<p>Russia is executing soldiers who do not follow orders related to the war with Ukraine, the White House said on Thursday (Oct 26) adding that Moscow’s forces are suffering “significant” losses of armour and personnel. Meanwhile, the United States has also announced a new $150 million military assistance package for Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Is Russia ‘executing soldiers’?</strong></h2>

<p>“We have information that the Russian military has been actually executing soldiers who are refusing to follow orders,” National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters during a briefing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “We also have information that Russian commanders are threatening to execute entire units if they seek to retreat from Ukrainian artillery fire.”</p>

<p>However, the White House official did not give any further details about the alleged executions or how the United States had obtained the information.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as Russia in the past weeks has ramped up attacks in the Ukrainian town of Avdiivka in the eastern Donetsk region and the northeastern city of Kupyansk, in what is being viewed as a new offensive by the Russian forces in a bid to move the front line forward before winter.</p>

<p><strong>&nbsp;ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-visits-military-hq-in-southern-russia-moscow-ramps-up-attacks-in-avdiivka-says-ukraine-649312">Putin visits military HQ in southern Russia; Moscow ramps up attacks in Avdiivka, says Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>The White House official also said that Moscow has witnessed “significant losses” in the new offensive, losing at least 125 armoured vehicles and &nbsp;“thousands” of casualties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The Russian military appears to be using what we would call human wave tactics,” said Kirby, adding that it is “unsurprising that Russian forces are suffering from poor morale,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by the New York Times, back in August, citing US officials said the number of Ukrainian and Russian troops killed or wounded since the war in Ukraine that began in February 2022 was nearing 500,000.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the officials warned that the number is strictly an estimate due to the lack of official figures.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>US announces new military aid package for Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Washington, on Thursday also announced a new military aid package for Ukraine which&nbsp;includes anti-tank weapons, air defence missiles, night vision devices, demolition munitions and cold weather gear. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Washington is wading deeper into the conflict and making a mistake by providing Kyiv with the missiles which, according to him, would not alter the battlefield situation and could be repelled.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-launches-missile-attack-on-postal-centre-in-kharkiv-kills-six-649843">Russia launches missile attack on postal centre in Kharkiv, six killed</a></strong></p>

<p>During the briefing, Kirby also reiterated that as long as Russia’s “brutal assault” on Ukraine continues, the US will keep helping the Ukrainian people in their self-defence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Pentagon, the latest package “utilizes assistance previously authorized for Ukraine during prior fiscal years.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The Biden administration calls on Congress to meet its commitment to the people of Ukraine by passing additional funding to ensure Ukraine continues to have what it needs to defend itself against Russia's brutal war of choice,” said the Pentagon, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as hardline Republicans have put future assistance for Kyiv in doubt and the government is relying on previously approved aid.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

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Russia is executing soldiers who do not follow orders related to the war with Ukraine, the White House said on Thursday (Oct 26) adding that Moscow’s forces are suffering “significant” losses of armour and personnel.

Russia is executing soldiers who do not follow orders related to the war with Ukraine, the White House said on Thursday (Oct 26) adding that Moscow’s forces are suffering “significant” losses of armour and personnel. Meanwhile, the United States has also announced a new $150 million military assistance package for Ukraine. Is Russia ‘executing soldiers’? “We have information that the Russian military has been actually executing soldiers who are refusing to follow orders,” National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters during a briefing. He added, “We also have information that Russian commanders are threatening to execute entire units if they seek to retreat from Ukrainian artillery fire.” However, the White House official did not give any further details about the alleged executions or how the United States had obtained the information. This comes as Russia in the past weeks has ramped up attacks in the Ukrainian town of Avdiivka in the eastern Donetsk region and the northeastern city of Kupyansk, in what is being viewed as a new offensive by the Russian forces in a bid to move the front line forward before winter. ALSO READ | Putin visits military HQ in southern Russia; Moscow ramps up attacks in Avdiivka, says Ukraine The White House official also said that Moscow has witnessed “significant losses” in the new offensive, losing at least 125 armoured vehicles and “thousands” of casualties. “The Russian military appears to be using what we would call human wave tactics,” said Kirby, adding that it is “unsurprising that Russian forces are suffering from poor morale,” he added. A report by the New York Times, back in August, citing US officials said the number of Ukrainian and Russian troops killed or wounded since the war in Ukraine that began in February 2022 was nearing 500,000. However, the officials warned that the number is strictly an estimate due to the lack of official figures. US announces new military aid package for Ukraine Washington, on Thursday also announced a new military aid package for Ukraine which includes anti-tank weapons, air defence missiles, night vision devices, demolition munitions and cold weather gear. Last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Washington is wading deeper into the conflict and making a mistake by providing Kyiv with the missiles which, according to him, would not alter the battlefield situation and could be repelled. ALSO READ | Russia launches missile attack on postal centre in Kharkiv, six killed During the briefing, Kirby also reiterated that as long as Russia’s “brutal assault” on Ukraine continues, the US will keep helping the Ukrainian people in their self-defence. According to the Pentagon, the latest package “utilizes assistance previously authorized for Ukraine during prior fiscal years.” “The Biden administration calls on Congress to meet its commitment to the people of Ukraine by passing additional funding to ensure Ukraine continues to have what it needs to defend itself against Russia's brutal war of choice,” said the Pentagon, in a statement. This comes as hardline Republicans have put future assistance for Kyiv in doubt and the government is relying on previously approved aid. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia is ‘executing soldiers’ who are refusing orders in Ukraine, says White House

<p>Ukrainian officials stated that six people were killed and 14 others were injured in a Russian missile attack which was carried out on a postal distribution centre in Kharkiv, the war-devastated northeastern Ukrainian city, said officials from Ukraine.<br />
<br />
"Russian missiles hit the Nova Poshta centre - an ordinary civilian object," stated Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenksy, on the Telegram messaging app.<br />
<br />
A video was posted by him which showed a building with windows in ruins after the blast and the construction material&nbsp;strewn around, with red trucks, which had Nova Poshta written on them in Ukrainian, standing in front of it.<br />
<br />
Governor of the Kharkiv region, which has the city of Kharkiv as its administrative centre, Oleh Synehubov said that many injured people were admitted to hospital in serious condition.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-visits-military-hq-in-southern-russia-moscow-ramps-up-attacks-in-avdiivka-says-ukraine-649312">Putin visits military HQ in southern Russia; Moscow ramps up attacks in Avdiivka, says Ukraine</a></p>

<p>The people killed and injured were working for the postal centre, said Synehubov, taking to Telegram. The police stated that the workers did not get enough time to hide in the shelter, because the siren went off a second before the impact.<br />
<br />
The two sides have always denied targeting civilians in the war which started with Russia's&nbsp; invasion of its neighbour in February 2022.<br />
<br />
The second-largest city of Ukraine, Kharkiv, suffered massive devastation in the early days when Russia carried out a full-scale invasion.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia faces resistance in Avdiivka</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Russian forces have been facing resistance by Ukraine further south in the east as Moscow tried to gain control over more territories amid a slow counteroffensive of Kyiv, which has continued for months.<br />
<br />
Moscow's&nbsp;drive to capture Avdiivka faced fierce resistance on Saturday, said Ukraine's military, as the fortifications were bolstered by defences. "The enemy is becoming more active, but is incurring heavy losses," said General Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, commander of Ukraine's troops in the south, on Telegram.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;How has Ukraine war impacted Russia's trade? | Trade booms between Russia &amp; China | WION</strong></p>

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<p><br />
The defence ministry of Russia, in its evening report, did not mention anything about Avdiivka but stated about strikes carried out on areas outside Bakhmut, which was seized by the forces of Moscow in May after months of battle.<br />
<br />
Avdiivka, which is a watchword for resistance in Ukraine, has faced enemy attacks for months. In the video footage, buildings can be seen in ruins and streets are barely distinguishable.<br />
<br />
"We have concrete fortifications ... outside the city," said military analyst Pavel Norozhnyi, while speaking on national television. "(Russian forces) need heavy artillery and anti-tank missiles to destroy every stronghold,” he added.</p>

<p><em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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Ukrainian officials stated that six people were killed and 14 others were injured in a Russian missile attack which was carried out on a postal distribution centre in Kharkiv, the war-devastated northeastern Ukrainian city, said officials from Ukraine.

Ukrainian officials stated that six people were killed and 14 others were injured in a Russian missile attack which was carried out on a postal distribution centre in Kharkiv, the war-devastated northeastern Ukrainian city, said officials from Ukraine. "Russian missiles hit the Nova Poshta centre - an ordinary civilian object," stated Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenksy, on the Telegram messaging app. A video was posted by him which showed a building with windows in ruins after the blast and the construction material strewn around, with red trucks, which had Nova Poshta written on them in Ukrainian, standing in front of it. Governor of the Kharkiv region, which has the city of Kharkiv as its administrative centre, Oleh Synehubov said that many injured people were admitted to hospital in serious condition. ALSO READ | Putin visits military HQ in southern Russia; Moscow ramps up attacks in Avdiivka, says Ukraine The people killed and injured were working for the postal centre, said Synehubov, taking to Telegram. The police stated that the workers did not get enough time to hide in the shelter, because the siren went off a second before the impact. The two sides have always denied targeting civilians in the war which started with Russia's invasion of its neighbour in February 2022. The second-largest city of Ukraine, Kharkiv, suffered massive devastation in the early days when Russia carried out a full-scale invasion. Russia faces resistance in Avdiivka Meanwhile, Russian forces have been facing resistance by Ukraine further south in the east as Moscow tried to gain control over more territories amid a slow counteroffensive of Kyiv, which has continued for months. Moscow's drive to capture Avdiivka faced fierce resistance on Saturday, said Ukraine's military, as the fortifications were bolstered by defences. "The enemy is becoming more active, but is incurring heavy losses," said General Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, commander of Ukraine's troops in the south, on Telegram. Watch | How has Ukraine war impacted Russia's trade? | Trade booms between Russia & China | WION The defence ministry of Russia, in its evening report, did not mention anything about Avdiivka but stated about strikes carried out on areas outside Bakhmut, which was seized by the forces of Moscow in May after months of battle. Avdiivka, which is a watchword for resistance in Ukraine, has faced enemy attacks for months. In the video footage, buildings can be seen in ruins and streets are barely distinguishable. "We have concrete fortifications ... outside the city," said military analyst Pavel Norozhnyi, while speaking on national television. "(Russian forces) need heavy artillery and anti-tank missiles to destroy every stronghold,” he added. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia launches missile attack on postal centre in Kharkiv, six killed

<p>President Vladimir Putin issued a stark warning to the West as he said that Russia could resume nuclear testing for the first time in over three decades and might withdraw its ratification of a landmark nuclear test ban treaty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From Indian leadership to Canadian Nazi row, Putin discussed a range of issues as he addressed a meeting of the Valdai Discussion Club.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the address, the Russian leader Putin mentioned the Burevestnik as he said that Moscow had successfully tested a nuclear-powered and nuclear-capable cruise missile. He said that the capabilities of the Burevestnik are unmatched.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said, "The last successful test of Burevestnik, a global-range cruise missile with a nuclear propulsion system, has been carried out."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is Burevestnik and why does it matter?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Burevestnik is a ground-launched and low-flying cruise missile that is not only capable of carrying a nuclear warhead but is also nuclear-powered. Its name translates as "storm petrel". Putin first revealed the project in March 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia has maintained secrecy&nbsp;over&nbsp;Burevestnik but the West has gathered some information as reports say&nbsp;that its nuclear propulsion gives the missile a much longer range than traditional turbojet or turbofan engines which are limited by how much fuel they can carry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Burevestnik would have a notional range of up to 20,000km, so could be based anywhere in Russia and strike targets in the United States, The International Institute for Strategic Studies said, quoting a specialist Russian military journal in 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-alleges-brutal-russian-crime-in-ukraine-after-at-least-48-killed-in-strike-642980">Zelensky alleges 'brutal Russian crime' in Ukraine after at least 49 killed in strike</a>&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The journal also said the notional altitude of the missile was just 50-100 metres, much lower than a conventionally powered cruise missile, which would make it harder for air-defence radar to detect.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A 2020 report by the United States Air Force's National Air and Space Intelligence Center said that if Russia successfully brought the Burevestnik into service, it would give Moscow a "unique weapon with intercontinental-range capability".&nbsp;</p>

<p>For Russia, the development of the missile's nuclear propulsion unit has been a huge technical challenge, involving a number of test failures.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2019, at least five Russian nuclear specialists were killed in an explosion and radiation discharge during a test in the White Sea, and US intelligence agencies assumed it was part of a Burevestnik test.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>When will it be expected to enter service?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Western experts long questioned whether the missile would actually enter service. The Nuclear Threat Initiative, a non-profit security organisation, estimated in 2019 that deployment could be a decade away.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Nuclear Threat Initiative, Burevestnik's nuclear propulsion could enable it to stay aloft for days, if needed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In operation, the Burevestnik would carry a nuclear warhead (or warheads), circle the globe at low altitude, avoid missile defences, and dodge terrain; and drop the warhead(s) at a difficult-to-predict location (or locations)," it said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-set-up-naval-base-in-breakaway-georgian-region-of-abkhazia-642924">Russia to set up naval base in breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Russia's stance on nuclear testing</strong></h2>

<p>Putin said that there is a possibility that Russia could resume nuclear testing&nbsp;and might withdraw its ratification of a landmark nuclear test ban treaty.</p>

<p>The United Nations&nbsp;said in a report that in the five decades between 1945 and 1996, over 2,000 nuclear tests were carried out — 1,032 of them by the US, 715 of them by the Soviet Union, and the rest by other countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But concerns mounted, over the impact of nuclear tests on human health and the environment, so the&nbsp;Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) was signed in 1996.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on 10 Sep in 1996, but has not entered into force, as some nations have not ratified the treaty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is a multilateral treaty that banned nuclear weapons test explosions and any other nuclear explosions, for both civilian and military purposes, in all environments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was signed by Russia in 1996 and ratified in 2000. The US signed the treaty in 1996 but has not ratified it, which was pointed out by Putin as he said that the Russian parliament, which is completely loyal to him, might want to withdraw ratification too.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am not ready to say whether we really need to conduct tests or not, but it is possible theoretically to behave in the same way as the United States," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A year after launching a "special military operation" in Ukraine, the Russian leader said in February 2023 that if the US resumed nuclear testing, Russia would also do it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Vladimir Putin issues fresh nuclear threat amid war in Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>Experts said that Burevestnik and other new Russian strategic systems might complicate negotiations between Moscow and Washington over a replacement for the New START treaty, which limits the amount of nuclear weapons each side can deploy. The pact's future is uncertain, as Russia terminated its membership in February, and it is set to expire in 2026.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a warning tone, Putin said that no one in the world in their right mind would use nuclear weapons against Russia and that potential enemies knew about Moscow's nuclear arsenal.</p>

<p>In response to a question, Putin said he was not ready to declare whether or not Russia needed to resume nuclear weapons testing, saying that "theoretically we could revoke ratification" of the international nuclear test ban treaty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin did not say when the latest test took place, but the New York Times reported in October that it may have been recent, based on movements of aircraft and vehicles at a Russian base in the Arctic.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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President Vladimir Putin issued a stark warning to the West as he said that Russia could resume nuclear testing for the first time in over three decades and might withdraw its ratification of a landmark nuclear test ban treaty.

President Vladimir Putin issued a stark warning to the West as he said that Russia could resume nuclear testing for the first time in over three decades and might withdraw its ratification of a landmark nuclear test ban treaty. From Indian leadership to Canadian Nazi row, Putin discussed a range of issues as he addressed a meeting of the Valdai Discussion Club. During the address, the Russian leader Putin mentioned the Burevestnik as he said that Moscow had successfully tested a nuclear-powered and nuclear-capable cruise missile. He said that the capabilities of the Burevestnik are unmatched. Putin said, "The last successful test of Burevestnik, a global-range cruise missile with a nuclear propulsion system, has been carried out." What is Burevestnik and why does it matter? Burevestnik is a ground-launched and low-flying cruise missile that is not only capable of carrying a nuclear warhead but is also nuclear-powered. Its name translates as "storm petrel". Putin first revealed the project in March 2018. Russia has maintained secrecy over Burevestnik but the West has gathered some information as reports say that its nuclear propulsion gives the missile a much longer range than traditional turbojet or turbofan engines which are limited by how much fuel they can carry. The Burevestnik would have a notional range of up to 20,000km, so could be based anywhere in Russia and strike targets in the United States, The International Institute for Strategic Studies said, quoting a specialist Russian military journal in 2021. Also read: Zelensky alleges 'brutal Russian crime' in Ukraine after at least 49 killed in strike The journal also said the notional altitude of the missile was just 50-100 metres, much lower than a conventionally powered cruise missile, which would make it harder for air-defence radar to detect. A 2020 report by the United States Air Force's National Air and Space Intelligence Center said that if Russia successfully brought the Burevestnik into service, it would give Moscow a "unique weapon with intercontinental-range capability". For Russia, the development of the missile's nuclear propulsion unit has been a huge technical challenge, involving a number of test failures. In 2019, at least five Russian nuclear specialists were killed in an explosion and radiation discharge during a test in the White Sea, and US intelligence agencies assumed it was part of a Burevestnik test. When will it be expected to enter service? Western experts long questioned whether the missile would actually enter service. The Nuclear Threat Initiative, a non-profit security organisation, estimated in 2019 that deployment could be a decade away. According to the Nuclear Threat Initiative, Burevestnik's nuclear propulsion could enable it to stay aloft for days, if needed. "In operation, the Burevestnik would carry a nuclear warhead (or warheads), circle the globe at low altitude, avoid missile defences, and dodge terrain; and drop the warhead(s) at a difficult-to-predict location (or locations)," it said. Also read: Russia to set up naval base in breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia Russia's stance on nuclear testing Putin said that there is a possibility that Russia could resume nuclear testing and might withdraw its ratification of a landmark nuclear test ban treaty. The United Nations said in a report that in the five decades between 1945 and 1996, over 2,000 nuclear tests were carried out — 1,032 of them by the US, 715 of them by the Soviet Union, and the rest by other countries. But concerns mounted, over the impact of nuclear tests on human health and the environment, so the Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) was signed in 1996. It was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on 10 Sep in 1996, but has not entered into force, as some nations have not ratified the treaty. It is a multilateral treaty that banned nuclear weapons test explosions and any other nuclear explosions, for both civilian and military purposes, in all environments. It was signed by Russia in 1996 and ratified in 2000. The US signed the treaty in 1996 but has not ratified it, which was pointed out by Putin as he said that the Russian parliament, which is completely loyal to him, might want to withdraw ratification too. "I am not ready to say whether we really need to conduct tests or not, but it is possible theoretically to behave in the same way as the United States," he said. A year after launching a "special military operation" in Ukraine, the Russian leader said in February 2023 that if the US resumed nuclear testing, Russia would also do it. Watch: Vladimir Putin issues fresh nuclear threat amid war in Ukraine × Experts said that Burevestnik and other new Russian strategic systems might complicate negotiations between Moscow and Washington over a replacement for the New START treaty, which limits the amount of nuclear weapons each side can deploy. The pact's future is uncertain, as Russia terminated its membership in February, and it is set to expire in 2026. In a warning tone, Putin said that no one in the world in their right mind would use nuclear weapons against Russia and that potential enemies knew about Moscow's nuclear arsenal. In response to a question, Putin said he was not ready to declare whether or not Russia needed to resume nuclear weapons testing, saying that "theoretically we could revoke ratification" of the international nuclear test ban treaty. Putin did not say when the latest test took place, but the New York Times reported in October that it may have been recent, based on movements of aircraft and vehicles at a Russian base in the Arctic. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | Putin's 'unique weapon' Burevestnik with intercontinental range could hit US

<p>Russia has consented to reunite four Ukrainian kids with their families, following an agreement facilitated by Qatar.</p>

<p>These children&nbsp;are in the age group of&nbsp;two to 17 years old. This repatriation initiative represents the initial phase of a trial programme aimed at bringing back a larger number of the many children who were reportedly taken by Russia in the wake of its extensive invasion of Ukraine last year.</p>

<p>As per&nbsp;Ukrainian authorities, they have identified approximately 20,000 children whom they claim were forcibly seized by Russia during this period.</p>

<p>Amid&nbsp;the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Moscow maintained that its actions were driven by humanitarian concerns.</p>

<p>Russian authorities insisted that they had undertaken a massive evacuation operation, rescuing hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian children to shield them from the perilous circumstances in their home country. During this period, prominent Russian officials openly disregarded any allegations against their intentions.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-does-the-russia-ukraine-war-impact-indias-wheat-export-strategy-467097">How does the Russia-Ukraine war impact India's wheat export strategy?</a></p>

<h2><strong>Challenges in repatriation</strong></h2>

<p>However, the process of bringing these children back from Russia has not been without complications. In some instances, children have had to embark on a convoluted journey, traversing through Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland before reuniting with their families in Ukraine.</p>

<p>The first to return was a seven-year-old who was reunited with his grandmother.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;reunion took place on Friday (Oct 13), and the next on&nbsp;Monday (Oct 16). The remaining&nbsp;children are expected to reach Ukraine later this week.</p>

<p>These four children are part of a larger cohort of Ukrainian children who Kyiv alleges were forcibly separated from their families, transported across the border into Russia, and subjected to a concerted effort to erase their Ukrainian identity.</p>

<p>Investigations by the BBC have revealed that Ukrainian children in Russia were frequently informed that there was nothing left for them in their home country and were subjected to varying degrees of indoctrination in a "patriotic" Russian curriculum.</p>

<p>Some Ukrainian families have had to undertake arduous journeys into Russia to reclaim their children. It's estimated that&nbsp;prior to Qatar's mediation,&nbsp;only about 400 Ukrainian children had returned to their homeland.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine's package will maintain vehicles, protect key infrastructure</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Ukraine's accusations and Russia's response</strong></h2>

<p>Daria Gerasymchuk, an adviser to the Ukrainian president for children's rights and rehabilitation, voiced strong accusations, suggesting that Russia aimed to forcibly separate children from their biological families, impose a "Russified" identity upon them, and integrate them into another ethnic group, reported the BBC.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia has indicated a willingness to cooperate in reuniting children with their families. Russian authorities have pledged to cover transportation and accommodation costs and, when necessary, conduct DNA analysis to confirm familial connections.</p>

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Russia has consented to reunite four Ukrainian kids with their families, following an agreement facilitated by Qatar. These children are in the age group of two to 17 years old.

Russia has consented to reunite four Ukrainian kids with their families, following an agreement facilitated by Qatar. These children are in the age group of two to 17 years old. This repatriation initiative represents the initial phase of a trial programme aimed at bringing back a larger number of the many children who were reportedly taken by Russia in the wake of its extensive invasion of Ukraine last year. As per Ukrainian authorities, they have identified approximately 20,000 children whom they claim were forcibly seized by Russia during this period. Amid the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Moscow maintained that its actions were driven by humanitarian concerns. Russian authorities insisted that they had undertaken a massive evacuation operation, rescuing hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian children to shield them from the perilous circumstances in their home country. During this period, prominent Russian officials openly disregarded any allegations against their intentions. Also read | How does the Russia-Ukraine war impact India's wheat export strategy? Challenges in repatriation However, the process of bringing these children back from Russia has not been without complications. In some instances, children have had to embark on a convoluted journey, traversing through Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland before reuniting with their families in Ukraine. The first to return was a seven-year-old who was reunited with his grandmother. The reunion took place on Friday (Oct 13), and the next on Monday (Oct 16). The remaining children are expected to reach Ukraine later this week. These four children are part of a larger cohort of Ukrainian children who Kyiv alleges were forcibly separated from their families, transported across the border into Russia, and subjected to a concerted effort to erase their Ukrainian identity. Investigations by the BBC have revealed that Ukrainian children in Russia were frequently informed that there was nothing left for them in their home country and were subjected to varying degrees of indoctrination in a "patriotic" Russian curriculum. Some Ukrainian families have had to undertake arduous journeys into Russia to reclaim their children. It's estimated that prior to Qatar's mediation, only about 400 Ukrainian children had returned to their homeland. Also watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine's package will maintain vehicles, protect key infrastructure Ukraine's accusations and Russia's response Daria Gerasymchuk, an adviser to the Ukrainian president for children's rights and rehabilitation, voiced strong accusations, suggesting that Russia aimed to forcibly separate children from their biological families, impose a "Russified" identity upon them, and integrate them into another ethnic group, reported the BBC. Russia has indicated a willingness to cooperate in reuniting children with their families. Russian authorities have pledged to cover transportation and accommodation costs and, when necessary, conduct DNA analysis to confirm familial connections. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia returns four Ukrainian children in Qatar-mediated repatriation deal

<p>Russian ships linked to military transport networks have collected cargo from North Korea and delivered it to an apparent Russian military port on multiple occasions over the past two months, The Washington Post said in a report on Monday (Oct 16) citing satellite images. This is the clearest evidence so far that North Korea might be helping Moscow's war effort.</p>

<p>As per the report, the two ships had no record of running this route between the two countries (North Korea and Russia) until August. At that time, US intelligence assessments suggested that Russia was looking to get North Korean weaponry to replenish its dwindling supplies for the ongoing war in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Satellite images provided by the London-based Royal United Services Institute showed that two ships - the Angara and the Maria - have been plying the route between the North Korean port of Rajin and a secure port facility in Russia's Dunai, making at least five round trips beginning mid-August through last Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per RUSI analysts and US officials, the images showed ships linked to the Russian military logistics network which strongly suggested that these commercial vessels were carrying military equipment.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-left-in-cold-finance-min-says-donor-nations-tiredness-growing-amid-elections-geopolitical-shift-647107">Ukraine left in cold? Finance min says donor nations' 'tiredness' growing amid elections, geopolitical shift</a></strong></p>

<p>“This will have a very serious effect on the trajectory of the war," Jack Watling from the RUSI said, adding that North Korea has the ability to manufacture a lot of ammunition and the country also has significant stockpiles.</p>

<p>The Washington Post reported that around the time the shipments began, munition pits were rapidly expanded at an ammunition depot near the Ukrainian border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Citing data from Marine Traffic, a ship-tracking site, the report said the two vessels went dark shortly before they began operating on this route by turning off the signal of their automatic identification system. This allowed the vessels to hide their position as they transited between ports.</p>

<p>The images showed two vessels making multiple trips between Dunai and Rajin, picking up and delivering cargo at each location.&nbsp;<br />
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Last Friday, the White House said that North Korea delivered over 1,000 containers of military equipment and munitions to Russia in recent weeks for use in Ukraine.</p>

<p>"We condemn the DPRK (North Korea's official name) for providing Russia with this military equipment, which will be used to attack Ukrainian cities, kill Ukrainian civilians, and further Russia's illegitimate war," White House national security spokesman John Kirby told reporters</p>

<p>"We will continue to monitor for any additional DPRK arms shipments to Russia," he added.</p>

<p>The White House official also said that the expanding military partnership between North Korea and Russia including any technology transfers from Moscow to Pyongyang undermined regional stability and the global non-proliferation regime.&nbsp;</p>

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Russian ships linked to military transport networks have collected cargo from North Korea and delivered it to an apparent Russian military port on multiple occasions over the past two months, The Washington Post said in a report on Monday (Oct 16) citing satellite images.

Russian ships linked to military transport networks have collected cargo from North Korea and delivered it to an apparent Russian military port on multiple occasions over the past two months, The Washington Post said in a report on Monday (Oct 16) citing satellite images. This is the clearest evidence so far that North Korea might be helping Moscow's war effort. As per the report, the two ships had no record of running this route between the two countries (North Korea and Russia) until August. At that time, US intelligence assessments suggested that Russia was looking to get North Korean weaponry to replenish its dwindling supplies for the ongoing war in Ukraine. Satellite images provided by the London-based Royal United Services Institute showed that two ships - the Angara and the Maria - have been plying the route between the North Korean port of Rajin and a secure port facility in Russia's Dunai, making at least five round trips beginning mid-August through last Saturday. As per RUSI analysts and US officials, the images showed ships linked to the Russian military logistics network which strongly suggested that these commercial vessels were carrying military equipment. Also read: Ukraine left in cold? Finance min says donor nations' 'tiredness' growing amid elections, geopolitical shift “This will have a very serious effect on the trajectory of the war," Jack Watling from the RUSI said, adding that North Korea has the ability to manufacture a lot of ammunition and the country also has significant stockpiles. The Washington Post reported that around the time the shipments began, munition pits were rapidly expanded at an ammunition depot near the Ukrainian border. Citing data from Marine Traffic, a ship-tracking site, the report said the two vessels went dark shortly before they began operating on this route by turning off the signal of their automatic identification system. This allowed the vessels to hide their position as they transited between ports. The images showed two vessels making multiple trips between Dunai and Rajin, picking up and delivering cargo at each location. Last Friday, the White House said that North Korea delivered over 1,000 containers of military equipment and munitions to Russia in recent weeks for use in Ukraine. "We condemn the DPRK (North Korea's official name) for providing Russia with this military equipment, which will be used to attack Ukrainian cities, kill Ukrainian civilians, and further Russia's illegitimate war," White House national security spokesman John Kirby told reporters "We will continue to monitor for any additional DPRK arms shipments to Russia," he added. The White House official also said that the expanding military partnership between North Korea and Russia including any technology transfers from Moscow to Pyongyang undermined regional stability and the global non-proliferation regime. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

North Korea might be sending arms to Russia for Ukraine war: Report

Russian armed forces scrambled a Su-27 fighter to confront a US air force RQ-4b Global Hawk drone. As the legendary Russian aircraft approached the US unmanned aerial vehicle, it turned away from the border. The incident is a reminder of the escalating tensions on the key black sea waterway. The Su-27 fighter is the foremost record holder among Sukhoi aircraft. It accounts for the highest number of achievements – 51. Some well-known aerobatic manoeuvres - Pougachev's cobra - were first performed using the Su-27 and were named after Russian pilots. No composite materials were used in the Su-27 design. Instead, 30% of the airframe and wings were made of titanium. The legendary Russian fighter served as the basis to develop Su-30, Su-34 and Su-35.

Putin's legendary Su-27 thunders: US drone turns away from Russian border | Details

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

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

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

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Oct 5) touched upon a range of issues, including Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's death, the Ukraine war, Indian leadership, and Canada's&nbsp;Nazi row, as he <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-slams-western-hegemony-and-warns-over-nuclear-testing-says-mission-is-to-create-new-world-643050">addressed a meeting of the Valdai Discussion Club</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The club is a Moscow-based think tank and discussion forum and was established in 2004. The name of the club is after Lake Valdai, which is close to Veliky Novgorod, - a place where the first meeting of the club took place.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here are the important points of the address:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Russia-Ukraine war</strong></h2>

<p>Putin said that the Ukrainian economy and military power would last for "only a week" if the foreign aid stopped and also said that Europe is helping Ukraine at the expense of its own economy and people.</p>

<p>He said that Europe had opted to provide monetary aid&nbsp;to Ukraine, and in so doing had worsened its own economic fortunes and also dragged out the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-set-up-naval-base-in-breakaway-georgian-region-of-abkhazia-642924">Russia to set up naval base in breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Putin on nuclear testing</strong></h2>

<p>Putin said that there is a possibility that Russia could resume nuclear testing for the first time in more than three decades and might withdraw its ratification of a landmark nuclear test ban treaty.</p>

<p>The Russian leader&nbsp;said that no one in the world in their right mind would use nuclear weapons against Russia and that potential enemies knew about Moscow's nuclear arsenal.</p>

<p>In response to a question, Putin said he was not ready to declare whether or not Russia needed to resume nuclear weapons testing, saying that "theoretically we could revoke ratification" of the international nuclear test ban treaty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin mentioned the Burevestnik as he said that Moscow had successfully tested a nuclear-powered and nuclear-capable cruise missile. He said that the capabilities of the Burevestnik are unmatched.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>On Indian leadership</strong></h2>

<p>Putin said that the Indian leadership is "self-directed" and led by the country's national interests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"At a certain point in time, they tried to do the same with India. Now they are flirting, of course. We all understand this very well. We feel and see the situation in Asia. Everything is clear. I want to say that the Indian leadership is self-directed. It is led by the national interests," Putin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also alleged that the West was trying to cast everyone "who is not ready to blindly follow these Western elites as the enemy."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-alleges-brutal-russian-crime-in-ukraine-after-at-least-48-killed-in-strike-642980">Zelensky alleges 'brutal Russian crime' in Ukraine after at least 49 killed in strike</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Canadian parliament's Nazi row</strong></h2>

<p>Putin called the Canadian parliament's standing ovation&nbsp;to honour a Ukrainian war veteran who served in Nazi Waffen SS units "disgusting". He said that it showed Moscow was right to "denazify" Ukraine.</p>

<p>Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau last month formally apologised after the speaker of the Canadian House of Commons, Anthony Rota, praised 98-year-old ex-soldier Yaroslav Hunka in the chamber in the presence of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Rota said he had made a mistake and resigned.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin on Wagner boss Prigozhin's death</strong></h2>

<p>During the address, Putin suggested that the plane crash which killed Wagner's chief in August was caused by hand grenades detonating inside the aircraft.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The private Embraer jet on which Prigozhin was travelling to St Petersburg crashed north of Moscow killing all 10 people on board on Aug 23, including two other top Wagner figures, Prigozhin's four bodyguards and a crew of three.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Fragments of hand grenades were found in the bodies of those killed in the crash," Putin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;How long does Ukraine have to save itself? NATO's weapons reserves dwindle</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Putin on Armenia</strong></h2>

<p>Armenia did not listen to Russia's recommendations on Nagorno-Karabakh, Putin said around two weeks after an Azerbaijani invasion drove ethnic Armenians who had ruled the region for more than three decades to surrender.</p>

<p>Putin stated that Armenia remained a Russian friend and that Moscow was ready to assist the people of Karabakh, despite the fact that the majority of the ethnic Armenian population had already fled the region.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin targets US</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Putin also accused the US of directing other countries on how to behave.</p>

<p>In his annual keynote speech at the Valdai Discussion Club, in Sochi, Putin targeted the US and said, "All the time, we hear 'You must', 'You have to', 'We're seriously warning you'. Who are you anyway? What right do you have to warn anyone? Maybe it’s time you yourself got rid of your arrogance and stopped behaving that way towards the world."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Oct 5) touched upon a range of issues, including Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's death, the Ukraine war, Indian leadership, and Canada's Nazi row, as he addressed a meeting of the Valdai Discussion Club.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Oct 5) touched upon a range of issues, including Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's death, the Ukraine war, Indian leadership, and Canada's Nazi row, as he addressed a meeting of the Valdai Discussion Club. The club is a Moscow-based think tank and discussion forum and was established in 2004. The name of the club is after Lake Valdai, which is close to Veliky Novgorod, - a place where the first meeting of the club took place. Here are the important points of the address: Russia-Ukraine war Putin said that the Ukrainian economy and military power would last for "only a week" if the foreign aid stopped and also said that Europe is helping Ukraine at the expense of its own economy and people. He said that Europe had opted to provide monetary aid to Ukraine, and in so doing had worsened its own economic fortunes and also dragged out the conflict. Also read: Russia to set up naval base in breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia Putin on nuclear testing Putin said that there is a possibility that Russia could resume nuclear testing for the first time in more than three decades and might withdraw its ratification of a landmark nuclear test ban treaty. The Russian leader said that no one in the world in their right mind would use nuclear weapons against Russia and that potential enemies knew about Moscow's nuclear arsenal. In response to a question, Putin said he was not ready to declare whether or not Russia needed to resume nuclear weapons testing, saying that "theoretically we could revoke ratification" of the international nuclear test ban treaty. Putin mentioned the Burevestnik as he said that Moscow had successfully tested a nuclear-powered and nuclear-capable cruise missile. He said that the capabilities of the Burevestnik are unmatched. On Indian leadership Putin said that the Indian leadership is "self-directed" and led by the country's national interests. "At a certain point in time, they tried to do the same with India. Now they are flirting, of course. We all understand this very well. We feel and see the situation in Asia. Everything is clear. I want to say that the Indian leadership is self-directed. It is led by the national interests," Putin said. He also alleged that the West was trying to cast everyone "who is not ready to blindly follow these Western elites as the enemy." Also read: Zelensky alleges 'brutal Russian crime' in Ukraine after at least 49 killed in strike Canadian parliament's Nazi row Putin called the Canadian parliament's standing ovation to honour a Ukrainian war veteran who served in Nazi Waffen SS units "disgusting". He said that it showed Moscow was right to "denazify" Ukraine. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau last month formally apologised after the speaker of the Canadian House of Commons, Anthony Rota, praised 98-year-old ex-soldier Yaroslav Hunka in the chamber in the presence of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Rota said he had made a mistake and resigned. Putin on Wagner boss Prigozhin's death During the address, Putin suggested that the plane crash which killed Wagner's chief in August was caused by hand grenades detonating inside the aircraft. The private Embraer jet on which Prigozhin was travelling to St Petersburg crashed north of Moscow killing all 10 people on board on Aug 23, including two other top Wagner figures, Prigozhin's four bodyguards and a crew of three. "Fragments of hand grenades were found in the bodies of those killed in the crash," Putin said. Watch: How long does Ukraine have to save itself? NATO's weapons reserves dwindle × Putin on Armenia Armenia did not listen to Russia's recommendations on Nagorno-Karabakh, Putin said around two weeks after an Azerbaijani invasion drove ethnic Armenians who had ruled the region for more than three decades to surrender. Putin stated that Armenia remained a Russian friend and that Moscow was ready to assist the people of Karabakh, despite the fact that the majority of the ethnic Armenian population had already fled the region. Putin targets US Putin also accused the US of directing other countries on how to behave. In his annual keynote speech at the Valdai Discussion Club, in Sochi, Putin targeted the US and said, "All the time, we hear 'You must', 'You have to', 'We're seriously warning you'. Who are you anyway? What right do you have to warn anyone? Maybe it’s time you yourself got rid of your arrogance and stopped behaving that way towards the world." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

From India to Prigozhin to nuclear warning: Striking points of Vladimir Putin's address

<p>The Ukrainian prosecutor general said at least 51&nbsp;people were killed, including a six-year-old boy, in a Russian strike on Thursday (Oct 5) in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said&nbsp;on the messaging app Telegram that Russia targeted a grocery store, describing the attack as a "brutal Russian crime".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky said the strike had slammed into the Kupiansk district, which borders Russia. In the war-battered region, Russian forces have been pushing to recapture territory they lost last year to Ukrainian troops.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement on social media, Zelensky said: "The brutal Russian crime of hitting an ordinary grocery store with a rocket is a completely deliberate terrorist attack."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky posted an image of a woman kneeling over the body of someone apparently killed in the strike, with other corpses strewn around her, while rescue workers worked nearby.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-set-up-naval-base-in-breakaway-georgian-region-of-abkhazia-642924">Russia to set up naval base in breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine conflict kills 10,000 civilians, deaths in Ukraine rises this year&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BREAKING: Russia has reportedly carried out an artillery strike of a grocery store in the village of Grozna in the Kupiansk district of Ukraine, killing at least 48 people (all or mostly all civilians).<br />
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- At least one child was killed and 47 others.<br />
<br />
- “Rescuers continue to… <a href="https://t.co/thyq9yEoWi">pic.twitter.com/thyq9yEoWi</a></p>
— Brian Krassenstein (@krassenstein) <a href="https://twitter.com/krassenstein/status/1709924131288805833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-no-plans-for-additional-mobilisation-to-fight-in-ukraine-335000-signed-up-so-far-this-year-642293"><strong>Russia says no plans for additional mobilisation to fight in Ukraine, 335,000 signed up so far this year</strong></a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>An official said that the victims were gathered for a wake. "It was a wake for a fellow villager who died," Interior Minister Igor Klymenko was quoted as saying by the Interfax Ukraine news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kharkiv region governor Oleh Synehubov said that a cafe and a shop had been attacked at around 13:15 (10:15 GMT) in the village of Hroza in the Kupyansk district of Kharkiv and that many civilians had been there at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Synehubov said on the Telegram messaging app, "The rescuers continue to work on the site."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The village is around 30 kilometres west of Kupiansk, a frontline town. It s estimated to have had a pre-war population of around 500 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Ukrainian prosecutor general said at least 51 people were killed, including a six-year-old boy, in a Russian strike on Thursday (Oct 5) in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on the messaging app Telegram that Russia targeted a grocery store, describing the attack as a "brutal Russian crime".

The Ukrainian prosecutor general said at least 51 people were killed, including a six-year-old boy, in a Russian strike on Thursday (Oct 5) in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on the messaging app Telegram that Russia targeted a grocery store, describing the attack as a "brutal Russian crime". Zelensky said the strike had slammed into the Kupiansk district, which borders Russia. In the war-battered region, Russian forces have been pushing to recapture territory they lost last year to Ukrainian troops. In a statement on social media, Zelensky said: "The brutal Russian crime of hitting an ordinary grocery store with a rocket is a completely deliberate terrorist attack." Zelensky posted an image of a woman kneeling over the body of someone apparently killed in the strike, with other corpses strewn around her, while rescue workers worked nearby. Also read: Russia to set up naval base in breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia Watch: Ukraine conflict kills 10,000 civilians, deaths in Ukraine rises this year × Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. BREAKING: Russia has reportedly carried out an artillery strike of a grocery store in the village of Grozna in the Kupiansk district of Ukraine, killing at least 48 people (all or mostly all civilians). - At least one child was killed and 47 others. - “Rescuers continue to… pic.twitter.com/thyq9yEoWi — Brian Krassenstein (@krassenstein) October 5, 2023 × Also read: Russia says no plans for additional mobilisation to fight in Ukraine, 335,000 signed up so far this year An official said that the victims were gathered for a wake. "It was a wake for a fellow villager who died," Interior Minister Igor Klymenko was quoted as saying by the Interfax Ukraine news agency. Kharkiv region governor Oleh Synehubov said that a cafe and a shop had been attacked at around 13:15 (10:15 GMT) in the village of Hroza in the Kupyansk district of Kharkiv and that many civilians had been there at the time. Synehubov said on the Telegram messaging app, "The rescuers continue to work on the site." The village is around 30 kilometres west of Kupiansk, a frontline town. It s estimated to have had a pre-war population of around 500 people. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zelensky alleges 'brutal Russian crime' in Ukraine after at least 51 killed in strike

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday (Oct 5) that Moscow is aiming to create a "new world" as he blamed the Western hegemony for a grinding offensive in Ukraine. The Russian leader also portrayed the war in Ukraine as a part of a long-standing confrontation with the West.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin claimed Russia had “practically finished work on the modern strategic weapons that I have been talking about and I announced a few years ago”.</p>

<p>He&nbsp;once again issued a nuclear threat and added that the&nbsp;‘Satan-2’ and ‘Flying Chernobyl’ missiles would be ready soon.</p>

<p>“From the moment the launch of missiles is detected, no matter where it comes from - from any point of the world ocean or from any territory - such a number, so many hundreds of our missiles appear in the air in a retaliatory strike that there is no chance of survival there will be no single enemy left, and in several directions at once," Putin said.</p>

<p>Putin said Russia is "tasked, essentially, with building a new world" and further added that the West was aiming for global "hegemony". Putin said, "The West always needs an enemy."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a stark warning to the West, Putin said that Russia could resume nuclear testing for the first time in over three decades and might withdraw its ratification of a landmark nuclear test ban treaty.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-alleges-brutal-russian-crime-in-ukraine-after-at-least-48-killed-in-strike-642980">Zelensky alleges 'brutal Russian crime' in Ukraine after at least 49 killed in strike</a></strong></p>

<p>Putin mentioned the Burevestnik as he said that Moscow had successfully tested a nuclear-powered and nuclear-capable cruise missile. He said that the capabilities of the Burevestnik are unmatched.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin also said that no one in the world in their right mind would use nuclear weapons against Russia and that potential enemies knew about Russia's nuclear arsenal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kremlin chief said there was no need to change Russia's nuclear doctrine, however, as any attack on Russia would provoke a split-second response with hundreds of nuclear missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the nuclear doctrine, Putin said, "Do we need to change this? And why? Everything can be changed but I just don't see the need for it."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think no person of sound mind and clear memory would think of using nuclear weapons against Russia," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ex-German ambassador to NATO on war in Ukraine &amp; impact of US Elections&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Putin targets US&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Putin also accused the US of directing other countries on how to behave.</p>

<p>In his annual keynote speech at the Valdai Discussion Club, in Sochi, Putin targeted the US and said, "All the time, we hear 'You must', 'You have to', 'We're seriously warning you'. Who are you anyway? What right do you have to warn anyone? Maybe it’s time you yourself got rid of your arrogance and stopped behaving that way towards the world."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-set-up-naval-base-in-breakaway-georgian-region-of-abkhazia-642924">Russia to set up naval base in breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2>Ukraine war not a 'territorial one'&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Russian leader said that the conflict in Ukraine was "not a territorial" one and that Moscow has "no interests from the point of view of conquering some territories."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the aftermath of the war, Russia's army occupies large swathes of southern and eastern Ukraine, and Putin has formally annexed four Ukrainian regions: Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk and Lugansk. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin has consistently said that Ukrainian territory was historically Russian and questioned Ukrainian statehood.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday (Oct 5) that Moscow is aiming to create a "new world" as he blamed the Western hegemony for a grinding offensive in Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday (Oct 5) that Moscow is aiming to create a "new world" as he blamed the Western hegemony for a grinding offensive in Ukraine. The Russian leader also portrayed the war in Ukraine as a part of a long-standing confrontation with the West. Putin claimed Russia had “practically finished work on the modern strategic weapons that I have been talking about and I announced a few years ago”. He once again issued a nuclear threat and added that the ‘Satan-2’ and ‘Flying Chernobyl’ missiles would be ready soon. “From the moment the launch of missiles is detected, no matter where it comes from - from any point of the world ocean or from any territory - such a number, so many hundreds of our missiles appear in the air in a retaliatory strike that there is no chance of survival there will be no single enemy left, and in several directions at once," Putin said. Putin said Russia is "tasked, essentially, with building a new world" and further added that the West was aiming for global "hegemony". Putin said, "The West always needs an enemy." In a stark warning to the West, Putin said that Russia could resume nuclear testing for the first time in over three decades and might withdraw its ratification of a landmark nuclear test ban treaty. Also read: Zelensky alleges 'brutal Russian crime' in Ukraine after at least 49 killed in strike Putin mentioned the Burevestnik as he said that Moscow had successfully tested a nuclear-powered and nuclear-capable cruise missile. He said that the capabilities of the Burevestnik are unmatched. Putin also said that no one in the world in their right mind would use nuclear weapons against Russia and that potential enemies knew about Russia's nuclear arsenal. The Kremlin chief said there was no need to change Russia's nuclear doctrine, however, as any attack on Russia would provoke a split-second response with hundreds of nuclear missiles. On the nuclear doctrine, Putin said, "Do we need to change this? And why? Everything can be changed but I just don't see the need for it." "I think no person of sound mind and clear memory would think of using nuclear weapons against Russia," he said. Watch: Ex-German ambassador to NATO on war in Ukraine & impact of US Elections × Putin targets US Putin also accused the US of directing other countries on how to behave. In his annual keynote speech at the Valdai Discussion Club, in Sochi, Putin targeted the US and said, "All the time, we hear 'You must', 'You have to', 'We're seriously warning you'. Who are you anyway? What right do you have to warn anyone? Maybe it’s time you yourself got rid of your arrogance and stopped behaving that way towards the world." Also read: Russia to set up naval base in breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia Ukraine war not a 'territorial one' The Russian leader said that the conflict in Ukraine was "not a territorial" one and that Moscow has "no interests from the point of view of conquering some territories." In the aftermath of the war, Russia's army occupies large swathes of southern and eastern Ukraine, and Putin has formally annexed four Ukrainian regions: Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk and Lugansk. Putin has consistently said that Ukrainian territory was historically Russian and questioned Ukrainian statehood. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'No chance of survival': Putin's latest nuclear warning has the world on edge

<p>The United States military said on Wednesday (Oct 4) that more than one million rounds of Iranian ammunition, that had been seized last year, was sent to Ukraine. US Navy has seized the weapons suspected to come from Iran for years, intended for Iran-backed Houthi fighters in Yemen, generally via fishing vessels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After this move, the nation could send more seized military gear to Ukraine at a time when Washington's ability to continue arming Kyiv has been questioned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The military's Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Wednesday that "the US government transferred approximately 1.1 million 7.62mm rounds to the Ukrainian armed forces" on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attention-everyone-russia-tests-public-warning-system-amid-the-war-in-ukraine-642542">Attention everyone! Russia tests public warning system amid the war in Ukraine</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The statement said, "The government obtained ownership of these munitions on July 20, 2023, through the Department of Justice's civil forfeiture claims against Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)."&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday, the Pentagon said that the US can continue meeting Ukraine's military needs for a "little bit longer" with assistance that has already been authorised. However, it mentioned that congressional action is required for aid to continue in the longer term.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bullets were originally seized by US naval forces in December 2022 and being transferred from Iran's Revolutionary Guards to Houthi forces in Yemen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The U.S. is committed to working with our allies and partners to counter the flow of Iranian lethal aid in the region by all lawful means including U.S. and U.N. sanctions and through interdictions," said the Central Command statement, which is responsible for military operations in the Middle East.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-may-order-test-of-burevestnik-flying-chernobyl-nuke-on-his-birthday-642326">Putin's birthday plans include the 'doomsday' 'flying Chernobyl' nuclear missile</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch: Ex-speaker Nancy Pelosi vacates Capitol office</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Russia-Ukraine war latest&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A source in the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) told the news agency Reuters on Wednesday that Ukraine carried out a drone attack on the western Russian region of Belgorod overnight and hit an S-400 air defence complex and its radar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia's defence ministry said earlier on Wednesday that it had downed 31 drones launched by Kyiv overnight over the regions of Belgorod, Bryansk and Kursk, but reported no casualties or damage. The two accounts could not be independently verified.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The United States military said on Wednesday (Oct 4) that more than one million rounds of Iranian ammunition, that had been seized last year, was sent to Ukraine.

The United States military said on Wednesday (Oct 4) that more than one million rounds of Iranian ammunition, that had been seized last year, was sent to Ukraine. US Navy has seized the weapons suspected to come from Iran for years, intended for Iran-backed Houthi fighters in Yemen, generally via fishing vessels. After this move, the nation could send more seized military gear to Ukraine at a time when Washington's ability to continue arming Kyiv has been questioned. The military's Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Wednesday that "the US government transferred approximately 1.1 million 7.62mm rounds to the Ukrainian armed forces" on Monday. Also read: Attention everyone! Russia tests public warning system amid the war in Ukraine The statement said, "The government obtained ownership of these munitions on July 20, 2023, through the Department of Justice's civil forfeiture claims against Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)." On Tuesday, the Pentagon said that the US can continue meeting Ukraine's military needs for a "little bit longer" with assistance that has already been authorised. However, it mentioned that congressional action is required for aid to continue in the longer term. The bullets were originally seized by US naval forces in December 2022 and being transferred from Iran's Revolutionary Guards to Houthi forces in Yemen. "The U.S. is committed to working with our allies and partners to counter the flow of Iranian lethal aid in the region by all lawful means including U.S. and U.N. sanctions and through interdictions," said the Central Command statement, which is responsible for military operations in the Middle East. Also read: Putin's birthday plans include the 'doomsday' 'flying Chernobyl' nuclear missile Watch: Ex-speaker Nancy Pelosi vacates Capitol office × Russia-Ukraine war latest A source in the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) told the news agency Reuters on Wednesday that Ukraine carried out a drone attack on the western Russian region of Belgorod overnight and hit an S-400 air defence complex and its radar. Russia's defence ministry said earlier on Wednesday that it had downed 31 drones launched by Kyiv overnight over the regions of Belgorod, Bryansk and Kursk, but reported no casualties or damage. The two accounts could not be independently verified. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia-Ukraine war: US sends over a million rounds of seized Iranian ammunition to Kyiv

<p>Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Tuesday (Oct 3) that Moscow has no plans for an additional mobilisation of men to fight in the ongoing Ukraine war as more than 335,000 have signed up so far this year to fight in the armed forces or voluntary units.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the Russia-Ukraine war, which&nbsp;started last year on Feb 24, Russia has been beefing up its armed forces and increasing weapon production in preparation reportedly for a long conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-clarifies-russia-still-adheres-to-nuclear-moratorium-dismissing-remarks-of-rt-chief-642248">Kremlin clarifies Russia still adheres to nuclear moratorium, dismissing remarks by RT chief</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Shoigu was shown telling top generals on state television that "there are no plans for an additional mobilisation" and "the armed forces have the necessary number of military personnel to conduct the special military operation".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He claimed that more than 50,000 Russians signed the contracts with the ministry in September alone, and over 335,000 people have started military service since the beginning of 2023.</p>

<p>Hailing the patriotism of those who had signed up, Shoigu said: "Since the start of the year, more than 335,000 people have entered military service under contract and in volunteer formations. In September alone, more than 50,000 citizens signed contracts."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-ukraine-and-lithuania-reach-historic-deal-on-grain-exports-642206">Poland, Ukraine and Lithuania reach historic deal on grain exports</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Has Russia-Ukraine counteroffensive failed? Is winter about to halt the counteroffensive?</strong></p>

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<p>The figures claimed by the defence minister&nbsp;show that Russia has made tremendous headway in both signing recruits and incorporating many Wagner mercenaries into "voluntary formations".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year in Sep, Putin ordered a "partial mobilisation" of 300,000 reservists, prompting hundreds of thousands of young men to flee Russia to avoid being sent to fight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin has repeatedly said there is no need to repeat the mobilisation, which some Russian officials say was a mistake as it prompted so many to leave.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Tuesday (Oct 3) that Moscow has no plans for an additional mobilisation of men to fight in the ongoing Ukraine war as more than 335,000 have signed up so far this year to fight in the armed forces or voluntary units.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Tuesday (Oct 3) that Moscow has no plans for an additional mobilisation of men to fight in the ongoing Ukraine war as more than 335,000 have signed up so far this year to fight in the armed forces or voluntary units. After the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year on Feb 24, Russia has been beefing up its armed forces and increasing weapon production in preparation reportedly for a long conflict. Also read: Kremlin clarifies Russia still adheres to nuclear moratorium, dismissing remarks by RT chief Shoigu was shown telling top generals on state television that "there are no plans for an additional mobilisation" and "the armed forces have the necessary number of military personnel to conduct the special military operation". He claimed that more than 50,000 Russians signed the contracts with the ministry in September alone, and over 335,000 people have started military service since the beginning of 2023. Hailing the patriotism of those who had signed up, Shoigu said: "Since the start of the year, more than 335,000 people have entered military service under contract and in volunteer formations. In September alone, more than 50,000 citizens signed contracts." Also read: Poland, Ukraine and Lithuania reach historic deal on grain exports Watch: Has Russia-Ukraine counteroffensive failed? Is winter about to halt the counteroffensive? × The figures claimed by the defence minister show that Russia has made tremendous headway in both signing recruits and incorporating many Wagner mercenaries into "voluntary formations". Last year in Sep, Putin ordered a "partial mobilisation" of 300,000 reservists, prompting hundreds of thousands of young men to flee Russia to avoid being sent to fight. Putin has repeatedly said there is no need to repeat the mobilisation, which some Russian officials say was a mistake as it prompted so many to leave. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia says no plans for additional mobilisation to fight in Ukraine, 335,000 signed up so far this year

<p>Russia on Wednesday (Oct 4) tested its emergency public warning systems across the country with blaring sirens, and interrupting some television and radio broadcasts to advise the public to remain calm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ministry of Emergency Situations said in a press release that a large-scale audit of public warning systems at the regional and municipal levels will take place nationwide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The test was first conducted in 2020 and it is part of a new initiative that requires authorities to conduct tests twice a year, starting from Sep 1.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-may-order-test-of-burevestnik-flying-chernobyl-nuke-on-his-birthday-642326">Putin's birthday plans include the 'doomsday' 'flying Chernobyl' nuclear missile</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>At around 10:40am Moscow time (0740 GMT), sirens wailed across some parts of Russia and stern announcements demanded "Attention everyone!".&nbsp;</p>

<p>A male Russian voice said on&nbsp;speakers: "The warning system is designed to timely convey a signal to the population in the event of a threat or emergency of a natural or man-made nature. The readiness of warning systems is being checked, please remain calm."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry said in a statement: "When you hear the sound of a siren, you need to remain calm and not panic, turn on the TV - any publicly accessible channel or radio - and listen to the information message."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/55-chinese-sailors-die-of-poisoning-asphyxiation-in-catastrophic-nuclear-submarine-accident-642315">55 Chinese sailors die of poisoning, asphyxiation in nuclear submarine accident: Report</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine's drone army expanding with Ratel Ground Drones</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>US government to conduct nationwide emergency alert&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Russia's emergency alert testing comes amid the United States also carrying out the same exercise. Government officials said that a message reading 'THIS IS A TEST' may flash across the screen of your cell phone or television on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The exercise is a part of the federal government's routine testing of its emergency alert system, which is used to inform people about emergencies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, said in a press release that the purpose of the test is to ensure that the systems "continue to be effective in alerting the public to emergencies, particularly at the national level".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Not just the US and Russia, but many other countries have also conducted alert system tests for crises and disasters in recent years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russia on Wednesday (Oct 4) tested its emergency public warning systems across the country with blaring sirens, and interrupting some television and radio broadcasts to advise the public to remain calm.

Russia on Wednesday (Oct 4) tested its emergency public warning systems across the country with blaring sirens, and interrupting some television and radio broadcasts to advise the public to remain calm. The Ministry of Emergency Situations said in a press release that a large-scale audit of public warning systems at the regional and municipal levels will take place nationwide. The test was first conducted in 2020 and it is part of a new initiative that requires authorities to conduct tests twice a year, starting from Sep 1. Also read: Putin's birthday plans include the 'doomsday' 'flying Chernobyl' nuclear missile At around 10:40am Moscow time (0740 GMT), sirens wailed across some parts of Russia and stern announcements demanded "Attention everyone!". A male Russian voice said on speakers: "The warning system is designed to timely convey a signal to the population in the event of a threat or emergency of a natural or man-made nature. The readiness of warning systems is being checked, please remain calm." The ministry said in a statement: "When you hear the sound of a siren, you need to remain calm and not panic, turn on the TV - any publicly accessible channel or radio - and listen to the information message." Also read: 55 Chinese sailors die of poisoning, asphyxiation in nuclear submarine accident: Report Watch: Ukraine's drone army expanding with Ratel Ground Drones × US government to conduct nationwide emergency alert Russia's emergency alert testing comes amid the United States also carrying out the same exercise. Government officials said that a message reading 'THIS IS A TEST' may flash across the screen of your cell phone or television on Wednesday. The exercise is a part of the federal government's routine testing of its emergency alert system, which is used to inform people about emergencies. The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, said in a press release that the purpose of the test is to ensure that the systems "continue to be effective in alerting the public to emergencies, particularly at the national level". Not just the US and Russia, but many other countries have also conducted alert system tests for crises and disasters in recent years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Attention everyone! Russia tests public warning system amid the war in Ukraine

<p>European Union foreign ministers convened in Kyiv on Monday (Oct 2) for the first-ever meeting outside the 27-nation bloc and reiterated its long-term support for the war-torn country. The move is being seen as a show of support after Slovakia recently elected a pro-Russian candidate and the United States Congress passed a temporary spending bill with no aid for the Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Historic’ gathering in Kyiv</strong></h2>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-defenders-of-ukraine-day-nothing-will-weaken-kyivs-resolve-against-russia-says-zelensky-641594/#defenders-day-of-ukraine-in-lviv-641595">EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell</a>&nbsp;described the gathering in Kyiv as “historic” but also said no concrete announcements would be made.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It is the first time that we met in a candidate country. And, unfortunately, it was also the first time that the foreign ministers of the European Union met in a country at war,” said Borrell.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meeting also comes amid growing disagreements among EU members over support for Ukraine and Kyiv’s high-stakes counteroffensive against the Russian forces with no major success so far. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“I am sure that Ukraine and the entire free world are capable of winning this confrontation. But our victory depends directly on our cooperation with you,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told the ministers.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Kyiv brushes off US and Slovakia issues</strong></h2>

<p>The US Congress recently passed an emergency bill, to stop the government from shutting down, which excluded aid to Ukraine. However, Kyiv has said that they have been assured by the US officials that their support for Ukraine will continue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We don’t feel that the US support has been shattered...because the United States understands that what is at stake in Ukraine is much bigger than just Ukraine,” Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba told reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-not-walk-away-biden-pledges-support-to-ukraine-after-congress-pauses-war-time-aid-641627">Joe Biden </a>said Republicans had pledged to provide Ukraine aid through a separate vote and assured that American support could not be interrupted “under any circumstances.”</p>

<p>Speaking about the election victory of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-robert-ficos-win-in-slovakia-is-good-news-for-vladimir-putin-during-ukraine-war-641770">pro-Russian Robert Fico</a> in Slovakia, Kuleba said that it was “too early to judge” the impact of politics there.</p>

<p>This comes a day after Fico, following his win, said that the EU and NATO member nation is ready to help Ukraine in a “humanitarian way” but has rejected the prospect of providing any further military aid to Kyiv.</p>

<p>Kuleba also told Borrell that the Kremlin was investing “huge resources” to stir disunity among its allies and urged them to stand firm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“(Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s greatest expectation is precisely that the West and the world will tire of standing on the side of Ukraine in this war,” said the Ukrainian official.&nbsp;</p>

<p>French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna said that their being in Kyiv is a signal to Russia indicating the bloc’s determination to support Ukraine over the long term and “until it can win. It is also a message to Russia that it should not count on our weariness.”</p>

<p>Meanwhile, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock called for measures like air defence and guaranteed energy supplies to prepare Ukraine for winter after Russia bombed energy infrastructure last year, saying, “We must prevent this together with everything we have, as far as possible.”</p>

<h2><strong>Russia on Western ‘fatigue’ over Ukraine war</strong></h2>

<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the US congressional vote was a sign of increasing divisions in the West over the war, but expects Americans to continue support calling it a “temporary phenomenon.”</p>

<p>“But we have repeatedly said before that according to our forecasts fatigue from this conflict, fatigue from the completely absurd sponsorship of the Kyiv regime, will grow in various countries, including the United States,” said Peskov.<br />
<br />
He also defended Fico, saying it was “absurd” to label politicians who support their own country’s national interests as “pro-Russian”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

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European Union foreign ministers convened in Kyiv on Monday (Oct 2) for the first-ever meeting outside the 27-nation bloc and reiterated its long-term support for the war-torn country.

European Union foreign ministers convened in Kyiv on Monday (Oct 2) for the first-ever meeting outside the 27-nation bloc and reiterated its long-term support for the war-torn country. The move is being seen as a show of support after Slovakia recently elected a pro-Russian candidate and the United States Congress passed a temporary spending bill with no aid for the Ukraine war. ‘Historic’ gathering in Kyiv EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell described the gathering in Kyiv as “historic” but also said no concrete announcements would be made. “It is the first time that we met in a candidate country. And, unfortunately, it was also the first time that the foreign ministers of the European Union met in a country at war,” said Borrell. The meeting also comes amid growing disagreements among EU members over support for Ukraine and Kyiv’s high-stakes counteroffensive against the Russian forces with no major success so far. “I am sure that Ukraine and the entire free world are capable of winning this confrontation. But our victory depends directly on our cooperation with you,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told the ministers. Kyiv brushes off US and Slovakia issues The US Congress recently passed an emergency bill, to stop the government from shutting down, which excluded aid to Ukraine. However, Kyiv has said that they have been assured by the US officials that their support for Ukraine will continue. “We don’t feel that the US support has been shattered...because the United States understands that what is at stake in Ukraine is much bigger than just Ukraine,” Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba told reporters. US President Joe Biden said Republicans had pledged to provide Ukraine aid through a separate vote and assured that American support could not be interrupted “under any circumstances.” Speaking about the election victory of pro-Russian Robert Fico in Slovakia, Kuleba said that it was “too early to judge” the impact of politics there. This comes a day after Fico, following his win, said that the EU and NATO member nation is ready to help Ukraine in a “humanitarian way” but has rejected the prospect of providing any further military aid to Kyiv. Kuleba also told Borrell that the Kremlin was investing “huge resources” to stir disunity among its allies and urged them to stand firm. “(Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s greatest expectation is precisely that the West and the world will tire of standing on the side of Ukraine in this war,” said the Ukrainian official. French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna said that their being in Kyiv is a signal to Russia indicating the bloc’s determination to support Ukraine over the long term and “until it can win. It is also a message to Russia that it should not count on our weariness.” Meanwhile, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock called for measures like air defence and guaranteed energy supplies to prepare Ukraine for winter after Russia bombed energy infrastructure last year, saying, “We must prevent this together with everything we have, as far as possible.” Russia on Western ‘fatigue’ over Ukraine war Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the US congressional vote was a sign of increasing divisions in the West over the war, but expects Americans to continue support calling it a “temporary phenomenon.” “But we have repeatedly said before that according to our forecasts fatigue from this conflict, fatigue from the completely absurd sponsorship of the Kyiv regime, will grow in various countries, including the United States,” said Peskov. He also defended Fico, saying it was “absurd” to label politicians who support their own country’s national interests as “pro-Russian”. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

EU pledges support for Ukraine war at ‘historic’ meeting in Kyiv amid US, Slovakia issues

<p>Drunk recruits. Insubordinate soldiers. Convicts.</p>

<p>They're among hundreds of military and civilian offenders who've been pressed into Russian penal units known as "Storm-Z" squads and sent to the frontlines in Ukraine this year, according to 13 people with knowledge of the matter, including five fighters in the units.</p>

<p>Few live to tell their tale, the people said.</p>

<p>"Storm fighters, they're just meat," said one regular soldier from army unit no. 40318 who was deployed near the fiercely contested city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine in May and June.</p>

<p>He said he'd given medical treatment to a group of six or seven wounded Storm-Z fighters on the battlefield, disobeying an order from a commander - whose name he didn't know - to leave the men. He said he didn't know why the commander gave the order, but claimed that it typified how Storm-Z fighters were considered of lesser value than ordinary troops by officers.</p>

<p>The soldier, who requested anonymity because he feared prosecution in Russia for publicly discussing the war, said he had sympathy for the men's plight: "If the commandants catch anyone with the smell of alcohol on their breath, then they immediately send them to the Storm squads."</p>

<p>When contacted by Reuters, an officer at unit no. 40318 declined to comment on Storm-Z and ended the call. The Kremlin referred Reuters questions to the Russian defence ministry, which didn't respond to a request for comment.</p>

<p>Russian state-controlled media has reported that Storm-Z squads exist, that they took part in intense battles and some of their members received medals for bravery, but it has not disclosed how they are formed, or the losses they take.</p>

<p>Reuters is the first news organisation to compile a comprehensive account of how the squads are put together and deployed, by speaking to multiple sources with direct knowledge of what is happening.</p>

<p>Like the soldier from unit no. 40318, the 13 people interviewed - who also include four relatives of Storm-Z members as well as three soldiers in regular units who interacted with the squads - all requested anonymity, citing fear of reprisals. Reuters verified the identities of all the fighters involved using criminal records, social media accounts, or by speaking to their fellow serviceman and their families.</p>

<p>The penal squads, each about 100-150 strong and embedded within regular army units, have typically been sent to the most exposed parts of the front and often sustain heavy losses, according to Reuters interviews with the people, who identified at least five Storm-Z teams fighting to repel a Ukrainian counteroffensive in the east and south.</p>

<p>Three of the five Storm-Z fighters interviewed by Reuters, and the relatives of three other Storm-Z fighters, described nightmarish engagements that saw much of their squads wiped out.</p>

<p>One fighter, with a conviction for theft who was recruited from prison, said all but 15 of the 120 men in his unit embedded with the 237th regiment were killed or wounded in fighting near Bakhmut in June.</p>

<p>The deployment of such squads marks a departure for Russia in Ukraine: while the Wagner mercenary group - now being disbanded after a June mutiny - sent convicts to fight on the frontline, the Storm-Z units come under the direct command of the defence ministry.</p>

<p>The squads also combine convicts who volunteer to fight in exchange for the promise of a pardon with regular soldiers being punished for disciplinary breaches, the people interviewed said.</p>

<p>The Storm-Z squads are useful to the Russian defence ministry because they can be deployed as expendable infantry, according to Conflict Intelligence Team, an independent organisation that's tracking the war. "The Storm fighters are just sent to the most dangerous parts of the front, in defence and in attack," the group, which was founded in Russia, told Reuters.</p>

<p>While the Russian defence ministry has never acknowledged creating Storm-Z units, the first reports of their existence emerged in April when the Institute for the Study of War, a U.S.-based think-tank, cited what it said appeared to be a leaked Russian military report on the formation of the squads.</p>

<p>Reuters wasn't able to determine how many soldiers in total are serving in the units, though the interviews with the people familiar with the matter point to at least several hundred Storm-Z fighters currently being deployed on the frontline.</p>

<p>Wagner had about 25,000 fighters engaged in the conflict, its late leader Yevgeny Prigozhin said at the time of his June mutiny.</p>

<p>President Vladimir Putin made reference to convicts fighting in the regular army on Friday. At a televised meeting with a small group of regular Russian servicemen, he said he was aware that two of their comrades, former prison inmates, had been killed in action. "They gave their lives for the motherland and have fully absolved themselves of their guilt," said Putin, adding that the convicts' families would be given help, without elaborating.</p>

<p>There is historical precedent for military offenders being pressed into fighting units; in 1942, when the Red Army was retreating from a Nazi advance, Soviet leader Josef Stalin ordered soldiers who panicked or left their posts into "punishment battalions" deployed to the most dangerous parts of the front, according to a decree he signed.</p>

<p>Ukraine's government has said it also releases some convicts if they agree to fight in the war.</p>

<h2><strong>From custody to carnage</strong></h2>

<p>Storm-Z is an unofficial term used by Russian troops, combining a term for assault troops with the letter Z, adopted by the military as a symbol of their invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>Artyom Shchikin, a 29-year-old from the Mordovia region in central Russia, was serving a two-year sentence for robbery handed down in December 2021 when defence ministry recruiters came to his jail asking if inmates wanted to go and fight in Ukraine, according to court records and two of his relatives.</p>

<p>He signed up because, even though he was scheduled for release in December this year, he wanted to wipe clean his criminal record plus earn money so his family could renovate their home, his family members said. Three Storm-Z fighters said they were offered wages of about 200,000 roubles ($2,000) per month, though said they had been paid roughly half that amount, on average.</p>

<p>By May this year, Shchikin was assigned to a penal unit within the 291st Guards Motorised Rifle Regiment and deployed to the Zaporizhzhia region in southern Ukraine, where Kyiv's forces are trying to break through Russian defences, the relatives added.</p>

<p>An official with the regimental headquarters didn't respond to Reuters questions.</p>

<p>Vladimir Rogov, an official in the Russian-installed administration in Zaporizhzhia who gives regular online updates about the conflict, has posted on Telegram that the 291st regiment was fighting in the region throughout the summer. Rogov didn't respond to a Reuters request for comment.</p>

<p>Shchikin's relatives last heard from him on June 18.</p>

<p>Days later, his unit's positions came under Ukrainian fire, the relatives said, citing conversations with two survivors from Shchikin's squad. Three comrades who had been in a trench with him were killed, another had his hand torn off, while Shchikin himself is missing, the relatives said. His body hasn't been recovered.</p>

<p>Shchikin's relatives said when they asked the defence ministry for answers about his fate, it either didn't respond or didn't give any definitive answers.</p>

<p>"They were from a Storm unit. For them, no one is going to be in a rush," said one relative.</p>

<p>Reuters was unable to independently confirm the relatives' account of events.</p>

<h2><strong>Drunk on duty, using drugs</strong></h2>

<p>While convicts form the core of the penal squads, some regular soldiers have been assigned to them as punishment for breaking discipline, according to two soldiers who said members of their units had been transferred in this way, as well as a Storm-Z fighter called Igor, a convict jailed for attempted murder.</p>

<p>The two soldiers, including the one from unit no. 40318, said officers had sent soldiers to Storm-Z for being drunk on duty, for using drugs, and for refusing to carry out orders.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Truck-mounted Caesar Howitzers for Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>According to Russian legislation on military discipline, a soldier can only be transferred to a penal unit if convicted by a military court. None of the people who told Reuters of soldiers being sent to Storm-Z said the men had participated in a court hearing. Contacted last week, the soldier from unit no. 40318 said there were no court hearings involved in such transfers, and Igor, the Storm-Z fighter, said he had no knowledge of court hearings having taken place.</p>

<p>The Geneva convention, a set of international rules of war, doesn't cover soldiers being punished by their own side.</p>

<h2><strong>Revolt of Storm-Z fighters</strong></h2>

<p>One group of about 20 Storm-Z fighters in Zaporizhzhia, who were part of unit number 22179, decided they'd had enough of their treatment, refused an order to go back to the frontline, and recorded a June 28 video complaining about their treatment. Reuters called numbers listed for the unit, but they were out of operation.</p>

<p>"On the frontline, where we've been, we did not get deliveries of ammunition. We did not get water or food. The injured were not taken away: still now the dead are rotting," said a fighter in the video, whom Reuters was unable to identify.</p>

<p>"We're given dreadful orders that are not even worth carrying out," he added. "We refuse to continue carrying out combat missions."</p>

<p>Reuters established the identities of two of the fighters involved in the revolt, and spoke to a relative of each man who corroborated the account in the video, which was published on June 28 by Gulagu.net, a France-based campaign group for Russian prisoners' rights, and reviewed by Reuters.</p>

<p>After the video was published, military police officers beat up the two fighters, and others in their squad, as punishment for their revolt, the two relatives said. Since then, they said the two fighters had told them that conditions had improved but they did not know when the men would be allowed to quit the military.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/burger-king-continues-to-remain-open-in-russia-even-after-pledge-to-exit-642085"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Burger King continues to remain open in Russia even after pledge to exit</strong></a></p>

<p>Russian officials have made no public comment about the incident, and the defence ministry didn't reply to Reuters queries.</p>

<p>The family member of one of the soldiers in the revolt, a man from Siberia who had volunteered to join Storm-Z from prison, said she dreaded news from the front.</p>

<p>"My God, let this end soon," she said of the war.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</strong></em></p>

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Drunk recruits. Insubordinate soldiers. Convicts. They're among hundreds of military and civilian offenders who've been pressed into Russian penal units known as "Storm-Z" squads and sent to the frontlines in Ukraine this year, according to 13 people with knowledge of the matter, including five fighters in the units.

Drunk recruits. Insubordinate soldiers. Convicts. They're among hundreds of military and civilian offenders who've been pressed into Russian penal units known as "Storm-Z" squads and sent to the frontlines in Ukraine this year, according to 13 people with knowledge of the matter, including five fighters in the units. Few live to tell their tale, the people said. "Storm fighters, they're just meat," said one regular soldier from army unit no. 40318 who was deployed near the fiercely contested city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine in May and June. He said he'd given medical treatment to a group of six or seven wounded Storm-Z fighters on the battlefield, disobeying an order from a commander - whose name he didn't know - to leave the men. He said he didn't know why the commander gave the order, but claimed that it typified how Storm-Z fighters were considered of lesser value than ordinary troops by officers. The soldier, who requested anonymity because he feared prosecution in Russia for publicly discussing the war, said he had sympathy for the men's plight: "If the commandants catch anyone with the smell of alcohol on their breath, then they immediately send them to the Storm squads." When contacted by Reuters, an officer at unit no. 40318 declined to comment on Storm-Z and ended the call. The Kremlin referred Reuters questions to the Russian defence ministry, which didn't respond to a request for comment. Russian state-controlled media has reported that Storm-Z squads exist, that they took part in intense battles and some of their members received medals for bravery, but it has not disclosed how they are formed, or the losses they take. Reuters is the first news organisation to compile a comprehensive account of how the squads are put together and deployed, by speaking to multiple sources with direct knowledge of what is happening. Like the soldier from unit no. 40318, the 13 people interviewed - who also include four relatives of Storm-Z members as well as three soldiers in regular units who interacted with the squads - all requested anonymity, citing fear of reprisals. Reuters verified the identities of all the fighters involved using criminal records, social media accounts, or by speaking to their fellow serviceman and their families. The penal squads, each about 100-150 strong and embedded within regular army units, have typically been sent to the most exposed parts of the front and often sustain heavy losses, according to Reuters interviews with the people, who identified at least five Storm-Z teams fighting to repel a Ukrainian counteroffensive in the east and south. Three of the five Storm-Z fighters interviewed by Reuters, and the relatives of three other Storm-Z fighters, described nightmarish engagements that saw much of their squads wiped out. One fighter, with a conviction for theft who was recruited from prison, said all but 15 of the 120 men in his unit embedded with the 237th regiment were killed or wounded in fighting near Bakhmut in June. The deployment of such squads marks a departure for Russia in Ukraine: while the Wagner mercenary group - now being disbanded after a June mutiny - sent convicts to fight on the frontline, the Storm-Z units come under the direct command of the defence ministry. The squads also combine convicts who volunteer to fight in exchange for the promise of a pardon with regular soldiers being punished for disciplinary breaches, the people interviewed said. The Storm-Z squads are useful to the Russian defence ministry because they can be deployed as expendable infantry, according to Conflict Intelligence Team, an independent organisation that's tracking the war. "The Storm fighters are just sent to the most dangerous parts of the front, in defence and in attack," the group, which was founded in Russia, told Reuters. While the Russian defence ministry has never acknowledged creating Storm-Z units, the first reports of their existence emerged in April when the Institute for the Study of War, a U.S.-based think-tank, cited what it said appeared to be a leaked Russian military report on the formation of the squads. Reuters wasn't able to determine how many soldiers in total are serving in the units, though the interviews with the people familiar with the matter point to at least several hundred Storm-Z fighters currently being deployed on the frontline. Wagner had about 25,000 fighters engaged in the conflict, its late leader Yevgeny Prigozhin said at the time of his June mutiny. President Vladimir Putin made reference to convicts fighting in the regular army on Friday. At a televised meeting with a small group of regular Russian servicemen, he said he was aware that two of their comrades, former prison inmates, had been killed in action. "They gave their lives for the motherland and have fully absolved themselves of their guilt," said Putin, adding that the convicts' families would be given help, without elaborating. There is historical precedent for military offenders being pressed into fighting units; in 1942, when the Red Army was retreating from a Nazi advance, Soviet leader Josef Stalin ordered soldiers who panicked or left their posts into "punishment battalions" deployed to the most dangerous parts of the front, according to a decree he signed. Ukraine's government has said it also releases some convicts if they agree to fight in the war. From custody to carnage Storm-Z is an unofficial term used by Russian troops, combining a term for assault troops with the letter Z, adopted by the military as a symbol of their invasion of Ukraine. Artyom Shchikin, a 29-year-old from the Mordovia region in central Russia, was serving a two-year sentence for robbery handed down in December 2021 when defence ministry recruiters came to his jail asking if inmates wanted to go and fight in Ukraine, according to court records and two of his relatives. He signed up because, even though he was scheduled for release in December this year, he wanted to wipe clean his criminal record plus earn money so his family could renovate their home, his family members said. Three Storm-Z fighters said they were offered wages of about 200,000 roubles ($2,000) per month, though said they had been paid roughly half that amount, on average. By May this year, Shchikin was assigned to a penal unit within the 291st Guards Motorised Rifle Regiment and deployed to the Zaporizhzhia region in southern Ukraine, where Kyiv's forces are trying to break through Russian defences, the relatives added. An official with the regimental headquarters didn't respond to Reuters questions. Vladimir Rogov, an official in the Russian-installed administration in Zaporizhzhia who gives regular online updates about the conflict, has posted on Telegram that the 291st regiment was fighting in the region throughout the summer. Rogov didn't respond to a Reuters request for comment. Shchikin's relatives last heard from him on June 18. Days later, his unit's positions came under Ukrainian fire, the relatives said, citing conversations with two survivors from Shchikin's squad. Three comrades who had been in a trench with him were killed, another had his hand torn off, while Shchikin himself is missing, the relatives said. His body hasn't been recovered. Shchikin's relatives said when they asked the defence ministry for answers about his fate, it either didn't respond or didn't give any definitive answers. "They were from a Storm unit. For them, no one is going to be in a rush," said one relative. Reuters was unable to independently confirm the relatives' account of events. Drunk on duty, using drugs While convicts form the core of the penal squads, some regular soldiers have been assigned to them as punishment for breaking discipline, according to two soldiers who said members of their units had been transferred in this way, as well as a Storm-Z fighter called Igor, a convict jailed for attempted murder. The two soldiers, including the one from unit no. 40318, said officers had sent soldiers to Storm-Z for being drunk on duty, for using drugs, and for refusing to carry out orders. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Truck-mounted Caesar Howitzers for Ukraine × According to Russian legislation on military discipline, a soldier can only be transferred to a penal unit if convicted by a military court. None of the people who told Reuters of soldiers being sent to Storm-Z said the men had participated in a court hearing. Contacted last week, the soldier from unit no. 40318 said there were no court hearings involved in such transfers, and Igor, the Storm-Z fighter, said he had no knowledge of court hearings having taken place. The Geneva convention, a set of international rules of war, doesn't cover soldiers being punished by their own side. Revolt of Storm-Z fighters One group of about 20 Storm-Z fighters in Zaporizhzhia, who were part of unit number 22179, decided they'd had enough of their treatment, refused an order to go back to the frontline, and recorded a June 28 video complaining about their treatment. Reuters called numbers listed for the unit, but they were out of operation. "On the frontline, where we've been, we did not get deliveries of ammunition. We did not get water or food. The injured were not taken away: still now the dead are rotting," said a fighter in the video, whom Reuters was unable to identify. "We're given dreadful orders that are not even worth carrying out," he added. "We refuse to continue carrying out combat missions." Reuters established the identities of two of the fighters involved in the revolt, and spoke to a relative of each man who corroborated the account in the video, which was published on June 28 by Gulagu.net, a France-based campaign group for Russian prisoners' rights, and reviewed by Reuters. After the video was published, military police officers beat up the two fighters, and others in their squad, as punishment for their revolt, the two relatives said. Since then, they said the two fighters had told them that conditions had improved but they did not know when the men would be allowed to quit the military. Also read: Burger King continues to remain open in Russia even after pledge to exit Russian officials have made no public comment about the incident, and the defence ministry didn't reply to Reuters queries. The family member of one of the soldiers in the revolt, a man from Siberia who had volunteered to join Storm-Z from prison, said she dreaded news from the front. "My God, let this end soon," she said of the war. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia's 'Storm-Z' squads: Tale of hundreds of offenders sent to frontlines to fight Ukraine

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin was on Friday (Sep 29) and was seen meeting Andrei Troshev, who is one of the most senior former commanders of the Wagner mercenary group. State media reported that the Russian leader discussed how best to use "volunteer units" in the Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Kremlin statement noted that Putin has tasked Troshev, the former aide of late Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, to oversee volunteer fighter units in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin was quoted as telling Troshev, "At the last meeting we talked about you overseeing the formation of volunteer units that can carry out various tasks, first and foremost of course in the zone of the special military operation."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-president-volodymyr-zelensky-keen-on-india-visit-later-this-year-640807">Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky 'keen' to visit India later this year</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Deputy Defence Minister Yunus-Bek Yevkurov also attended the meeting, which highlighted the Kremlin's attempt to demonstrate that the state had regained control of the mercenary force following a failed coup in June by Prigozhin, who died with nine other people when a plane flying from Moscow to Saint Petersburg crashed on August 23.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, who has travelled over recent months to several countries where Wagner mercenaries have worked, was also present, sitting closest to Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Kremlin, the meeting took place late on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said during the meeting that they had spoken about how "volunteer units that can perform various combat tasks, above all, of course, in the zone of the special military operation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said, "You yourself have been fighting in such a unit for more than a year. You know what it is, how it is done, you know about the issues that need to be resolved in advance so that the combat work goes in the best and most successful way."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-vladimir-putin-meets-chechen-warlord-ramzan-kadyrov-believed-to-be-in-coma-640937">Russia’s Vladimir Putin meets Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov believed to be in coma</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch this video:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>What does this meeting indicate?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>A report by the news agency Reuters said that the meeting appears to indicate that Troshev and Yevkurov will now supervise what remains of Wagner, which originally had tens of thousands of soldiers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year on Feb 24, Wagner gained prominence for its May capture of the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. Wagner's forces withdrew from Ukraine following Bakhmut's defeat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian sources have told Reuters that some of the Wagner fighters have signed up for service with the formal Russian army while many others have moved into different private military companies (PMCs).&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin was on Friday (Sep 29) and was seen meeting Andrei Troshev, who is one of the most senior former commanders of the Wagner mercenary group.

Russian President Vladimir Putin was on Friday (Sep 29) and was seen meeting Andrei Troshev, who is one of the most senior former commanders of the Wagner mercenary group. State media reported that the Russian leader discussed how best to use "volunteer units" in the Ukraine war. A Kremlin statement noted that Putin has tasked Troshev, the former aide of late Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, to oversee volunteer fighter units in Ukraine. Putin was quoted as telling Troshev, "At the last meeting we talked about you overseeing the formation of volunteer units that can carry out various tasks, first and foremost of course in the zone of the special military operation." Also read: Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky 'keen' to visit India later this year Deputy Defence Minister Yunus-Bek Yevkurov also attended the meeting, which highlighted the Kremlin's attempt to demonstrate that the state had regained control of the mercenary force following a failed coup in June by Prigozhin, who died with nine other people when a plane flying from Moscow to Saint Petersburg crashed on August 23. Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, who has travelled over recent months to several countries where Wagner mercenaries have worked, was also present, sitting closest to Putin. According to the Kremlin, the meeting took place late on Thursday. Putin said during the meeting that they had spoken about how "volunteer units that can perform various combat tasks, above all, of course, in the zone of the special military operation." Putin said, "You yourself have been fighting in such a unit for more than a year. You know what it is, how it is done, you know about the issues that need to be resolved in advance so that the combat work goes in the best and most successful way." Also read: Russia’s Vladimir Putin meets Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov believed to be in coma Watch this video: × What does this meeting indicate? A report by the news agency Reuters said that the meeting appears to indicate that Troshev and Yevkurov will now supervise what remains of Wagner, which originally had tens of thousands of soldiers. During the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year on Feb 24, Wagner gained prominence for its May capture of the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. Wagner's forces withdrew from Ukraine following Bakhmut's defeat. Russian sources have told Reuters that some of the Wagner fighters have signed up for service with the formal Russian army while many others have moved into different private military companies (PMCs). Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin discusses Ukraine war with former Prigozhin aide. What does this indicate?

<p>Ukraine claimed on Monday (September 25) that Russia launched a major aerial attack on southern Ukraine overnight, hitting Odesa port and destroying grain stores.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian Defence Forces of the South of the nation said on the messaging platform Telegram that Russia "attacked the south of the country again".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Odesa region governor Oleh Kiper&nbsp;said that the facilities that were hit had contained almost 1,000 tonnes&nbsp;of grain and that the bodies of two men were found under the rubble.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-russia-intentionally-starve-ukraine-new-war-crime-dossier-to-the-icc-to-provide-damning-evidence-639290">Did Russia intentionally starve Ukraine? New war crime dossier to the ICC to provide damning evidence</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The south command of Ukraine's armed forces said that the "seaport in Odesa suffered significant damage, a fire broke out in the port's hotel, which has not been functioning for several years".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Firefighters promptly eliminated it," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇷🇺<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> bombed the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kempinski?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kempinski</a> Hotel in Port City of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Odesa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Odesa</a><br />
south 🇺🇦<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://t.co/gSq3D91so3">pic.twitter.com/gSq3D91so3</a></p>
— C4H10FO2P ☠️ (@markito0171) <a href="https://twitter.com/markito0171/status/1706091913080627624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This night.<br />
Odesa.<br />
RuZZia attacked with 19 Shahed drones, 2 supersonic rockets &amp; 12 cruise missiles..<br />
Part of port &amp; tourist infrastructure hit &amp; destroyed.<br />
More airdefense capabilities R crutical. Counting on prompt partner support.<br />
But main thing - monster RU has 2Bstopped! <a href="https://t.co/WkSmZBPgdl">pic.twitter.com/WkSmZBPgdl</a></p>
— Ivanna Klympush (@IKlympush) <a href="https://twitter.com/IKlympush/status/1706201872153899088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/satellite-images-hint-at-expansion-of-nuclear-test-sites-in-us-russia-and-china-report-639168">Satellite images hint at expansion of nuclear test sites in US, Russia and China: Report</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Ukraine also claims that Moscow has increased such attacks on major Ukrainian ports and grain facilities since Russia quit a deal that enabled Ukraine to export grain via the Black Sea safely.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nataliya Gumenyuk, who is the spokeswoman for the Ukrainian Southern military command, said on Telegram that Russia was apparently "trying to test out the density of the air defence".</p>

<p>"They understand that port infrastructure is a priority for our region, and that it is reliably protected. However, that is why the attack that occurred tonight was both massive and by combined means," she added.&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>Use of supersonic and cruise missiles</strong></h2>

<p>The Defence Forces of the South of Ukraine claimed Russia launched a total of 19 drones and besides that, it directed two Onyx supersonic missiles and fired 12 Kalibr cruise missiles at Odesa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kalibrs were launched from a ship and a submarine, the Ukrainian air force claimed, further adding that all 19 Shaheds and 11 Kalibrs were shot down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The southern defence forces said that Russia "hit the port infrastructure" in Odesa, which "suffered significant damage".&nbsp;</p>

<p>They added that "Onyx missiles destroyed granaries. But people were not hurt".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukraine claimed on Monday (September 25) that Russia launched a major aerial attack on southern Ukraine overnight, hitting Odesa port and destroying grain stores.

Ukraine claimed on Monday (September 25) that Russia launched a major aerial attack on southern Ukraine overnight, hitting Odesa port and destroying grain stores. Ukrainian Defence Forces of the South of the nation said on the messaging platform Telegram that Russia "attacked the south of the country again". The Odesa region governor Oleh Kiper said that the facilities that were hit had contained almost 1,000 tonnes of grain and that the bodies of two men were found under the rubble. Also read: Did Russia intentionally starve Ukraine? New war crime dossier to the ICC to provide damning evidence The south command of Ukraine's armed forces said that the "seaport in Odesa suffered significant damage, a fire broke out in the port's hotel, which has not been functioning for several years". "Firefighters promptly eliminated it," it added. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. 🇷🇺#Russia bombed the #Kempinski Hotel in Port City of #Odesa south 🇺🇦#Ukraine pic.twitter.com/gSq3D91so3 — C4H10FO2P ☠️ (@markito0171) September 24, 2023 × This night. Odesa. RuZZia attacked with 19 Shahed drones, 2 supersonic rockets & 12 cruise missiles.. Part of port & tourist infrastructure hit & destroyed. More airdefense capabilities R crutical. Counting on prompt partner support. But main thing - monster RU has 2Bstopped! pic.twitter.com/WkSmZBPgdl — Ivanna Klympush (@IKlympush) September 25, 2023 × Also read: Satellite images hint at expansion of nuclear test sites in US, Russia and China: Report Ukraine also claims that Moscow has increased such attacks on major Ukrainian ports and grain facilities since Russia quit a deal that enabled Ukraine to export grain via the Black Sea safely. Nataliya Gumenyuk, who is the spokeswoman for the Ukrainian Southern military command, said on Telegram that Russia was apparently "trying to test out the density of the air defence". "They understand that port infrastructure is a priority for our region, and that it is reliably protected. However, that is why the attack that occurred tonight was both massive and by combined means," she added. × Use of supersonic and cruise missiles The Defence Forces of the South of Ukraine claimed Russia launched a total of 19 drones and besides that, it directed two Onyx supersonic missiles and fired 12 Kalibr cruise missiles at Odesa. The Kalibrs were launched from a ship and a submarine, the Ukrainian air force claimed, further adding that all 19 Shaheds and 11 Kalibrs were shot down. The southern defence forces said that Russia "hit the port infrastructure" in Odesa, which "suffered significant damage". They added that "Onyx missiles destroyed granaries. But people were not hurt". Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Major Russian attack on Odesa port kills two, damages port, Ukraine claims

<p>The army of Ukraine crossed the Russian lines in southern Ukraine, said the general who is leading the counteroffensive while speaking to the US media this weekend amid the latest claims made by Ukraine that it is making progress in the Zaporizhzhia area.<br />
<br />
The counteroffensive was launched by Ukraine to take back territory from Russian forces in June.<br />
<br />
The progress of the Ukrainian army has been slower than expected because of the heavily mined territory, however, in recent weeks Kyiv reported making strategic advances in the Zaporizhzhia region.<br />
<br />
"On the left flank (near the village of Verbove) we have a breakthrough and we continue to advance further," said General Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, while speaking to CNN.<br />
<br />
He further acknowledged that the army's advance has been slower than what was hoped by Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-senior-leadership-among-dead-injured-in-ukraine-strike-on-black-sea-fleet-638887">Russian senior leadership among dead, injured in Black Sea fleet headquarters strike: Ukraine</a><br />
<br />
"Not as fast as it was expected, not like in the movies about the Second World War," he stated in the CNN interview.<br />
<br />
However, he stated that it is important "not to lose this initiative". A strategic victory was declared by Kyiv last month when it successfully recaptured the southern village of Robotyne.<br />
<br />
Tarnavskiy stated that the counteroffensive's major breakthrough will be when Kyiv recaptures the city of Tokmak, around 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the front line.</p>

<p>He added that retaking Tokmak would help Ukrainian forces in pushing towards occupied Melitopol and annexed Crimea.<br />
<br />
"I think it (a breakthrough) would happen after Tokmak," he stated, further warning, "At the moment (Russian forces) are relying on the depth of their defensive line there."<br />
<br />
Tarnavskiy then disagreed with a few predictions that the push by Ukraine could sloe down more in the coming months due to winter.<br />
<br />
"The weather can be a serious obstacle during the advance, but considering how we move forward, mostly without vehicles, I don't think (it) will heavily influence the counteroffensive," he stated.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's heavy artillery inflicting 'hell'</strong></h2>

<p>The heavy weapons, which were supplied by the West, in the battle taking place on the outskirts of Bakhmut, has led to a significant toll on Russia's lines, said Ukrainian commanders while speaking to Reuters.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Are Ukraine's allies abandoning Zelensky?</strong></p>

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<p>Unit commander Oleksandr said that the armed forces of Ukraine "very much rely" on heavy artillery, which includes the U.S.-made M109 self-propelled howitzer and the Polish-made Krab gun.<br />
<br />
"Even one gun can completely turn the situation around. An attack can be stopped with one such gun. The main thing is to aim where needed. They (the Russians) hate our hardware. That's what we gather from our intercepts. We hear that we keep giving them hell and they keep wondering how much ammunition we have left,” he said.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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The army of Ukraine crossed the Russian lines in southern Ukraine, said the general who is leading the counteroffensive while speaking to the US media this weekend amid the latest claims made by Ukraine that it is making progress in the Zaporizhzhia area.

The army of Ukraine crossed the Russian lines in southern Ukraine, said the general who is leading the counteroffensive while speaking to the US media this weekend amid the latest claims made by Ukraine that it is making progress in the Zaporizhzhia area. The counteroffensive was launched by Ukraine to take back territory from Russian forces in June. The progress of the Ukrainian army has been slower than expected because of the heavily mined territory, however, in recent weeks Kyiv reported making strategic advances in the Zaporizhzhia region. "On the left flank (near the village of Verbove) we have a breakthrough and we continue to advance further," said General Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, while speaking to CNN. He further acknowledged that the army's advance has been slower than what was hoped by Ukraine. ALSO READ | Russian senior leadership among dead, injured in Black Sea fleet headquarters strike: Ukraine "Not as fast as it was expected, not like in the movies about the Second World War," he stated in the CNN interview. However, he stated that it is important "not to lose this initiative". A strategic victory was declared by Kyiv last month when it successfully recaptured the southern village of Robotyne. Tarnavskiy stated that the counteroffensive's major breakthrough will be when Kyiv recaptures the city of Tokmak, around 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the front line. He added that retaking Tokmak would help Ukrainian forces in pushing towards occupied Melitopol and annexed Crimea. "I think it (a breakthrough) would happen after Tokmak," he stated, further warning, "At the moment (Russian forces) are relying on the depth of their defensive line there." Tarnavskiy then disagreed with a few predictions that the push by Ukraine could sloe down more in the coming months due to winter. "The weather can be a serious obstacle during the advance, but considering how we move forward, mostly without vehicles, I don't think (it) will heavily influence the counteroffensive," he stated. Ukraine's heavy artillery inflicting 'hell' The heavy weapons, which were supplied by the West, in the battle taking place on the outskirts of Bakhmut, has led to a significant toll on Russia's lines, said Ukrainian commanders while speaking to Reuters. WATCH | Are Ukraine's allies abandoning Zelensky? Unit commander Oleksandr said that the armed forces of Ukraine "very much rely" on heavy artillery, which includes the U.S.-made M109 self-propelled howitzer and the Polish-made Krab gun. "Even one gun can completely turn the situation around. An attack can be stopped with one such gun. The main thing is to aim where needed. They (the Russians) hate our hardware. That's what we gather from our intercepts. We hear that we keep giving them hell and they keep wondering how much ammunition we have left,” he said. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukrainian army breaks through Russian lines in south, claims general

The controversial cluster bombs which were supplied by the united states of America to Ukraine are now being used against the Russian military positions according to the white house Kyiv is using these cluster munitions quite effectively. How will the use of cluster munitions impact the ongoing war?

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine's new cluster munition death pass Syria

<p>Referring to the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) chief Jens Stoltenberg issued a warning that the nations must prepare for a long war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an interview published on Sunday (September 17), Stoltenberg said that there would be no swift end to the Ukraine war, which started last year in February.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Stoltenberg said in an interview with Germany's Funke media group that "most wars last longer than expected when they first begin. Therefore we must prepare ourselves for a long war in Ukraine."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-defence-min-shows-bombers-and-missiles-to-kim-during-last-leg-of-trip-636492">Russia’s defence min shows bombers and missiles to Kim during last leg of trip</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>His warning comes amid Kyiv started a counteroffensive in June, pushing back against entrenched Russian positions in the south and east, but it has made only modest progress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In fact, the United Kingdom defence ministry claimed that Russia will most likely be able to assemble a significant stockpile of air-launched cruise missiles to use them to strike Ukrainian infrastructure over the coming winter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are all wishing for a quick peace. But at the same time, we must recognise: if President (Volodymyr) Zelensky and the Ukrainians stop fighting, their country will no longer exist," said Stoltenberg.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If President (Vladimir) Putin and Russia lay down their weapons, we will have peace."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>&nbsp;Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/north-koreas-kim-inspects-west-sanctioned-fighter-jet-plant-in-russian-far-east-636398">North Korea's Kim inspects West-sanctioned fighter jet plant in Russian Far East</a></strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Putin-Kim Summit | Russia-Ukraine war</strong></p>

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<p>While speaking about Ukraine's ambitions to join the NATO alliance, Stoltenberg said: "There is no doubt that Ukraine will eventually be in NATO."</p>

<p>Kyiv had "moved closer to NATO" at a summit of the alliance in July, he said, further adding that "when this war ends, we need security guarantees for Ukraine. Otherwise, history could repeat itself".&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the July summit in Vilnius, NATO leaders agreed that Ukraine could join the alliance once certain conditions are met, and US and German officials made it clear that these would include Kyiv carrying out reforms to protect democracy and the rule of law.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Referring to the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) chief Jens Stoltenberg issued a warning that the nations must prepare for a long war.

Referring to the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) chief Jens Stoltenberg issued a warning that the nations must prepare for a long war. In an interview published on Sunday (September 17), Stoltenberg said that there would be no swift end to the Ukraine war, which started last year in February. Stoltenberg said in an interview with Germany's Funke media group that "most wars last longer than expected when they first begin. Therefore we must prepare ourselves for a long war in Ukraine." Also read: Russia’s defence min shows bombers and missiles to Kim during last leg of trip His warning comes amid Kyiv started a counteroffensive in June, pushing back against entrenched Russian positions in the south and east, but it has made only modest progress. In fact, the United Kingdom defence ministry claimed that Russia will most likely be able to assemble a significant stockpile of air-launched cruise missiles to use them to strike Ukrainian infrastructure over the coming winter. "We are all wishing for a quick peace. But at the same time, we must recognise: if President (Volodymyr) Zelensky and the Ukrainians stop fighting, their country will no longer exist," said Stoltenberg. "If President (Vladimir) Putin and Russia lay down their weapons, we will have peace." Also read: North Korea's Kim inspects West-sanctioned fighter jet plant in Russian Far East Watch: Putin-Kim Summit | Russia-Ukraine war × While speaking about Ukraine's ambitions to join the NATO alliance, Stoltenberg said: "There is no doubt that Ukraine will eventually be in NATO." Kyiv had "moved closer to NATO" at a summit of the alliance in July, he said, further adding that "when this war ends, we need security guarantees for Ukraine. Otherwise, history could repeat itself". At the July summit in Vilnius, NATO leaders agreed that Ukraine could join the alliance once certain conditions are met, and US and German officials made it clear that these would include Kyiv carrying out reforms to protect democracy and the rule of law. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia vs Ukraine: NATO chief warns 'we must prepare for long war'

<p>Ukraine claimed on Sunday (September 17) that its forces had retaken Klishchiivka, a key town south of the key frontline city of Bakhmut. This comes amid Kyiv's ongoing counter-attack against Moscow's offensive against the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed the soldiers for recapturing Klishchiivka, which was captured by Russia in January.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky said, "Today I would like to particularly commend the soldiers who, step by step, are returning to Ukraine what belongs to it namely in the area of Bakhmut."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"80th Airborne Assault Brigade, 5th Separate Assault Brigade, glorious 95th, and Joint Assault Brigade of the National Police "Liut". Klishchiivka! Well done!" he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-nato-chief-warns-we-must-prepare-for-long-war-636854">Russia-Ukraine war: NATO chief warns 'we must prepare for long war'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>According to the Ukrainian military, the troops "achieved success" in the Klishchiivka district of the Donetsk region on the southern flank of Bakhmut and forced the enemy out of their positions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As Zelensky prepares his second wartime visit to Washington next week in a bid to rally support, he claimed that Kyiv was "preparing new defence solutions for Ukraine".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian president said that the "air defence and artillery are the priority", without providing details.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Klishchiivka&nbsp;was home to several hundred people before Moscow launched its offensive in February 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-to-face-off-at-international-court-of-justice-over-genocide-claims-636923">Russia, Ukraine to face off at International Court of Justice over genocide claims</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Klishchiivka. I thank our warriors for liberating our land.<br />
<br />
The 80th Air Assault, 5th Assault, and the renowned 95th Air Assault brigades, as well as the National Police's "Fury" Assault Brigade.<br />
<br />
I thank everyone who is standing strong from Kupiansk to the left bank of Kherson! <a href="https://t.co/ZkLakPhMOH">pic.twitter.com/ZkLakPhMOH</a></p>
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1703474879314407676?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ilya Yevlash, who is the spokesman for Ukrainian troops in the east, said that control over Klishchiivka could help the Ukrainian army encircle Bakhmut, captured by Russian forces in May after one of the war's longest and bloodiest battles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a televised statement, Yevlash said: "We have now gained a staging ground, which will in the future allow us to continue to develop offensive actions and liberate our land from the occupiers."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukraine claimed on Sunday (September 17) that its forces had retaken Klishchiivka, a key town south of the key frontline city of Bakhmut. This comes amid Kyiv's ongoing counter-attack against Moscow's offensive against the country.

Ukraine claimed on Sunday (September 17) that its forces had retaken Klishchiivka, a key town south of the key frontline city of Bakhmut. This comes amid Kyiv's ongoing counter-attack against Moscow's offensive against the country. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed the soldiers for recapturing Klishchiivka, which was captured by Russia in January. Zelensky said, "Today I would like to particularly commend the soldiers who, step by step, are returning to Ukraine what belongs to it namely in the area of Bakhmut." "80th Airborne Assault Brigade, 5th Separate Assault Brigade, glorious 95th, and Joint Assault Brigade of the National Police "Liut". Klishchiivka! Well done!" he added. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: NATO chief warns 'we must prepare for long war' According to the Ukrainian military, the troops "achieved success" in the Klishchiivka district of the Donetsk region on the southern flank of Bakhmut and forced the enemy out of their positions. As Zelensky prepares his second wartime visit to Washington next week in a bid to rally support, he claimed that Kyiv was "preparing new defence solutions for Ukraine". The Ukrainian president said that the "air defence and artillery are the priority", without providing details. Klishchiivka was home to several hundred people before Moscow launched its offensive in February 2022. Also read: Russia, Ukraine to face off at International Court of Justice over genocide claims Klishchiivka. I thank our warriors for liberating our land. The 80th Air Assault, 5th Assault, and the renowned 95th Air Assault brigades, as well as the National Police's "Fury" Assault Brigade. I thank everyone who is standing strong from Kupiansk to the left bank of Kherson! pic.twitter.com/ZkLakPhMOH — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) September 17, 2023 × Watch: Putin-Kim Summit | Russia-Ukraine war × Ilya Yevlash, who is the spokesman for Ukrainian troops in the east, said that control over Klishchiivka could help the Ukrainian army encircle Bakhmut, captured by Russian forces in May after one of the war's longest and bloodiest battles. In a televised statement, Yevlash said: "We have now gained a staging ground, which will in the future allow us to continue to develop offensive actions and liberate our land from the occupiers." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zelensky praises soldiers as Ukraine claims control of key town on eastern front

<p>Poland on Sunday (September 17) started enforcement of a European Union ban on all Russian-registered passenger cars which sought entry in the country. This is the latest in a series of sanctions taken against Russia after it invaded Ukraine.<br />
<br />
As per the decision of the EU, motor vehicles which have been registered in the Russian Federation will no longer be allowed to enter the 27-member bloc.<br />
<br />
“A car registered in Russia has no right to enter Poland,” said Polish Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski on Saturday, while announcing the ban which came into effect hours later at midnight.<br />
<br />
“This is another element of the sanctions imposed on Russia and its citizens in connection with the brutal war in Ukraine, due to the fact that the Russian state today constitutes a threat to international security,” said Kaminski.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-ukrainian-drone-shot-down-near-moscow-six-others-over-crimea-russia-636741">Ukrainian drone shot down near Moscow, six others over Crimea: Russia</a></p>

<p>The step was adopted just days after vehicles with Russian licence plates were banned from entering the territory of the Baltic states of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia – a joint move which was in accordance with the recent interpretation of the sanctions imposed by the EU on Moscow.<br />
<br />
The Baltic states and Poland have remained the most vocal European critics of Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>European Commission's sanctions are 'racist': Russia</strong></h2>

<p>Deputy head of Russia’s Security Council Dmitry Medvedev on Tuesday (September 12) denounced the move of the European Commission as racist. He stated that Moscow could retaliate by recalling its diplomats from Brussels and cutting diplomatic ties with the EU.<br />
<br />
Poland shares a border with Kaliningrad, a Russian territory which is an exclave separated from the Russian mainland. The Border Guard agency stated that the ban would remain the same and would not vary from border to border.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Trump says had he been in office, Russia-Ukraine War wouldn't have begun | World news | WION</strong></p>

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<p>Along with Kaliningrad, Poland has Ukraine and Belarus on its eastern borders. Otherwise, the country is bordered by NATO allies Germany, Slovakia, Czechia, Lithuania and the EU, where they do not have any border checks.<br />
<br />
The website of the Border Guard stated that Russian-tagged cars “will be returned to the non-EU country from which they came, regardless of whether it is Russia or another country. Such actions will be carried out even if the driver of the car is not a citizen of the Russian Federation.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Poland on Sunday (September 17) started enforcement of a European Union ban on all Russian-registered passenger cars which sought entry in the country. This is the latest in a series of sanctions taken against Russia after it invaded Ukraine.

Poland on Sunday (September 17) started enforcement of a European Union ban on all Russian-registered passenger cars which sought entry in the country. This is the latest in a series of sanctions taken against Russia after it invaded Ukraine. As per the decision of the EU, motor vehicles which have been registered in the Russian Federation will no longer be allowed to enter the 27-member bloc. “A car registered in Russia has no right to enter Poland,” said Polish Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski on Saturday, while announcing the ban which came into effect hours later at midnight. “This is another element of the sanctions imposed on Russia and its citizens in connection with the brutal war in Ukraine, due to the fact that the Russian state today constitutes a threat to international security,” said Kaminski. ALSO READ | Ukrainian drone shot down near Moscow, six others over Crimea: Russia The step was adopted just days after vehicles with Russian licence plates were banned from entering the territory of the Baltic states of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia – a joint move which was in accordance with the recent interpretation of the sanctions imposed by the EU on Moscow. The Baltic states and Poland have remained the most vocal European critics of Russian President Vladimir Putin. European Commission's sanctions are 'racist': Russia Deputy head of Russia’s Security Council Dmitry Medvedev on Tuesday (September 12) denounced the move of the European Commission as racist. He stated that Moscow could retaliate by recalling its diplomats from Brussels and cutting diplomatic ties with the EU. Poland shares a border with Kaliningrad, a Russian territory which is an exclave separated from the Russian mainland. The Border Guard agency stated that the ban would remain the same and would not vary from border to border. WATCH | Trump says had he been in office, Russia-Ukraine War wouldn't have begun | World news | WION Along with Kaliningrad, Poland has Ukraine and Belarus on its eastern borders. Otherwise, the country is bordered by NATO allies Germany, Slovakia, Czechia, Lithuania and the EU, where they do not have any border checks. The website of the Border Guard stated that Russian-tagged cars “will be returned to the non-EU country from which they came, regardless of whether it is Russia or another country. Such actions will be carried out even if the driver of the car is not a citizen of the Russian Federation.” (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Poland begins enforcement of European Union ban on cars registered in Russia

<p>Russia’s Ministry of Defence said Sunday that its forces shot down one Ukrainian drone over the outskirts of Moscow and at least six others over Crimea.</p>

<p>At around 1:45 am (04:15 am IST on Sunday) one drone was intercepted over Moscow's Istrinsky district, the defence ministry said in a Telegram post.</p>

<p>“According to preliminary data, there was no damage or casualties at the site where the debris fell," Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin wrote in a separate Telegram post.</p>

<p>"Emergency services specialists are working at the scene,” he added.</p>

<p>Around the same time, six other drones were detected and destroyed over the Crimean peninsula, the ministry said.</p>

<h2><strong>Five killed in Donetsk</strong></h2>

<p>Russia-installed government in the Donetsk region on Saturday said at least five civilians lost their lives due to intense shelling by Ukrainian forces.</p>

<p>The five were killed in the Kirov and Kuibyshevskyi districts and a woman was injured in Svetlodarsk, Denis Pushilin, the Russian-appointed head of the region, wrote on the Telegram messaging app.</p>

<p>The General Staff of Ukraine’s Armed Forces on Saturday also said heavy fighting took place with Russian forces, as he claimed partial success in Kyiv’s campaign to reclaim land lost to Russia in the 19-month-long war.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia possibly stockpiling missiles</strong></h2>

<p>The UK’s defence ministry said on Saturday that Russia was most likely stockpiling air-launched cruise missiles ahead of winter onslaught to target Ukrainian infrastructure.</p>

<p>The ministry also quoted intelligence input to claim that Russia might deploy strategic bombers to fire these missiles at Ukraine from deep within Russian territory.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine using custom made rocket launchers against Russia</strong></p>

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<p>In a post shared on X, the defence ministry said: "Open source reports suggest that since April 2023, ALCM expenditure rates have reduced, while Russian leaders have highlighted efforts to increase the rate of cruise missile production."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Russia is therefore likely able to generate a significant stockpile of ALCMs. There is a realistic possibility Russia will again focus these weapons against Ukrainian infrastructure targets over the winter," it added.</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky-Biden meet</strong></h2>

<p>The White House announced Friday (September 15) that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will pay his second wartime visit to Washington next week, in a bid to solidify the support of his country's crucial ally. The US has already shipped billions of dollars in aid to fight Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-moscow-likely-boosting-capacity-for-winter-onslaught-says-uk-636574"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow boosting its arsenal, capacity for winter onslaught, says UK</strong></a></p>

<p>Zelensky will travel to the White House on Thursday for talks with President Joe Biden and also hold meetings at the US Congress, where elements of the rival Republican Party are hesitant as Biden seeks to push through a major new package for Kyiv.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

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Russia’s Ministry of Defence said Sunday that its forces shot down one Ukrainian drone over the outskirts of Moscow and at least six others over Crimea. At around 1:45 am (04:15 am IST on Sunday) one drone was intercepted over Moscow's Istrinsky district, the defence ministry said in a Telegram post.

Russia’s Ministry of Defence said Sunday that its forces shot down one Ukrainian drone over the outskirts of Moscow and at least six others over Crimea. At around 1:45 am (04:15 am IST on Sunday) one drone was intercepted over Moscow's Istrinsky district, the defence ministry said in a Telegram post. “According to preliminary data, there was no damage or casualties at the site where the debris fell," Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin wrote in a separate Telegram post. "Emergency services specialists are working at the scene,” he added. Around the same time, six other drones were detected and destroyed over the Crimean peninsula, the ministry said. Five killed in Donetsk Russia-installed government in the Donetsk region on Saturday said at least five civilians lost their lives due to intense shelling by Ukrainian forces. The five were killed in the Kirov and Kuibyshevskyi districts and a woman was injured in Svetlodarsk, Denis Pushilin, the Russian-appointed head of the region, wrote on the Telegram messaging app. The General Staff of Ukraine’s Armed Forces on Saturday also said heavy fighting took place with Russian forces, as he claimed partial success in Kyiv’s campaign to reclaim land lost to Russia in the 19-month-long war. Russia possibly stockpiling missiles The UK’s defence ministry said on Saturday that Russia was most likely stockpiling air-launched cruise missiles ahead of winter onslaught to target Ukrainian infrastructure. The ministry also quoted intelligence input to claim that Russia might deploy strategic bombers to fire these missiles at Ukraine from deep within Russian territory. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine using custom made rocket launchers against Russia × In a post shared on X, the defence ministry said: "Open source reports suggest that since April 2023, ALCM expenditure rates have reduced, while Russian leaders have highlighted efforts to increase the rate of cruise missile production." "Russia is therefore likely able to generate a significant stockpile of ALCMs. There is a realistic possibility Russia will again focus these weapons against Ukrainian infrastructure targets over the winter," it added. Zelensky-Biden meet The White House announced Friday (September 15) that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will pay his second wartime visit to Washington next week, in a bid to solidify the support of his country's crucial ally. The US has already shipped billions of dollars in aid to fight Russia. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow boosting its arsenal, capacity for winter onslaught, says UK Zelensky will travel to the White House on Thursday for talks with President Joe Biden and also hold meetings at the US Congress, where elements of the rival Republican Party are hesitant as Biden seeks to push through a major new package for Kyiv. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukrainian drone shot down near Moscow, six others over Crimea: Russia

<p>Former United States president Donald Trump said that he appreciated the recent comments by Russian President Vladimir Putin about him. In an interview with NBC, Trump said it meant "what I'm saying is right," referring to his stance on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, Putin called the legal proceedings against former Trump as a political witch hunt and said that the actions taken against him were politically driven persecution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by news agencies, Putin had said at an economic forum in the far eastern city of Vladivostok: "As for the persecution of Trump, for us, in the current environment, it's good because it shows the rottenness of the American system. It is a politically motivated persecution of one's competitor."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-believed-narayana-murthy-was-helping-rishi-sunak-to-become-uk-pm-reveals-new-book-636519">Boris Johnson 'believed' Narayana Murthy was helping Rishi Sunak to become UK PM, claims new book</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>This is not the first time, Russia has often spoken out in defence of the former US president, who is facing a series of charges linked to election interference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, during the interview, Trump responded: "I like that he said that because that means what I'm saying is right. I would get him into a room, I would get [Ukrainian President] Zelensky into a room and I would get a deal worked out."&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking about the war, which started last year in February, Trump said that he would resolve the war within 24 hours if re-elected president. He has repeatedly said that he could quickly end the war, but never revealed how.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-moscow-likely-boosting-capacity-for-winter-onslaught-says-uk-636574">Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow boosting its arsenal, capacity for winter onslaught, says UK</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;United Auto Workers Union launch strikes at three factories&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Trump said in the interview "if I tell you exactly, I lose all my bargaining chips. I mean, you can't really say exactly what you're going to do. But I would say certain things to Putin. I would say certain things to Zelensky".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Relations between Washington and Moscow, strained by a litany of issues under Putin, have hit new lows since the Kremlin launched large-scale hostilities in Ukraine last year.</p>

<p>Putin said he did not expect any change in the US foreign policy stance towards Russia regardless of "whoever will be elected president" next year. He accused Washington of stoking anti-Russian feelings among ordinary Americans.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Former United States president Donald Trump said that he appreciated the recent comments by Russian President Vladimir Putin about him. In an interview with NBC, Trump said it meant "what I'm saying is right," referring to his stance on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

Former United States president Donald Trump said that he appreciated the recent comments by Russian President Vladimir Putin about him. In an interview with NBC, Trump said it meant "what I'm saying is right," referring to his stance on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Recently, Putin called the legal proceedings against former Trump as a political witch hunt and said that the actions taken against him were politically driven persecution. As quoted by news agencies, Putin had said at an economic forum in the far eastern city of Vladivostok: "As for the persecution of Trump, for us, in the current environment, it's good because it shows the rottenness of the American system. It is a politically motivated persecution of one's competitor." Also read: Boris Johnson 'believed' Narayana Murthy was helping Rishi Sunak to become UK PM, claims new book This is not the first time, Russia has often spoken out in defence of the former US president, who is facing a series of charges linked to election interference. Now, during the interview, Trump responded: "I like that he said that because that means what I'm saying is right. I would get him into a room, I would get [Ukrainian President] Zelensky into a room and I would get a deal worked out." While speaking about the war, which started last year in February, Trump said that he would resolve the war within 24 hours if re-elected president. He has repeatedly said that he could quickly end the war, but never revealed how. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow boosting its arsenal, capacity for winter onslaught, says UK Watch: United Auto Workers Union launch strikes at three factories × Trump said in the interview "if I tell you exactly, I lose all my bargaining chips. I mean, you can't really say exactly what you're going to do. But I would say certain things to Putin. I would say certain things to Zelensky". Relations between Washington and Moscow, strained by a litany of issues under Putin, have hit new lows since the Kremlin launched large-scale hostilities in Ukraine last year. Putin said he did not expect any change in the US foreign policy stance towards Russia regardless of "whoever will be elected president" next year. He accused Washington of stoking anti-Russian feelings among ordinary Americans. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Donald Trump welcomes Vladimir Putin's praise, says 'I like that he said that'

<p>The United Kingdom defence ministry claimed on Saturday (September 16) that Russia will most likely be able to assemble a significant stockpile of air-launched cruise missiles to use them to strike Ukrainian infrastructure over the coming winter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest intelligence update by the ministry suggests that the air-launched cruise missiles (ALCMs), particularly the modern AS-23a KODIAK, were central to most of Russia's long-range strikes against Ukraine's national energy infrastructure between October 2022 and March 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-defence-min-shows-bombers-and-missiles-to-kim-during-last-leg-of-trip-636492">Russia’s defence min shows bombers and missiles to Kim during last leg of trip</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The defence intelligence added that Moscow uses strategic bomber aircraft to release these munitions from deep within Russian territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a post shared on X, the defence ministry said: "Open source reports suggest that since April 2023, ALCM expenditure rates have reduced, while Russian leaders have highlighted efforts to increase the rate of cruise missile production."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Russia is therefore likely able to generate a significant stockpile of ALCMs. There is a realistic possibility Russia will again focus these weapons against Ukrainian infrastructure targets over the winter," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>&nbsp;Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/north-koreas-kim-inspects-west-sanctioned-fighter-jet-plant-in-russian-far-east-636398">North Korea's Kim inspects West-sanctioned fighter jet plant in Russian Far East</a></strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Zelensky to visit the White House&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>the White House announced Friday (September 15) that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will pay his second wartime visit to Washington next week, in a bid to solidify the support of his country's crucial ally. The US has already shipped billions of dollars in aid to fight Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky will travel to the White House on Thursday for talks with President Joe Biden and also hold meetings at the US Congress, where elements of the rival Republican Party are hesitant as Biden seeks to push through a major new package for Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden's national security adviser Jake Sullivan said that the trip comes at a "critical time" as Ukraine wages a counteroffensive against Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US president will reaffirm "his commitment to continuing to lead the world in supporting Ukraine as it defends its independence, its sovereignty and its territorial integrity," Sullivan told reporters.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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The United Kingdom defence ministry claimed on Saturday (September 16) that Russia will most likely be able to assemble a significant stockpile of air-launched cruise missiles to use them to strike Ukrainian infrastructure over the coming winter.

The United Kingdom defence ministry claimed on Saturday (September 16) that Russia will most likely be able to assemble a significant stockpile of air-launched cruise missiles to use them to strike Ukrainian infrastructure over the coming winter. The latest intelligence update by the ministry suggests that the air-launched cruise missiles (ALCMs), particularly the modern AS-23a KODIAK, were central to most of Russia's long-range strikes against Ukraine's national energy infrastructure between October 2022 and March 2023. Also read: Russia’s defence min shows bombers and missiles to Kim during last leg of trip The defence intelligence added that Moscow uses strategic bomber aircraft to release these munitions from deep within Russian territory. In a post shared on X, the defence ministry said: "Open source reports suggest that since April 2023, ALCM expenditure rates have reduced, while Russian leaders have highlighted efforts to increase the rate of cruise missile production." "Russia is therefore likely able to generate a significant stockpile of ALCMs. There is a realistic possibility Russia will again focus these weapons against Ukrainian infrastructure targets over the winter," it added. Also read: North Korea's Kim inspects West-sanctioned fighter jet plant in Russian Far East × Zelensky to visit the White House the White House announced Friday (September 15) that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will pay his second wartime visit to Washington next week, in a bid to solidify the support of his country's crucial ally. The US has already shipped billions of dollars in aid to fight Russia. Zelensky will travel to the White House on Thursday for talks with President Joe Biden and also hold meetings at the US Congress, where elements of the rival Republican Party are hesitant as Biden seeks to push through a major new package for Kyiv. Biden's national security adviser Jake Sullivan said that the trip comes at a "critical time" as Ukraine wages a counteroffensive against Russia. The US president will reaffirm "his commitment to continuing to lead the world in supporting Ukraine as it defends its independence, its sovereignty and its territorial integrity," Sullivan told reporters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow boosting its arsenal, capacity for winter onslaught, says UK

<p>The Ukrainian army&nbsp;on Friday (September 15) announced that they have “liberated” the village of Andriivka near the key frontline town of Bakhmut, which was captured by Russia in May. This comes a day after Ukrainian authorities ordered civilians in the Kherson region to evacuate due to regular bombings by Moscow’s army.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian troops capture eastern village</strong></h2>

<p>The announcement of the recapture of the village of Andriivka was made by the General Staff of Ukraine’s armed forces during his morning report, saying that Russian forces also suffered “significant” casualties and equipment losses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In the direction of Bakhmut, the enemy does not stop trying to break through the defence of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the area of Bogdanivka,” said the General Staff, on Facebook.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In the course of the assault, they liberated Andriivka in Donetsk region, inflicted significant losses on the enemy in terms of manpower and equipment, and entrenched at the occupied frontiers,” it added, while also reporting “partial success” near Klishchiivka village, south of Bakhmut.</p>

<p>Andriivka is around 14 kilometres south of the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, which has seen some of the longest and bloodiest battles during the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The announcement also comes a day after Ukraine’s Deputy Defence Minister, Hanna Maliar reported that Andriivka had been brought under Ukrainian control but later backtracked on the saying that the fighting was still raging around the village.</p>

<p>Speaking about the progress on the southern front General Staff spokesman Andriy Kovaliov said its troops were inflicting substantial losses on the enemy near the village of Verbove in the Zaporizhzhia region.</p>

<h2><strong>Civilians in Kherson ordered to evacuate </strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian Governor Oleksandr Prokudin took to Telegram, on Thursday (Sep 14) and said, “The Kherson Regional Defence Council has decided to compulsorily evacuate families with children from areas under constant enemy fire.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian official indicated that Kherson’s regional authorities were preparing for “emergency situations” ahead of winter regarding electricity supplies. Last year, Russia allegedly carried out massive strikes against the war-torn country’s infrastructure which plunged civilians into the cold and dark during sub-zero conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russian submarine suffered ‘catastrophic damage’ after Ukrainian strike: UK</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence, on Friday (September 15) said that a Ukrainian strike on Sevastopol naval base earlier this week inflicted “catastrophic damage” to a Russian submarine and destroyed a landing ship.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the British MoD, the Ukrainian attack on Wednesday (September 13) on the Sevmorzavod shipyard hit landing ship Minsk and Kilo 636.3-class submarine Rostov-na-Donu as the vessels were undergoing maintenance in dry docks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Despite the Russian Ministry of Defence downplaying the damage to the vessels, open-source evidence indicates the Minsk has almost certainly been functionally destroyed, while the Rostov has likely suffered catastrophic damage,” said the British MoD.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The British defence officials also said that it would take hundreds of millions of dollars and many years to fix the submarine, not to mention the “realistic possibility that the complex task of removing the wreckage from the dry docks will place them out of use for many months.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

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The Ukrainian army on Friday (September 15) announced that they have “liberated” the village of Andriivka near the key frontline town of Bakhmut, which was captured by Russia in May.

The Ukrainian army on Friday (September 15) announced that they have “liberated” the village of Andriivka near the key frontline town of Bakhmut, which was captured by Russia in May. This comes a day after Ukrainian authorities ordered civilians in the Kherson region to evacuate due to regular bombings by Moscow’s army. Ukrainian troops capture eastern village The announcement of the recapture of the village of Andriivka was made by the General Staff of Ukraine’s armed forces during his morning report, saying that Russian forces also suffered “significant” casualties and equipment losses. “In the direction of Bakhmut, the enemy does not stop trying to break through the defence of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the area of Bogdanivka,” said the General Staff, on Facebook. “In the course of the assault, they liberated Andriivka in Donetsk region, inflicted significant losses on the enemy in terms of manpower and equipment, and entrenched at the occupied frontiers,” it added, while also reporting “partial success” near Klishchiivka village, south of Bakhmut. Andriivka is around 14 kilometres south of the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, which has seen some of the longest and bloodiest battles during the war. The announcement also comes a day after Ukraine’s Deputy Defence Minister, Hanna Maliar reported that Andriivka had been brought under Ukrainian control but later backtracked on the saying that the fighting was still raging around the village. Speaking about the progress on the southern front General Staff spokesman Andriy Kovaliov said its troops were inflicting substantial losses on the enemy near the village of Verbove in the Zaporizhzhia region. Civilians in Kherson ordered to evacuate Ukrainian Governor Oleksandr Prokudin took to Telegram, on Thursday (Sep 14) and said, “The Kherson Regional Defence Council has decided to compulsorily evacuate families with children from areas under constant enemy fire.” The Ukrainian official indicated that Kherson’s regional authorities were preparing for “emergency situations” ahead of winter regarding electricity supplies. Last year, Russia allegedly carried out massive strikes against the war-torn country’s infrastructure which plunged civilians into the cold and dark during sub-zero conditions. Russian submarine suffered ‘catastrophic damage’ after Ukrainian strike: UK The United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence, on Friday (September 15) said that a Ukrainian strike on Sevastopol naval base earlier this week inflicted “catastrophic damage” to a Russian submarine and destroyed a landing ship. According to the British MoD, the Ukrainian attack on Wednesday (September 13) on the Sevmorzavod shipyard hit landing ship Minsk and Kilo 636.3-class submarine Rostov-na-Donu as the vessels were undergoing maintenance in dry docks. “Despite the Russian Ministry of Defence downplaying the damage to the vessels, open-source evidence indicates the Minsk has almost certainly been functionally destroyed, while the Rostov has likely suffered catastrophic damage,” said the British MoD. The British defence officials also said that it would take hundreds of millions of dollars and many years to fix the submarine, not to mention the “realistic possibility that the complex task of removing the wreckage from the dry docks will place them out of use for many months.” (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine claims to have ‘liberated’ Andriivka village near Bakhmut; evacuations ordered in Kherson

<p>Beijing has demanded clarification from a top Ukrainian official who earlier suggested that India and China lacked intellectual capabilities to calculate their national interests in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war.</p>

<p>China and India “don’t analyse the consequences of the steps they take,” said Mikhail Podoliak, the top aide to Ukrainian President Volodymyr&nbsp;Zelensky. In an interview, he also said that the two Asian powerhouses have “low intellectual potential.”</p>

<p>The advisor also accused both countries, along with Turkey, of “earning money” through the conflict.</p>

<p>A spokeswoman for the Chinese foreign ministry said Wednesday that the aide must clarify his remarks.</p>

<p>“I don’t know the background of this person’s remarks, but he should clarify them,” Mao Ning said.</p>

<p>Mao also reiterated that her country has maintained a “responsible” stance towards the conflict in Ukraine, while constantly calling for a cessation of hostilities and a political settlement to the crisis.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian advisor issues clarification</strong></h2>

<p>After the controversy erupted, the top Ukrainian official took to X, formerly Twitter, to explain what he meant by his earlier statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Podoliak said China, India and Turkey&nbsp;are “clearly justified” in claiming important roles on the international stage, but “the global world is much broader than even the most thoughtful regional national interests.”</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine military destroys 26 out of 33 drones launched by Russia</strong></p>

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<p>He also accused the Russian media of taking his earlier comments out of context and propagating what suits the Kremlin’s agenda.</p>

<p>Moscow, with which Ankara, New Delhi and Beijing maintain ties, is “demonstratively trying to undermine the foundations of the global world,” he added in his remarks.</p>

<h2><strong>Previous controversies</strong></h2>

<p>The comments made by Podoliak triggered a wave of criticism on Indian social media, with some users reiterating their support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-russia-launches-massive-attack-on-ports-of-danube-region-635723"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia`s `massive` drone attacks damaged infra at ports of Danube region, claims Ukraine</strong></a></p>

<p>However, it is not the first time that Ukraine has been at the fulcrum of controversies on the Indian internet. Previously, a tweet posted by the Defence of Ukraine’s official account seemingly depicting Indian goddess Kali morphed over a blast fume outraged netizens in India who deemed it to be offensive and “Hinduphobic”.</p>

<p>However, minutes after posting the picture, the tweet received a massive backlash, forcing the Ministry of Defence to delete the Twitter post.</p>

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Beijing has demanded clarification from a top Ukrainian official who earlier suggested that India and China lacked intellectual capabilities to calculate their national interests in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war.

Beijing has demanded clarification from a top Ukrainian official who earlier suggested that India and China lacked intellectual capabilities to calculate their national interests in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war. China and India “don’t analyse the consequences of the steps they take,” said Mikhail Podoliak, the top aide to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. In an interview, he also said that the two Asian powerhouses have “low intellectual potential.” The advisor also accused both countries, along with Turkey, of “earning money” through the conflict. A spokeswoman for the Chinese foreign ministry said Wednesday that the aide must clarify his remarks. “I don’t know the background of this person’s remarks, but he should clarify them,” Mao Ning said. Mao also reiterated that her country has maintained a “responsible” stance towards the conflict in Ukraine, while constantly calling for a cessation of hostilities and a political settlement to the crisis. Ukrainian advisor issues clarification After the controversy erupted, the top Ukrainian official took to X, formerly Twitter, to explain what he meant by his earlier statement. Podoliak said China, India and Turkey are “clearly justified” in claiming important roles on the international stage, but “the global world is much broader than even the most thoughtful regional national interests.” Watch: Ukraine military destroys 26 out of 33 drones launched by Russia × He also accused the Russian media of taking his earlier comments out of context and propagating what suits the Kremlin’s agenda. Moscow, with which Ankara, New Delhi and Beijing maintain ties, is “demonstratively trying to undermine the foundations of the global world,” he added in his remarks. Previous controversies The comments made by Podoliak triggered a wave of criticism on Indian social media, with some users reiterating their support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Also read: Russia`s `massive` drone attacks damaged infra at ports of Danube region, claims Ukraine However, it is not the first time that Ukraine has been at the fulcrum of controversies on the Indian internet. Previously, a tweet posted by the Defence of Ukraine’s official account seemingly depicting Indian goddess Kali morphed over a blast fume outraged netizens in India who deemed it to be offensive and “Hinduphobic”. However, minutes after posting the picture, the tweet received a massive backlash, forcing the Ministry of Defence to delete the Twitter post. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Beijing demands clarification after Ukrainian official questions intellectual potential 

<p>Ukrainian officials claimed on Wednesday (September 13) that a "massive" Russian drone attack earlier damaged infrastructure at Ukrainian grain-exporting ports on the Danube River.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov said the ports of Reni and Izmail had been struck in an attack that damaged warehouses used for grain cargoes, oil storage tanks and administrative buildings. The official said that the attack lasted for more than four hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv alleges that Moscow has increased such attacks on Ukrainian ports and grain facilities since Russia quit a deal that had enabled Ukraine to safely export grain via the Black Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-missile-attack-causes-fire-at-crimean-shipyard-damaging-2-ships-says-russia-635655">Ukraine missile attack causes fire at Crimean shipyard, damaging 2 ships, says Russia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"Another massive attack on the ports of the Danube Region," wrote Kubrakov, further adding that 105 port infrastructure facilities in Ukraine had been damaged and partially destroyed since the grain deal was suspended.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Kubrakov, Ukrainian exports to Asia, Africa and Europe had been reduced by almost three million tonnes per month as a result of the air strikes since July 18.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In recent times, the Danube has emerged as a vital export route since Ukraine's deep Black Sea ports were blocked. Kubrakov said that&nbsp;"despite the aggressor's attempts to reduce its (Ukraine's) export potential, the ports continue to operate. At the same time, every attack on the port infrastructure of Ukraine is an attack on the food security of the whole world."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Oleh Kiper, who is the governor of the Odesa region that includes the Danube River ports, had said earlier on Wednesday that "damage to the port and other civilian infrastructure was recorded" but gave few details.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/putin-expresses-faith-in-the-rouble-says-nothing-drastic-following-crash-635586">Putin expresses faith in the rouble, says ‘nothing drastic’ following crash</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;North Korea fires two ballistic missile ahead of Kim Jong Un-Vladimir Putin meet&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, Russian defence minister, Sergei Shoigu, said on Wednesday that that Moscow had no choice but to win. He said that his forces were maintaining "active defence" in the face of Ukraine's counteroffensive.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shoigu acknowledged during his remarks to a reporter for Rossiya-1 state TV that the situation on the front was difficult in places and the autumn campaign was now underway.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said: "The forces are maintaining active defence on the necessary, essential fronts. In some places, it’s harder, in others simpler. But I can say that the lads and the commander are performing confidently, and reliably defending what we need to defend at the moment – those places, obviously, where the Ukrainian armed forces are trying to break through."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</strong><br />
<br />
(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Ukrainian officials claimed on Wednesday (September 13) that a "massive" Russian drone attack earlier damaged infrastructure at Ukrainian grain-exporting ports on the Danube River.

Ukrainian officials claimed on Wednesday (September 13) that a "massive" Russian drone attack earlier damaged infrastructure at Ukrainian grain-exporting ports on the Danube River. Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov said the ports of Reni and Izmail had been struck in an attack that damaged warehouses used for grain cargoes, oil storage tanks and administrative buildings. The official said that the attack lasted for more than four hours. Kyiv alleges that Moscow has increased such attacks on Ukrainian ports and grain facilities since Russia quit a deal that had enabled Ukraine to safely export grain via the Black Sea. Also read: Ukraine missile attack causes fire at Crimean shipyard, damaging 2 ships, says Russia "Another massive attack on the ports of the Danube Region," wrote Kubrakov, further adding that 105 port infrastructure facilities in Ukraine had been damaged and partially destroyed since the grain deal was suspended. According to Kubrakov, Ukrainian exports to Asia, Africa and Europe had been reduced by almost three million tonnes per month as a result of the air strikes since July 18. In recent times, the Danube has emerged as a vital export route since Ukraine's deep Black Sea ports were blocked. Kubrakov said that "despite the aggressor's attempts to reduce its (Ukraine's) export potential, the ports continue to operate. At the same time, every attack on the port infrastructure of Ukraine is an attack on the food security of the whole world." Oleh Kiper, who is the governor of the Odesa region that includes the Danube River ports, had said earlier on Wednesday that "damage to the port and other civilian infrastructure was recorded" but gave few details. Also read: Putin expresses faith in the rouble, says ‘nothing drastic’ following crash Watch: North Korea fires two ballistic missile ahead of Kim Jong Un-Vladimir Putin meet × Meanwhile, Russian defence minister, Sergei Shoigu, said on Wednesday that that Moscow had no choice but to win. He said that his forces were maintaining "active defence" in the face of Ukraine's counteroffensive. Shoigu acknowledged during his remarks to a reporter for Rossiya-1 state TV that the situation on the front was difficult in places and the autumn campaign was now underway. He said: "The forces are maintaining active defence on the necessary, essential fronts. In some places, it’s harder, in others simpler. But I can say that the lads and the commander are performing confidently, and reliably defending what we need to defend at the moment – those places, obviously, where the Ukrainian armed forces are trying to break through." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia's 'massive' drone attacks damaged infra at ports of Danube region, claims Ukraine

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (September 12) slammed the West's plans of sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, stating that the move would only "prolong conflict".&nbsp;</p>

<p>At an economic forum in Russia's Far East, Putin said: "They are going to deliver F-16s. Will this change anything? I don't think so. It will just prolong the conflict."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US recently approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark and the Netherlands to defend against Russian invaders as soon as pilot training is completed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This came after Kyiv's consistent plea to provide the war-ravaged nation with F-16s to fend off Russia's aggression amid the ongoing war, which started last year on February 24.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-brands-trumps-legal-battles-as-political-witch-hunt-as-us-russia-tensions-escalate-635278">Putin calls Trump's legal battles a political witch hunt as US-Russia tensions escalate</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Previously, Russia has called for the supply of these advanced jets will lead to acceleration. In July, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that Moscow would regard Western F-16 fighter jets sent to Ukraine as a "nuclear" threat because of their capacity to carry atomic weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian president also denounced Washington for sending Kyiv controversial cluster munitions, which triggered criticism from Brussels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "Not long ago, the US administration believed that the use of cluster munitions is a war crime. Now, they themselves are supplying cluster munitions to combat areas in Ukraine."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cluster munitions have been controversial in terms of the Russia-Ukraine war as they can disperse up to several hundred small explosive charges, which can remain unexploded in the ground. Ukraine has relied on Western weaponry to launch and lead its counteroffensive against Russian forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/you-scratch-my-back-i-scratch-yours-whats-the-new-interdependent-kim-putin-dynamic-635224">You scratch my back, I scratch yours: What's the new interdependent Kim-Putin dynamic?</a>&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Kim Jong-un in Russia -&nbsp;Putin set to meet Kim in Russia's far east&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>At the economic forum, Putin also said that the Russian army has added over half a million people in the last year, including both drafted and volunteer fighters, to fight in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kremlin hasn't announced a second draft as the first wave of mobilisation last year triggered a wave of emigration. But Russia pursued a campaign to recruit volunteers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We had a partial mobilisation... We called up 300,000 people. Now, in the last six-seven months, 270,000 people have voluntarily signed contracts to serve in the Russian army," Putin said, further adding that the "process continues, with 1,000-1,500 people coming every day to sign contracts".&nbsp;</p>

<p>On being asked about whether Russia will introduce another mobilisation wave, he did not outright deny the possibility, but said that "our men, knowing what awaits them on the front, still go for this consciously and voluntarily to defend the motherland".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (September 12) slammed the West's plans of sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, stating that the move would only "prolong conflict".

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (September 12) slammed the West's plans of sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, stating that the move would only "prolong conflict". At an economic forum in Russia's Far East, Putin said: "They are going to deliver F-16s. Will this change anything? I don't think so. It will just prolong the conflict." The US recently approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark and the Netherlands to defend against Russian invaders as soon as pilot training is completed. This came after Kyiv's consistent plea to provide the war-ravaged nation with F-16s to fend off Russia's aggression amid the ongoing war, which started last year on February 24. Also read: Putin calls Trump's legal battles a political witch hunt as US-Russia tensions escalate Previously, Russia has called for the supply of these advanced jets will lead to acceleration. In July, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that Moscow would regard Western F-16 fighter jets sent to Ukraine as a "nuclear" threat because of their capacity to carry atomic weapons. The Russian president also denounced Washington for sending Kyiv controversial cluster munitions, which triggered criticism from Brussels. He said, "Not long ago, the US administration believed that the use of cluster munitions is a war crime. Now, they themselves are supplying cluster munitions to combat areas in Ukraine." Cluster munitions have been controversial in terms of the Russia-Ukraine war as they can disperse up to several hundred small explosive charges, which can remain unexploded in the ground. Ukraine has relied on Western weaponry to launch and lead its counteroffensive against Russian forces. Also read: You scratch my back, I scratch yours: What's the new interdependent Kim-Putin dynamic? Watch: Kim Jong-un in Russia - Putin set to meet Kim in Russia's far east × At the economic forum, Putin also said that the Russian army has added over half a million people in the last year, including both drafted and volunteer fighters, to fight in Ukraine. Kremlin hasn't announced a second draft as the first wave of mobilisation last year triggered a wave of emigration. But Russia pursued a campaign to recruit volunteers. "We had a partial mobilisation... We called up 300,000 people. Now, in the last six-seven months, 270,000 people have voluntarily signed contracts to serve in the Russian army," Putin said, further adding that the "process continues, with 1,000-1,500 people coming every day to sign contracts". On being asked about whether Russia will introduce another mobilisation wave, he did not outright deny the possibility, but said that "our men, knowing what awaits them on the front, still go for this consciously and voluntarily to defend the motherland". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin says West sending F-16s to Ukraine will 'only prolong conflict'

<p>Russia is angry with the West after the US and Britain announced a controversial move to give&nbsp;depleted uranium (DU) tank rounds to Ukraine. Moscow said Washington would be responsible for any negative lingering impact of the munitions' use.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Britain's announcement that it would provide such ammunition to Ukraine was denounced by Russia as a "serious" escalation of the war. The Pentagon, meanwhile,&nbsp;said it would provide Ukraine with the rounds as part of a $1 billion aid package.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Depleted uranium munitions are controversial because of their links to various health and environmental problems such as cancer and birth defects in areas where they were used.</p>

<p>Such cases have been reported in past conflicts, but some reports say that it is not certain they have specifically caused such issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "The use of these shells has resulted in a galloping increase in the number of cancer patients. The same situation will inevitably await those Ukrainian territories where they will be used. Responsibility will lie with the US."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that he would deploy depleted uranium ammunition if Ukraine received the arms.</p>

<h2><strong>What is depleted uranium?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Depleted uranium is more or less the same as natural uranium, however, it has a lower concentration of the fissile isotope U-235. It is about 60 per cent less radioactive than uranium in its natural state. DU is a byproduct of the uranium enrichment process used to produce fuel for nuclear reactors and nuclear weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Uranium is a very dense metal, which is about 1.7 times denser than lead. It is so hard that when it hits a target, it does not change shape. As a result, depleted uranium is utilised in shells and bombs to increase their ability to punch through metal.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Is it even legal to be use depleted uranium as a weapon?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The usage of depleted uranium shells is not banned under international law. The United Kingdom's Ministry of Defence said that the depleted uranium shells it is sending to Ukraine are not prohibited by any international agreement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It said that under Article 36 of the First Protocol of 1977 Additional to the Geneva Conventions of 1949, the UK's depleted uranium shells are "capable of being used lawfully in international armed conflict".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who has used such weapons and when?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Many countries such as the United States and Russia have used depleted uranium munitions as part of their military arsenals. They were used in both the Gulf wars in 1991 and 2003 and in the former Yugoslavia in the 1990s.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) forces, including the US military, used DU ammunition during the Bosnian War between 1994-1995. NATO forces also used them during the Kosovo War in 1999.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There are also reports suggesting that depleted uranium was extensively used during the Iraq War (2003-2011) by the US military.</p>

<p>An estimated 2,000 metric tonnes of DU were used in the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that it had used depleted uranium ammunition in Syria in strikes against the Islamic State radical group in 2015.</p>

<p>The Pentagon has acknowledged using depleted uranium ordnance twice in 2015 in raids against the Islamic State group in Syria.</p>

<p>The US military used DU ammunition in the Afghanistan War (2001-2021), but it is not clear to the extent it was used.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What are the health hazards of depleted uranium munitions?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Several experts have argued that the use of depleted uranium must be banned as it leads to serious health issues. Although depleted uranium is less radioactive than natural uranium, it is nevertheless a hazardous heavy metal that can cause health problems if inhaled or swallowed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some health experts have said that DU particles can stay in the body for years and can lead to health problems, including kidney damage, lung cancer, and birth defects.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Depleted uranium munitions have been identified as one of the likely reasons for health problems among Gulf War veterans, as well as a suspected cause of high levels of cancer and birth deformities in the Iraqi city of Fallujah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the function of bombs in these issues has not been scientifically confirmed. Moreover, countries at the forefront of using such ammunition have repeatedly said that no proof has been found based on studies that establish a link between cancer and DU.</p>

<p>DU impacts the environment as well, because after striking the target, it releases uranium oxide dust and fragments into the air.</p>

<p>In the current scenario, one of the most crucial things to remember is the world's food crisis caused by the Russia-Ukraine war, which started on February 24, 2022. Ukraine is a major exporter of sunflower, maize, wheat, and barley to the rest of the world.</p>

<p>As the battle progresses, the radioactivity of DU dust particles will last for decades. As a result, the fertile land will be rendered useless in the future, causing food shortages and disrupting the global food supply chain.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Russia is angry with the West after the US and Britain announced a controversial move to give depleted uranium (DU) tank rounds to Ukraine. Moscow said Washington would be responsible for any negative lingering impact of the munitions' use.

Russia is angry with the West after the US and Britain announced a controversial move to give depleted uranium (DU) tank rounds to Ukraine. Moscow said Washington would be responsible for any negative lingering impact of the munitions' use. Britain's announcement that it would provide such ammunition to Ukraine was denounced by Russia as a "serious" escalation of the war. The Pentagon, meanwhile, said it would provide Ukraine with the rounds as part of a $1 billion aid package. Depleted uranium munitions are controversial because of their links to various health and environmental problems such as cancer and birth defects in areas where they were used. Such cases have been reported in past conflicts, but some reports say that it is not certain they have specifically caused such issues. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "The use of these shells has resulted in a galloping increase in the number of cancer patients. The same situation will inevitably await those Ukrainian territories where they will be used. Responsibility will lie with the US." Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that he would deploy depleted uranium ammunition if Ukraine received the arms. What is depleted uranium? Depleted uranium is more or less the same as natural uranium, however, it has a lower concentration of the fissile isotope U-235. It is about 60 per cent less radioactive than uranium in its natural state. DU is a byproduct of the uranium enrichment process used to produce fuel for nuclear reactors and nuclear weapons. Uranium is a very dense metal, which is about 1.7 times denser than lead. It is so hard that when it hits a target, it does not change shape. As a result, depleted uranium is utilised in shells and bombs to increase their ability to punch through metal. Is it even legal to be use depleted uranium as a weapon? The usage of depleted uranium shells is not banned under international law. The United Kingdom's Ministry of Defence said that the depleted uranium shells it is sending to Ukraine are not prohibited by any international agreement. It said that under Article 36 of the First Protocol of 1977 Additional to the Geneva Conventions of 1949, the UK's depleted uranium shells are "capable of being used lawfully in international armed conflict". Who has used such weapons and when? Many countries such as the United States and Russia have used depleted uranium munitions as part of their military arsenals. They were used in both the Gulf wars in 1991 and 2003 and in the former Yugoslavia in the 1990s. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) forces, including the US military, used DU ammunition during the Bosnian War between 1994-1995. NATO forces also used them during the Kosovo War in 1999. There are also reports suggesting that depleted uranium was extensively used during the Iraq War (2003-2011) by the US military. An estimated 2,000 metric tonnes of DU were used in the conflict. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that it had used depleted uranium ammunition in Syria in strikes against the Islamic State radical group in 2015. The Pentagon has acknowledged using depleted uranium ordnance twice in 2015 in raids against the Islamic State group in Syria. The US military used DU ammunition in the Afghanistan War (2001-2021), but it is not clear to the extent it was used. What are the health hazards of depleted uranium munitions? Several experts have argued that the use of depleted uranium must be banned as it leads to serious health issues. Although depleted uranium is less radioactive than natural uranium, it is nevertheless a hazardous heavy metal that can cause health problems if inhaled or swallowed. Some health experts have said that DU particles can stay in the body for years and can lead to health problems, including kidney damage, lung cancer, and birth defects. Depleted uranium munitions have been identified as one of the likely reasons for health problems among Gulf War veterans, as well as a suspected cause of high levels of cancer and birth deformities in the Iraqi city of Fallujah. However, the function of bombs in these issues has not been scientifically confirmed. Moreover, countries at the forefront of using such ammunition have repeatedly said that no proof has been found based on studies that establish a link between cancer and DU. DU impacts the environment as well, because after striking the target, it releases uranium oxide dust and fragments into the air. In the current scenario, one of the most crucial things to remember is the world's food crisis caused by the Russia-Ukraine war, which started on February 24, 2022. Ukraine is a major exporter of sunflower, maize, wheat, and barley to the rest of the world. As the battle progresses, the radioactivity of DU dust particles will last for decades. As a result, the fertile land will be rendered useless in the future, causing food shortages and disrupting the global food supply chain. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Depleted Uranium munitions being given by US to Ukraine are a health hazard

<p>Starlink CEO Elon Musk reportedly tried to shut down Ukrainian access to its satellite communications network when Kyiv's forces were attempting to attack the Russian fleet off the Crimea coast last year, according to an excerpt from a biography written by Walter Isaacson titled <em>Elon Musk</em>.</p>

<p>Musk told the biographer that he was worried about being dragged into the war and ordered engineers to turn off the satellites as he feared that the attack would amount to “mini Pearl Harbor” and lead to a Russian nuclear retaliation.</p>

<p>According to the book, which is set to be released next week, after Musk disconnected the satellites, Ukrainian drones “lost connectivity and washed ashore harmlessly”, reported CNN.</p>

<p>“How am I in this war?” Musk told the writer, who has previously published biographies of Steve Jobs and Henry Kissinger.</p>

<p>“Starlink was not meant to be involved in wars. It was so people can watch Netflix and chill and get online for school and do good peaceful things, not drone strikes.”</p>

<h2><strong>Starlink may soon offer internet services in India</strong></h2>

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<h2><strong>Despite Ukraine's request, Musk remained adamant&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The author further claimed in his book that Ukraine’s former deputy prime minister Mykhailo Fedorov “begged” Musk to restore access to the satellites. But the billionaire denied the request, saying that the drone attack was “going too far and inviting strategic defeat.”</p>

<p>More than 20,000 Starlink terminals were donated by Musk to Ukraine after Russia destroyed much of the country’s infrastructure at the beginning of the war in February 2022.</p>

<p>Last October, Musk wrote to the Pentagon to say that it could no longer afford to continue funding the service and asked the Biden administration to cover the cost, which he estimated to be in hundreds of millions of dollars, CNN revealed at the time.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/record-breaking-rain-batters-hong-kong-and-chinese-city-shenzhen-633526">Record-breaking rain batters Hong Kong and Chinese city Shenzhen</a></p>

<p>Earlier this year, the US and European governments negotiated a deal with Musk, paying for another 100,000 Starlink satellite dishes to be sent to Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-moves-out-troops-conducts-precautionary-repositioning-of-forces-in-niger-633488">US moves out troops, conducts 'precautionary' repositioning of forces in Niger</a></p>

<p>It’s unknown whether the Tesla CEO has reconsidered his fears over nuclear war after receiving&nbsp;such a large bulk order.</p>

<h2><strong>Musk responds</strong></h2>

<p>After a user, Mario Nawfal — a self-described combination of entrepreneur, business influencer and “citizen journalist” — shared the excerpts from the book on social media platform X, Musk said that had he acceded&nbsp;to the Ukrainian government’s request, SpaceX would have faced retaliation.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol.<br />
<br />
The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor.<br />
<br />
If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and…</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1699917639043404146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>“There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol. The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor. If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and conflict escalation,” he said in response to the post on X.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Starlink CEO Elon Musk reportedly tried to shut down Ukrainian access to its satellite communications network when Kyiv's forces were attempting to attack the Russian fleet off the Crimea coast last year, according to an excerpt from a biography written by Walter Isaacson titled Elon Musk.

Starlink CEO Elon Musk reportedly tried to shut down Ukrainian access to its satellite communications network when Kyiv's forces were attempting to attack the Russian fleet off the Crimea coast last year, according to an excerpt from a biography written by Walter Isaacson titled Elon Musk. Musk told the biographer that he was worried about being dragged into the war and ordered engineers to turn off the satellites as he feared that the attack would amount to “mini Pearl Harbor” and lead to a Russian nuclear retaliation. According to the book, which is set to be released next week, after Musk disconnected the satellites, Ukrainian drones “lost connectivity and washed ashore harmlessly”, reported CNN. “How am I in this war?” Musk told the writer, who has previously published biographies of Steve Jobs and Henry Kissinger. “Starlink was not meant to be involved in wars. It was so people can watch Netflix and chill and get online for school and do good peaceful things, not drone strikes.” Starlink may soon offer internet services in India Despite Ukraine's request, Musk remained adamant The author further claimed in his book that Ukraine’s former deputy prime minister Mykhailo Fedorov “begged” Musk to restore access to the satellites. But the billionaire denied the request, saying that the drone attack was “going too far and inviting strategic defeat.” More than 20,000 Starlink terminals were donated by Musk to Ukraine after Russia destroyed much of the country’s infrastructure at the beginning of the war in February 2022. Last October, Musk wrote to the Pentagon to say that it could no longer afford to continue funding the service and asked the Biden administration to cover the cost, which he estimated to be in hundreds of millions of dollars, CNN revealed at the time. Also read | Record-breaking rain batters Hong Kong and Chinese city Shenzhen Earlier this year, the US and European governments negotiated a deal with Musk, paying for another 100,000 Starlink satellite dishes to be sent to Ukraine. Also read | US moves out troops, conducts 'precautionary' repositioning of forces in Niger It’s unknown whether the Tesla CEO has reconsidered his fears over nuclear war after receiving such a large bulk order. Musk responds After a user, Mario Nawfal — a self-described combination of entrepreneur, business influencer and “citizen journalist” — shared the excerpts from the book on social media platform X, Musk said that had he acceded to the Ukrainian government’s request, SpaceX would have faced retaliation. There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol. The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor. If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and… — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) September 7, 2023 × “There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol. The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor. If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and conflict escalation,” he said in response to the post on X. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Fearing a nuclear war, Elon Musk snipped Starlink services to thwart Ukrainian drone offensive on Russia