President Joe Biden banned Russian oil and other energy imports to the United States, piling pressure on Vladimir Putin to halt the assault on Ukraine, but an effort to evacuate civilians from the besieged port city of Mariupol failed. 
 
Ukraine's government accused Russia of shelling a humanitarian corridor it had promised in Mariupol. 
 
SANCTIONS 
 
* Biden acknowledged the ban on Russian energy imports, which has bipartisan support, would drive up U.S. energy prices. 
 
* Britain said it aimed to phase out imports of Russian oil by the end of 2022. The EU plans to cut dependency on Russian gas this year by two-thirds. 
 
FIGHTING 
 
* Ukrainian troops repulsed efforts by Russian forces to enter the eastern city of Kharkiv, regional governor Oleh Synehubov said. 
 
* Russian forces have repeatedly tried to seize the southern regional capital of Mykolayiv in attacks that have been repulsed by Ukrainian troops, a Ukrainian presidential adviser said 
 
CORRIDORS 
 
* Russian forces will stop firing from 10 a.m. Moscow time (0700 GMT) on Wednesday to provide humanitarian corridors for people to leave Kyiv and four other cities, Tass news agency cited a senior Russian official as saying. 
 
DEATH TOLL 
 
* The United Nations human rights office said it had verified 1,335 civilian casualties so far in Ukraine, including 474 killed and 861 injured, but the true toll was likely to be higher. 
 
* Ukraine says its forces have killed more than 11,000 Russian troops. Russia has confirmed about 500 losses. Neither side has disclosed Ukrainian casualties. 
 
NATO AIRCRAFT 
 
The United States rejected a surprise offer by NATO ally Poland on Tuesday to transfer its Russian-made MiG-29 fighter jets to a U.S. base in Germany as a way to replenish Ukraine`s air force in its defence against invading Russian forces. 
 
The United States has sought to speed weapons deliveries to Ukraine. But the prospect of flying combat aircraft from NATO territory into the war zone "raises serious concerns for the entire NATO alliance," the Pentagon said. 
 
ECONOMIC IMPACT 
 
* McDonald`s Corp, Starbucks and L`Oreal are temporarily closing all outlets in Russia. Coca-Cola and Pepsi suspended soda sales in the country. 
 
* Unilever became the first major European food company to stop imports and exports out of Russia. 
 
* The London Metal Exchange halted trade in nickel after prices of the metal, a key component in electric vehicle batteries, doubled to more than $100,000 a tonne. 
 
QUOTES 
 
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy told Britain`s House of Commons via videolink: "The question for us now is to be or not to be. I can give you a definitive answer: it`s definitely to be." 
 
"Russia may continue to grind out its advance at a horrible price, but this much is already clear: Ukraine will never be a victory for Putin," Biden told reporters. "Putin may be able to take a city, but he`ll never be able to hold the country."

President Joe Biden banned Russian oil and other energy imports to the United States, piling pressure on Vladimir Putin to halt the assault on Ukraine, but an effort to evacuate civilians from the besieged port city of Mariupol failed.

President Joe Biden banned Russian oil and other energy imports to the United States, piling pressure on Vladimir Putin to halt the assault on Ukraine, but an effort to evacuate civilians from the besieged port city of Mariupol failed. Ukraine's government accused Russia of shelling a humanitarian corridor it had promised in Mariupol. SANCTIONS * Biden acknowledged the ban on Russian energy imports, which has bipartisan support, would drive up U.S. energy prices. * Britain said it aimed to phase out imports of Russian oil by the end of 2022. The EU plans to cut dependency on Russian gas this year by two-thirds. FIGHTING * Ukrainian troops repulsed efforts by Russian forces to enter the eastern city of Kharkiv, regional governor Oleh Synehubov said. * Russian forces have repeatedly tried to seize the southern regional capital of Mykolayiv in attacks that have been repulsed by Ukrainian troops, a Ukrainian presidential adviser said CORRIDORS * Russian forces will stop firing from 10 a.m. Moscow time (0700 GMT) on Wednesday to provide humanitarian corridors for people to leave Kyiv and four other cities, Tass news agency cited a senior Russian official as saying. DEATH TOLL * The United Nations human rights office said it had verified 1,335 civilian casualties so far in Ukraine, including 474 killed and 861 injured, but the true toll was likely to be higher. * Ukraine says its forces have killed more than 11,000 Russian troops. Russia has confirmed about 500 losses. Neither side has disclosed Ukrainian casualties. NATO AIRCRAFT The United States rejected a surprise offer by NATO ally Poland on Tuesday to transfer its Russian-made MiG-29 fighter jets to a U.S. base in Germany as a way to replenish Ukraine`s air force in its defence against invading Russian forces. The United States has sought to speed weapons deliveries to Ukraine. But the prospect of flying combat aircraft from NATO territory into the war zone "raises serious concerns for the entire NATO alliance," the Pentagon said. ECONOMIC IMPACT * McDonald`s Corp, Starbucks and L`Oreal are temporarily closing all outlets in Russia. Coca-Cola and Pepsi suspended soda sales in the country. * Unilever became the first major European food company to stop imports and exports out of Russia. * The London Metal Exchange halted trade in nickel after prices of the metal, a key component in electric vehicle batteries, doubled to more than $100,000 a tonne. QUOTES Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy told Britain`s House of Commons via videolink: "The question for us now is to be or not to be. I can give you a definitive answer: it`s definitely to be." "Russia may continue to grind out its advance at a horrible price, but this much is already clear: Ukraine will never be a victory for Putin," Biden told reporters. "Putin may be able to take a city, but he`ll never be able to hold the country."

Russian invasion of Ukraine: What you need to know right now

Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Ukraine will no longer be seeking NATO membership, a delicate issue cited by Russia as a reason for invading its pro-Western neighbor.

Zelensky also said he is open to "compromise" over the status of two breakaway pro-Russian territories that Putin recognized as independent just before the invasion, on February 24.

"I have cooled down regarding this question a long time ago after we understood that ... NATO is not prepared to accept Ukraine," Zelensky said in an interview aired Monday night on ABC News.

"The alliance is afraid of controversial things, and confrontation with Russia," the president added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-not-give-up-will-fight-till-the-end-says-ukraine-president-zelensky-tells-uk-parliament-460376" hreflang="en">We will not give up, will fight till the end, Ukraine President Zelensky tells UK Parliament</a>

Regarding NATO membership, Zelensky said that he did not want to be president of a "country which is begging something on its knees."&nbsp;

Russia is opposed to neighbouring Ukraine joining NATO, the transatlantic alliance formed at the start of the Cold War to defend Europe from the Soviet Union.&nbsp;

The Kremlin has been infuriated by the alliance's expansion to former Soviet bloc countries in recent years.

NATO enlargement, as well as the military posture of these new Western allies on their doorstep, is viewed by Russia as a threat.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-bans-us-import-of-russian-oil-global-economy-to-face-heat-460356" hreflang="en">Joe Biden bans US import of Russian oil, global economy to face heat?</a>

Putin recognized Donetsk and Lugansk in eastern Ukraine, which have been at war with Kyiv since 2014, as independent "republics" shortly before he shocked the world by launching Ukraine's invasion.&nbsp;

Now, Putin wants Ukraine to recognize them as sovereign and independent, too.

When asked about Russian demands, Zelensky said he was open to dialogue.

"I'm talking about security guarantees," he said.

Watch |&nbsp;Amid Russian offensive, Ukraine backs away from NATO bid?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/amid-russian-offensive-ukraine-backs-away-from-nato-bid-460396/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He said these two regions "have not been recognized by anyone but Russia, these pseudo republics. But we can discuss and find the compromise on how these territories will live on."

"What is important to me is how the people in those territories are going to live who want to be part of Ukraine, who in Ukraine will say that they want to have them in," Zelensky said.

"So the question is more difficult than simply acknowledging them," the president said.

"This is another ultimatum and we are not prepared for ultimatums. What needs to be done is for President Putin to start talking, start the dialogue instead of living in the informational bubble without oxygen."

(With inputs from agencies)

Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Ukraine will no longer be seeking NATO membership, a delicate issue cited by Russia as a reason for invading its pro-Western neighbor.

Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Ukraine will no longer be seeking NATO membership, a delicate issue cited by Russia as a reason for invading its pro-Western neighbor. Zelensky also said he is open to "compromise" over the status of two breakaway pro-Russian territories that Putin recognized as independent just before the invasion, on February 24. "I have cooled down regarding this question a long time ago after we understood that ... NATO is not prepared to accept Ukraine," Zelensky said in an interview aired Monday night on ABC News. "The alliance is afraid of controversial things, and confrontation with Russia," the president added. Also read | We will not give up, will fight till the end, Ukraine President Zelensky tells UK Parliament Regarding NATO membership, Zelensky said that he did not want to be president of a "country which is begging something on its knees." Russia is opposed to neighbouring Ukraine joining NATO, the transatlantic alliance formed at the start of the Cold War to defend Europe from the Soviet Union. The Kremlin has been infuriated by the alliance's expansion to former Soviet bloc countries in recent years. NATO enlargement, as well as the military posture of these new Western allies on their doorstep, is viewed by Russia as a threat. Also read | Joe Biden bans US import of Russian oil, global economy to face heat? Putin recognized Donetsk and Lugansk in eastern Ukraine, which have been at war with Kyiv since 2014, as independent "republics" shortly before he shocked the world by launching Ukraine's invasion. Now, Putin wants Ukraine to recognize them as sovereign and independent, too. When asked about Russian demands, Zelensky said he was open to dialogue. "I'm talking about security guarantees," he said. Watch | Amid Russian offensive, Ukraine backs away from NATO bid? He said these two regions "have not been recognized by anyone but Russia, these pseudo republics. But we can discuss and find the compromise on how these territories will live on." "What is important to me is how the people in those territories are going to live who want to be part of Ukraine, who in Ukraine will say that they want to have them in," Zelensky said. "So the question is more difficult than simply acknowledging them," the president said. "This is another ultimatum and we are not prepared for ultimatums. What needs to be done is for President Putin to start talking, start the dialogue instead of living in the informational bubble without oxygen." (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky gives up on joining NATO, says he does not want to lead a nation 'begging something on its knees'

In a statement Tuesday, the UN watchdog said that the Chernobyl nuclear power plant is no longer sending data to them. The agency also expressed concern for staff operating under Russian guard at the Ukrainian facility.

Rafael Grossi, the chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), "indicated that remote data transmission from safeguards monitoring systems installed at the Chornobyl NPP had been lost", the agency said in its statement.

"The Agency is looking into the status of safeguards monitoring systems in other locations in Ukraine and will provide further information soon," it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-gives-up-on-joining-nato-says-he-does-not-want-to-lead-a-nation-begging-something-on-its-knees-460394" hreflang="en">Zelensky gives up on joining NATO, says he does not want to lead a nation “begging something on its knees"</a>

By "safeguards," the IAEA refers to the technical measures it uses to regulate nuclear material and activities with the goal of suppressing the spread of nuclear weapons through the early detection of their misuse.

On February 24, Russia invaded Ukraine and seized Chernobyl, the site of a 1986 disaster that killed hundreds of people and spread radioactive contamination west across Europe.

Staff conditions were "worsening" at the site, the IAEA said, citing Ukraine's nuclear regulator.&nbsp;Over 200 technical staff and guards are trapped on the site, working 13 days straight since the Russians took over.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-not-give-up-will-fight-till-the-end-says-ukraine-president-zelensky-tells-uk-parliament-460376" hreflang="en">We will not give up, will fight till the end, Ukraine President Zelensky tells UK Parliament</a>

The defunct plant lies inside an exclusion zone that also contains decommissioned reactors and a radioactive waste facility.&nbsp;

A staff of more than 2,000 is still employed at the plant as it must be constantly managed to prevent another nuclear accident.

Russian authorities were urged to allow workers to rotate because regular shifts and rest were crucial to the site's safety.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Meet the mediators of the Russia-Ukraine war

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-meet-the-mediators-of-the-russia-ukraine-war-460387/embed" width="560"></iframe>

"I'm deeply concerned about the difficult and stressful situation facing staff at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant and the potential risks this entails for nuclear safety," said Grossi.

"I call on the forces in effective control of the site to urgently facilitate the safe rotation of personnel there."

Since the Ukrainian regulator could only reach the plant via email, Grossi reiterated his offer to travel to the plant or elsewhere to secure from all parties "the commitment to safety and security" of Ukraine's power plants.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a statement Tuesday, the UN watchdog said that the Chernobyl nuclear power plant is no longer sending data to them. The agency also expressed concern for staff operating under Russian guard at the Ukrainian facility.

In a statement Tuesday, the UN watchdog said that the Chernobyl nuclear power plant is no longer sending data to them. The agency also expressed concern for staff operating under Russian guard at the Ukrainian facility. Rafael Grossi, the chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), "indicated that remote data transmission from safeguards monitoring systems installed at the Chornobyl NPP had been lost", the agency said in its statement. "The Agency is looking into the status of safeguards monitoring systems in other locations in Ukraine and will provide further information soon," it said. Also read | Zelensky gives up on joining NATO, says he does not want to lead a nation “begging something on its knees" By "safeguards," the IAEA refers to the technical measures it uses to regulate nuclear material and activities with the goal of suppressing the spread of nuclear weapons through the early detection of their misuse. On February 24, Russia invaded Ukraine and seized Chernobyl, the site of a 1986 disaster that killed hundreds of people and spread radioactive contamination west across Europe. Staff conditions were "worsening" at the site, the IAEA said, citing Ukraine's nuclear regulator. Over 200 technical staff and guards are trapped on the site, working 13 days straight since the Russians took over. Also read | We will not give up, will fight till the end, Ukraine President Zelensky tells UK Parliament The defunct plant lies inside an exclusion zone that also contains decommissioned reactors and a radioactive waste facility. A staff of more than 2,000 is still employed at the plant as it must be constantly managed to prevent another nuclear accident. Russian authorities were urged to allow workers to rotate because regular shifts and rest were crucial to the site's safety. Watch | Gravitas: Meet the mediators of the Russia-Ukraine war "I'm deeply concerned about the difficult and stressful situation facing staff at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant and the potential risks this entails for nuclear safety," said Grossi. "I call on the forces in effective control of the site to urgently facilitate the safe rotation of personnel there." Since the Ukrainian regulator could only reach the plant via email, Grossi reiterated his offer to travel to the plant or elsewhere to secure from all parties "the commitment to safety and security" of Ukraine's power plants. (With inputs from agencies)

UN nuclear watchdog no longer receiving data from Chernobyl, expresses worry about the 130 trapped workers

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

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is how commercial satellites are shaping the Ukraine conflict

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

An overwhelming majority of nations at the&nbsp;UN&nbsp;General Assembly&nbsp;voted on Wednesday to condemn Moscow's invasion of Ukraine by "demanding" Russia "immediately" withdraw from it.

The move is seen as a powerful rebuke to Moscow's invasion.

US President Joe Biden in a statement later Wednesday said that "the world is rejecting Russia’s lies,". "Russia is responsible for the devastating abuses of human rights and the international humanitarian crisis that we are watching unfold in Ukraine in real time."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-general-assembly-votes-to-demand-russian-withdrawal-from-ukraine-india-china-abstain-458333">UN General Assembly votes to demand Russian withdrawal from Ukraine; India, China abstain</a>

The resolution "deplores"&nbsp;the invasion of Ukraine&nbsp;and President Vladimir Putin's decision to place nuclear weapons on alert&nbsp;"in the strongest terms".

"They have come to deprive Ukraine of the very right to exist," Ukraine's ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya told the Assembly ahead of the vote.

"It's already clear that the goal of Russia is not an occupation only. It is genocide."

The text of the resolution has undergone numerous changes over the past couple of days.&nbsp;It no longer&nbsp;"condemns"&nbsp;the invasion as anticipated, but instead&nbsp;"deplores in the strongest terms the Russian Federation's aggression against Ukraine."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-staggering-humanitarian-cost-of-russias-cruellest-day-of-attack-on-ukraine-458341" hreflang="en">The 'staggering' humanitarian cost of Russia's 'cruellest' day of attack on Ukraine</a>

The vote, which came as Putin's forces bore down on Kyiv while terrified Ukrainians fled, was touted by diplomats as a bellwether of democracy in an autocratic world.

Olof Skoog, the EU's ambassador to the UN, said the vote was "not just about Ukraine."

"It is about defending an international order based on rules we all have signed up to," he said in a statement.

Watch |&nbsp;UNGA votes on resolution on Russia's invasion of Ukraine &amp; demands Russia to withdraw troops

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/unga-votes-on-resolution-on-russias-invasion-of-ukraine-demands-russia-to-withdraw-troops-458339/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

UN&nbsp;Secretary-General Antonio Guterres remarked that the General Assembly's message was "loud and clear."

"End hostilities in Ukraine -- now.&nbsp;Silence the guns -- now," he said in a statement.&nbsp;

"As bad as the situation is for the people in Ukraine right now, it threatens to get much, much worse.&nbsp;The ticking clock is a time bomb."

During the session, some delegations chose to place stuffed animals on their tables - a stark reminder of the conflict's devastating impact on children.

141 out of 193 member states voted for the non-binding resolution after more than two days of extraordinary debate during which the Ukrainian ambassador accused Russia of genocide.&nbsp;

A total of 35 countries, including&nbsp;China, India and Pakistan&nbsp;abstained from voting, and only five opposed it -- Eritrea, North Korea, Syria, Belarus and of course Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

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

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

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

US officials warned Wednesday of the "staggering" human toll of Moscow's incursion into Ukraine following the apparent use of cluster bombs and other treaty violating weapons that threaten to escalate further the conflict.

The warning came as Russia reported that 498 of its troops were killed in the assault on ex-Soviet Ukraine, the first official death toll it has released but one that Kyiv says is considerably undercounted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/320-missiles-in-a-day-russia-targets-short-range-ballistic-missiles-at-ukraine-what-is-the-result-458123" hreflang="en">320 missiles in a day: Russia targets short-range ballistic missiles at Ukraine; what is the result?</a>

Despite determined resistance in Ukraine, Russia appears to be stepping up the offensive initiated by President Vladimir Putin seven days earlier -- in defiance of almost all of the international community.

"Today was the hardest, cruellest of the seven days of this war," said Vadym Boychenko, the mayor of the key southeastern port of Mariupol who said Russian forces pummelled the city for hours and were attempting to block civilians from leaving.

"Today they just wanted to destroy us all," he said in a video on Telegram, accusing Russian forces of attacking residential buildings.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-bank-prepares-3-billion-emergency-aid-package-for-war-torn-ukraine-458087" hreflang="en">World Bank prepares $3 billion emergency aid package for war-torn Ukraine</a>

Boychenko said the assault damaged more of the city's vital infrastructure, leaving residents without light, water, or heat.

Top US diplomat Antony Blinken warned that the human toll was already "staggering," and that Russia has been attacking places that "aren't military targets."

"Hundreds if not thousands of civilians have been killed or wounded," said the Secretary of State, who will be travelling to eastern Europe next week to rally support for Ukraine and to secure a ceasefire.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Tracking the Ukraine Conflict

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-tracking-the-ukraine-conflict-458325/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to Ukraine's government, at least 350 civilians, including 14 children, have been killed in the conflict, and hundreds of thousands have fled the country since it began.&nbsp;

The UN's office for human rights, OHCHR, said it registered 752 civilian casualties, including 227 deaths, but believes that the number is "considerably higher."

"The humanitarian consequences will only grow in the days ahead," Blinken warned.

(With inputs from agency)

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

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

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

Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Where the refugees are escaping to?

In Pics: Kyiv metro offers Ukrainians shelter from Russian shells

Manish Dave, an Indian restaurant owner in Ukraine's embattled capital Kyiv, stepped in as Russia's attack on the country continued.

Residents of Kyiv were strongly urged to seek shelter due to the attack. In the midst of the deadly clashes, Dave's basement eatery has transformed into a makeshift shelter. Here, dozens of children, pregnant women, students, homeless people, and older locals have gathered to seek shelter.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-china-could-get-russia-to-lower-its-tone-on-nukes-says-international-relations-expert-458038" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'China could get Russia to lower its tone on nukes', says international relations expert</a>

During a telephonic interview with the Washington Post, Dave, 52, said “I will continue to offer shelter and food for as long as I can”.

The restaurant has housed and fed more than 130 people since Russia declared war on Thursday.

David moved from Vadodara in the Indian state of Gujarat to Kyiv in October 2021 with the intention of opening an Indian restaurant. Thousands of Indian students live in the region and he wanted to give them a taste of home.

In January, he opened Saathiya Restaurant in an underground space at Bogomelets National Medical University, but disaster struck before the business could become profitable.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-closes-its-airspace-to-russian-aircrafts-457961" hreflang="en">United States closes its airspace to Russian aircrafts</a>

Dave recalled that everything was going smoothly. And then everything fell apart.

“There was fire, blasts, bombs,” he added, describing the experience as scary.

While a barrage of explosions erupted, and civilians desperately sought shelter, Dave had an epiphany: "A basement is a safe place."

“The place is so big, and I should help.”

First, he invited his regular customers - who are primarily students - to stay in his restaurant in the basement. After that, he posted an invitation to anyone in need of shelter and food on Telegram.

“If you don’t have any proper safe place to stay during this time, please go here,” he wrote, including the address of his restaurant.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;India ramps up evacuation efforts: IAF's C-17 leaves for Romania to bring Indians back

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-ramps-up-evacuation-efforts-iafs-c-17-leaves-for-romania-to-bring-indians-back-458033/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Soon, strangers began arriving; Dave has been feeding shelter seekers for free. A traditional Indian dish like dal served with rice is prepared by him and his staff.&nbsp;

Additionally, they prepared simple pasta and other European dishes that are easy to prepare in large quantities and inexpensive to prepare. The influx of people has forced them to ration resources.

The restaurant is currently closed and will remain closed for the foreseeable future.

He refuses to accept funds from those who ate or stayed at his restaurant. As an alternative to financial assistance, Dave is asking people to purchase groceries so that he can continue taking care of those in need for as long as possible.

Manish Dave, an Indian restaurant owner in Ukraine's embattled capital Kyiv, stepped in as Russia's attack on the country continued. Residents of Kyiv were strongly urged to seek shelter due to the attack.

Manish Dave, an Indian restaurant owner in Ukraine's embattled capital Kyiv, stepped in as Russia's attack on the country continued. Residents of Kyiv were strongly urged to seek shelter due to the attack. In the midst of the deadly clashes, Dave's basement eatery has transformed into a makeshift shelter. Here, dozens of children, pregnant women, students, homeless people, and older locals have gathered to seek shelter. Also read | Exclusive: 'China could get Russia to lower its tone on nukes', says international relations expert During a telephonic interview with the Washington Post, Dave, 52, said “I will continue to offer shelter and food for as long as I can”. The restaurant has housed and fed more than 130 people since Russia declared war on Thursday. David moved from Vadodara in the Indian state of Gujarat to Kyiv in October 2021 with the intention of opening an Indian restaurant. Thousands of Indian students live in the region and he wanted to give them a taste of home. In January, he opened Saathiya Restaurant in an underground space at Bogomelets National Medical University, but disaster struck before the business could become profitable. Also read | United States closes its airspace to Russian aircrafts Dave recalled that everything was going smoothly. And then everything fell apart. “There was fire, blasts, bombs,” he added, describing the experience as scary. While a barrage of explosions erupted, and civilians desperately sought shelter, Dave had an epiphany: "A basement is a safe place." “The place is so big, and I should help.” First, he invited his regular customers - who are primarily students - to stay in his restaurant in the basement. After that, he posted an invitation to anyone in need of shelter and food on Telegram. “If you don’t have any proper safe place to stay during this time, please go here,” he wrote, including the address of his restaurant. Watch | India ramps up evacuation efforts: IAF's C-17 leaves for Romania to bring Indians back Soon, strangers began arriving; Dave has been feeding shelter seekers for free. A traditional Indian dish like dal served with rice is prepared by him and his staff. Additionally, they prepared simple pasta and other European dishes that are easy to prepare in large quantities and inexpensive to prepare. The influx of people has forced them to ration resources. The restaurant is currently closed and will remain closed for the foreseeable future. He refuses to accept funds from those who ate or stayed at his restaurant. As an alternative to financial assistance, Dave is asking people to purchase groceries so that he can continue taking care of those in need for as long as possible.

Indian hospitality at its best: Indian restaurateur turns saviour amid Ukraine crisis

A piece of good news for Indians fleeing war-torn Ukraine, leaving behind their studies or jobs. It is now at least possible for them to bring back their companion animals, cats and dogs.

"Considering the unique and extraordinary situations in war-hit Ukraine wherein pre-export requisite formalities for export of pets into India may not be fulfilled, the import of pet dogs and/or pet cats along with stranded Indians being rescued by the Government of India is being facilitated as a one-time relaxation measure as under," stated a memorandum issued by the Ministry for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-hospitality-at-its-best-indian-restaurateur-turns-saviour-amid-ukraine-crisis-458042">Indian hospitality at its best: Indian restaurateur turns saviour amid Ukraine crisis</a>

Following an appeal for help on social media by Rishabh Kaushik, an Indian student, who refused to leave Ukraine without his puppy, PETA India reached out to Parshottam Rupala, Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairy.

"Separating animal companions from their guardians would have been another tragedy for those desperately fleeing Ukraine, and it would have only resulted in more heartbreak and unnecessarily lost lives," said PETA India Chief Executive Officer and veterinarian, Manilal Valliyate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amidst-thousands-of-indians-scrambling-for-home-this-17-year-old-decides-to-stay-in-ukraine-457433">Amidst thousands of Indians scrambling for home, this 17-year-old decides to stay in Ukraine</a>

As part of the measure, pre-import and post-import conditions will be relaxed, regional veterinarians of all animal quarantine and certification services are directed to coordinate with the respective state veterinary authorities to share information about each import with the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying of the Central Government.

There have been reports from Ukraine of people refusing to leave without their companion animals. They have been travelling long distances carrying them, sometimes even in their arms, facing the bitter cold and risks of war trying to find a safe route out.

Watch |&nbsp;India ramps up evacuation efforts: IAF's C-17 leaves for Romania to bring Indians back

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-ramps-up-evacuation-efforts-iafs-c-17-leaves-for-romania-to-bring-indians-back-458033/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

At least four pet owners have contacted Rescue Every Distressed Indian Overseas (REDIO), an NGO, to ask that their pets be allowed to enter India.

By making this decision, India joins Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Lithuania, all of which have streamlined the entry of animals. This enables families, such as Rishabh and his family, to escape war zones with their beloved animal companions.

(With inputs from agencies)

A piece of good news for Indians fleeing war-torn Ukraine, leaving behind their studies or jobs. It is now at least possible for them to bring back their companion animals, cats and dogs.

A piece of good news for Indians fleeing war-torn Ukraine, leaving behind their studies or jobs. It is now at least possible for them to bring back their companion animals, cats and dogs. "Considering the unique and extraordinary situations in war-hit Ukraine wherein pre-export requisite formalities for export of pets into India may not be fulfilled, the import of pet dogs and/or pet cats along with stranded Indians being rescued by the Government of India is being facilitated as a one-time relaxation measure as under," stated a memorandum issued by the Ministry for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. Also read | Indian hospitality at its best: Indian restaurateur turns saviour amid Ukraine crisis Following an appeal for help on social media by Rishabh Kaushik, an Indian student, who refused to leave Ukraine without his puppy, PETA India reached out to Parshottam Rupala, Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairy. "Separating animal companions from their guardians would have been another tragedy for those desperately fleeing Ukraine, and it would have only resulted in more heartbreak and unnecessarily lost lives," said PETA India Chief Executive Officer and veterinarian, Manilal Valliyate. Also read | Amidst thousands of Indians scrambling for home, this 17-year-old decides to stay in Ukraine As part of the measure, pre-import and post-import conditions will be relaxed, regional veterinarians of all animal quarantine and certification services are directed to coordinate with the respective state veterinary authorities to share information about each import with the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying of the Central Government. There have been reports from Ukraine of people refusing to leave without their companion animals. They have been travelling long distances carrying them, sometimes even in their arms, facing the bitter cold and risks of war trying to find a safe route out. Watch | India ramps up evacuation efforts: IAF's C-17 leaves for Romania to bring Indians back At least four pet owners have contacted Rescue Every Distressed Indian Overseas (REDIO), an NGO, to ask that their pets be allowed to enter India. By making this decision, India joins Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Lithuania, all of which have streamlined the entry of animals. This enables families, such as Rishabh and his family, to escape war zones with their beloved animal companions. (With inputs from agencies)

As people refuse to leave furry companions behind, India relaxes norms for bringing back pets from Ukraine

The World Bank announced Tuesday that it is preparing a $3 billion aid package to help war-torn Ukraine, including at least $350 million in immediate funds.

World Bank President David Malpass said in a joint statement with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva that the first tranche will be submitted to the Board for approval this week, followed by $200 million in fast-disbursing support for health and education.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/long-lines-60-hours-wait-shelter-and-for-some-racism-awaits-them-as-they-flee-ukraine-for-poland-458080" hreflang="en">Long lines, 60 hours wait, shelter and for some racism awaits them as they flee Ukraine for Poland</a>

The International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, who have both pledged and are now delivering further support to Ukraine, moving swiftly to implement this plan.

The IMF, which has an ongoing $2.2 billion financing program with the country through June, will consider the country's latest request for emergency financing "as early as next week," the statement said.

The leaders of the global crisis lenders deplored Russia's invasion of its neighbour and the damage it is causing to the economy and people.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-hospitality-at-its-best-indian-restaurateur-turns-saviour-amid-ukraine-crisis-458042" hreflang="en">Indian hospitality at its best: Indian restaurateur turns saviour amid Ukraine crisis</a>

"We are deeply shocked and saddened by the devastating human and economic toll brought by the war in Ukraine," they said, noting the "significant spillovers to other countries" including higher commodity prices that "risk further fueling inflation."

Furthermore, the economic sanctions imposed on Russia "will also have a significant economic impact."

Watch |&nbsp;Zelensky's message to Russia: Stop bombing cities before ceasefire talks

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/zelenskys-message-to-russia-stop-bombing-cities-before-ceasefire-talks-458057/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Early Tuesday, members of the Group of Seven met with central bankers and pledged to mobilize support for Kyiv while considering additional measures to further isolate Moscow.

As the fighting intensified and hundreds of thousands of people fled Ukraine, oil prices rose to over $106 a barrel on Tuesday.

The World Bank announced Tuesday that it is preparing a $3 billion aid package to help war-torn Ukraine, including at least $350 million in immediate funds. World Bank President David Malpass said in a joint statement with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva that the first tranche will be submitted to the Board for approval this week, followed by $200 million in fast-disbursing support for health and education.

The World Bank announced Tuesday that it is preparing a $3 billion aid package to help war-torn Ukraine, including at least $350 million in immediate funds. World Bank President David Malpass said in a joint statement with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva that the first tranche will be submitted to the Board for approval this week, followed by $200 million in fast-disbursing support for health and education. Also read | Long lines, 60 hours wait, shelter and for some racism awaits them as they flee Ukraine for Poland The International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, who have both pledged and are now delivering further support to Ukraine, moving swiftly to implement this plan. The IMF, which has an ongoing $2.2 billion financing program with the country through June, will consider the country's latest request for emergency financing "as early as next week," the statement said. The leaders of the global crisis lenders deplored Russia's invasion of its neighbour and the damage it is causing to the economy and people. Also read | Indian hospitality at its best: Indian restaurateur turns saviour amid Ukraine crisis "We are deeply shocked and saddened by the devastating human and economic toll brought by the war in Ukraine," they said, noting the "significant spillovers to other countries" including higher commodity prices that "risk further fueling inflation." Furthermore, the economic sanctions imposed on Russia "will also have a significant economic impact." Watch | Zelensky's message to Russia: Stop bombing cities before ceasefire talks Early Tuesday, members of the Group of Seven met with central bankers and pledged to mobilize support for Kyiv while considering additional measures to further isolate Moscow. As the fighting intensified and hundreds of thousands of people fled Ukraine, oil prices rose to over $106 a barrel on Tuesday.

World Bank prepares $3 billion emergency aid package for war-torn Ukraine

Long lines, 60 hours wait, shelter and for some racism awaits them as they flee Ukraine for Poland

An Indian student told news agency ANI that the Indian flag not only saved Indians stranded in Ukraine, but it also helped Pakistani and Turkish students fleeing the war-torn country.

The Indian students who arrived in the city of Bucharest, Romania from Ukraine said that the Indian flag helped them, as well as some Pakistani and Turkish students, safely cross the various checkpoints.

"The Indian flag was also being used by Turkish and Pakistani students, a student said, adding that the Indian flag had been of tremendous help to them as well.

A medical student from Odesa, Ukraine, stated, "In Ukraine, we were advised that if we bring an Indian flag with us, we won't have any problems."

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The Union Minister, G. Kishan Reddy, had previously recommended Indian students stranded in Ukraine's crisis-stricken country to fly the national flag on their vehicles to ensure a safe departure.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-is-ukraine-such-a-popular-choice-for-indian-medical-students-456990">Also read | Why is Ukraine such a popular choice for Indian medical students?</a>

The students also described how they purchased spray paints from the marketplaces and used them to create an Indian flag on their own. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/stop-criticising-indian-students-stuck-in-ukraine-they-need-to-be-appreciated-457069">Also read | Stop criticising Indian students stuck in Ukraine; they need to be appreciated</a>

"I dashed inside the store and purchased some colour sprays and a curtain.After that, I cut the curtain and spray-painted the Indian tricolour on it "explained one of the students.&nbsp;

They didn't have much trouble at Molodova because the Indian embassy had already made the necessary arrangements. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-wipes-out-bloodthirsty-chechen-special-forces-sent-to-zelensky-457107">Also read | Ukraine wipes out 'bloodthirsty' Chechen special forces sent to assassinate Zelensky</a>

The students also thanked the Indian embassy authorities for providing them with food and lodging as they awaited their flights back to India.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An Indian student told news agency ANI that the Indian flag not only saved Indians stranded in Ukraine, but it also helped Pakistani and Turkish students fleeing the war-torn country.

An Indian student told news agency ANI that the Indian flag not only saved Indians stranded in Ukraine, but it also helped Pakistani and Turkish students fleeing the war-torn country. The Indian students who arrived in the city of Bucharest, Romania from Ukraine said that the Indian flag helped them, as well as some Pakistani and Turkish students, safely cross the various checkpoints. "The Indian flag was also being used by Turkish and Pakistani students, a student said, adding that the Indian flag had been of tremendous help to them as well. A medical student from Odesa, Ukraine, stated, "In Ukraine, we were advised that if we bring an Indian flag with us, we won't have any problems." #WATCH | "We were easily given clearance due to the Indian flag; made the flag using a curtain & colour spray...Both Indian flag & Indians were of great help to the Pakistani, Turkish students," said Indians students after their arrival in Bucharest, Romania#UkraineCrisis pic.twitter.com/vag59CcPVf — ANI (@ANI) March 2, 2022 × The Union Minister, G. Kishan Reddy, had previously recommended Indian students stranded in Ukraine's crisis-stricken country to fly the national flag on their vehicles to ensure a safe departure. Also read | Why is Ukraine such a popular choice for Indian medical students? The students also described how they purchased spray paints from the marketplaces and used them to create an Indian flag on their own. Also read | Stop criticising Indian students stuck in Ukraine; they need to be appreciated "I dashed inside the store and purchased some colour sprays and a curtain.After that, I cut the curtain and spray-painted the Indian tricolour on it "explained one of the students. They didn't have much trouble at Molodova because the Indian embassy had already made the necessary arrangements. Also read | Ukraine wipes out 'bloodthirsty' Chechen special forces sent to assassinate Zelensky The students also thanked the Indian embassy authorities for providing them with food and lodging as they awaited their flights back to India. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Indian flag helped Pakistani, Turkish students cross Ukraine border, says Indian student

The US government has closed its airspace to Russian flights. This adds the US to a number nations including Canada and several others in Europe that have shut down their airspace to Russian aircraft following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-to-authorise-30-million-barrels-of-oil-to-be-released-from-petroleum-reserve-white-house-457942" hreflang="en">Biden to authorise 30 million barrels of oil to be released from petroleum reserve: White House</a>

In his first State of the Union address,&nbsp;President Joe Biden said the United States would ban Russian planes from its airspace, and vowed Putin would pay a heavy price for his decision to invade Ukraine.

"He has no idea what's coming," he said at the House of Representatives.

"Let each of us...stand and send an unmistakable signal to Ukraine and to the world."

In the wake of reports that Biden would announce a ban on Russian aircraft using US airspace, American aviation giant Boeing said it will cease supporting Russian airlines and their operations in Moscow.

"We have suspended major operations in Moscow and temporarily closed our office in Kyiv," the Ukrainian capital, a Boeing spokesperson said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-should-be-stripped-of-un-rights-council-membership-says-blinken-457904" hreflang="en">Russia should be stripped of UN rights council membership, says Blinken</a>

"We are also suspending parts, maintenance and technical support services for Russian airlines. As the conflict continues, our teams are focused on ensuring the safety of our teammates in the region."

On Tuesday, United Airlines announced that it would temporarily suspend flights over Russian airspace, joining other major US carriers who have taken similar steps following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The White House declined to comment, but in recent days, it has had extensive talks with US airlines.

In recent days, United has continued to fly over Russian airspace to operate flights to and from India. United Parcel Service, Delta Air Lines and American Airlines all confirmed this week that their flights over Russia have been cancelled.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Western companies profiting from Russia's war

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-western-companies-profiting-from-russias-war-457954/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As per Reuters, FedEx did not respond to emails asking if it was ceasing flights over Russia.

The United airline is cancelling two flights to India on Tuesday and Wednesday as it evaluates alternate routes that don't use Russian airspace.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US government has closed its airspace to Russian flights. This adds the US to a number nations including Canada and several others in Europe that have shut down their airspace to Russian aircraft following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

The US government has closed its airspace to Russian flights. This adds the US to a number nations including Canada and several others in Europe that have shut down their airspace to Russian aircraft following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Also read | Biden to authorise 30 million barrels of oil to be released from petroleum reserve: White House In his first State of the Union address, President Joe Biden said the United States would ban Russian planes from its airspace, and vowed Putin would pay a heavy price for his decision to invade Ukraine. "He has no idea what's coming," he said at the House of Representatives. "Let each of us...stand and send an unmistakable signal to Ukraine and to the world." In the wake of reports that Biden would announce a ban on Russian aircraft using US airspace, American aviation giant Boeing said it will cease supporting Russian airlines and their operations in Moscow. "We have suspended major operations in Moscow and temporarily closed our office in Kyiv," the Ukrainian capital, a Boeing spokesperson said. Also read | Russia should be stripped of UN rights council membership, says Blinken "We are also suspending parts, maintenance and technical support services for Russian airlines. As the conflict continues, our teams are focused on ensuring the safety of our teammates in the region." On Tuesday, United Airlines announced that it would temporarily suspend flights over Russian airspace, joining other major US carriers who have taken similar steps following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The White House declined to comment, but in recent days, it has had extensive talks with US airlines. In recent days, United has continued to fly over Russian airspace to operate flights to and from India. United Parcel Service, Delta Air Lines and American Airlines all confirmed this week that their flights over Russia have been cancelled. Watch | Gravitas: Western companies profiting from Russia's war As per Reuters, FedEx did not respond to emails asking if it was ceasing flights over Russia. The United airline is cancelling two flights to India on Tuesday and Wednesday as it evaluates alternate routes that don't use Russian airspace. (With inputs from agencies)

United States closes its airspace to Russian aircraft

Russia-Ukraine conflict: First pictures of attack on Kyiv on Day 2

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Friday that his country had been left on its own to fight Russia following the Kremlin's large-scale invasion which killed 130 Ukrainians on the first day.

"We have been left alone to defend our state," Zelenisky declared in a video address to the nation made at the end of the first day of the Russian attack.&nbsp;

"Who is ready to fight alongside us? I don't see anyone. Who is ready to give Ukraine a guarantee of NATO membership? Everyone is afraid," he added.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-choice-but-to-invade-ukraine-to-defend-russia-says-vladimir-putin-456201" hreflang="en">‘No choice but to invade Ukraine to defend Russia’, says Vladimir Putin</a>

According to Zelensky, 137 Ukrainians, both military and civilian, have been killed and another 316 have been wounded since the attack began early Thursday morning.

“Sadly, today we lost 137 heroes, our citizens. Ten of them were officers. 316 people have been wounded. Defending the Zmiinyi Island, all our border guards died a heroic death. But they have not surrendered. They will all be awarded posthumously the title of the Hero of Ukraine. Let those who gave their lives for Ukraine be remembered forever.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-russia-conflict-first-pictures-455872" hreflang="en">Ukraine-Russia conflict: First pictures from ground zero</a>

Zelensky also said that Russian "sabotage groups" had entered Kyiv, and urged residents to remain vigilant and observe curfews.&nbsp;

The president added that he remained in Ukraine with his family despite Russia identifying him as "target number one".&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine conflict: Russian troops take over a key airbase located 38 KMs away from Kyiv

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-conflict-russian-troops-take-over-a-key-airbase-located-38-kms-away-from-kyiv-456235/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“I remain in the capital, my family is also in Ukraine, my children are in Ukraine. My family are not traitors, they are citizens of Ukraine. Where exactly they are I have no right to say. According to the information we have the enemy has marked me as target No 1, my family as target No 2."

"They want to destroy Ukraine politically by taking down the head of state," Zelensky said.

Earlier the Ukrainian President had said that&nbsp;there was now a "new&nbsp;iron&nbsp;curtain" between Russia and the rest of the world, like in the Cold War.

"What do we hear today? It's not just rocket explosions, combat and the roar of aircraft. This is the sound of a new&nbsp;iron&nbsp;curtain&nbsp;lowering and closing Russia off from the civilised world," he said in a video address.&nbsp;

On Thursday, Russia launched an all-out invasion of Ukraine by land, air, and sea. This is the largest military attack in Europe since World War II and confirms the worst fears of the West.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Friday that his country had been left on its own to fight Russia following the Kremlin's large-scale invasion which killed 130 Ukrainians on the first day. "We have been left alone to defend our state," Zelenisky declared in a video address to the nation made at the end of the first day of the Russian attack. "Who is ready to fight alongside us? I don't see anyone. Who is ready to give Ukraine a guarantee of NATO membership? Everyone is afraid," he added. Also read | ‘No choice but to invade Ukraine to defend Russia’, says Vladimir Putin According to Zelensky, 137 Ukrainians, both military and civilian, have been killed and another 316 have been wounded since the attack began early Thursday morning. “Sadly, today we lost 137 heroes, our citizens. Ten of them were officers. 316 people have been wounded. Defending the Zmiinyi Island, all our border guards died a heroic death. But they have not surrendered. They will all be awarded posthumously the title of the Hero of Ukraine. Let those who gave their lives for Ukraine be remembered forever.” Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: First pictures from ground zero Zelensky also said that Russian "sabotage groups" had entered Kyiv, and urged residents to remain vigilant and observe curfews. The president added that he remained in Ukraine with his family despite Russia identifying him as "target number one". Watch | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Russian troops take over a key airbase located 38 KMs away from Kyiv “I remain in the capital, my family is also in Ukraine, my children are in Ukraine. My family are not traitors, they are citizens of Ukraine. Where exactly they are I have no right to say. According to the information we have the enemy has marked me as target No 1, my family as target No 2." "They want to destroy Ukraine politically by taking down the head of state," Zelensky said. Earlier the Ukrainian President had said that there was now a "new iron curtain" between Russia and the rest of the world, like in the Cold War. "What do we hear today? It's not just rocket explosions, combat and the roar of aircraft. This is the sound of a new iron curtain lowering and closing Russia off from the civilised world," he said in a video address. On Thursday, Russia launched an all-out invasion of Ukraine by land, air, and sea. This is the largest military attack in Europe since World War II and confirms the worst fears of the West.

Ukrainian President says his country 'left alone' to fight Russia; claims enemy marked him as 'target no. 1'

A new 'refugee crisis': As Russia attacks Ukraine, thousands flee the chaos

As Russia attacks Ukraine, thousands flee the chaos

In Pics: From New York to Japan, anti-war demonstrations take over the streets

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.

Nearly 1,400 people were detained by Russian police during anti-war protests across the country after President Vladimir Putin sent troops to invade Ukraine, an independent monitor reported Thursday.

"More than 1,391 people have already been detained in 51 cities," said OVD-Info, which tracks arrests at opposition rallies. According to the monitor, more than 700 people have been detained in Moscow and over 340 in Saint Petersburg, the second-largest city.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-says-his-country-had-been-left-alone-to-fight-russia-456242" hreflang="en">Ukrainian President says his country had been 'left alone' to fight Russia</a>

In the early hours of Thursday, a number of Russian activists called on social media for people to take to the streets after Putin launched an offensive on Ukraine.

Approximately 2,000 protesters gathered near Pushkin Square in central Moscow, and up to 1,000 protesters gathered in Saint Petersburg, the former imperial capital.

Around Pushkin Square in Moscow, protesters chanted "No to war!"

"I am in shock. My relatives and loved ones live in Ukraine," Anastasia Nestulya, 23, said in Moscow.

"What can I tell them over the phone? You hang in there?" She said many were afraid to protest.

In Saint Petersburg, many struck a similar note.

"I have a feeling that the authorities have gone mad," said Svetlana Volkova, 27. The Russian protestor said that most people were unwilling to protest.&nbsp;

"People have been fooled by propaganda."

As he was dragged away by three police officers, a young man shouted: "Who are you fighting with? Arrest Putin."

In recent years, protest laws in Russia have been toughened, and demonstrations often result in mass arrests.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ukraine-russia-conflict-stephen-king-piers-morgan-other-celebs-react-455996" hreflang="en">Ukraine-Russia conflict: Stephen King, Piers Morgan &amp; other celebs react</a>

Alexei Navalny, the jailed opposition leader who used to organise Russia's largest anti-Putin protests said he was against the invasion of Ukraine on Thursday.

The independent television channel Dozhd published a video in which Navalny was heard saying, "I am against this war.".

"This war between Russia and Ukraine was unleashed to cover up the theft from Russian citizens and divert their attention from problems that exist inside the country," the 45-year-old said.&nbsp;

Russian authorities had warned anti-war sympathisers against protesting.

Investigative Committee, the government body that investigates major crimes, warned Russians, that they could face legal repercussions for joining unsanctioned protests related to "the tense foreign political situation".

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Ukrainians around the world hold rallies &amp; call to 'stop Putin now'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-conflict-ukrainians-around-the-world-hold-rallies-call-to-stop-putin-now-456231/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"One should be aware of the negative legal consequences of these actions in the form of prosecution up to criminal liability," the committee said.

On social media, these arrests have earned Russia and Putin some major scorn with some going so far as to label the Russian premier a "tyrant".

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1400 arrested across 51 locations at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/antiwar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#antiwar</a> protests in Russia. I stand with them. This is NOT Russia attacking, but a tyrant who needs to go <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NoMoreWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NoMoreWar</a>
— Darryll 🌈 (@darryllm) <a href="https://twitter.com/darryllm/status/1496941376113901569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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800 people arrested at Moscow antiwar protest. Russia is a fascist state and will hopefully someday be dissolved. <a href="https://t.co/1sAlRYkWJP">https://t.co/1sAlRYkWJP</a>
— Exiled Arizona (@exiledarizona) <a href="https://twitter.com/exiledarizona/status/1496902579497803777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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🙏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> also for those in Russia being arrested for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AntiWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AntiWar</a> protests as they stand up to Putin! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UkraineInvasion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UkraineInvasion</a> <a href="https://t.co/uRGBCcTQsD">https://t.co/uRGBCcTQsD</a>
— Miss H Pinner🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🌈🧡#EqualityForAll (@hazelmpinner) <a href="https://twitter.com/hazelmpinner/status/1496975549805506562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Modern realities of Putin's power. 
6 cops detain one man who took to the streets of his country to protest against the war.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Moscow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Moscow</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/protest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#protest</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AntiWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AntiWar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AntiWarProtest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AntiWarProtest</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kiev?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kiev</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kyiv?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kyiv</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/subwaystation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#subwaystation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaInvadedUkraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaInvadedUkraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/russianinvasion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#russianinvasion</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UkraineRussiaConflict?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UkraineRussiaConflict</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Putin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Putin</a> <a href="https://t.co/UnEWkWyEwJ">pic.twitter.com/UnEWkWyEwJ</a>
— Chaudhary Parvez (@ChaudharyParvez) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChaudharyParvez/status/1497032414366863360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Many have come out in support of the protestors

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To protest in Russia against the Russian government is the benchmark for all of us. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/moscow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#moscow</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StPetersburg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StPetersburg</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/protest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#protest</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/antiwar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#antiwar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a>
— Sophie Walker (@SophieRunning) <a href="https://twitter.com/SophieRunning/status/1496977130999234562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/antiwar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#antiwar</a> protest in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> 
The police arrests the protestors. One of them: "Arrest Putin, not me" :) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UkraineRussiaConflict?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UkraineRussiaConflict</a> <a href="https://t.co/kW3Le29Twa">pic.twitter.com/kW3Le29Twa</a>
— Tatevik Hovhannisyan (@tatevik_arm) <a href="https://twitter.com/tatevik_arm/status/1496962877743325187?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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This. 
This is a freedom convoy. This is what it looks like to stand up to a dictator. 
 
Not the privileged adult temper tantrum/ street party/ bender drenched in fragility that terrorized Ottawa for 3+ weeks.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AntiWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AntiWar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Protest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Protest</a> <a href="https://t.co/dk00b3Ky1q">https://t.co/dk00b3Ky1q</a>
— Minka Singh (@minkasingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/minkasingh/status/1497029009464516612?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Nearly 1,400 people were detained by Russian police during anti-war protests across the country after President Vladimir Putin sent troops to invade Ukraine, an independent monitor reported Thursday. "More than 1,391 people have already been detained in 51 cities," said OVD-Info, which tracks arrests at opposition rallies. According to the monitor, more than 700 people have been detained in Moscow and over 340 in Saint Petersburg, the second-largest city. Also read | Ukrainian President says his country had been 'left alone' to fight Russia In the early hours of Thursday, a number of Russian activists called on social media for people to take to the streets after Putin launched an offensive on Ukraine. Approximately 2,000 protesters gathered near Pushkin Square in central Moscow, and up to 1,000 protesters gathered in Saint Petersburg, the former imperial capital. Around Pushkin Square in Moscow, protesters chanted "No to war!" "I am in shock. My relatives and loved ones live in Ukraine," Anastasia Nestulya, 23, said in Moscow. "What can I tell them over the phone? You hang in there?" She said many were afraid to protest. In Saint Petersburg, many struck a similar note. "I have a feeling that the authorities have gone mad," said Svetlana Volkova, 27. The Russian protestor said that most people were unwilling to protest. "People have been fooled by propaganda." As he was dragged away by three police officers, a young man shouted: "Who are you fighting with? Arrest Putin." In recent years, protest laws in Russia have been toughened, and demonstrations often result in mass arrests. Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: Stephen King, Piers Morgan & other celebs react Alexei Navalny, the jailed opposition leader who used to organise Russia's largest anti-Putin protests said he was against the invasion of Ukraine on Thursday. The independent television channel Dozhd published a video in which Navalny was heard saying, "I am against this war.". "This war between Russia and Ukraine was unleashed to cover up the theft from Russian citizens and divert their attention from problems that exist inside the country," the 45-year-old said. Russian authorities had warned anti-war sympathisers against protesting. Investigative Committee, the government body that investigates major crimes, warned Russians, that they could face legal repercussions for joining unsanctioned protests related to "the tense foreign political situation". Watch | Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Ukrainians around the world hold rallies & call to 'stop Putin now' "One should be aware of the negative legal consequences of these actions in the form of prosecution up to criminal liability," the committee said. On social media, these arrests have earned Russia and Putin some major scorn with some going so far as to label the Russian premier a "tyrant". 1400 arrested across 51 locations at #antiwar protests in Russia. I stand with them. This is NOT Russia attacking, but a tyrant who needs to go #NoMoreWar — Darryll 🌈 (@darryllm) February 24, 2022 × 800 people arrested at Moscow antiwar protest. Russia is a fascist state and will hopefully someday be dissolved. https://t.co/1sAlRYkWJP — Exiled Arizona (@exiledarizona) February 24, 2022 × 🙏 #Ukraine also for those in Russia being arrested for #AntiWar protests as they stand up to Putin! #UkraineInvasion https://t.co/uRGBCcTQsD — Miss H Pinner🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🌈🧡#EqualityForAll (@hazelmpinner) February 24, 2022 × Modern realities of Putin's power. 6 cops detain one man who took to the streets of his country to protest against the war.#Russia #Ukraine #Moscow #protest #AntiWar #AntiWarProtest #Kiev #Kyiv #subwaystation #RussiaInvadedUkraine #russianinvasion #UkraineRussiaConflict #Putin pic.twitter.com/UnEWkWyEwJ — Chaudhary Parvez (@ChaudharyParvez) February 25, 2022 × Many have come out in support of the protestors To protest in Russia against the Russian government is the benchmark for all of us. #moscow #StPetersburg #protest #antiwar #Ukraine — Sophie Walker (@SophieRunning) February 24, 2022 × #antiwar protest in #Russia The police arrests the protestors. One of them: "Arrest Putin, not me" :) #UkraineRussiaConflict pic.twitter.com/kW3Le29Twa — Tatevik Hovhannisyan (@tatevik_arm) February 24, 2022 × This. This is a freedom convoy. This is what it looks like to stand up to a dictator. Not the privileged adult temper tantrum/ street party/ bender drenched in fragility that terrorized Ottawa for 3+ weeks.#Ukraine #AntiWar #Protest https://t.co/dk00b3Ky1q — Minka Singh (@minkasingh) February 25, 2022 × (With inputs from agencies)

In Russia, police arrest thousands participating in 'anti-war' protests, threaten with 'legal repercussions'

"The world will hold Russia accountable" for its attack against Ukraine, US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday. He warned the attack will cause "catastrophic loss of life."

Following the announcement of the start of military operations in Ukraine by Russian President Vladimir Putin, Biden said he would address the US public on Thursday to speak on the 'consequences' for Russia. He described the attack as "unprovoked and unjustified".

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-updates-russia-ukraine-crisis-air-raid-siren-rings-out-in-kyiv-after-explosions-455211">Live updates: Russia-Ukraine crisis: Air raid siren rings out in Kyiv after explosions</a></h2>

"Russia alone is responsible for the death and destruction this attack will bring, and the United States and its Allies and partners will respond in a united and decisive way. The world will hold Russia accountable," he said.

Biden said his prayers were with the people of Ukraine "as they suffer an unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russian military forces", adding that Putin had chosen a premeditated war that would bring a catastrophic loss of life and human suffering.

In a last-minute plea to Putin, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed to stop the war "in the name of humanity", after the Russian leader announced the military operation.

"President Putin, in the name of humanity bring your troops back to Russia," he said after an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council over the crisis.&nbsp;

"In the name of humanity do not allow to start in Europe what could be the worst war since the beginning of the century," he said, adding the conflict "must stop now."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-russia-conflict-first-pictures-455872">Ukraine-Russia conflict: First pictures</a>

Condemning the "reckless and unprovoked attack" on Ukraine, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said NATO allies would meet to tackle the consequences of Moscow's "aggressive actions".

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described the Russian military operation in Ukraine as "a glaring violation" of international law on a "dark day" for Europe.

"Germany condemns in the strongest possible terms this unscrupulous act by President Putin. Our solidarity goes out to Ukraine and its people," he added in a statement.

Scholz, whose country currently holds the presidency of the G7 forum, said it was "a terrible day for Ukraine".

He urged Moscow to stop its military operation "immediately".

Watch |&nbsp;Emergency UNSC meeting on Ukraine: Security Council to vote on a resolution condemning Russia

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/emergency-unsc-meeting-on-ukraine-security-council-to-vote-on-a-resolution-condemning-russia-455868/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Boris Johnson, the British Prime Minister, also condemned the "horrific events in Ukraine", saying Russian President Vladimir Putin "has chosen a path of bloodshed and destruction by launching this unprovoked attack".

"The UK and our allies will respond decisively," he tweeted, adding he had spoken to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Even as world leaders condemn this alleged "attack," Russia's ambassador to the UN said in an emergency meeting of the Security Council late Wednesday that Moscow's military operation against Ukraine is only targeted at&nbsp;"the junta" in power in Kyiv.

"I wanted to say in conclusion that we aren't being aggressive against the Ukrainian people but against the junta that is in power in Kiyv," said Vassily Nebenzia.

"These are among the darkest hours of Europe since the Second World War, said European Commission foreign policy chief Josep Borrell

"The EU will respond in the strongest possible terms and agree on the harshest package of sanctions we have ever implemented," he added.

"We have a land war in Europe that we thought was only to find in history books. It is a flagrant breach of international law. For Russia, this attack will have severe political and economic consequences," said Germany's Economy Minister Robert Habeck.

China said it was closely monitoring the situation.

"China is closely monitoring the latest situation. We call on all sides to exercise restraint to prevent the situation from getting out of control," said Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying.

(With inputs from agencies)

"The world will hold Russia accountable" for its attack against Ukraine, US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday. He warned the attack will cause "catastrophic loss of life.

"The world will hold Russia accountable" for its attack against Ukraine, US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday. He warned the attack will cause "catastrophic loss of life." Following the announcement of the start of military operations in Ukraine by Russian President Vladimir Putin, Biden said he would address the US public on Thursday to speak on the 'consequences' for Russia. He described the attack as "unprovoked and unjustified". Live updates: Russia-Ukraine crisis: Air raid siren rings out in Kyiv after explosions "Russia alone is responsible for the death and destruction this attack will bring, and the United States and its Allies and partners will respond in a united and decisive way. The world will hold Russia accountable," he said. Biden said his prayers were with the people of Ukraine "as they suffer an unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russian military forces", adding that Putin had chosen a premeditated war that would bring a catastrophic loss of life and human suffering. In a last-minute plea to Putin, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed to stop the war "in the name of humanity", after the Russian leader announced the military operation. "President Putin, in the name of humanity bring your troops back to Russia," he said after an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council over the crisis. "In the name of humanity do not allow to start in Europe what could be the worst war since the beginning of the century," he said, adding the conflict "must stop now." Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: First pictures Condemning the "reckless and unprovoked attack" on Ukraine, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said NATO allies would meet to tackle the consequences of Moscow's "aggressive actions". German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described the Russian military operation in Ukraine as "a glaring violation" of international law on a "dark day" for Europe. "Germany condemns in the strongest possible terms this unscrupulous act by President Putin. Our solidarity goes out to Ukraine and its people," he added in a statement. Scholz, whose country currently holds the presidency of the G7 forum, said it was "a terrible day for Ukraine". He urged Moscow to stop its military operation "immediately". Watch | Emergency UNSC meeting on Ukraine: Security Council to vote on a resolution condemning Russia Boris Johnson, the British Prime Minister, also condemned the "horrific events in Ukraine", saying Russian President Vladimir Putin "has chosen a path of bloodshed and destruction by launching this unprovoked attack". "The UK and our allies will respond decisively," he tweeted, adding he had spoken to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky. Even as world leaders condemn this alleged "attack," Russia's ambassador to the UN said in an emergency meeting of the Security Council late Wednesday that Moscow's military operation against Ukraine is only targeted at "the junta" in power in Kyiv. "I wanted to say in conclusion that we aren't being aggressive against the Ukrainian people but against the junta that is in power in Kiyv," said Vassily Nebenzia. "These are among the darkest hours of Europe since the Second World War, said European Commission foreign policy chief Josep Borrell "The EU will respond in the strongest possible terms and agree on the harshest package of sanctions we have ever implemented," he added. "We have a land war in Europe that we thought was only to find in history books. It is a flagrant breach of international law. For Russia, this attack will have severe political and economic consequences," said Germany's Economy Minister Robert Habeck. China said it was closely monitoring the situation. "China is closely monitoring the latest situation. We call on all sides to exercise restraint to prevent the situation from getting out of control," said Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying. (With inputs from agencies)

'In the name of humanity': UN Chief's plea, Biden's warning as leaders react to Russia's Ukraine move

Ukraine-Russia conflict: First pictures from ground zero

While Ukraine bears Russian missile strikes, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin as scheduled.

Amid the ongoing crisis at the Ukraine-Russia border, Khan arrived in Moscow late on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-the-name-of-humanity-un-chiefs-plea-bidens-warning-and-more-leaders-react-to-russian-aggressions-455883">'In the name of humanity': UN Chief's plea, Biden's warning and more; leaders react to Russian aggressions</a>

During his ill-timed visit to Russia, the first such trip by a Pakistani PM in 23 years Imran Khan aims to push for the construction of a long-delayed, multibillion-dollar gas pipeline in collaboration with Russian companies.

Vladimir Putin, the Russian&nbsp;premier, will meet with Khan during this visit. The two men are expected to discuss issues regarding economic cooperation.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Prime Minister Imran Khan’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and his entire visit are GOING Ahead as Planned and CONTRARY to what AP has reported, the Meeting is On, per sources. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMIKinRussia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMIKinRussia</a>
— Anas Mallick (@AnasMallick) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnasMallick/status/1496750027548602369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The Pakistani&nbsp;Federal Minister for Information &amp; Broadcasting also tweeted that "Speculations about PM&nbsp; 
@ImranKhanPTI&nbsp;&nbsp;visit are misplaced. The Visit is proceeding and PM will return to Pakistan tonight as per schedule"

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Speculations about PM <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> visit are misplaced. The Visit is proceeding and PM will return to Pakistan tonight as per schedule
— Ch Fawad Hussain (@fawadchaudhry) <a href="https://twitter.com/fawadchaudhry/status/1496766900834951169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Pakistani media reported earlier that Moscow and Islamabad were in talks regarding the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin this year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-united-states-watches-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-excited-to-meet-vladimir-putin-in-moscow-455824">As United States watches, Pakistan PM Imran Khan 'excited' to meet Vladimir Putin in Moscow</a>

According to a Pakistani newspaper, Putin's visit has been discussed for the past two years, but couldn't materialize due to a variety of factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

Following Russian President Vladimir Putin's announcement&nbsp;of the launch of a military operation against Ukraine on Thursday, several reports emerged that the Russian forces have fired missiles at several cities in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan PM Imran Khan arrives in Moscow to hold talks amid Ukraine crisis

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-arrives-in-moscow-to-hold-talks-amid-ukraine-crisis-455818/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

News agencies also stated that Russia has landed troops on its coast on Thursday, officials and media said, after President Putin authorised what he called a special military operation in the east.&nbsp;

World leaders have condemned the attack, warning&nbsp;that&nbsp;"the world will hold Russia accountable" for its attack against Ukraine, and the&nbsp;"catastrophic loss of life" this attack will cause.

(With inputs from agencies)

While Ukraine bears Russian missile strikes, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin as scheduled. Amid the ongoing crisis at the Ukraine-Russia border, Khan arrived in Moscow late on Wednesday.

While Ukraine bears Russian missile strikes, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin as scheduled. Amid the ongoing crisis at the Ukraine-Russia border, Khan arrived in Moscow late on Wednesday. Also read | 'In the name of humanity': UN Chief's plea, Biden's warning and more; leaders react to Russian aggressions During his ill-timed visit to Russia, the first such trip by a Pakistani PM in 23 years Imran Khan aims to push for the construction of a long-delayed, multibillion-dollar gas pipeline in collaboration with Russian companies. Vladimir Putin, the Russian premier, will meet with Khan during this visit. The two men are expected to discuss issues regarding economic cooperation. Prime Minister Imran Khan’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and his entire visit are GOING Ahead as Planned and CONTRARY to what AP has reported, the Meeting is On, per sources. #Pakistan #Russia #PMIKinRussia — Anas Mallick (@AnasMallick) February 24, 2022 × The Pakistani Federal Minister for Information & Broadcasting also tweeted that "Speculations about PM @ImranKhanPTI visit are misplaced. The Visit is proceeding and PM will return to Pakistan tonight as per schedule" Speculations about PM @ImranKhanPTI visit are misplaced. The Visit is proceeding and PM will return to Pakistan tonight as per schedule — Ch Fawad Hussain (@fawadchaudhry) February 24, 2022 × Pakistani media reported earlier that Moscow and Islamabad were in talks regarding the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin this year. Also read | As United States watches, Pakistan PM Imran Khan 'excited' to meet Vladimir Putin in Moscow According to a Pakistani newspaper, Putin's visit has been discussed for the past two years, but couldn't materialize due to a variety of factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Following Russian President Vladimir Putin's announcement of the launch of a military operation against Ukraine on Thursday, several reports emerged that the Russian forces have fired missiles at several cities in Ukraine. Watch | Pakistan PM Imran Khan arrives in Moscow to hold talks amid Ukraine crisis News agencies also stated that Russia has landed troops on its coast on Thursday, officials and media said, after President Putin authorised what he called a special military operation in the east. World leaders have condemned the attack, warning that "the world will hold Russia accountable" for its attack against Ukraine, and the "catastrophic loss of life" this attack will cause. (With inputs from agencies)

Even amid Russian 'military operation' on Ukraine, Imran Khan-Vladimir Putin meet to go ahead as planned

After Russia fired missiles at several Ukrainian cities and landed troops on the south coast, the ruble plunged to a record low on Thursday, while the euro plunged to a multi-year low against the Swiss franc.

In addition, riskier commodity-linked currencies like the Australian dollar also tanked as Ukraine said Russia had launched a full-scale invasion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-the-name-of-humanity-un-chiefs-plea-bidens-warning-and-more-leaders-react-to-russian-aggressions-455883">'In the name of humanity': UN Chief's plea, Biden's warning and more; leaders react to Russian aggressions</a>

The dollar rose nine per cent against the ruble, which has been battered lately in the wake of worries about the effects of the sanctions on the Russian economy, while the Moscow Stock Exchange plunged almost 14 per cent after trading was suspended earlier in the day. The country's central bank said it was intervening to "stabilise the situation".

"To stabilise the situation on the financial market, the Bank of Russia has decided to start interventions in the foreign exchange market," the central bank said in a statement, adding that it and other financial institutions: "have clear action plans for any scenario."

While explosions were reported in the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv and gunfire was heard near Kyiv's main airport, safe havens such as the yen and dollar were in demand.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-russia-conflict-first-pictures-455872">Ukraine-Russia conflict: First pictures</a>

With a fall of 0.84 per cent to $1.1209, the euro reached its lowest level since January 31.

Euro depreciated as much as 1.28 per cent versus other traditional haven currencies, hitting a nearly one-month low of 128.37 yen and as much as 0.84 per cent versus the Swiss franc, which reached 1.0292, the weakest since May 2015.

There was a 0.90 per cent drop in the Australian dollar to $0.7167, while the New Zealand dollar declined by 1.00 per cent to $0.6706.

"The situation certainly looks like it's going to get worse before it gets better, and that means the commodity currencies can weaken," said Joseph Capurso, a strategist at Commonwealth Bank of Australia.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia: Military infrastructure being disabled in Ukraine, no threat to Ukrainian civilians

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-military-infrastructure-being-disabled-in-ukraine-no-threat-to-ukrainian-civilians-455924/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"If things get real bad," Aussie could test $0.70, and if the euro is poised to fall "quite a bit more," he said.

Sterling was a bit more resilient, declining 0.41 per cent to $1.3490, the lowest since February 15.

For the first time since January 31, the US dollar index, which measures the greenback against six major peers, rose as much as 0.60 per cent to 96.762.

Besides its status as a safe haven, the dollar has also been boosted by expectations that the Federal Reserve will begin raising rates next month, although the rising risk related to Ukraine forced traders to lower their expectations from 25 per cent earlier in the day to 16 per cent.

(With inputs from agencies)

After Russia fired missiles at several Ukrainian cities and landed troops on the south coast, the ruble plunged to a record low on Thursday, while the euro plunged to a multi-year low against the Swiss franc.

After Russia fired missiles at several Ukrainian cities and landed troops on the south coast, the ruble plunged to a record low on Thursday, while the euro plunged to a multi-year low against the Swiss franc. In addition, riskier commodity-linked currencies like the Australian dollar also tanked as Ukraine said Russia had launched a full-scale invasion. Also read | 'In the name of humanity': UN Chief's plea, Biden's warning and more; leaders react to Russian aggressions The dollar rose nine per cent against the ruble, which has been battered lately in the wake of worries about the effects of the sanctions on the Russian economy, while the Moscow Stock Exchange plunged almost 14 per cent after trading was suspended earlier in the day. The country's central bank said it was intervening to "stabilise the situation". "To stabilise the situation on the financial market, the Bank of Russia has decided to start interventions in the foreign exchange market," the central bank said in a statement, adding that it and other financial institutions: "have clear action plans for any scenario." While explosions were reported in the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv and gunfire was heard near Kyiv's main airport, safe havens such as the yen and dollar were in demand. Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: First pictures With a fall of 0.84 per cent to $1.1209, the euro reached its lowest level since January 31. Euro depreciated as much as 1.28 per cent versus other traditional haven currencies, hitting a nearly one-month low of 128.37 yen and as much as 0.84 per cent versus the Swiss franc, which reached 1.0292, the weakest since May 2015. There was a 0.90 per cent drop in the Australian dollar to $0.7167, while the New Zealand dollar declined by 1.00 per cent to $0.6706. "The situation certainly looks like it's going to get worse before it gets better, and that means the commodity currencies can weaken," said Joseph Capurso, a strategist at Commonwealth Bank of Australia. Watch | Russia: Military infrastructure being disabled in Ukraine, no threat to Ukrainian civilians "If things get real bad," Aussie could test $0.70, and if the euro is poised to fall "quite a bit more," he said. Sterling was a bit more resilient, declining 0.41 per cent to $1.3490, the lowest since February 15. For the first time since January 31, the US dollar index, which measures the greenback against six major peers, rose as much as 0.60 per cent to 96.762. Besides its status as a safe haven, the dollar has also been boosted by expectations that the Federal Reserve will begin raising rates next month, although the rising risk related to Ukraine forced traders to lower their expectations from 25 per cent earlier in the day to 16 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

As Russia fires missiles at Ukraine, its currency ruble falls 9% against dollar