<p>Hector served two violent tours in Iraq as a U.S. Marine, then got out, got a pension and a civilian job, and thought he was done with military service. But Friday, he boarded a plane for one more deployment, this time as a volunteer in Ukraine. He checked in several bags filled with rifle scopes, helmets and body armor donated by other veterans.</p>

<p>“Sanctions can help, but sanctions can’t help right now, and people need help right now,” said the former Marine, who lives in Tampa Bay, Florida, and like other veterans interviewed for this article asked that only his first name be used for security reasons. “I can help right now.”</p>

<p>He is one of a surge of U.S. veterans who say they are now preparing to join the fight in Ukraine, emboldened by the invitation of the country’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who this past week announced he was creating an “international legion” and asked volunteers from around the world to help defend his nation against Russia.</p>

<p>Ukraine’s minister of foreign affairs, Dmytro Kuleba, echoed the call for fighters, saying on Twitter, “Together we defeated Hitler, and we will defeat Putin, too.”</p>

<p>Hector said he hoped to cross the border to train Ukrainians in his expertise: armored vehicles and heavy weapons.</p>

<p>“A lot of veterans, we have a calling to serve, and we trained our whole career for this kind of war,” he said. “Sitting by and doing nothing? I had to do that when Afghanistan fell apart, and it weighted heavily on me. I had to act.”</p>

<p>All across the United States, small groups of military veterans are gathering, planning and getting passports in order. After years of serving in smoldering occupations, trying to spread democracy in places that had only a tepid interest in it, many are hungry for what they see as a righteous fight to defend freedom against an autocratic aggressor with a conventional and target-rich army.</p>

<p>“It’s a conflict that has a clear good and bad side, and maybe that stands apart from other recent conflicts,” said David Ribardo, a former Army officer who now owns a property management business in Allentown, Pennsylvania. “A lot of us are watching what is happening and just want to grab a rifle and go over there.”</p>

<p>After the invasion, he saw veterans flooding social media eager to join the fight. Unable to go because of commitments here, he has spent the past week acting as a sort of middle man for a group called Volunteers for Ukraine, identifying veterans and other volunteers with useful skills and connecting them with donors who buy gear and airline tickets.</p>

<p>“It was very quickly overwhelming. Almost too many people wanted to help,” he said. In the past week, he said he has worked to sift those with valuable combat or medical skills from people he described as “combat tourists, who don’t have the correct experience and would not be an asset.”</p>

<p>He said his group has also had to comb out a number of extremists.</p>

<p>Fundraising sites such as GoFundMe have rules against collecting money for armed conflict, so Ribardo said his group and others have been careful to avoid specifically directing anyone to get involved in the fighting. Rather, he said, he simply connects those he has vetted with people who want to donate plane tickets and nonlethal supplies, describing his role as being “a Tinder for veterans and donors.”</p>

<p>A number of mainstream media outlets, including Military Times and Time, have published step-by-step guides on joining the military in Ukraine. The Ukrainian government instructed interested volunteers to contact its consulates.</p>

<p>Several veterans who contacted the consulates this past week said they were still waiting for a response and believed staff members were overwhelmed.</p>

<p>On Thursday, Zelenskyy said in a video on Telegram that 16,000 volunteers had joined the international brigade, although it is unclear what the true number is. The New York Times was not able to identify any veterans actively fighting in Ukraine.</p>

<p>The outpouring of support is driven, veterans said, by past experiences. Some want to try to recapture the intense clarity and purpose they felt in war, which is often missing in modern suburban life. Others want a chance to make amends for failed missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, and see the fight to defend a democracy against a totalitarian invader as the reason they joined the military.</p>

<p>To an extent not seen in past conflicts, the impulse to join has been fueled partly by an increasingly connected world. Americans watching real-time video in Ukraine can, with a click, connect to like-minded volunteers around the globe. A veteran in Phoenix can find a donor in London with unused airline miles, a driver in Warsaw, Poland, offering a free ride to the border and a local to stay with in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Of course, war is rarely as straightforward as the deeply felt idealism that drives people to enlist. And volunteers risk not only their own lives, but also drawing the United States into a direct conflict with Russia.</p>

<p>“War is an unpredictable animal, and once you let it out, no one — no one — knows what will happen,” said Daniel Gale, who lost a leg in Iraq before going on to teach leadership for several years at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and retiring as a lieutenant colonel. He said he understood the urge to fight but said the risk of escalation resulting in nuclear war was too great.</p>

<p>“I just feel heartsick,” he said. “War is terrible and the innocent always suffer most.”</p>

<p>The risk of unintended escalation has led the U.S. government to try to keep citizens from becoming freelance fighters, not just in this conflict, but for centuries. In 1793, President George Washington issued a Proclamation of Neutrality warning Americans to stay out of the French Revolution. But the efforts have been uneven, and often swayed by the larger national sentiment. So over the generations, a steady stream of idealists, romantics, mercenaries and filibusters have taken up arms, — riding with Pancho Villa in Mexico, ferrying arms to Cuba, battling communists in Africa and even trying to establish new slave states in Central America.</p>

<p>The civil war in Spain just before the start of World War II is the best-known example. More than 3,000 Americans joined what became know as the Lincoln-Washington Battalion, to fight with the elected leftist government against fascist forces.</p>

<p>At the time, the United States wanted to avoid war with Europe, and stayed neutral, but the Young Communist League rented billboards to recruit fighters, and members of the establishment held fundraisers to send young men overseas.</p>

<p>That effort, now often romanticized as a valiant prelude to the fight against the Nazis, ended badly. The poorly trained and equipped brigades made a disastrous assault of a fortified ridge in 1937 and three-quarters of the men were killed or wounded. Others faced near starvation in captivity. Their leader, a former math professor who was the inspiration for the protagonist in Ernest Hemingway’s novel “For Whom the Bell Tolls” was later captured and most likely executed.</p>

<p>On Thursday, Russian Defense Ministry spokesperson Igor Konashenkov told the Russian News Agency that foreign fighters would not be considered soldiers, but mercenaries, and would not be protected under humanitarian rules regarding the treatment of prisoners of war.</p>

<p>“At best, they can expect to be prosecuted as criminals,” Konashenkov said. “We are urging all foreign citizens who may have plans to go and fight for Kyiv’s nationalist regime to think a dozen times before getting on the way.”</p>

<p>Despite the risks — both individual and strategic — the U.S. government has so far been measured in its warnings. Asked during a news conference this past week what he would tell Americans who want to fight in Ukraine, Secretary of State Antony Blinken pointed to official statements, first issued weeks ago, imploring U.S. citizens in the country to depart immediately.</p>

<p>He said: “For those who want to help Ukraine and help its people, there are many ways to do that, including by supporting and helping the many NGOs that are working to provide humanitarian assistance; providing resources themselves to groups that are trying to help Ukraine by being advocates for Ukraine and for peaceful resolution to this crisis that was created by Russia.”</p>

<p>That has not dissuaded a number of veterans who are all too familiar with the risks of combat.</p>

<p>James was a medic who first saw combat when he replaced another medic killed in fighting in Iraq in 2006. He did two more tours, in Iraq and Afghanistan, seeing so much blood and death that 10 years after leaving the military he still attends therapy at a veterans hospital.</p>

<p>But this past week, as he watched Russian forces shell cities across Ukraine, he decided that he had to try to go there to help.</p>

<p>“Combat has a cost, that’s for sure; you think you can come back from war the same, but you can’t,” James said in a phone interview from his home in Dallas, where he said he was waiting to hear back from Ukrainian officials. “But I feel obligated. It’s the innocent people being attacked — the kids. It’s the kids, man. I just can’t stand by.”</p>

<p>Chase, a graduate student in Virginia, said that he volunteered to fight the Islamic State group in Syria in 2019 and felt the same urgency for Ukraine, but he warned against simply going to the border without a plan.</p>

<p>In Syria, he said he knew well-meaning volunteers who were detained for weeks by local Kurdish authorities because they arrived unannounced. He arranged with Kurdish defense forces before arriving in Syria. There he spent months as a humble foot soldier with little pay and only basic rations.</p>

<p>Tactically, as an inexperienced grunt, he said, he was of little value. But to the people of northeastern Syria, he was a powerful symbol that the world was with them.</p>

<p>“I was a sign to them that the world was watching and they mattered,” he said.</p>

<p>A few months into his time in Syria, he was shot in the leg and eventually returned to the United States. He came home and worked for a septic tank company, then got a job writing about used cars. When he saw explosions hitting Ukraine this past week, the part of him that went to war three years ago reawakened.</p>

<p>“Everything here is just kind of empty, and it doesn’t seem like I’m doing anything important,” he said in an interview from an extended-stay hotel in Virginia where he is living. “So I am trying to go. I don’t think I have a choice. You have to draw the line.”</p>


Hector served two violent tours in Iraq as a U.S. Marine, then got out, got a pension and a civilian job, and thought he was done with military service. But Friday, he boarded a plane for one more deployment, this time as a volunteer in Ukraine.

Hector served two violent tours in Iraq as a U.S. Marine, then got out, got a pension and a civilian job, and thought he was done with military service. But Friday, he boarded a plane for one more deployment, this time as a volunteer in Ukraine. He checked in several bags filled with rifle scopes, helmets and body armor donated by other veterans. “Sanctions can help, but sanctions can’t help right now, and people need help right now,” said the former Marine, who lives in Tampa Bay, Florida, and like other veterans interviewed for this article asked that only his first name be used for security reasons. “I can help right now.” He is one of a surge of U.S. veterans who say they are now preparing to join the fight in Ukraine, emboldened by the invitation of the country’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who this past week announced he was creating an “international legion” and asked volunteers from around the world to help defend his nation against Russia. Ukraine’s minister of foreign affairs, Dmytro Kuleba, echoed the call for fighters, saying on Twitter, “Together we defeated Hitler, and we will defeat Putin, too.” Hector said he hoped to cross the border to train Ukrainians in his expertise: armored vehicles and heavy weapons. “A lot of veterans, we have a calling to serve, and we trained our whole career for this kind of war,” he said. “Sitting by and doing nothing? I had to do that when Afghanistan fell apart, and it weighted heavily on me. I had to act.” All across the United States, small groups of military veterans are gathering, planning and getting passports in order. After years of serving in smoldering occupations, trying to spread democracy in places that had only a tepid interest in it, many are hungry for what they see as a righteous fight to defend freedom against an autocratic aggressor with a conventional and target-rich army. “It’s a conflict that has a clear good and bad side, and maybe that stands apart from other recent conflicts,” said David Ribardo, a former Army officer who now owns a property management business in Allentown, Pennsylvania. “A lot of us are watching what is happening and just want to grab a rifle and go over there.” After the invasion, he saw veterans flooding social media eager to join the fight. Unable to go because of commitments here, he has spent the past week acting as a sort of middle man for a group called Volunteers for Ukraine, identifying veterans and other volunteers with useful skills and connecting them with donors who buy gear and airline tickets. “It was very quickly overwhelming. Almost too many people wanted to help,” he said. In the past week, he said he has worked to sift those with valuable combat or medical skills from people he described as “combat tourists, who don’t have the correct experience and would not be an asset.” He said his group has also had to comb out a number of extremists. Fundraising sites such as GoFundMe have rules against collecting money for armed conflict, so Ribardo said his group and others have been careful to avoid specifically directing anyone to get involved in the fighting. Rather, he said, he simply connects those he has vetted with people who want to donate plane tickets and nonlethal supplies, describing his role as being “a Tinder for veterans and donors.” A number of mainstream media outlets, including Military Times and Time, have published step-by-step guides on joining the military in Ukraine. The Ukrainian government instructed interested volunteers to contact its consulates. Several veterans who contacted the consulates this past week said they were still waiting for a response and believed staff members were overwhelmed. On Thursday, Zelenskyy said in a video on Telegram that 16,000 volunteers had joined the international brigade, although it is unclear what the true number is. The New York Times was not able to identify any veterans actively fighting in Ukraine. The outpouring of support is driven, veterans said, by past experiences. Some want to try to recapture the intense clarity and purpose they felt in war, which is often missing in modern suburban life. Others want a chance to make amends for failed missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, and see the fight to defend a democracy against a totalitarian invader as the reason they joined the military. To an extent not seen in past conflicts, the impulse to join has been fueled partly by an increasingly connected world. Americans watching real-time video in Ukraine can, with a click, connect to like-minded volunteers around the globe. A veteran in Phoenix can find a donor in London with unused airline miles, a driver in Warsaw, Poland, offering a free ride to the border and a local to stay with in Ukraine. Of course, war is rarely as straightforward as the deeply felt idealism that drives people to enlist. And volunteers risk not only their own lives, but also drawing the United States into a direct conflict with Russia. “War is an unpredictable animal, and once you let it out, no one — no one — knows what will happen,” said Daniel Gale, who lost a leg in Iraq before going on to teach leadership for several years at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and retiring as a lieutenant colonel. He said he understood the urge to fight but said the risk of escalation resulting in nuclear war was too great. “I just feel heartsick,” he said. “War is terrible and the innocent always suffer most.” The risk of unintended escalation has led the U.S. government to try to keep citizens from becoming freelance fighters, not just in this conflict, but for centuries. In 1793, President George Washington issued a Proclamation of Neutrality warning Americans to stay out of the French Revolution. But the efforts have been uneven, and often swayed by the larger national sentiment. So over the generations, a steady stream of idealists, romantics, mercenaries and filibusters have taken up arms, — riding with Pancho Villa in Mexico, ferrying arms to Cuba, battling communists in Africa and even trying to establish new slave states in Central America. The civil war in Spain just before the start of World War II is the best-known example. More than 3,000 Americans joined what became know as the Lincoln-Washington Battalion, to fight with the elected leftist government against fascist forces. At the time, the United States wanted to avoid war with Europe, and stayed neutral, but the Young Communist League rented billboards to recruit fighters, and members of the establishment held fundraisers to send young men overseas. That effort, now often romanticized as a valiant prelude to the fight against the Nazis, ended badly. The poorly trained and equipped brigades made a disastrous assault of a fortified ridge in 1937 and three-quarters of the men were killed or wounded. Others faced near starvation in captivity. Their leader, a former math professor who was the inspiration for the protagonist in Ernest Hemingway’s novel “For Whom the Bell Tolls” was later captured and most likely executed. On Thursday, Russian Defense Ministry spokesperson Igor Konashenkov told the Russian News Agency that foreign fighters would not be considered soldiers, but mercenaries, and would not be protected under humanitarian rules regarding the treatment of prisoners of war. “At best, they can expect to be prosecuted as criminals,” Konashenkov said. “We are urging all foreign citizens who may have plans to go and fight for Kyiv’s nationalist regime to think a dozen times before getting on the way.” Despite the risks — both individual and strategic — the U.S. government has so far been measured in its warnings. Asked during a news conference this past week what he would tell Americans who want to fight in Ukraine, Secretary of State Antony Blinken pointed to official statements, first issued weeks ago, imploring U.S. citizens in the country to depart immediately. He said: “For those who want to help Ukraine and help its people, there are many ways to do that, including by supporting and helping the many NGOs that are working to provide humanitarian assistance; providing resources themselves to groups that are trying to help Ukraine by being advocates for Ukraine and for peaceful resolution to this crisis that was created by Russia.” That has not dissuaded a number of veterans who are all too familiar with the risks of combat. James was a medic who first saw combat when he replaced another medic killed in fighting in Iraq in 2006. He did two more tours, in Iraq and Afghanistan, seeing so much blood and death that 10 years after leaving the military he still attends therapy at a veterans hospital. But this past week, as he watched Russian forces shell cities across Ukraine, he decided that he had to try to go there to help. “Combat has a cost, that’s for sure; you think you can come back from war the same, but you can’t,” James said in a phone interview from his home in Dallas, where he said he was waiting to hear back from Ukrainian officials. “But I feel obligated. It’s the innocent people being attacked — the kids. It’s the kids, man. I just can’t stand by.” Chase, a graduate student in Virginia, said that he volunteered to fight the Islamic State group in Syria in 2019 and felt the same urgency for Ukraine, but he warned against simply going to the border without a plan. In Syria, he said he knew well-meaning volunteers who were detained for weeks by local Kurdish authorities because they arrived unannounced. He arranged with Kurdish defense forces before arriving in Syria. There he spent months as a humble foot soldier with little pay and only basic rations. Tactically, as an inexperienced grunt, he said, he was of little value. But to the people of northeastern Syria, he was a powerful symbol that the world was with them. “I was a sign to them that the world was watching and they mattered,” he said. A few months into his time in Syria, he was shot in the leg and eventually returned to the United States. He came home and worked for a septic tank company, then got a job writing about used cars. When he saw explosions hitting Ukraine this past week, the part of him that went to war three years ago reawakened. “Everything here is just kind of empty, and it doesn’t seem like I’m doing anything important,” he said in an interview from an extended-stay hotel in Virginia where he is living. “So I am trying to go. I don’t think I have a choice. You have to draw the line.”

‘I just can’t stand by’: American veterans join the fight in Ukraine

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<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has survived at least three alleged assassination attempts in the last week, The Times reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wagner group and Chechen special forces are the two different outfits that have been sent to kill Zelensky.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wagner group is backed by Kremlin and Chechen special forces have the support of Kadyrovites paramilitary organisation that is aiding Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/this-is-ukraines-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-power-plant-the-largest-nuke-power-plant-in-europe-targetted-by-russia-458806">Significance of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia NPP, the largest nuke power plant in Europe targetted by Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>However, their attempts to assassinate the Ukrainian president were foiled as both have been thwarted by "anti-war elements within Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB)," the report added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similar reports were published in Washington Post as well as it reported that an alleged assassination plot against Zelensky was thwarted last weekend.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The media outlet cited a Ukrainian security leader, who noted that the Chechen special forces behind the plot had been "eliminated."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to escalate and reached a dangerous level as on Friday (Match 4), fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces resulted in a fire at Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which is the largest nuke power plant in Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fire was put out but the plant was later seized by the Russian military.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-is-the-chain-of-command-for-potential-russian-nuclear-strikes-458854">What is the chain of command for potential Russian nuclear strikes?</a></strong></p>

<p>Russian armed forces are attacking Ukraine as hundreds of people, including children have lost their lives in the conflict so far. The official toll is unknown but the United Nations has recorded at least 752 civilian casualties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Ukrainian presidential adviser said on Friday (March 4) that Zelensky will not make any concessions that could humiliate Ukrainians in their fight for territorial integrity and freedom.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking at a Lviv briefing after the second round of talks with representatives of the Russian Federation Mykhailo Podolyak representing Ukraine at the talks together with David Arakhamia, a senior official of the ruling party, said the negotiators agreed to the need for humanitarian corridors to help civilians escape and to deliver medicines and food to the areas where fighting was the fiercest.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: The tale of two wartime leaders</strong></p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has survived at least three alleged assassination attempts in the last week, The Times reported. Wagner group and Chechen special forces are the two different outfits that have been sent to kill Zelensky. Wagner group is backed by Kremlin and Chechen special forces have the support of Kadyrovites paramilitary organisation that is aiding Russia. IN PICS | Significance of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia NPP, the largest nuke power plant in Europe targetted by Russia However, their attempts to assassinate the Ukrainian president were foiled as both have been thwarted by "anti-war elements within Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB)," the report added. Similar reports were published in Washington Post as well as it reported that an alleged assassination plot against Zelensky was thwarted last weekend. The media outlet cited a Ukrainian security leader, who noted that the Chechen special forces behind the plot had been "eliminated." The Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to escalate and reached a dangerous level as on Friday (Match 4), fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces resulted in a fire at Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which is the largest nuke power plant in Europe. The fire was put out but the plant was later seized by the Russian military. IN PICS | What is the chain of command for potential Russian nuclear strikes? Russian armed forces are attacking Ukraine as hundreds of people, including children have lost their lives in the conflict so far. The official toll is unknown but the United Nations has recorded at least 752 civilian casualties. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian presidential adviser said on Friday (March 4) that Zelensky will not make any concessions that could humiliate Ukrainians in their fight for territorial integrity and freedom. Speaking at a Lviv briefing after the second round of talks with representatives of the Russian Federation Mykhailo Podolyak representing Ukraine at the talks together with David Arakhamia, a senior official of the ruling party, said the negotiators agreed to the need for humanitarian corridors to help civilians escape and to deliver medicines and food to the areas where fighting was the fiercest. WATCH | Gravitas: The tale of two wartime leaders ×

Russia-Ukraine conflict: At least 3 plots to 'assassinate Ukrainian President Zelensky foiled' in last week

<p>Amid heightened tensions in eastern Europe, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (March 4) reacted sharply to the decision of NATO to reject the no-fly zone over Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky said that the alliance had given Russia the green light to continue relentless attacks and bombing on the Ukrainian cities, that has killed hundreds of civilians, including children and led to massive migration of people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a televised address on Friday, Zelensky said, "Today there was a NATO summit, a weak summit, a confused summit, a summit where it was clear that not everyone considers the battle for Europe's freedom to be the number one goal."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today, the leadership of the alliance gave the green light for further bombing of Ukrainian cities and villages, having refused to set up a no-fly zone," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-at-least-three-plots-to-assassinate-ukrainian-president-zelensky-foiled-say-reports-459114">At least three plots to assassinate Ukrainian President Zelensky foiled, say reports</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia invaded Ukraine by land, sea and air after President Vladimir Putin ordered "military operations" on February 24. Zelensky had appealed to NATO to set up a no-fly zone over Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, on Friday, NATO rejected Ukraine's call to help it protect its skies from Russian missiles and warplanes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia has shelled residential areas and civilian infrastructure, as well as captured two nuclear sites.</p>

<p>While the West condemned Putin, members of the 30-strong NATO are bound to defend each other in case of attack and are wary of sinking into a war with nuclear-armed Russia. The EU threatened more sanctions but it was not clear what it could do.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/this-is-ukraines-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-power-plant-the-largest-nuke-power-plant-in-europe-targetted-by-russia-458806">Significance of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia NPP, the largest nuke power plant in Europe targetted by Russia</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: WION Ground Report from Lviv</strong></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Amid heightened tensions in eastern Europe, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (March 4) reacted sharply to the decision of NATO to reject the no-fly zone over Ukraine.

Amid heightened tensions in eastern Europe, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (March 4) reacted sharply to the decision of NATO to reject the no-fly zone over Ukraine. Zelensky said that the alliance had given Russia the green light to continue relentless attacks and bombing on the Ukrainian cities, that has killed hundreds of civilians, including children and led to massive migration of people. During a televised address on Friday, Zelensky said, "Today there was a NATO summit, a weak summit, a confused summit, a summit where it was clear that not everyone considers the battle for Europe's freedom to be the number one goal." "Today, the leadership of the alliance gave the green light for further bombing of Ukrainian cities and villages, having refused to set up a no-fly zone," he added. ALSO READ | At least three plots to assassinate Ukrainian President Zelensky foiled, say reports Russia invaded Ukraine by land, sea and air after President Vladimir Putin ordered "military operations" on February 24. Zelensky had appealed to NATO to set up a no-fly zone over Ukraine. However, on Friday, NATO rejected Ukraine's call to help it protect its skies from Russian missiles and warplanes. Russia has shelled residential areas and civilian infrastructure, as well as captured two nuclear sites. While the West condemned Putin, members of the 30-strong NATO are bound to defend each other in case of attack and are wary of sinking into a war with nuclear-armed Russia. The EU threatened more sanctions but it was not clear what it could do. IN PICS | Significance of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia NPP, the largest nuke power plant in Europe targetted by Russia WATCH | Gravitas: WION Ground Report from Lviv × (With inputs from agencies)

'Green light for bombing': Zelensky lashes out at NATO for ruling out Ukraine no-fly zone

What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks

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<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p>In a shocking video, a blogger in Ukraine's second-largest city of Kharkiv can be seen running for his life when his video recording was interrupted by an airstrike that hit near him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The blogger named Nikita Demenkov recorded a video message for his followers to inform them about donations they had sent but the video also captured a missile exploding above him on Wednesday (March 2).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the viral clip that has been posted on his Instagram account in which he was seen seeking refuge in a basement after the explosion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-intensifies-crackdown-on-fake-reports-blocks-twitter-facebook-459123">Russia intensifies crackdown on 'fake' reports, blocks Twitter, Facebook &nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CamaC3moSf1/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Nikita Demenkov (@nikita__demenkov)</a></p>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/green-light-for-bombing-zelensky-lashes-out-at-nato-for-ruling-out-ukraine-no-fly-zone-459118">'Green light for bombing': Zelensky lashes out at NATO for ruling out Ukraine no-fly zone</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Russia declared a partial ceasefire on Saturday (March 5) to allow humanitarian corridors out of the Ukrainian cities of Mariupol and Volnovakha, Russia's defence ministry said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"From 1000 am Moscow time (0700 GMT), the Russian side declares a ceasefire and the opening of humanitarian corridors to allow civilians to leave Mariupol and Volnovakha," Russian news agencies quoted the Russian defence ministry as saying.&nbsp;</p>


Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. In a shocking video, a blogger in Ukraine's second-largest city of Kharkiv can be seen running for his life when his video recording was interrupted by an airstrike that hit near him. The blogger named Nikita Demenkov recorded a video message for his followers to inform them about donations they had sent but the video also captured a missile exploding above him on Wednesday (March 2). In the viral clip that has been posted on his Instagram account in which he was seen seeking refuge in a basement after the explosion. ALSO READ | Russia intensifies crackdown on 'fake' reports, blocks Twitter, Facebook 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 Nikita Demenkov (@nikita__demenkov) × ALSO READ | 'Green light for bombing': Zelensky lashes out at NATO for ruling out Ukraine no-fly zone Meanwhile, Russia declared a partial ceasefire on Saturday (March 5) to allow humanitarian corridors out of the Ukrainian cities of Mariupol and Volnovakha, Russia's defence ministry said. "From 1000 am Moscow time (0700 GMT), the Russian side declares a ceasefire and the opening of humanitarian corridors to allow civilians to leave Mariupol and Volnovakha," Russian news agencies quoted the Russian defence ministry as saying.

Watch: Missile interrupted Kharkiv blogger's live recording during Russia-Ukraine conflict

<p><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></p>

<p>In the midst of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, a surge in 'Deepfake' videos are being used to spread misinformation against Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The sudden surge in such videos has put US authorities on alert.</p>

<p>Apparently, a Russian propaganda campaign called 'Ukraine Today' is using fake accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to promote fake news about the war, according to a report in The Guardian.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/please-use-with-caution-elon-musk-warns-that-starlink-can-be-targeted-by-russia-advises-caution-458726" hreflang="en">'Please use with caution': Elon Musk warns that starlink can be 'targeted' by Russia, advises caution</a></strong></p>

<p>Officials from US intelligence agencies are monitoring video and audio for manipulation that might result in misinformation.</p>

<p>Reports from Fox News state that the FBI is continuing its fight against illegal deepfakes as the technology improves.</p>

<p>"Audio, video, text and images that are created to show something that didn't necessarily happen, or never occurred," FBI Cyber Division Unit Chief Pranav Shah was quoted as stating in the report.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-shelling-sets-largest-nuclear-power-plant-in-europe-on-fire-says-ukraines-minister-458728" hreflang="en">Russian shelling sets largest nuclear power plant in Europe on fire, says Ukraine's minister</a></strong></p>

<p>Several fake profiles, posing as pro-Russian Ukrainians have been removed from Facebook and Twitter, according to the report.</p>

<p>Deepfakes are being used by influence operations with ties to Russia and Belarus to spread disinformation against Ukraine.</p>

<p>Video forgeries known as deep fakes make people seem to say things they never said, such as the viral forged video of Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and the forged video of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.</p>

<p>Over the weekend, Facebook and Twitter removed two anti-Ukraine "covert influence operations." One of them had ties with Russia and the other with Belarus.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Nuclear war: Putin's threat or rhetoric? Who has how many nuclear warheads?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nuclear-war-putins-threat-or-rhetoric-who-has-how-many-nuclear-warheads-458729/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In recent years, deepfakes have become so convincing that it is difficult to differentiate between them and the real thing.</p>

<p>In a study cited last week by AI News, researchers concluded that humans can no longer distinguish between real and AI-generated "deepfake" faces.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. In the midst of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, a surge in 'Deepfake' videos are being used to spread misinformation against Ukraine. The sudden surge in such videos has put US authorities on alert. Apparently, a Russian propaganda campaign called 'Ukraine Today' is using fake accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to promote fake news about the war, according to a report in The Guardian. Also read | 'Please use with caution': Elon Musk warns that starlink can be 'targeted' by Russia, advises caution Officials from US intelligence agencies are monitoring video and audio for manipulation that might result in misinformation. Reports from Fox News state that the FBI is continuing its fight against illegal deepfakes as the technology improves. "Audio, video, text and images that are created to show something that didn't necessarily happen, or never occurred," FBI Cyber Division Unit Chief Pranav Shah was quoted as stating in the report. Also read | Russian shelling sets largest nuclear power plant in Europe on fire, says Ukraine's minister Several fake profiles, posing as pro-Russian Ukrainians have been removed from Facebook and Twitter, according to the report. Deepfakes are being used by influence operations with ties to Russia and Belarus to spread disinformation against Ukraine. Video forgeries known as deep fakes make people seem to say things they never said, such as the viral forged video of Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and the forged video of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Over the weekend, Facebook and Twitter removed two anti-Ukraine "covert influence operations." One of them had ties with Russia and the other with Belarus. Watch | Nuclear war: Putin's threat or rhetoric? Who has how many nuclear warheads? In recent years, deepfakes have become so convincing that it is difficult to differentiate between them and the real thing. In a study cited last week by AI News, researchers concluded that humans can no longer distinguish between real and AI-generated "deepfake" faces. (With inputs from agencies)

Digital weaponry: Russia using deepfakes to spread misinformation against Ukraine, claims report

Ukraine under attack: Here's how Ukrainian sports stars joining fight against Russia

<p>Even as Russia lies in financial meltdown due to crippling Western sanctions imposed after Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, wealthy Russians are 'panic buying' luxury jewellery and watches that will likely have a high resale value.</p>

<p>As the rouble value continues to fall, many of Russia's wealthy have sought to invest in luxury jewellery and watches; goods that are likely to have a high resale value.</p>

<p>Similar to gold, the prices of designer jewels and watches can hold and even increase in some cases following economic turmoil caused by war and conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-day-9-zelensky-accuses-russia-of-nuclear-terror-trying-to-repeat-the-chernobyl-disaster-458768" hreflang="en">Ukraine crisis day 9: Zelensky accuses Russia of "nuclear terror", trying to "repeat" the Chernobyl disaster</a></strong></p>

<p>Following the imposition of western sanctions, many&nbsp;of the world's largest companies such as Apple, Nike, Shell, and BP pulled out of Russia. However, luxury European brands remained and have reported an increase in sales.</p>

<p>During the last few days, Bulgari's jewellery sales increased at its Russian stores following the issuance of international sanctions against Putin to restrict the movement of cash.</p>

<p>Selected Russian banks were disconnected from SWIFT financial messaging services after Putin invaded Ukraine, restricting the movement of cash even more.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/please-use-with-caution-elon-musk-warns-that-starlink-can-be-targeted-by-russia-advises-caution-458726" hreflang="en">'Please use with caution': Elon Musk warns that starlink can be 'targeted' by Russia, advises caution</a></strong></p>

<p>In an interview with Bloomberg, Jean-Christophe Babin, Bulgari's chief executive, said the move probably boosted business and characterized Bulgari's jewellery as a 'safe investment.</p>

<p>Along with Bulgari, other luxury brands such as Cartier, Rolex and Swatch's Omega watches are available in the country.</p>

<p>During early trading, the currency plunged 30 per cent before easing back to 20 per cent down. Its collapse could wipe out the savings of ordinary Russians, many of whom have been seen flocking to ATMs throughout the country to empty their accounts.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia trade restrictions: Nike, Ikea close stores in Russia</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-trade-restrictions-nike-ikea-close-stores-in-russia-458783/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The US cut off the Russian central bank this week in a fresh round of sanctions that effectively bans Americans from doing business with it and significantly limits Russia's ability to defend its currency. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, the US imposed sanctions on the state investment fund, with an official claiming Joe Biden's intent was to ensure that the Russian economy &nbsp;'goes backward as long as Putin goes forward with his invasion of Ukraine'.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Even as Russia lies in financial meltdown due to crippling Western sanctions imposed after Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, wealthy Russians are 'panic buying' luxury jewellery and watches that will likely have a high resale value.

Even as Russia lies in financial meltdown due to crippling Western sanctions imposed after Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, wealthy Russians are 'panic buying' luxury jewellery and watches that will likely have a high resale value. As the rouble value continues to fall, many of Russia's wealthy have sought to invest in luxury jewellery and watches; goods that are likely to have a high resale value. Similar to gold, the prices of designer jewels and watches can hold and even increase in some cases following economic turmoil caused by war and conflict. Also read | Ukraine crisis day 9: Zelensky accuses Russia of "nuclear terror", trying to "repeat" the Chernobyl disaster Following the imposition of western sanctions, many of the world's largest companies such as Apple, Nike, Shell, and BP pulled out of Russia. However, luxury European brands remained and have reported an increase in sales. During the last few days, Bulgari's jewellery sales increased at its Russian stores following the issuance of international sanctions against Putin to restrict the movement of cash. Selected Russian banks were disconnected from SWIFT financial messaging services after Putin invaded Ukraine, restricting the movement of cash even more. Also read | 'Please use with caution': Elon Musk warns that starlink can be 'targeted' by Russia, advises caution In an interview with Bloomberg, Jean-Christophe Babin, Bulgari's chief executive, said the move probably boosted business and characterized Bulgari's jewellery as a 'safe investment. Along with Bulgari, other luxury brands such as Cartier, Rolex and Swatch's Omega watches are available in the country. During early trading, the currency plunged 30 per cent before easing back to 20 per cent down. Its collapse could wipe out the savings of ordinary Russians, many of whom have been seen flocking to ATMs throughout the country to empty their accounts. Watch | Russia trade restrictions: Nike, Ikea close stores in Russia The US cut off the Russian central bank this week in a fresh round of sanctions that effectively bans Americans from doing business with it and significantly limits Russia's ability to defend its currency. Additionally, the US imposed sanctions on the state investment fund, with an official claiming Joe Biden's intent was to ensure that the Russian economy 'goes backward as long as Putin goes forward with his invasion of Ukraine'. (With inputs from agencies)

Even as Ukraine suffers, luxury brands in Russia see sales rise as country’s rich panic-buy jewellery, watches

<p>Hundreds of Indian students stranded in the Ukrainian city of Sumy have said that it's only getting worse every passing day. On Thursday night (March 3), students of Sumy State University witnessed an airstrike, very close to their hostel premises.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"People were crying, many even fainted. It's getting difficult to handle our friends," said Faisal Ansari, a fourth-year medical student.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
While speaking to WION, Mahek Shaikh, a first-year student said, "We were sitting in our rooms when we heard jets pass by. Our room lights started flickering and soon electricity and water supply went off. The entire city blacked out. We were immediately alerted to move to the bunkers."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/russia-ukraine-conflict-another-indian-student-shot-in-kyiv-hospitalised-458752">Russia-Ukraine conflict: Another Indian student shot in Kyiv, hospitalised</a></strong></p>

<p>"We learnt that the bomb was dropped close to our university. A few friends, who could see the university building from their window, saw the blast," the 18-year-old added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Friday, as news of the fire at Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant broke, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba tweeted, "The Russian army is firing from all sides upon Zaporizhzhia NPP, the largest nuclear power plant in Europe."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "Fire has already broken out. If it blows up, it will be 10 times larger than Chernobyl! Russians must IMMEDIATELY cease the fire, allow firefighters, establish a security zone!"&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/this-is-ukraines-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-power-plant-the-largest-nuke-power-plant-in-europe-targetted-by-russia-458806">This is Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia NPP, the largest nuke power plant in Europe targetted by Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>As they await evacuation, students are running low on food supply. They say grocery stores in the locality are running empty, and even if they manage to find food, payment has now become an issue.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"Supermarkets only accept cash and banks are closed, ATMs are out of money," Ansari added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There are about 700 students from the university waiting for evacuation. The city is located in the north-eastern region of Ukraine and is closer to the Russian border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's conversation with Russian President Putin, there are talks of a possible evacuation from the Russian side. But this is yet to be formally announced.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After students of Kharkiv received an advisory from the embassy in Ukraine, those in Sumy are waiting for their turn.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine-Russia end round 2 of talks: Agreement reached on Humanitarian corridor</strong></p>

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Hundreds of Indian students stranded in the Ukrainian city of Sumy have said that it's only getting worse every passing day. On Thursday night (March 3), students of Sumy State University witnessed an airstrike, very close to their hostel premises.

Hundreds of Indian students stranded in the Ukrainian city of Sumy have said that it's only getting worse every passing day. On Thursday night (March 3), students of Sumy State University witnessed an airstrike, very close to their hostel premises. "People were crying, many even fainted. It's getting difficult to handle our friends," said Faisal Ansari, a fourth-year medical student. While speaking to WION, Mahek Shaikh, a first-year student said, "We were sitting in our rooms when we heard jets pass by. Our room lights started flickering and soon electricity and water supply went off. The entire city blacked out. We were immediately alerted to move to the bunkers." ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Another Indian student shot in Kyiv, hospitalised "We learnt that the bomb was dropped close to our university. A few friends, who could see the university building from their window, saw the blast," the 18-year-old added. On Friday, as news of the fire at Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant broke, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba tweeted, "The Russian army is firing from all sides upon Zaporizhzhia NPP, the largest nuclear power plant in Europe." He added, "Fire has already broken out. If it blows up, it will be 10 times larger than Chernobyl! Russians must IMMEDIATELY cease the fire, allow firefighters, establish a security zone!" IN PICS | This is Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia NPP, the largest nuke power plant in Europe targetted by Russia As they await evacuation, students are running low on food supply. They say grocery stores in the locality are running empty, and even if they manage to find food, payment has now become an issue. "Supermarkets only accept cash and banks are closed, ATMs are out of money," Ansari added. There are about 700 students from the university waiting for evacuation. The city is located in the north-eastern region of Ukraine and is closer to the Russian border. After Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's conversation with Russian President Putin, there are talks of a possible evacuation from the Russian side. But this is yet to be formally announced. After students of Kharkiv received an advisory from the embassy in Ukraine, those in Sumy are waiting for their turn. WATCH | Ukraine-Russia end round 2 of talks: Agreement reached on Humanitarian corridor ×

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Airstrike near hostel as Indian students in Ukraine spend harrowing night in bunker

<p>From a huge Russian military convoy snaking its way to Kyiv to missile strikes and refugee&nbsp;crossings,&nbsp;commercial&nbsp;satellite&nbsp;imagery of the&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;conflict&nbsp;is helping lift the fog of war, illuminating for the public what was previously the domain of spy agencies.</p>

<p>Technologies that can pierce cloud cover and work at night are also coming to the fore, as a growing army of open-source intelligence analysts offer near real-time assessments of battleground developments.</p>

<p>"Governments are no longer the only place to go for high precision&nbsp;satellite&nbsp;data," Craig Nazareth, a former US intelligence officer turned scholar at the University of Arizona, told AFP.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-sniper-killed-russias-top-general-say-reports-458776">Ukrainian sniper killed Russia's top general, say reports</a></strong></p>

<p>Thanks to the explosive growth of the private&nbsp;satellite&nbsp;industry, the volume of imagery is greater and turnaround time faster compared to prior conflicts, such as Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea.</p>

<p>While most Western governments have their own sophisticated&nbsp;satellite&nbsp;assets, their classified nature means the images can't be shared.</p>

<p>And with public trust in the US and British governments shaken after the 2003 Iraq war, third-party imagery has helped plug credibility gaps.</p>

<p>"They're saying 'Look, it's not us, this is actually happening, we're not making this up," Nazareth said.</p>

<p>Beyond helping shape narratives, the images are directly aiding Ukrainian forces in their war efforts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-day-9-zelensky-accuses-russia-of-nuclear-terror-trying-to-repeat-the-chernobyl-disaster-458768">Ukraine crisis day 9: Zelensky accuses Russia of "nuclear terror", trying to "repeat" the Chernobyl disaster</a></strong></p>

<p>"Capella Space is working directly with the US and Ukrainian governments as well as other&nbsp;commercial&nbsp;entities to provide timely data and assistance around the ongoing&nbsp;conflict," Payam Banazadeh, the company's CEO confirmed in a statement to AFP.</p>

<p><strong>Radar imagery</strong></p>

<p>It was images taken by the San Francisco startup that led a group of independent researchers to realize the invasion was underway, before Vladimir Putin announced his "special military operations" in the early morning of February 24.</p>

<p>Hours before that speech, Jeffrey Lewis of the Middlebury Institute in California tweeted that Google Maps showed a "traffic jam" on the road from Belgorod, Russia to the Ukrainian border.</p>

<p>It was the precise spot Capella Space previously saw a convoy of military vehicles, and the congestion likely reflected Russian civilians getting stuck at roadblocks while military vehicles passed.</p>

<p>"Someone's on the move," he correctly hypothesised.</p>

<p>While most&nbsp;satellite&nbsp;imaging requires daylight and clear skies to capture images, Capella Space works with synthetic aperture radar (SAR) -- in which sensors shoot down energy, then record the amount that reflects back to them.</p>

<p>SAR "penetrates clouds and smoke, even in very large storm events or fires, so we can reliably capture clear and precise images of the Earth under almost any conditions," said Dan Getman, the company's vice president of product.</p>

<p>Another company whose pictures have been used heavily by news media is BlackSky, which released what it believes was among the first engagements of the war -- an attack on the Luhansk Thermal Power Station a little after 4:00 pm local time on February 23.</p>

<p>"We have a constellation of small&nbsp;satellites&nbsp;that can see dawn to dusk, not just at certain times of the day" the company's CEO Brian O'Toole told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/digital-weaponry-russia-using-deepfakes-to-spread-misinformation-against-ukraine-claims-report-458746">Digital weaponry: Russia using deepfakes to spread misinformation against Ukraine, claims report</a></strong></p>

<p>In traditional polar orbits, which fly north-south, a&nbsp;satellite&nbsp;could take only two snaps of a particular spot per day -- but BlackSky flies its hardware counter-clockwise to the planet's rotation, allowing them to revisit areas more often.</p>

<p>Clients receive the images within 90 minutes and are helped in interpreting them by AI-enabled software.</p>

<p><strong>Future ethical concerns?</strong></p>

<p>Perhaps the most grabbing image of the&nbsp;conflict&nbsp;so far has been a picture of the 40 miles (64 km) long Russian convoy, captured by Maxar, "the granddaddy of the industry," according to Chris Quilty, of Quilty Analytics.</p>

<p>He explained that, unlike traditional&nbsp;satellites&nbsp;that only point downwards, Maxar's&nbsp;satellites&nbsp;have gyroscopes that allow them to swivel and target with more precision.</p>

<p>The US government, through the National Reconnaissance Office, is one of Maxar's main clients, dictating "shutter time," which helps explain why the company and others are spending so much time over&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;right now.</p>

<p>But the selective release of what the&nbsp;satellites&nbsp;are seeing could eventually lead to ethical concerns.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine Conflict: Decoding Thursday's biggest developments</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-conflict-decoding-thursdays-biggest-developments-458717/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Maxar and others "are inevitably capturing imagery of Ukrainian troop movements and defensive positions and that information is not being released to the public," said Quilty.</p>

<p>Looking ahead to future conflicts, "There is absolutely an ability to color the narrative depending upon what imagery is made available," he said.</p>


From a huge Russian military convoy snaking its way to Kyiv to missile strikes and refugee crossings, commercial satellite imagery of the Ukraine conflict is helping lift the fog of war, illuminating for the public what was previously the domain of spy agencies.

From a huge Russian military convoy snaking its way to Kyiv to missile strikes and refugee crossings, commercial satellite imagery of the Ukraine conflict is helping lift the fog of war, illuminating for the public what was previously the domain of spy agencies. Technologies that can pierce cloud cover and work at night are also coming to the fore, as a growing army of open-source intelligence analysts offer near real-time assessments of battleground developments. "Governments are no longer the only place to go for high precision satellite data," Craig Nazareth, a former US intelligence officer turned scholar at the University of Arizona, told AFP. Also read | Ukrainian sniper killed Russia's top general, say reports Thanks to the explosive growth of the private satellite industry, the volume of imagery is greater and turnaround time faster compared to prior conflicts, such as Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea. While most Western governments have their own sophisticated satellite assets, their classified nature means the images can't be shared. And with public trust in the US and British governments shaken after the 2003 Iraq war, third-party imagery has helped plug credibility gaps. "They're saying 'Look, it's not us, this is actually happening, we're not making this up," Nazareth said. Beyond helping shape narratives, the images are directly aiding Ukrainian forces in their war efforts. Also read | Ukraine crisis day 9: Zelensky accuses Russia of "nuclear terror", trying to "repeat" the Chernobyl disaster "Capella Space is working directly with the US and Ukrainian governments as well as other commercial entities to provide timely data and assistance around the ongoing conflict," Payam Banazadeh, the company's CEO confirmed in a statement to AFP. Radar imagery It was images taken by the San Francisco startup that led a group of independent researchers to realize the invasion was underway, before Vladimir Putin announced his "special military operations" in the early morning of February 24. Hours before that speech, Jeffrey Lewis of the Middlebury Institute in California tweeted that Google Maps showed a "traffic jam" on the road from Belgorod, Russia to the Ukrainian border. It was the precise spot Capella Space previously saw a convoy of military vehicles, and the congestion likely reflected Russian civilians getting stuck at roadblocks while military vehicles passed. "Someone's on the move," he correctly hypothesised. While most satellite imaging requires daylight and clear skies to capture images, Capella Space works with synthetic aperture radar (SAR) -- in which sensors shoot down energy, then record the amount that reflects back to them. SAR "penetrates clouds and smoke, even in very large storm events or fires, so we can reliably capture clear and precise images of the Earth under almost any conditions," said Dan Getman, the company's vice president of product. Another company whose pictures have been used heavily by news media is BlackSky, which released what it believes was among the first engagements of the war -- an attack on the Luhansk Thermal Power Station a little after 4:00 pm local time on February 23. "We have a constellation of small satellites that can see dawn to dusk, not just at certain times of the day" the company's CEO Brian O'Toole told AFP. Also read | Digital weaponry: Russia using deepfakes to spread misinformation against Ukraine, claims report In traditional polar orbits, which fly north-south, a satellite could take only two snaps of a particular spot per day -- but BlackSky flies its hardware counter-clockwise to the planet's rotation, allowing them to revisit areas more often. Clients receive the images within 90 minutes and are helped in interpreting them by AI-enabled software. Future ethical concerns? Perhaps the most grabbing image of the conflict so far has been a picture of the 40 miles (64 km) long Russian convoy, captured by Maxar, "the granddaddy of the industry," according to Chris Quilty, of Quilty Analytics. He explained that, unlike traditional satellites that only point downwards, Maxar's satellites have gyroscopes that allow them to swivel and target with more precision. The US government, through the National Reconnaissance Office, is one of Maxar's main clients, dictating "shutter time," which helps explain why the company and others are spending so much time over Ukraine right now. But the selective release of what the satellites are seeing could eventually lead to ethical concerns. Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine Conflict: Decoding Thursday's biggest developments Maxar and others "are inevitably capturing imagery of Ukrainian troop movements and defensive positions and that information is not being released to the public," said Quilty. Looking ahead to future conflicts, "There is absolutely an ability to color the narrative depending upon what imagery is made available," he said.

This is how commercial satellites are shaping the Ukraine conflict

<p>Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday accused Russian forces of resorting to "nuclear terror" and attempting to "repeat" the Chernobyl disaster after invading Russian forces attacked a nuclear power plant.</p>

<p>As Europe's largest nuclear plant caught fire after it was shelled, he urged world leaders to wake up and act before Europe dies "from a nuclear disaster".</p>

<p>"No country other than Russia has ever fired on nuclear power units," he said in a video message released by his office. "This is the first time in our history. In the history of mankind. The terrorist state now resorted to nuclear terror."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-shelling-sets-largest-nuclear-power-plant-in-europe-on-fire-says-ukraines-minister-458728">Russian shelling sets largest nuclear power plant in Europe on fire, says Ukraine's minister</a></strong></p>

<p>The nuclear power plant in Zaporizhzhia supplies 40 per cent of Ukraine's nuclear energy and houses six of the country's 15 reactors.</p>

<p>Kyiv says the fire started after Russian troops fired on the facility.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These are tanks equipped with thermal imagers, so they know where they are shooting," said Zelensky.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the station's "essential" equipment was not affected and radiation levels were normal, local officials told the UN's atomic watchdog.</p>

<p>Earlier Ukrainian emergency services in a Facebook post had said that "the invaders are not authorising Ukrainian public rescue units to begin extinguishing the fire."</p>

<p>They were eventually able to gain access.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/please-use-with-caution-elon-musk-warns-that-starlink-can-be-targeted-by-russia-advises-caution-458726">'Please use with caution': Elon Musk warns that starlink can be 'targeted' by Russia, advises caution</a></strong></p>

<p>"As of 05:20 at the Zaporizhzhia NPP in Energodar, State Emergency Service units went to put out the fire in the training building," the state emergency services wrote on Facebook, noting that 40 people and 10 vehicles were involved in the operation.</p>

<p>Since Russia invaded Ukraine last week and began bombarding cities with shells and missiles, Ukraine's nuclear facilities have become a major concern.</p>

<p>"If there is an explosion, it is the end of everything. The end of Europe," Zelensky said. "Only immediate European action can stop Russian troops."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;What is the road ahead for Ukraine? The Russian invasion of Ukraine enters day 9</strong></p>

<p><strong><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-is-the-road-ahead-for-ukraine-the-russian-invasion-of-ukraine-enters-day-9-458748/embed" width="560"></iframe></strong></p>

<p>Following the attack on a Ukrainian nuclear power plant by invading Russian forces, Boris Johnson also accused Vladimir Putin of putting all of Europe at risk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Prime Minister said the reckless actions of President Putin could now directly threaten the safety of all of Europe," according to a Downing Street statement, adding that Johnson will seek an emergency UN Security Council meeting in the coming hours.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday accused Russian forces of resorting to "nuclear terror" and attempting to "repeat" the Chernobyl disaster after invading Russian forces attacked a nuclear power plant.

Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday accused Russian forces of resorting to "nuclear terror" and attempting to "repeat" the Chernobyl disaster after invading Russian forces attacked a nuclear power plant. As Europe's largest nuclear plant caught fire after it was shelled, he urged world leaders to wake up and act before Europe dies "from a nuclear disaster". "No country other than Russia has ever fired on nuclear power units," he said in a video message released by his office. "This is the first time in our history. In the history of mankind. The terrorist state now resorted to nuclear terror." Also read | Russian shelling sets largest nuclear power plant in Europe on fire, says Ukraine's minister The nuclear power plant in Zaporizhzhia supplies 40 per cent of Ukraine's nuclear energy and houses six of the country's 15 reactors. Kyiv says the fire started after Russian troops fired on the facility. "These are tanks equipped with thermal imagers, so they know where they are shooting," said Zelensky. However, the station's "essential" equipment was not affected and radiation levels were normal, local officials told the UN's atomic watchdog. Earlier Ukrainian emergency services in a Facebook post had said that "the invaders are not authorising Ukrainian public rescue units to begin extinguishing the fire." They were eventually able to gain access. Also read | 'Please use with caution': Elon Musk warns that starlink can be 'targeted' by Russia, advises caution "As of 05:20 at the Zaporizhzhia NPP in Energodar, State Emergency Service units went to put out the fire in the training building," the state emergency services wrote on Facebook, noting that 40 people and 10 vehicles were involved in the operation. Since Russia invaded Ukraine last week and began bombarding cities with shells and missiles, Ukraine's nuclear facilities have become a major concern. "If there is an explosion, it is the end of everything. The end of Europe," Zelensky said. "Only immediate European action can stop Russian troops." Watch | What is the road ahead for Ukraine? The Russian invasion of Ukraine enters day 9 Following the attack on a Ukrainian nuclear power plant by invading Russian forces, Boris Johnson also accused Vladimir Putin of putting all of Europe at risk. "The Prime Minister said the reckless actions of President Putin could now directly threaten the safety of all of Europe," according to a Downing Street statement, adding that Johnson will seek an emergency UN Security Council meeting in the coming hours. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine crisis day 9: Zelensky accuses Russia of "nuclear terror", trying to "repeat" the Chernobyl disaster

<p>China has reacted to the accusations that it asked Russia to delay its invasion of Ukraine until after the recently concluded Beijing Winter Olympics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday (March 2), a &nbsp;US-based paper The New York Times reported that Chinese officials had asked senior Russian officials not to invade Ukraine before the end of the Winter Olympics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To validate the accusation, the paper cited senior officials in the administration of United States President Joe Biden as well as a European official.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-is-this-vladimir-putins-next-massive-plan-458569?UTM_SRC=breakingnews">Russia-Ukraine conflict: Is this Vladimir Putin's next massive plan?</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the report, China might have had some level of direct knowledge about Russia's war plans or intentions before the invasion started on February 24 after Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered "military operations" in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The invasion started last week just four days after the Beijing Winter Olympics' closing ceremony as eyebrows are raised whether or not the reports are true.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, on being asked about the same at a press briefing on Thursday (March 3), Beijing dismissed the report. "The New York Times report is complete fake news. These kinds of diversionary, blame-shifting remarks are thoroughly despicable," said foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/constructive-conversation-quad-leaders-discuss-ukraine-situation-458750">'Constructive conversation': Quad leaders discuss Ukraine situation</a></strong></p>

<p>On the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Beijing has taken a neutral stance and President Xi Jinping held a meeting last month with his Russian counterpart where the pair agreed to a "no limits" partnership.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since then, Beijing has not condemned the invasion of Ukraine but has stopped short of outright support.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China was among 35 countries that abstained, while just five - Eritrea, North Korea, Syria, Belarus and Russia - voted against it.</p>

<p>The conflict has caused more than one million people to flee Ukraine, according to the United Nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Russia, Belarus out of Winter Paralympics amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine</strong></p>

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China has reacted to the accusations that it asked Russia to delay its invasion of Ukraine until after the recently concluded Beijing Winter Olympics. On Wednesday (March 2), a US-based paper The New York Times reported that Chinese officials had asked senior Russian officials not to invade Ukraine before the end of the Winter Olympics.

China has reacted to the accusations that it asked Russia to delay its invasion of Ukraine until after the recently concluded Beijing Winter Olympics. On Wednesday (March 2), a US-based paper The New York Times reported that Chinese officials had asked senior Russian officials not to invade Ukraine before the end of the Winter Olympics. To validate the accusation, the paper cited senior officials in the administration of United States President Joe Biden as well as a European official. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Is this Vladimir Putin's next massive plan? As per the report, China might have had some level of direct knowledge about Russia's war plans or intentions before the invasion started on February 24 after Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered "military operations" in Ukraine. The invasion started last week just four days after the Beijing Winter Olympics' closing ceremony as eyebrows are raised whether or not the reports are true. Meanwhile, on being asked about the same at a press briefing on Thursday (March 3), Beijing dismissed the report. "The New York Times report is complete fake news. These kinds of diversionary, blame-shifting remarks are thoroughly despicable," said foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin. ALSO READ | 'Constructive conversation': Quad leaders discuss Ukraine situation On the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Beijing has taken a neutral stance and President Xi Jinping held a meeting last month with his Russian counterpart where the pair agreed to a "no limits" partnership. Since then, Beijing has not condemned the invasion of Ukraine but has stopped short of outright support. China was among 35 countries that abstained, while just five - Eritrea, North Korea, Syria, Belarus and Russia - voted against it. The conflict has caused more than one million people to flee Ukraine, according to the United Nations. WATCH | Russia, Belarus out of Winter Paralympics amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine ×

China reacts to accusations that it asked Russia to stall Ukraine attack till after Winter Olympics

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<p>What if a tragedy similar to the Chernobyl disaster happens again in the near future, during the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine?&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Chernobyl disaster was a nuclear accident that occurred on April 26 in 1986. The accident happened at the No. 4 reactor in the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, which was near the city of Pripyat in the north of the Ukrainian SSR in the Soviet Union.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The tragedy was the result of a flawed reactor design that was apparently operated with inadequately trained personnel. The scale of destruction was massive and the accident is considered the worst nuclear disaster in history, both in terms of cost and casualties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports have stated that two Chernobyl plant workers died due to the explosion on the night of the accident. In the aftermath, 28 people died within a few weeks as a result of acute radiation syndrome.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation,&nbsp;apart from some 5000 thyroid cancers (resulting in 15 fatalities), "there is no evidence of a major public health impact attributable to radiation exposure 20 years after the accident."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fear of another nuclear disaster raised alarm from global leaders when fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces on Friday (March 4) resulted in a fire at Europe's largest nuclear power plant in southern Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/this-is-ukraines-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-power-plant-the-largest-nuke-power-plant-in-europe-targetted-by-russia-458806">Significance of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia NPP, the largest nuke power plant in Europe targetted by Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>Ukrainian emergency services said the fire had been extinguished but the plant was later seized by the Russian military.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The escalation of the conflict to nuclear threat is itself a matter of contemplation for the global leaders. Also to analyse what's Russian President Vladimir Putin planning next.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A nuclear expert told news agency Reuters that warfare near nuclear power plants is a "recipe for disaster."</p>

<p>If so, why did Putin's army attack the site?&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maria Rost Rublee, an expert in nuclear politics at Melbourne's Monash University said, "Unfortunately, we could be quite close to a catastrophe when you have active military operations, including shelling, missiles."</p>

<p>"When you have active nuclear power plants, it's just a recipe for disaster and all it takes is one missile that goes off," Rublee added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Well, the way this Russian invasion has panned out, it's not that easy to understand what's going inside the mind of the Russian leader. Here are some of his evident demands:&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>What does Putin want?</strong></p>

<p>Putin said that the invasion of Ukraine aims to disarm it and sever its ties to the NATO military alliance. Putin also stated that he wants to get rid of a "gang of drug addicts and neo-Nazis that has settled in Kyiv and taken hostage the entire Ukrainian people".&nbsp;</p>

<p>It looks like he wants to establish a loyalist regime in Ukraine led by a Russian.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-is-the-chain-of-command-for-potential-russian-nuclear-strikes-458854">What is the chain of command for potential Russian nuclear strikes?</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Is he bluffing?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Western media had reported citing US intelligence officials that Putin's behaviour is an elaborate bluff, which means he is acting the part of the "madman" in order to confuse and disconcert the West.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But recent relentless missile attacks and bombings since he announced "military operations" in Ukraine, that caused massive loss of life and refugee crisis, is not a bluff.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>What are Putin's territorial goals?</strong></p>

<p>During a phone call between Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron on March 3, the Russian leader said that he is committed to taking full control of Ukraine and "neutralising" the country. After the phone call, Macron warned that "the worst is yet to come."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia will strike at the information warfare and psychological operations centre of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and technological facilities of the Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) in Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Will sanctions stop the invasion?</strong></p>

<p>Putin's actions led to global condemnation as several countries imposed sanctions on Moscow to cripple its economy and isolate it from the world. On one hand, the sanctions have impacted the Russian economy massively but the invasion continues to escalate.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>What if Ukraine falls?</strong></p>

<p>Although Ukraine has resisted Russian armed forces, but if Russia succeeds then the world will again face geopolitical tensions and militarisation the one witnessed during the Cold War the entire invasion episode might end up being one of the darkest chapters on modern European history.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Here's a timeline of events since Putin ordered Russian invasion of Ukraine</strong></p>

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What if a tragedy similar to the Chernobyl disaster happens again in the near future, during the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine? The Chernobyl disaster was a nuclear accident that occurred on April 26 in 1986.

What if a tragedy similar to the Chernobyl disaster happens again in the near future, during the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine? The Chernobyl disaster was a nuclear accident that occurred on April 26 in 1986. The accident happened at the No. 4 reactor in the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, which was near the city of Pripyat in the north of the Ukrainian SSR in the Soviet Union. The tragedy was the result of a flawed reactor design that was apparently operated with inadequately trained personnel. The scale of destruction was massive and the accident is considered the worst nuclear disaster in history, both in terms of cost and casualties. Reports have stated that two Chernobyl plant workers died due to the explosion on the night of the accident. In the aftermath, 28 people died within a few weeks as a result of acute radiation syndrome. As per the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation, apart from some 5000 thyroid cancers (resulting in 15 fatalities), "there is no evidence of a major public health impact attributable to radiation exposure 20 years after the accident." The fear of another nuclear disaster raised alarm from global leaders when fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces on Friday (March 4) resulted in a fire at Europe's largest nuclear power plant in southern Ukraine. IN PICS | Significance of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia NPP, the largest nuke power plant in Europe targetted by Russia Ukrainian emergency services said the fire had been extinguished but the plant was later seized by the Russian military. The escalation of the conflict to nuclear threat is itself a matter of contemplation for the global leaders. Also to analyse what's Russian President Vladimir Putin planning next. A nuclear expert told news agency Reuters that warfare near nuclear power plants is a "recipe for disaster." If so, why did Putin's army attack the site? Maria Rost Rublee, an expert in nuclear politics at Melbourne's Monash University said, "Unfortunately, we could be quite close to a catastrophe when you have active military operations, including shelling, missiles." "When you have active nuclear power plants, it's just a recipe for disaster and all it takes is one missile that goes off," Rublee added. Well, the way this Russian invasion has panned out, it's not that easy to understand what's going inside the mind of the Russian leader. Here are some of his evident demands: What does Putin want? Putin said that the invasion of Ukraine aims to disarm it and sever its ties to the NATO military alliance. Putin also stated that he wants to get rid of a "gang of drug addicts and neo-Nazis that has settled in Kyiv and taken hostage the entire Ukrainian people". It looks like he wants to establish a loyalist regime in Ukraine led by a Russian. IN PICS | What is the chain of command for potential Russian nuclear strikes? Is he bluffing? Western media had reported citing US intelligence officials that Putin's behaviour is an elaborate bluff, which means he is acting the part of the "madman" in order to confuse and disconcert the West. But recent relentless missile attacks and bombings since he announced "military operations" in Ukraine, that caused massive loss of life and refugee crisis, is not a bluff. What are Putin's territorial goals? During a phone call between Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron on March 3, the Russian leader said that he is committed to taking full control of Ukraine and "neutralising" the country. After the phone call, Macron warned that "the worst is yet to come." Russia will strike at the information warfare and psychological operations centre of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and technological facilities of the Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) in Kyiv. Will sanctions stop the invasion? Putin's actions led to global condemnation as several countries imposed sanctions on Moscow to cripple its economy and isolate it from the world. On one hand, the sanctions have impacted the Russian economy massively but the invasion continues to escalate. What if Ukraine falls? Although Ukraine has resisted Russian armed forces, but if Russia succeeds then the world will again face geopolitical tensions and militarisation the one witnessed during the Cold War the entire invasion episode might end up being one of the darkest chapters on modern European history. WATCH | Here's a timeline of events since Putin ordered Russian invasion of Ukraine ×

Ukraine under attack: Decoding the psyche of Russian president Vladimir Putin

<p>Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX, warned that his company's Starlink satellite broadband service could be the next "target" of Russian aggression in Ukraine.</p>

<p>The warning follows one by an internet security researcher who warned that&nbsp;satellite communication devices could serve as "beacons" that Russia could target for airstrikes.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-invasion-elon-musk-activates-starlink-internet-service-after-request-from-an-official-457100">Ukraine invasion: Elon Musk activates Starlink internet service after request from an official</a></strong></p>

<p>"Important warning: Starlink is the only non-Russian communications system still working in some parts of Ukraine, so probability of being targeted is high. Please use with caution," Musk tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Important warning: Starlink is the only non-Russian communications system still working in some parts of Ukraine, so probability of being targeted is high. Please use with caution.</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1499472139333746691?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>He asked users to "turn on Starlink only when needed and place antenna away as far away from people as possible" and "place light camouflage over antenna to avoid visual detection."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Turn on Starlink only when needed and place antenna away as far away from people as possible</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1499473384367079429?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Musk said Saturday that Starlink was now active in Ukraine and that SpaceX was sending more stations after a Ukrainian government official tweeted asking Musk to provide the embattled country with Starlink stations.</p>

<p>It was reported Monday that Ukraine had received donated satellite internet, terminals from Starlink, but an internet security researcher warned these could be targeted by the Russians.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russia-ukraine-crisis-where-the-refugees-are-escaping-to-458490" hreflang="en">Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Where the refugees are escaping to?</a></strong></p>

<p>"...if #Putin controls the air above #Ukraine, users' uplink transmissions become beacons ... for airstrikes," John Scott-Railton, a senior researcher at the University of Toronto's Citizen Lab project, tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Re: <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a>'s starlink donation.<br />
<br />
Good to see.<br />
<br />
But remember: if <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Putin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Putin</a> controls the air above <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a>, users' uplink transmissions become beacons... for airstrikes.<br />
<br />
Some background 1/ <a href="https://t.co/0p6J87TtUF">pic.twitter.com/0p6J87TtUF</a></p>
— John Scott-Railton (@jsrailton) <a href="https://twitter.com/jsrailton/status/1497745011932286979?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>"#Russia has decades of experience hitting people by targeting their satellite communications," he added in a series of 15 tweets detailing the risks.</p>

<p>Vice Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov thanks Starlink for&nbsp;"keeping our cities connected and emergency services saving lives!". However, he added, that due to Russian attacks on infrastructure, the country needs generators to maintain Starlink's service.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Risk of a nuclear disaster in Ukraine</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-risk-of-a-nuclear-disaster-in-ukraine-458711/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In response, Musk said SpaceX would update its software to reduce peak power consumption so that Starlink could be charged from a car's cigarette lighter.</p>

<p>"Mobile roaming enabled, so phased array antenna can maintain signal while on moving vehicle," he said.</p>

<p>In their first sign of progress since the invasion, which Moscow calls a "special operation," Russia and Ukraine have agreed that humanitarian corridors and possibly a ceasefire around them are needed for fleeing civilians.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX, warned that his company's Starlink satellite broadband service could be the next "target" of Russian aggression in Ukraine. The warning follows one by an internet security researcher who warned that satellite communication devices could serve as "beacons" that Russia could target for airstrikes.

Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX, warned that his company's Starlink satellite broadband service could be the next "target" of Russian aggression in Ukraine. The warning follows one by an internet security researcher who warned that satellite communication devices could serve as "beacons" that Russia could target for airstrikes. Also read | Ukraine invasion: Elon Musk activates Starlink internet service after request from an official "Important warning: Starlink is the only non-Russian communications system still working in some parts of Ukraine, so probability of being targeted is high. Please use with caution," Musk tweeted. Important warning: Starlink is the only non-Russian communications system still working in some parts of Ukraine, so probability of being targeted is high. Please use with caution. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 3, 2022 × He asked users to "turn on Starlink only when needed and place antenna away as far away from people as possible" and "place light camouflage over antenna to avoid visual detection." Turn on Starlink only when needed and place antenna away as far away from people as possible — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 3, 2022 × Musk said Saturday that Starlink was now active in Ukraine and that SpaceX was sending more stations after a Ukrainian government official tweeted asking Musk to provide the embattled country with Starlink stations. It was reported Monday that Ukraine had received donated satellite internet, terminals from Starlink, but an internet security researcher warned these could be targeted by the Russians. Also read | Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Where the refugees are escaping to? "...if #Putin controls the air above #Ukraine, users' uplink transmissions become beacons ... for airstrikes," John Scott-Railton, a senior researcher at the University of Toronto's Citizen Lab project, tweeted. Re: @elonmusk's starlink donation. Good to see. But remember: if #Putin controls the air above #Ukraine, users' uplink transmissions become beacons... for airstrikes. Some background 1/ pic.twitter.com/0p6J87TtUF — John Scott-Railton (@jsrailton) February 27, 2022 × "#Russia has decades of experience hitting people by targeting their satellite communications," he added in a series of 15 tweets detailing the risks. Vice Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov thanks Starlink for "keeping our cities connected and emergency services saving lives!". However, he added, that due to Russian attacks on infrastructure, the country needs generators to maintain Starlink's service. Watch | Gravitas: Risk of a nuclear disaster in Ukraine In response, Musk said SpaceX would update its software to reduce peak power consumption so that Starlink could be charged from a car's cigarette lighter. "Mobile roaming enabled, so phased array antenna can maintain signal while on moving vehicle," he said. In their first sign of progress since the invasion, which Moscow calls a "special operation," Russia and Ukraine have agreed that humanitarian corridors and possibly a ceasefire around them are needed for fleeing civilians. (With inputs from agencies)

'Please use with caution': Elon Musk warns that starlink can be 'targeted' by Russia, advises caution

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p>Amid the ongoing Russia and Ukraine conflict, an Indian student has been hospitalised after he was shot in the capital city of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The student has been identified as&nbsp;Harjot Singh, who said as quoted by ANI: "No support from the Indian embassy yet. I have been trying to get in touch with them, every day they say we will do something but no help yet."&nbsp;</p>

<p>While responding to his video, India's ministry of external affairs noted that the government of India "will be bearing expenses for Harjot Singh's medical treatment" (in Kyiv, Ukraine).</p>

<p>"We are trying to ascertain his medical status... Our embassy is trying to get an update on his health status...trying to reach out but facing trouble as it's a conflict zone," the ministry added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A few days ago, an Indian student lost his life as the&nbsp;situation continues to escalate after Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered "military operations" in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Indian government has been evacuating its citizen from war-torn Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-discusses-ukraine-situation-with-quad-leaders-458707">PM Modi discusses Ukraine situation with Quad leaders</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> "No support from the Indian embassy yet. I have been trying to get in touch with them, every day they say we will do something but no help yet," says Harjot Singh, an Indian who sustained multiple bullet injuries in war-torn Ukraine, receiving treatment at a Kyiv hospital <a href="https://t.co/8oc9urO74s">pic.twitter.com/8oc9urO74s</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1499705696925122561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Minister of State (MoS) for Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) General VK Singh revealed the information to ANI at Poland's Rzeszow airport on Thursday (March 3).&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A student from Kyiv was reported to have been shot and was immediately admitted to the hospital in Kyiv," General (retd) Singh said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Indian embassy had earlier cleared on the priority that everyone should leave Kyiv. In the event of war, the gun bullet does not look at anyone's religion and nationality," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/polish-varsities-to-help-indian-students-from-ukraine-complete-their-studies-minister-vk-singh-458678">Polish varsities to help Indian students from Ukraine complete their studies: Minister VK Singh</a></strong></p>

<p>The students are currently fleeing Ukraine and trying to reach the border of Poland for their safe return to India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Four Union Ministers, Hardeep Singh Puri, Jyotiraditya M Scindia, Kiren Rijiju and Gen (Retd) VK Singh - are overseeing the evacuation efforts in the countries adjoining Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Zelensky asks Putin for direct talks as invasion enters day 9</strong></p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Amid the ongoing Russia and Ukraine conflict, an Indian student has been hospitalised after he was shot in the capital city of Ukraine. The student has been identified as Harjot Singh, who said as quoted by ANI: "No support from the Indian embassy yet. I have been trying to get in touch with them, every day they say we will do something but no help yet." While responding to his video, India's ministry of external affairs noted that the government of India "will be bearing expenses for Harjot Singh's medical treatment" (in Kyiv, Ukraine). "We are trying to ascertain his medical status... Our embassy is trying to get an update on his health status...trying to reach out but facing trouble as it's a conflict zone," the ministry added. A few days ago, an Indian student lost his life as the situation continues to escalate after Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered "military operations" in Ukraine. Meanwhile, the Indian government has been evacuating its citizen from war-torn Ukraine. ALSO READ | PM Modi discusses Ukraine situation with Quad leaders #WATCH "No support from the Indian embassy yet. I have been trying to get in touch with them, every day they say we will do something but no help yet," says Harjot Singh, an Indian who sustained multiple bullet injuries in war-torn Ukraine, receiving treatment at a Kyiv hospital pic.twitter.com/8oc9urO74s — ANI (@ANI) March 4, 2022 × Minister of State (MoS) for Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) General VK Singh revealed the information to ANI at Poland's Rzeszow airport on Thursday (March 3). "A student from Kyiv was reported to have been shot and was immediately admitted to the hospital in Kyiv," General (retd) Singh said. "The Indian embassy had earlier cleared on the priority that everyone should leave Kyiv. In the event of war, the gun bullet does not look at anyone's religion and nationality," he added. ALSO READ | Polish varsities to help Indian students from Ukraine complete their studies: Minister VK Singh The students are currently fleeing Ukraine and trying to reach the border of Poland for their safe return to India. Four Union Ministers, Hardeep Singh Puri, Jyotiraditya M Scindia, Kiren Rijiju and Gen (Retd) VK Singh - are overseeing the evacuation efforts in the countries adjoining Ukraine. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Zelensky asks Putin for direct talks as invasion enters day 9 ×

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Indian student shot in Kyiv, hospitalised - Video

<p>Senior White House officials designing the strategy to confront Russia have begun quietly debating a new concern: that the avalanche of sanctions directed at Moscow, which has gained speed faster than they imagined, is cornering President Vladimir Putin and may prompt him to lash out, perhaps expanding the conflict beyond Ukraine.</p>

<p>In Situation Room meetings in recent days, the issue has come up repeatedly, according to three officials. Putin’s tendency, U.S. intelligence officials have told the White House and Congress, is to double down when he feels trapped by his own overreach. So they have described a series of possible reactions, ranging from indiscriminate shelling of Ukrainian cities to compensate for the early mistakes made by his invading force, to cyberattacks directed at the U.S. financial system, to more nuclear threats and perhaps moves to take the war beyond Ukraine’s borders.</p>

<p>The debate over Putin’s next moves is linked to an urgent reexamination by intelligence agencies of the Russian leader’s mental state, and whether his ambitions and appetite for risk have been altered by two years of COVID-19 isolation.</p>

<p>Those concerns accelerated after Putin’s order Sunday to place the country’s strategic nuclear weapons on a “combat ready” alert to respond to the West’s “aggressive comments.” (In the ensuing days, however, national security officials say they have seen little evidence on the ground that Russia’s nuclear forces have actually moved to a different state of readiness.)</p>

<p>It was a sign of the depth of U.S. concern that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced Wednesday that he was canceling a previously scheduled Minuteman nuclear missile test to avoid escalating direct challenges to Moscow or giving Putin an excuse to once again invoke the power of the country’s nuclear arsenal.</p>

<p>“We did not take this decision lightly, but instead, to demonstrate that we are a responsible nuclear power,” Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said Wednesday. “We recognize at this moment of tension how critical it is that both the United States and Russia bear in mind the risk of miscalculation, and take steps to reduce those risks.”</p>

<p>Nonetheless, Putin’s reaction to the initial wave of sanctions has provoked a range of concerns that one senior official called the “Cornered Putin Problem.” Those concerns center on a series of recent announcements: the pullout of oil companies like Exxon and Shell from developing Russia’s oil fields, the moves against Russia’s central bank that sent the ruble plunging, and Germany’s surprise announcement that it would drop its ban on sending lethal weapons to Ukrainian forces and ramp up its military spending.</p>

<p>But beyond canceling the missile test, there is no evidence that the United States is considering steps to reduce tensions, and a senior official said there was no interest in backing off sanctions.</p>

<p>“Quite the contrary,’’ said the official, who, like other U.S. officials interviewed for this story, asked for anonymity to discuss the internal debates among Biden’s advisers.</p>

<p>In fact, President Joe Biden announced expanded sanctions Thursday, aimed at Russia’s oligarch class. Many of those named — including Dmitry Peskov, Putin’s spokesperson and one of his close advisers — rank among his most influential defenders and the beneficiaries of the system he has created.</p>

<p>Biden, reading a statement and taking no questions, said the sanctions have had “a profound impact already.”</p>

<p>A few hours after he spoke, S&amp;P dropped Russia’s credit rating to CCC-, the credit rating agency said in a statement. That is far below the junk bond levels Russia was ranked at a few days after the invasion and just two notches above a warning that the country was going into default.</p>

<p>It suggested that Putin’s effort to “sanctions-proof” his economy had largely failed. And at least for now, there is no discernible off-ramp for the Russian leader short of declaring a cease-fire or pulling back his forces — steps he has so far shown no interest in taking.</p>

<p>At a news briefing at the White House on Thursday afternoon, press secretary Jen Psaki said that she knew of no efforts to show Putin a way out. “I think right in this moment, they are marching toward Kyiv with a convoy and continuing to take reportedly barbaric steps against the people of Ukraine. So now is not the moment where we are offering options for reducing sanctions.”</p>

<p>Yet a senior State Department official, asked about the debates inside the administration on the risks ahead, said there were nuances in the administration’s approach that point to possible outs for the Russian leader.</p>

<p>Biden’s policy, the official said, was not one of seeking regime change in Russia. The idea, he said, was to influence Putin’s actions, not his grip on power. And the sanctions, the official noted, were designed not as a punishment, but as leverage to end the war. They will escalate if Putin escalates, the official said. But the administration would calibrate its sanctions, and perhaps reduce them, if Putin begins to de-escalate.</p>

<p>And the official said that because Putin has now exerted such control over Russian media, closing down the last vestiges of independent news organizations, he could spin some kind of de-escalation into a victory.</p>

<p>Yet that hope collides with the assessments of Putin’s instincts, many of which are based on open, unclassified observations.</p>

<p>CIA Director William Burns was an early advocate of the view that the Russian leader planned to invade and was not massing troops around Ukraine simply to gain leverage in some kind of bargaining game.</p>

<p>“I would never underestimate President Putin’s risk appetite on Ukraine,” Burns, a former U.S. ambassador to Moscow, who has dealt with Putin for more than two decades, said in December.</p>

<p>Putin’s views on Ukraine are fiercely held. He seems unlikely to accept any result that does not achieve his goal of bringing Ukraine closer to the Russian fold. And, especially after the Russian military’s poor performance in the first week of the war, he may be concerned that any whiff of failure could weaken his hold on power.</p>

<p>Putin’s strategy in coming weeks, some other U.S. officials have warned in closed meetings since the crisis accelerated, could be to redirect the conflict toward Washington, hoping to distract from the Russian forces’ attacks on civilians in Ukraine and rouse a nationalistic response to the actions of a longtime adversary.</p>

<p>If Putin wants to strike at the U.S. financial system, as Biden has struck at his, he has only one significant pathway in: his well-trained army of hackers and an adjacent group of criminal ransomware operators, some of whom have publicly pledged to help him in his battle.</p>

<p>Tatyana Bolton, the policy director for cybersecurity and emerging threats at the R Street Institute, expressed confidence Thursday that the financial industry was ready.</p>

<p>“The JPMorgans of the world spend more on cybersecurity than many government agencies,’’ said Bolton, a former senior official in the Department of Homeland Security whose family emigrated from Russia.</p>

<p>But she was concerned about the possibility that Putin would finally activate “pre-positioned malware in the energy sector as a means of getting back at the United States.”</p>

<p>Members of Congress have also raised concerns that Putin could unleash Moscow’s network of criminal hackers, who have conducted ransomware attacks that have shut down hospitals, meat processing plants and the Colonial Pipeline network that carried nearly half of the gasoline, diesel and jet fuel on the East Coast.</p>

<p>“If the situation escalates further, I think we are going to see Russian cyberattacks against our critical infrastructure,” said Rep. Mike Gallagher, R-Wis., a member of the House Intelligence Committee who was co-chair of an influential cyberspace commission.</p>

<p>Another possibility is that Putin will threaten to push farther into Moldova or Georgia, which, like Ukraine, are not members of NATO — and thus territory that the U.S. and NATO forces would not enter. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is making Moldova one of his stops on a reassurance tour that began Thursday.</p>

<p>There are larger worries, involving potential nuclear threats. On Sunday, as the fighting accelerated, Belarus passed a referendum that amended its constitution to allow for nuclear weapons to be based, once again, on its territory. U.S. officials are expecting that President Alexander Lukashenko may well ask Putin to place tactical weapons in his country, where they would be closer to European capitals. And Putin has shown, twice this week, that he is ready to remind the world of the powers of his arsenal.</p>

<p>But the next move for Putin is likely to further intensify his operations in Ukraine, which would almost certainly result in more civilian casualties and destruction.</p>

<p>“It wasn’t a cakewalk for Putin, and now he has no choice but to double down,” said Beth Sanner, a former top intelligence official. “This is what autocrats do. You cannot walk away or you look weak.”</p>


Senior White House officials designing the strategy to confront Russia have begun quietly debating a new concern: that the avalanche of sanctions directed at Moscow, which has gained speed faster than they imagined, is cornering President Vladimir Putin and may prompt him to lash out, perhaps expanding the conflict beyond Ukraine.

Senior White House officials designing the strategy to confront Russia have begun quietly debating a new concern: that the avalanche of sanctions directed at Moscow, which has gained speed faster than they imagined, is cornering President Vladimir Putin and may prompt him to lash out, perhaps expanding the conflict beyond Ukraine. In Situation Room meetings in recent days, the issue has come up repeatedly, according to three officials. Putin’s tendency, U.S. intelligence officials have told the White House and Congress, is to double down when he feels trapped by his own overreach. So they have described a series of possible reactions, ranging from indiscriminate shelling of Ukrainian cities to compensate for the early mistakes made by his invading force, to cyberattacks directed at the U.S. financial system, to more nuclear threats and perhaps moves to take the war beyond Ukraine’s borders. The debate over Putin’s next moves is linked to an urgent reexamination by intelligence agencies of the Russian leader’s mental state, and whether his ambitions and appetite for risk have been altered by two years of COVID-19 isolation. Those concerns accelerated after Putin’s order Sunday to place the country’s strategic nuclear weapons on a “combat ready” alert to respond to the West’s “aggressive comments.” (In the ensuing days, however, national security officials say they have seen little evidence on the ground that Russia’s nuclear forces have actually moved to a different state of readiness.) It was a sign of the depth of U.S. concern that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced Wednesday that he was canceling a previously scheduled Minuteman nuclear missile test to avoid escalating direct challenges to Moscow or giving Putin an excuse to once again invoke the power of the country’s nuclear arsenal. “We did not take this decision lightly, but instead, to demonstrate that we are a responsible nuclear power,” Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said Wednesday. “We recognize at this moment of tension how critical it is that both the United States and Russia bear in mind the risk of miscalculation, and take steps to reduce those risks.” Nonetheless, Putin’s reaction to the initial wave of sanctions has provoked a range of concerns that one senior official called the “Cornered Putin Problem.” Those concerns center on a series of recent announcements: the pullout of oil companies like Exxon and Shell from developing Russia’s oil fields, the moves against Russia’s central bank that sent the ruble plunging, and Germany’s surprise announcement that it would drop its ban on sending lethal weapons to Ukrainian forces and ramp up its military spending. But beyond canceling the missile test, there is no evidence that the United States is considering steps to reduce tensions, and a senior official said there was no interest in backing off sanctions. “Quite the contrary,’’ said the official, who, like other U.S. officials interviewed for this story, asked for anonymity to discuss the internal debates among Biden’s advisers. In fact, President Joe Biden announced expanded sanctions Thursday, aimed at Russia’s oligarch class. Many of those named — including Dmitry Peskov, Putin’s spokesperson and one of his close advisers — rank among his most influential defenders and the beneficiaries of the system he has created. Biden, reading a statement and taking no questions, said the sanctions have had “a profound impact already.” A few hours after he spoke, S&P dropped Russia’s credit rating to CCC-, the credit rating agency said in a statement. That is far below the junk bond levels Russia was ranked at a few days after the invasion and just two notches above a warning that the country was going into default. It suggested that Putin’s effort to “sanctions-proof” his economy had largely failed. And at least for now, there is no discernible off-ramp for the Russian leader short of declaring a cease-fire or pulling back his forces — steps he has so far shown no interest in taking. At a news briefing at the White House on Thursday afternoon, press secretary Jen Psaki said that she knew of no efforts to show Putin a way out. “I think right in this moment, they are marching toward Kyiv with a convoy and continuing to take reportedly barbaric steps against the people of Ukraine. So now is not the moment where we are offering options for reducing sanctions.” Yet a senior State Department official, asked about the debates inside the administration on the risks ahead, said there were nuances in the administration’s approach that point to possible outs for the Russian leader. Biden’s policy, the official said, was not one of seeking regime change in Russia. The idea, he said, was to influence Putin’s actions, not his grip on power. And the sanctions, the official noted, were designed not as a punishment, but as leverage to end the war. They will escalate if Putin escalates, the official said. But the administration would calibrate its sanctions, and perhaps reduce them, if Putin begins to de-escalate. And the official said that because Putin has now exerted such control over Russian media, closing down the last vestiges of independent news organizations, he could spin some kind of de-escalation into a victory. Yet that hope collides with the assessments of Putin’s instincts, many of which are based on open, unclassified observations. CIA Director William Burns was an early advocate of the view that the Russian leader planned to invade and was not massing troops around Ukraine simply to gain leverage in some kind of bargaining game. “I would never underestimate President Putin’s risk appetite on Ukraine,” Burns, a former U.S. ambassador to Moscow, who has dealt with Putin for more than two decades, said in December. Putin’s views on Ukraine are fiercely held. He seems unlikely to accept any result that does not achieve his goal of bringing Ukraine closer to the Russian fold. And, especially after the Russian military’s poor performance in the first week of the war, he may be concerned that any whiff of failure could weaken his hold on power. Putin’s strategy in coming weeks, some other U.S. officials have warned in closed meetings since the crisis accelerated, could be to redirect the conflict toward Washington, hoping to distract from the Russian forces’ attacks on civilians in Ukraine and rouse a nationalistic response to the actions of a longtime adversary. If Putin wants to strike at the U.S. financial system, as Biden has struck at his, he has only one significant pathway in: his well-trained army of hackers and an adjacent group of criminal ransomware operators, some of whom have publicly pledged to help him in his battle. Tatyana Bolton, the policy director for cybersecurity and emerging threats at the R Street Institute, expressed confidence Thursday that the financial industry was ready. “The JPMorgans of the world spend more on cybersecurity than many government agencies,’’ said Bolton, a former senior official in the Department of Homeland Security whose family emigrated from Russia. But she was concerned about the possibility that Putin would finally activate “pre-positioned malware in the energy sector as a means of getting back at the United States.” Members of Congress have also raised concerns that Putin could unleash Moscow’s network of criminal hackers, who have conducted ransomware attacks that have shut down hospitals, meat processing plants and the Colonial Pipeline network that carried nearly half of the gasoline, diesel and jet fuel on the East Coast. “If the situation escalates further, I think we are going to see Russian cyberattacks against our critical infrastructure,” said Rep. Mike Gallagher, R-Wis., a member of the House Intelligence Committee who was co-chair of an influential cyberspace commission. Another possibility is that Putin will threaten to push farther into Moldova or Georgia, which, like Ukraine, are not members of NATO — and thus territory that the U.S. and NATO forces would not enter. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is making Moldova one of his stops on a reassurance tour that began Thursday. There are larger worries, involving potential nuclear threats. On Sunday, as the fighting accelerated, Belarus passed a referendum that amended its constitution to allow for nuclear weapons to be based, once again, on its territory. U.S. officials are expecting that President Alexander Lukashenko may well ask Putin to place tactical weapons in his country, where they would be closer to European capitals. And Putin has shown, twice this week, that he is ready to remind the world of the powers of his arsenal. But the next move for Putin is likely to further intensify his operations in Ukraine, which would almost certainly result in more civilian casualties and destruction. “It wasn’t a cakewalk for Putin, and now he has no choice but to double down,” said Beth Sanner, a former top intelligence official. “This is what autocrats do. You cannot walk away or you look weak.”

Washington’s newest worry: The dangers of cornering Putin

Ukraine-Russia conflict: Here are the top Russian oligarchs hit with EU sanctions

Significance of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia NPP, the largest nuke power plant in Europe targetted by Russia

<p>In response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Federation Internationale Feline (FIFe), which is an international cat fancier society, has imposed restrictions on cats bred in Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These restrictions imposed by FIFe are valid until May 31 and will be reviewed as and when necessary. In a statement, the NGO noted that it is "shocked and horrified" that the Russian army invaded Ukraine and "started a war". &nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, "Many innocent people died, many more are wounded and hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians are forced to flee their homes to save their lives. We can all witness the destruction and chaos caused by this unprecedented act of aggression."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iafs-evacuation-flights-with-798-indians-land-at-hindon-airbase-pm-modi-monitoring-developments-458411">IAF's evacuation flights with 798 Indians land at Hindon airbase, PM Modi monitoring developments</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the organisation, no cat bred in Russia may be imported and registered in any FIFe pedigree book outside Russia, regardless of, which organization issued its pedigree.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement added, "No cat belonging to exhibitors living in Russia may be entered at any FIFe show outside Russia, regardless of, which organization these exhibitors hold their membership in."&nbsp;</p>

<p>FIFe also stated that it will dedicate a part of its budget to support cat breeders and fanciers in Ukraine who are suffering because of the current situation, the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-ukraine-attempts-to-embarrass-moscow-invites-russian-mums-to-collect-captured-sons-458383">Ukraine attempts to embarrass Moscow, invites Russian mums to collect captured sons</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the war-like situation continues to escalate as the latest development suggested that Russian troops were in the centre of the Ukrainian port of Kherson on Thursday (March 3). &nbsp;</p>

<p>When Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the "military operations" on February 24, several countries including the UK, the US, Canada, along with the European Union have imposed sanctions on Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US interest rate hike likely in March: Powell testified before US Congress</strong></p>

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In response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Federation Internationale Feline (FIFe), which is an international cat fancier society, has imposed restrictions on cats bred in Russia.

In response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Federation Internationale Feline (FIFe), which is an international cat fancier society, has imposed restrictions on cats bred in Russia. These restrictions imposed by FIFe are valid until May 31 and will be reviewed as and when necessary. In a statement, the NGO noted that it is "shocked and horrified" that the Russian army invaded Ukraine and "started a war". It added, "Many innocent people died, many more are wounded and hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians are forced to flee their homes to save their lives. We can all witness the destruction and chaos caused by this unprecedented act of aggression." ALSO READ | IAF's evacuation flights with 798 Indians land at Hindon airbase, PM Modi monitoring developments As per the organisation, no cat bred in Russia may be imported and registered in any FIFe pedigree book outside Russia, regardless of, which organization issued its pedigree. The statement added, "No cat belonging to exhibitors living in Russia may be entered at any FIFe show outside Russia, regardless of, which organization these exhibitors hold their membership in." FIFe also stated that it will dedicate a part of its budget to support cat breeders and fanciers in Ukraine who are suffering because of the current situation, the statement added. ALSO READ | Ukraine attempts to embarrass Moscow, invites Russian mums to collect captured sons Meanwhile, the war-like situation continues to escalate as the latest development suggested that Russian troops were in the centre of the Ukrainian port of Kherson on Thursday (March 3). When Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the "military operations" on February 24, several countries including the UK, the US, Canada, along with the European Union have imposed sanctions on Moscow. WATCH | US interest rate hike likely in March: Powell testified before US Congress ×

Ukraine crisis: Here's how Russian cats are caught in the crossfire

<p>Russian police have detained two women and five children who wanted to lay flowers at the Ukrainian embassy in Moscow.</p>

<p>The children who are between the ages of 7 and 11 were held in a van with their mothers until they were taken to a police station.&nbsp;Alexandra Arkhipova, an anthropologist, says they were released hours later.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/silence-the-gunsnow-world-is-rejecting-russias-lies-heres-how-world-leaders-reacted-to-unga-vote-458355" hreflang="en">'Silence the guns...now', 'world is rejecting Russia’s lies': Here's how world leaders reacted to UNGA vote</a></strong></p>

<p>She identified the two women detained as Ekaterina Zavizion and Olga Alter. The kids accompanying the two women are Sofya Gladkova, 7 years old, Lisa Gladkova 11 years old, Gosha Petrov 11 years old, Matvey Petrov 9 years old and David Petrov 7 years old.</p>

<p>The anthropologist, who works at the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, wrote on Facebook: “Everything that has happened is not stuck in my head.” (Translated from Russian)</p>

<p>Arkhipova has also shared video footage on social media that shows one of the children crying and a woman comforting her.&nbsp;Watch the video here:</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police, according to Arkhipova, threatened to take away the children's custody from the two women. A trial and a fine await them on unspecified charges, she added.</p>

<p>&nbsp;“The parents are in fear.”</p>

<p><img alt="child in police custody" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ff461154-2586-4672-9d0a-5010eb1711c2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%2812%29_1.jpg" /></p>

<p>A Russian website that tracks protests and arrests, OVD-Info, says children up to 14 years of age cannot be legally held for more than three hours.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-staggering-humanitarian-cost-of-russias-cruellest-day-of-attack-on-ukraine-458341" hreflang="en">The 'staggering' humanitarian cost of Russia's 'cruellest' day of attack on Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>Dmytro Kuleba, Ukrainian foreign minister, shared images of the children and said it was another sign of the toll that the war between Russia and Ukraine is taking on children.</p>

<p>He wrote on Twitter: “Putin is at war with children. In Ukraine, where his missiles hit kindergartens and orphanages, and also in Russia. 7 y.o. David and Sofia, 9 y.o. Matvey, 11 y.o. Gosha and Liza spent this night behind bars in Moscow for their ‘NO TO WAR’ posters.</p>

<p>“This is how scared the man is.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Putin is at war with children. In Ukraine, where his missiles hit kindergartens and orphanages, and also in Russia. 7 y.o. David and Sofia, 9 y.o. Matvey, 11 y.o. Gosha and Liza spent this night behind bars in Moscow for their ‘NO TO WAR’ posters. This is how scared the man is. <a href="https://t.co/eSenU1D5Ut">pic.twitter.com/eSenU1D5Ut</a></p>
— Dmytro Kuleba (@DmytroKuleba) <a href="https://twitter.com/DmytroKuleba/status/1498912341060165635?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>In cities across Russia, thousands of people have defied police threats and protested against the invasion of Ukraine. The authorities have a low tolerance for protests and marches, and those who attend them can suffer serious consequences such as fines, arrests and even incarceration.</p>

<p>More than 320 anti-war protesters have been arrested across 33 Russian cities, according to OVD-Info. Since Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion of Ukraine last Thursday, a total of 6,840 people have been detained.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Russian police have detained two women and five children who wanted to lay flowers at the Ukrainian embassy in Moscow. The children who are between the ages of 7 and 11 were held in a van with their mothers until they were taken to a police station.

Russian police have detained two women and five children who wanted to lay flowers at the Ukrainian embassy in Moscow. The children who are between the ages of 7 and 11 were held in a van with their mothers until they were taken to a police station. Alexandra Arkhipova, an anthropologist, says they were released hours later. Also read | 'Silence the guns...now', 'world is rejecting Russia’s lies': Here's how world leaders reacted to UNGA vote She identified the two women detained as Ekaterina Zavizion and Olga Alter. The kids accompanying the two women are Sofya Gladkova, 7 years old, Lisa Gladkova 11 years old, Gosha Petrov 11 years old, Matvey Petrov 9 years old and David Petrov 7 years old. The anthropologist, who works at the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, wrote on Facebook: “Everything that has happened is not stuck in my head.” (Translated from Russian) Arkhipova has also shared video footage on social media that shows one of the children crying and a woman comforting her. Watch the video here: × The police, according to Arkhipova, threatened to take away the children's custody from the two women. A trial and a fine await them on unspecified charges, she added. “The parents are in fear.” A Russian website that tracks protests and arrests, OVD-Info, says children up to 14 years of age cannot be legally held for more than three hours. Also read | The 'staggering' humanitarian cost of Russia's 'cruellest' day of attack on Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba, Ukrainian foreign minister, shared images of the children and said it was another sign of the toll that the war between Russia and Ukraine is taking on children. He wrote on Twitter: “Putin is at war with children. In Ukraine, where his missiles hit kindergartens and orphanages, and also in Russia. 7 y.o. David and Sofia, 9 y.o. Matvey, 11 y.o. Gosha and Liza spent this night behind bars in Moscow for their ‘NO TO WAR’ posters. “This is how scared the man is.” Putin is at war with children. In Ukraine, where his missiles hit kindergartens and orphanages, and also in Russia. 7 y.o. David and Sofia, 9 y.o. Matvey, 11 y.o. Gosha and Liza spent this night behind bars in Moscow for their ‘NO TO WAR’ posters. This is how scared the man is. pic.twitter.com/eSenU1D5Ut — Dmytro Kuleba (@DmytroKuleba) March 2, 2022 × In cities across Russia, thousands of people have defied police threats and protested against the invasion of Ukraine. The authorities have a low tolerance for protests and marches, and those who attend them can suffer serious consequences such as fines, arrests and even incarceration. More than 320 anti-war protesters have been arrested across 33 Russian cities, according to OVD-Info. Since Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion of Ukraine last Thursday, a total of 6,840 people have been detained.

'Putin is at war with children': Russian police detain 5 children for laying flowers at Ukrainian embassy

<p>India's ministry of external affairs said that the embassy in Ukraine is in "continuous touch" with Indian nationals in Ukraine and also noted that the authorities cooperated while evacuating students from war-torn Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Thursday (March 3), PTI reported quoting sources said the Indian Air Force's four evacuation flights with 798 Indians from the Romanian capital Bucharest, Hungary's Budapest and Polish city Rzeszow landed at the Hindon airbase in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sources also noted that the Union Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt welcomed the students after the IAF's first flight carrying 200 people from Bucharest landed at 1.30am (local time).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-ukraine-attempts-to-embarrass-moscow-invites-russian-mums-to-collect-captured-sons-458383">Ukraine attempts to embarrass Moscow, invites Russian mums to collect captured sons</a></strong></p>

<p>As quoted by India-based news agency ANI, Bhatt said, "We are taking care of every student returning from Ukraine. Our four Union ministers are taking care of every aspect of evacuation operations in different neighbouring countries of Ukraine. Operation Ganga is progressing successfully".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bhatt interacted with the evacuees and said that the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself is monitoring all developments.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Fourth IAF aircraft carrying Indians rescued from Ukraine arrives at Hindan airbase near Delhi; MoS Defence Ajay Bhatt interacts with the evacuees<br />
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I welcome you all on your safe return to our motherland... PM Modi himself is monitoring all developments, he says. <a href="https://t.co/nxQ2X4z9m0">pic.twitter.com/nxQ2X4z9m0</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1499222736987889664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-casus-belli-amid-ukraine-crisis-russia-space-agency-head-says-satellite-hacking-would-justify-war-458357">&nbsp;'A casus belli': Amid Ukraine crisis, Russia space agency head says satellite hacking would justify war</a></strong></p>

<p>Important to note that India has been evacuating its citizens through special flights from Ukraine's western neighbours such as Romania, Hungary and Poland as the Ukrainian airspace has been shut since February 24.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To facilitate the evacuation of Indian nationals, four Indian ministers have gone to Ukraine's western neighbours. Hardeep Singh Puri is in Hungary, Jyotiraditya Scindia is in Romania, Kiren Rijiju is in Slovakia and V K Singh is in Poland.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Indian PM Modi speaks to President Putin, Russians volunteer to evacuate Indians from Ukraine</strong></p>

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India's ministry of external affairs said that the embassy in Ukraine is in "continuous touch" with Indian nationals in Ukraine and also noted that the authorities cooperated while evacuating students from war-torn Ukraine.

India's ministry of external affairs said that the embassy in Ukraine is in "continuous touch" with Indian nationals in Ukraine and also noted that the authorities cooperated while evacuating students from war-torn Ukraine. On Thursday (March 3), PTI reported quoting sources said the Indian Air Force's four evacuation flights with 798 Indians from the Romanian capital Bucharest, Hungary's Budapest and Polish city Rzeszow landed at the Hindon airbase in India. Sources also noted that the Union Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt welcomed the students after the IAF's first flight carrying 200 people from Bucharest landed at 1.30am (local time). ALSO READ | Ukraine attempts to embarrass Moscow, invites Russian mums to collect captured sons As quoted by India-based news agency ANI, Bhatt said, "We are taking care of every student returning from Ukraine. Our four Union ministers are taking care of every aspect of evacuation operations in different neighbouring countries of Ukraine. Operation Ganga is progressing successfully". Bhatt interacted with the evacuees and said that the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself is monitoring all developments. #WATCH Fourth IAF aircraft carrying Indians rescued from Ukraine arrives at Hindan airbase near Delhi; MoS Defence Ajay Bhatt interacts with the evacuees I welcome you all on your safe return to our motherland... PM Modi himself is monitoring all developments, he says. pic.twitter.com/nxQ2X4z9m0 — ANI (@ANI) March 3, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'A casus belli': Amid Ukraine crisis, Russia space agency head says satellite hacking would justify war Important to note that India has been evacuating its citizens through special flights from Ukraine's western neighbours such as Romania, Hungary and Poland as the Ukrainian airspace has been shut since February 24. To facilitate the evacuation of Indian nationals, four Indian ministers have gone to Ukraine's western neighbours. Hardeep Singh Puri is in Hungary, Jyotiraditya Scindia is in Romania, Kiren Rijiju is in Slovakia and V K Singh is in Poland. WATCH | Indian PM Modi speaks to President Putin, Russians volunteer to evacuate Indians from Ukraine ×

IAF's evacuation flights with 798 Indians land at Hindon airbase, PM Modi monitoring developments

<p>The EU's official journal said on Wednesday that seven Russian banks will no longer be part of the SWIFT network. The move is the result of sanctions over Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>SWIFT has also notified that they will be complying with the EU's instructions.</p>

<p>"To this end, in compliance with the legal instruction in &nbsp;EU Council Regulation (EU) 2022/345 of 1 March 2022, we will disconnect seven designated Russian entities (and their designated Russia based subsidiaries) from the SWIFT network. This Regulation requires us to disconnect the identified entities on 12 March 2022, and we will do so accordingly."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-invasion-united-states-treasury-bans-transactions-with-russias-central-bank-457505">Ukraine invasion: United States Treasury bans transactions with Russia’s Central Bank</a></strong></p>

<p>The banks, which have been given 10 days to discontinue SWIFT services, include Russia's second-largest bank, VTB, as well as Bank Otkritie, Novikombank, Promsvyazbank, Bank Rossiya, Sovcombank and VEB.</p>

<p>As a senior EU official explained, the banks on the list were selected based on their connections to the Russian state, with public banks already subject to sanctions following Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014.</p>

<p>"All these banks that we have listed under SWIFT... they are all based on their connection to the state and the implicit connection to the war effort. We have not gone for a blanket ban across the whole banking system," the official said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swift-has-the-power-to-put-russia-on-back-foot-but-what-is-it-actually-456396">‘SWIFT’ has the power to put Russia on back foot. But what is it actually?</a></strong></p>

<p>The list does not include Sberbank, Russia's largest lender, and Gazprombank. This is because these companies handle most of the payments for Russian oil and gas, which EU countries are still buying despite the conflict.</p>

<p>The EU official said it was not possible simply to allow energy-related transactions and exclude others as SWIFT was unable to differentiate between types of payments. The official added that these two banks were nevertheless subject to other measures.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Moscow trying to install puppet regime in Ukraine?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-conflict-moscow-trying-to-install-puppet-regime-in-ukraine-458384/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>On Saturday, the European Union, the United States, Britain, and Canada blocked certain Russian banks from SWIFT, although they did not say which banks would be affected.</p>

<p>There is no clear global rival to SWIFT, a global payments network with over 11,000 members. EU officials said China has established a system, but it remains small, whereas SWIFT is still used for 70 per cent of transfers within Russia despite the existence of a Russian system.</p>

<p>If such systems existed, banks could still transfer funds via workarounds such as faxes and bilateral messaging systems.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The EU's official journal said on Wednesday that seven Russian banks will no longer be part of the SWIFT network. The move is the result of sanctions over Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The EU's official journal said on Wednesday that seven Russian banks will no longer be part of the SWIFT network. The move is the result of sanctions over Russia's invasion of Ukraine. SWIFT has also notified that they will be complying with the EU's instructions. "To this end, in compliance with the legal instruction in EU Council Regulation (EU) 2022/345 of 1 March 2022, we will disconnect seven designated Russian entities (and their designated Russia based subsidiaries) from the SWIFT network. This Regulation requires us to disconnect the identified entities on 12 March 2022, and we will do so accordingly." Also read | Ukraine invasion: United States Treasury bans transactions with Russia’s Central Bank The banks, which have been given 10 days to discontinue SWIFT services, include Russia's second-largest bank, VTB, as well as Bank Otkritie, Novikombank, Promsvyazbank, Bank Rossiya, Sovcombank and VEB. As a senior EU official explained, the banks on the list were selected based on their connections to the Russian state, with public banks already subject to sanctions following Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014. "All these banks that we have listed under SWIFT... they are all based on their connection to the state and the implicit connection to the war effort. We have not gone for a blanket ban across the whole banking system," the official said. Also read | ‘SWIFT’ has the power to put Russia on back foot. But what is it actually? The list does not include Sberbank, Russia's largest lender, and Gazprombank. This is because these companies handle most of the payments for Russian oil and gas, which EU countries are still buying despite the conflict. The EU official said it was not possible simply to allow energy-related transactions and exclude others as SWIFT was unable to differentiate between types of payments. The official added that these two banks were nevertheless subject to other measures. Watch | Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Moscow trying to install puppet regime in Ukraine? On Saturday, the European Union, the United States, Britain, and Canada blocked certain Russian banks from SWIFT, although they did not say which banks would be affected. There is no clear global rival to SWIFT, a global payments network with over 11,000 members. EU officials said China has established a system, but it remains small, whereas SWIFT is still used for 70 per cent of transfers within Russia despite the existence of a Russian system. If such systems existed, banks could still transfer funds via workarounds such as faxes and bilateral messaging systems. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine Crisis Day 8: SWIFT says will comply with EU instructions, disconnect 7 Russian banks

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<p>Thomas Tuchel admitted he cannot imagine life without Roman&nbsp;Abramovich&nbsp;after the Russian billionaire's stunning decision to put Chelsea up for sale.</p>

<p>Abramovich&nbsp;has come to the "incredibly difficult" conclusion that he must sell Chelsea amid the political fall-out from Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>The 55-year-old revealed the shock news less than an hour before Chelsea kicked off in their 3-2 FA Cup fifth-round win at Luton on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Abramovich&nbsp;bought Chelsea in 2003 and his vast investment helped the west London club win 19 major trophies, including five Premier League titles and two Champions League crowns.</p>

<p>He hired Tuchel in January 2021 and was in Abu Dhabi recently to watch as Chelsea won the Club World Cup for the first time, having already lifted the Champions League and UEFA Super Cup in the German's reign.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-ukraine-attempts-to-embarrass-moscow-invites-russian-mums-to-collect-captured-sons-458383">Ukraine attempts to embarrass Moscow, invites Russian mums to collect captured sons</a></strong></p>

<p>But the&nbsp;Abramovich&nbsp;era at Stamford Bridge is coming to an abrupt end due to the war in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Abramovich&nbsp;reportedly opted to sell Chelsea amid fears he could come under British government sanctions given his alleged links to Russian President Vladimir Putin.</p>

<p>With a consortium of billionaires already making their interest in a deal public,&nbsp;Abramovich&nbsp;set his asking price for Chelsea at a reported £3 billion ($4 billion) and pledged to give the net proceeds to victims of the Ukraine conflict.</p>

<p>Swiss tycoon Hansjorg Wyss and American investor Todd Boehly, a co-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team, are understood to be two of the parties joining forces to bid for the Blues.</p>

<p>Tuchel and his players only learned of the oligarch's decision to sell up shortly before the Luton match.</p>

<p><strong>'Massive change'</strong></p>

<p>And he conceded he needed time to get to grips with the seismic changes on the horizon in the post-Abramovich&nbsp;world.</p>

<p>"It's a bit too early to speak, because I can only think about Chelsea with Roman&nbsp;Abramovich. So it's very hard for me. It hasn't sunk in yet that this is going to stop. It's a massive change of course," Tuchel said.</p>

<p>Asked if the bombshell announcement had rocked his players given their creaky display for long periods against second tier Luton, Tuchel said: "They have internet connections, they watch TV so of course they knew, they get messages. But still we focused in the preparation only on sports.</p>

<p>"And maybe some players are more affected, some less, but in the end we managed to focus, grow into this game and find the key to win it."</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-unleashes-turkeys-bayraktar-tb2-drones-on-russia-is-it-a-gamechanger-458271">Ukraine unleashes Turkey's Bayraktar TB2 drones on Russia: Is it a gamechanger?</a></strong></p>

<p>Tuchel is well aware the impending regime change could lead to all manner of issues in the future.</p>

<p>At present, he mostly deals directly with Chelsea technical advisor Petr Cech and Marina Granovskaia, a club director and long-time&nbsp;Abramovich&nbsp;aide.</p>

<p>Publicly at least, he remains calm and insisted the sale will not be a problem as his main focus remains on the players and his staff.</p>

<p>"I don't think I need to talk about it, I don't know as much as maybe you think. I'm not a CEO or member of the board. So, I'm very sure the club will speak to us and the players," he said.</p>

<p>"I'm not so much worried because I still feel privileged and in a good place. And I still hope and trust for the best. I'm not so much the person who worries about things I cannot influence.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia rejects International Criminal Court's jurisdiction over probe into war crimes in Ukraine</strong></p>

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Thomas Tuchel admitted he cannot imagine life without Roman Abramovich after the Russian billionaire's stunning decision to put Chelsea up for sale. Abramovich has come to the "incredibly difficult" conclusion that he must sell Chelsea amid the political fall-out from Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Thomas Tuchel admitted he cannot imagine life without Roman Abramovich after the Russian billionaire's stunning decision to put Chelsea up for sale. Abramovich has come to the "incredibly difficult" conclusion that he must sell Chelsea amid the political fall-out from Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The 55-year-old revealed the shock news less than an hour before Chelsea kicked off in their 3-2 FA Cup fifth-round win at Luton on Wednesday. Abramovich bought Chelsea in 2003 and his vast investment helped the west London club win 19 major trophies, including five Premier League titles and two Champions League crowns. He hired Tuchel in January 2021 and was in Abu Dhabi recently to watch as Chelsea won the Club World Cup for the first time, having already lifted the Champions League and UEFA Super Cup in the German's reign. ALSO READ | Ukraine attempts to embarrass Moscow, invites Russian mums to collect captured sons But the Abramovich era at Stamford Bridge is coming to an abrupt end due to the war in Ukraine. Abramovich reportedly opted to sell Chelsea amid fears he could come under British government sanctions given his alleged links to Russian President Vladimir Putin. With a consortium of billionaires already making their interest in a deal public, Abramovich set his asking price for Chelsea at a reported £3 billion ($4 billion) and pledged to give the net proceeds to victims of the Ukraine conflict. Swiss tycoon Hansjorg Wyss and American investor Todd Boehly, a co-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team, are understood to be two of the parties joining forces to bid for the Blues. Tuchel and his players only learned of the oligarch's decision to sell up shortly before the Luton match. 'Massive change' And he conceded he needed time to get to grips with the seismic changes on the horizon in the post-Abramovich world. "It's a bit too early to speak, because I can only think about Chelsea with Roman Abramovich. So it's very hard for me. It hasn't sunk in yet that this is going to stop. It's a massive change of course," Tuchel said. Asked if the bombshell announcement had rocked his players given their creaky display for long periods against second tier Luton, Tuchel said: "They have internet connections, they watch TV so of course they knew, they get messages. But still we focused in the preparation only on sports. "And maybe some players are more affected, some less, but in the end we managed to focus, grow into this game and find the key to win it." IN PICS | Ukraine unleashes Turkey's Bayraktar TB2 drones on Russia: Is it a gamechanger? Tuchel is well aware the impending regime change could lead to all manner of issues in the future. At present, he mostly deals directly with Chelsea technical advisor Petr Cech and Marina Granovskaia, a club director and long-time Abramovich aide. Publicly at least, he remains calm and insisted the sale will not be a problem as his main focus remains on the players and his staff. "I don't think I need to talk about it, I don't know as much as maybe you think. I'm not a CEO or member of the board. So, I'm very sure the club will speak to us and the players," he said. "I'm not so much worried because I still feel privileged and in a good place. And I still hope and trust for the best. I'm not so much the person who worries about things I cannot influence. WATCH | Russia rejects International Criminal Court's jurisdiction over probe into war crimes in Ukraine ×

Thomas Tuchel 'can't imagine' Chelsea without Roman Abramovich after club put up for sale

<p>The Ukraine crisis continues to escalate as the latest reports confirmed that Russia has captured the Ukrainian city of Kherson on Thursday (March 3). However, the Russian forces are facing stiffer-than-expected resistance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday (March 2), Ukraine invited the mothers to come and collect their sons - Russian troops - who were captured while fighting on the battlefield in an apparent attempt to embarrass Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine's defence ministry said in a statement: "A decision has been made to hand over captured Russian troops to their mothers if they come to collect them in Ukraine, in Kyiv."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-casus-belli-amid-ukraine-crisis-russia-space-agency-head-says-satellite-hacking-would-justify-war-458357">&nbsp;'A casus belli': Amid Ukraine crisis, Russia space agency head says satellite hacking would justify war</a></strong></p>

<p>Since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered "military operations" in Ukraine on February 24, Ukraine claimed that it has captured dozens of Russian servicemen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from that, multiple videos and photos have been circulating on social media forums of disarmed young men in Russian military uniforms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports have also claimed that locals in Ukraine are providing tea, food and some other necessities to captured Russians. The civilians are also claimed to have let them call their mothers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-unleashes-turkeys-bayraktar-tb2-drones-on-russia-is-it-a-gamechanger-458271">Ukraine unleashes Turkey's Bayraktar TB2 drones on Russia: Is it a gamechanger?</a></strong></p>

<p>Previously, Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk had asked the International Red Cross to help repatriate the dead bodies of Russian soldiers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There are thousands of invaders' bodies. This is a humanitarian need. We ask for the bodies of the invaders to leave Ukrainian territory and go to Russia," she had said last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We call upon Russians again to make it so that there are fewer bodies of your sons, of your men, otherwise there will be thousands of them. I say it again, victory will be ours," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UNGA adopts resolution on Ukraine in a historic vote</strong></p>

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The Ukraine crisis continues to escalate as the latest reports confirmed that Russia has captured the Ukrainian city of Kherson on Thursday (March 3). However, the Russian forces are facing stiffer-than-expected resistance.

The Ukraine crisis continues to escalate as the latest reports confirmed that Russia has captured the Ukrainian city of Kherson on Thursday (March 3). However, the Russian forces are facing stiffer-than-expected resistance. On Wednesday (March 2), Ukraine invited the mothers to come and collect their sons - Russian troops - who were captured while fighting on the battlefield in an apparent attempt to embarrass Moscow. Ukraine's defence ministry said in a statement: "A decision has been made to hand over captured Russian troops to their mothers if they come to collect them in Ukraine, in Kyiv." ALSO READ | 'A casus belli': Amid Ukraine crisis, Russia space agency head says satellite hacking would justify war Since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered "military operations" in Ukraine on February 24, Ukraine claimed that it has captured dozens of Russian servicemen. Apart from that, multiple videos and photos have been circulating on social media forums of disarmed young men in Russian military uniforms. Reports have also claimed that locals in Ukraine are providing tea, food and some other necessities to captured Russians. The civilians are also claimed to have let them call their mothers. IN PICS | Ukraine unleashes Turkey's Bayraktar TB2 drones on Russia: Is it a gamechanger? Previously, Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk had asked the International Red Cross to help repatriate the dead bodies of Russian soldiers. "There are thousands of invaders' bodies. This is a humanitarian need. We ask for the bodies of the invaders to leave Ukrainian territory and go to Russia," she had said last week. "We call upon Russians again to make it so that there are fewer bodies of your sons, of your men, otherwise there will be thousands of them. I say it again, victory will be ours," she added. WATCH | UNGA adopts resolution on Ukraine in a historic vote ×

Russia Ukraine Conflict: Ukraine attempts to embarrass Moscow, invites Russian mums to collect captured sons

<p>Dmitry Rogozin, the head of the Russian space agency, was quoted as saying on Wednesday (March 2) that Russia will treat any hacking of its satellites as a justification for war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid a war-like situation after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a hacking group Anonymous claimed that they have shut down Russia's space agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Affiliated with Anonymous, the Network Battalion 65 or 'NB65' is believed to have hacked the space agency of Russia as they claimed to show the server information for Roscosmos on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-unleashes-turkeys-bayraktar-tb2-drones-on-russia-is-it-a-gamechanger-458271">Ukraine unleashes Turkey's Bayraktar TB2 drones on Russia: Is it a gamechanger?</a></strong></p>

<p>Such hacking would mean that Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be able to control spy satellites amid the ongoing invasion in Ukraine, which has killed more than 100 people, including children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a tweet, Anonymous TV wrote: "Hacking group 'NB65', affiliated with #Anonymous has shut down the Control Center of the Russian Space Agency 'Roscosmos'. #Russia has no more control over their own Spy-Satelites."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, denying the reports and warning against such actions, the head of the Russian space agency called Anonymous 'scammers and petty swindlers'.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/which-assets-of-russian-president-vladimir-putin-can-be-seized-due-to-ukraine-invasion-458127">Which assets of Russian President Vladimir Putin can be seized due to Ukraine invasion?&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The information of these scammers and petty swindlers is not true. All our space activity control centers are operating normally. <a href="https://t.co/MY0qzlLqCI">https://t.co/MY0qzlLqCI</a></p>
— РОГОЗИН (@Rogozin) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rogozin/status/1498903566135832577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Offlining the satellites of any country is actually a casus belli, a cause for war," Interfax quoted him as saying.</p>

<p>Rogozin also said his agency wanted British-based tech firm OneWeb to provide guarantees that its satellites are not going to be used against Russia, Interfax added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Without these, Rogozin said Russia will cancel the planned March 4 launch of 36 OneWeb satellites from the Baikonur cosmodrome, which Russia rents from Kazakhstan, without compensating OneWeb, the Russian news agency reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;International Criminal Court prosecutor opens probe into Russia's invasion of Ukraine</strong></p>

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Dmitry Rogozin, the head of the Russian space agency, was quoted as saying on Wednesday (March 2) that Russia will treat any hacking of its satellites as a justification for war.

Dmitry Rogozin, the head of the Russian space agency, was quoted as saying on Wednesday (March 2) that Russia will treat any hacking of its satellites as a justification for war. Amid a war-like situation after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a hacking group Anonymous claimed that they have shut down Russia's space agency. Affiliated with Anonymous, the Network Battalion 65 or 'NB65' is believed to have hacked the space agency of Russia as they claimed to show the server information for Roscosmos on Twitter. IN PICS | Ukraine unleashes Turkey's Bayraktar TB2 drones on Russia: Is it a gamechanger? Such hacking would mean that Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be able to control spy satellites amid the ongoing invasion in Ukraine, which has killed more than 100 people, including children. In a tweet, Anonymous TV wrote: "Hacking group 'NB65', affiliated with #Anonymous has shut down the Control Center of the Russian Space Agency 'Roscosmos'. #Russia has no more control over their own Spy-Satelites." Meanwhile, denying the reports and warning against such actions, the head of the Russian space agency called Anonymous 'scammers and petty swindlers'. IN PICS | Which assets of Russian President Vladimir Putin can be seized due to Ukraine invasion? The information of these scammers and petty swindlers is not true. All our space activity control centers are operating normally. https://t.co/MY0qzlLqCI — РОГОЗИН (@Rogozin) March 2, 2022 × "Offlining the satellites of any country is actually a casus belli, a cause for war," Interfax quoted him as saying. Rogozin also said his agency wanted British-based tech firm OneWeb to provide guarantees that its satellites are not going to be used against Russia, Interfax added. Without these, Rogozin said Russia will cancel the planned March 4 launch of 36 OneWeb satellites from the Baikonur cosmodrome, which Russia rents from Kazakhstan, without compensating OneWeb, the Russian news agency reported. WATCH | International Criminal Court prosecutor opens probe into Russia's invasion of Ukraine ×

'A casus belli': Amid Ukraine crisis, Russia space agency head says satellite hacking would justify war

<p>An overwhelming majority of nations at the&nbsp;UN&nbsp;General Assembly&nbsp;voted on Wednesday to condemn Moscow's invasion of Ukraine by "demanding" Russia "immediately" withdraw from it.</p>

<p>The move is seen as a powerful rebuke to Moscow's invasion.</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden in a statement later Wednesday said that "the world is rejecting Russia’s lies,". "Russia is responsible for the devastating abuses of human rights and the international humanitarian crisis that we are watching unfold in Ukraine in real time."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-general-assembly-votes-to-demand-russian-withdrawal-from-ukraine-india-china-abstain-458333">UN General Assembly votes to demand Russian withdrawal from Ukraine; India, China abstain</a></strong></p>

<p>The resolution "deplores"&nbsp;the invasion of Ukraine&nbsp;and President Vladimir Putin's decision to place nuclear weapons on alert&nbsp;"in the strongest terms".</p>

<p>"They have come to deprive Ukraine of the very right to exist," Ukraine's ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya told the Assembly ahead of the vote.</p>

<p>"It's already clear that the goal of Russia is not an occupation only. It is genocide."</p>

<p>The text of the resolution has undergone numerous changes over the past couple of days.&nbsp;It no longer&nbsp;"condemns"&nbsp;the invasion as anticipated, but instead&nbsp;"deplores in the strongest terms the Russian Federation's aggression against Ukraine."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-staggering-humanitarian-cost-of-russias-cruellest-day-of-attack-on-ukraine-458341" hreflang="en">The 'staggering' humanitarian cost of Russia's 'cruellest' day of attack on Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>The vote, which came as Putin's forces bore down on Kyiv while terrified Ukrainians fled, was touted by diplomats as a bellwether of democracy in an autocratic world.</p>

<p>Olof Skoog, the EU's ambassador to the UN, said the vote was "not just about Ukraine."</p>

<p>"It is about defending an international order based on rules we all have signed up to," he said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;UNGA votes on resolution on Russia's invasion of Ukraine &amp; demands Russia to withdraw troops</strong></p>

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<p>UN&nbsp;Secretary-General Antonio Guterres remarked that the General Assembly's message was "loud and clear."</p>

<p>"End hostilities in Ukraine -- now.&nbsp;Silence the guns -- now," he said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As bad as the situation is for the people in Ukraine right now, it threatens to get much, much worse.&nbsp;The ticking clock is a time bomb."</p>

<p>During the session, some delegations chose to place stuffed animals on their tables - a stark reminder of the conflict's devastating impact on children.</p>

<p>141 out of 193 member states voted for the non-binding resolution after more than two days of extraordinary debate during which the Ukrainian ambassador accused Russia of genocide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A total of 35 countries, including&nbsp;China, India and Pakistan&nbsp;abstained from voting, and only five opposed it -- Eritrea, North Korea, Syria, Belarus and of course Russia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An overwhelming majority of nations at the UN General Assembly voted on Wednesday to condemn Moscow's invasion of Ukraine by "demanding" Russia "immediately" withdraw from it.

An overwhelming majority of nations at the UN General Assembly voted on Wednesday to condemn Moscow's invasion of Ukraine by "demanding" Russia "immediately" withdraw from it. The move is seen as a powerful rebuke to Moscow's invasion. US President Joe Biden in a statement later Wednesday said that "the world is rejecting Russia’s lies,". "Russia is responsible for the devastating abuses of human rights and the international humanitarian crisis that we are watching unfold in Ukraine in real time." Also read | UN General Assembly votes to demand Russian withdrawal from Ukraine; India, China abstain The resolution "deplores" the invasion of Ukraine and President Vladimir Putin's decision to place nuclear weapons on alert "in the strongest terms". "They have come to deprive Ukraine of the very right to exist," Ukraine's ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya told the Assembly ahead of the vote. "It's already clear that the goal of Russia is not an occupation only. It is genocide." The text of the resolution has undergone numerous changes over the past couple of days. It no longer "condemns" the invasion as anticipated, but instead "deplores in the strongest terms the Russian Federation's aggression against Ukraine." Also read | The 'staggering' humanitarian cost of Russia's 'cruellest' day of attack on Ukraine The vote, which came as Putin's forces bore down on Kyiv while terrified Ukrainians fled, was touted by diplomats as a bellwether of democracy in an autocratic world. Olof Skoog, the EU's ambassador to the UN, said the vote was "not just about Ukraine." "It is about defending an international order based on rules we all have signed up to," he said in a statement. Watch | UNGA votes on resolution on Russia's invasion of Ukraine & demands Russia to withdraw troops UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres remarked that the General Assembly's message was "loud and clear." "End hostilities in Ukraine -- now. Silence the guns -- now," he said in a statement. "As bad as the situation is for the people in Ukraine right now, it threatens to get much, much worse. The ticking clock is a time bomb." During the session, some delegations chose to place stuffed animals on their tables - a stark reminder of the conflict's devastating impact on children. 141 out of 193 member states voted for the non-binding resolution after more than two days of extraordinary debate during which the Ukrainian ambassador accused Russia of genocide. A total of 35 countries, including China, India and Pakistan abstained from voting, and only five opposed it -- Eritrea, North Korea, Syria, Belarus and of course Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

'Silence the guns...now', 'world is rejecting Russia’s lies': Here's how world leaders reacted to UNGA vote

<p>US officials warned Wednesday of the "staggering" human toll of Moscow's incursion into Ukraine following the apparent use of cluster bombs and other treaty violating weapons that threaten to escalate further the conflict.</p>

<p>The warning came as Russia reported that 498 of its troops were killed in the assault on ex-Soviet Ukraine, the first official death toll it has released but one that Kyiv says is considerably undercounted.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/320-missiles-in-a-day-russia-targets-short-range-ballistic-missiles-at-ukraine-what-is-the-result-458123" hreflang="en">320 missiles in a day: Russia targets short-range ballistic missiles at Ukraine; what is the result?</a></strong></p>

<p>Despite determined resistance in Ukraine, Russia appears to be stepping up the offensive initiated by President Vladimir Putin seven days earlier -- in defiance of almost all of the international community.</p>

<p>"Today was the hardest, cruellest of the seven days of this war," said Vadym Boychenko, the mayor of the key southeastern port of Mariupol who said Russian forces pummelled the city for hours and were attempting to block civilians from leaving.</p>

<p>"Today they just wanted to destroy us all," he said in a video on Telegram, accusing Russian forces of attacking residential buildings.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-bank-prepares-3-billion-emergency-aid-package-for-war-torn-ukraine-458087" hreflang="en">World Bank prepares $3 billion emergency aid package for war-torn Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>Boychenko said the assault damaged more of the city's vital infrastructure, leaving residents without light, water, or heat.</p>

<p>Top US diplomat Antony Blinken warned that the human toll was already "staggering," and that Russia has been attacking places that "aren't military targets."</p>

<p>"Hundreds if not thousands of civilians have been killed or wounded," said the Secretary of State, who will be travelling to eastern Europe next week to rally support for Ukraine and to secure a ceasefire.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Tracking the Ukraine Conflict</strong></p>

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<p>According to Ukraine's government, at least 350 civilians, including 14 children, have been killed in the conflict, and hundreds of thousands have fled the country since it began.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UN's office for human rights, OHCHR, said it registered 752 civilian casualties, including 227 deaths, but believes that the number is "considerably higher."</p>

<p>"The humanitarian consequences will only grow in the days ahead," Blinken warned.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agency)</em></p>


US officials warned Wednesday of the "staggering" human toll of Moscow's incursion into Ukraine following the apparent use of cluster bombs and other treaty violating weapons that threaten to escalate further the conflict.

US officials warned Wednesday of the "staggering" human toll of Moscow's incursion into Ukraine following the apparent use of cluster bombs and other treaty violating weapons that threaten to escalate further the conflict. The warning came as Russia reported that 498 of its troops were killed in the assault on ex-Soviet Ukraine, the first official death toll it has released but one that Kyiv says is considerably undercounted. Also read | 320 missiles in a day: Russia targets short-range ballistic missiles at Ukraine; what is the result? Despite determined resistance in Ukraine, Russia appears to be stepping up the offensive initiated by President Vladimir Putin seven days earlier -- in defiance of almost all of the international community. "Today was the hardest, cruellest of the seven days of this war," said Vadym Boychenko, the mayor of the key southeastern port of Mariupol who said Russian forces pummelled the city for hours and were attempting to block civilians from leaving. "Today they just wanted to destroy us all," he said in a video on Telegram, accusing Russian forces of attacking residential buildings. Also read | World Bank prepares $3 billion emergency aid package for war-torn Ukraine Boychenko said the assault damaged more of the city's vital infrastructure, leaving residents without light, water, or heat. Top US diplomat Antony Blinken warned that the human toll was already "staggering," and that Russia has been attacking places that "aren't military targets." "Hundreds if not thousands of civilians have been killed or wounded," said the Secretary of State, who will be travelling to eastern Europe next week to rally support for Ukraine and to secure a ceasefire. Watch | Gravitas: Tracking the Ukraine Conflict According to Ukraine's government, at least 350 civilians, including 14 children, have been killed in the conflict, and hundreds of thousands have fled the country since it began. The UN's office for human rights, OHCHR, said it registered 752 civilian casualties, including 227 deaths, but believes that the number is "considerably higher." "The humanitarian consequences will only grow in the days ahead," Blinken warned. (With inputs from agency)

The 'staggering' humanitarian cost of Russia's 'cruellest' day of attack on Ukraine

<p>Despite unexpectedly ferocious resistance, the first major Ukrainian city fell to Russian forces as they take the Black Sea port of Kherson in southern Ukraine. It was confirmed on Thursday (March 3).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Igor Kolykhayev, who is the mayor of the Ukrainian city of Kherson, on Wednesday (March 2), said Russian troops were in the streets and had forced their way into the city council building.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kolykhayev urged Russian soldiers not to shoot at civilians and publicly called on civilians to walk through the streets only in daylight and in ones and twos. "We do not have the Armed Forces in the city, only civilians and people who want to LIVE here!" he said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-under-attack-satellite-images-show-whats-happening-on-the-ground-zero-458503">Ukraine under attack: Satellite&nbsp;images show what's happening on the ground zero</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>But what's next?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>On February 25, Reuters reported citing military analysts and former officials that Russia's invasion of Ukraine looks designed to take Kyiv and create a land corridor south to the Black Sea, splitting the country into two.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the latest analysis by The Telegraph, Russian President Vladimir Putin's move suggested that he is set to <strong>'cut Ukraine in two'</strong> as Russian troops gain vital bridgehead to attack Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The advancement means that Russian armed forces can cross the River Dnieper, which cuts Ukraine in two and head westwards and northwards to attack Kyiv from a second direction.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-russias-sarmat-intercontinental-ballistic-missile-can-change-battlefield-dynamic-458549">How Russia's Sarmat Intercontinental ballistic missile can change battlefield dynamic</a></strong></p>

<p>The southern port city of Mariupol, which is an industrial port on the Sea of Azov, becomes vital now because Russia will need to control if it is to open a land route from the city of Odesa with the occupied territory of the Crimean peninsula.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mariupol is in the way of the Russian leader controlling the coastline from Crimea to the Donbas. City's mayor, Vadym Boichenko, said: "Their [Russia] mission is to destroy us. We cannot even take the wounded from the streets, from houses and apartments today, since the shelling does not stop."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The reports have&nbsp;mentioned that the Russian forces pound and encircle the strategic port city of Mariupol, which is without water or electricity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian forces relentlessly launched rocket artillery fire on Mariupol. The authorities said as quoted by the media outlet that they were trying to make the city unlivable by targeting civilian infrastructure and homes. Officials said it amounted to "real genocide".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The media outlet has also uncovered evidence of what appeared to be fresh war crimes committed by Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine conflict: New sanctions on Belarus, Russian defence sector</strong></p>

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Despite unexpectedly ferocious resistance, the first major Ukrainian city fell to Russian forces as they take the Black Sea port of Kherson in southern Ukraine. It was confirmed on Thursday (March 3).

Despite unexpectedly ferocious resistance, the first major Ukrainian city fell to Russian forces as they take the Black Sea port of Kherson in southern Ukraine. It was confirmed on Thursday (March 3). Igor Kolykhayev, who is the mayor of the Ukrainian city of Kherson, on Wednesday (March 2), said Russian troops were in the streets and had forced their way into the city council building. Kolykhayev urged Russian soldiers not to shoot at civilians and publicly called on civilians to walk through the streets only in daylight and in ones and twos. "We do not have the Armed Forces in the city, only civilians and people who want to LIVE here!" he said in a statement. IN PICS | Ukraine under attack: Satellite images show what's happening on the ground zero But what's next? On February 25, Reuters reported citing military analysts and former officials that Russia's invasion of Ukraine looks designed to take Kyiv and create a land corridor south to the Black Sea, splitting the country into two. In the latest analysis by The Telegraph, Russian President Vladimir Putin's move suggested that he is set to 'cut Ukraine in two' as Russian troops gain vital bridgehead to attack Kyiv. The advancement means that Russian armed forces can cross the River Dnieper, which cuts Ukraine in two and head westwards and northwards to attack Kyiv from a second direction. IN PICS | How Russia's Sarmat Intercontinental ballistic missile can change battlefield dynamic The southern port city of Mariupol, which is an industrial port on the Sea of Azov, becomes vital now because Russia will need to control if it is to open a land route from the city of Odesa with the occupied territory of the Crimean peninsula. Mariupol is in the way of the Russian leader controlling the coastline from Crimea to the Donbas. City's mayor, Vadym Boichenko, said: "Their [Russia] mission is to destroy us. We cannot even take the wounded from the streets, from houses and apartments today, since the shelling does not stop." The reports have mentioned that the Russian forces pound and encircle the strategic port city of Mariupol, which is without water or electricity. The Russian forces relentlessly launched rocket artillery fire on Mariupol. The authorities said as quoted by the media outlet that they were trying to make the city unlivable by targeting civilian infrastructure and homes. Officials said it amounted to "real genocide". The media outlet has also uncovered evidence of what appeared to be fresh war crimes committed by Russia. WATCH | Ukraine conflict: New sanctions on Belarus, Russian defence sector ×

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