As the international community expresses concern about the fighting around Europe's largest nuclear power plant, Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday (August 13) that his country is targeting Russian soldiers who shoot at or use the occupied nuclear plant as a shooting base.

Repeating accusations that Russia is using the plant as nuclear blackmail, Zelensky in his evening video address said, "Every Russian soldier&nbsp;who either shoots at the plant, or shoots using the plant as cover, must understand that he becomes a special target for our intelligence agents, for our special services, for our army."&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Ukrainians use 3D tech to preserve the heritage as volunteers scan buildings and monuments

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“And absolutely all officials of the terrorist state, as well as those who help them in this blackmail operation with the nuclear power plant, must answer in an international court,” AFP quoted him as saying.

Early in the battle, Russian troops took control of the station. Ukraine and Russia have traded allegations over a series of recent shelling incidents at Europe's largest Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-tells-officials-if-you-want-victory-for-ukraine-stop-talking-to-press-506073" hreflang="en">Volodymyr Zelensky tells officials, 'if you want victory for Ukraine', stop talking to press</a>

Providing an update on Ukraine's frontline actions, he called the battle in Donbas "brutal".

“Fighting in the south of the country brings good news about the destruction of Russian army forces and their means. No day is wasted —&nbsp;we are reducing the occupiers' potential,” he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/russia-us-in-talks-over-merchant-of-death-for-basketballer-brittny-griner-moscow-506538" hreflang="en">Russia, US in talks over 'Merchant of Death' swap for basketballer Brittney Griner: Moscow</a>

Zelensky also gave an update on the country's grain export situation. According to him, Ukraine was able to export the same amount of grain from three ports in less than two weeks as it had done by road throughout July.

Two more grain-carrying ships left Ukraine's Black Sea ports on Saturday, according to Turkey's defence ministry, increasing the total number of vessels leaving the nation under an UN-brokered pact to 16 so far.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the international community expresses concern about the fighting around Europe's largest nuclear power plant, Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday (August 13) that his country is targeting Russian soldiers who shoot at or use the occupied nuclear plant as a shooting base.

As the international community expresses concern about the fighting around Europe's largest nuclear power plant, Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday (August 13) that his country is targeting Russian soldiers who shoot at or use the occupied nuclear plant as a shooting base. Repeating accusations that Russia is using the plant as nuclear blackmail, Zelensky in his evening video address said, "Every Russian soldier who either shoots at the plant, or shoots using the plant as cover, must understand that he becomes a special target for our intelligence agents, for our special services, for our army." Watch | Ukrainians use 3D tech to preserve the heritage as volunteers scan buildings and monuments “And absolutely all officials of the terrorist state, as well as those who help them in this blackmail operation with the nuclear power plant, must answer in an international court,” AFP quoted him as saying. Early in the battle, Russian troops took control of the station. Ukraine and Russia have traded allegations over a series of recent shelling incidents at Europe's largest Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station. Also read | Volodymyr Zelensky tells officials, 'if you want victory for Ukraine', stop talking to press Providing an update on Ukraine's frontline actions, he called the battle in Donbas "brutal". “Fighting in the south of the country brings good news about the destruction of Russian army forces and their means. No day is wasted — we are reducing the occupiers' potential,” he added. Also read | Russia, US in talks over 'Merchant of Death' swap for basketballer Brittney Griner: Moscow Zelensky also gave an update on the country's grain export situation. According to him, Ukraine was able to export the same amount of grain from three ports in less than two weeks as it had done by road throughout July. Two more grain-carrying ships left Ukraine's Black Sea ports on Saturday, according to Turkey's defence ministry, increasing the total number of vessels leaving the nation under an UN-brokered pact to 16 so far. (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.

Russian soldiers shooting at, or from Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, now Ukraine's 'special targets': Zelensky

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres&nbsp;on Thursday (August 11) called for an end to military activities surrounding Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station as Moscow and Kyiv blamed one other for resumed shelling.

Fighting near the plant has sparked a "grave" problem, the director of the UN nuclear inspector informed the Security Council on Thursday as the body gathered to examine the situation. He demanded access to assess the nuclear reactor.

Speaking to the emergency meeting of the Security Council via video feed, Rafael Grossi said, "This is a serious hour, a grave hour and the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) must be allowed to conduct its mission to Zaporizhzhia as soon as possible."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Threat of nuke disaster: Russian forces fire 80 rockets from nuclear plant site

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As the battle between Ukrainian and Russian forces continues for months, there have been urgent international appeals for an end to violence in Zaporizhzhia, the largest nuclear&nbsp;plant of its kind in Europe.&nbsp;

The two sides have traded accusations over a recent increase in combat near the nuclear power plant, which Russian forces quickly captured after their invasion of Ukraine.

Russian ambassador to the UN Vasily Nebenzya blamed Ukrainian soldiers for the unrest in the area of Zaporizhzhia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-tells-officials-if-you-want-victory-for-ukraine-stop-talking-to-press-506073">Volodymyr Zelensky tells officials, 'if you want victory for Ukraine' stop talking to press</a>

In order to safeguard the security of the IAEA mission, Nebenzya informed the Council, "We call on states that support the Kyiv regime to bring their proxies into check to compel them to immediately and once and for all stop attacks on Zaporizhzhia nuclear power."

Nebenzya added, "This is the only option to prevent a major radioactive catastrophe on the European continent, the risk of which is now more real than ever."

Washington also said&nbsp;that it concurs with requests from the UN and others for the creation of a demilitarised zone surrounding the plant.

The only way to guarantee nuclear safety, Bonnie Jenkins, the undersecretary of state for arms control and international security, warned the Council, would be for Moscow to put an end to its war. "This visit cannot wait any longer," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday (August 11) called for an end to military activities surrounding Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station as Moscow and Kyiv blamed one other for resumed shelling.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday (August 11) called for an end to military activities surrounding Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station as Moscow and Kyiv blamed one other for resumed shelling. Fighting near the plant has sparked a "grave" problem, the director of the UN nuclear inspector informed the Security Council on Thursday as the body gathered to examine the situation. He demanded access to assess the nuclear reactor. Speaking to the emergency meeting of the Security Council via video feed, Rafael Grossi said, "This is a serious hour, a grave hour and the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) must be allowed to conduct its mission to Zaporizhzhia as soon as possible." Watch | Gravitas: Threat of nuke disaster: Russian forces fire 80 rockets from nuclear plant site As the battle between Ukrainian and Russian forces continues for months, there have been urgent international appeals for an end to violence in Zaporizhzhia, the largest nuclear plant of its kind in Europe. The two sides have traded accusations over a recent increase in combat near the nuclear power plant, which Russian forces quickly captured after their invasion of Ukraine. Russian ambassador to the UN Vasily Nebenzya blamed Ukrainian soldiers for the unrest in the area of Zaporizhzhia. Also read | Volodymyr Zelensky tells officials, 'if you want victory for Ukraine' stop talking to press In order to safeguard the security of the IAEA mission, Nebenzya informed the Council, "We call on states that support the Kyiv regime to bring their proxies into check to compel them to immediately and once and for all stop attacks on Zaporizhzhia nuclear power." Nebenzya added, "This is the only option to prevent a major radioactive catastrophe on the European continent, the risk of which is now more real than ever." Washington also said that it concurs with requests from the UN and others for the creation of a demilitarised zone surrounding the plant. The only way to guarantee nuclear safety, Bonnie Jenkins, the undersecretary of state for arms control and international security, warned the Council, would be for Moscow to put an end to its war. "This visit cannot wait any longer," she said. (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.

International nuclear watchdog warns of 'grave' danger around Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant

Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, has warned his troops about divulging information to the press. He instructed government representatives to stop discussing Kyiv's military strategies against Russia with reporters, branding the practice as "frankly irresponsible."

"War is definitely not the time for vanity and loud statements," he said during an evening address, adding, "the fewer details you divulge about our defence plans, the better it will be for the implementation of those defence plans."

Watch |&nbsp;Deepening mystery over Crimea blasts: Moscow in denial, Kyiv remains silent

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As per Reuters, the warning is tied to some remarks that "anonymous" officials made following the most recent explosion at a Crimean air base.

While the Ukrainian government has remained mum regarding who was responsible for the blasts, reports in the New York Times and Washington Post newspapers that quoted "unidentified officials" claimed that Ukrainian forces were to blame for Tuesday's explosions that damaged a Russian air base in Crimea.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/even-as-russia-continues-to-deny-an-attack-before-after-image-of-crimea-air-base-show-significant-damage-505792">Even as Russia continues to deny an attack, before &amp; after images of Crimea air base show significant damage</a>

Zelensky addressed his statements to government, local, and military representatives, as well as other individuals who he claimed were speculating on what was happening at the front.

"If you want to generate loud headlines, that's one thing - it's frankly irresponsible. If you want victory for Ukraine, that is another thing, and you should be aware of your responsibility for every word you say about our state's plans for defence or counter-attacks."

Security agencies have launched an investigation into one of the instances where officials have spoken to reporters, according to deputy defence minister Hanna Malyar.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-detonation-of-ammunition-caused-blast-at-crimea-military-airbase-505265">Russia says 'detonation of ammunition' caused blast at Crimea military airbase</a>

She claimed on Facebook that " a leak like this disrupts the plans of the Ukrainian armed forces since the enemy adjusts its actions and uses this information against us."

Russia has steadfastly maintained that there was no attack on the air base, that the explosion was caused by an ammunition blast, which had no fatalities, and that no equipment had been damaged.

However, Planet Labs, a US-based firm, has produced satellite photos that show otherwise. Images of Saky air base show substantial burnt ground that was left over from fires that started after the explosions.

Images show many clearly visible craters and at least eight planes that appear to have been damaged or destroyed.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, has warned his troops about divulging information to the press. He instructed government representatives to stop discussing Kyiv's military strategies against Russia with reporters, branding the practice as "frankly irresponsible.

Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, has warned his troops about divulging information to the press. He instructed government representatives to stop discussing Kyiv's military strategies against Russia with reporters, branding the practice as "frankly irresponsible." "War is definitely not the time for vanity and loud statements," he said during an evening address, adding, "the fewer details you divulge about our defence plans, the better it will be for the implementation of those defence plans." Watch | Deepening mystery over Crimea blasts: Moscow in denial, Kyiv remains silent As per Reuters, the warning is tied to some remarks that "anonymous" officials made following the most recent explosion at a Crimean air base. While the Ukrainian government has remained mum regarding who was responsible for the blasts, reports in the New York Times and Washington Post newspapers that quoted "unidentified officials" claimed that Ukrainian forces were to blame for Tuesday's explosions that damaged a Russian air base in Crimea. Also read | Even as Russia continues to deny an attack, before & after images of Crimea air base show significant damage Zelensky addressed his statements to government, local, and military representatives, as well as other individuals who he claimed were speculating on what was happening at the front. "If you want to generate loud headlines, that's one thing - it's frankly irresponsible. If you want victory for Ukraine, that is another thing, and you should be aware of your responsibility for every word you say about our state's plans for defence or counter-attacks." Security agencies have launched an investigation into one of the instances where officials have spoken to reporters, according to deputy defence minister Hanna Malyar. Also read | Russia says 'detonation of ammunition' caused blast at Crimea military airbase She claimed on Facebook that " a leak like this disrupts the plans of the Ukrainian armed forces since the enemy adjusts its actions and uses this information against us." Russia has steadfastly maintained that there was no attack on the air base, that the explosion was caused by an ammunition blast, which had no fatalities, and that no equipment had been damaged. However, Planet Labs, a US-based firm, has produced satellite photos that show otherwise. Images of Saky air base show substantial burnt ground that was left over from fires that started after the explosions. Images show many clearly visible craters and at least eight planes that appear to have been damaged or destroyed. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Volodymyr Zelensky tells officials, 'if you want victory for Ukraine', stop talking to press

The Russian Defense Ministry rapidly downplayed the damage after explosions tore through a Russian air base in Crimea on Tuesday, claiming that an ammunition blast had left no victims and that no equipment had been destroyed. However, now satellite images by US-based Planet Labs point to the contrary. Pictures of Saky air base near Novofedorivka on the west coast of the peninsula display significant areas of burned ground left over from fires that had erupted after the explosions. The main runways of the base appear to be undamaged, according to a BBC report, but at least eight aircraft appear to have been damaged or destroyed, with multiple craters being clearly visible.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Blast rips through Russian base in Crimea

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It points out that the majority of damaged aircraft are located in a specific location of the base where several aircraft were left without the protection of hangars and parked in the open.

As per the New York Times, videos taken at the scene and a report by local officials, who subsequently issued a state of emergency, painted a different picture. At least one fatality, more than a dozen injuries were reported, and hundreds of others have apparently been moved to shelters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-detonation-of-ammunition-caused-blast-at-crimea-military-airbase-505265">Russia says 'detonation of ammunition' caused blast at Crimea military airbase</a>

Officials reported that 20 stores, other buildings, and more than 60 apartment buildings had been damaged.&nbsp;However, it is still unclear how or by what the base was damaged.

Russia insists that the fire safety regulations were disregarded, which led to ammunition exploding in a store and causing the explosions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thirteen-civilians-killed-in-russian-strikes-near-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-says-ukraine-505586" hreflang="en">Thirteen killed in Russian strikes near Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, says Ukraine</a>

Ukraine has not claimed responsibility. In a statement, the Ukrainian defence ministry said it "once again draws attention to fire safety rules". As Reuters points out, Ukraine used&nbsp;language that was highly suggestive and reminiscent of its response to mysterious blasts on Russian soil. "I think that Russian military guys in this airbase ruined their very simply known rule: don't smoke in dangerous places," said Ukrainian Defense minister, Oleksiy Reznikov. "That's it."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Russian Defense Ministry rapidly downplayed the damage after explosions tore through a Russian air base in Crimea on Tuesday, claiming that an ammunition blast had left no victims and that no equipment had been destroyed.

The Russian Defense Ministry rapidly downplayed the damage after explosions tore through a Russian air base in Crimea on Tuesday, claiming that an ammunition blast had left no victims and that no equipment had been destroyed. However, now satellite images by US-based Planet Labs point to the contrary. Pictures of Saky air base near Novofedorivka on the west coast of the peninsula display significant areas of burned ground left over from fires that had erupted after the explosions. The main runways of the base appear to be undamaged, according to a BBC report, but at least eight aircraft appear to have been damaged or destroyed, with multiple craters being clearly visible. Watch | Gravitas: Blast rips through Russian base in Crimea It points out that the majority of damaged aircraft are located in a specific location of the base where several aircraft were left without the protection of hangars and parked in the open. As per the New York Times, videos taken at the scene and a report by local officials, who subsequently issued a state of emergency, painted a different picture. At least one fatality, more than a dozen injuries were reported, and hundreds of others have apparently been moved to shelters. Also read | Russia says 'detonation of ammunition' caused blast at Crimea military airbase Officials reported that 20 stores, other buildings, and more than 60 apartment buildings had been damaged. However, it is still unclear how or by what the base was damaged. Russia insists that the fire safety regulations were disregarded, which led to ammunition exploding in a store and causing the explosions. Also read | Thirteen killed in Russian strikes near Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, says Ukraine Ukraine has not claimed responsibility. In a statement, the Ukrainian defence ministry said it "once again draws attention to fire safety rules". As Reuters points out, Ukraine used language that was highly suggestive and reminiscent of its response to mysterious blasts on Russian soil. "I think that Russian military guys in this airbase ruined their very simply known rule: don't smoke in dangerous places," said Ukrainian Defense minister, Oleksiy Reznikov. "That's it." (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.

Even as Russia continues to deny an attack, before & after images of Crimea air base show significant damage

Long-time Russian ally China has called the United States the "main instigator" of the Ukraine crisis. As per a Reuters report, China's ambassador to Moscow, Zhang Hanhui, accused Washington of driving Russia into a corner with repeated NATO defence alliance expansions and support for forces working to align Ukraine with the European Union rather than Moscow. Hanhui made this statement in an interview with the Russian state news agency TASS that was released on Wednesday.&nbsp;He also criticised Nancy Pelosi, the speaker of the US House, for travelling to Taiwan, which China has long claimed as part of its territory.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: US announces largest military package yet for Ukraine

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Zhang was quoted as remarking, "As the initiator and main instigator of the Ukrainian crisis, Washington, while imposing unprecedented comprehensive sanctions on Russia, continues to supply arms and military equipment to Ukraine."

"Their ultimate goal is to exhaust and crush Russia with a protracted war and the cudgel of sanctions," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-journalist-who-called-out-vladimir-putin-over-ukraine-invasion-now-faces-10-years-in-jail-505738" hreflang="en">Russian journalist who called out Vladimir Putin over Ukraine invasion now faces 10 years in jail</a>

The ambassador's argument for the invasion of Ukraine, which has resulted in thousands of fatalities, the destruction of entire cities, and the forced emigration of more than a quarter of the people, was quite similar to the one used by Russia itself.

According to Zhang, the most essential rule for preserving peace and stability in the world is non-interference in internal matters. Not surprisingly, he&nbsp;used this principle to condemn Washington's Taiwan policy, but not Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thirteen-civilians-killed-in-russian-strikes-near-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-says-ukraine-505586" hreflang="en">Thirteen killed in Russian strikes near Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, says Ukraine</a>

He also criticised Nancy Pelosi, for travelling to the self-governing Island nation of&nbsp;Taiwan last week, which China claims as its own, and contended that the US was using the same strategies in Taiwan and Ukraine to "revive a Cold War mentality, contain China and Russia, and provoke major power rivalry and confrontation."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Long-time Russian ally China has called the United States the "main instigator" of the Ukraine crisis. As per a Reuters report, China's ambassador to Moscow, Zhang Hanhui, accused Washington of driving Russia into a corner with repeated NATO defence alliance expansions and support for forces working to align Ukraine with the European Union rather than Moscow.

Long-time Russian ally China has called the United States the "main instigator" of the Ukraine crisis. As per a Reuters report, China's ambassador to Moscow, Zhang Hanhui, accused Washington of driving Russia into a corner with repeated NATO defence alliance expansions and support for forces working to align Ukraine with the European Union rather than Moscow. Hanhui made this statement in an interview with the Russian state news agency TASS that was released on Wednesday. He also criticised Nancy Pelosi, the speaker of the US House, for travelling to Taiwan, which China has long claimed as part of its territory. Watch | Gravitas: US announces largest military package yet for Ukraine Zhang was quoted as remarking, "As the initiator and main instigator of the Ukrainian crisis, Washington, while imposing unprecedented comprehensive sanctions on Russia, continues to supply arms and military equipment to Ukraine." "Their ultimate goal is to exhaust and crush Russia with a protracted war and the cudgel of sanctions," he added. Also read | Russian journalist who called out Vladimir Putin over Ukraine invasion now faces 10 years in jail The ambassador's argument for the invasion of Ukraine, which has resulted in thousands of fatalities, the destruction of entire cities, and the forced emigration of more than a quarter of the people, was quite similar to the one used by Russia itself. According to Zhang, the most essential rule for preserving peace and stability in the world is non-interference in internal matters. Not surprisingly, he used this principle to condemn Washington's Taiwan policy, but not Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Also read | Thirteen killed in Russian strikes near Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, says Ukraine He also criticised Nancy Pelosi, for travelling to the self-governing Island nation of Taiwan last week, which China claims as its own, and contended that the US was using the same strategies in Taiwan and Ukraine to "revive a Cold War mentality, contain China and Russia, and provoke major power rivalry and confrontation." (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.

China calls United States 'the initiator and main instigator of the Ukrainian crisis'

Marina Ovsyannikova, the former Russian state TV journalist who protested against President Vladimir Putin's incursion in Ukraine, has now been charged with spreading false information about the country's army. If convicted, Ovsyannikova faces a jail term of up to 10 years. Ukraine-born Ovsyannikova came into the international spotlight after she staged a walk-out in front of a studio camera with an anti-war placard during a live news broadcast on Russia's flagship Channel One.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Blast rips through Russian base in Crimea

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As per Reuters, information about the charges against her was shared by her lawyer on Telegram. Apparently, the charges are related to a protest last month where Ovsyannikova held up an anti-war placard on the Moskva river embankment opposite Kremlin and shared pictures on her telegram channel.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-journalist-who-dared-to-criticise-vladimir-putin-picked-up-by-police-while-walking-dogs-498308">Russian journalist who dared to criticise Vladimir Putin picked up by police while walking dogs</a>

Soon after, she was picked up by the police while out walking her pet dogs. At that time, she was not charged but was made to wait at the police station for a few hours.

"Went for a walk with the dogs, just stepped outside the gate, people in uniform approached me," she had posted,&nbsp;referring to a police station in the Moscow district added, "Now I'm sitting in Krasnoselsky ministry of internal affairs".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thirteen-civilians-killed-in-russian-strikes-near-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-says-ukraine-505586" hreflang="en">Thirteen killed in Russian strikes near Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, says Ukraine</a>

However, since then she has been detained and fined several times for her continuing opposition to Russia's military campaign in Ukraine.

Reuters reports that earlier on Wednesday the journalist had also announced that the police Russian police had forced their way into her home in the early hours of the morning around 6 am to conduct a search before taking her away to charge her.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Marina Ovsyannikova, the former Russian state TV journalist who protested against President Vladimir Putin's incursion in Ukraine, has now been charged with spreading false information about the country's army.

Marina Ovsyannikova, the former Russian state TV journalist who protested against President Vladimir Putin's incursion in Ukraine, has now been charged with spreading false information about the country's army. If convicted, Ovsyannikova faces a jail term of up to 10 years. Ukraine-born Ovsyannikova came into the international spotlight after she staged a walk-out in front of a studio camera with an anti-war placard during a live news broadcast on Russia's flagship Channel One. Watch | Gravitas: Blast rips through Russian base in Crimea As per Reuters, information about the charges against her was shared by her lawyer on Telegram. Apparently, the charges are related to a protest last month where Ovsyannikova held up an anti-war placard on the Moskva river embankment opposite Kremlin and shared pictures on her telegram channel. Also read | Russian journalist who dared to criticise Vladimir Putin picked up by police while walking dogs Soon after, she was picked up by the police while out walking her pet dogs. At that time, she was not charged but was made to wait at the police station for a few hours. "Went for a walk with the dogs, just stepped outside the gate, people in uniform approached me," she had posted, referring to a police station in the Moscow district added, "Now I'm sitting in Krasnoselsky ministry of internal affairs". Also read | Thirteen killed in Russian strikes near Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, says Ukraine However, since then she has been detained and fined several times for her continuing opposition to Russia's military campaign in Ukraine. Reuters reports that earlier on Wednesday the journalist had also announced that the police Russian police had forced their way into her home in the early hours of the morning around 6 am to conduct a search before taking her away to charge her. (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.

Russian journalist who called out Vladimir Putin over Ukraine invasion now faces 10 years in jail

“You cannot switch off death,” says Germany’s cremation consortium chairman, Svend-Joerk Sobolewski. The Russia-Ukraine war has given rise to many crises around the world; inflation, supply chain, and food security. But now, in Germany, another problem has come to light. With the sword of Russian gas supplies being cut off hanging over their heads, Germans now worry: What would happen to their dead?&nbsp;Businesses, including crematoriums, are creating backup plans to deal with the rising prices of gas and the possibility that it won’t be available at all.

As tensions between Russia and Europe get heightened over western sanctions, the whole of Germany is on alert for a possible cut-off of supply by Russian state gas giant Gazprom.

Watch |&nbsp;Gas ban imposed as Latvian firm was paying in Euros to Russia

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Taking to Reuters, Svend-Joerk Sobolewski said that in the case of any rationing, the industry should be prioritised because most crematoriums require gas to operate.

Death cannot be turned off, he remarked.

In Germany, people typically prefer to be cremated when they die, which might pose an issue if Russia was to shut off the gas supplies.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/an-eye-in-space-russia-launches-satellite-to-snoop-on-us-national-security-mission-heres-whats-happening-503592" hreflang="en">'An eye in space': Russia launches satellite to snoop on US national security mission. Here's what's happening</a>

According to statistics from the German undertakers’ association, about three-quarters of the approximately one million persons who pass away each year in Germany are cremated.

That is a high rate when compared to other European nations, said Stephan Neuser, Germany’s cremation consortium’s executive director while talking to Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-using-body-double-fresh-rumours-surface-503867" hreflang="en">Putin using body double? Fresh rumours surface</a>

He claimed that the practice had roots in the practically universal practice of cremation in former East Germany and has persisted as a result of relocating families, an ageing population, and a preference for urns over unmaintained graves.

In the long run, switching from gas to electricity might be an option, but Neuser claimed that would take time.

(With inputs from agencies)

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“You cannot switch off death,” says Germany’s cremation consortium chairman, Svend-Joerk Sobolewski. The Russia-Ukraine war has given rise to many crises around the world; inflation, supply chain, and food security.

“You cannot switch off death,” says Germany’s cremation consortium chairman, Svend-Joerk Sobolewski. The Russia-Ukraine war has given rise to many crises around the world; inflation, supply chain, and food security. But now, in Germany, another problem has come to light. With the sword of Russian gas supplies being cut off hanging over their heads, Germans now worry: What would happen to their dead? Businesses, including crematoriums, are creating backup plans to deal with the rising prices of gas and the possibility that it won’t be available at all. As tensions between Russia and Europe get heightened over western sanctions, the whole of Germany is on alert for a possible cut-off of supply by Russian state gas giant Gazprom. Watch | Gas ban imposed as Latvian firm was paying in Euros to Russia Taking to Reuters, Svend-Joerk Sobolewski said that in the case of any rationing, the industry should be prioritised because most crematoriums require gas to operate. Death cannot be turned off, he remarked. In Germany, people typically prefer to be cremated when they die, which might pose an issue if Russia was to shut off the gas supplies. Also read | 'An eye in space': Russia launches satellite to snoop on US national security mission. Here's what's happening According to statistics from the German undertakers’ association, about three-quarters of the approximately one million persons who pass away each year in Germany are cremated. That is a high rate when compared to other European nations, said Stephan Neuser, Germany’s cremation consortium’s executive director while talking to Reuters. Also read | Putin using body double? Fresh rumours surface He claimed that the practice had roots in the practically universal practice of cremation in former East Germany and has persisted as a result of relocating families, an ageing population, and a preference for urns over unmaintained graves. In the long run, switching from gas to electricity might be an option, but Neuser claimed that would take time. (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.

‘You can’t switch off death’: The ‘chilling’ effect of Russia-Ukraine war on Germany’s dead

Slamming Russia's actions around Ukraine's largest nuclear power plant, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called it "the height of irresponsibility."

Accusing Moscow of using it as a "nuclear shield" in attacks on Ukrainian forces, Blinken said Washington was "deeply concerned" that Moscow was now using the plant as a military base.

After nuclear nonproliferation talks at the United Nations in New York, Blinken told reporters &nbsp;that "Of course, the Ukrainians cannot fire back lest there be a terrible accident involving the nuclear plant."&nbsp;

Calling it a "nuclear shield," Blinken said Russia's actions went beyond war crimes and it should be punished for it.

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If the vital interests of the US or its allies were in danger, then also Washington&nbsp;would only consider the use of nuclear weapons in extreme circumstances according to Blinken.

It comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin said that nuclear war should not be unleashed as there could be no winners in such a war.

Blaming trade for the attack on a prison in Olenivka, both Ukraine and Russia accused each other of killing dozens of prisoners of war captured after the fall of Mariupol.

While Kyiv said Russia was behind the of shelling the prison to cover up the alleged torture and execution of Ukrainians, Moscow claimed that Ukraine’s military used US-supplied precision High Mobility Artillery Rocket System rockets to strike the prison.

During the first weeks of its invasion of Ukraine, Russia was accused of firing shells dangerously close to the Zaporizhzhia plant.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.&nbsp; 
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Slamming Russia's actions around Ukraine's largest nuclear power plant, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called it "the height of irresponsibility." Accusing Moscow of using it as a "nuclear shield" in attacks on Ukrainian forces, Blinken said Washington was "deeply concerned" that Moscow was now using the plant as a military base.

Slamming Russia's actions around Ukraine's largest nuclear power plant, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called it "the height of irresponsibility." Accusing Moscow of using it as a "nuclear shield" in attacks on Ukrainian forces, Blinken said Washington was "deeply concerned" that Moscow was now using the plant as a military base. After nuclear nonproliferation talks at the United Nations in New York, Blinken told reporters that "Of course, the Ukrainians cannot fire back lest there be a terrible accident involving the nuclear plant." Calling it a "nuclear shield," Blinken said Russia's actions went beyond war crimes and it should be punished for it. × If the vital interests of the US or its allies were in danger, then also Washington would only consider the use of nuclear weapons in extreme circumstances according to Blinken. It comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin said that nuclear war should not be unleashed as there could be no winners in such a war. Blaming trade for the attack on a prison in Olenivka, both Ukraine and Russia accused each other of killing dozens of prisoners of war captured after the fall of Mariupol. While Kyiv said Russia was behind the of shelling the prison to cover up the alleged torture and execution of Ukrainians, Moscow claimed that Ukraine’s military used US-supplied precision High Mobility Artillery Rocket System rockets to strike the prison. During the first weeks of its invasion of Ukraine, Russia was accused of firing shells dangerously close to the Zaporizhzhia plant. 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) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

'Height of irresponsibility': Blinken slams Russia's actions around Ukraine's largest nuclear power plant

As the six-month anniversary of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine approaches, tensions between the west and Russia continue to mount. Now, Russian lawmakers are attempting to ban the adoption of Russian children by nationals of "unfriendly" nations.&nbsp;Russia increased the list of nations, it considers "unfriendly" after the West imposed unprecedented sanctions on Moscow in response to President Vladimir Putin's decision to send troops to pro-Western Ukraine on February 24.&nbsp;The list presently consists of all EU member states as well as the US, Australia, Canada, Britain, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia pounds Ukraine's Mykolaiv, millionaire businessman dies in attack

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Both houses of the Russian parliament must ratify the legislation before President Vladimir Putin can sign it into effect. If approved, the bill would amend a legislation from 2012 that restricts US families' ability to adopt Russian children.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-blacklists-39-uk-citizens-including-ex-pm-david-cameron-for-demonising-it-on-international-stage-502640" hreflang="en">Russia blacklists 39 UK citizens, including ex-PM David Cameron for 'demonising' it on international stage</a>

Moscow had prohibited American families from adopting Russian children in 2012 as retaliation for the United States government's decision to sanction Russian individuals involved in the 2009 death in custody of lawyer Sergei Magnitsky.

At the time, there was controversy over the restriction because Kremlin critics claimed it made Russian orphans, many of whom had physical or mental disabilities, victims of a standoff between Washington and Moscow.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-adoption-day-countries-that-allow-single-parent-adoptions-427987">World Adoption Day: Countries that allow single-parent adoptions</a>

The number of Russian children adopted by foreign families has significantly decreased since the law's introduction in 2012. According to a report by Russian state news agency TASS,&nbsp;240 Russian infants were adopted overseas in 2019, down from 2,604 in 2012.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the six-month anniversary of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine approaches, tensions between the west and Russia continue to mount. Now, Russian lawmakers are attempting to ban the adoption of Russian children by nationals of "unfriendly" nations.

As the six-month anniversary of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine approaches, tensions between the west and Russia continue to mount. Now, Russian lawmakers are attempting to ban the adoption of Russian children by nationals of "unfriendly" nations. Russia increased the list of nations, it considers "unfriendly" after the West imposed unprecedented sanctions on Moscow in response to President Vladimir Putin's decision to send troops to pro-Western Ukraine on February 24. The list presently consists of all EU member states as well as the US, Australia, Canada, Britain, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea. Watch | Russia pounds Ukraine's Mykolaiv, millionaire businessman dies in attack Both houses of the Russian parliament must ratify the legislation before President Vladimir Putin can sign it into effect. If approved, the bill would amend a legislation from 2012 that restricts US families' ability to adopt Russian children. Also read | Russia blacklists 39 UK citizens, including ex-PM David Cameron for 'demonising' it on international stage Moscow had prohibited American families from adopting Russian children in 2012 as retaliation for the United States government's decision to sanction Russian individuals involved in the 2009 death in custody of lawyer Sergei Magnitsky. At the time, there was controversy over the restriction because Kremlin critics claimed it made Russian orphans, many of whom had physical or mental disabilities, victims of a standoff between Washington and Moscow. Also read | World Adoption Day: Countries that allow single-parent adoptions The number of Russian children adopted by foreign families has significantly decreased since the law's introduction in 2012. According to a report by Russian state news agency TASS, 240 Russian infants were adopted overseas in 2019, down from 2,604 in 2012. (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.

Moscow seeks to stop 'unfriendly' nations from adopting its children. List includes EU nations, UK, US & more

Tensions between Russia and the West are rising as the six-month mark of Russia's invasion of Ukraine approaches without any signs that Moscow will back down. On Monday, Russia announced that it had placed 39 British citizens on a "blacklist," and has barred them from entering the country. Reportedly the list includes former prime minister David Cameron and Labour Party leader Keir Starmer.&nbsp;Following President Vladimir Putin's deployment of troops to Ukraine on February 24, London has been one of Kyiv's loudest allies.

The Russian Foreign Ministry has accused the listed United Kingdom citizens, officials, business people and journalists of contributing to "the hostile course of London aimed at the demonisation of our country and its international isolation" according to the foreign ministry of Russia.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia pounds Ukraine's Mykolaiv, millionaire businessman dies in attack

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As per Reuters in its statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said that this list will be further expanded.&nbsp;

"Given London's destructive drive to spin the sanctions flywheel on far-fetched and absurd pretexts, work on expanding the Russian stop-list will continue."

The ministry further said, "The choice in favour of confrontation is the conscious decision of the British political establishment, which bears all responsibility for the consequences."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-invasion-might-have-caused-ukraines-harvest-to-be-half-than-the-usual-zelensky-502629" hreflang="en">Russian invasion might have caused Ukraine’s harvest to be half than the usual: Zelensky</a>

Since the beginning of its military operation in Ukraine, Moscow has barred several dozen British citizens from entering the country, primarily politicians and journalists. Now, several Labour MPs, Scottish parliamentarians, and House of Lords members are among the new additions reported AFP.

The list of journalists or media persons barred includes the chief of the BBC's news gathering, Jonathan Munro, TV host Piers Morgan, and BBC News presenter Huw Edwards.

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Tensions between Russia and the West are rising as the six-month mark of Russia's invasion of Ukraine approaches without any signs that Moscow will back down. On Monday, Russia announced that it had placed 39 British citizens on a "blacklist," and has barred them from entering the country.

Tensions between Russia and the West are rising as the six-month mark of Russia's invasion of Ukraine approaches without any signs that Moscow will back down. On Monday, Russia announced that it had placed 39 British citizens on a "blacklist," and has barred them from entering the country. Reportedly the list includes former prime minister David Cameron and Labour Party leader Keir Starmer. Following President Vladimir Putin's deployment of troops to Ukraine on February 24, London has been one of Kyiv's loudest allies. The Russian Foreign Ministry has accused the listed United Kingdom citizens, officials, business people and journalists of contributing to "the hostile course of London aimed at the demonisation of our country and its international isolation" according to the foreign ministry of Russia. Watch | Russia pounds Ukraine's Mykolaiv, millionaire businessman dies in attack As per Reuters in its statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said that this list will be further expanded. "Given London's destructive drive to spin the sanctions flywheel on far-fetched and absurd pretexts, work on expanding the Russian stop-list will continue." The ministry further said, "The choice in favour of confrontation is the conscious decision of the British political establishment, which bears all responsibility for the consequences." Also read | Russian invasion might have caused Ukraine’s harvest to be half than the usual: Zelensky Since the beginning of its military operation in Ukraine, Moscow has barred several dozen British citizens from entering the country, primarily politicians and journalists. Now, several Labour MPs, Scottish parliamentarians, and House of Lords members are among the new additions reported AFP. The list of journalists or media persons barred includes the chief of the BBC's news gathering, Jonathan Munro, TV host Piers Morgan, and BBC News presenter Huw Edwards. (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 blacklists 39 UK citizens, including ex-PM David Cameron for 'demonising' it on international stage

Ukraine's first lady, Olena Zelenska, made an emotional plea to US legislators on Wednesday for more weapons to combat Russian invaders. Zelenska said she was speaking on behalf of millions of Ukrainian parents fearing for their children and that Ukraine needs air-defence systems "in order for rockets not to kill children in their strollers". Acknowledging that it was unusual for a first lady to seek firearms she insisted that it was necessary. She pleaded with the US lawmakers "Help us to stop this terror against Ukrainians".&nbsp;She also met President Joe Biden on Tuesday, who along with the US Congress has been eager to provide Ukraine with weapons, and has approved a $40 billion package in May.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Putin scores a big win against America

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"We want every father and every mother to be able to tell their child, 'Go to sleep peacefully, there will be no more air strikes, no more missile strikes.' Is this too much to wish for?" she asked.

As Russian soldiers advance in the east, Ukraine has been attempting to acquire a more consistent flow of arms, notably longer-range precise rockets.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/america-to-send-four-more-precision-rocket-systems-to-ukraine-says-us-defense-secretary-499308" hreflang="en">America to send four more precision rocket systems to Ukraine, says US defence secretary</a>

Zelenska thanked the US politicians for their help and remarked, "While Russia kills, America saves."

Following the lead of her husband, President Volodymyr Zelensky, who had previously used horrific images during his virtual appearance before the US Congress, Olena Zelenska, exhibited photographs of happy children who had been killed or injured by Russia.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-asks-countries-to-cut-gas-use-to-tackle-russian-blackmail-499302" hreflang="en">EU asks countries to cut gas use to tackle Russian 'blackmail'</a>

One of them was Liza Dmitrieva, a 4-year-old with Down syndrome who was seen in her mother's video smiling in her stroller an hour before she was killed by a Russian attack in Vinnytsia last week.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine's first lady, Olena Zelenska, made an emotional plea to US legislators on Wednesday for more weapons to combat Russian invaders. Zelenska said she was speaking on behalf of millions of Ukrainian parents fearing for their children and that Ukraine needs air-defence systems "in order for rockets not to kill children in their strollers".

Ukraine's first lady, Olena Zelenska, made an emotional plea to US legislators on Wednesday for more weapons to combat Russian invaders. Zelenska said she was speaking on behalf of millions of Ukrainian parents fearing for their children and that Ukraine needs air-defence systems "in order for rockets not to kill children in their strollers". Acknowledging that it was unusual for a first lady to seek firearms she insisted that it was necessary. She pleaded with the US lawmakers "Help us to stop this terror against Ukrainians". She also met President Joe Biden on Tuesday, who along with the US Congress has been eager to provide Ukraine with weapons, and has approved a $40 billion package in May. Watch | Gravitas: Putin scores a big win against America "We want every father and every mother to be able to tell their child, 'Go to sleep peacefully, there will be no more air strikes, no more missile strikes.' Is this too much to wish for?" she asked. As Russian soldiers advance in the east, Ukraine has been attempting to acquire a more consistent flow of arms, notably longer-range precise rockets. Also read | America to send four more precision rocket systems to Ukraine, says US defence secretary Zelenska thanked the US politicians for their help and remarked, "While Russia kills, America saves." Following the lead of her husband, President Volodymyr Zelensky, who had previously used horrific images during his virtual appearance before the US Congress, Olena Zelenska, exhibited photographs of happy children who had been killed or injured by Russia. Also read | EU asks countries to cut gas use to tackle Russian 'blackmail' One of them was Liza Dmitrieva, a 4-year-old with Down syndrome who was seen in her mother's video smiling in her stroller an hour before she was killed by a Russian attack in Vinnytsia last week. (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.

'While Russia kills, America saves': Ukraine's first lady asks US for more weapons to combat Russian invaders

Months after she interrupted a live TV broadcast to protest Moscow's military campaign in Ukraine, a Russian journalist named Marina Ovsyannikova was detained by the country's police on Sunday. According to AFP, her arrest came just days after Ovsyannikova demonstrated alone near the Kremlin with a sign criticising Russia's presence in Ukraine and President Vladimir Putin. The journalist had gone out for a walk with her dogs when she was abruptly approached by people in uniforms, reports Reuters. Her arrest was announced on her Telegram channel, along with photographs of two police officers leading her towards a white van.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukrainian vet dodges mines to save animals in Mariupol

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"Marina has been detained," said the post, adding "There is no information on where she is."

The Ria-Novosti news agency received confirmation of her detention from her attorney, Dmitri Zakhvatov, who claimed to be unaware of Ovsyannikova's whereabouts.

He said, "I assume that it is linked one way or another to her act of protest."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-will-take-more-aggressive-stance-in-ukraine-says-defence-minister-sergei-shoigu-498178" hreflang="en">Russia will take more aggressive stance against Ukraine, says defence minister Sergei Shoigu</a>

Shortly after the arrest, as per Reuters Marina posted a picture of herself and her two dogs on her Facebook page.&nbsp;

"Went for a walk with the dogs, just stepped outside the gate, people in uniform approached me," she wrote.&nbsp;Referring to a police station in the Moscow district, she added, "Now I'm sitting in Krasnoselsky ministry of internal affairs".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/war-is-war-but-lunch-must-be-served-on-time-says-ukrainian-sushi-chef-498291" hreflang="en">'War is war, but lunch must be served on time,' says Ukrainian sushi chef</a>

She was released three hours later.&nbsp;

"I'm home. Everything is okay," she posted on Facebook, adding "but now I know it's always best to bring a suitcase and passport if you go out."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Months after she interrupted a live TV broadcast to protest Moscow's military campaign in Ukraine, a Russian journalist named Marina Ovsyannikova was detained by the country's police on Sunday.

Months after she interrupted a live TV broadcast to protest Moscow's military campaign in Ukraine, a Russian journalist named Marina Ovsyannikova was detained by the country's police on Sunday. According to AFP, her arrest came just days after Ovsyannikova demonstrated alone near the Kremlin with a sign criticising Russia's presence in Ukraine and President Vladimir Putin. The journalist had gone out for a walk with her dogs when she was abruptly approached by people in uniforms, reports Reuters. Her arrest was announced on her Telegram channel, along with photographs of two police officers leading her towards a white van. Watch | Ukrainian vet dodges mines to save animals in Mariupol "Marina has been detained," said the post, adding "There is no information on where she is." The Ria-Novosti news agency received confirmation of her detention from her attorney, Dmitri Zakhvatov, who claimed to be unaware of Ovsyannikova's whereabouts. He said, "I assume that it is linked one way or another to her act of protest." Also read | Russia will take more aggressive stance against Ukraine, says defence minister Sergei Shoigu Shortly after the arrest, as per Reuters Marina posted a picture of herself and her two dogs on her Facebook page. "Went for a walk with the dogs, just stepped outside the gate, people in uniform approached me," she wrote. Referring to a police station in the Moscow district, she added, "Now I'm sitting in Krasnoselsky ministry of internal affairs". Also read | 'War is war, but lunch must be served on time,' says Ukrainian sushi chef She was released three hours later. "I'm home. Everything is okay," she posted on Facebook, adding "but now I know it's always best to bring a suitcase and passport if you go out." (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.

Russian journalist who dared to criticise Vladimir Putin picked up by police while walking dogs

The Russian aggression on Ukraine has laid waste to many things: towns, lives, cultural heritages and a scientific inquiry. The European Space Agency has "officially" ended its association with Russia for a life-hunting Mars rover mission. As per Space.com, the mission that was scheduled to launch in the latter&nbsp;part of this decade, in the late 2020s was initially suspended over Russia's invasion of its neighbour. As part of a larger project, dubbed ExoMars, the European Space Agency (ESA) had been developing the alien life-seeking&nbsp;mission in collaboration with its Russian equivalent, Roscosmos. However, now ESA chief Josef Aschbacher has announced that this suspension will be upgraded to a termination.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;European Space Agency suspends joint space mission with Russia

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Taking to Twitter, Aschbacher said, "today&nbsp;@ESA Council addressed the ExoMars Rover and Surface Platform mission, acknowledging that the circumstances which led to the suspension of the cooperation with Roscosmos – the war in Ukraine and the resulting sanctions – continue to prevail."

He added, "As a consequence, Council mandated me to officially terminate the currently suspended cooperation with Roscosmos on the ExoMars Rover and Surface Platform mission."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tensions-in-iss-russia-announces-that-it-will-be-ending-space-cooperation-with-nasa-esa-475422">Tensions in ISS: Russia announces that it will be ending space cooperation with NASA, ESA</a>

In the initial concept, the Roscosmos and Russian military-run Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan would have served as the launch location for the Rosalind Franklin rover. Additionally, a lander called&nbsp;Kazachok,&nbsp;created by the Russians was meant to land with Rosalind Franklin and launch Rosalind.

As per the ESA chief&nbsp;"new insights on the way forward with other partners" will be provided during a media briefing on 20 July.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/kalina-russias-advanced-laser-system-that-can-blind-enemy-satellites-496528">Kalina: Russia's advanced laser system that can blind enemy satellites</a>

This decision will of course have significant effects on the mission.&nbsp;

Rosalind Franklin was supposed to launch in September, but mission team members have said that a launch before 2028 is now doubtful due to the requirement to locate a new rocket and a new landing platform.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Russian aggression on Ukraine has laid waste to many things: towns, lives, cultural heritages and a scientific inquiry. The European Space Agency has "officially" ended its association with Russia for a life-hunting Mars rover mission.

The Russian aggression on Ukraine has laid waste to many things: towns, lives, cultural heritages and a scientific inquiry. The European Space Agency has "officially" ended its association with Russia for a life-hunting Mars rover mission. As per Space.com, the mission that was scheduled to launch in the latter part of this decade, in the late 2020s was initially suspended over Russia's invasion of its neighbour. As part of a larger project, dubbed ExoMars, the European Space Agency (ESA) had been developing the alien life-seeking mission in collaboration with its Russian equivalent, Roscosmos. However, now ESA chief Josef Aschbacher has announced that this suspension will be upgraded to a termination. Watch | European Space Agency suspends joint space mission with Russia Taking to Twitter, Aschbacher said, "today @ESA Council addressed the ExoMars Rover and Surface Platform mission, acknowledging that the circumstances which led to the suspension of the cooperation with Roscosmos – the war in Ukraine and the resulting sanctions – continue to prevail." He added, "As a consequence, Council mandated me to officially terminate the currently suspended cooperation with Roscosmos on the ExoMars Rover and Surface Platform mission." Also read | Tensions in ISS: Russia announces that it will be ending space cooperation with NASA, ESA In the initial concept, the Roscosmos and Russian military-run Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan would have served as the launch location for the Rosalind Franklin rover. Additionally, a lander called Kazachok, created by the Russians was meant to land with Rosalind Franklin and launch Rosalind. As per the ESA chief "new insights on the way forward with other partners" will be provided during a media briefing on 20 July. Also read | Kalina: Russia's advanced laser system that can blind enemy satellites This decision will of course have significant effects on the mission. Rosalind Franklin was supposed to launch in September, but mission team members have said that a launch before 2028 is now doubtful due to the requirement to locate a new rocket and a new landing platform. (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.

Another casualty of Russia-Ukraine war: ESA-ROSCOSMOS's Mars life-hunting mission

Mohammed Salah's 23rd-minute strike was enough to earn Liverpool a 1-0 win over a dogged Brighton and Hove Albion and give them an early top spot in the Premier League with three wins out of three.

Juergen Klopp's side made a strong start, and Brighton's Australian keeper Mathew Ryan did well to keep out a Roberto Firmino header before Trent Alexander-Arnold rattled the crossbar with a 15th-minute free kick.

The breakthrough came when James Milner robbed Yves Bissouma as Brighton tried to play the ball out from the back and a quick exchange of passes from Sadio Mane and Firmino ended with a clinical finish from Salah, last season's top scorer with 32 league goals.

Brighton, who beat Manchester United last week, defended with determination, frustrating Liverpool but creating little until a Pascal Gross header in the 88th minute forced a good save out Liverpool keeper Alisson Becker.

Mohammed Salah's 23rd-minute strike was enough to earn Liverpool a 1-0 win over a dogged Brighton and Hove Albion and give them an early top spot in the Premier League with three wins out of three.

Mohammed Salah's 23rd-minute strike was enough to earn Liverpool a 1-0 win over a dogged Brighton and Hove Albion and give them an early top spot in the Premier League with three wins out of three. Juergen Klopp's side made a strong start, and Brighton's Australian keeper Mathew Ryan did well to keep out a Roberto Firmino header before Trent Alexander-Arnold rattled the crossbar with a 15th-minute free kick. The breakthrough came when James Milner robbed Yves Bissouma as Brighton tried to play the ball out from the back and a quick exchange of passes from Sadio Mane and Firmino ended with a clinical finish from Salah, last season's top scorer with 32 league goals. Brighton, who beat Manchester United last week, defended with determination, frustrating Liverpool but creating little until a Pascal Gross header in the 88th minute forced a good save out Liverpool keeper Alisson Becker.

After seeing parallels in Russia, China, Ukrainian students seeking new lives in Taiwan

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has refuted claims that Russia's airstrikes on his country had been "paused". The war-torn country's President in his nightly address on Sunday said that there was no let-up in air strikes from the aggressor Russia, on Ukraine. His statement comes after officials in Ukraine's Donetsk region, said that at least fifteen people have been killed and an additional two dozen were feared to be trapped under the rubble after Russian Uragan rockets hit a five-storey apartment block. As per Zelensky the death toll from the attack in the Donetsk town of Chasiv Yar was likely to rise.

Watch |&nbsp;Russian strike kills 15 in East Ukraine as Russian rocket hits housing block

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"Two residential high-rise buildings were destroyed. Dozens of people are under the rubble. Six were saved. There are 15 names in the list of the dead and, unfortunately, this is not the final number," Zelensky said.

"34 airstrikes by Russian aviation in the past 24 hours, in one past day, is an answer to all those who invented this "pause"," he said.

The Chasiv Yar apartment complex was the target of a strike on Saturday night, July 10, according to Donetsk Governor Pavlo Kyrylenko.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-at-least-15-dead-as-russian-rockets-hit-ukraine-apartment-block-496194" hreflang="en">Russia-Ukraine war: At least 15 dead, several feared trapped as Russian rockets hit apartment block in Ukraine</a>

On Sunday afternoon, the local rescue agency reported 15 fatalities, adding that 24 more people might still be trapped beneath the rubble.

Zelensky said that&nbsp; "The Ukrainian army is holding on, holding firm," adding "But, of course, a lot still needs to be done so that Russian losses become such that there will really be a pause."

As per a Reuters report, Ukraine on Sunday also&nbsp;reported clashes with Russian forces on fronts in the east and south. Moscow, meanwhile, claimed that its forces had attacked hangars used by the Ukrainian army to store M777 howitzers made in the United States close to Kostyantynivka in the Donetsk region.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has refuted claims that Russia's airstrikes on his country had been "paused". The war-torn country's President in his nightly address on Sunday said that there was no let-up in air strikes from the aggressor Russia, on Ukraine.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has refuted claims that Russia's airstrikes on his country had been "paused". The war-torn country's President in his nightly address on Sunday said that there was no let-up in air strikes from the aggressor Russia, on Ukraine. His statement comes after officials in Ukraine's Donetsk region, said that at least fifteen people have been killed and an additional two dozen were feared to be trapped under the rubble after Russian Uragan rockets hit a five-storey apartment block. As per Zelensky the death toll from the attack in the Donetsk town of Chasiv Yar was likely to rise. Watch | Russian strike kills 15 in East Ukraine as Russian rocket hits housing block "Two residential high-rise buildings were destroyed. Dozens of people are under the rubble. Six were saved. There are 15 names in the list of the dead and, unfortunately, this is not the final number," Zelensky said. "34 airstrikes by Russian aviation in the past 24 hours, in one past day, is an answer to all those who invented this "pause"," he said. The Chasiv Yar apartment complex was the target of a strike on Saturday night, July 10, according to Donetsk Governor Pavlo Kyrylenko. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: At least 15 dead, several feared trapped as Russian rockets hit apartment block in Ukraine On Sunday afternoon, the local rescue agency reported 15 fatalities, adding that 24 more people might still be trapped beneath the rubble. Zelensky said that "The Ukrainian army is holding on, holding firm," adding "But, of course, a lot still needs to be done so that Russian losses become such that there will really be a pause." As per a Reuters report, Ukraine on Sunday also reported clashes with Russian forces on fronts in the east and south. Moscow, meanwhile, claimed that its forces had attacked hangars used by the Ukrainian army to store M777 howitzers made in the United States close to Kostyantynivka in the Donetsk region. (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-Ukraine war: '34 airstrikes in past 24 hours', Zelensky says there is no 'pause' in Moscow's attacks

Even as the Russian aggression on Ukraine, which has resulted in hundreds of deaths, millions of displaced people, and ruined cities and houses continues after five months, Moscow's former president commented that sanctions, and attempts made by the West to punish a nuclear power like Russia, could endanger humanity. Taking to Telegram, on Wednesday, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, now deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council, said "The idea of punishing a country that has one of the largest nuclear potentials is absurd. And potentially poses a threat to the existence of humanity."

Watch |&nbsp;Russia's invasion displace millions; a biologist by profession holds key to 19 houses

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The February 24th invasion of Ukraine has triggered some serious sanctions against Russia. The event has also led to the souring of relations between Moscow and the West. As per Reuters, this is the most serious crisis in relations since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis when it was believed that a nuclear war was imminent.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sloviansk-mayor-urges-residents-to-flee-ukrainian-city-amid-russian-shelling-494805" hreflang="en">Sloviansk mayor urges residents to flee Ukrainian city amid Russian shelling</a>

Now, history seems to be repeating itself. The threat of a nuclear attack remains imminent. According to the Federation of American Scientists, Russia and the United States jointly hold around 4,000 nuclear warheads, controlling nearly 90 per cent of the world's total.

As per US President Joe Biden and much of the West, Russian President Vladimir Putin is a war criminal. The Russian military, according to Ukraine and its Western supporters, has committed war crimes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-parliament-gives-initial-approval-to-laws-for-a-war-economy-494678" hreflang="en">Russian parliament gives initial approval to laws for a war economy</a>

However, Medvedev painted the United States as an empire that has shed blood all over the globe. He made references to the massacre of Native Americans, nuclear assaults on Japan, and a number of wars ranging from Vietnam to Afghanistan.

It would be pointless and maybe catastrophic to try and use courts or tribunals to look into Russia's conduct in Ukraine, Medvedev warned.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Even as the Russian aggression on Ukraine, which has resulted in hundreds of deaths, millions of displaced people, and ruined cities and houses continues after five months, Moscow's former president commented that sanctions, and attempts made by the West to punish a nuclear power like Russia, could endanger humanity.

Even as the Russian aggression on Ukraine, which has resulted in hundreds of deaths, millions of displaced people, and ruined cities and houses continues after five months, Moscow's former president commented that sanctions, and attempts made by the West to punish a nuclear power like Russia, could endanger humanity. Taking to Telegram, on Wednesday, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, now deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council, said "The idea of punishing a country that has one of the largest nuclear potentials is absurd. And potentially poses a threat to the existence of humanity." Watch | Russia's invasion displace millions; a biologist by profession holds key to 19 houses The February 24th invasion of Ukraine has triggered some serious sanctions against Russia. The event has also led to the souring of relations between Moscow and the West. As per Reuters, this is the most serious crisis in relations since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis when it was believed that a nuclear war was imminent. Also read | Sloviansk mayor urges residents to flee Ukrainian city amid Russian shelling Now, history seems to be repeating itself. The threat of a nuclear attack remains imminent. According to the Federation of American Scientists, Russia and the United States jointly hold around 4,000 nuclear warheads, controlling nearly 90 per cent of the world's total. As per US President Joe Biden and much of the West, Russian President Vladimir Putin is a war criminal. The Russian military, according to Ukraine and its Western supporters, has committed war crimes. Also read | Russian parliament gives initial approval to laws for a war economy However, Medvedev painted the United States as an empire that has shed blood all over the globe. He made references to the massacre of Native Americans, nuclear assaults on Japan, and a number of wars ranging from Vietnam to Afghanistan. It would be pointless and maybe catastrophic to try and use courts or tribunals to look into Russia's conduct in Ukraine, Medvedev warned. (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.

Even as Ukraine war leaves thousand dead, Russia warns humanity at risk if West seeks to punish it

You must be aware of the China Taiwan issue; it’s happening since 1949. On October 1 of last year, when China observed its National Day to commemorate the founding of the People's Republic of China, tensions between the two countries resumed. Over 100 fighter jets from China flew into Taiwan's air defence identification zone during the 72nd-anniversary festivities, rattling Taiwanese emotions and raising concerns about a possible military invasion of the island. We must first see the cause of the China and Taiwan split to fully understand this matter. After World War II, there was combat in mainland China between nationalist government troops and the Chinese Communist Party, which led to the division between the two. In 1949, the communists prevailed, and Mao Zedong seized power in Beijing.&nbsp;The Kuomintang, a nationalist party, withdrew to neighbouring Taiwan during this time. Since then, the Kuomintang has been one of Taiwan's leading political parties and has ruled the island for a sizable portion of its history. China puts a lot of diplomatic pressure on other nations to avoid any actions that can be seen as recognition of Taiwan. Only 13 nations currently recognise Taiwan as a sovereign state.

Taiwan's authorities assert that their country is an independent state, but China regards Taiwan as a part of its territory and is desperate to seize control of it by force. Now here the question is why&nbsp;does Taiwan matter to China? Apart from the territorial integrity the reason China wants Taiwan is because of its economic capabilities and western influence.&nbsp;&nbsp;You will observe the same thing in Ukraine as well; why do you think Russia attacked Ukraine? Because Russia doesn't want any military bases close to its borders, it has repeatedly urged Ukraine not to join NATO or any other western allies. Taiwan experiences a similar issue. China does not want Taiwan to be the next Ukraine.&nbsp;because China is aware that American and NATO forces intend to erect military infrastructure in Taiwan and China's foreign policy will be directly threatened by it. We should also keep in mind that China is quite savvy and is aware that whatever sanctions Russia is dealing with could apply to China in the future. Additionally, Taiwan's electronic industry draws the largest proportion of its foreign investment. China and Taiwan's economies are highly interdependent, with Taiwan's semiconductor manufacturing industry being the largest contract chip manufacturer in the world and Asia's most valuable listed company at 600 billion dollars. With an export value of 515 billion dollars from January 2017 to January 2022, China is Taiwan's largest export partner, more than twice as much as the next-largest partner, the United States. More chips from Taiwan are imported into China than crude oil. This means that China is heavily dependent on Taiwan for the essential components of its manufacturing and electrical industries.

Anyway, we know that Taiwan recognizes itself as a sovereign nation. Taiwan maintains diplomatic ties with 15 nations, including major powers including the US, Australia, Canada, the EU, Japan, and New Zealand. Consequently, Taiwan's sovereignty is essentially supported by all western nations. Additionally, Taiwan has full membership in World Trade Organization, the Asian Development Bank, and other intergovernmental organizations. So, if you look at Taiwan of course they have full right to be a sovereign country, I am not denying that. However, if you take a step back and look at it from a more traditional perspective, you'll find that the western nations do not support Taiwan because they favour democracy or because they have comparable democratic values. Since the west does a lot of business with China, in recent years it has begun to forge closer ties with Taiwan to keep China in check and prevent it from straying too far from the norm. And if you recall, in 2018—Trump's first year in office—China and the United States were engaged in a continuing economic struggle known as the "China-US trade war." Additionally, both nations had imposed sanctions on one another. As a result of the US-China trade war and the subsequent COVID-19 outbreak, China’s name around the world began to decline. Many Taiwanese and foreign companies that were based in mainland China, started relocating back to Taiwan because of this if you see Taiwan became an indirect beneficiary of the US-China trade war.

So, the western countries do not want to let go of the leverage on China and the leverage is Taiwan. Because of this, the United States, Australia, and Japan expressed alarm and disapproval when Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare signed the security arrangement with China and extended his country's allegiance to Beijing rather than Taiwan. 

Despite US President Joe Biden's comments that he would be willing to use force to defend Taiwan, White House officials maintain that the US has not altered its policy. United States President Joe Biden suggested that any attempt by China to invade Taiwan will result in American military action during the Quad Summit in Tokyo on May 23, 2022. At the G-7 summit in Madrid, the UK's foreign secretary, Lizz Truss, recently warned China, saying, "I do think that with China extending its influence through economic coercion and building a capable military, there is a real risk that they draw the wrong idea, which results in a catastrophic miscalculation like invading Taiwan, and that is precisely what we saw in case of Ukraine, a strategic miscalculation by Putin.&nbsp;Invoking Taiwan as an example, Truss argued that NATO needed to have a global perspective that included democracies outside of its membership.&nbsp;To protect the Pacific, she said, "we need to anticipate dangers in the Indo-Pacific, working with friends like Japan and Australia." "We must ensure that democracies like Taiwan can defend themselves." "We must ensure the self-defence of democracies like Taiwan."China dwarfs Britain, the sixth-largest economy in the world, both economically and militarily, but London still hopes to influence Beijing to abide by the rules of a new, more dynamic international order through the use of soft power and strategic partnerships.

Along with the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, which brought an end to the Cold War, China's rapid economic and military development over the previous 40 years is seen as one of the most important geopolitical developments in recent times. Taiwan views the Ukraine scenario as a lesson in how to cope with China's military adventurism even though a Chinese invasion of Taiwan is not near. If recent actions by the US and Japan are any indication, both nations are stepping up their efforts to support Taiwan's resolve to counter the Chinese security threat. This is a natural move on the part of the US and Japan, and it provides a platform for other democracies and like-minded nations to contribute to preventing geopolitical instability in the Indo-Pacific. The effects of the Russia-Ukraine conflict would be felt well beyond the Western world, notwithstanding how some foreign policy experts portray a controlled West-only situation. Due to a protracted border dispute and ongoing standoffs with China, India has maintained a low profile with Taiwan. There has been a widespread belief that any attempt to engage Taiwan will provoke a fierce response from China. Due to their unresolved border conflict and China's frequent territorial incursions into Indian territory, China represents a serious threat to India. It would be appropriate for India to quit paying attention to China at the expense of engaging Taiwan after the Galwan skirmishes, which were preceded by decades of Chinese duplicity and attempts to halt India's development.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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You must be aware of the China Taiwan issue; it’s happening since 1949. On October 1 of last year, when China observed its National Day to commemorate the founding of the People's Republic of China, tensions between the two countries resumed.

You must be aware of the China Taiwan issue; it’s happening since 1949. On October 1 of last year, when China observed its National Day to commemorate the founding of the People's Republic of China, tensions between the two countries resumed. Over 100 fighter jets from China flew into Taiwan's air defence identification zone during the 72nd-anniversary festivities, rattling Taiwanese emotions and raising concerns about a possible military invasion of the island. We must first see the cause of the China and Taiwan split to fully understand this matter. After World War II, there was combat in mainland China between nationalist government troops and the Chinese Communist Party, which led to the division between the two. In 1949, the communists prevailed, and Mao Zedong seized power in Beijing. The Kuomintang, a nationalist party, withdrew to neighbouring Taiwan during this time. Since then, the Kuomintang has been one of Taiwan's leading political parties and has ruled the island for a sizable portion of its history. China puts a lot of diplomatic pressure on other nations to avoid any actions that can be seen as recognition of Taiwan. Only 13 nations currently recognise Taiwan as a sovereign state. Taiwan's authorities assert that their country is an independent state, but China regards Taiwan as a part of its territory and is desperate to seize control of it by force. Now here the question is why does Taiwan matter to China? Apart from the territorial integrity the reason China wants Taiwan is because of its economic capabilities and western influence. You will observe the same thing in Ukraine as well; why do you think Russia attacked Ukraine? Because Russia doesn't want any military bases close to its borders, it has repeatedly urged Ukraine not to join NATO or any other western allies. Taiwan experiences a similar issue. China does not want Taiwan to be the next Ukraine. because China is aware that American and NATO forces intend to erect military infrastructure in Taiwan and China's foreign policy will be directly threatened by it. We should also keep in mind that China is quite savvy and is aware that whatever sanctions Russia is dealing with could apply to China in the future. Additionally, Taiwan's electronic industry draws the largest proportion of its foreign investment. China and Taiwan's economies are highly interdependent, with Taiwan's semiconductor manufacturing industry being the largest contract chip manufacturer in the world and Asia's most valuable listed company at 600 billion dollars. With an export value of 515 billion dollars from January 2017 to January 2022, China is Taiwan's largest export partner, more than twice as much as the next-largest partner, the United States. More chips from Taiwan are imported into China than crude oil. This means that China is heavily dependent on Taiwan for the essential components of its manufacturing and electrical industries. Anyway, we know that Taiwan recognizes itself as a sovereign nation. Taiwan maintains diplomatic ties with 15 nations, including major powers including the US, Australia, Canada, the EU, Japan, and New Zealand. Consequently, Taiwan's sovereignty is essentially supported by all western nations. Additionally, Taiwan has full membership in World Trade Organization, the Asian Development Bank, and other intergovernmental organizations. So, if you look at Taiwan of course they have full right to be a sovereign country, I am not denying that. However, if you take a step back and look at it from a more traditional perspective, you'll find that the western nations do not support Taiwan because they favour democracy or because they have comparable democratic values. Since the west does a lot of business with China, in recent years it has begun to forge closer ties with Taiwan to keep China in check and prevent it from straying too far from the norm. And if you recall, in 2018—Trump's first year in office—China and the United States were engaged in a continuing economic struggle known as the "China-US trade war." Additionally, both nations had imposed sanctions on one another. As a result of the US-China trade war and the subsequent COVID-19 outbreak, China’s name around the world began to decline. Many Taiwanese and foreign companies that were based in mainland China, started relocating back to Taiwan because of this if you see Taiwan became an indirect beneficiary of the US-China trade war. So, the western countries do not want to let go of the leverage on China and the leverage is Taiwan. Because of this, the United States, Australia, and Japan expressed alarm and disapproval when Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare signed the security arrangement with China and extended his country's allegiance to Beijing rather than Taiwan. Despite US President Joe Biden's comments that he would be willing to use force to defend Taiwan, White House officials maintain that the US has not altered its policy. United States President Joe Biden suggested that any attempt by China to invade Taiwan will result in American military action during the Quad Summit in Tokyo on May 23, 2022. At the G-7 summit in Madrid, the UK's foreign secretary, Lizz Truss, recently warned China, saying, "I do think that with China extending its influence through economic coercion and building a capable military, there is a real risk that they draw the wrong idea, which results in a catastrophic miscalculation like invading Taiwan, and that is precisely what we saw in case of Ukraine, a strategic miscalculation by Putin. Invoking Taiwan as an example, Truss argued that NATO needed to have a global perspective that included democracies outside of its membership. To protect the Pacific, she said, "we need to anticipate dangers in the Indo-Pacific, working with friends like Japan and Australia." "We must ensure that democracies like Taiwan can defend themselves." "We must ensure the self-defence of democracies like Taiwan."China dwarfs Britain, the sixth-largest economy in the world, both economically and militarily, but London still hopes to influence Beijing to abide by the rules of a new, more dynamic international order through the use of soft power and strategic partnerships. Along with the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, which brought an end to the Cold War, China's rapid economic and military development over the previous 40 years is seen as one of the most important geopolitical developments in recent times. Taiwan views the Ukraine scenario as a lesson in how to cope with China's military adventurism even though a Chinese invasion of Taiwan is not near. If recent actions by the US and Japan are any indication, both nations are stepping up their efforts to support Taiwan's resolve to counter the Chinese security threat. This is a natural move on the part of the US and Japan, and it provides a platform for other democracies and like-minded nations to contribute to preventing geopolitical instability in the Indo-Pacific. The effects of the Russia-Ukraine conflict would be felt well beyond the Western world, notwithstanding how some foreign policy experts portray a controlled West-only situation. Due to a protracted border dispute and ongoing standoffs with China, India has maintained a low profile with Taiwan. There has been a widespread belief that any attempt to engage Taiwan will provoke a fierce response from China. Due to their unresolved border conflict and China's frequent territorial incursions into Indian territory, China represents a serious threat to India. It would be appropriate for India to quit paying attention to China at the expense of engaging Taiwan after the Galwan skirmishes, which were preceded by decades of Chinese duplicity and attempts to halt India's development. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

China-Taiwan conflict turning into another Russia-Ukraine situation?

'The will to power exists, but it can be tamed and be guided by rationality and principles of moral duty'. 

Where the world is facing some serious consequences of the war between Russia and Ukraine; on the other side of the picture world is suffering from catastrophic hunger which is a threat to the wider section of society not only to the deprived sanction of the society but for those who like to see the wholesome grain on their breakfast table, which doesn't create a threat to the malnourishment but to the hunger death too, basically for the African countries like Sudan, South Sudan, Mali, Tunisia, Madagascar, and sub-Saharan Africa and West African countries too. Well but no one thinking about stopping the unforeseen conditions of the ongoing war which could be a long sprint for both the nation as no sign of stopping the war as said by the NATO chief, the reason behind this could be that Russia never declared it as a full-fledged war but instead of that Russian administration said it as a Special Military Operation, which can be of a long run like America did in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Well, the situation is not only grim for African countries but for the European countries too who are dependent on Russia's oil and gas and wheat for too as Russia and Ukraine account for 30 per cent&nbsp;of the world's wheat production and supplies to Europe and some of the Asian countries like Bangladesh and central Asian countries who used to be the part of integrated Soviet Union before 1991. If we talk specifically about Ukraine, then under the United Nations World Food Programme, Ukraine supplies 50 per cent of wheat to the African nation viz. Tunisia, Somalia, Mali, etc which&nbsp;malnourished countries where more than 40-45 per cent&nbsp;of the population either malnourished or undernourished leaving them no option just to rely on only one of the sessions food in a day. According to United Nations&nbsp;Conference On Trade and Development report says the 25 African nations including many of the least developed countries import more than one-third of their wheat from Ukraine and Russia.&nbsp;

A report from World Economic Forum on global food crisis about 180 million people across the 40 countries will have to face dire&nbsp;consequences of inescapable food insecurity, which can also lead to malnutrition, mass hunger, and famine viz. grimmer in African countries who are part if their dependency on global import of food grains. If we could turn to the Russian side then you could find the affection of power ,where Russia blocked the Black sea area on the southern side of Ukraine where Mariupole port been a important dock to export the grains to the nations and chain of landmines spread across the coast of Black sea from Mariupole side leaving no option for the Ukrainian farmer to store their wheat and unnecessarily in their storage house and seeing them rotten.&nbsp;

Let's give a look to ethical side of the groaning situation. European union hurting everyday as EU imports 40% of its gas supply from Russia through Nord Stream 1, while stopping the further process of laying the Nord Stream 2 to import more gas from Russia now seems burdening the financial discourse of the EU , while Russia threatened that may be last of this year ,they will cut 2/3rd of the gas supply to the European Union ,which will leave EU in complete despair. Although European Union said that from August of this year thry will cut the Russian coal import and within 6 months most of the oil supply from Russia ,as recently EU pact a deal with Israel and Egypt to import gas supply to further down the shooting price of gases. While on the other side of this childish activities inflation rises daily ,global crises of oil and gases , threat to food security but no has a word to say abouy to stop the war to provide relief to the scarced humans.&nbsp;

Everyone directly or indirectly supporting the war , Americans fueling the fire by providing the arms to Ukraine by passing bills and basically American's seen a well benefit in between as Russia and Ukraine locked by providing the food to the EU and most of the African countries , Americans are pursuing the EU members to buy their wheat viz. becomes costlier due to long route from USA to EU. Vladimir Putin recently made an statement saying that , they can think of food export to cut short the global food crises ,only if USA and EU lift sanctions from them. While Russian oil export firm Gazprom earning daily benefit by finding new consumer like India as India replaced Saudi Arabia and becomes second oil importing nation and raised import from marely 2&nbsp;to 18 per cent,&nbsp;making India also a benefit holder of this. If things goes on like this without thinking of millions of people who are relying on the food and on energy resources of this nation the conspirators might get benefited but who's gonna left apart can't be answered.&nbsp;

This will also collapse the phased development in many of the countries that took a long run to come at this stage, surely facing the threat of their fiscal deficit cause not everyone has holding capacity in currencies. And what about the United Nations' sustainable development goals, which include poverty, hunger, health, and global cooperation?&nbsp;The human development index of many of the least developed countries or developing countries will come down by leaving the larger section of the society vulnerable to many of humanitarian crisis. Time for the nations to come out of the disrupted mindset of trade benefits than to morality and rationality.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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'The will to power exists, but it can be tamed and be guided by rationality and principles of moral duty'. Where the world is facing some serious consequences of the war between Russia and Ukraine; on the other side of the picture world is suffering from catastrophic hunger which is a threat to the wider section of society not only to the deprived sanction of the society but for those who like to see the wholesome grain on their breakfast table, which doesn't create a threat to the malnourishment but to the hunger death too, basically for the African countries like Sudan, South Sudan, Mali, Tunisia, Madagascar, and sub-Saharan Africa and West African countries too.

'The will to power exists, but it can be tamed and be guided by rationality and principles of moral duty'. Where the world is facing some serious consequences of the war between Russia and Ukraine; on the other side of the picture world is suffering from catastrophic hunger which is a threat to the wider section of society not only to the deprived sanction of the society but for those who like to see the wholesome grain on their breakfast table, which doesn't create a threat to the malnourishment but to the hunger death too, basically for the African countries like Sudan, South Sudan, Mali, Tunisia, Madagascar, and sub-Saharan Africa and West African countries too. Well but no one thinking about stopping the unforeseen conditions of the ongoing war which could be a long sprint for both the nation as no sign of stopping the war as said by the NATO chief, the reason behind this could be that Russia never declared it as a full-fledged war but instead of that Russian administration said it as a Special Military Operation, which can be of a long run like America did in Afghanistan. Well, the situation is not only grim for African countries but for the European countries too who are dependent on Russia's oil and gas and wheat for too as Russia and Ukraine account for 30 per cent of the world's wheat production and supplies to Europe and some of the Asian countries like Bangladesh and central Asian countries who used to be the part of integrated Soviet Union before 1991. If we talk specifically about Ukraine, then under the United Nations World Food Programme, Ukraine supplies 50 per cent of wheat to the African nation viz. Tunisia, Somalia, Mali, etc which malnourished countries where more than 40-45 per cent of the population either malnourished or undernourished leaving them no option just to rely on only one of the sessions food in a day. According to United Nations Conference On Trade and Development report says the 25 African nations including many of the least developed countries import more than one-third of their wheat from Ukraine and Russia. A report from World Economic Forum on global food crisis about 180 million people across the 40 countries will have to face dire consequences of inescapable food insecurity, which can also lead to malnutrition, mass hunger, and famine viz. grimmer in African countries who are part if their dependency on global import of food grains. If we could turn to the Russian side then you could find the affection of power ,where Russia blocked the Black sea area on the southern side of Ukraine where Mariupole port been a important dock to export the grains to the nations and chain of landmines spread across the coast of Black sea from Mariupole side leaving no option for the Ukrainian farmer to store their wheat and unnecessarily in their storage house and seeing them rotten. Let's give a look to ethical side of the groaning situation. European union hurting everyday as EU imports 40% of its gas supply from Russia through Nord Stream 1, while stopping the further process of laying the Nord Stream 2 to import more gas from Russia now seems burdening the financial discourse of the EU , while Russia threatened that may be last of this year ,they will cut 2/3rd of the gas supply to the European Union ,which will leave EU in complete despair. Although European Union said that from August of this year thry will cut the Russian coal import and within 6 months most of the oil supply from Russia ,as recently EU pact a deal with Israel and Egypt to import gas supply to further down the shooting price of gases. While on the other side of this childish activities inflation rises daily ,global crises of oil and gases , threat to food security but no has a word to say abouy to stop the war to provide relief to the scarced humans. Everyone directly or indirectly supporting the war , Americans fueling the fire by providing the arms to Ukraine by passing bills and basically American's seen a well benefit in between as Russia and Ukraine locked by providing the food to the EU and most of the African countries , Americans are pursuing the EU members to buy their wheat viz. becomes costlier due to long route from USA to EU. Vladimir Putin recently made an statement saying that , they can think of food export to cut short the global food crises ,only if USA and EU lift sanctions from them. While Russian oil export firm Gazprom earning daily benefit by finding new consumer like India as India replaced Saudi Arabia and becomes second oil importing nation and raised import from marely 2 to 18 per cent, making India also a benefit holder of this. If things goes on like this without thinking of millions of people who are relying on the food and on energy resources of this nation the conspirators might get benefited but who's gonna left apart can't be answered. This will also collapse the phased development in many of the countries that took a long run to come at this stage, surely facing the threat of their fiscal deficit cause not everyone has holding capacity in currencies. And what about the United Nations' sustainable development goals, which include poverty, hunger, health, and global cooperation? The human development index of many of the least developed countries or developing countries will come down by leaving the larger section of the society vulnerable to many of humanitarian crisis. Time for the nations to come out of the disrupted mindset of trade benefits than to morality and rationality. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Bone of contention : Rationality dies,  benefit takes over

On Monday, sanctions-hit Russia acknowledged that two of its debt payments had not reached the creditors. Nonetheless, the nation denied that this amounted to default on a loan. In a statement, the Russian finance ministry claimed that international settlement and clearing systems had "received funds in full in advance," but that "the actions of third parties" prevented the payments from reaching the intended beneficiaries.&nbsp;Following reports of the alleged default, the Kremlin too insisted that there were "no grounds" to say that Moscow had defaulted on its foreign-currency sovereign debt. This comes as the West hammers Russia with sanctions over its operation in Ukraine.

Talking to reporters after a key payment deadline's expiry, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that "there are no grounds to call this situation a default."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Russia could default on its debt within days

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He asserted that the loan was settled by Russia in May, calling the "claims of default" absolutely wrong.

For the first time in more than a century, according to a story by Bloomberg News published earlier on Monday, Russia 'defaulted' around $100 million in interest payments that were due on Sunday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/whats-the-impact-of-a-russian-debt-default-492137">What’s the impact of a Russian debt default?</a>

Russian officials claim that the West is attempting to push Moscow into a false default, and finance minister Anton Siluanov has even called the whole thing a "farce."

Moscow has been largely cut off from the global financial system as a result of punitive Western sanctions, making it challenging for Moscow to pay its debts.&nbsp;

The last time Russia missed a payment on a foreign currency loan was in 1918, when Vladimir Lenin, the leader of the Bolshevik revolution, refused to acknowledge the debts of the overthrown tsar's government.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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On Monday, sanctions-hit Russia acknowledged that two of its debt payments had not reached the creditors. Nonetheless, the nation denied that this amounted to default on a loan.

On Monday, sanctions-hit Russia acknowledged that two of its debt payments had not reached the creditors. Nonetheless, the nation denied that this amounted to default on a loan. In a statement, the Russian finance ministry claimed that international settlement and clearing systems had "received funds in full in advance," but that "the actions of third parties" prevented the payments from reaching the intended beneficiaries. Following reports of the alleged default, the Kremlin too insisted that there were "no grounds" to say that Moscow had defaulted on its foreign-currency sovereign debt. This comes as the West hammers Russia with sanctions over its operation in Ukraine. Talking to reporters after a key payment deadline's expiry, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that "there are no grounds to call this situation a default." Watch | Gravitas: Russia could default on its debt within days He asserted that the loan was settled by Russia in May, calling the "claims of default" absolutely wrong. For the first time in more than a century, according to a story by Bloomberg News published earlier on Monday, Russia 'defaulted' around $100 million in interest payments that were due on Sunday. Also read | What’s the impact of a Russian debt default? Russian officials claim that the West is attempting to push Moscow into a false default, and finance minister Anton Siluanov has even called the whole thing a "farce." Moscow has been largely cut off from the global financial system as a result of punitive Western sanctions, making it challenging for Moscow to pay its debts. The last time Russia missed a payment on a foreign currency loan was in 1918, when Vladimir Lenin, the leader of the Bolshevik revolution, refused to acknowledge the debts of the overthrown tsar's government. (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.

Sanctions-hit Russia calls reports of loan default a 'farce'

After weeks of fighting over the key eastern city, Ukraine's Severodonetsk is now "fully occupied" by the Russian army said Oleksandr Striuk, the city's mayor on Saturday (June 25). This is the biggest setback borne by Ukraine in the past&nbsp;month. In order to better defend the neighbouring city of Lysychansk, the Ukrainian army announced on Friday that it would withdraw its troops from the city, which has some 100,000 residents.&nbsp;"The city has been fully occupied by the Russians." Struik said that the several people hiding from Russian shelling in the Azot chemical plant have now begun to evacuate the site.&nbsp;As per him, these people will need medical and psychological support.&nbsp;

"These people have spent almost three months of their lives in basements, shelters. That's tough emotionally and physically."

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine conflict: Russia aims to capture Severodonetsk &amp; Lysychansk

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Separatists who supported Moscow claimed that Russian and pro-Russian soldiers had seized the Azot plant and "evacuated" more than 800 civilians who were taking refuge there.

In a Telegram message, separatist official Andrei Marochko announced that the forces had "taken full control of the Azot plant Industrial Zone."

Around 800 civilians who had sought safety in the facility amid weeks of conflict, according to Ivan Filiponenko, another separatist official, had been "evacuated."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-months-into-the-russian-aggression-ukraine-retreats-from-key-embattled-city-of-sievierodonetsk-491358">Four months into the Russian aggression, Ukraine retreats from key embattled city of Sievierodonetsk</a>

By seizing Lysychansk as well, the Russians would effectively gain control of the larger Lugansk region and be able to advance deeper into the larger Donbas.

Street-by-street combat had been going on in Sievierodonetsk for a month, with Russia steadily capturing more territory. Some of the most intense battles of the war have taken place in the city.&nbsp;Since conquering the port of Mariupol last month, Russia's biggest win has been the fall of Sievierodonetsk, a city that was once home to more than 100,000 people but is now a wasteland.

As Sievierodonetsk falls, only Lysychansk, its sister city on the western bank of the Siverskyi Donets River, would remain in Ukrainian hands.

(With inputs from agencies)

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After weeks of fighting over the key eastern city, Ukraine's Severodonetsk is now "fully occupied" by the Russian army said Oleksandr Striuk, the city's mayor on Saturday (June 25).

After weeks of fighting over the key eastern city, Ukraine's Severodonetsk is now "fully occupied" by the Russian army said Oleksandr Striuk, the city's mayor on Saturday (June 25). This is the biggest setback borne by Ukraine in the past month. In order to better defend the neighbouring city of Lysychansk, the Ukrainian army announced on Friday that it would withdraw its troops from the city, which has some 100,000 residents. "The city has been fully occupied by the Russians." Struik said that the several people hiding from Russian shelling in the Azot chemical plant have now begun to evacuate the site. As per him, these people will need medical and psychological support. "These people have spent almost three months of their lives in basements, shelters. That's tough emotionally and physically." Watch | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Russia aims to capture Severodonetsk & Lysychansk Separatists who supported Moscow claimed that Russian and pro-Russian soldiers had seized the Azot plant and "evacuated" more than 800 civilians who were taking refuge there. In a Telegram message, separatist official Andrei Marochko announced that the forces had "taken full control of the Azot plant Industrial Zone." Around 800 civilians who had sought safety in the facility amid weeks of conflict, according to Ivan Filiponenko, another separatist official, had been "evacuated." Also read | Four months into the Russian aggression, Ukraine retreats from key embattled city of Sievierodonetsk By seizing Lysychansk as well, the Russians would effectively gain control of the larger Lugansk region and be able to advance deeper into the larger Donbas. Street-by-street combat had been going on in Sievierodonetsk for a month, with Russia steadily capturing more territory. Some of the most intense battles of the war have taken place in the city. Since conquering the port of Mariupol last month, Russia's biggest win has been the fall of Sievierodonetsk, a city that was once home to more than 100,000 people but is now a wasteland. As Sievierodonetsk falls, only Lysychansk, its sister city on the western bank of the Siverskyi Donets River, would remain in Ukrainian hands. (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.

Sievierodonetsk falls to Russia after one of Ukraine war's bloodiest fights

The G7 summit kicks off in Germany this weekend and major focus will be on the Russia-Ukraine war. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be travelling to Germany for the second time in two months to take part in the G7 summit. For more on this, we are joined by WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Siddhant Sibbal.

Indian PM Modi to attend G7 Summit in Germany

In a significant setback to Ukraine's fight against the Russian invasion, Kyiv on Friday (June 24th) signalled that its troops will begin withdrawing from the city of Sievierodonetsk. Reuters reports that for weeks, the city has been the scene of heavy fighting. As per provincial governor Serhiy Gaidai, the troops have already received orders to move to new positions. However, he made no mention of their new position or if they had begun moving.&nbsp;He said that the troops "have to be withdrawn" adding that "remaining in positions smashed to pieces over many months just for the sake of staying there does not make sense."

In Sievierodonetsk, street-by-street fighting has raged for a month with Russia methodically gaining more land. The city has witnessed some of the fiercest fightings of the war.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine gets EU candidate status but getting a membership is a long process

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With Donetsk and Luhansk forming the Donbas region, the industrial hub of Ukraine, the struggle is crucial for Russia to seize control of the final Ukrainian-held patch of the province.

Only Lysychansk, Sievierodonetsk's sister city on the western bank of the Siverskyi Donets River, would stay in Ukrainian hands when Sievierodonetsk falls.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/historic-moment-eu-agrees-to-grant-candidate-status-to-ukraine-moldova-491142">'Historic moment': EU agrees to grant candidate status to Ukraine, Moldova</a>

Since Russian forces were unable to take the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv in the early phases of the war, Russia has adopted a strategy that involves fierce aerial bombardments of cities and towns followed by ground assaults.

According to analysts, the Russian soldiers are suffering significant losses and are having issues with morale, leadership, and supply. Despite this, they are weakening the Ukrainian opposition and advancing gradually in the east and south.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-a-tough-bite-to-chew-and-so-would-be-finland-says-armed-forces-chief-on-russian-invasion-490781">Ukraine a tough bite to chew and so would be Finland, says armed forces chief&nbsp;</a>

Today marks four months since the start of Vladimir Putin ordered Moscow's aggression against Ukraine. The battle has now claimed thousands of lives—both combatants and civilians—uprooted millions of people, and witnessed Russian artillery and airstrikes obliterate entire Ukrainian cities.

A global energy and food crisis has also been exacerbated by the war.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a significant setback to Ukraine's fight against the Russian invasion, Kyiv on Friday (June 24th) signalled that its troops will begin withdrawing from the city of Sievierodonetsk.

In a significant setback to Ukraine's fight against the Russian invasion, Kyiv on Friday (June 24th) signalled that its troops will begin withdrawing from the city of Sievierodonetsk. Reuters reports that for weeks, the city has been the scene of heavy fighting. As per provincial governor Serhiy Gaidai, the troops have already received orders to move to new positions. However, he made no mention of their new position or if they had begun moving. He said that the troops "have to be withdrawn" adding that "remaining in positions smashed to pieces over many months just for the sake of staying there does not make sense." In Sievierodonetsk, street-by-street fighting has raged for a month with Russia methodically gaining more land. The city has witnessed some of the fiercest fightings of the war. Watch | Ukraine gets EU candidate status but getting a membership is a long process With Donetsk and Luhansk forming the Donbas region, the industrial hub of Ukraine, the struggle is crucial for Russia to seize control of the final Ukrainian-held patch of the province. Only Lysychansk, Sievierodonetsk's sister city on the western bank of the Siverskyi Donets River, would stay in Ukrainian hands when Sievierodonetsk falls. Also read | 'Historic moment': EU agrees to grant candidate status to Ukraine, Moldova Since Russian forces were unable to take the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv in the early phases of the war, Russia has adopted a strategy that involves fierce aerial bombardments of cities and towns followed by ground assaults. According to analysts, the Russian soldiers are suffering significant losses and are having issues with morale, leadership, and supply. Despite this, they are weakening the Ukrainian opposition and advancing gradually in the east and south. Also Read | Ukraine a tough bite to chew and so would be Finland, says armed forces chief Today marks four months since the start of Vladimir Putin ordered Moscow's aggression against Ukraine. The battle has now claimed thousands of lives—both combatants and civilians—uprooted millions of people, and witnessed Russian artillery and airstrikes obliterate entire Ukrainian cities. A global energy and food crisis has also been exacerbated by the war. (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.

Four months into the Russian aggression, Ukraine retreats from key embattled city of Sievierodonetsk

The United States has justified India's invitation to the G7 Summit amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. The US said that India is invited since the agenda is diverse. The US clarified that they are not trying to splinter India off Russia.

US Justifies India's invitation to G7 Summit

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Finnish women take up weapons 'just in case' of an attack

Stocks of iodine have been flying off the shelves in Europe due to fears that it may be needed to counter the risks of thyroid cancer if Russia invades Ukraine and causes a nuclear incident.

As Russian forces seized the defunct Chernobyl nuclear site and damaged Zaporizhzhia, Europe's largest nuclear plant, France said it would send 2.5 million doses of the chemical compound to Ukraine.

The following facts about iodine will help you understand the hype around it.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-refugee-crisis-raises-other-concerns-feeling-women-minors-may-be-targetted-for-trafficking-462747" hreflang="en">Ukraine refugee crisis raises other concerns; fleeing women &amp; minors may be targetted for trafficking</a>

What is iodine?&nbsp;

The thyroid gland in the neck produces hormones that are crucial for brain development and vital bodily functions thanks to stable iodine -- potassium iodide. Since the body cannot produce iodine, it is essential to our diet.

Can iodine help in a nuclear accident?&nbsp;

In a catastrophic nuclear accident, radioactive iodine would be released into the atmosphere. Inhalation or consumption of contaminated iodine via food can increase the risks of thyroid cancer, as was observed after the Chernobyl nuclear disaster of 1986.

Iodine tablets containing stable, non-radioactive iodine prevent the thyroid gland from concentrating radioactive iodine. After becoming saturated with stable iodine, the gland can no longer capture the radioactive element, which is then flushed out of the body naturally through urine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jumping-the-gun-as-calls-for-its-expulsion-grow-russia-announces-ruxit-from-council-of-europe-462722" hreflang="en">Jumping the gun: As calls for its expulsion grow, Russia announces 'Ruxit'&nbsp;from Council of Europe</a>

Is iodine effective in all circumstances?

Taking Iodine tablets will not protect you from other forms of radiation, nor will they provide immunity from it. These tablets are not permanent cures.

Are there any specialist recommendations?&nbsp;

French Nuclear Safety Authority (ASN) notes that iodine protects only the thyroid and that the most crucial action following a nuclear accident is to take shelter in a hard building.

In addition, the tablets must be taken at specific times -- ideally, one hour before exposure to radiation and, at the latest, six to twelve hours after exposure.

Pregnant women, babies, children, and young people are especially encouraged to use these products.

"There is no point in taking iodine tablets as a prophylactic," the ASN warned. "It's pointless and it can cause undesirable effects or allergies."

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Does Putin really want to stop this war or not?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-crisis-does-putin-really-want-to-stop-this-war-or-not-462790/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

What are the possible side effects?

Too much iodine can damage the kidneys and heart and cause the thyroid to malfunction.&nbsp;

Croatian doctors warned last week against iodine consumption without proper precautions.

Are iodine pills readily available?&nbsp;

Iodine tablets must be prescribed by a physician. They are not available over the counter.

Stocks of iodine have been flying off the shelves in Europe due to fears that it may be needed to counter the risks of thyroid cancer if Russia invades Ukraine and causes a nuclear incident.

Stocks of iodine have been flying off the shelves in Europe due to fears that it may be needed to counter the risks of thyroid cancer if Russia invades Ukraine and causes a nuclear incident. As Russian forces seized the defunct Chernobyl nuclear site and damaged Zaporizhzhia, Europe's largest nuclear plant, France said it would send 2.5 million doses of the chemical compound to Ukraine. The following facts about iodine will help you understand the hype around it. Also read | Ukraine refugee crisis raises other concerns; fleeing women & minors may be targetted for trafficking What is iodine? The thyroid gland in the neck produces hormones that are crucial for brain development and vital bodily functions thanks to stable iodine -- potassium iodide. Since the body cannot produce iodine, it is essential to our diet. Can iodine help in a nuclear accident? In a catastrophic nuclear accident, radioactive iodine would be released into the atmosphere. Inhalation or consumption of contaminated iodine via food can increase the risks of thyroid cancer, as was observed after the Chernobyl nuclear disaster of 1986. Iodine tablets containing stable, non-radioactive iodine prevent the thyroid gland from concentrating radioactive iodine. After becoming saturated with stable iodine, the gland can no longer capture the radioactive element, which is then flushed out of the body naturally through urine. Also read | Jumping the gun: As calls for its expulsion grow, Russia announces 'Ruxit' from Council of Europe Is iodine effective in all circumstances? Taking Iodine tablets will not protect you from other forms of radiation, nor will they provide immunity from it. These tablets are not permanent cures. Are there any specialist recommendations? French Nuclear Safety Authority (ASN) notes that iodine protects only the thyroid and that the most crucial action following a nuclear accident is to take shelter in a hard building. In addition, the tablets must be taken at specific times -- ideally, one hour before exposure to radiation and, at the latest, six to twelve hours after exposure. Pregnant women, babies, children, and young people are especially encouraged to use these products. "There is no point in taking iodine tablets as a prophylactic," the ASN warned. "It's pointless and it can cause undesirable effects or allergies." Watch | Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Does Putin really want to stop this war or not? What are the possible side effects? Too much iodine can damage the kidneys and heart and cause the thyroid to malfunction. Croatian doctors warned last week against iodine consumption without proper precautions. Are iodine pills readily available? Iodine tablets must be prescribed by a physician. They are not available over the counter.

Explainer: Iodine tablets for nuclear risk. Why is Europe rushing to buy this tablet?

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

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

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

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

In order to secure Russian compensation for invading Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed a formal deal with the country's allies.

Such a deal would show nations planning aggressive acts that they would have to pay for their actions according to Zelensky.

In his video address, he said, "We invite partner countries to sign a multilateral agreement and create a mechanism ensuring that everybody who suffered from Russian actions can receive compensation for all losses incurred."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-russia-using-food-as-a-weapon-480850/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He added that Russia is trying to destroy as much of Ukraine's infrastructure as it can and that under such a deal, Russian funds and property in signatory nations would be confiscated.&nbsp;

Highlighting the redirection of confiscated funds and property to a special compensation fund, Zelensky said "That would be fair as Russia will feel the weight of every missile, every bomb, every shell which it has fired at us."

Describing the bombardment of Severodonetsk as "brutal and absolutely pointless", Zelensky said, "There's hell, and that's not an exaggeration."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peresvet-and-zadira-russia-unveils-new-laser-weapons-against-ukraine-war-480775" hreflang="en">'Peresvet' and ‘Zadira': Russia unveils new laser weapons against Ukraine war</a>

Marking an end to a weeks-long siege, Russia's defence ministry said the last group of Ukrainian forces holed up in Mariupol's Azovstal steelworks had surrendered.

As a part of the compensation to victims or to help in rebuilding a foreign state from war, last month Canada announced that it would change its sanctions law to allow for sanctioned and seized foreign assets to be redistributed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch WION's&nbsp;live TV here

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

In order to secure Russian compensation for invading Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed a formal deal with the country's allies. Such a deal would show nations planning aggressive acts that they would have to pay for their actions according to Zelensky.

In order to secure Russian compensation for invading Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed a formal deal with the country's allies. Such a deal would show nations planning aggressive acts that they would have to pay for their actions according to Zelensky. In his video address, he said, "We invite partner countries to sign a multilateral agreement and create a mechanism ensuring that everybody who suffered from Russian actions can receive compensation for all losses incurred." He added that Russia is trying to destroy as much of Ukraine's infrastructure as it can and that under such a deal, Russian funds and property in signatory nations would be confiscated. Highlighting the redirection of confiscated funds and property to a special compensation fund, Zelensky said "That would be fair as Russia will feel the weight of every missile, every bomb, every shell which it has fired at us." Describing the bombardment of Severodonetsk as "brutal and absolutely pointless", Zelensky said, "There's hell, and that's not an exaggeration." Also read | 'Peresvet' and ‘Zadira': Russia unveils new laser weapons against Ukraine war Marking an end to a weeks-long siege, Russia's defence ministry said the last group of Ukrainian forces holed up in Mariupol's Azovstal steelworks had surrendered. As a part of the compensation to victims or to help in rebuilding a foreign state from war, last month Canada announced that it would change its sanctions law to allow for sanctioned and seized foreign assets to be redistributed. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Watch WION's live TV here

Zelensky proposes formal deal with allies to secure Russian compensation for Ukraine's invasion

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine started in February of this year, the nations and their leaders have been in the news.&nbsp;

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky especially has gained quite a lot of fame for his strong leadership during this tough time.&nbsp;

He is being acclaimed as a hero, and now the comedian turned war-time leader has been turned into a comic book hero.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-soldier-charged-with-war-crimes-pleads-guilty-480154" hreflang="en">Russian soldier charged with war crimes in Ukraine pleads guilty</a>

As per a Reuters report, TidalWave Comics' latest graphic novel biography is titled "Political Power: Volodymyr Zelensky" and it tells the life story of the Ukrainian President.

Darren G. Davis, this graphic novel's publisher who is based in the United States said that this comic meant a great deal to him, because of his Ukrainian heritage.

"Both sets of my grandparents immigrated from Ukraine. I wanted to use this medium to not only tell a story but to somehow donate to the cause at the same time."

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-crisis-moscow-claims-over-1000-ukrainian-soldiers-surrender-in-mariupol-480433">Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Moscow claims over 1,000 Ukrainian soldiers surrender in Mariupol</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-crisis-moscow-claims-over-1000-ukrainian-soldiers-surrender-in-mariupol-480433/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The International Red Cross will receive a share of the proceeds from the sale of these comics.

Released on Wednesday, the 22-page comic book tells the tale of how the actor who once played a fictional President turned fiction into reality. In 2019, the reel life president with zero political experience became the real-life president of Ukraine, promising an end to the war with Moscow-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/959-ukrainian-fighters-have-surrendered-in-azovstal-steel-plant-claims-russia-480219" hreflang="en">959 Ukrainian fighters have surrendered in Azovstal steel plant, claims Russia</a>

"Who is he? What makes him tick? Why is he the right leader for Ukraine at this moment? Those are the things I was curious about when I started the research," said "Political Power: Volodymyr Zelenskyy" writer Michael Frizell.

Pablo Martinena, who has also illustrated biographies of David Beckham, Nelson Mandela, and Donald Trump, is the artist behind the graphic novel.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine started in February of this year, the nations and their leaders have been in the news. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky especially has gained quite a lot of fame for his strong leadership during this tough time.

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

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

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for Russia to be officially recognised as a ''terrorist state'' during his meeting with a US Senate GOP delegation.

Mitch McConnell, the top Republican in the US Senate, who is pressing Republican Senator Rand Paul to end his opposition to a $40 billion aid package for Ukraine, paid an unannounced visit to Kyiv and met Zelensky.

Hailing the strength of relations between the two nations, Zelensky said "We discussed many areas of support for our state, including in defence and finance, as well as strengthening sanctions against Russia."&nbsp;

He posted a video of his meeting with McConnell on Instagram, who was accompanied by fellow Senators Susan Collins, John Barrasso and John Cornyn, and in its caption said "Thank you for your leadership in helping us in our struggle not only for our country, but also for democratic values and freedoms. We really appreciate it."

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The Ukrainian leader "expressed hope that the US Senate will promptly approve a package of additional funding to support the Ukrainian people," as per a statement posted on Zelensky's official website.

Calling it an honour to Zelensky, McConnell said "that the United States stands squarely behind Ukraine and will sustain our support until Ukraine wins this war. It is also essential that America not stand alone."

"It is squarely in our national interest to help Ukraine achieve victory in this war and to help Ukraine and other countries deter other wars of aggression before they start," he added.

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After McConnell's meeting with Zelensky, the Tass news agency reported that Moscow's ambassador to the United States warned against closer cooperation with Ukraine.

Tass quoted Anatoly Antonov as telling Russian television "The United States is getting dragged ever deeper into a conflict with the most unpredictable consequences for relations between the two nuclear powers."&nbsp;

Previously, US President Joe Biden's wife Jill Biden, and US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Kyiv to show their support.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for Russia to be officially recognised as a ''terrorist state'' during his meeting with a US Senate GOP delegation.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for Russia to be officially recognised as a ''terrorist state'' during his meeting with a US Senate GOP delegation. Mitch McConnell, the top Republican in the US Senate, who is pressing Republican Senator Rand Paul to end his opposition to a $40 billion aid package for Ukraine, paid an unannounced visit to Kyiv and met Zelensky. Hailing the strength of relations between the two nations, Zelensky said "We discussed many areas of support for our state, including in defence and finance, as well as strengthening sanctions against Russia." He posted a video of his meeting with McConnell on Instagram, who was accompanied by fellow Senators Susan Collins, John Barrasso and John Cornyn, and in its caption said "Thank you for your leadership in helping us in our struggle not only for our country, but also for democratic values and freedoms. We really appreciate it." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Володимир Зеленський (@zelenskiy_official) The Ukrainian leader "expressed hope that the US Senate will promptly approve a package of additional funding to support the Ukrainian people," as per a statement posted on Zelensky's official website. Calling it an honour to Zelensky, McConnell said "that the United States stands squarely behind Ukraine and will sustain our support until Ukraine wins this war. It is also essential that America not stand alone." "It is squarely in our national interest to help Ukraine achieve victory in this war and to help Ukraine and other countries deter other wars of aggression before they start," he added. After McConnell's meeting with Zelensky, the Tass news agency reported that Moscow's ambassador to the United States warned against closer cooperation with Ukraine. Tass quoted Anatoly Antonov as telling Russian television "The United States is getting dragged ever deeper into a conflict with the most unpredictable consequences for relations between the two nuclear powers." Previously, US President Joe Biden's wife Jill Biden, and US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Kyiv to show their support. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Top Senate Republican meets Zelensky; Ukraine calls for recognition of Russia as 'terrorist state'

US President Joe Biden has said that Russian President Vladimir Putin does not have a way out of the war in Ukraine.

Speaking at a political fundraiser in Washington, Biden said Putin is a very calculating man and is still trying to figure out what to do about the situation in Kyiv.

The 79-year-old said Putin made a mistake by believing that by invading Ukraine he could break up the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the European Union but they both rallied for Kyiv.

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Allowing the US government to accelerate weapons shipments to Ukraine, Biden resurrected a World War II measure used to boost US allies fighting Nazi Germany.

According to Biden, the United States supports Ukrainians' "fight to defend their country and their democracy against (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's brutal war."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-council-chief-charles-michel-forced-to-take-cover-as-russia-attacks-odessa-with-missiles-477714">European Council chief forced to take cover as Odessa hit by Russian missiles</a>

He signed the Lend-lease Act in the Oval Office on Monday hours after Putin oversaw a military parade on Red Square in Moscow for the annual commemoration of the Soviet victory against Nazi Germany.

Signaling his readiness for making a political concession, Biden has requested the rapid approval of another $33 billion in funds for supporting Ukraine.

Urging that Congress get the Ukraine funding bill "to my desk right away," he said, "We cannot afford delay in this vital war effort."

(With inputs from agencies)

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US President Joe Biden has said that Russian President Vladimir Putin does not have a way out of the war in Ukraine. Speaking at a political fundraiser in Washington, Biden said Putin is a very calculating man and is still trying to figure out what to do about the situation in Kyiv.

US President Joe Biden has said that Russian President Vladimir Putin does not have a way out of the war in Ukraine. Speaking at a political fundraiser in Washington, Biden said Putin is a very calculating man and is still trying to figure out what to do about the situation in Kyiv. The 79-year-old said Putin made a mistake by believing that by invading Ukraine he could break up the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the European Union but they both rallied for Kyiv. Allowing the US government to accelerate weapons shipments to Ukraine, Biden resurrected a World War II measure used to boost US allies fighting Nazi Germany. According to Biden, the United States supports Ukrainians' "fight to defend their country and their democracy against (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's brutal war." Also read | European Council chief forced to take cover as Odessa hit by Russian missiles He signed the Lend-lease Act in the Oval Office on Monday hours after Putin oversaw a military parade on Red Square in Moscow for the annual commemoration of the Soviet victory against Nazi Germany. Signaling his readiness for making a political concession, Biden has requested the rapid approval of another $33 billion in funds for supporting Ukraine. Urging that Congress get the Ukraine funding bill "to my desk right away," he said, "We cannot afford delay in this vital war effort." (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Putin does not have a way out of Ukraine war: Biden

William Burns, the director of the Central Intelligence Agency of the United States, has said that Ukraine's fierce resistance to Russia is affecting China's calculations on Taiwan.

Beijing claims Taiwan as a part of its territory and Chinese President Xi Jinping has warned that it will use force for re-unification in case of resistance.

Military experts have raised concerns that China might use Russia's invasion of Ukraine as an excuse to attack Taiwan.

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During an interview with the Financial Times, Burns said, "I think the Chinese leadership is looking very carefully at all this, at the costs and consequences of any effort to use force to gain control over Taiwan."&nbsp;

"I don't for a minute think that this has eroded Xi's determination overtime to gain control over Taiwan."&nbsp;

"But I think it's something that's affecting their calculation about how and when they go about doing that," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-try-anything-stupid-against-taiwan-hacker-group-anonymous-warns-china-477038" hreflang="en">'Don't try anything stupid against Taiwan': Hacker group Anonymous warns China</a>

Burns said he thinks Beijing has been surprised by the poor performance of Russian military forces and was unsettled by the fact that what Putin has done is to drive Europeans and Americans closer together.

Burns, a former US ambassador to Russia, has pointed out that Russia is "doubling down" on the war.

The CIA director, who has spent much time studying Russian President Vladimir Putin, believes the 69-year-old has not changed his view that his troops can defeat Ukraine.

According to Burns, the Western intelligence agencies do not believe that Moscow is planning to use tactical nuclear weapons despite Putin's veiled threats of doing so.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

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Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world's unending wars. Catch our special series World at War every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION. 
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William Burns, the director of the Central Intelligence Agency of the United States, has said that Ukraine's fierce resistance to Russia is affecting China's calculations on Taiwan.

William Burns, the director of the Central Intelligence Agency of the United States, has said that Ukraine's fierce resistance to Russia is affecting China's calculations on Taiwan. Beijing claims Taiwan as a part of its territory and Chinese President Xi Jinping has warned that it will use force for re-unification in case of resistance. Military experts have raised concerns that China might use Russia's invasion of Ukraine as an excuse to attack Taiwan. During an interview with the Financial Times, Burns said, "I think the Chinese leadership is looking very carefully at all this, at the costs and consequences of any effort to use force to gain control over Taiwan." "I don't for a minute think that this has eroded Xi's determination overtime to gain control over Taiwan." "But I think it's something that's affecting their calculation about how and when they go about doing that," he added. Also read | 'Don't try anything stupid against Taiwan': Hacker group Anonymous warns China Burns said he thinks Beijing has been surprised by the poor performance of Russian military forces and was unsettled by the fact that what Putin has done is to drive Europeans and Americans closer together. Burns, a former US ambassador to Russia, has pointed out that Russia is "doubling down" on the war. The CIA director, who has spent much time studying Russian President Vladimir Putin, believes the 69-year-old has not changed his view that his troops can defeat Ukraine. According to Burns, the Western intelligence agencies do not believe that Moscow is planning to use tactical nuclear weapons despite Putin's veiled threats of doing so. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world's unending wars. Catch our special series World at War every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

CIA director says Ukraine's fierce resistance to Russia is affecting China's calculations on Taiwan