In Ukraine's southern port city of Odesa, a Russian drone crashed into an apartment block on Saturday (March 2), resulting in two fatalities, eight injuries and six individuals still missing, as reported by authorities.&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky denounced the incident, stating in a Telegram post that Russia continues to target civilians, and a residential building in Odessa was hit by an enemy drone, causing the destruction of 18 apartments.

Zelensky shared a video revealing the severe damage to the apartment building, with a substantial section removed from several stories. The footage depicted numerous rescuers working tirelessly amidst a sea of rubble.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-in-rare-visit-to-kharkiv-netherlands-pm-signs-security-deal-with-kyiv-695728">In rare visit to Kharkiv, Netherlands PM signs security deal with Kyiv</a>

The Ukrainian President identified the drone responsible as a Shahed, a large kamikaze drone with wings supplied by Iran. Throughout the ongoing war, Russia has deployed thousands of these drones to strike deep within Ukraine.

Oleh Kiper, Odesa's regional governor, reported at 8:30 am local time (0630 GMT) that efforts were underway to clear the rubble. He mentioned that one person had been rescued alive, likely sheltering in the basement during the drone strike.

According to Ukraine's Suspilne public broadcaster, local prosecutors indicated that six individuals were still unaccounted for in the aftermath of the incident.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-ukraine-discusses-security-deals-with-allies-as-war-enters-third-year-what-are-they-693703">Explained: Ukraine discusses security deals with allies as war enters third year. What are they?</a>

Earlier, Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte signed a 10-year security deal with Ukraine in Kharkiv on Friday (March 1), becoming the seventh Western leader to sign a security agreement with the war-torn country.

Canada, Italy, the United Kingdom (UK), Germany, France, and Denmark have signed bilateral security deals with Ukraine over the past two months.

According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Prime Minister Rutte told reporters that his government would contribute to the Czech Republic's initiative to purchase 800,000 artillery shells.

In February, the Czech Republic said it had sourced 500,000 rounds of 155 mm shells and 300,000 122 mm rounds from other countries, which could be delivered to Ukraine in weeks if funding was secured.

Rutte told reporters that the Netherlands would donate $162 million (150 million euros) to the Czech initiative, taking the total to $271 million.

(With inputs from agencies)

In Ukraine's southern port city of Odesa, a Russian drone crashed into an apartment block on Saturday (March 2), resulting in two fatalities, eight injuries and six individuals still missing, as reported by authorities.

In Ukraine's southern port city of Odesa, a Russian drone crashed into an apartment block on Saturday (March 2), resulting in two fatalities, eight injuries and six individuals still missing, as reported by authorities. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky denounced the incident, stating in a Telegram post that Russia continues to target civilians, and a residential building in Odessa was hit by an enemy drone, causing the destruction of 18 apartments. Zelensky shared a video revealing the severe damage to the apartment building, with a substantial section removed from several stories. The footage depicted numerous rescuers working tirelessly amidst a sea of rubble. Also read: In rare visit to Kharkiv, Netherlands PM signs security deal with Kyiv The Ukrainian President identified the drone responsible as a Shahed, a large kamikaze drone with wings supplied by Iran. Throughout the ongoing war, Russia has deployed thousands of these drones to strike deep within Ukraine. Oleh Kiper, Odesa's regional governor, reported at 8:30 am local time (0630 GMT) that efforts were underway to clear the rubble. He mentioned that one person had been rescued alive, likely sheltering in the basement during the drone strike. According to Ukraine's Suspilne public broadcaster, local prosecutors indicated that six individuals were still unaccounted for in the aftermath of the incident. Also read | Explained: Ukraine discusses security deals with allies as war enters third year. What are they? Earlier, Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte signed a 10-year security deal with Ukraine in Kharkiv on Friday (March 1), becoming the seventh Western leader to sign a security agreement with the war-torn country. Canada, Italy, the United Kingdom (UK), Germany, France, and Denmark have signed bilateral security deals with Ukraine over the past two months. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Prime Minister Rutte told reporters that his government would contribute to the Czech Republic's initiative to purchase 800,000 artillery shells. In February, the Czech Republic said it had sourced 500,000 rounds of 155 mm shells and 300,000 122 mm rounds from other countries, which could be delivered to Ukraine in weeks if funding was secured. Rutte told reporters that the Netherlands would donate $162 million (150 million euros) to the Czech initiative, taking the total to $271 million. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian drone assault in Odesa claims two lives, leaves eight injured

Russia on Sunday announced that its forces had taken up more advantageous positions near Ukraine's Avdiivka and Donetsk. This comes as the Ukraine-Russia war completed two years&nbsp;and Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the military to push further into Ukraine.&nbsp;

<h2>Better positions&nbsp;</h2>

A Russian defence military report said that its troops had pushed back Ukrainian forces near Klishchiivka, Dyliivka and Kurdiumivka, villages south of Bakhmut.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelenskys-rare-admission-says-31000-ukrainian-soldiers-killed-in-war-with-russia-693799">Zelensky admits 31,000 Ukrainian soldiers killed in war with Russia, pegs Moscow casualties at 180,000</a>

"In the Donetsk direction, units of the Southern grouping of troops improved the situation along the front line and defeated formations of the 22nd, 28th and 92nd mechanised brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the areas of the settlements of Klishchiivka, Dyliivka and Kurdiumivka."

It also said that the nation's troops had taken better positions near Avdiivka.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Russia makes crucial advances in Ukraine | Pushes further in West

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"In the Avdiivka direction, units of the Centre group of forces occupied more advantageous lines and positions, and also defeated manpower and equipment of the 3rd Assault Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the 107th Air Defence Brigade."

As per the ministry, the Russian forces had repelled seven Ukrainian counterattacks in the area. In the process, 77 of Kyiv's drones were destroyed, it added.

<h2>Ukraine's report</h2>

Ukraine, on the other hand, made no mention of Russian gains in the Donetsk region in its report. However, it noted clashes around Avdiivka, which was reportedly captured by Russian forces last week.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-presidential-election-early-voting-begins-in-occupied-ukrainian-region-of-zaporizhzhia-693789">Russian presidential election: Early voting begins in occupied Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia</a>

In its evening report, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said that the embattled nation's forces had repelled 18 attacks near Avdiivka. A Reuters report also said that five Russian attacks had been beaten back near Bakhmut, referring to Klishchiivka, Kurdiumivka and other localities.

Just last Tuesday, Putin said Russian troops would push further into Ukraine to build on their success after the fall of Avdiivka — Moscow's biggest gain in recent days — where he said Ukrainian troops had fled in chaos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Sunday announced that its forces had taken up more advantageous positions near Ukraine's Avdiivka and Donetsk. This comes as the Ukraine-Russia war completed two years and Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the military to push further into Ukraine.

Russia on Sunday announced that its forces had taken up more advantageous positions near Ukraine's Avdiivka and Donetsk. This comes as the Ukraine-Russia war completed two years and Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the military to push further into Ukraine. Better positions A Russian defence military report said that its troops had pushed back Ukrainian forces near Klishchiivka, Dyliivka and Kurdiumivka, villages south of Bakhmut. Also read | Zelensky admits 31,000 Ukrainian soldiers killed in war with Russia, pegs Moscow casualties at 180,000 "In the Donetsk direction, units of the Southern grouping of troops improved the situation along the front line and defeated formations of the 22nd, 28th and 92nd mechanised brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the areas of the settlements of Klishchiivka, Dyliivka and Kurdiumivka." It also said that the nation's troops had taken better positions near Avdiivka. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia makes crucial advances in Ukraine | Pushes further in West × "In the Avdiivka direction, units of the Centre group of forces occupied more advantageous lines and positions, and also defeated manpower and equipment of the 3rd Assault Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the 107th Air Defence Brigade." As per the ministry, the Russian forces had repelled seven Ukrainian counterattacks in the area. In the process, 77 of Kyiv's drones were destroyed, it added. Ukraine's report Ukraine, on the other hand, made no mention of Russian gains in the Donetsk region in its report. However, it noted clashes around Avdiivka, which was reportedly captured by Russian forces last week. Also read | Russian presidential election: Early voting begins in occupied Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia In its evening report, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said that the embattled nation's forces had repelled 18 attacks near Avdiivka. A Reuters report also said that five Russian attacks had been beaten back near Bakhmut, referring to Klishchiivka, Kurdiumivka and other localities. Just last Tuesday, Putin said Russian troops would push further into Ukraine to build on their success after the fall of Avdiivka — Moscow's biggest gain in recent days — where he said Ukrainian troops had fled in chaos. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia claims its troops have advanced to better positions in Ukraine's Avdiivka and Donetsk

The United States on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a fresh wave of more than 500 sanctions against Russia. These sanctions announced on the second anniversary of the Ukrainian war, come after the death of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny in prison.

Vowing sustained pressure to stop Russian President Vladimir Putin's "war machine," President Joe Biden said that the sanctions will target more than 100 "individuals connected to Navalny's imprisonment as well as Russia’s financial sector, defence industrial base, procurement networks and sanctions evaders across multiple continents."&nbsp;

<h2>What Biden said</h2>

Referring to the Ukraine war and Navalny's death, in a statement Biden said that the sanctions "will ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression abroad and repression at home."

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-to-impose-sanctions-on-over-500-targets-on-anniversary-of-ukraine-war-693074">US to impose sanctions on over 500 targets on anniversary of Ukraine war</a>

Biden announced that the US will implement additional export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for aiding Russia and will work towards reducing Russia's energy revenues.

"We are also imposing new export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for providing backdoor support for Russia's war machine," said Biden.

Watch |&nbsp;France's defence minister Lecornu slams Moscow

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<h2>Russia and Sanctions</h2>

Since the start of the Ukraine war, the United States and its Western allies have imposed a slew of measures against Moscow. This includes blocking its financial assets, restricting high-tech exports and even setting an official cap on the sale price of Russian oil exports.

The latest sanctions come after Biden declared that he considers Russian President Putin responsible for the death of 47-year-old Navalny.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/navalnys-daughter-offers-tribute-to-late-father-in-first-public-statement-693120">Alexei Navalny's daughter Dasha Navalnaya offers tribute to late father in first public statement</a>

Just a day earlier, on Thursday (Feb 22nd) he met with Navalny's wife Yulia Navalnay and their daughter Dasha in California.

After the meeting, he told reporters that the Putin opponent was a man of incredible courage."

Biden's announcement of the latest measures included a plea to Congress for new military aid to Ukraine.

"History is watching. The failure to support Ukraine at this critical moment will not be forgotten," said Biden.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a fresh wave of more than 500 sanctions against Russia. These sanctions announced on the second anniversary of the Ukrainian war, come after the death of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny in prison.

The United States on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a fresh wave of more than 500 sanctions against Russia. These sanctions announced on the second anniversary of the Ukrainian war, come after the death of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny in prison. Vowing sustained pressure to stop Russian President Vladimir Putin's "war machine," President Joe Biden said that the sanctions will target more than 100 "individuals connected to Navalny's imprisonment as well as Russia’s financial sector, defence industrial base, procurement networks and sanctions evaders across multiple continents." What Biden said Referring to the Ukraine war and Navalny's death, in a statement Biden said that the sanctions "will ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression abroad and repression at home." Also read | US to impose sanctions on over 500 targets on anniversary of Ukraine war Biden announced that the US will implement additional export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for aiding Russia and will work towards reducing Russia's energy revenues. "We are also imposing new export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for providing backdoor support for Russia's war machine," said Biden. Watch | France's defence minister Lecornu slams Moscow × Russia and Sanctions Since the start of the Ukraine war, the United States and its Western allies have imposed a slew of measures against Moscow. This includes blocking its financial assets, restricting high-tech exports and even setting an official cap on the sale price of Russian oil exports. The latest sanctions come after Biden declared that he considers Russian President Putin responsible for the death of 47-year-old Navalny. Also read | Alexei Navalny's daughter Dasha Navalnaya offers tribute to late father in first public statement Just a day earlier, on Thursday (Feb 22nd) he met with Navalny's wife Yulia Navalnay and their daughter Dasha in California. After the meeting, he told reporters that the Putin opponent was a man of incredible courage." Biden's announcement of the latest measures included a plea to Congress for new military aid to Ukraine. "History is watching. The failure to support Ukraine at this critical moment will not be forgotten," said Biden. (With inputs from agencies)

US announces over 500 sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression'

Russia on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a significant expansion of the list of European Union officials and politicians banned from entering Russia. This comes in response to the latest round of sanctions by the bloc.

<h2>'Fruitless attempts'</h2>

In a statement the Russian foreign ministry called the European Union's latest sanctions "fruitless attempts to put pressure," and said that the prohibitions are a response to the "unfriendly actions."

"The European Union is continuing its fruitless attempts to put pressure on Russia through unilateral restrictive measures," it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-announces-more-than-500-sanctions-targeting-russian-prez-vladimir-putins-war-machine-693182">US announces 500+ sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression'</a>

"In response to these unfriendly actions, the Russian side has significantly expanded the list of representatives of European institutions and EU member states, who…are prohibited from entering the territory of our state."

As per a Reuters report quoting the Russian foreign ministry, the latest stop list includes representatives of law enforcement agencies and commercial organisations who provided military assistance to its neighbour, Ukraine. Additionally, representatives of European institutions involved in the prosecution of Russian officials, and those who gathered material to support the idea of confiscating Russian state assets feature on the said list.

Watch |&nbsp;Putin touts Russia's new nuclear bomber, Zelensky pleads for ammo | Has NATO lost Ukraine war?

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"The Russian retaliatory 'stop list' also includes representatives of the Council of Europe, members of the legislative assemblies of European Union countries, members of the OSCE PA (Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) and the PACE (Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe), who systematically make aggressive statements against Russia," said the statement.

<h2>EU's sanctions on Ukraine</h2>

On Wednesday (Feb 21st), EU member states approved the 13th package of Ukraine-related sanctions against Russia. These sanctions ban nearly 200 entities and individuals accused of helping Moscow procure weapons or of involvement in kidnapping Ukrainian children, a charge vehemently denied by Moscow.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-launches-probe-into-over-122000-suspected-war-crimes-since-start-of-russian-invasion-693241">Ukraine launches probe into over 122,000 suspected war crimes since start of Russian invasion</a>

The restrictions which as per Belgium are "one of the broadest approved by the EU" will see 193 entities and individuals added to the list of those banned from travelling to the EU or doing business there. However, no fresh measures were announced against specific economic sectors, reports Reuters citing unnamed EU diplomatic sources.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a significant expansion of the list of European Union officials and politicians banned from entering Russia. This comes in response to the latest round of sanctions by the bloc.

Russia on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a significant expansion of the list of European Union officials and politicians banned from entering Russia. This comes in response to the latest round of sanctions by the bloc. 'Fruitless attempts' In a statement the Russian foreign ministry called the European Union's latest sanctions "fruitless attempts to put pressure," and said that the prohibitions are a response to the "unfriendly actions." "The European Union is continuing its fruitless attempts to put pressure on Russia through unilateral restrictive measures," it said. Also read | US announces 500+ sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression' "In response to these unfriendly actions, the Russian side has significantly expanded the list of representatives of European institutions and EU member states, who…are prohibited from entering the territory of our state." As per a Reuters report quoting the Russian foreign ministry, the latest stop list includes representatives of law enforcement agencies and commercial organisations who provided military assistance to its neighbour, Ukraine. Additionally, representatives of European institutions involved in the prosecution of Russian officials, and those who gathered material to support the idea of confiscating Russian state assets feature on the said list. Watch | Putin touts Russia's new nuclear bomber, Zelensky pleads for ammo | Has NATO lost Ukraine war? × "The Russian retaliatory 'stop list' also includes representatives of the Council of Europe, members of the legislative assemblies of European Union countries, members of the OSCE PA (Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) and the PACE (Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe), who systematically make aggressive statements against Russia," said the statement. EU's sanctions on Ukraine On Wednesday (Feb 21st), EU member states approved the 13th package of Ukraine-related sanctions against Russia. These sanctions ban nearly 200 entities and individuals accused of helping Moscow procure weapons or of involvement in kidnapping Ukrainian children, a charge vehemently denied by Moscow. Also read | Ukraine launches probe into over 122,000 suspected war crimes since start of Russian invasion The restrictions which as per Belgium are "one of the broadest approved by the EU" will see 193 entities and individuals added to the list of those banned from travelling to the EU or doing business there. However, no fresh measures were announced against specific economic sectors, reports Reuters citing unnamed EU diplomatic sources. (With inputs from agencies)

Moscow responds to EU's 'unfriendly actions,' bans bloc members from entering Russia

Ukraine on Wednesday (Feb 14) claimed it had destroyed another Russian warship in the Black Sea as the war intensified between the two countries, approaching its second anniversary, according to a report by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

The operation had been carried out on a Russian landing ship named the 'Tsezar Kunikov', with the Ukrainian military claiming that its forces along with military intelligence units collaborated to 'destroy' the warship.

"It was in Ukrainian territorial waters near Alupka at the time of the hit," Ukraine’s military said on the Telegram messaging app.

The Ukrainian side employed "MAGURA" drones to inflict the attack, rendering the vessel damaged beyond repair, according to a CNN report.

Notably,&nbsp;“MAGURA” drones are only a few metres long and powered by jet skis but they have a range of around 800 kilometres, thereby allowing the Ukrainian military to launch them beyond its coastlines to target Russian assets.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<h2>Previous attack</h2>

The Ukrainian claims about destroying the Russian warship come after Moscow in late December last year acknowledged that one of its warships had suffered damage during an airstrike by Kyiv at the Black Sea port.&nbsp;

The attack occurred in Feodosiya, located in Russian-occupied Crimea, in the early hours of December 26. The Ministry of Defence in Russia confirmed that Ukrainian aircraft equipped with guided missiles targeted the Novocherkassk, a landing warship.&nbsp;

"Sadly, one person was killed and two others were wounded in an enemy attack on Feodosia," Russia-installed governor of Crimea, Sergei Aksionov, said on Telegram.

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

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Veni, vidi, vici.<a href="https://twitter.com/DI_Ukraine?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DI_Ukraine</a> released video of the successful strike on the russian landing ship Caesar Kunikov. <a href="https://t.co/RPcpDi0Dck">pic.twitter.com/RPcpDi0Dck</a>
— Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceU/status/1757691131549126939?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Change in strategy from Kyiv?&nbsp;</h2>

The fresh attack on a Russian warship comes days after President Volodymyr Zelensky fired Ukraine's top commander,&nbsp;General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, in the biggest military shakeup since the start of the war.&nbsp;

"To win the war, we&nbsp;must all push in the same direction, we cannot be discouraged, we must have the right and positive energy, negativity must be left at home. We can't take on giving-up attitudes,"&nbsp;said Zelensky at the time.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-it-conducted-air-strike-on-crimea-destroying-russian-warship-673600">Also read |&nbsp;Russia acknowledges damage to warship in Black Sea by Ukraine</a>

The move was necessitated as&nbsp;Ukraine has struggled to retake territory from Russia, despite launching a much-publicised counter-offensive in June last year, after stocking on Western&nbsp;weapons.

The failure to make inroads has added to Zelensky's frustration who believes that a rejig is the best way to re-energise the forces. Moscow is yet to comment on Wednesday's attack but experts believe a swift retaliation might&nbsp;be in the works.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine on Wednesday (Feb 14) claimed it had destroyed another Russian warship in the Black Sea as the war intensified between the two countries, approaching its second anniversary, according to a report by news agency AFP.

Ukraine on Wednesday (Feb 14) claimed it had destroyed another Russian warship in the Black Sea as the war intensified between the two countries, approaching its second anniversary, according to a report by news agency AFP. The operation had been carried out on a Russian landing ship named the 'Tsezar Kunikov', with the Ukrainian military claiming that its forces along with military intelligence units collaborated to 'destroy' the warship. "It was in Ukrainian territorial waters near Alupka at the time of the hit," Ukraine’s military said on the Telegram messaging app. The Ukrainian side employed "MAGURA" drones to inflict the attack, rendering the vessel damaged beyond repair, according to a CNN report. Notably, “MAGURA” drones are only a few metres long and powered by jet skis but they have a range of around 800 kilometres, thereby allowing the Ukrainian military to launch them beyond its coastlines to target Russian assets. Previous attack The Ukrainian claims about destroying the Russian warship come after Moscow in late December last year acknowledged that one of its warships had suffered damage during an airstrike by Kyiv at the Black Sea port. The attack occurred in Feodosiya, located in Russian-occupied Crimea, in the early hours of December 26. The Ministry of Defence in Russia confirmed that Ukrainian aircraft equipped with guided missiles targeted the Novocherkassk, a landing warship. "Sadly, one person was killed and two others were wounded in an enemy attack on Feodosia," Russia-installed governor of Crimea, Sergei Aksionov, said on Telegram. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Veni, vidi, vici.@DI_Ukraine released video of the successful strike on the russian landing ship Caesar Kunikov. pic.twitter.com/RPcpDi0Dck — Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) February 14, 2024 × Change in strategy from Kyiv? The fresh attack on a Russian warship comes days after President Volodymyr Zelensky fired Ukraine's top commander, General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, in the biggest military shakeup since the start of the war. "To win the war, we must all push in the same direction, we cannot be discouraged, we must have the right and positive energy, negativity must be left at home. We can't take on giving-up attitudes," said Zelensky at the time. Also read | Russia acknowledges damage to warship in Black Sea by Ukraine The move was necessitated as Ukraine has struggled to retake territory from Russia, despite launching a much-publicised counter-offensive in June last year, after stocking on Western weapons. The failure to make inroads has added to Zelensky's frustration who believes that a rejig is the best way to re-energise the forces. Moscow is yet to comment on Wednesday's attack but experts believe a swift retaliation might be in the works. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

VIDEO: Ukraine claims it destroyed another Russian warship in Black Sea

The United Arab Emirates said it succeeded in mediating the release of 100 Russian prisoners of war in exchange for 100 war prisoners from the Ukrainian side.

Russia's Defence Ministry, in a post on the Telegram messaging app, noted the UAE's "humanitarian mediation", as did Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and the Ukrainian body overseeing exchanges of POWs.

The UAE's foreign ministry said it is the third mediation effort between Russia and Ukraine this year adding that it is calling for diplomacy, dialogue, and de-escalation, state news agency WAM reported.

The United Arab Emirates said it succeeded in mediating the release of 100 Russian prisoners of war in exchange for 100 war prisoners from the Ukrainian side. Russia's Defence Ministry, in a post on the Telegram messaging app, noted the UAE's "humanitarian mediation", as did Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and the Ukrainian body overseeing exchanges of POWs.

The United Arab Emirates said it succeeded in mediating the release of 100 Russian prisoners of war in exchange for 100 war prisoners from the Ukrainian side. Russia's Defence Ministry, in a post on the Telegram messaging app, noted the UAE's "humanitarian mediation", as did Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and the Ukrainian body overseeing exchanges of POWs. The UAE's foreign ministry said it is the third mediation effort between Russia and Ukraine this year adding that it is calling for diplomacy, dialogue, and de-escalation, state news agency WAM reported.

UAE says mediation efforts led to Russia, Ukraine swap of 100 prisoners each

Amid limited gains made in the two-year&nbsp;war against Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is mulling a "reset" to replace several top officials including the commander-in-chief of the country's armed forces.&nbsp;

For weeks, the speculations have been rife that Zelensky will fire the highly popular Valerii Zaluzhnyi. The two have been at odds over the current strategy to make headways in the war.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It is a question of the people who are to lead Ukraine. A reset is necessary, I am talking about a replacement of a number of state leaders, not only in the army sector,” Zelensky said in an interview on Sunday (Feb 4)

“When I speak of turnover, I have in mind something serious that does not concern a single person, but the direction of the country’s leadership,” he added when asked about Zaluzhnyi.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian prez said to win the war, "We&nbsp;must all push in the same direction, we cannot be discouraged, we must have the right and positive energy, negativity must be left at home. We can't take on giving-up attitudes."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-moscow-russian-soldiers-wives-call-for-their-return-686841">Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war | Moscow: Russian soldiers' wives call for their return</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>Frosty relations</h2>

A few days ago, The Washington Post carried a report claiming that the Zelensky administration had already informed the United States that&nbsp;Zaluzhnyi&nbsp;was being fired.&nbsp;

The outlet stated that the White House “did not support or object to” the decision, recognising it as the sovereign right of the Ukrainian president.

Notably, the relations between the two men deteriorated after&nbsp;Zaluzhnyi wrote a column for the Economist last November wherein he said the war had entered a new attrition phase. The comment instantly drew a rebuke from Zelensky.&nbsp;

While&nbsp;Zaluzhnyi receives flak from Zelenskym he has earned the admiration of Ukrainians for overseeing operations that repeled the Russian forces from advancing on Kyiv at the beginning of the war and during subsequent attempts.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-soldier-receives-vegetables-as-compensation-for-war-injuries-report-674319">Also read |&nbsp;Russian soldier receives vegetables as compensation for war injuries: Report</a>

Ukraine has struggled to retake territory from Russia, despite launching a much-publicised counter-offensive in June last year, after stocking on Western&nbsp;weapons.

The failure to make inroads has added to Zelensky's frustration who believes that a rejig is the best way to re-energise the forces.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Moscow has intensified its assault by using a record number of drones, according to Kyiv.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid limited gains made in the two-year war against Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is mulling a "reset" to replace several top officials including the commander-in-chief of the country's armed forces.

Amid limited gains made in the two-year war against Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is mulling a "reset" to replace several top officials including the commander-in-chief of the country's armed forces. For weeks, the speculations have been rife that Zelensky will fire the highly popular Valerii Zaluzhnyi. The two have been at odds over the current strategy to make headways in the war. “It is a question of the people who are to lead Ukraine. A reset is necessary, I am talking about a replacement of a number of state leaders, not only in the army sector,” Zelensky said in an interview on Sunday (Feb 4) “When I speak of turnover, I have in mind something serious that does not concern a single person, but the direction of the country’s leadership,” he added when asked about Zaluzhnyi. The Ukrainian prez said to win the war, "We must all push in the same direction, we cannot be discouraged, we must have the right and positive energy, negativity must be left at home. We can't take on giving-up attitudes." Watch | Russia-Ukraine war | Moscow: Russian soldiers' wives call for their return × Frosty relations A few days ago, The Washington Post carried a report claiming that the Zelensky administration had already informed the United States that Zaluzhnyi was being fired. The outlet stated that the White House “did not support or object to” the decision, recognising it as the sovereign right of the Ukrainian president. Notably, the relations between the two men deteriorated after Zaluzhnyi wrote a column for the Economist last November wherein he said the war had entered a new attrition phase. The comment instantly drew a rebuke from Zelensky. While Zaluzhnyi receives flak from Zelenskym he has earned the admiration of Ukrainians for overseeing operations that repeled the Russian forces from advancing on Kyiv at the beginning of the war and during subsequent attempts. Also read | Russian soldier receives vegetables as compensation for war injuries: Report Ukraine has struggled to retake territory from Russia, despite launching a much-publicised counter-offensive in June last year, after stocking on Western weapons. The failure to make inroads has added to Zelensky's frustration who believes that a rejig is the best way to re-energise the forces. Meanwhile, Moscow has intensified its assault by using a record number of drones, according to Kyiv. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky planning to fire senior officials, including military chief as Ukraine struggles in war

Ukrainian&nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky sounded a warning on Sunday, expressing concern over the potential decrease in aid from the United States to Kyiv and emphasised&nbsp;the decision would send a negative message.

Zelensky, in an interview with German national broadcaster ARD, also sounded an alarm about the looming threat of the Ukraine conflict spiralling into World War Three.

<h2>A bad signal &nbsp;</h2>

Amid US President Joe Biden grapplling&nbsp;with a Republican obstruction on additional support to Ukraine, Zelensky urged Germany to leverage its economic influence to encourage EU partners to enhance their contributions to Kyiv's battle against Russia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-it-uncovered-corruption-scheme-in-weapons-procurement-by-military-684495">Ukraine says it uncovered corruption scheme in weapons procurement by military</a>

"Passivity from the United States or the lack of support would be a bad signal," he said, adding that it is not right for anyone, and that "Germany can manage to consolidate the EU."

"Germany can manage to consolidate the EU. Many countries have important economic relationships with Germany, and their economy is dependent on Germany's decisions because Germany has a strong economy," Zelensky stated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-obviously-ukraine-shot-army-plane-carrying-war-prisoners-684096">Putin says 'obviously' Ukraine shot army plane carrying war prisoners</a>

Urging nations from Germany to the United States to stand by Ukraine in these critical times, he articulated the gravity of the situation. Zelensky, as per Reuters, asserted that a potential Russian strike on a NATO country could serve as the ominous start to the Third World War.

"It seems to me that the Chancellor (Olaf Scholz) is aware of this risk," he said.&nbsp;

The ongoing political dynamics in the United States, particularly the Republican opposition, have posed challenges to the continuation of aid to Ukraine. Biden's administration has prioritised supporting Ukraine, and US assistance has been crucial in helping the country resist a significant Russian force. However, the opposition Republicans have sought to halt these efforts, linking budget approvals to demands for stringent measures against illegal migration.

Also watch |&nbsp;Pessimism over prospects for a victory is rising in Ukraine

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-pessimism-over-prospects-for-a-victory-is-rising-in-ukraine-684381/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Zelensky, however, acknowledged the multifaceted support Ukraine receives in the United States and underscored the bipartisan consensus, noting that the vast majority of both Democrats and Republicans stand in solidarity with Ukraine.

"There are individual Republicans who do not support Ukraine, but the vast majority of Democrats and Republicans support Ukraine," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sounded a warning on Sunday, expressing concern over the potential decrease in aid from the United States to Kyiv and emphasised the decision would send a negative message.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sounded a warning on Sunday, expressing concern over the potential decrease in aid from the United States to Kyiv and emphasised the decision would send a negative message. Zelensky, in an interview with German national broadcaster ARD, also sounded an alarm about the looming threat of the Ukraine conflict spiralling into World War Three. A bad signal Amid US President Joe Biden grapplling with a Republican obstruction on additional support to Ukraine, Zelensky urged Germany to leverage its economic influence to encourage EU partners to enhance their contributions to Kyiv's battle against Russia. Also read | Ukraine says it uncovered corruption scheme in weapons procurement by military "Passivity from the United States or the lack of support would be a bad signal," he said, adding that it is not right for anyone, and that "Germany can manage to consolidate the EU." "Germany can manage to consolidate the EU. Many countries have important economic relationships with Germany, and their economy is dependent on Germany's decisions because Germany has a strong economy," Zelensky stated. Also read | Putin says 'obviously' Ukraine shot army plane carrying war prisoners Urging nations from Germany to the United States to stand by Ukraine in these critical times, he articulated the gravity of the situation. Zelensky, as per Reuters, asserted that a potential Russian strike on a NATO country could serve as the ominous start to the Third World War. "It seems to me that the Chancellor (Olaf Scholz) is aware of this risk," he said. The ongoing political dynamics in the United States, particularly the Republican opposition, have posed challenges to the continuation of aid to Ukraine. Biden's administration has prioritised supporting Ukraine, and US assistance has been crucial in helping the country resist a significant Russian force. However, the opposition Republicans have sought to halt these efforts, linking budget approvals to demands for stringent measures against illegal migration. Also watch | Pessimism over prospects for a victory is rising in Ukraine Zelensky, however, acknowledged the multifaceted support Ukraine receives in the United States and underscored the bipartisan consensus, noting that the vast majority of both Democrats and Republicans stand in solidarity with Ukraine. "There are individual Republicans who do not support Ukraine, but the vast majority of Democrats and Republicans support Ukraine," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Bad signal': Ukraine's Zelensky expresses concern over potential decrease in aid from US

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a resolute New Year's address on Sunday (Dec 31), pledged to unleash formidable "wrath" against Russian forces throughout 2024. The leader of the war-torn nation vowed this, undeterred by what he said were attempts to "undermine" support for Kyiv.

On the other hand, Russian President Vladimir Putin's New Year's Eve address was notably scaled back compared to last year,&nbsp;and was also devoid of any mention of the conflict in Ukraine.

<h2>'Our real wrath'</h2>

Zelesnky's declaration, as per AFP, comes less than 72 hours after an aerial assault by Moscow on Ukrainian cities. The barrage of missiles and drones resulted in 39 casualties, marking&nbsp;one of the biggest aerial attacks since Russia invaded Ukraine.

In the televised address, Zelensky promised a substantial increase in Ukraine's military capabilities in the upcoming year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-launches-missiles-and-drone-strikes-on-kharkiv-after-belgorod-terrorist-attack-675323">Russia launches missiles and drone strikes on Kharkiv after Belgorod 'terrorist attack'</a>

"Next year, the enemy will feel the wrath of domestic production," he said. His televised address was accompanied by clips of Ukrainian artillery and fighter jets.

He said that the nation will bolster its arsenal with at least "a million" additional drones and F-16 fighter jets, delivered by Kyiv's Western allies.&nbsp;

"Our pilots are already mastering F-16 jets, and we will definitely see them in our skies," said the Ukrainian President, adding, "So that our enemies can certainly see what our real wrath is."

<h2>Third year of the Ukraine war</h2>

As the Ukraine war enters into its third calendar year — it began on Feb 24, 2022, with Putin announcing a "special military operation" into Ukraine — Zelensky implored Western allies to maintain steadfast support, especially in the face of mounting signs of war fatigue.

"The major result of the year, its main achievement: Ukraine has become stronger. Ukrainians have become stronger," said Zelensky as footage of cities under attack and Kyiv's meetings with&nbsp;western allies played.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-welcomes-new-year-wraps-2023-a-year-defined-by-wars-and-climate-crisis-675386">World welcomes new year, wraps 2023 — a year defined by wars and climate crises</a>

"When, at the beginning of 2023 … we surmounted, without exaggeration, the most difficult winter in history. When we proved that Ukrainians are tougher than cold and darkness. Stronger than power outages and blackout threats."

"Ukrainians are stronger than any intrigues, any attempts to diminish global solidarity, to undermine the coalition of our allies," he said.

Despite receiving substantial support, Ukraine encountered difficulties in achieving a breakthrough during its 2023 counteroffensive against the invading Russian forces. Moscow, meanwhile, escalated pressure along the front lines, capturing the eastern town of Marinka in December and intensifying efforts to control Kupiansk in the northeast.

On the other hand, refraining from mentioning Ukraine by name, Russian President Putin in his New Year's speech said: "To everyone who is at a combat post, at the forefront of the fight for truth and justice: You are our heroes, our hearts are with you. We are proud of you, we admire your courage."

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a resolute New Year's address on Sunday (Dec 31), pledged to unleash formidable "wrath" against Russian forces throughout 2024.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a resolute New Year's address on Sunday (Dec 31), pledged to unleash formidable "wrath" against Russian forces throughout 2024. The leader of the war-torn nation vowed this, undeterred by what he said were attempts to "undermine" support for Kyiv. On the other hand, Russian President Vladimir Putin's New Year's Eve address was notably scaled back compared to last year, and was also devoid of any mention of the conflict in Ukraine. 'Our real wrath' Zelesnky's declaration, as per AFP, comes less than 72 hours after an aerial assault by Moscow on Ukrainian cities. The barrage of missiles and drones resulted in 39 casualties, marking one of the biggest aerial attacks since Russia invaded Ukraine. In the televised address, Zelensky promised a substantial increase in Ukraine's military capabilities in the upcoming year. Also read | Russia launches missiles and drone strikes on Kharkiv after Belgorod 'terrorist attack' "Next year, the enemy will feel the wrath of domestic production," he said. His televised address was accompanied by clips of Ukrainian artillery and fighter jets. He said that the nation will bolster its arsenal with at least "a million" additional drones and F-16 fighter jets, delivered by Kyiv's Western allies. "Our pilots are already mastering F-16 jets, and we will definitely see them in our skies," said the Ukrainian President, adding, "So that our enemies can certainly see what our real wrath is." Third year of the Ukraine war As the Ukraine war enters into its third calendar year — it began on Feb 24, 2022, with Putin announcing a "special military operation" into Ukraine — Zelensky implored Western allies to maintain steadfast support, especially in the face of mounting signs of war fatigue. "The major result of the year, its main achievement: Ukraine has become stronger. Ukrainians have become stronger," said Zelensky as footage of cities under attack and Kyiv's meetings with western allies played. Also read | World welcomes new year, wraps 2023 — a year defined by wars and climate crises "When, at the beginning of 2023 … we surmounted, without exaggeration, the most difficult winter in history. When we proved that Ukrainians are tougher than cold and darkness. Stronger than power outages and blackout threats." "Ukrainians are stronger than any intrigues, any attempts to diminish global solidarity, to undermine the coalition of our allies," he said. Despite receiving substantial support, Ukraine encountered difficulties in achieving a breakthrough during its 2023 counteroffensive against the invading Russian forces. Moscow, meanwhile, escalated pressure along the front lines, capturing the eastern town of Marinka in December and intensifying efforts to control Kupiansk in the northeast. On the other hand, refraining from mentioning Ukraine by name, Russian President Putin in his New Year's speech said: "To everyone who is at a combat post, at the forefront of the fight for truth and justice: You are our heroes, our hearts are with you. We are proud of you, we admire your courage." (With inputs from agencies)

'Ukraine has become stronger': Zelensky vows to unleash 'wrath' against Russia in 2024

Russian strikes on Friday morning hit Ukraine's northeastern city of Kharkiv as well as Lviv in the country's west, the mayors of the two cities said.

"At least six explosions were heard in the city," Kharkiv mayor Igor Terekhov said in a Telegram post, while Lviv's Andriy Sadovyi reported "information about 2 strikes" on the city, which lies just 70 kilometres from the Polish border.

Terekhov described the assault on Kharkiv as "a massive missile attack".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-and-pope-discuss-ukraines-peace-plan-674507">Volodymyr Zelensky and Pope discuss Ukraine's Peace Plan</a>

Kharkiv's regional military administration said Russia had "made about 10 strikes on the city" and that experts were still determining the types of weapons used.

No casualties were immediately reported in either city.

On Thursday, Russian forces shelled Vovchansk in the Kharkiv region, killing a 66-year-old woman and wounding one other.

Three women aged between 58 and 76 were wounded in an air strike on the village of Glushkivka, also in the Kharkiv region, police said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-star-studded-almost-naked-party-triggers-severe-backlash-heres-what-happened-674393">Russia’s star-studded ‘almost naked’ party triggers severe backlash | Here’s what happened</a>

In Ukraine's southern Odesa, a high-rise building caught fire after being struck by debris from a downed drone, the city's mayor said at midnight.&nbsp;

"As a result of another enemy attack, one of the high-rise buildings was damaged. The fire was promptly extinguished," Mayor Gennady Trukhanov said in a social media post.

The Kremlin has not commented on Kyiv's claims but said it had thwarted an "attempted" Ukranian drone attack that targeted the Kursk region in the country's west.

The latest attacks come a day after President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked the United States for releasing the last remaining package of weapons for Ukraine that had been previously authorised.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russian strikes on Friday morning hit Ukraine's northeastern city of Kharkiv as well as Lviv in the country's west, the mayors of the two cities said. "At least six explosions were heard in the city," Kharkiv mayor Igor Terekhov said in a Telegram post, while Lviv's Andriy Sadovyi reported "information about 2 strikes" on the city, which lies just 70 kilometres from the Polish border.

Russian strikes on Friday morning hit Ukraine's northeastern city of Kharkiv as well as Lviv in the country's west, the mayors of the two cities said. "At least six explosions were heard in the city," Kharkiv mayor Igor Terekhov said in a Telegram post, while Lviv's Andriy Sadovyi reported "information about 2 strikes" on the city, which lies just 70 kilometres from the Polish border. Terekhov described the assault on Kharkiv as "a massive missile attack". Also read | Volodymyr Zelensky and Pope discuss Ukraine's Peace Plan Kharkiv's regional military administration said Russia had "made about 10 strikes on the city" and that experts were still determining the types of weapons used. No casualties were immediately reported in either city. On Thursday, Russian forces shelled Vovchansk in the Kharkiv region, killing a 66-year-old woman and wounding one other. Three women aged between 58 and 76 were wounded in an air strike on the village of Glushkivka, also in the Kharkiv region, police said. Also read | Russia’s star-studded ‘almost naked’ party triggers severe backlash | Here’s what happened In Ukraine's southern Odesa, a high-rise building caught fire after being struck by debris from a downed drone, the city's mayor said at midnight. "As a result of another enemy attack, one of the high-rise buildings was damaged. The fire was promptly extinguished," Mayor Gennady Trukhanov said in a social media post. The Kremlin has not commented on Kyiv's claims but said it had thwarted an "attempted" Ukranian drone attack that targeted the Kursk region in the country's west. The latest attacks come a day after President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked the United States for releasing the last remaining package of weapons for Ukraine that had been previously authorised. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russia hits Kharkiv, Lviv in early morning strikes on Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in a call with Pope Francis on Thursday discussed Ukraine's peace formula.

Taking to X, formerly Twitter, the leader of the war-torn nation said that he and the head of the Catholic Church discussed "joint work" to put into action Ukraine's peace plan.

<h2>Discussions and more</h2>

In the X post, Zelensky wrote that he and the Pontiff "discussed our joint work to put Ukraine's Peace Formula into action."

"Over 80 countries are already involved in this process at the level of their representatives. And there will be more of them," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-star-studded-almost-naked-party-triggers-severe-backlash-heres-what-happened-674393">Russia’s star-studded ‘almost naked’ party triggers severe backlash | Here’s what happened</a>

He also said that he expressed his gratitude "to His Holiness for his Christmas greetings to Ukraine and Ukrainians, as well as his wishes for a just peace for all of us." 
&nbsp; 
"I am grateful to the Holy See for supporting our efforts."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I just had a call with <a href="https://twitter.com/Pontifex?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Pontifex</a> Pope Francis. 
 
I expressed my gratitude to His Holiness for his Christmas greetings to Ukraine and Ukrainians, as well as his wishes for a just peace for all of us. 
 
We discussed our joint work to put Ukraine’s Peace Formula into action. Over 80… <a href="https://t.co/212O8mN8dt">pic.twitter.com/212O8mN8dt</a>
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1740453742992892392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>The Pope and Ukraine</h2>

The Pope in his Christmas Day Message had called for an end to the multiple global conflicts, including the one in Ukraine. Before that, in November, renewing his persistent calls for an end to violence in Ukraine and the Middle East, he had stressed that "peace is possible" and that "we must not resign ourselves."

Additionally, as part of his peace efforts in Ukraine, the Pope has sent a special envoy, Italian Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, to Kyiv, Moscow, Washington, and Beijing.

<h2>What is Zelensky's peace plan?</h2>

The Ukrainian leader, as per Reuters, has said that his nation's peace formula will next be discussed in Davos, Switzerland. However, he is yet to reveal the date.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-russians-sent-to-jail-for-reciting-poetry-against-ukraine-invasion-674407">Two Russians sent to jail for reciting poetry against Ukraine invasion</a>

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky first announced his 10-point peace formula in November 2022, at a summit of the Group of 20 major economies. The plan calls for:

1. Radiation and nuclear safety, with a focus on Europe's largest nuclear power plant, Zaporizhzhia.

2. Food security, including a restoration of Ukraine's grain exports to the world's poorest nations.

3. Energy security, with a focus on protecting Ukraine's infrastructure that has been targeted by Russia and price restrictions on Russian energy resources.

4. 'All for all' release of prisoners and deportees, including war prisoners and children deported to Russia.

5. Restoring Ukraine's territorial integrity and Russia reaffirming it according to the UN Charter, which the peace plan says is "not up to negotiations".

6. Withdrawal of Russian troops and cessation of hostilities, including the restoration of Ukraine's state borders with Russia.

7. Justice, with the focus on the establishment of a special tribunal to prosecute Russian for war crimes it has allegedly committed.

8. Immediate protection of environment.

9. Prevention of escalation of conflict, and building mechanism to "prevent any chance of its repetition. For this it demands the set-up of security architecture in the Euro-Atlantic space, including guarantees for Ukraine.

10. Confirmation of the war's end, that comes with an official document signed by the involved parties.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in a call with Pope Francis on Thursday discussed Ukraine's peace formula. Taking to X, formerly Twitter, the leader of the war-torn nation said that he and the head of the Catholic Church discussed "joint work" to put into action Ukraine's peace plan.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in a call with Pope Francis on Thursday discussed Ukraine's peace formula. Taking to X, formerly Twitter, the leader of the war-torn nation said that he and the head of the Catholic Church discussed "joint work" to put into action Ukraine's peace plan. Discussions and more In the X post, Zelensky wrote that he and the Pontiff "discussed our joint work to put Ukraine's Peace Formula into action." "Over 80 countries are already involved in this process at the level of their representatives. And there will be more of them," he added. Also read | Russia’s star-studded ‘almost naked’ party triggers severe backlash | Here’s what happened He also said that he expressed his gratitude "to His Holiness for his Christmas greetings to Ukraine and Ukrainians, as well as his wishes for a just peace for all of us." "I am grateful to the Holy See for supporting our efforts." I just had a call with @Pontifex Pope Francis. I expressed my gratitude to His Holiness for his Christmas greetings to Ukraine and Ukrainians, as well as his wishes for a just peace for all of us. We discussed our joint work to put Ukraine’s Peace Formula into action. Over 80… pic.twitter.com/212O8mN8dt — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) December 28, 2023 × The Pope and Ukraine The Pope in his Christmas Day Message had called for an end to the multiple global conflicts, including the one in Ukraine. Before that, in November, renewing his persistent calls for an end to violence in Ukraine and the Middle East, he had stressed that "peace is possible" and that "we must not resign ourselves." Additionally, as part of his peace efforts in Ukraine, the Pope has sent a special envoy, Italian Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, to Kyiv, Moscow, Washington, and Beijing. What is Zelensky's peace plan? The Ukrainian leader, as per Reuters, has said that his nation's peace formula will next be discussed in Davos, Switzerland. However, he is yet to reveal the date. Also read | Two Russians sent to jail for reciting poetry against Ukraine invasion Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky first announced his 10-point peace formula in November 2022, at a summit of the Group of 20 major economies. The plan calls for: 1. Radiation and nuclear safety, with a focus on Europe's largest nuclear power plant, Zaporizhzhia. 2. Food security, including a restoration of Ukraine's grain exports to the world's poorest nations. 3. Energy security, with a focus on protecting Ukraine's infrastructure that has been targeted by Russia and price restrictions on Russian energy resources. 4. 'All for all' release of prisoners and deportees, including war prisoners and children deported to Russia. 5. Restoring Ukraine's territorial integrity and Russia reaffirming it according to the UN Charter, which the peace plan says is "not up to negotiations". 6. Withdrawal of Russian troops and cessation of hostilities, including the restoration of Ukraine's state borders with Russia. 7. Justice, with the focus on the establishment of a special tribunal to prosecute Russian for war crimes it has allegedly committed. 8. Immediate protection of environment. 9. Prevention of escalation of conflict, and building mechanism to "prevent any chance of its repetition. For this it demands the set-up of security architecture in the Euro-Atlantic space, including guarantees for Ukraine. 10. Confirmation of the war's end, that comes with an official document signed by the involved parties.

Volodymyr Zelensky and Pope Francis discuss Ukraine's Peace Plan

A draft law published on Ukraine's parliament website suggests that the war-torn nation is considering a proposal to lower the age for combat duty mobilisation from 27 to 25.&nbsp;This development comes as the battle between Ukraine and Russia stretches to 22 months.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine's new conscription law</h2>

As per Reuters, the draft legislation outlines the criteria for the military registration of conscripts. It specifies that if passed the new law would apply to Ukrainian citizens "who have reached the age of 25".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-it-conducted-air-strike-on-crimea-destroying-russian-warship-673600">Ukraine says it conducted air strike on Crimea, destroying Russian warship</a>

In an explanatory note signed by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, the summary of key provisions emphasises the "change of conscription age from 27 to 25 years."

<h2>Zelensky yet to endorse</h2>

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, earlier this month, during his end-of-year news conference on December 19, disclosed that the military has proposed mobilising an additional 450,000-500,000 Ukrainians.&nbsp;

Acknowledging the "highly sensitive" nature of the issue, he said that between the military and the government would precede any decision to submit the proposal to parliament.

Zelensky is yet to publicly endorse the proposal. Expressing his desire to hear more arguments in favour of mobilising additional personnel, he said, "This is a very serious number".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/putin-clears-rosbanks-acquisition-of-societe-generales-russian-holdings-673589">Putin clears Rosbank's acquisition of Societe Generale's Russian holdings</a>

While the exact troop numbers in Ukraine remain undisclosed, it has been previously mentioned that the country has approximately a million people under arms.&nbsp;

US&nbsp;officials estimate significant casualties since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, though specific figures are not published by either country.

As per David Arakhamia, the head of Zelensky's party in parliament, the bill was due to be introduced on Monday (Dec 25). He said that the government is working on the bill at the military's request. Taking to Telegram, he highlighted the necessity of providing solutions to the military's challenges and said: "The military needs a solution to its problems".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A draft law published on Ukraine's parliament website suggests that the war-torn nation is considering a proposal to lower the age for combat duty mobilisation from 27 to 25.

A draft law published on Ukraine's parliament website suggests that the war-torn nation is considering a proposal to lower the age for combat duty mobilisation from 27 to 25. This development comes as the battle between Ukraine and Russia stretches to 22 months. Ukraine's new conscription law As per Reuters, the draft legislation outlines the criteria for the military registration of conscripts. It specifies that if passed the new law would apply to Ukrainian citizens "who have reached the age of 25". Also read | Ukraine says it conducted air strike on Crimea, destroying Russian warship In an explanatory note signed by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, the summary of key provisions emphasises the "change of conscription age from 27 to 25 years." Zelensky yet to endorse Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, earlier this month, during his end-of-year news conference on December 19, disclosed that the military has proposed mobilising an additional 450,000-500,000 Ukrainians. Acknowledging the "highly sensitive" nature of the issue, he said that between the military and the government would precede any decision to submit the proposal to parliament. Zelensky is yet to publicly endorse the proposal. Expressing his desire to hear more arguments in favour of mobilising additional personnel, he said, "This is a very serious number". Also read | Putin clears Rosbank's acquisition of Societe Generale's Russian holdings While the exact troop numbers in Ukraine remain undisclosed, it has been previously mentioned that the country has approximately a million people under arms. US officials estimate significant casualties since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, though specific figures are not published by either country. As per David Arakhamia, the head of Zelensky's party in parliament, the bill was due to be introduced on Monday (Dec 25). He said that the government is working on the bill at the military's request. Taking to Telegram, he highlighted the necessity of providing solutions to the military's challenges and said: "The military needs a solution to its problems". (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine considers lowering military mobilisation age to 25, almost two years into war with Russia

The Russia-Ukraine war has crossed into its 651st day, and Kyiv is struggling for funds.&nbsp;As the US Congress continues to ponder over the $60 billion aid proposal by President Joe Biden, on Tuesday, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said that the funding request failure means the country would be "responsible for Ukraine's defeat".&nbsp;

<h2>What Yellen said</h2>

On Tuesday, during a trip to Mexico City, Yellen told reporters that the funding - particularly for Ukraine's general government budget suppor was "utterly essential" and that it was a pre-condition to keep International Monetary Fund (IMF) support flowing to war-torn Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-russia-rejected-substantial-proposal-to-free-two-americans-666795">US says Russia rejected 'substantial' proposal to free two Americans</a>

"I've talked to members of Congress, my colleagues have. I think they understand this, that this is a dire situation and we can hold ourselves responsible for Ukraine's defeat if we don't manage to get this funding to Ukraine that's needed, and I'm including direct budget support here because that's utterly essential," said Yellen.

"Ukraine is just running out of money," she said.&nbsp;

"They’re spending more than every penny they're taking in, in tax revenue, on military salaries and defence, and they wouldn’t have any schools or hospital or first responders if not for the money we’re sending to them to support them."

This comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's chief of staff voiced a similar warning.

<h2>A 'big risk'</h2>

Also on Tuesday, Andriy Yermak said that the postponement of US assistance would create a "big risk" of Ukraine losing the war against Russia.

These remarks, as per Reuters, were some of the frankest yet by a senior Kyiv official.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-watches-nuclear-button-as-he-observes-recreated-explosion-666542">Russian President Vladimir Putin watches 'nuclear button' as he observes re-created explosion</a>

He said that if the aid is postponed, "it gives the big risk that we can be in the same position to which we're located now."

"And of course, it makes this very high possibility impossible to continually liberate and give the big risk to lose this war," he added.

<h2>Zelensky's upcoming video&nbsp;summit with G7 leaders</h2>

Just hours after he unexpectedly skipped a virtual meeting with US senators, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will join a video summit with the leaders of the G7.

The summit is slated to be held on Wednesday (Dec 6). As per chair Japan's spokesperson Hirokazu Matsuno, the meeting will see Zelensky "join the first part".

Zelensky, during the meeting with US senators, was expected to press them for the $60 billion aid package.&nbsp;

During the video meeting, the talks, as per a Reuters report citing a White House official, are expected to cover Ukraine, the Middle East, support for developing countries, and artificial intelligence.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Russia-Ukraine war has crossed into its 651st day, and Kyiv is struggling for funds. As the US Congress continues to ponder over the $60 billion aid proposal by President Joe Biden, on Tuesday, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said that the funding request failure means the country would be "responsible for Ukraine's defeat".

The Russia-Ukraine war has crossed into its 651st day, and Kyiv is struggling for funds. As the US Congress continues to ponder over the $60 billion aid proposal by President Joe Biden, on Tuesday, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said that the funding request failure means the country would be "responsible for Ukraine's defeat". What Yellen said On Tuesday, during a trip to Mexico City, Yellen told reporters that the funding - particularly for Ukraine's general government budget suppor was "utterly essential" and that it was a pre-condition to keep International Monetary Fund (IMF) support flowing to war-torn Ukraine. Also read | US says Russia rejected 'substantial' proposal to free two Americans "I've talked to members of Congress, my colleagues have. I think they understand this, that this is a dire situation and we can hold ourselves responsible for Ukraine's defeat if we don't manage to get this funding to Ukraine that's needed, and I'm including direct budget support here because that's utterly essential," said Yellen. "Ukraine is just running out of money," she said. "They’re spending more than every penny they're taking in, in tax revenue, on military salaries and defence, and they wouldn’t have any schools or hospital or first responders if not for the money we’re sending to them to support them." This comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's chief of staff voiced a similar warning. A 'big risk' Also on Tuesday, Andriy Yermak said that the postponement of US assistance would create a "big risk" of Ukraine losing the war against Russia. These remarks, as per Reuters, were some of the frankest yet by a senior Kyiv official. Also read | Russian President Vladimir Putin watches 'nuclear button' as he observes re-created explosion He said that if the aid is postponed, "it gives the big risk that we can be in the same position to which we're located now." "And of course, it makes this very high possibility impossible to continually liberate and give the big risk to lose this war," he added. Zelensky's upcoming video summit with G7 leaders Just hours after he unexpectedly skipped a virtual meeting with US senators, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will join a video summit with the leaders of the G7. The summit is slated to be held on Wednesday (Dec 6). As per chair Japan's spokesperson Hirokazu Matsuno, the meeting will see Zelensky "join the first part". Zelensky, during the meeting with US senators, was expected to press them for the $60 billion aid package. During the video meeting, the talks, as per a Reuters report citing a White House official, are expected to cover Ukraine, the Middle East, support for developing countries, and artificial intelligence. (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky to virtually meet G7 leaders as Ukraine faces 'big risk' of losing war due to delayed US aid

Ukraine has launched an investigation into the alleged "execution" of two Ukrainian soldiers near the embattled town of Avdiivka.&nbsp;

The soldiers, as per The Guardian, had emerged from their trench when they were gunned down. Reportedly, even as one of them raised his arms in surrender, they were shot dead at point-blank range by Russian forces. 
&nbsp; 
The incident, which was captured on video, has led to condemnation from Ukrainian officials.

<h2>Crime by 'Russian terrorists'</h2>

The soldiers, as per the Deep State channel on Telegram, were part of Ukraine’s 45th Separate Motorised Rifle Brigade. They were forced to abandon their trench due to a lack of ammunition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyiv-claims-russia-shot-down-ukrainian-soldiers-who-surrendered-665856">Kyiv claims Russia shot down Ukrainian soldiers who surrendered</a>

According to Ukraine’s parliament speaker, Ruslan Stefanchuk, the video footage, filmed near the village of Stepove,&nbsp;revealed a violation of the rules of war.

Taking to social media platform X, he posted: "This is another crime committed by Russian terrorists. Violation of the rules of war. The killing of unarmed soldiers".

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Execution of Ukrainian soldiers by russians when they surrendered. 
 
This is another crime committed by russian terrorists. Violation of the rules of war. The killing of unarmed soldiers. 
 
russia has once again proved that it is a terrorist country for which there are no laws and… <a href="https://t.co/rcyapnbD8R">pic.twitter.com/rcyapnbD8R</a>
— Ruslan Stefanchuk (@r_stefanchuk) <a href="https://twitter.com/r_stefanchuk/status/1731222555120255350?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"Russia has once again proved that it is a terrorist country for which there are no laws and norms of international law," he added.

The purported video was shared on X by some users. You can watch it here.

User discretion is advised

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💔 Russian war criminals shot two of our soldiers who surrendered as prisoners in the Avdiivka direction 
 
P.S. F*cking bloody bastards... <a href="https://t.co/22YzFA8t9T">pic.twitter.com/22YzFA8t9T</a>
— MAKS 23 👀🇺🇦 (@Maks_NAFO_FELLA) <a href="https://twitter.com/Maks_NAFO_FELLA/status/1730936887269818768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>All part of the war</h2>

The killing was characterised by pro-Kremlin military bloggers as part of the war.&nbsp;

"In war, unfortunately, such events happen. Only a small part gets into the frame," said one commentator as quoted by The Guardian.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-former-president-alleges-was-blocked-from-leaving-nation-665714">Ukraine’s former president claims he was stopped from leaving country</a>

The commentator posting under the name Rybar added that the "speed of decision-making in the heat of battle" was "a matter of life and death".

<h2>Russia's offensive against Avdiivka</h2>

The Russian military command began its major offensive against Avdiivka in October. For nearly two months, Russian forces have been attempting to encircle the town&nbsp;located in eastern Ukraine.&nbsp;

Despite significant losses, Russia has made progress in capturing parts of the region.&nbsp;

On Sunday, Avdiivka's military administration mayor, Vitaliy Barabash, stated that Ukrainian troops were holding firm&nbsp;and the Russian advance seemed to be "running out of steam."

<h2>International concerns</h2>

In an interview with German TV, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg warned of a "critical situation" in Ukraine and said that it could worsen given the "insufficient western assistance".

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos&nbsp;and&nbsp;videos. 
&nbsp;

Ukraine has launched an investigation into the alleged "execution" of two Ukrainian soldiers near the embattled town of Avdiivka. The soldiers, as per The Guardian, had emerged from their trench when they were gunned down.

Ukraine has launched an investigation into the alleged "execution" of two Ukrainian soldiers near the embattled town of Avdiivka. The soldiers, as per The Guardian, had emerged from their trench when they were gunned down. Reportedly, even as one of them raised his arms in surrender, they were shot dead at point-blank range by Russian forces. The incident, which was captured on video, has led to condemnation from Ukrainian officials. Crime by 'Russian terrorists' The soldiers, as per the Deep State channel on Telegram, were part of Ukraine’s 45th Separate Motorised Rifle Brigade. They were forced to abandon their trench due to a lack of ammunition. Also read | Kyiv claims Russia shot down Ukrainian soldiers who surrendered According to Ukraine’s parliament speaker, Ruslan Stefanchuk, the video footage, filmed near the village of Stepove, revealed a violation of the rules of war. Taking to social media platform X, he posted: "This is another crime committed by Russian terrorists. Violation of the rules of war. The killing of unarmed soldiers". Execution of Ukrainian soldiers by russians when they surrendered. This is another crime committed by russian terrorists. Violation of the rules of war. The killing of unarmed soldiers. russia has once again proved that it is a terrorist country for which there are no laws and… pic.twitter.com/rcyapnbD8R — Ruslan Stefanchuk (@r_stefanchuk) December 3, 2023 × "Russia has once again proved that it is a terrorist country for which there are no laws and norms of international law," he added. The purported video was shared on X by some users. You can watch it here. User discretion is advised 💔 Russian war criminals shot two of our soldiers who surrendered as prisoners in the Avdiivka direction P.S. F*cking bloody bastards... pic.twitter.com/22YzFA8t9T — MAKS 23 👀🇺🇦 (@Maks_NAFO_FELLA) December 2, 2023 × All part of the war The killing was characterised by pro-Kremlin military bloggers as part of the war. "In war, unfortunately, such events happen. Only a small part gets into the frame," said one commentator as quoted by The Guardian. Also read | Ukraine’s former president claims he was stopped from leaving country The commentator posting under the name Rybar added that the "speed of decision-making in the heat of battle" was "a matter of life and death". Russia's offensive against Avdiivka The Russian military command began its major offensive against Avdiivka in October. For nearly two months, Russian forces have been attempting to encircle the town located in eastern Ukraine. Despite significant losses, Russia has made progress in capturing parts of the region. On Sunday, Avdiivka's military administration mayor, Vitaliy Barabash, stated that Ukrainian troops were holding firm and the Russian advance seemed to be "running out of steam." International concerns In an interview with German TV, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg warned of a "critical situation" in Ukraine and said that it could worsen given the "insufficient western assistance". Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukraine launches investigation into alleged Russian execution of surrendering Ukrainian soldiers

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;has called for urgent changes in the nation's military operations, coinciding with the dismissal of Major-General Tetiana Ostashchenko, the commander of the Armed Forces Medical Forces. This move follows debates on the progress of the 20-month-long conflict with Russia.

Zelensky's demand for rapid changes was emphasised during a meeting with Defence Minister Rustem Umerov. He stressed the need for swift action to bring about forthcoming changes in the ongoing conflict.

Major-General Tetiana Ostashchenko, responsible for the Armed Forces Medical Forces, has been replaced by Major-General Anatoliy Kazmirchuk. Zelensky highlighted the imperative for a fundamental enhancement in medical support, addressing issues such as improved tourniquets, digitalisation, and enhanced communication.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-ukrainian-troops-secure-several-bridgeheads-along-dnipro-river-659866">Also read | Ukrainian troops secure several bridgeheads along Dnipro river, push out Russian soldier</a>

<h2>Defence minister's priorities</h2>

Acknowledging the change, Defence Minister Umerov outlined key priorities on the Telegram messaging app. These include digitalisation, a focus on "tactical medicine," and the implementation of a servicemen rotation system.

Also watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war | Russian drone attack hits Ukrainan infrastructure: Zelensky

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Ukraine's military reported advancements in reclaiming occupied territories in the east and south. Troops gained control of areas along the Dnipro River's eastern bank in the southern Kherson region. General Valery Zaluzhniy, the Ukrainian commander-in-chief, emphasised the need for advanced technology to counter the Russian military, indicating a new phase of attrition in the conflict.

While acknowledging the time required for advances, Zelensky rejected the idea of a stalemate in the war. He urged Western partners, particularly the United States, to continue providing military support to Ukraine.

Ostashchenko's removal follows speculation by a Ukrainian news outlet, suggesting imminent changes after consultations with paramedics and officials responsible for military support.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for urgent changes in the nation's military operations, coinciding with the dismissal of Major-General Tetiana Ostashchenko, the commander of the Armed Forces Medical Forces.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for urgent changes in the nation's military operations, coinciding with the dismissal of Major-General Tetiana Ostashchenko, the commander of the Armed Forces Medical Forces. This move follows debates on the progress of the 20-month-long conflict with Russia. Zelensky's demand for rapid changes was emphasised during a meeting with Defence Minister Rustem Umerov. He stressed the need for swift action to bring about forthcoming changes in the ongoing conflict. Major-General Tetiana Ostashchenko, responsible for the Armed Forces Medical Forces, has been replaced by Major-General Anatoliy Kazmirchuk. Zelensky highlighted the imperative for a fundamental enhancement in medical support, addressing issues such as improved tourniquets, digitalisation, and enhanced communication. Also read | Ukrainian troops secure several bridgeheads along Dnipro river, push out Russian soldier Defence minister's priorities Acknowledging the change, Defence Minister Umerov outlined key priorities on the Telegram messaging app. These include digitalisation, a focus on "tactical medicine," and the implementation of a servicemen rotation system. Also watch | Russia-Ukraine war | Russian drone attack hits Ukrainan infrastructure: Zelensky Ukraine's military reported advancements in reclaiming occupied territories in the east and south. Troops gained control of areas along the Dnipro River's eastern bank in the southern Kherson region. General Valery Zaluzhniy, the Ukrainian commander-in-chief, emphasised the need for advanced technology to counter the Russian military, indicating a new phase of attrition in the conflict. While acknowledging the time required for advances, Zelensky rejected the idea of a stalemate in the war. He urged Western partners, particularly the United States, to continue providing military support to Ukraine. Ostashchenko's removal follows speculation by a Ukrainian news outlet, suggesting imminent changes after consultations with paramedics and officials responsible for military support. (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky initiates military overhaul, dismisses medical forces commander in Ukraine

Russia as per reports plans to block Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and protocols that it deems a threat. As per&nbsp;Russian state news agency RIA report, only certain VPN networks face the threat of a ban.

<h2>Which VPN services are vulnerable?</h2>

The RIA news agency report did not mention any particular VPN networks, instead, it said that certain Virtual Private Networks and protocols which are believed to be a threat will be banned.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-zelensky-lie-all-this-while-new-report-claims-ukrainian-military-officer-coordinated-nord-stream-sabotage-657729">Did Zelensky lie all this while? New report claims Ukrainian military officer coordinated Nord Stream sabotage</a>

Quoting correspondence from Russian digital ministry, it reported that a commission of experts will take the decision about whether a VPN poses a threat or not.

<h2>Russian lawmaker expresses concern</h2>

Lawmaker Anton Tkachev has voiced concerns about alleged plans by the Russian government to effectively block all Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).&nbsp;

Tkachev argued that implementing a broad restriction on all VPNs would intensify pressure on Russians, restricting their access to everyday devices. The move, if enforced, could impact citizens' ability to use common household appliances that rely on internet connectivity, he said.

Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-air-defenders-shot-down-russian-missiles-as-kyiv-pounded-for-first-attack-in-months-657697">Ukraine's air defenders shoot down Russian missiles as Kyiv is pounded for first time in months</a>

In response to Tkachev's address, the digital ministry as quoted by the RIA has issued a reply. It said that "On the basis of a decision by the expert commission… the filtration of certain VPN services and VPN protocols can be carried out on the mobile communication network for foreign traffic which is identified as a threat."

<h2>Russia and VPNs</h2>

Russia as per Reuters put in place restrictions on access to certain Western social media platforms after President Vladimir Putin ordered the deployment of troops into Ukraine in February 2022.&nbsp;

Following that, the demand for VPN services experienced a significant surge. According to RIA, the Russian digital ministry has identified this circumvention of restrictions on specific information as a potential threat.

Previously, in 2017, Russia implemented a law mandating VPN technology providers to collaborate with Russian authorities, compelling them to restrict access to content banned by Russia. Failure to comply with this law could result in prohibition. However, despite these regulations, VPN services continue to be widely used in Russia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia as per reports plans to block Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and protocols that it deems a threat. As per Russian state news agency RIA report, only certain VPN networks face the threat of a ban.

Russia as per reports plans to block Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and protocols that it deems a threat. As per Russian state news agency RIA report, only certain VPN networks face the threat of a ban. Which VPN services are vulnerable? The RIA news agency report did not mention any particular VPN networks, instead, it said that certain Virtual Private Networks and protocols which are believed to be a threat will be banned. Also read | Did Zelensky lie all this while? New report claims Ukrainian military officer coordinated Nord Stream sabotage Quoting correspondence from Russian digital ministry, it reported that a commission of experts will take the decision about whether a VPN poses a threat or not. Russian lawmaker expresses concern Lawmaker Anton Tkachev has voiced concerns about alleged plans by the Russian government to effectively block all Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). Tkachev argued that implementing a broad restriction on all VPNs would intensify pressure on Russians, restricting their access to everyday devices. The move, if enforced, could impact citizens' ability to use common household appliances that rely on internet connectivity, he said. Also read | Ukraine's air defenders shoot down Russian missiles as Kyiv is pounded for first time in months In response to Tkachev's address, the digital ministry as quoted by the RIA has issued a reply. It said that "On the basis of a decision by the expert commission… the filtration of certain VPN services and VPN protocols can be carried out on the mobile communication network for foreign traffic which is identified as a threat." Russia and VPNs Russia as per Reuters put in place restrictions on access to certain Western social media platforms after President Vladimir Putin ordered the deployment of troops into Ukraine in February 2022. Following that, the demand for VPN services experienced a significant surge. According to RIA, the Russian digital ministry has identified this circumvention of restrictions on specific information as a potential threat. Previously, in 2017, Russia implemented a law mandating VPN technology providers to collaborate with Russian authorities, compelling them to restrict access to content banned by Russia. Failure to comply with this law could result in prohibition. However, despite these regulations, VPN services continue to be widely used in Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia to ban VPN services 'identified as a threat'

Republican White House hopeful and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy slammed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;on Wednesday (Nov 8) during the third&nbsp;GOP&nbsp;debate. Ramaswamy called Zelensky, who is Jewish, a “Nazi” during the debate in Miami, Florida and reiterated Republican talking points which have sought to cut aid for Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Comedian in cargo pants’</h2>

In a series of scathing remarks against the Ukrainian president, Ramaswamy seemingly accused Zelensky of being a Nazi when asked about his recent plea for more aid from the United States during the debate. The Ukrainian president, who is Jewish, lost family members in the Holocaust.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-desantis-claims-he-saved-americans-stuck-in-conflict-when-biden-left-them-stranded-656789">Israel-Hamas war: DeSantis claims he saved Americans stuck in conflict, when Biden 'left them stranded'</a>

While a number of Republicans on the stage said they would support the idea of sending more aid to Ukraine, Ramaswamy – an aggressive critic of American aid to Ukraine – said, “Ukraine is not a paragon of democracy,” adding “It has celebrated a Nazi in its ranks. A comedian in cargo pants. The man called Zelensky. That is not democratic.”

The US presidential hopeful also said, “This is a country that has banned 11 opposition parties. It has consolidated all media into one state TV media arm – that’s not democratic. It has threatened not to hold elections this year unless the US forks over more money – that is not democratic.”&nbsp;

“To frame this as some battle between good versus evil – don’t buy it,” Ramaswamy claimed.

So far, the US Congress has approved about $113 billion in aid for Kyiv.&nbsp;

<h2>Ramaswamy's remarks garner criticism</h2>

The remarks quickly garnered criticism, with many taking to social media and saying Ramaswamy is playing into Russian talking points.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republican-presidential-debate-nikki-haley-clashes-on-stage-with-vivek-ramaswamy-calls-him-scum-656797">Republican presidential debate: Nikki Haley clashes with Vivek Ramaswamy, calls him 'scum'</a>

“Repeating offensive Kremlin talking points is an odd way to try to win votes in the USA,” retired Navy admiral James Stavridis wrote on X.

This comes as Russia has repeatedly attacked the Ukrainian government and officials by calling them Nazis. President Vladimir Putin in his speech just before launching what Moscow calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine said that the goal of his offensive was to “denazify” Kyiv.&nbsp;

<h2>What did his campaign say?</h2>

Tricia McLaughlin, a spokesperson for Ramaswamy’s campaign, in an interview with the New York Times later clarified that he did not call Zelensky a Nazi, but was instead referring to an incident in the Canadian parliament back in September.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trudeau-issues-apology-for-standing-ovation-to-nazi-veteran-in-canadian-parliament-640402">Trudeau issues apology for standing ovation to Nazi veteran in Canadian Parliament</a>

During his visit to Canada, the Ukrainian president joined a standing ovation honouring a 98-year-old Ukrainian Canadian war veteran, Yaroslav Hunka. But it turned out later that Hunka&nbsp;in fact served in a division that was under Nazi control during World War II.&nbsp;

McLaughlin said that Ramaswamy was referring to Zelensky’s joining in the applause. However, she also did acknowledge that without context, that remark can be misunderstood. “He was talking quickly and kind of oscillated in his words,” McLaughlin told the New York Times.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Republican White House hopeful and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy slammed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (Nov 8) during the third GOP debate. Ramaswamy called Zelensky, who is Jewish, a “Nazi” during the debate in Miami, Florida and reiterated Republican talking points which have sought to cut aid for Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia.

Republican White House hopeful and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy slammed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (Nov 8) during the third GOP debate. Ramaswamy called Zelensky, who is Jewish, a “Nazi” during the debate in Miami, Florida and reiterated Republican talking points which have sought to cut aid for Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia. ‘Comedian in cargo pants’ In a series of scathing remarks against the Ukrainian president, Ramaswamy seemingly accused Zelensky of being a Nazi when asked about his recent plea for more aid from the United States during the debate. The Ukrainian president, who is Jewish, lost family members in the Holocaust. ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war: DeSantis claims he saved Americans stuck in conflict, when Biden 'left them stranded' While a number of Republicans on the stage said they would support the idea of sending more aid to Ukraine, Ramaswamy – an aggressive critic of American aid to Ukraine – said, “Ukraine is not a paragon of democracy,” adding “It has celebrated a Nazi in its ranks. A comedian in cargo pants. The man called Zelensky. That is not democratic.” The US presidential hopeful also said, “This is a country that has banned 11 opposition parties. It has consolidated all media into one state TV media arm – that’s not democratic. It has threatened not to hold elections this year unless the US forks over more money – that is not democratic.” “To frame this as some battle between good versus evil – don’t buy it,” Ramaswamy claimed. So far, the US Congress has approved about $113 billion in aid for Kyiv. Ramaswamy's remarks garner criticism The remarks quickly garnered criticism, with many taking to social media and saying Ramaswamy is playing into Russian talking points. ALSO READ | Republican presidential debate: Nikki Haley clashes with Vivek Ramaswamy, calls him 'scum' “Repeating offensive Kremlin talking points is an odd way to try to win votes in the USA,” retired Navy admiral James Stavridis wrote on X. This comes as Russia has repeatedly attacked the Ukrainian government and officials by calling them Nazis. President Vladimir Putin in his speech just before launching what Moscow calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine said that the goal of his offensive was to “denazify” Kyiv. What did his campaign say? Tricia McLaughlin, a spokesperson for Ramaswamy’s campaign, in an interview with the New York Times later clarified that he did not call Zelensky a Nazi, but was instead referring to an incident in the Canadian parliament back in September. ALSO READ | Trudeau issues apology for standing ovation to Nazi veteran in Canadian Parliament During his visit to Canada, the Ukrainian president joined a standing ovation honouring a 98-year-old Ukrainian Canadian war veteran, Yaroslav Hunka. But it turned out later that Hunka in fact served in a division that was under Nazi control during World War II. McLaughlin said that Ramaswamy was referring to Zelensky’s joining in the applause. However, she also did acknowledge that without context, that remark can be misunderstood. “He was talking quickly and kind of oscillated in his words,” McLaughlin told the New York Times. (With inputs from agencies)

Vivek Ramaswamy calls Ukraine’s Zelensky ‘Nazi’ during GOP presidential debate; campaign clarifies remark

Germany wants Ukraine to begin formal talks on joining the European Union (EU) by the end of the year.&nbsp;Speaking at a conference in Berlin, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock on Thursday said that she was confident that next month the EU would advance Kyiv's membership bid.

<h2>EU enlargement</h2>

Baerbock, as per a Reuters report, presented the prospect of the bloc's enlargement as a geo-strategic necessity.

She suggested that candidate nations should be given some of the benefits of an EU membership even before they fully enter the bloc.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-endures-biggest-russian-attack-since-start-of-the-year-with-over-100-settlements-targeted-654270">Ukraine endures 'biggest Russian attack since start of the year' with over 100 settlements targeted</a>

The German minister said there was a need to plough ahead with "tedious" internal reforms so that it could function with 30-plus members and greater centralisation of power within the EU.&nbsp;

According to the Times, she proposed this could be done by stripping individual countries of their veto rights and simplification of the sprawling administrative apparatus — under which 27 member states are in charge of their own individual policy brief.

"We want to see Ukraine a member of our European Union," she said, adding, "The European Union has to be enlarged. That is the geo-political consequence of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-support-for-kyiv-waning-most-americans-believe-ukraine-war-is-at-stalemate-654610">US support for Kyiv waning? Most Americans believe Ukraine war is at stalemate</a>

<h2>EU to decide soon</h2>

As per Reuters, the EU will soon reach a decision on the start of talks about Ukraine joining the bloc. They are expected to reach a decision about the beginning of the formal start of Kyiv's membership talks at the December 14-15 summit.

"I am convinced that the European Council in December is going to send out that signal," said the German Minister.

"However, an enlarged EU will only be stronger if we do what we have been so hesitant to do for so long - review and rethink the way in which our union functions," she added.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine 'optimistic'</h2>

AFP reports that speaking ahead of the conference in Berlin, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that Kyiv was optimistic about its efforts to open EU membership talks this year.

"We are optimistic. We did a lot of reforms and we passed legislation necessary to meet, to implement the recommendations," said Kuleba.&nbsp;

"So we are looking forward to the presentation of this report and I have reasons to believe that it will pave the way to the decision of the European Council on opening accession talks with Ukraine."

The war-torn nation applied for the supranational political and economic union's membership just days after Russia launched its invasion on 24 February 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany wants Ukraine to begin formal talks on joining the European Union (EU) by the end of the year. Speaking at a conference in Berlin, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock on Thursday said that she was confident that next month the EU would advance Kyiv's membership bid.

Germany wants Ukraine to begin formal talks on joining the European Union (EU) by the end of the year. Speaking at a conference in Berlin, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock on Thursday said that she was confident that next month the EU would advance Kyiv's membership bid. EU enlargement Baerbock, as per a Reuters report, presented the prospect of the bloc's enlargement as a geo-strategic necessity. She suggested that candidate nations should be given some of the benefits of an EU membership even before they fully enter the bloc. Also read | Ukraine endures 'biggest Russian attack since start of the year' with over 100 settlements targeted The German minister said there was a need to plough ahead with "tedious" internal reforms so that it could function with 30-plus members and greater centralisation of power within the EU. According to the Times, she proposed this could be done by stripping individual countries of their veto rights and simplification of the sprawling administrative apparatus — under which 27 member states are in charge of their own individual policy brief. "We want to see Ukraine a member of our European Union," she said, adding, "The European Union has to be enlarged. That is the geo-political consequence of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine." Also read | US support for Kyiv waning? Most Americans believe Ukraine war is at stalemate EU to decide soon As per Reuters, the EU will soon reach a decision on the start of talks about Ukraine joining the bloc. They are expected to reach a decision about the beginning of the formal start of Kyiv's membership talks at the December 14-15 summit. "I am convinced that the European Council in December is going to send out that signal," said the German Minister. "However, an enlarged EU will only be stronger if we do what we have been so hesitant to do for so long - review and rethink the way in which our union functions," she added. Ukraine 'optimistic' AFP reports that speaking ahead of the conference in Berlin, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that Kyiv was optimistic about its efforts to open EU membership talks this year. "We are optimistic. We did a lot of reforms and we passed legislation necessary to meet, to implement the recommendations," said Kuleba. "So we are looking forward to the presentation of this report and I have reasons to believe that it will pave the way to the decision of the European Council on opening accession talks with Ukraine." The war-torn nation applied for the supranational political and economic union's membership just days after Russia launched its invasion on 24 February 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany bats for Ukraine's EU membership, says formal talks could get greenlit next month

Ukraine has endured the worst Russian shelling since the start of the year. As per Ukrainian officials, on Wednesday, more than 100 of the country's settlements were shelled by Moscow. &nbsp;

This, as per Kyiv, was the highest number of shellings it has borne in a single day since the Ukraine-Russia war began.&nbsp;

<h2>Biggest attack</h2>

Taking to social media,&nbsp;Igor Klymenko, Ukraine's interior minister, stated, "Over the last 24 hours, the enemy shelled 118 settlements in 10 regions."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-expect-rapid-success-in-offensive-says-zelensky-un-confirms-death-of-over-9900-civilians-in-ukraine-653703">Don’t expect rapid success in offensive, says Zelensky; UN confirms death of over 9,900 civilians in Ukraine</a>

This, he said, "is the highest number of cities and villages that have come under attack since the start of the year."

<h2>Ukrainian oil refinery ablaze</h2>

As per a Reuters report, a Russian drone attack set ablaze the Kremenchuk oil refinery in central Ukraine. The fire, according to Filip Pronin, head of the Poltava region's military administration, was quickly put out. However, the extent of the damage is not known at the moment.&nbsp;

It also damaged power lines and an unnamed infrastructure facility, knocking out the power supply in three villages in the Poltava region.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Battle of drones on frontlines, Ukraine deploys in-house 'shark' drones

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"The focus of the attack was the Poltava region, it was attacked in several waves," said Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat during an address on national television.

However, as per Kyiv, its forces have repelled Moscow's attacks in frontline sectors in the east and northeast.

The Air Force said that its air defences successfully foiled attacks on military and critical infrastructure, shooting down 18 of 20 drones and a missile fired by Russia.

<h2>A new stage of fighting</h2>

In an article in The Economist, Ukraine's commander-in-chief, on Wednesday, warned that the war with Russia is moving towards a new stage of static and attritional fighting. This, as per General Valery Zaluzhnyi, will allow Moscow to rebuild its military power.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-denies-us-russian-journalists-appeal-against-detention-653683">Russia denies US-Russian journalist's appeal against detention</a>

"This will benefit Russia, allowing it to rebuild its military power, eventually threatening Ukraine's armed forces and the state itself."

To continue their fight in the war that has already stretched to its 21st month, General Zaluzhnyi said Ukraine's army needed "key military capabilities and technologies to break out of this kind of war. The most important one is air power"

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine has endured the worst Russian shelling since the start of the year. As per Ukrainian officials, on Wednesday, more than 100 of the country's settlements were shelled by Moscow.

Ukraine has endured the worst Russian shelling since the start of the year. As per Ukrainian officials, on Wednesday, more than 100 of the country's settlements were shelled by Moscow. This, as per Kyiv, was the highest number of shellings it has borne in a single day since the Ukraine-Russia war began. Biggest attack Taking to social media, Igor Klymenko, Ukraine's interior minister, stated, "Over the last 24 hours, the enemy shelled 118 settlements in 10 regions." Also read | Don’t expect rapid success in offensive, says Zelensky; UN confirms death of over 9,900 civilians in Ukraine This, he said, "is the highest number of cities and villages that have come under attack since the start of the year." Ukrainian oil refinery ablaze As per a Reuters report, a Russian drone attack set ablaze the Kremenchuk oil refinery in central Ukraine. The fire, according to Filip Pronin, head of the Poltava region's military administration, was quickly put out. However, the extent of the damage is not known at the moment. It also damaged power lines and an unnamed infrastructure facility, knocking out the power supply in three villages in the Poltava region. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Battle of drones on frontlines, Ukraine deploys in-house 'shark' drones × "The focus of the attack was the Poltava region, it was attacked in several waves," said Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat during an address on national television. However, as per Kyiv, its forces have repelled Moscow's attacks in frontline sectors in the east and northeast. The Air Force said that its air defences successfully foiled attacks on military and critical infrastructure, shooting down 18 of 20 drones and a missile fired by Russia. A new stage of fighting In an article in The Economist, Ukraine's commander-in-chief, on Wednesday, warned that the war with Russia is moving towards a new stage of static and attritional fighting. This, as per General Valery Zaluzhnyi, will allow Moscow to rebuild its military power. Also read | Russia denies US-Russian journalist's appeal against detention "This will benefit Russia, allowing it to rebuild its military power, eventually threatening Ukraine's armed forces and the state itself." To continue their fight in the war that has already stretched to its 21st month, General Zaluzhnyi said Ukraine's army needed "key military capabilities and technologies to break out of this kind of war. The most important one is air power" (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine endures 'biggest Russian attack since start of the year' with over 100 settlements targeted

Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused the United States of stirring up the "deadly chaos" unfolding in the Middle East.

He has also charged the West and Ukraine of stirring up unrest inside Russia. This comes after anti-Israel protesters stormed the Makhachkala airport in Russia's predominantly Muslim Dagestan region.

<h2>Who's benefiting from the "deadly chaos"?</h2>

Speaking during a televised meeting with high-ranking members of his security council, Putin instigated that the US and Ukraine orchestrated the riot at the Russian airport via social media, and said, "The events in Makhachkala last night were instigated through social networks, not least from Ukraine, by the hands of agents of Western special services."

The Russian President claimed that there have been "attempts" to destabilise the Russian society.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-palestinian-protesters-enter-russian-airport-in-search-of-jewish-people-chant-anti-israeli-remarks-652865">Pro-Palestinian protesters storm Russia's Dagestan airport in search of Jews, chant anti-Israel slogans</a>

Accusing the US of sowing instability in the Middle East, he questioned, "Who is organising the deadly chaos and who benefits from it today, in my opinion, has already become obvious… It is the current ruling elites of the US and their satellites who are the main beneficiaries of world instability."

Putin also said that in the wake&nbsp;to protect "interreligious harmony," Russian law enforcement needed to take "firm, timely and clear actions."

<h2>Old habits?</h2>

As per the news agency AFP, Russia regularly blames domestic unrest on external, usually Western forces.

Putin's allegations come after the Russian Foreign Ministry accused Ukraine of playing a "direct and key role" in the Makhachkala airport "provocation".

However, this accusation was labelled "absurd" by the US. Speaking to reporters on Monday, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said: "I've seen their comments about blaming Ukraine. That is absurd."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-uk-government-aide-paul-bristow-fired-after-calls-for-permanent-ceasefire-in-gaza-653237">Israel-Hamas war: UK government aide Paul Bristow fired after calls for 'permanent ceasefire' in Gaza</a>

"We call on Russian authorities to publicly condemn these violent protests, to hold anyone involved accountable and to ensure the safety of Israelis and Jews in Russia," he added.

<h2>What happened at Makhachkala airport?</h2>

On Monday (Oct 30), a mob converged at the airport after a Telegram channel "Utro Dagestan" urged locals to meet the "uninvited guests" in "adult fashion" and to get them to turn around and fly somewhere else. As per AFP, while the channel didn't explicitly mention the word "Jew," it made reference to "unclean" passengers. The channel was banned later.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused the United States of stirring up the "deadly chaos" unfolding in the Middle East. He has also charged the West and Ukraine of stirring up unrest inside Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused the United States of stirring up the "deadly chaos" unfolding in the Middle East. He has also charged the West and Ukraine of stirring up unrest inside Russia. This comes after anti-Israel protesters stormed the Makhachkala airport in Russia's predominantly Muslim Dagestan region. Who's benefiting from the "deadly chaos"? Speaking during a televised meeting with high-ranking members of his security council, Putin instigated that the US and Ukraine orchestrated the riot at the Russian airport via social media, and said, "The events in Makhachkala last night were instigated through social networks, not least from Ukraine, by the hands of agents of Western special services." The Russian President claimed that there have been "attempts" to destabilise the Russian society. Also read | Pro-Palestinian protesters storm Russia's Dagestan airport in search of Jews, chant anti-Israel slogans Accusing the US of sowing instability in the Middle East, he questioned, "Who is organising the deadly chaos and who benefits from it today, in my opinion, has already become obvious… It is the current ruling elites of the US and their satellites who are the main beneficiaries of world instability." Putin also said that in the wake to protect "interreligious harmony," Russian law enforcement needed to take "firm, timely and clear actions." Old habits? As per the news agency AFP, Russia regularly blames domestic unrest on external, usually Western forces. Putin's allegations come after the Russian Foreign Ministry accused Ukraine of playing a "direct and key role" in the Makhachkala airport "provocation". However, this accusation was labelled "absurd" by the US. Speaking to reporters on Monday, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said: "I've seen their comments about blaming Ukraine. That is absurd." Also read | Israel-Hamas war: UK government aide Paul Bristow fired after calls for 'permanent ceasefire' in Gaza "We call on Russian authorities to publicly condemn these violent protests, to hold anyone involved accountable and to ensure the safety of Israelis and Jews in Russia," he added. What happened at Makhachkala airport? On Monday (Oct 30), a mob converged at the airport after a Telegram channel "Utro Dagestan" urged locals to meet the "uninvited guests" in "adult fashion" and to get them to turn around and fly somewhere else. As per AFP, while the channel didn't explicitly mention the word "Jew," it made reference to "unclean" passengers. The channel was banned later. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin blames Ukraine and the West for airport riot; claims US behind 'deadly chaos' in Middle East

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised

In the Russian-occupied eastern Ukrainian town of Volnovakha, a family of nine, including minor children, have been found shot to death in their house. Russian soldiers have been blamed for the gruesome killings.

Ukrainian officials have alleged that the Kapkanets family was killed on October&nbsp;27 for refusing to give their house to the soldiers.

<h2>Arrests and more</h2>

As per a BBC report, Russian investigators have detained two male suspects, who they say are Russian soldiers from the Far East.

Photographs of the brutal killings have emerged on social media. They show blood-splattered and bullet-riddled bodies lying in bed. In some heartbreaking images, the slain family could be seen lying locked in an embrace.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-blames-ukraine-and-the-west-for-airport-riot-claims-us-behind-deadly-chaos-in-middle-east-653281">Putin blames Ukraine and the West for airport riot; claims US behind 'deadly chaos' in Middle East</a>

Ukraine and Russia have both opened their own investigations into the merciless slaying.

<h2>'Bloodied hands'</h2>

Taking to Telegram, Ukrainian ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets on Monday said that "Russians' bloodied hands were involved" in the Volnovakha killings.

As per Lubinets' statement, preliminary information has revealed that "the occupiers have killed the whole of the Kapkanets family, who were celebrating a birthday and who had refused to hand their own house over to occupiers from Chechnya."

Citing preliminary information, the prosecutors' office in Ukraine-controlled Donetsk has alleged that attackers in Russian army uniforms shot the entire family after they refused to comply with demands to vacate their family home. It also said that two children, aged around five and nine, were among the victims.

<h2>Russia says it was a domestic conflict</h2>

Meanwhile, Russia's official Investigations Committee has said that as per preliminary information, "the motive for the crime was a domestic conflict."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-it-is-ready-to-repel-russias-offensive-actions-in-bakhmut-653284">Ukraine says it is ready to repel Russia's offensive actions in Bakhmut</a>

They said that two men arrested in relation to the crime were Russian soldiers from the country's far East, who had signed contracts with the Russian military.

Astra, a Russian news channel on Telegram quoting the slain family's neighbours, reported that the "killers were in the military". One neighbour told the news outlet: "We're all scared."

Another Russian Telegram channel, Baza, reported that the family had "a conflict with unidentified men wearing military fatigues with no insignia".

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos&nbsp;and&nbsp;videos.

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Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised In the Russian-occupied eastern Ukrainian town of Volnovakha, a family of nine, including minor children, have been found shot to death in their house.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised In the Russian-occupied eastern Ukrainian town of Volnovakha, a family of nine, including minor children, have been found shot to death in their house. Russian soldiers have been blamed for the gruesome killings. Ukrainian officials have alleged that the Kapkanets family was killed on October 27 for refusing to give their house to the soldiers. Arrests and more As per a BBC report, Russian investigators have detained two male suspects, who they say are Russian soldiers from the Far East. Photographs of the brutal killings have emerged on social media. They show blood-splattered and bullet-riddled bodies lying in bed. In some heartbreaking images, the slain family could be seen lying locked in an embrace. Also read | Putin blames Ukraine and the West for airport riot; claims US behind 'deadly chaos' in Middle East Ukraine and Russia have both opened their own investigations into the merciless slaying. 'Bloodied hands' Taking to Telegram, Ukrainian ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets on Monday said that "Russians' bloodied hands were involved" in the Volnovakha killings. As per Lubinets' statement, preliminary information has revealed that "the occupiers have killed the whole of the Kapkanets family, who were celebrating a birthday and who had refused to hand their own house over to occupiers from Chechnya." Citing preliminary information, the prosecutors' office in Ukraine-controlled Donetsk has alleged that attackers in Russian army uniforms shot the entire family after they refused to comply with demands to vacate their family home. It also said that two children, aged around five and nine, were among the victims. Russia says it was a domestic conflict Meanwhile, Russia's official Investigations Committee has said that as per preliminary information, "the motive for the crime was a domestic conflict." Also read | Ukraine says it is ready to repel Russia's offensive actions in Bakhmut They said that two men arrested in relation to the crime were Russian soldiers from the country's far East, who had signed contracts with the Russian military. Astra, a Russian news channel on Telegram quoting the slain family's neighbours, reported that the "killers were in the military". One neighbour told the news outlet: "We're all scared." Another Russian Telegram channel, Baza, reported that the family had "a conflict with unidentified men wearing military fatigues with no insignia". (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukrainian family of 9, including two minors brutally slain by Russian soldiers

The detention of Russian-American journalist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-wsjs-evan-gershkovich-another-american-journalist-detained-in-russia-648598">Alsu Kurmasheva </a>was extended by 72 hours on Friday (Oct 20), days after she was detained by the police from the Russian city of Kazan. Kurmasheva has been accused of violating Russian law on foreign agents. Meanwhile, the Kremlin denied “persecuting” American citizens.

The Prague-based editor for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) is the second American to be detained by Russia after Wall Street Journal reporter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-evan-gershkovich-the-us-journalist-arrested-in-russia-for-espionage-577732">Evan Gershkovich </a>was arrested in March on spying charges, which he, his employer and the White House have since denied.&nbsp;

<h2>Accusations against Kurmasheva</h2>

The Russian-American journalist was detained on Wednesday (Oct 18) after she allegedly failed to register as a “foreign agent” during a visit to Russia.&nbsp;

RFE/RL is funded by the US Congress and is designated by Moscow as a “foreign agent”. Moscow’s foreign agent law allows Russian authorities to label organisations and people that receive foreign funding as “foreign agents”.&nbsp;

Notably, the term that carries Cold War connotations of espionage, is not just limited to organisations, and can be applied to&nbsp;journalists, rights activists and even entertainers who can be asked to register with the justice ministry.

If found guilty, Kurmasheva faces up to five years in prison. However, her lawyer Edgar Matevosyan told Reuters that she was pleading not guilty.

<h2>What happened in the court?</h2>

Kurmasheva was seen wearing what appeared to be a hooded coat and a mask over her face, while two staff members in balaclavas escorted her into Kazan’s Sovetski court for the hearing on Friday.&nbsp; 
 
 
<img alt="Russia-American journalist" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a3deccd2-319f-458e-9a66-9b123b873079" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202023-10-20T211053.617_0.png" />

Image shows RFE/RL&nbsp;journalist Alsu Kurmasheva during a court hearing in Kazan, Russia on October 20, 2023. 
 
The court said that the “period of Kurmasheva’s detention in custody was extended for 72 hours.”&nbsp;

Reuters, citing court documents, said Kurmasheva was fined $103 (10,000 roubles) on October 11 after she failed to register her US passport with Russian authorities and was charged under the foreign agent&nbsp;law a week later.&nbsp;

<h2>About her case&nbsp;</h2>

Kurmasheva, who holds both American and Russian passports, is an editor with the US Congress-funded outlet’s Tatar-Bashkir service, as per her employer RFE/RL, and lives in Prague, Czech Republic.&nbsp;

The Russian-American journalist had entered Russia on May 20 following a family emergency, according to the Prague-based media outlet. However, while she was waiting for her return flight on June 2, she was temporarily detained at the Kazan airport.&nbsp;

Subsequently, her passports were confiscated, and she was fined for failing to register her US passport, according to RFE/RL. However, when she was waiting for the return of her passports, Kurmasheva was detained again and charged with failing to register as a foreign agent.&nbsp;

“Alsu is a highly respected colleague, devoted wife, and dedicated mother to two children,” RFE/RL acting President Jeffrey Gedmin said in a statement. He added, “She needs to be released so she can return to her family immediately.”&nbsp;

According to the media outlet, Kurmasheva lives in Prague with her husband and children. Gedmin also expressed concerns about the Russian court’s decision on Friday to prolong Kurmasheva’s detention and said “journalism is not a crime.”&nbsp;

Kurmasheva has covered ethnic minorities in Tatarstan and Bashkortostan, said RFE/RFL, especially on efforts to preserve the Tatar language, even as Russian authorities have “exerted increased pressure on Tatars in recent years.”&nbsp;

<h2>RFE/RL operations in Russia</h2>

The RFE/RL has also criticised Russia’s foreign agent law and said that it “amounts to political censorship”.&nbsp;

They allege that the law is “meant to prevent journalists from performing their professional duties” and are challenging officials’ actions against Kurmasheva in Russian courts as well as the European Court of Human Rights.

According to the Prague-based media outlet, over 30 RFE/RL employees have been listed as “foreign agents” by the Russian justice ministry.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, a Moscow court also declared bankruptcy of RFE/RL’s operations in Russia after they refused to pay “multiple fines” which amounted to nearly $14 million (over one billion roubles) for “noncompliance with the law.”&nbsp;

“Alsu was detained simply because she is an employee of Radio Liberty. In fact, now any independent journalist in Russia risks the same thing,” one of Kurmasheva’s colleagues said, on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal, as quoted by Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).&nbsp;

However, the local Tatar-Inform news agency has alleged that Kurmasheva’s detention may be linked to the information she received about university teachers being mobilised to fight in Ukraine. The news agency quoted investigators as saying she had been gathering information on other military activities as well.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia and the US respond</h2>

Notably, Kurmasheva’s detention comes seven months after that of Gershkovich. “This appears to be another case of the Russian government harassing U.S. citizens,” State Department spokesperson Matt Miller told reporters on Thursday (Oct 19).&nbsp;

However, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has since denied the accusations saying, “There is no campaign in Russia to persecute US citizens. There are US citizens who break the law, and appropriate measures are taken against them.”&nbsp;

<h2>Kurmasheva’s detention sparks criticism</h2>

The Russian-American journalist’s detention has since sparked criticism from various international organisations including the United Nations human rights office which took to social media and said it was “concerned” by Kurmasheva’s arrest.

“Journalists must be left to do their vital work free from pressure, intimidation and reprisals,” said the OHCHR.&nbsp;

The CPJ also released a statement that the organisation is “deeply concerned” about Kurmasheva’s detention and called on the Russian authorities to immediately release her and “drop all charges against her.”

“Journalism is not a crime and Kurmasheva’s detention is yet more proof that Russia is determined to stifle independent reporting,” said Gulnoza Said, CPJ’s Europe and Central Asia program coordinator.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The detention of Russian-American journalist Alsu Kurmasheva was extended by 72 hours on Friday (Oct 20), days after she was detained by the police from the Russian city of Kazan.

The detention of Russian-American journalist Alsu Kurmasheva was extended by 72 hours on Friday (Oct 20), days after she was detained by the police from the Russian city of Kazan. Kurmasheva has been accused of violating Russian law on foreign agents. Meanwhile, the Kremlin denied “persecuting” American citizens. The Prague-based editor for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) is the second American to be detained by Russia after Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich was arrested in March on spying charges, which he, his employer and the White House have since denied. Accusations against Kurmasheva The Russian-American journalist was detained on Wednesday (Oct 18) after she allegedly failed to register as a “foreign agent” during a visit to Russia. RFE/RL is funded by the US Congress and is designated by Moscow as a “foreign agent”. Moscow’s foreign agent law allows Russian authorities to label organisations and people that receive foreign funding as “foreign agents”. Notably, the term that carries Cold War connotations of espionage, is not just limited to organisations, and can be applied to journalists, rights activists and even entertainers who can be asked to register with the justice ministry. If found guilty, Kurmasheva faces up to five years in prison. However, her lawyer Edgar Matevosyan told Reuters that she was pleading not guilty. What happened in the court? Kurmasheva was seen wearing what appeared to be a hooded coat and a mask over her face, while two staff members in balaclavas escorted her into Kazan’s Sovetski court for the hearing on Friday. Image shows RFE/RL journalist Alsu Kurmasheva during a court hearing in Kazan, Russia on October 20, 2023. The court said that the “period of Kurmasheva’s detention in custody was extended for 72 hours.” Reuters, citing court documents, said Kurmasheva was fined $103 (10,000 roubles) on October 11 after she failed to register her US passport with Russian authorities and was charged under the foreign agent law a week later. About her case Kurmasheva, who holds both American and Russian passports, is an editor with the US Congress-funded outlet’s Tatar-Bashkir service, as per her employer RFE/RL, and lives in Prague, Czech Republic. The Russian-American journalist had entered Russia on May 20 following a family emergency, according to the Prague-based media outlet. However, while she was waiting for her return flight on June 2, she was temporarily detained at the Kazan airport. Subsequently, her passports were confiscated, and she was fined for failing to register her US passport, according to RFE/RL. However, when she was waiting for the return of her passports, Kurmasheva was detained again and charged with failing to register as a foreign agent. “Alsu is a highly respected colleague, devoted wife, and dedicated mother to two children,” RFE/RL acting President Jeffrey Gedmin said in a statement. He added, “She needs to be released so she can return to her family immediately.” According to the media outlet, Kurmasheva lives in Prague with her husband and children. Gedmin also expressed concerns about the Russian court’s decision on Friday to prolong Kurmasheva’s detention and said “journalism is not a crime.” Kurmasheva has covered ethnic minorities in Tatarstan and Bashkortostan, said RFE/RFL, especially on efforts to preserve the Tatar language, even as Russian authorities have “exerted increased pressure on Tatars in recent years.” RFE/RL operations in Russia The RFE/RL has also criticised Russia’s foreign agent law and said that it “amounts to political censorship”. They allege that the law is “meant to prevent journalists from performing their professional duties” and are challenging officials’ actions against Kurmasheva in Russian courts as well as the European Court of Human Rights. According to the Prague-based media outlet, over 30 RFE/RL employees have been listed as “foreign agents” by the Russian justice ministry. Earlier this year, a Moscow court also declared bankruptcy of RFE/RL’s operations in Russia after they refused to pay “multiple fines” which amounted to nearly $14 million (over one billion roubles) for “noncompliance with the law.” “Alsu was detained simply because she is an employee of Radio Liberty. In fact, now any independent journalist in Russia risks the same thing,” one of Kurmasheva’s colleagues said, on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal, as quoted by Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). However, the local Tatar-Inform news agency has alleged that Kurmasheva’s detention may be linked to the information she received about university teachers being mobilised to fight in Ukraine. The news agency quoted investigators as saying she had been gathering information on other military activities as well. Russia and the US respond Notably, Kurmasheva’s detention comes seven months after that of Gershkovich. “This appears to be another case of the Russian government harassing U.S. citizens,” State Department spokesperson Matt Miller told reporters on Thursday (Oct 19). However, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has since denied the accusations saying, “There is no campaign in Russia to persecute US citizens. There are US citizens who break the law, and appropriate measures are taken against them.” Kurmasheva’s detention sparks criticism The Russian-American journalist’s detention has since sparked criticism from various international organisations including the United Nations human rights office which took to social media and said it was “concerned” by Kurmasheva’s arrest. “Journalists must be left to do their vital work free from pressure, intimidation and reprisals,” said the OHCHR. The CPJ also released a statement that the organisation is “deeply concerned” about Kurmasheva’s detention and called on the Russian authorities to immediately release her and “drop all charges against her.” “Journalism is not a crime and Kurmasheva’s detention is yet more proof that Russia is determined to stifle independent reporting,” said Gulnoza Said, CPJ’s Europe and Central Asia program coordinator. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Russia detains another American journalist. Here’s what we know

President Vladimir Putin visited the headquarters in Rostov-on-Don overseeing the Ukraine offensive, said the Kremlin on Friday (Oct 20). Meanwhile, Ukraine has reported that its troops are facing a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-civilians-killed-in-ukraines-avdiivka-russian-forces-improving-positions-along-front-line-claims-putin-647192">new Russian onslaught</a> in the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka, which has recently witnessed a rise in attacks by Moscow.&nbsp;

<h2>Putin’s visit to military HQ</h2>

According to Russian state television, Putin went to the military headquarters to hear a report on the progress of operations in Ukraine.&nbsp;

It showed the chief of the general staff and the commander of the war in Ukraine, General Valery Gerasimov, telling Putin that the troops are “carrying out their tasks in line with the operation plan,” reported Reuters.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Kremlin, in a statement on Friday addressing the visit, said the Russian president had visited the military headquarters “on his way back from Perm,” a city where he had been the day before.&nbsp;

The meeting on Friday also came a day after Ukraine said that had used US-supplied ATACMS long-range missiles for the first time in the 604-day conflict.&nbsp;

Putin has previously said that the Ukrainian counteroffensive had “completely failed,” adding that Kyiv’s Western backers were less hawkish than before.

“As for the counteroffensive, which is allegedly stalling, it has failed completely,” said the Russian president in a video posted by Kremlin journalist Pavel Zarubin, last week.&nbsp;

When asked about the battle for Avdiivka, Putin said that the “opposing side is preparing new active offensive operations. We see it and we know it.”&nbsp;

<h2>Russia ramps up attacks in Avdiivka: Ukraine</h2>

In an update, on Friday Ukraine’s general staff said Russian troops have ramped up attacks in eastern Ukraine in what was described as an ongoing bid to encircle and capture Avdiivka.&nbsp;

“The enemy has resumed offensive actions and does not stop trying to surround Avdiivka,” said Ukrainian general staff during a briefing. The frontline city in the eastern Donetsk region has become the new centre of fighting as both sides struggle to make gains.&nbsp;

Avdiivka is around 15 kilometres away from the Russian-held city of Donetsk, the capital of the Donetsk region which Moscow annexed last year in September.&nbsp;

Ukrainian General Valery Zaluzhnyi, in a video posted on Telegram, appeared to be talking with officers in Avdiivka and in Kupiansk, a town further north.&nbsp;

“The enemy is actively bringing in assault units and large amounts of armoured equipment and using aircraft and artillery,” said Zaluzhniy, on Thursday in a statement along with the video.

Oleksandr Shtupun, a spokesperson for the southern group of Ukrainian forces, told national television there was constant pressure on Avdiivka. “They (Russian forces) regrouped and launched new assaults there,” said Shtupun.&nbsp;

However, Reuters has reported that while Avdiivka witnessed fierce attacks by Russian forces last week, the shelling had tapered off in the last few days.

Speaking about Kupiansk, which was recaptured by Ukrainian troops late last year, Zaluzhniy said Ukrainian forces were “maintaining their defence in the most difficult of conditions” around the city.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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President Vladimir Putin visited the headquarters in Rostov-on-Don overseeing the Ukraine offensive, said the Kremlin on Friday (Oct 20). Meanwhile, Ukraine has reported that its troops are facing a new Russian onslaught in the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka, which has recently witnessed a rise in attacks by Moscow.

President Vladimir Putin visited the headquarters in Rostov-on-Don overseeing the Ukraine offensive, said the Kremlin on Friday (Oct 20). Meanwhile, Ukraine has reported that its troops are facing a new Russian onslaught in the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka, which has recently witnessed a rise in attacks by Moscow. Putin’s visit to military HQ According to Russian state television, Putin went to the military headquarters to hear a report on the progress of operations in Ukraine. It showed the chief of the general staff and the commander of the war in Ukraine, General Valery Gerasimov, telling Putin that the troops are “carrying out their tasks in line with the operation plan,” reported Reuters. Meanwhile, the Kremlin, in a statement on Friday addressing the visit, said the Russian president had visited the military headquarters “on his way back from Perm,” a city where he had been the day before. The meeting on Friday also came a day after Ukraine said that had used US-supplied ATACMS long-range missiles for the first time in the 604-day conflict. Putin has previously said that the Ukrainian counteroffensive had “completely failed,” adding that Kyiv’s Western backers were less hawkish than before. “As for the counteroffensive, which is allegedly stalling, it has failed completely,” said the Russian president in a video posted by Kremlin journalist Pavel Zarubin, last week. When asked about the battle for Avdiivka, Putin said that the “opposing side is preparing new active offensive operations. We see it and we know it.” Russia ramps up attacks in Avdiivka: Ukraine In an update, on Friday Ukraine’s general staff said Russian troops have ramped up attacks in eastern Ukraine in what was described as an ongoing bid to encircle and capture Avdiivka. “The enemy has resumed offensive actions and does not stop trying to surround Avdiivka,” said Ukrainian general staff during a briefing. The frontline city in the eastern Donetsk region has become the new centre of fighting as both sides struggle to make gains. Avdiivka is around 15 kilometres away from the Russian-held city of Donetsk, the capital of the Donetsk region which Moscow annexed last year in September. Ukrainian General Valery Zaluzhnyi, in a video posted on Telegram, appeared to be talking with officers in Avdiivka and in Kupiansk, a town further north. “The enemy is actively bringing in assault units and large amounts of armoured equipment and using aircraft and artillery,” said Zaluzhniy, on Thursday in a statement along with the video. Oleksandr Shtupun, a spokesperson for the southern group of Ukrainian forces, told national television there was constant pressure on Avdiivka. “They (Russian forces) regrouped and launched new assaults there,” said Shtupun. However, Reuters has reported that while Avdiivka witnessed fierce attacks by Russian forces last week, the shelling had tapered off in the last few days. Speaking about Kupiansk, which was recaptured by Ukrainian troops late last year, Zaluzhniy said Ukrainian forces were “maintaining their defence in the most difficult of conditions” around the city. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin visits military HQ in southern Russia; Moscow ramps up attacks in Avdiivka, says Ukraine

At least two civilians were killed after Russian attacks on the eastern Ukrainian town of Avdiivka, on Saturday, said the regional administration on Sunday (Oct 15). Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Moscow’s forces have bolstered their positions across the entire front line in Ukraine in what he called a failure of the Ukrainian counteroffensive which began earlier this year.&nbsp;

<h2>Two civilians killed in Avdiivka</h2>

Ukrainian officials in the Donetsk region took to Telegram on Sunday and said two people were killed and one more person was injured elsewhere in the region.&nbsp;

This comes as the Russian forces have launched attacks on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-have-shot-down-ukrainian-drones-over-black-sea-646816">Avdiivka for the fifth day</a> and with shelling so fierce that emergency crews were unable to recover the dead from wrecked buildings, according to Reuters.&nbsp;

“Avdiivka is completely ablaze. They shoot, using everything they have. The hospital is again under fire, as are administrative buildings and our volunteer centre,” Vitaliy Barabash, head of the city’s military administration told Ukrainian national television, on Saturday.

Oleh Sinehubov, governor of the Kharkiv region said a 54-year-old woman and a 57-year-old man were killed and a woman was injured after overnight Russian air attacks in the region.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces said on Sunday its forces had repelled 15 Russian attacks near Avdiivka, Tonenke and Pervomaiske in the Donetsk region.&nbsp;

<h2>Putin about Russian forces in Ukraine</h2>

Earlier this year, Ukraine launched its counteroffensive to recapture its territory from Russia. However, as per a report by Reuters, the Ukrainian army continues to struggle to penetrate Russian lines which have been bolstered with minefields and thousands of extra Russian troops.

“As for the counteroffensive, which is allegedly stalling, it has failed completely,” said the Russian president in a video posted by Kremlin journalist Pavel Zarubin. When asked about the battle for Avdiivka, Putin said that the “opposing side is preparing new active offensive operations. We see it and we know it.”&nbsp;

“What is happening now along the entire length of the (line of) contact is called ‘an active defence’,” said the Russian president, as quoted by Reuters. He added, “And our troops are improving their position at almost the entire area. Quite a large area.”

<h2>Russia building new new rail line to Mariupol: UK</h2>

Britain’s defence ministry in its recent intelligence briefing said that Russia “is constructing a new railway line to Mariupol which will reduce travel times for supplies for the Zaporizhzhia.”&nbsp;

Moscow is using civilian contractors and equipment to build the railway line into the Ukrainian city in the Donetsk region, to free up Russian soldiers, who are also trained for railway construction, according to the ministry.&nbsp;

It added, “The new line falls within the notional range of Ukrainian long-range precision strike systems.”&nbsp;

The statement also noted how rail logistics are a “vital component” for sustaining the Russian invasion and that Moscow uses its rail networks to move ammunition, armour, fuel and personnel into Ukraine.&nbsp;

While Russia’s rail network in occupied areas of Ukraine remains viable it is also often vulnerable to attack by Ukrainian forces, said the ministry.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least two civilians were killed after Russian attacks on the eastern Ukrainian town of Avdiivka, on Saturday, said the regional administration on Sunday (Oct 15).

At least two civilians were killed after Russian attacks on the eastern Ukrainian town of Avdiivka, on Saturday, said the regional administration on Sunday (Oct 15). Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Moscow’s forces have bolstered their positions across the entire front line in Ukraine in what he called a failure of the Ukrainian counteroffensive which began earlier this year. Two civilians killed in Avdiivka Ukrainian officials in the Donetsk region took to Telegram on Sunday and said two people were killed and one more person was injured elsewhere in the region. This comes as the Russian forces have launched attacks on Avdiivka for the fifth day and with shelling so fierce that emergency crews were unable to recover the dead from wrecked buildings, according to Reuters. “Avdiivka is completely ablaze. They shoot, using everything they have. The hospital is again under fire, as are administrative buildings and our volunteer centre,” Vitaliy Barabash, head of the city’s military administration told Ukrainian national television, on Saturday. Oleh Sinehubov, governor of the Kharkiv region said a 54-year-old woman and a 57-year-old man were killed and a woman was injured after overnight Russian air attacks in the region. Meanwhile, the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces said on Sunday its forces had repelled 15 Russian attacks near Avdiivka, Tonenke and Pervomaiske in the Donetsk region. Putin about Russian forces in Ukraine Earlier this year, Ukraine launched its counteroffensive to recapture its territory from Russia. However, as per a report by Reuters, the Ukrainian army continues to struggle to penetrate Russian lines which have been bolstered with minefields and thousands of extra Russian troops. “As for the counteroffensive, which is allegedly stalling, it has failed completely,” said the Russian president in a video posted by Kremlin journalist Pavel Zarubin. When asked about the battle for Avdiivka, Putin said that the “opposing side is preparing new active offensive operations. We see it and we know it.” “What is happening now along the entire length of the (line of) contact is called ‘an active defence’,” said the Russian president, as quoted by Reuters. He added, “And our troops are improving their position at almost the entire area. Quite a large area.” Russia building new new rail line to Mariupol: UK Britain’s defence ministry in its recent intelligence briefing said that Russia “is constructing a new railway line to Mariupol which will reduce travel times for supplies for the Zaporizhzhia.” Moscow is using civilian contractors and equipment to build the railway line into the Ukrainian city in the Donetsk region, to free up Russian soldiers, who are also trained for railway construction, according to the ministry. It added, “The new line falls within the notional range of Ukrainian long-range precision strike systems.” The statement also noted how rail logistics are a “vital component” for sustaining the Russian invasion and that Moscow uses its rail networks to move ammunition, armour, fuel and personnel into Ukraine. While Russia’s rail network in occupied areas of Ukraine remains viable it is also often vulnerable to attack by Ukrainian forces, said the ministry. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Two civilians killed in Ukraine’s Avdiivka; Russian forces improving positions along front line, claims Putin

Russia claims to have shot down two Ukrainian drones over the Black Sea in the southern resort city of Sochi, near the coast of the Krasnodar region, on Saturday (Oct 14). Meanwhile, the commander of the Ukrainian ground forces in an update on Saturday said that fighting along the northern part of the eastern front has “significantly worsened” in recent days.

<h2>Russia shoots drones over Black Sea</h2>

“Today at about 7:10 am in Sochi…two drones were shot down over the sea,” said the governor of the southern Krasnodar region Alexei Kopaygorodskiy on social media.&nbsp;

“There were no casualties or damage in the city,” said the Russian official, adding that the airport was working “normally” and that “the situation was under control.”

However, Russia’s Interfax news agency citing the airport’s press service said there were temporary restrictions at the airport for safety reasons.

Meanwhile, the Russian military said that it thwarted a “terrorist attack by the Kyiv regime” and “destroyed two drones” over the Black Sea near the coast of the Russian region.&nbsp;

Notably, while Ukraine has launched multiple drone attacks against several Russian cities since the beginning of its counteroffensive, earlier this year, Sochi has been largely spared from attacks.

<h2>Ukrainian general about the fighting in northeast</h2>

Oleksandr Syrskyi, who was visiting Ukrainian troops in the country’s northeastern region, in an update said that the Russian forces had regrouped after suffering losses and were attacking around the village of Makiivka and towards the city of Kupiansk.

“The main objective of the enemy is the defeat of a grouping of our troops, the encirclement of Kupiansk and to reach the Oskil River,” said the Ukrainian commander, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

He added that Russian forces were carrying out “dozens” of assaults each day, but that Ukrainian troops had been ready and were holding their ground.

This comes a day after Ukrainian officials said that Russian forces pounded the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka in the Donbas region for the fourth day in a row. “The fighting has been going on for four consecutive days,” Vitaliy Barabash, head of the city’s military administration told Ukrainian national television.&nbsp;

He added, “They have substantial reserves of personnel and equipment. Avdiivka is completely ablaze. They shoot, using everything they have. The hospital is again under fire, as are administrative buildings and our volunteer centre.”

On Friday (Oct 13), at least one person was killed and 24 were injured after a Russian missile strike in the city of Pokrovsk. Separately, a drone attack in Beryslav a 34-year-old woman and seriously injured her 36-year-old husband.

<h2>Russia’s new campaign?</h2>

It has been reported that Russia has increased attacks along the 1,000-kilometre eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, which was seemingly confirmed by the Russian representative to the United Nations, Vasily Nebenzia who said that their intensified battles in the east signified a new stage in its campaign.

“Russian troops have, for several days now, switched over to active combat action practically throughout the entire front line,” Nebenzia told a session of the UN Security Council. He added, “The so-called Ukrainian counteroffensive can therefore be considered finished.”&nbsp; 
 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
&nbsp;

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Russia claims to have shot down two Ukrainian drones over the Black Sea in the southern resort city of Sochi, near the coast of the Krasnodar region, on Saturday (Oct 14).

Russia claims to have shot down two Ukrainian drones over the Black Sea in the southern resort city of Sochi, near the coast of the Krasnodar region, on Saturday (Oct 14). Meanwhile, the commander of the Ukrainian ground forces in an update on Saturday said that fighting along the northern part of the eastern front has “significantly worsened” in recent days. Russia shoots drones over Black Sea “Today at about 7:10 am in Sochi…two drones were shot down over the sea,” said the governor of the southern Krasnodar region Alexei Kopaygorodskiy on social media. “There were no casualties or damage in the city,” said the Russian official, adding that the airport was working “normally” and that “the situation was under control.” However, Russia’s Interfax news agency citing the airport’s press service said there were temporary restrictions at the airport for safety reasons. Meanwhile, the Russian military said that it thwarted a “terrorist attack by the Kyiv regime” and “destroyed two drones” over the Black Sea near the coast of the Russian region. Notably, while Ukraine has launched multiple drone attacks against several Russian cities since the beginning of its counteroffensive, earlier this year, Sochi has been largely spared from attacks. Ukrainian general about the fighting in northeast Oleksandr Syrskyi, who was visiting Ukrainian troops in the country’s northeastern region, in an update said that the Russian forces had regrouped after suffering losses and were attacking around the village of Makiivka and towards the city of Kupiansk. “The main objective of the enemy is the defeat of a grouping of our troops, the encirclement of Kupiansk and to reach the Oskil River,” said the Ukrainian commander, as per Reuters. He added that Russian forces were carrying out “dozens” of assaults each day, but that Ukrainian troops had been ready and were holding their ground. This comes a day after Ukrainian officials said that Russian forces pounded the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka in the Donbas region for the fourth day in a row. “The fighting has been going on for four consecutive days,” Vitaliy Barabash, head of the city’s military administration told Ukrainian national television. He added, “They have substantial reserves of personnel and equipment. Avdiivka is completely ablaze. They shoot, using everything they have. The hospital is again under fire, as are administrative buildings and our volunteer centre.” On Friday (Oct 13), at least one person was killed and 24 were injured after a Russian missile strike in the city of Pokrovsk. Separately, a drone attack in Beryslav a 34-year-old woman and seriously injured her 36-year-old husband. Russia’s new campaign? It has been reported that Russia has increased attacks along the 1,000-kilometre eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, which was seemingly confirmed by the Russian representative to the United Nations, Vasily Nebenzia who said that their intensified battles in the east signified a new stage in its campaign. “Russian troops have, for several days now, switched over to active combat action practically throughout the entire front line,” Nebenzia told a session of the UN Security Council. He added, “The so-called Ukrainian counteroffensive can therefore be considered finished.” Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia claims it downed Ukrainian drones over Black Sea; Moscow attacks in east intensify, says Ukraine

The United Nations human rights body on Thursday (Oct 12) adopted a resolution brought by several European countries to extend the mandate of an independent expert to document alleged human rights abuses in Russia for another year. This comes a year after the UN Human Rights Council first authorised to examine the record of one of the so-called “P5” members.&nbsp;

This is being seen as a second diplomatic defeat for Moscow in three days after the country’s<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unga-rejects-russian-bid-to-rejoin-human-rights-body-645096"> failed bid</a> to rejoin the 47-member Human Rights Council after it was kicked out following the invasion of Ukraine in 2022.&nbsp;

<h2>Resolution adopted</h2>

The resolution adopted&nbsp;with 18 votes- with 22 abstaining and seven voting against it in Geneva- extends Bulgarian human rights expert Mariana Katzarova’s work for another year.&nbsp;

“The Special Rapporteur is one of the last avenues for civil society to bring international attention to their important work and to give a voice to those who risk their lives,” Katharina Stasch, German ambassador to the UN in Geneva, told the council.&nbsp;

Argentina, Britain, France, Germany, Ukraine and the United States were among those who supported the resolution, while countries like China, Cuba, Eritrea, Kazakhstan and Vietnam voted against the mandate.&nbsp;

Around 22 countries which included India, Malaysia, Mexico, Pakistan, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) abstained from voting.&nbsp;

In line with the resolution passed, Russia is required to establish “constructive communication and full cooperation” with the Bulgarian human rights expert and allow her unhindered access, including to meet freely with civil society and individuals in detention.

However, Moscow has refused to let her in, has not recognised her mandate and previously called criticism of its rights record unfounded.

Last month, Katzarova, in her report on Moscow said that the human rights situation in Russia had significantly deteriorated since the country invaded Ukraine.&nbsp;

She also described a “systematic crackdown” on civil society and said Russia had adopted laws to “muzzle civil society and punish human rights activists and others for their anti-war stance.”

The former journalist also referred to attempts by Russia to obstruct her mandate, saying such actions showed “a lack of political will to uphold its human rights obligations”.&nbsp;

<h2>‘No country is above scrutiny’</h2>

Last year’s special rapporteur’s mandate marked the first time that the UNHRC was authorised to examine the record of one of the UN’s “P5” members, which refers to the countries who hold permanent seats on the Security Council.&nbsp;

“This resolution is not a reflection of politicization but reflects the need to ensure that human rights are universally respected,” said Michèle Taylor, permanent representative of the US to the UNHRC.&nbsp;

“No country is above scrutiny, no matter how upsetting or embarrassing they find it, no matter how strong their military is, no matter how wide the reach of their proxies, and no matter how aggressively they threaten or cajole other countries,” the US representative added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The United Nations human rights body on Thursday (Oct 12) adopted a resolution brought by several European countries to extend the mandate of an independent expert to document alleged human rights abuses in Russia for another year.

The United Nations human rights body on Thursday (Oct 12) adopted a resolution brought by several European countries to extend the mandate of an independent expert to document alleged human rights abuses in Russia for another year. This comes a year after the UN Human Rights Council first authorised to examine the record of one of the so-called “P5” members. This is being seen as a second diplomatic defeat for Moscow in three days after the country’s failed bid to rejoin the 47-member Human Rights Council after it was kicked out following the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Resolution adopted The resolution adopted with 18 votes- with 22 abstaining and seven voting against it in Geneva- extends Bulgarian human rights expert Mariana Katzarova’s work for another year. “The Special Rapporteur is one of the last avenues for civil society to bring international attention to their important work and to give a voice to those who risk their lives,” Katharina Stasch, German ambassador to the UN in Geneva, told the council. Argentina, Britain, France, Germany, Ukraine and the United States were among those who supported the resolution, while countries like China, Cuba, Eritrea, Kazakhstan and Vietnam voted against the mandate. Around 22 countries which included India, Malaysia, Mexico, Pakistan, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) abstained from voting. In line with the resolution passed, Russia is required to establish “constructive communication and full cooperation” with the Bulgarian human rights expert and allow her unhindered access, including to meet freely with civil society and individuals in detention. However, Moscow has refused to let her in, has not recognised her mandate and previously called criticism of its rights record unfounded. Last month, Katzarova, in her report on Moscow said that the human rights situation in Russia had significantly deteriorated since the country invaded Ukraine. She also described a “systematic crackdown” on civil society and said Russia had adopted laws to “muzzle civil society and punish human rights activists and others for their anti-war stance.” The former journalist also referred to attempts by Russia to obstruct her mandate, saying such actions showed “a lack of political will to uphold its human rights obligations”. ‘No country is above scrutiny’ Last year’s special rapporteur’s mandate marked the first time that the UNHRC was authorised to examine the record of one of the UN’s “P5” members, which refers to the countries who hold permanent seats on the Security Council. “This resolution is not a reflection of politicization but reflects the need to ensure that human rights are universally respected,” said Michèle Taylor, permanent representative of the US to the UNHRC. “No country is above scrutiny, no matter how upsetting or embarrassing they find it, no matter how strong their military is, no matter how wide the reach of their proxies, and no matter how aggressively they threaten or cajole other countries,” the US representative added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN human rights body extends mandate for investigator to document alleged rights violations in Russia

The death toll from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-death-toll-in-hroza-rises-to-52-after-strike-un-team-deployed-to-investigate-643336">an airstrike</a> on a Ukrainian village in the northeastern Kharkiv region has risen to 59 and all victims were civilians, Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said on Thursday (Oct 12), nearly a week after the attack where the death toll was reported to be 52. The attack was reportedly one of Russia’s deadliest on civilians since the beginning of its invasion.&nbsp;

<h2>All victims were civilians</h2>

The Russian missile had hit a cafe in Hroza on Friday (Oct 6) where people gathered to mourn a fallen Ukrainian soldier. Amid repeated accusations by Kyiv that Moscow is deliberately targeting its civilians, the Kremlin yet again denied the allegations.&nbsp;

“The Russians killed 59 people with a direct hit with an Iskander (missile) on the village of Hroza,” said Klymenko on Telegram.

He added, “All victims are local residents. They were pensioners, medics, farmers, teachers, entrepreneurs. All were civilians. Entire families of several generations died.”&nbsp;

The death toll is said to be one of the highest ones among civilians in any single Russian strike in nearly 20 months of the ongoing Ukraine war. Klymenko said forensic experts worked round the clock for six days to identify the victims.&nbsp;

The experts also required mobile DNA laboratories to identify 19 people. One 60-year-old man was identified only after 20 body parts were collected.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian security service SBU on Wednesday (Oct 11)&nbsp;accused two villagers who it said had fled to Russia of helping guide the missile strike.&nbsp;

<h2>Romania finds ‘drone crater’&nbsp;</h2>

Romania, a NATO member and country which borders Ukraine, found a “drone crater” on Thursday after Russia bombarded a Ukrainian port on the Danube river, said Bucharest’s defence ministry.&nbsp;

The country had also found <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/romania-finds-suspected-russian-drone-fragments-on-its-territory-near-ukraine-border-634282">drone debris</a> several times near its border with Ukraine, last month, prompting them to build air-raid shelters in the eastern Romanian village of Plauru.&nbsp;

“Around 5:00 am (local time), the teams on the ground reported the discovery of a drone crater – with a possible explosion on impact – in a vegetated area... about three kilometres west of Plauru,” said the defence ministry in a statement.&nbsp;

“The Ministry of National Defence strongly condemns the attacks carried out by the Russian Federation against targets and elements of civilian infrastructure in Ukrainian Danube ports,” it added. Romania also said that they would work with NATO to investigate the incident.&nbsp;

<h2>Czech Republic and Denmark to send arms</h2>

The Czech Republic and Denmark “in the months to come” will send nearly 50 armoured vehicles and combat tanks, 2,500 handguns, 7,000 rifles, 500 machine guns and 500 sniper rifles to Ukraine as part of a joint project and based on the “demand and needs” of Ukraine’s armed forces, said the Czech defence ministry, on Thursday.&nbsp;

The ammunition will be the first phase of the project which also includes intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance equipment and large-calibre ammunition.&nbsp;

“This is a substantial donation of equipment, for which there is great demand in Ukraine,” said the Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen.&nbsp;

As a part of their next phase, Prague and Copenhagen expect to provide the Ukrainian army with 500 heavy machine guns, 280 auto-loading cannons, 7,000 anti-tank weapons, 10,000 hand grenades and 60 mortar systems.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The death toll from an airstrike on a Ukrainian village in the northeastern Kharkiv region has risen to 59 and all victims were civilians, Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said on Thursday (Oct 12), nearly a week after the attack where the death toll was reported to be 52.

The death toll from an airstrike on a Ukrainian village in the northeastern Kharkiv region has risen to 59 and all victims were civilians, Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said on Thursday (Oct 12), nearly a week after the attack where the death toll was reported to be 52. The attack was reportedly one of Russia’s deadliest on civilians since the beginning of its invasion. All victims were civilians The Russian missile had hit a cafe in Hroza on Friday (Oct 6) where people gathered to mourn a fallen Ukrainian soldier. Amid repeated accusations by Kyiv that Moscow is deliberately targeting its civilians, the Kremlin yet again denied the allegations. “The Russians killed 59 people with a direct hit with an Iskander (missile) on the village of Hroza,” said Klymenko on Telegram. He added, “All victims are local residents. They were pensioners, medics, farmers, teachers, entrepreneurs. All were civilians. Entire families of several generations died.” The death toll is said to be one of the highest ones among civilians in any single Russian strike in nearly 20 months of the ongoing Ukraine war. Klymenko said forensic experts worked round the clock for six days to identify the victims. The experts also required mobile DNA laboratories to identify 19 people. One 60-year-old man was identified only after 20 body parts were collected. The Ukrainian security service SBU on Wednesday (Oct 11) accused two villagers who it said had fled to Russia of helping guide the missile strike. Romania finds ‘drone crater’ Romania, a NATO member and country which borders Ukraine, found a “drone crater” on Thursday after Russia bombarded a Ukrainian port on the Danube river, said Bucharest’s defence ministry. The country had also found drone debris several times near its border with Ukraine, last month, prompting them to build air-raid shelters in the eastern Romanian village of Plauru. “Around 5:00 am (local time), the teams on the ground reported the discovery of a drone crater – with a possible explosion on impact – in a vegetated area... about three kilometres west of Plauru,” said the defence ministry in a statement. “The Ministry of National Defence strongly condemns the attacks carried out by the Russian Federation against targets and elements of civilian infrastructure in Ukrainian Danube ports,” it added. Romania also said that they would work with NATO to investigate the incident. Czech Republic and Denmark to send arms The Czech Republic and Denmark “in the months to come” will send nearly 50 armoured vehicles and combat tanks, 2,500 handguns, 7,000 rifles, 500 machine guns and 500 sniper rifles to Ukraine as part of a joint project and based on the “demand and needs” of Ukraine’s armed forces, said the Czech defence ministry, on Thursday. The ammunition will be the first phase of the project which also includes intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance equipment and large-calibre ammunition. “This is a substantial donation of equipment, for which there is great demand in Ukraine,” said the Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen. As a part of their next phase, Prague and Copenhagen expect to provide the Ukrainian army with 500 heavy machine guns, 280 auto-loading cannons, 7,000 anti-tank weapons, 10,000 hand grenades and 60 mortar systems. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘All victims were civilians’: Death toll from Hroza missile strike rises to 59, says Ukraine

Vladimir Putin's arrival in Kyrgyzstan on Thursday marked his first trip abroad since the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March.

The Russian President is wanted over allegations of deportation of Ukrainian children. However, Kyrgyzstan is not a member of the ICC, and it is not bound by the court's ruling to arrest him.

<h2>Putin in Kyrgyzstan</h2>

Putin's arrival in Kyrgyzstan was reported by Russian news agencies TASS, Interfax, and RIA Novosti early on Thursday.&nbsp;

During the visit, he is scheduled to meet with Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Japarov and take part&nbsp;in a summit of the Commonwealth of Independent States. Russian ally, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, and other regional leaders will also participate in the summit.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-of-improved-position-near-east-ukraine-town-645608">Russia claims of 'improved' position near east Ukraine town</a>

However, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has decided to skip the summit.

Notably, Putin has been relatively absent from international travel since the launch of Russia's Ukraine offensive in February 2022.&nbsp;

This year, he has only travelled to Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine. His last foreign visits to Belarus and Kyrgyzstan were in December of last year. However, as per AFP, Putin is planning future visits to North Korea and China.&nbsp;

<h2>ICC arrest warrant</h2>

Moscow has denounced the warrant as "illegal" and has equated the Russian President's potential arrest abroad to an act of war.&nbsp;

Despite that, Russia, in practice, has taken precautions to avoid Putin's arrest. This includes sending Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to represent the nation at a BRICS summit in ICC member South Africa in August.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-women-earn-less-than-men-nobel-economics-laureate-reflects-on-gender-gap-studies-645624">Why women earn less than men? Nobel economics laureate reflects on gender gap studies</a>

Commenting on his absence from Johannesburg, Putin earlier this month said: "Why should I create some problems for our friends during an event?".

"If I come, a political show will start," he added.

The ICC's ruling and the Rome Statute — ratified by 123 nations requires member countries to adhere to ICC decisions, have closed the door to a large part of the globe to Putin, reports AFP.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Vladimir Putin's arrival in Kyrgyzstan on Thursday marked his first trip abroad since the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March.

Vladimir Putin's arrival in Kyrgyzstan on Thursday marked his first trip abroad since the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March. The Russian President is wanted over allegations of deportation of Ukrainian children. However, Kyrgyzstan is not a member of the ICC, and it is not bound by the court's ruling to arrest him. Putin in Kyrgyzstan Putin's arrival in Kyrgyzstan was reported by Russian news agencies TASS, Interfax, and RIA Novosti early on Thursday. During the visit, he is scheduled to meet with Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Japarov and take part in a summit of the Commonwealth of Independent States. Russian ally, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, and other regional leaders will also participate in the summit. Also read | Russia claims of 'improved' position near east Ukraine town However, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has decided to skip the summit. Notably, Putin has been relatively absent from international travel since the launch of Russia's Ukraine offensive in February 2022. This year, he has only travelled to Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine. His last foreign visits to Belarus and Kyrgyzstan were in December of last year. However, as per AFP, Putin is planning future visits to North Korea and China. ICC arrest warrant Moscow has denounced the warrant as "illegal" and has equated the Russian President's potential arrest abroad to an act of war. Despite that, Russia, in practice, has taken precautions to avoid Putin's arrest. This includes sending Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to represent the nation at a BRICS summit in ICC member South Africa in August. Also read | Why women earn less than men? Nobel economics laureate reflects on gender gap studies Commenting on his absence from Johannesburg, Putin earlier this month said: "Why should I create some problems for our friends during an event?". "If I come, a political show will start," he added. The ICC's ruling and the Rome Statute — ratified by 123 nations requires member countries to adhere to ICC decisions, have closed the door to a large part of the globe to Putin, reports AFP. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin arrives in Kyrgyzstan for his first international trip since ICC arrest warrant

Local officials in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region said two people were killed on Saturday (Oct 7) in a village after shelling by Russian forces. Meanwhile, the governor of Russia’s border Belgorod region, said that one civilian had been killed in the village of Urazovo as a result of Ukrainian shelling.&nbsp;

In a separate attack, a party official in the Russian-held town of Nova Kakhovka in the Ukrainian Kherson region was killed by a car bomb, said the provincial governor.&nbsp;

<h2>Russian shelling kills two in Zaporizhzhia</h2>

Local officials in the village of Bilenke, in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region, said that two people were killed after Russian forces shelled the area, according to a report by Reuters.&nbsp;

They also reported the destruction and damage of at least 10 houses, in the village which is 25 kilometres away from the Russian-controlled left bank of the Dnipro River.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-three-injured-after-russian-regions-hit-by-ukrainian-shelling-drones-moscow-641489">At least three injured in Russian regions hit by Ukrainian shelling, drones: Moscow</a>

A local resident also told the news agency that this was the first time that the village was shelled with artillery.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened in Belgorod?</h2>

Governor of Russia’s Belgorod region, Vyacheslav Gladkov, reported that a civilian was killed in the village of Urazovo, near the Ukrainian border following shelling by Ukrainian forces.&nbsp;

This comes after he had earlier said that Russian air defence systems downed three Ukrainian missiles over the region.&nbsp;

The Russian region which borders Ukraine has recently reported a rise in attacks becoming an almost daily occurrence in the last few months since Kyiv began its counteroffensive against Moscow.&nbsp;

<h2>Official killed by car bomb in Russian-held town</h2>

A party official, identified as Vladimir Malov, executive secretary of the town branch of Russia’s governing United Russia party, died in hospital, provincial governor Vladimir Saldo said in a post on his Telegram channel.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-develops-invisibility-cloaks-for-its-snipers-heres-how-they-work-643201">Ukraine develops 'invisibility cloaks' for its snipers. Here's how they work</a>

The incident is said to have occurred in the Russian-held town of Nova Kakhovka in Ukraine’s Kherson. Saldo said that it had been a “terrorist attack,” which means indirectly blaming Kyiv for it. Ukraine is yet to respond to the attack or the allegation.&nbsp;

This comes months after Russia claimed to have thwarted a Ukrainian attempt to kill Sergei Aksyonov, the Russian-backed head of annexed Crimea and arrested an agent before he could blow up the Russian official’s car.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Local officials in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region said two people were killed on Saturday (Oct 7) in a village after shelling by Russian forces. Meanwhile, the governor of Russia’s border Belgorod region, said that one civilian had been killed in the village of Urazovo as a result of Ukrainian shelling.

Local officials in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region said two people were killed on Saturday (Oct 7) in a village after shelling by Russian forces. Meanwhile, the governor of Russia’s border Belgorod region, said that one civilian had been killed in the village of Urazovo as a result of Ukrainian shelling. In a separate attack, a party official in the Russian-held town of Nova Kakhovka in the Ukrainian Kherson region was killed by a car bomb, said the provincial governor. Russian shelling kills two in Zaporizhzhia Local officials in the village of Bilenke, in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region, said that two people were killed after Russian forces shelled the area, according to a report by Reuters. They also reported the destruction and damage of at least 10 houses, in the village which is 25 kilometres away from the Russian-controlled left bank of the Dnipro River. ALSO READ | At least three injured in Russian regions hit by Ukrainian shelling, drones: Moscow A local resident also told the news agency that this was the first time that the village was shelled with artillery. What happened in Belgorod? Governor of Russia’s Belgorod region, Vyacheslav Gladkov, reported that a civilian was killed in the village of Urazovo, near the Ukrainian border following shelling by Ukrainian forces. This comes after he had earlier said that Russian air defence systems downed three Ukrainian missiles over the region. The Russian region which borders Ukraine has recently reported a rise in attacks becoming an almost daily occurrence in the last few months since Kyiv began its counteroffensive against Moscow. Official killed by car bomb in Russian-held town A party official, identified as Vladimir Malov, executive secretary of the town branch of Russia’s governing United Russia party, died in hospital, provincial governor Vladimir Saldo said in a post on his Telegram channel. ALSO READ | Ukraine develops 'invisibility cloaks' for its snipers. Here's how they work The incident is said to have occurred in the Russian-held town of Nova Kakhovka in Ukraine’s Kherson. Saldo said that it had been a “terrorist attack,” which means indirectly blaming Kyiv for it. Ukraine is yet to respond to the attack or the allegation. This comes months after Russia claimed to have thwarted a Ukrainian attempt to kill Sergei Aksyonov, the Russian-backed head of annexed Crimea and arrested an agent before he could blow up the Russian official’s car. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At least two people killed in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia after Russian shelling, say officials

The Russia-Ukraine war has reached its 590th day. Amid the ongoing war, Ukraine has reportedly developed "invisibility cloaks" that will help hide the war-torn nation's snipers from Russian military thermal imagery cameras.

<h2>Invisibility cloaks: How will they work?</h2>

The coats called 'Brave 1', as per Mirror UK,&nbsp;will soak up heat, which means that the Russian thermal cameras will be unable to detect Ukrainian soldiers. Reportedly, these coats&nbsp;are also waterproof and lightweight.&nbsp;

As per the report, the newly supplied coats have been tested by the Ukraine special forces.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/traces-of-grenade-discovered-in-remains-of-wagner-chief-prigozhin-putin-643183">Traces of grenade discovered in remains of Wagner chief Prigozhin: Putin</a>

Ukraine's Deputy Minister for Innovation Mykhailo Fedorov called these coats a 'game changer' for Kyiv forces and said: "The cloak blocks the radiation of heat and makes the fighters invisible to the enemy. For example, it will be for snipers or Special Operations Forces that perform combat tasks."

"The invisibility cloak is just one of the developments that will help save the lives of our soldiers at the front. Now we need even more," he added.

<h2>The need for invisibility cloaks</h2>

During the course of the Russia-Ukraine war, Russian drones have spotted Kyiv's marksmen sneaking up on Moscow's forces. This detection has more often than not landed Ukrainian snipers in grave danger.

This development comes as Ukraine on Thursday (5th October) announced that its troops have made headway in the eastern theatre of their counteroffensive operation against aggressor Russia. As per Reuters, Kyiv forces, however, said that they were under pressure further north.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-india-to-wagner-to-ukraine-war-striking-points-of-vladimir-putins-address-643105">From India to Prigozhin to nuclear warning: Striking points of Vladimir Putin's address</a>

"The most difficult area is the Lyman-Kupiansk sector," said Ilia Yevlash, spokesperson for Ukraine's eastern group of forces.

"The intensity of assaults there has increased … The enemy has chosen a new point - Makiivka - and is directing all its main efforts into this direction. Of course, we are also repulsing enemy attacks and inflicting damage on forces and equipment."

Recent days have also seen Western nations criticise Ukraine's counteroffensive strategy. While President Volodymyr Zelensky has acknowledged that it is proceeding more slowly than the military would have liked, he has dismissed Western criticism.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Russia-Ukraine war has reached its 590th day. Amid the ongoing war, Ukraine has reportedly developed "invisibility cloaks" that will help hide the war-torn nation's snipers from Russian military thermal imagery cameras.

The Russia-Ukraine war has reached its 590th day. Amid the ongoing war, Ukraine has reportedly developed "invisibility cloaks" that will help hide the war-torn nation's snipers from Russian military thermal imagery cameras. Invisibility cloaks: How will they work? The coats called 'Brave 1', as per Mirror UK, will soak up heat, which means that the Russian thermal cameras will be unable to detect Ukrainian soldiers. Reportedly, these coats are also waterproof and lightweight. As per the report, the newly supplied coats have been tested by the Ukraine special forces. Also read | Traces of grenade discovered in remains of Wagner chief Prigozhin: Putin Ukraine's Deputy Minister for Innovation Mykhailo Fedorov called these coats a 'game changer' for Kyiv forces and said: "The cloak blocks the radiation of heat and makes the fighters invisible to the enemy. For example, it will be for snipers or Special Operations Forces that perform combat tasks." "The invisibility cloak is just one of the developments that will help save the lives of our soldiers at the front. Now we need even more," he added. The need for invisibility cloaks During the course of the Russia-Ukraine war, Russian drones have spotted Kyiv's marksmen sneaking up on Moscow's forces. This detection has more often than not landed Ukrainian snipers in grave danger. This development comes as Ukraine on Thursday (5th October) announced that its troops have made headway in the eastern theatre of their counteroffensive operation against aggressor Russia. As per Reuters, Kyiv forces, however, said that they were under pressure further north. Also read | From India to Prigozhin to nuclear warning: Striking points of Vladimir Putin's address "The most difficult area is the Lyman-Kupiansk sector," said Ilia Yevlash, spokesperson for Ukraine's eastern group of forces. "The intensity of assaults there has increased … The enemy has chosen a new point - Makiivka - and is directing all its main efforts into this direction. Of course, we are also repulsing enemy attacks and inflicting damage on forces and equipment." Recent days have also seen Western nations criticise Ukraine's counteroffensive strategy. While President Volodymyr Zelensky has acknowledged that it is proceeding more slowly than the military would have liked, he has dismissed Western criticism. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine develops 'invisibility cloaks' for its snipers. Here's how they work

The death toll from&nbsp;an airstrike on the northeastern Ukrainian village in the Kharkiv region rose to 52 on Friday (Oct 6), reported Reuters. Rescue workers are still searching through the rubble for bodies after what Kyiv said was one of Russia's deadliest attacks on civilians since the beginning of its invasion. The United Nations human rights agency has deployed a field team to investigate the attack.&nbsp;

<h2>Death toll rises to 52</h2>

“Fifty-two people died as a result of this missile attack. One person died in a medical facility,” &nbsp;Oleh Synehubov, governor of the Kharkiv region, told Ukrainian television. He added, “People are still there (in hospitals). The injuries are quite serious.”&nbsp;

Those killed include&nbsp;a six-year-old boy after a missile rammed into a cafe and grocery store where people gathered to mourn a fallen Ukrainian soldier.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-alleges-brutal-russian-crime-in-ukraine-after-at-least-48-killed-in-strike-642980">Zelensky alleges 'brutal Russian crime' in Ukraine after at least 51 killed in strike</a>

Officials have also announced a three-day mourning period after the attack.

<h2>UN team in Kharkiv</h2>

A spokesperson for the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) on Friday said they have deployed a field team to investigate the attack.&nbsp;

“The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, who saw for himself the horrific impact of such strikes, is profoundly shocked and condemns these killings,” UN human rights office spokeswoman Elizabeth Throssell told reporters in Geneva.

A probable Russian strike: UN

The UN agency also said that the attack “appeared to be a Russian missile”. At this stage, it is “very difficult to establish with absolute certainty what happened,” said Throssell.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-strikes-ukraines-kharkiv-again-kills-10-year-old-boy-and-injures-others-643262">Russia strikes Ukraine's Kharkiv again, kills 10-year-old boy and injures others</a>

“But given the location, given the fact that the cafe was struck, the indications are that it was a Russian missile,” she added.&nbsp;

The UN rights office’s monitoring mission in Ukraine has been able to identify 35 victims. They have so far established that at least 23 of the fatalities “appeared to be in civilian clothing,” said Throssell, adding that there did not appear to be military targets nearby.&nbsp;

Russia denies attacking civilians

Amid repeated accusations by Kyiv that Moscow is deliberately targeting its civilians, the Kremlin has yet again denied the allegations.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-seeks-to-rejoin-un-human-rights-council-a-year-after-being-removed-639880">Russia seeks to rejoin UN Human Rights Council, a year after being removed</a>

“We repeat that the Russian military does not strike civilian targets. Strikes are carried out on military targets, on places where military personnel are concentrated,” said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov in his daily briefing.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The death toll from an airstrike on the northeastern Ukrainian village in the Kharkiv region rose to 52 on Friday (Oct 6), reported Reuters. Rescue workers are still searching through the rubble for bodies after what Kyiv said was one of Russia's deadliest attacks on civilians since the beginning of its invasion.

The death toll from an airstrike on the northeastern Ukrainian village in the Kharkiv region rose to 52 on Friday (Oct 6), reported Reuters. Rescue workers are still searching through the rubble for bodies after what Kyiv said was one of Russia's deadliest attacks on civilians since the beginning of its invasion. The United Nations human rights agency has deployed a field team to investigate the attack. Death toll rises to 52 “Fifty-two people died as a result of this missile attack. One person died in a medical facility,” Oleh Synehubov, governor of the Kharkiv region, told Ukrainian television. He added, “People are still there (in hospitals). The injuries are quite serious.” Those killed include a six-year-old boy after a missile rammed into a cafe and grocery store where people gathered to mourn a fallen Ukrainian soldier. ALSO READ | Zelensky alleges 'brutal Russian crime' in Ukraine after at least 51 killed in strike Officials have also announced a three-day mourning period after the attack. UN team in Kharkiv A spokesperson for the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) on Friday said they have deployed a field team to investigate the attack. “The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, who saw for himself the horrific impact of such strikes, is profoundly shocked and condemns these killings,” UN human rights office spokeswoman Elizabeth Throssell told reporters in Geneva. A probable Russian strike: UN The UN agency also said that the attack “appeared to be a Russian missile”. At this stage, it is “very difficult to establish with absolute certainty what happened,” said Throssell. ALSO READ | Russia strikes Ukraine's Kharkiv again, kills 10-year-old boy and injures others “But given the location, given the fact that the cafe was struck, the indications are that it was a Russian missile,” she added. The UN rights office’s monitoring mission in Ukraine has been able to identify 35 victims. They have so far established that at least 23 of the fatalities “appeared to be in civilian clothing,” said Throssell, adding that there did not appear to be military targets nearby. Russia denies attacking civilians Amid repeated accusations by Kyiv that Moscow is deliberately targeting its civilians, the Kremlin has yet again denied the allegations. ALSO READ | Russia seeks to rejoin UN Human Rights Council, a year after being removed “We repeat that the Russian military does not strike civilian targets. Strikes are carried out on military targets, on places where military personnel are concentrated,” said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov in his daily briefing. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine: Death toll from Hroza strike rises to 52; UN team deployed to investigate