anti-Western’ stance; calls Modi a ‘warm ally’ The idea is being floated as world leaders brace for US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House. Citing officials in the know, the Post reported that Trump is interested in the idea too, but it remains unclear if the incoming US administration will support such an arrangement. Camille Grand, a former NATO assistant secretary general, in a statement said that "At the moment, it’s really about trying to think out loud what could be more acceptable for the Ukrainians". According to Grand, a post-war troop deployment deal could also help make clear to Russia that "they shouldn’t restart the conflict, and to the Americans that the Europeans have skin in this game and that we mean it". (With inputs from agencies)

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Warsaw on Thursday to discuss boosting support for Ukraine, against the backdrop of the possibility of peace talks to end Russia's war.

Poland has been a staunch backer of neighbouring Ukraine since Russia's invasion in February 2022 and serves as a crucial logistics hub for Western military aid to Kyiv.

The EU and NATO member has been discussing Ukraine with various foreign officials as it gears up to take over the rotating presidency of the European Union next month.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said on Tuesday that peace talks on ending the Ukraine war could begin "in the winter of this year".

"Our (EU) presidency will notably be co-responsible for what the political landscape will look like, perhaps how the situation will look during (peace) negotiations," he said.

Macron's office said he and Tusk would talk about "European support to Ukraine in a new trans-Atlantic context" ahead of Poland's EU presidency.

<h2>- Security guarantees -</h2>

US President-elect Donald Trump has said solving the Ukraine crisis would be his top priority once he assumes office next month.

Last Saturday, he met with Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a visit to France, his first international trip since his re-election.

Trump later wrote on his Truth Social platform that "there should be an immediate ceasefire and negotiations should begin".&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Zelensky said he was grateful for Trump's "strong resolve" to end the war in Ukraine.

He had earlier said that Ukraine needs "effective guarantees for peace" and has pushed for NATO membership.

"A ceasefire without guarantees can be reignited at any moment, as (Russian President Vladimir) Putin has already done before," he said.&nbsp;

<h2>- Western troops in Ukraine? -</h2>

Several media outlets have reported that Macron and Tusk could also discuss sending a European peacekeeping mission to Ukraine.

Paris has not confirmed the reports.

A diplomatic source said on condition of anonymity that "they will talk about security guarantees and what comes after, namely what tomorrow may look like, on the conditions that the Ukrainians will have set".&nbsp;

Defence expert Elie Tenenbaum told AFP that "France and Britain on the one hand, and then the Poles, the Baltics, the Scandinavian countries... and maybe other allies" could participate in such a plan.

Tenenbaum, an expert at the French Institute for International Relations (IFRI), estimated the potential number of troops at 40,000 soldiers.

Macron had already floated the idea of Western troops in Ukraine in February.

"Frankly, we can think and work on Emmanuel (Macron)'s position," Zelensky said in Kyiv on Monday.

"He proposed that some troops of some state should be present on the territory of Ukraine to guarantee our security while Ukraine is not in NATO," he added.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Warsaw on Thursday to discuss boosting support for Ukraine, against the backdrop of the possibility of peace talks to end Russia's war.

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Warsaw on Thursday to discuss boosting support for Ukraine, against the backdrop of the possibility of peace talks to end Russia's war. Poland has been a staunch backer of neighbouring Ukraine since Russia's invasion in February 2022 and serves as a crucial logistics hub for Western military aid to Kyiv. The EU and NATO member has been discussing Ukraine with various foreign officials as it gears up to take over the rotating presidency of the European Union next month. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said on Tuesday that peace talks on ending the Ukraine war could begin "in the winter of this year". "Our (EU) presidency will notably be co-responsible for what the political landscape will look like, perhaps how the situation will look during (peace) negotiations," he said. Macron's office said he and Tusk would talk about "European support to Ukraine in a new trans-Atlantic context" ahead of Poland's EU presidency. - Security guarantees - US President-elect Donald Trump has said solving the Ukraine crisis would be his top priority once he assumes office next month. Last Saturday, he met with Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a visit to France, his first international trip since his re-election. Trump later wrote on his Truth Social platform that "there should be an immediate ceasefire and negotiations should begin". On Tuesday, Zelensky said he was grateful for Trump's "strong resolve" to end the war in Ukraine. He had earlier said that Ukraine needs "effective guarantees for peace" and has pushed for NATO membership. "A ceasefire without guarantees can be reignited at any moment, as (Russian President Vladimir) Putin has already done before," he said. - Western troops in Ukraine? - Several media outlets have reported that Macron and Tusk could also discuss sending a European peacekeeping mission to Ukraine. Paris has not confirmed the reports. A diplomatic source said on condition of anonymity that "they will talk about security guarantees and what comes after, namely what tomorrow may look like, on the conditions that the Ukrainians will have set". Defence expert Elie Tenenbaum told AFP that "France and Britain on the one hand, and then the Poles, the Baltics, the Scandinavian countries... and maybe other allies" could participate in such a plan. Tenenbaum, an expert at the French Institute for International Relations (IFRI), estimated the potential number of troops at 40,000 soldiers. Macron had already floated the idea of Western troops in Ukraine in February. "Frankly, we can think and work on Emmanuel (Macron)'s position," Zelensky said in Kyiv on Monday. "He proposed that some troops of some state should be present on the territory of Ukraine to guarantee our security while Ukraine is not in NATO," he added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

French President Emmanuel Macron visits Warsaw to discuss Ukraine support

The United States on Monday (Dec 2) announced a fresh military aid package worth $725 million for Ukraine, amid fears that the incoming president Donald Trump will cut off all support to Kyiv. The new military aid includes a second tranche of landmines and anti-air and anti-armour weapons.

<h2>What does the aid package include?</h2>

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a statement said that the package was part of the Joe Biden administration's efforts "to ensure Ukraine has the capabilities it needs to defend itself against Russian aggression."

AFP news aegncy, citing Blinken reported that the military aid package includes anti-personnel landmines, ammunition for HIMARS precision rocket launchers, Stinger missiles, counter-drone systems, anti-armour weapons and artillery ammunition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-biden-slams-hamass-campaign-of-cruelty-expresses-outrage-over-us-israeli-soldiers-death-780979">Israel-Hamas war: Biden slams 'Hamas's campaign of cruelty,' expresses outrage over US-Israeli soldier's death</a>

This is the second shipment of landmines Washington is sending to Kyiv. Last month, in a major policy shift, the US announced its first shipment of landmines.

"Between now and mid-January, we will deliver hundreds of thousands of additional artillery rounds, thousands of additional rockets, and other critical capabilities to help Ukraine defend its freedom and independence," said National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in a statement.

<h2>The future of US aid to Ukraine</h2>

With less than two months until Trump's inauguration, the Biden administration is racing to ensure Ukraine receives the necessary support to fend off Russian advances. Trump has repeatedly criticised US assistance to Ukraine, claiming he could broker a ceasefire quickly, which has led to concerns in Kyiv and Europe about the future of American aid.

Pentagon spokesperson Major General Pat Ryder confirmed that all remaining US funding for Ukraine would be used before Biden’s term ends.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-chancellor-scholz-makes-surprise-visit-to-war-torn-ukraine-pledges-aid-780903">German chancellor Scholz makes surprise visit to war-torn Ukraine, pledges aid</a>

"At the president's direction, we will spend every dollar that Congress has appropriated for Ukraine and to replenish our stockpiles," he told journalists.

Previously, he revealed that $6.8 billion was still available from US stockpiles and an additional $2.2 billion is earmarked for procurement from defence contractors.

Since Russia launched its special military operation against Ukraine in February 2022, the US has emerged as one of Kyiv's key military backers, committing over $60 billion in weapons, ammunition and other security aid.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Monday (Dec 2) announced a fresh military aid package worth $725 million for Ukraine, amid fears that the incoming president Donald Trump will cut off all support to Kyiv.

The United States on Monday (Dec 2) announced a fresh military aid package worth $725 million for Ukraine, amid fears that the incoming president Donald Trump will cut off all support to Kyiv. The new military aid includes a second tranche of landmines and anti-air and anti-armour weapons. What does the aid package include? US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a statement said that the package was part of the Joe Biden administration's efforts "to ensure Ukraine has the capabilities it needs to defend itself against Russian aggression." AFP news aegncy, citing Blinken reported that the military aid package includes anti-personnel landmines, ammunition for HIMARS precision rocket launchers, Stinger missiles, counter-drone systems, anti-armour weapons and artillery ammunition. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Biden slams 'Hamas's campaign of cruelty,' expresses outrage over US-Israeli soldier's death This is the second shipment of landmines Washington is sending to Kyiv. Last month, in a major policy shift, the US announced its first shipment of landmines. "Between now and mid-January, we will deliver hundreds of thousands of additional artillery rounds, thousands of additional rockets, and other critical capabilities to help Ukraine defend its freedom and independence," said National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in a statement. The future of US aid to Ukraine With less than two months until Trump's inauguration, the Biden administration is racing to ensure Ukraine receives the necessary support to fend off Russian advances. Trump has repeatedly criticised US assistance to Ukraine, claiming he could broker a ceasefire quickly, which has led to concerns in Kyiv and Europe about the future of American aid. Pentagon spokesperson Major General Pat Ryder confirmed that all remaining US funding for Ukraine would be used before Biden’s term ends. Also read | German chancellor Scholz makes surprise visit to war-torn Ukraine, pledges aid "At the president's direction, we will spend every dollar that Congress has appropriated for Ukraine and to replenish our stockpiles," he told journalists. Previously, he revealed that $6.8 billion was still available from US stockpiles and an additional $2.2 billion is earmarked for procurement from defence contractors. Since Russia launched its special military operation against Ukraine in February 2022, the US has emerged as one of Kyiv's key military backers, committing over $60 billion in weapons, ammunition and other security aid. (With inputs from agencies)

US announces $725mn in military aid for Ukraine as Biden extends last-ditch support before Trump inauguration