<p>At least one boy was killed when a Russian missile strike allegedly targeted civilian infrastructure in the western Ukraine region of Ivano-Frankivsk, the prosecutors said on Friday (August 11). This is an infrequent attack in the western region.&nbsp;Ukrainian officials said that Russia used hypersonic missiles and hit areas near a military airfield.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, they said: "The missiles hit territory near a private house in the Kolomyia district, where a family with three children lived. An 8-year-old boy died as a result of the shelling. Information about other victims is currently being verified."&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Svitlana Onyshchuk, who is the head of the Ivano-Frankivsk region military administration, the child had been taken to the hospital in critical condition, but doctors couldn't save him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Onyshchuk said that one missile crashed into the grounds of a family's home in the Kolomyia district, injuring several people including the boy, who died.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-to-deploy-around-10000-soldiers-to-border-with-belarus-624520">Poland to deploy around 10,000 soldiers to border with Belarus</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Russian ballistic missile strike hit a home in Ivano-Frankivsk region, a child died - Prosecutor General's Office of Ukraine<br />
<br />
An 8-year-old boy died as a result of the attack. Information about other victims is currently being checked.<br />
<br />
Terrorist state continues terrorizing… <a href="https://t.co/ZLqXLPnupi">pic.twitter.com/ZLqXLPnupi</a></p>
— Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gerashchenko_en/status/1689953818346184704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Today a child was killed by a Russian rocket during the strike to a Ukrainian civilian building. It happened in Ivano-Frankivsk region — 1000 km away from the frontline.<br />
<br />
Zero reasons for Ukrainians not to kill every fucking Russian on cursed Russian land. <a href="https://t.co/K7xQi54bTM">pic.twitter.com/K7xQi54bTM</a></p>
— Vyacheslav Rushnyk (@nemapovnovazhen) <a href="https://twitter.com/nemapovnovazhen/status/1689952228671455232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The air force said that air defences shot down one of the four Kinzhal missiles near the capital Kyiv as they hurtled towards western Ukraine hundreds of miles from the front.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Telegram it said: "One X-47 (hypersonic) missile was destroyed within Kyiv region. The rest hit near the airfield. Civilian infrastructure was damaged, and one of the missiles hit a residential area."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-minister-vows-to-go-after-army-commanders-accused-of-sexual-harassment-624483">Ukraine minister vows to go after army commanders accused of sexual harassment</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Colonel Yuriy Ihnat of the Ukrainian Air Force said that the attack was directed at Ukrainian pilots who were preparing to travel to the West to train to fly F-16 fighter jets, which Kyiv believes will eventually be provided.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said on television: "They (the pilots) will be trained on new equipment - the F-16 - and the enemy wanted to strike our young people, depriving us of the prospect of using the new Western equipment."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US &amp; Europe reliant on Nuclear fuel exports &amp; Russia's revenue boost</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Fighting intensifies in the Kharkiv region</strong></h2>

<p>Russia on Friday claimed that its forces had "improved" their offensive positions around two settlements near the town of Kupiansk in Ukraine's northeastern Kharkiv region.</p>

<p>According to the Russian defence ministry, its forces had "improved the tactical situation" on the front line near Vilshana and Pershotravneve.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Separately, it said its forces had struck a temporary base for foreign mercenaries in the Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia, without providing further details.&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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At least one boy was killed when a Russian missile strike allegedly targeted civilian infrastructure in the western Ukraine region of Ivano-Frankivsk, the prosecutors said on Friday (August 11).

At least one boy was killed when a Russian missile strike allegedly targeted civilian infrastructure in the western Ukraine region of Ivano-Frankivsk, the prosecutors said on Friday (August 11). This is an infrequent attack in the western region. Ukrainian officials said that Russia used hypersonic missiles and hit areas near a military airfield. In a statement, they said: "The missiles hit territory near a private house in the Kolomyia district, where a family with three children lived. An 8-year-old boy died as a result of the shelling. Information about other victims is currently being verified." According to Svitlana Onyshchuk, who is the head of the Ivano-Frankivsk region military administration, the child had been taken to the hospital in critical condition, but doctors couldn't save him. Onyshchuk said that one missile crashed into the grounds of a family's home in the Kolomyia district, injuring several people including the boy, who died. Also read: Poland to deploy around 10,000 soldiers to border with Belarus Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Russian ballistic missile strike hit a home in Ivano-Frankivsk region, a child died - Prosecutor General's Office of Ukraine An 8-year-old boy died as a result of the attack. Information about other victims is currently being checked. Terrorist state continues terrorizing… pic.twitter.com/ZLqXLPnupi — Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) August 11, 2023 × Today a child was killed by a Russian rocket during the strike to a Ukrainian civilian building. It happened in Ivano-Frankivsk region — 1000 km away from the frontline. Zero reasons for Ukrainians not to kill every fucking Russian on cursed Russian land. pic.twitter.com/K7xQi54bTM — Vyacheslav Rushnyk (@nemapovnovazhen) August 11, 2023 × The air force said that air defences shot down one of the four Kinzhal missiles near the capital Kyiv as they hurtled towards western Ukraine hundreds of miles from the front. On Telegram it said: "One X-47 (hypersonic) missile was destroyed within Kyiv region. The rest hit near the airfield. Civilian infrastructure was damaged, and one of the missiles hit a residential area." Also read: Ukraine minister vows to go after army commanders accused of sexual harassment Colonel Yuriy Ihnat of the Ukrainian Air Force said that the attack was directed at Ukrainian pilots who were preparing to travel to the West to train to fly F-16 fighter jets, which Kyiv believes will eventually be provided. He said on television: "They (the pilots) will be trained on new equipment - the F-16 - and the enemy wanted to strike our young people, depriving us of the prospect of using the new Western equipment." Watch: US & Europe reliant on Nuclear fuel exports & Russia's revenue boost × Fighting intensifies in the Kharkiv region Russia on Friday claimed that its forces had "improved" their offensive positions around two settlements near the town of Kupiansk in Ukraine's northeastern Kharkiv region. According to the Russian defence ministry, its forces had "improved the tactical situation" on the front line near Vilshana and Pershotravneve. Separately, it said its forces had struck a temporary base for foreign mercenaries in the Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia, without providing further details. 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.

Russian missile strike kills child in west Ukraine, shelling intensifies in Kharkiv region

<p>Ukrainian shelling killed at least two people and injured two others in the Russian border region of Bryansk on Thursday (August 10). The governor of the region, Alexander Bogomaz, said earlier that one man had died but later announced another person was also killed.</p>

<p>"At present, two civilians have been killed by the Ukrainian armed forces," he said on social media. Reports have mentioned that the attack took place in the Russian village of Chausy, some five kilometres from the Ukrainian border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes on the same day when Ukraine urged civilians near the northeastern front line to evacuate amid Russia's ramp-up of an assault to recapture the territory. The region was already once seized during the war, which started last year on February 24.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kupiansk and the surrounding areas of Ukraine's Kharkiv region were liberated by Kyiv's forces last September, but Moscow has since pushed back on the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-west-getting-sobering-updates-on-ukrainian-counteroffensive-623572">Russia-Ukraine war: West getting 'sobering' updates on Ukrainian counteroffensive</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The city administration said, "Given the difficult security situation and the increasing amount of shelling by Russian terrorist forces in the Kupiansk community, you have the opportunity to evacuate to a safer place." The administration named 37 settlements wedged between the town and Russian lines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It further noted that the residents could evacuate to Kharkiv, which is around 90 kilometres west, where they would have the option to move to safer regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian officials say that substantial Russian reinforcements have turned the northern front in the eastern Kharkiv region into the "epicentre" of hostilities, but that Ukrainian defences are holding.</p>

<p>Ruslan Muzychuk, who is the National Guard spokesman, told Ukrainian television on Thursday that "the Kupiansk direction remains the epicentre of hostilities, where the enemy is concentrating its main efforts".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-11-ukrainian-drones-downed-near-crimea-two-more-heading-to-moscow-shot-624025">Russia claims 11 Ukrainian drones downed near Crimea, two more heading towards Moscow shot</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;At least two dead after Russian attack on Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Muzychuk added, "The number of enemy forces and means and its recent activation in this area of the front are aimed at trying to turn the tide in this section of the front."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further said that the Russians had brought in airborne assault units "and they have been reinforced by tank units, which, with the support of aviation and artillery, are attempting to assault the positions of Ukrainian defenders".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "In recent weeks, more than 50 air attacks have been taking place every day, and sometimes more than 80."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Ukrainian shelling killed at least two people and injured two others in the Russian border region of Bryansk on Thursday (August 10). The governor of the region, Alexander Bogomaz, said earlier that one man had died but later announced another person was also killed.

Ukrainian shelling killed at least two people and injured two others in the Russian border region of Bryansk on Thursday (August 10). The governor of the region, Alexander Bogomaz, said earlier that one man had died but later announced another person was also killed. "At present, two civilians have been killed by the Ukrainian armed forces," he said on social media. Reports have mentioned that the attack took place in the Russian village of Chausy, some five kilometres from the Ukrainian border. This comes on the same day when Ukraine urged civilians near the northeastern front line to evacuate amid Russia's ramp-up of an assault to recapture the territory. The region was already once seized during the war, which started last year on February 24. Kupiansk and the surrounding areas of Ukraine's Kharkiv region were liberated by Kyiv's forces last September, but Moscow has since pushed back on the region. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: West getting 'sobering' updates on Ukrainian counteroffensive The city administration said, "Given the difficult security situation and the increasing amount of shelling by Russian terrorist forces in the Kupiansk community, you have the opportunity to evacuate to a safer place." The administration named 37 settlements wedged between the town and Russian lines. It further noted that the residents could evacuate to Kharkiv, which is around 90 kilometres west, where they would have the option to move to safer regions. Ukrainian officials say that substantial Russian reinforcements have turned the northern front in the eastern Kharkiv region into the "epicentre" of hostilities, but that Ukrainian defences are holding. Ruslan Muzychuk, who is the National Guard spokesman, told Ukrainian television on Thursday that "the Kupiansk direction remains the epicentre of hostilities, where the enemy is concentrating its main efforts". Also read: Russia claims 11 Ukrainian drones downed near Crimea, two more heading towards Moscow shot Watch: At least two dead after Russian attack on Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia × Muzychuk added, "The number of enemy forces and means and its recent activation in this area of the front are aimed at trying to turn the tide in this section of the front." He further said that the Russians had brought in airborne assault units "and they have been reinforced by tank units, which, with the support of aviation and artillery, are attempting to assault the positions of Ukrainian defenders". He said, "In recent weeks, more than 50 air attacks have been taking place every day, and sometimes more than 80." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Two dead after shelling in Russian border region; northeast Ukraine town urges evacuations

<p>A Ukrainian security source said that drones on August 4 targeted a port in southern Russia, which was used as a base by Moscow's Black Sea fleet. Moscow has denied claims related to any attack, but a video was released in which a Russian vessel was seen being moved and towed as if it was damaged.</p>

<p>Such accusations are not new. During the course of the Russia-Ukraine war, Russian authorities have accused Ukraine of launching sea drones against its vessels.</p>

<p>If it is true, this will become a turning point in the ongoing war, with Ukraine taking the war to Russia and key Russian assets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Analysts and experts across the world are discussing ways to end the war, which was launched by Russian President Vladimir Putin last year on February 24. But attacks by sea drones can be seen as an escalation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The use of aerial drones is not quite extensive during the conflict yet, but this new type of seaborne technology is gaining traction. Experts have said that it has the potential to revolutionise the future of naval warfare.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/5-killed-31-injured-after-two-russian-missiles-strike-ukrainian-city-623255">At least 8 killed, 31 injured after two Russian missiles strike Ukrainian city</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>What are sea drones?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Underwater drones or remotely operated vehicles (ROVs)&nbsp;are submersible, tethered, and highly manoeuvrable drones designed to operate underwater.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sea drone has built-in explosives and cameras, which sends images and videos to the person who is controlling them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Underwater ROVs come in a variety of sizes and can also be customised to fulfil the specific requirements of a wide range of maritime and subsea industries and applications.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many agencies and organisations that previously relied on expensive&nbsp;submarines and human divers to carry out underwater activities,&nbsp;have replaced them with underwater ROVs due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Asset monitoring, infrastructure inspections, public safety, search and rescue/recovery, defence and security, academia, and environmental conservation are a few examples.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelenskys-assassination-plot-thwarted-ukraine-detains-woman-over-alleged-plan-to-attack-president-623220">Zelensky assassination plot thwarted? Ukraine detains woman over alleged plan to attack president</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Use of sea drones</strong></h2>

<p>Sea drones are used in aquaculture, shipping, offshore energy, utilities, public works, search and rescue, academia, and defence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The usage in defence and security is vital and these drones can be helped to clear mines, carry out surveillance or detonate near targets like enemy ships.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Because of their compact size and 360° omnidirectional manoeuvrability, underwater drones are a safe and efficient way to remotely evaluate and monitor assets and conduct inspections while reducing both operational costs and human risks.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Use of sea drones in the Russia-Ukraine war</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Since the start of the war, several reports have emerged of sea drones. Once, one underwater drone&nbsp;reportedly washed up on the shores of Russia-occupied Crimea. Ukraine also unveiled a prototype of an unmanned undersea drone called the Toloka TLK-150. However, there's no confirmed report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The number of attacks in the Black Sea has increased from both sides since Moscow exited a deal last month that had allowed Ukrainian grain exports via the shipping hub during the conflict between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;North Korean hackers attacked systems of Russian missile maker&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Media reports and announcements by Russian and Ukrainian authorities suggest that Kyiv launched a total of at least 12 attacks with sea drones. They apparently targeted military ships, the naval base in Sevastopol, and Novorossiysk harbour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Ukrainian intelligence source told the news agency Reuters that on August 5 a Ukrainian maritime drone carrying 450 kg of explosives hit a Russian tanker near the Crime bridge. The tanker was damaged in the attack and two tugboats had arrived at the scene, the state-run TASS news agency said, citing the Maritime Rescue Centre.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Moscow Times identified the vessel as the chemical tanker SIG, which is under US sanctions for supplying jet fuel to Russian forces in Syria supporting President Bashar al-Assad. Traffic on the bridge linking the Moscow-annexed Crimean peninsula to Russia's mainland was halted for around three hours and resumed early Saturday, according to the highways information centre's Telegram channel.</p>

<p>On August 4, Ukraine said it had carried out a seaborne drone strike on a Russian navy ship at Novorossiysk naval base in southern Russia. Moscow hasn't reported any damage, but source-based media reports said that there was a crew of around 100 Russian servicemen on the vessel when it was attacked by a sea drone carrying 450 kilogrammes of TNT.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In May, images emerged showing drone ships approaching the Ivan Khurs, a Russian intelligence-gathering ship, however, it is unknown whether the ship was harmed. There have been other similar instances as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such incidents show that sea drones are capable of reaching any target, including those that are a lot farther away.</p>

<p>Reports suggest that Ukraine's deployment of sea drones is at a relatively low cost. This could emerge as a new era for naval warfare and a crucial stage in the ongoing war. They are cheaper and harder to get detected, but there are challenges as well. Sea drones need constant communication with their controller and are difficult to handle while tracking moving targets, and more.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia: Ukrainian ports will face further attacks</strong></h2>

<p>After Ukrainian sea drones attacked Russian assets, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev suggested that Moscow would launch more strikes against Ukrainian ports in response to Kyiv's attacks in the Black Sea. He also threatened to hand Ukraine "an ecological catastrophe".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A Ukrainian security source said that drones on August 4 targeted a port in southern Russia, which was used as a base by Moscow's Black Sea fleet. Moscow has denied claims related to any attack, but a video was released in which a Russian vessel was seen being moved and towed as if it was damaged.

A Ukrainian security source said that drones on August 4 targeted a port in southern Russia, which was used as a base by Moscow's Black Sea fleet. Moscow has denied claims related to any attack, but a video was released in which a Russian vessel was seen being moved and towed as if it was damaged. Such accusations are not new. During the course of the Russia-Ukraine war, Russian authorities have accused Ukraine of launching sea drones against its vessels. If it is true, this will become a turning point in the ongoing war, with Ukraine taking the war to Russia and key Russian assets. Analysts and experts across the world are discussing ways to end the war, which was launched by Russian President Vladimir Putin last year on February 24. But attacks by sea drones can be seen as an escalation. The use of aerial drones is not quite extensive during the conflict yet, but this new type of seaborne technology is gaining traction. Experts have said that it has the potential to revolutionise the future of naval warfare. Also read: At least 8 killed, 31 injured after two Russian missiles strike Ukrainian city What are sea drones? Underwater drones or remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) are submersible, tethered, and highly manoeuvrable drones designed to operate underwater. Sea drone has built-in explosives and cameras, which sends images and videos to the person who is controlling them. Underwater ROVs come in a variety of sizes and can also be customised to fulfil the specific requirements of a wide range of maritime and subsea industries and applications. Many agencies and organisations that previously relied on expensive submarines and human divers to carry out underwater activities, have replaced them with underwater ROVs due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness. Asset monitoring, infrastructure inspections, public safety, search and rescue/recovery, defence and security, academia, and environmental conservation are a few examples. Also read: Zelensky assassination plot thwarted? Ukraine detains woman over alleged plan to attack president Use of sea drones Sea drones are used in aquaculture, shipping, offshore energy, utilities, public works, search and rescue, academia, and defence. The usage in defence and security is vital and these drones can be helped to clear mines, carry out surveillance or detonate near targets like enemy ships. Because of their compact size and 360° omnidirectional manoeuvrability, underwater drones are a safe and efficient way to remotely evaluate and monitor assets and conduct inspections while reducing both operational costs and human risks. Use of sea drones in the Russia-Ukraine war Since the start of the war, several reports have emerged of sea drones. Once, one underwater drone reportedly washed up on the shores of Russia-occupied Crimea. Ukraine also unveiled a prototype of an unmanned undersea drone called the Toloka TLK-150. However, there's no confirmed report. The number of attacks in the Black Sea has increased from both sides since Moscow exited a deal last month that had allowed Ukrainian grain exports via the shipping hub during the conflict between the two countries. Watch: North Korean hackers attacked systems of Russian missile maker × Media reports and announcements by Russian and Ukrainian authorities suggest that Kyiv launched a total of at least 12 attacks with sea drones. They apparently targeted military ships, the naval base in Sevastopol, and Novorossiysk harbour. A Ukrainian intelligence source told the news agency Reuters that on August 5 a Ukrainian maritime drone carrying 450 kg of explosives hit a Russian tanker near the Crime bridge. The tanker was damaged in the attack and two tugboats had arrived at the scene, the state-run TASS news agency said, citing the Maritime Rescue Centre. The Moscow Times identified the vessel as the chemical tanker SIG, which is under US sanctions for supplying jet fuel to Russian forces in Syria supporting President Bashar al-Assad. Traffic on the bridge linking the Moscow-annexed Crimean peninsula to Russia's mainland was halted for around three hours and resumed early Saturday, according to the highways information centre's Telegram channel. On August 4, Ukraine said it had carried out a seaborne drone strike on a Russian navy ship at Novorossiysk naval base in southern Russia. Moscow hasn't reported any damage, but source-based media reports said that there was a crew of around 100 Russian servicemen on the vessel when it was attacked by a sea drone carrying 450 kilogrammes of TNT. In May, images emerged showing drone ships approaching the Ivan Khurs, a Russian intelligence-gathering ship, however, it is unknown whether the ship was harmed. There have been other similar instances as well. Such incidents show that sea drones are capable of reaching any target, including those that are a lot farther away. Reports suggest that Ukraine's deployment of sea drones is at a relatively low cost. This could emerge as a new era for naval warfare and a crucial stage in the ongoing war. They are cheaper and harder to get detected, but there are challenges as well. Sea drones need constant communication with their controller and are difficult to handle while tracking moving targets, and more. Russia: Ukrainian ports will face further attacks After Ukrainian sea drones attacked Russian assets, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev suggested that Moscow would launch more strikes against Ukrainian ports in response to Kyiv's attacks in the Black Sea. He also threatened to hand Ukraine "an ecological catastrophe". (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.

Sea drones in Russia-Ukraine war: Will they revolutionise the future of naval warfare?

<p>An unidentified European nation has struck a deal with a Belgian arms trader to send dozens of secondhand Leopard 1 tanks to Ukraine fighting Russia’s invasion for more than a year now, the Guardian reported.</p>

<p>The tanks have been sold by private defence company OIP Land Systems, which reportedly purchased 50 tanks from the Belgian government around five years ago.</p>

<p>The tanks were sold as&nbsp;part of a wider trend among European nations to cut down their defence budgets. Now, the obsolete tanks are in demand again as the West struggles to source defence equipment for the Ukrainian forces.</p>

<h2><strong>Did a German company buy the tanks?</strong></h2>

<p>Freddy Versluys, CEO of OIP Land Systems, said he could not name the buyer of the tanks due to a confidentiality clause but a source cited by the Guardian said a German buyer was behind the deal.</p>

<p>Additionally, Germany’s Handelsblatt newspaper published Tuesday (August 8) that arms maker Rheinmetall had bought the tanks, and planned to export most of them to Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>When will the tanks enter battlefield?</strong></h2>

<p>Versluys said that it could take more than six months for the tanks to join the Ukrainian army. Of the 49 tanks sold, over a dozen would be used for spare parts to help repair others, and then the overhauled tanks will be sent to the buyer.</p>

<p>Versluys added that it could take more than $1mn in renovation costs on each tank before it is ready for joining the fight against the mighty Russian army.</p>

<h2><strong>Background to the recent development</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this year, several of Kyiv's Western allies agreed to provide Ukraine with modern Leopard 2 tanks and older Leopard 1 models.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Leopard 1, originating from the 1960s, is lighter and less potent compared to the newer Leopard 2 tanks.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-west-getting-sobering-updates-on-ukrainian-counteroffensive-623572"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: West getting `sobering` updates on Ukrainian counteroffensive&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p>The versions offered by Versluys underwent their latest upgrades in the 1990s. The Belgian defence ministry spokesperson opted not to give&nbsp;any comments regarding the tank sale.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The invasion of Ukraine by Russia and subsequent unparalleled Western military assistance has caused a surge in the demand for heavy weaponry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine making small gains with Western equipment :Reports | Russia-Ukraine War</strong></p>

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<p>As European Union countries find their weapon stockpile significantly diminished, they have begun seeking aid from private companies such as OIP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Versluys had previously sold 46 M113 light armoured vehicles to the UK, which were subsequently transferred to Ukraine as part of a comprehensive military package.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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An unidentified European nation has struck a deal with a Belgian arms trader to send dozens of secondhand Leopard 1 tanks to Ukraine fighting Russia’s invasion for more than a year now, the Guardian reported.

An unidentified European nation has struck a deal with a Belgian arms trader to send dozens of secondhand Leopard 1 tanks to Ukraine fighting Russia’s invasion for more than a year now, the Guardian reported. The tanks have been sold by private defence company OIP Land Systems, which reportedly purchased 50 tanks from the Belgian government around five years ago. The tanks were sold as part of a wider trend among European nations to cut down their defence budgets. Now, the obsolete tanks are in demand again as the West struggles to source defence equipment for the Ukrainian forces. Did a German company buy the tanks? Freddy Versluys, CEO of OIP Land Systems, said he could not name the buyer of the tanks due to a confidentiality clause but a source cited by the Guardian said a German buyer was behind the deal. Additionally, Germany’s Handelsblatt newspaper published Tuesday (August 8) that arms maker Rheinmetall had bought the tanks, and planned to export most of them to Ukraine. When will the tanks enter battlefield? Versluys said that it could take more than six months for the tanks to join the Ukrainian army. Of the 49 tanks sold, over a dozen would be used for spare parts to help repair others, and then the overhauled tanks will be sent to the buyer. Versluys added that it could take more than $1mn in renovation costs on each tank before it is ready for joining the fight against the mighty Russian army. Background to the recent development Earlier this year, several of Kyiv's Western allies agreed to provide Ukraine with modern Leopard 2 tanks and older Leopard 1 models. The Leopard 1, originating from the 1960s, is lighter and less potent compared to the newer Leopard 2 tanks. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: West getting `sobering` updates on Ukrainian counteroffensive The versions offered by Versluys underwent their latest upgrades in the 1990s. The Belgian defence ministry spokesperson opted not to give any comments regarding the tank sale. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia and subsequent unparalleled Western military assistance has caused a surge in the demand for heavy weaponry. Watch: Ukraine making small gains with Western equipment :Reports | Russia-Ukraine War × As European Union countries find their weapon stockpile significantly diminished, they have begun seeking aid from private companies such as OIP. Earlier, Versluys had previously sold 46 M113 light armoured vehicles to the UK, which were subsequently transferred to Ukraine as part of a comprehensive military package. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Unnamed European country buys dozens of Leopard 1 tanks from Belgian trader for Ukraine: Report

<p>Ukraine claimed in recent weeks that its counteroffensive is underway and also said that the nation was making advances on all fronts despite consistent Russian attacks, but there are some evident hiccups.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A CNN report mentioned that four senior US and Western officials briefed on the latest intelligence told the US-based media outlet that they described&nbsp;increasingly "sobering" assessments about the ability of the Ukrainian forces to retake significant territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A senior Western diplomat told CNN that "they're still going to see, for the next couple of weeks, if there is a chance of making some progress. But for them to really make progress that would change the balance of this conflict, I think, it's extremely, highly unlikely."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/5-killed-31-injured-after-two-russian-missiles-strike-ukrainian-city-623255">At least 8 killed, 31 injured after two Russian missiles strike Ukrainian city</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted, Rep. Mike Quigley, an Illinois Democrat, said: "Our briefings are sobering. We're reminded of the challenges they face."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Quigley, who recently returned from meetings in Europe with US commanders training Ukrainian armored force,s said "this is the most difficult time of the war".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned the issues for Ukrainian forces as it noted that breaking through Russia's defensive lines in the eastern and southern parts is quite challenging. Tens of thousands of mines, and vast networks of trenches are not making their way wearier.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-again-asks-philippines-to-remove-grounded-ship-from-disputed-waters-623551">China again asks Philippines to remove grounded ship from disputed waters</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>A senior Western diplomat said, "Russians have a number of defensive lines and they [Ukrainian forces] haven't really gone through the first line".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official said, "even if they would keep on fighting for the next several weeks, if they haven't been able to make more breakthroughs throughout these last seven, eight weeks, what is the likelihood that they will suddenly, with more depleted forces, make them? Because the conditions are so hard."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia hits Ukrainian command post</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Russia's defence ministry said on Tuesday (August 8) that its forces had hit a Ukrainian command post in the eastern Ukrainian region of Pokrovsk, known as Krasnoarmeysk in Russia.</p>

<p>Ukrainian officials said Russian missiles had struck the city of Pokrovsk twice on Monday night, destroying a popular hotel and apartments, killing at least seven people including rescuers, and wounding scores.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>Russian missiles strike a hotel and apartments</strong></h2>

<p>Russian missile strikes on the eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk twice on Monday night shook the war-torn nation and destroyed a popular hotel and apartments. At least 15 people were killed and scores were wounded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said seven people, including five civilians, were killed. Overnight, regional officials said that eight people had died.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Klymenko said on the Telegram messaging app: "We are resuming clearing the rubble. At night, we were forced to suspend work due to the high threat of repeated shelling."&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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Ukraine claimed in recent weeks that its counteroffensive is underway and also said that the nation was making advances on all fronts despite consistent Russian attacks, but there are some evident hiccups.

Ukraine claimed in recent weeks that its counteroffensive is underway and also said that the nation was making advances on all fronts despite consistent Russian attacks, but there are some evident hiccups. A CNN report mentioned that four senior US and Western officials briefed on the latest intelligence told the US-based media outlet that they described increasingly "sobering" assessments about the ability of the Ukrainian forces to retake significant territory. A senior Western diplomat told CNN that "they're still going to see, for the next couple of weeks, if there is a chance of making some progress. But for them to really make progress that would change the balance of this conflict, I think, it's extremely, highly unlikely." Also read: At least 8 killed, 31 injured after two Russian missiles strike Ukrainian city As quoted, Rep. Mike Quigley, an Illinois Democrat, said: "Our briefings are sobering. We're reminded of the challenges they face." Quigley, who recently returned from meetings in Europe with US commanders training Ukrainian armored force,s said "this is the most difficult time of the war". The report mentioned the issues for Ukrainian forces as it noted that breaking through Russia's defensive lines in the eastern and southern parts is quite challenging. Tens of thousands of mines, and vast networks of trenches are not making their way wearier. Also read: China again asks Philippines to remove grounded ship from disputed waters A senior Western diplomat said, "Russians have a number of defensive lines and they [Ukrainian forces] haven't really gone through the first line". The official said, "even if they would keep on fighting for the next several weeks, if they haven't been able to make more breakthroughs throughout these last seven, eight weeks, what is the likelihood that they will suddenly, with more depleted forces, make them? Because the conditions are so hard." Russia hits Ukrainian command post Russia's defence ministry said on Tuesday (August 8) that its forces had hit a Ukrainian command post in the eastern Ukrainian region of Pokrovsk, known as Krasnoarmeysk in Russia. Ukrainian officials said Russian missiles had struck the city of Pokrovsk twice on Monday night, destroying a popular hotel and apartments, killing at least seven people including rescuers, and wounding scores. Watch this report: × Russian missiles strike a hotel and apartments Russian missile strikes on the eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk twice on Monday night shook the war-torn nation and destroyed a popular hotel and apartments. At least 15 people were killed and scores were wounded. Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said seven people, including five civilians, were killed. Overnight, regional officials said that eight people had died. Klymenko said on the Telegram messaging app: "We are resuming clearing the rubble. At night, we were forced to suspend work due to the high threat of repeated shelling." 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: West getting 'sobering' updates on Ukrainian counteroffensive

<p>The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) said on Monday (August 7) that a woman has been detained over an alleged plot of attacking President Volodymyr Zelensky when he visited a flood-hit region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SBU said that the woman, who hasn't been named, is a Russian informant "who was preparing an airstrike in the Mykolaiv region during the visit of the President of Ukraine".&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the SBU, the alleged informant "on the eve of the recent trip of the President of Ukraine to Mykolaiv region, was gathering intelligence about the planned visit."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/cape-town-taxi-strike-at-least-2-killed-3-injured-amid-clashes-uk-and-australia-issue-travel-warnings-623182">At least three killed after Russian shelling in Kherson, Kharkiv region: Ukraine</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;
<p>The security service also said that she "tried to establish the time and list of locations of the approximate route of the Head of State in the territory of the region."&nbsp;</p>
</p>

<p>However, her efforts were thwarted as SBU agents had obtained information about the "subversive activities of the suspect" and they took necessary action and they put in additional security measures during Zelensky's visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The SBU also said that she was seeking data on the location of electronic warfare systems and warehouses with ammunition of the armed forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-evacuate-village-ahead-of-first-lunar-mission-launch-in-50-years-this-week-heres-why-623156">Russia to evacuate village ahead of first lunar mission launch in 50 years: Here's why</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine making small gains with Western equipment&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The Ukrainian officers were monitoring the woman in order to get more information on her Russian handlers and her assignments.</p>

<p>The SBU said that she was caught "red-handed" by the officers as she attempted to pass intelligence data to the Russian secret services.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian security agency said that the woman lived in the small southern town of Ochakiv in the Mykolaiv region and formerly worked in a store at a military base there.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the SBU, she allegedly photographed locations and tried to get information from personal contacts in the area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She may face a charge of unauthorised dissemination of information about the movements of weapons and troops. If convicted, she could serve up to 12 years in prison.&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 Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) said on Monday (August 7) that a woman has been detained over an alleged plot of attacking President Volodymyr Zelensky when he visited a flood-hit region.

The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) said on Monday (August 7) that a woman has been detained over an alleged plot of attacking President Volodymyr Zelensky when he visited a flood-hit region. SBU said that the woman, who hasn't been named, is a Russian informant "who was preparing an airstrike in the Mykolaiv region during the visit of the President of Ukraine". According to the SBU, the alleged informant "on the eve of the recent trip of the President of Ukraine to Mykolaiv region, was gathering intelligence about the planned visit." Also read: At least three killed after Russian shelling in Kherson, Kharkiv region: Ukraine The security service also said that she "tried to establish the time and list of locations of the approximate route of the Head of State in the territory of the region." However, her efforts were thwarted as SBU agents had obtained information about the "subversive activities of the suspect" and they took necessary action and they put in additional security measures during Zelensky's visit. The SBU also said that she was seeking data on the location of electronic warfare systems and warehouses with ammunition of the armed forces. Also read: Russia to evacuate village ahead of first lunar mission launch in 50 years: Here's why Watch: Ukraine making small gains with Western equipment × The Ukrainian officers were monitoring the woman in order to get more information on her Russian handlers and her assignments. The SBU said that she was caught "red-handed" by the officers as she attempted to pass intelligence data to the Russian secret services. The Ukrainian security agency said that the woman lived in the small southern town of Ochakiv in the Mykolaiv region and formerly worked in a store at a military base there. According to the SBU, she allegedly photographed locations and tried to get information from personal contacts in the area. She may face a charge of unauthorised dissemination of information about the movements of weapons and troops. If convicted, she could serve up to 12 years in prison. 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 assassination plot thwarted? Ukraine detains woman over alleged plan to attack president

<p>Russia claims to have intercepted a United States drone over the Black Sea, on Saturday (August 5). Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that a Russian missile hit a facility of the Ukraine-based aeronautics group.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia's claims on US drone</strong></h2>

<p>The Russian defence ministry, in a statement, said that it scrambled a Su-30 fighter jet to “prevent a violation of the Russian state border” after a US Reaper MQ-9 military drone was detected over the Black Sea.</p>

<p>“As the Russian fighter approached, the foreign reconnaissance drone performed a U-turn away from the border,” said the Russian officials. The ministry also claimed that the drone belonged to the US Air Force.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “The Russian aircraft returned safely to its airbase, there was no violation of the border.” This comes as reports about incidents involving Russian and Western aircraft have multiplied over the Black Sea and Baltic Sea in recent months.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine drone strike</strong></h2>

<p>Both Russia and Ukraine reported that a Ukrainian sea drone laden with explosives struck a Russian fuel tanker overnight, on Saturday, near the Crimean bridge, in the second such attack in 24 hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bridge, in question, links Russia to Crimea, which Moscow seized from Ukraine in 2014. A Ukrainian intelligence source told Reuters that the drone with 450kg of explosives hit the SIG vessel as it transported fuel for the Russian military in Ukrainian territorial waters.</p>

<p>“The tanker was well loaded with fuel, so the ‘fireworks’ were seen from afar,” said the report by Reuters citing an intelligence source.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv is in the midst of its long-awaited counteroffensive against Moscow to recapture its territory and has been destroying Russia’s military infrastructure inside Russia or on Russian-controlled territory in Ukraine, as per reports.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russian missile strike hits Ukraine aeronautics firm</strong></h2>

<p>Zelensky, on Saturday (August 5), said that a Russian missile hit a facility of the Ukrainian aeronautics group Motor Sich, one of the companies requisitioned by the government since the beginning of Moscow’s invasion back in February 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Today, there was another Russian missile attack against our country. Kinzhals, Calibers. They hit Motor Sich,” said Zelensky, during his evening address. The facility is located near Khmelnytskyi in western Ukraine around 300 kilometres southwest of Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Ukrainian president, the strike included Russia’s hypersonic Kinzhal weapons, adding that “some of the missiles were shot down.” The Khmelnytskyi region which is hundreds of kilometres from the front lines is also home to a major Ukrainian airbase and is regularly targeted by Russian strikes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Motor Sich makes plane and helicopter engines and other components and was taken over by the government in Kyiv as a part of its “strategic” firms taken over by Ukraine’s defence ministry last November.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></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 claims to have intercepted a United States drone over the Black Sea, on Saturday (August 5). Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that a Russian missile hit a facility of the Ukraine-based aeronautics group.

Russia claims to have intercepted a United States drone over the Black Sea, on Saturday (August 5). Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that a Russian missile hit a facility of the Ukraine-based aeronautics group. Russia's claims on US drone The Russian defence ministry, in a statement, said that it scrambled a Su-30 fighter jet to “prevent a violation of the Russian state border” after a US Reaper MQ-9 military drone was detected over the Black Sea. “As the Russian fighter approached, the foreign reconnaissance drone performed a U-turn away from the border,” said the Russian officials. The ministry also claimed that the drone belonged to the US Air Force. It added, “The Russian aircraft returned safely to its airbase, there was no violation of the border.” This comes as reports about incidents involving Russian and Western aircraft have multiplied over the Black Sea and Baltic Sea in recent months. Ukraine drone strike Both Russia and Ukraine reported that a Ukrainian sea drone laden with explosives struck a Russian fuel tanker overnight, on Saturday, near the Crimean bridge, in the second such attack in 24 hours. The bridge, in question, links Russia to Crimea, which Moscow seized from Ukraine in 2014. A Ukrainian intelligence source told Reuters that the drone with 450kg of explosives hit the SIG vessel as it transported fuel for the Russian military in Ukrainian territorial waters. “The tanker was well loaded with fuel, so the ‘fireworks’ were seen from afar,” said the report by Reuters citing an intelligence source. Kyiv is in the midst of its long-awaited counteroffensive against Moscow to recapture its territory and has been destroying Russia’s military infrastructure inside Russia or on Russian-controlled territory in Ukraine, as per reports. Russian missile strike hits Ukraine aeronautics firm Zelensky, on Saturday (August 5), said that a Russian missile hit a facility of the Ukrainian aeronautics group Motor Sich, one of the companies requisitioned by the government since the beginning of Moscow’s invasion back in February 2022. “Today, there was another Russian missile attack against our country. Kinzhals, Calibers. They hit Motor Sich,” said Zelensky, during his evening address. The facility is located near Khmelnytskyi in western Ukraine around 300 kilometres southwest of Kyiv. According to the Ukrainian president, the strike included Russia’s hypersonic Kinzhal weapons, adding that “some of the missiles were shot down.” The Khmelnytskyi region which is hundreds of kilometres from the front lines is also home to a major Ukrainian airbase and is regularly targeted by Russian strikes. Notably, Motor Sich makes plane and helicopter engines and other components and was taken over by the government in Kyiv as a part of its “strategic” firms taken over by Ukraine’s defence ministry last November. (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 claims to have intercepted US drone over Black Sea

<p>Ukraine presented its much-awaited and equally anticipated 10-point peace formula during talks held in Saudi Arabia without Russian participation, various sources cited by news agency AFP said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meeting had senior officials from approximately 40 countries, including the US, China, and India. The primary goal of the discussions was to seek agreement on crucial principles for bringing an end to the ongoing war in Ukraine, a conflict that has had far-reaching implications on the global economy.</p>

<p>The meeting, hosted by Saudi Arabia, was seen as&nbsp;an attempt by the Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman to act as a mediator to resolve the dispute and end the conflict which started in February last year.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's peace formula supported by 'multiple' countries</strong></h2>

<p>A representative of the Ukrainian delegation reportedly said that the proposed 10-point peace formula received support from multiple participating countries. The representative, however, did not disclose the specific countries who purportedly supported Ukrainian stance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two-day meeting in Jeddah did not have any representation from Russia, the principal party in the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thereby, the Jeddah meet has emerged as a strategic diplomatic effort by Ukraine to expand its support network beyond its traditional Western allies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The country aimed to foster alliances with countries from the Global South, seeking assistance in reaching a viable solution to the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>By engaging with a broader array of nations, Ukraine hoped to garner additional backing for its peace initiatives.</p>

<p>For the Jeddah summit, sources cited by The Indian Express said that the 30 invitees for the summit included&nbsp;Brazil, South Africa, Chile, Egypt, the European Union, Indonesia, Mexico, Poland, the United Kingdom, the United States and Zambia.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's 10-point peace plan: The central goal</strong></h2>

<p>At the heart of Ukraine's 10-point proposed peace plan formula remained a call for the complete withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territory. This plan aimed to hold Russia accountable for war atrocities and requires Moscow to surrender all captured Ukrainian territory and pay damages.</p>

<p>Russia has rejected the plan in the past.</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's office had previously said that the Jeddah meeting would focus on this critical aspect. Achieving this goal would be paramount in restoring peace and stability to the region, Kyiv maintains.</p>

<p>The gathering in Jeddah followed earlier informal talks in Copenhagen, which had not resulted in an official statement. However, the Ukrainian source cited by news agency AFP said that the 10-point formula gained more significant support during the Jeddah meeting than it had in Copenhagen.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia-Ukraine war: Significance of Jeddah talks</strong></h2>

<p>The significance of the meeting was highlighted by the presence of US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who led the American delegation in Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, Saudi Arabia demonstrated its willingness to play a constructive role in the peace process, stating its readiness to use its influence and good offices towards achieving a lasting and sustainable solution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This eagerness was evident in the Kingdom's hosting of President Zelensky at an Arab summit in Jeddah earlier in May, during which he urged leaders to acknowledge the devastating impact of Russia's invasion on Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>Jeddah talks: What is the bottom line?</strong></h2>

<p>The talks in Saudi Arabia, while provided a platform for critical discussions and diplomatic efforts to bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine, the absence of Russia in the process has raised question about viability of the peace process as whole.</p>

<h2><strong>Previous peace proposals</strong></h2>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin in June had accused Ukraine of signing a peace treaty with Russia to end the ongoing war which he alleged Kyiv did not honour.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-ukraine-signed-peace-treaty-with-russia-in-spring-of-2022-then-threw-it-into-garbage-of-history-605673">Putin says Ukraine signed peace treaty with Russia in spring of 2022, then threw it into 'garbage of history'</a></strong></p>

<p>Putin's comments came during a meeting with the leaders of African Union spearheaded by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at St. Petersberg's historic Konstantinovsky Palace on June 17.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin had said that in the spring of 2022 — when the war between Russia and Ukraine was in its initial phase — a peace treaty was signed by the leader of negotiation group from the Ukrainian side and his Russian counterpart in Istanbul.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was called Treaty of permanent neutrality and security guarantees of Ukraine," Putin said, after flapping the supposed draft of the treaty in air, stating: "We never agreed with the Ukrainian side that the text will be confidential but we never showed it before nor commented on it."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Saudi Arabia hosted Ukraine Peace Talks conclude</strong></p>

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<p>"This draft of the treaty was initialled by the leader of the negotiation group from Kyiv. He put his signature. There it exists," he added while showing the supposed draft of the treaty.</p>

<p>The peace agreement was immediately discarded by Ukraine as soon as Russia obliged the request and withdrew troops from Kyiv, Putin accused.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Where are the guarantees that they will not renounce any other agreements in the future?," he maintained.</p>

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Ukraine presented its much-awaited and equally anticipated 10-point peace formula during talks held in Saudi Arabia without Russian participation, various sources cited by news agency AFP said.

Ukraine presented its much-awaited and equally anticipated 10-point peace formula during talks held in Saudi Arabia without Russian participation, various sources cited by news agency AFP said. The meeting had senior officials from approximately 40 countries, including the US, China, and India. The primary goal of the discussions was to seek agreement on crucial principles for bringing an end to the ongoing war in Ukraine, a conflict that has had far-reaching implications on the global economy. The meeting, hosted by Saudi Arabia, was seen as an attempt by the Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman to act as a mediator to resolve the dispute and end the conflict which started in February last year. Ukraine's peace formula supported by 'multiple' countries A representative of the Ukrainian delegation reportedly said that the proposed 10-point peace formula received support from multiple participating countries. The representative, however, did not disclose the specific countries who purportedly supported Ukrainian stance. The two-day meeting in Jeddah did not have any representation from Russia, the principal party in the conflict. Thereby, the Jeddah meet has emerged as a strategic diplomatic effort by Ukraine to expand its support network beyond its traditional Western allies. The country aimed to foster alliances with countries from the Global South, seeking assistance in reaching a viable solution to the conflict. By engaging with a broader array of nations, Ukraine hoped to garner additional backing for its peace initiatives. For the Jeddah summit, sources cited by The Indian Express said that the 30 invitees for the summit included Brazil, South Africa, Chile, Egypt, the European Union, Indonesia, Mexico, Poland, the United Kingdom, the United States and Zambia. Ukraine's 10-point peace plan: The central goal At the heart of Ukraine's 10-point proposed peace plan formula remained a call for the complete withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territory. This plan aimed to hold Russia accountable for war atrocities and requires Moscow to surrender all captured Ukrainian territory and pay damages. Russia has rejected the plan in the past. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's office had previously said that the Jeddah meeting would focus on this critical aspect. Achieving this goal would be paramount in restoring peace and stability to the region, Kyiv maintains. The gathering in Jeddah followed earlier informal talks in Copenhagen, which had not resulted in an official statement. However, the Ukrainian source cited by news agency AFP said that the 10-point formula gained more significant support during the Jeddah meeting than it had in Copenhagen. Russia-Ukraine war: Significance of Jeddah talks The significance of the meeting was highlighted by the presence of US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who led the American delegation in Saudi Arabia. Moreover, Saudi Arabia demonstrated its willingness to play a constructive role in the peace process, stating its readiness to use its influence and good offices towards achieving a lasting and sustainable solution. This eagerness was evident in the Kingdom's hosting of President Zelensky at an Arab summit in Jeddah earlier in May, during which he urged leaders to acknowledge the devastating impact of Russia's invasion on Ukraine. Jeddah talks: What is the bottom line? The talks in Saudi Arabia, while provided a platform for critical discussions and diplomatic efforts to bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine, the absence of Russia in the process has raised question about viability of the peace process as whole. Previous peace proposals Russian President Vladimir Putin in June had accused Ukraine of signing a peace treaty with Russia to end the ongoing war which he alleged Kyiv did not honour. Also read | Putin says Ukraine signed peace treaty with Russia in spring of 2022, then threw it into 'garbage of history' Putin's comments came during a meeting with the leaders of African Union spearheaded by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at St. Petersberg's historic Konstantinovsky Palace on June 17. Putin had said that in the spring of 2022 — when the war between Russia and Ukraine was in its initial phase — a peace treaty was signed by the leader of negotiation group from the Ukrainian side and his Russian counterpart in Istanbul. "It was called Treaty of permanent neutrality and security guarantees of Ukraine," Putin said, after flapping the supposed draft of the treaty in air, stating: "We never agreed with the Ukrainian side that the text will be confidential but we never showed it before nor commented on it." Also watch | Saudi Arabia hosted Ukraine Peace Talks conclude × "This draft of the treaty was initialled by the leader of the negotiation group from Kyiv. He put his signature. There it exists," he added while showing the supposed draft of the treaty. The peace agreement was immediately discarded by Ukraine as soon as Russia obliged the request and withdrew troops from Kyiv, Putin accused. "Where are the guarantees that they will not renounce any other agreements in the future?," he maintained. 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: Making sense of talks to end Ukraine war that did not include Russia

<p>Ukraine's air force on Sunday claimed it shot down 30 cruise missiles out of 40 allegedly launched by the Russian side and "all Shahed drones" launched by Russian forces in an overnight attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Thirty cruise missiles and 27 attack drones were destroyed," Ukrainian air force said on Telegram.</p>

<p>It added that Russia launched three Kinzhal hypersonic missiles. The air force, however, did not provide information if the missile detonated at the target site or was destroyed by Ukrainian defence.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia says 'all targets were hit' in Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Russia on Sunday said that its forces struck military airbases in the Khmelnytskyi and Rivne regions in western Ukraine and that "all targets were hit."</p>

<p>"Overnight Russia's armed forces carried out strike... on Ukrainian armed forces airbases around the settlements of Starokostiantyniv in the Khmelnytskyi region and Dubno in the Rivne region," the Russian defence ministry said.</p>

<p>Earlier on August 6th, the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Russia carried out the attack on one of the blood transfusion centres, an alleged act that he termed as&nbsp;"war crime". The Russian side has not reacted on Zelensky's claim of attack on the blood transfusion centre.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-slams-russias-attack-on-blood-transfusion-centre-terms-it-war-crime-622771">Zelensky slams Russia's attack on blood transfusion centre, terms it ‘war crime’</a></strong></p>

<p>A "guided air bomb" blew up the centre in Kupiansk, a city which is a few dozen kilometres away from the Russian border, Zelensky said.</p>

<p>"Rescuers are extinguishing the fire," the Ukrainian president wrote on social media, adding: "This war crime alone says everything about Russian aggression."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;How has the Russia- Ukraine war changed the world? | Latest English News | WION</strong></p>

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<p>At the same time, a key factory was struck in a separate attack&nbsp;just hours after a Russian tanker was hit in the Kerch Strait by Kyiv's forces.<br />
<br />
The attacks were the latest since Moscow exited a deal last month which would have ensured Ukraine can still export grain amid the&nbsp;ongoing conflict.&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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Ukraine's air force on Sunday claimed it shot down 30 cruise missiles out of 40 allegedly launched by the Russian side and "all Shahed drones" launched by Russian forces in an overnight attack.

Ukraine's air force on Sunday claimed it shot down 30 cruise missiles out of 40 allegedly launched by the Russian side and "all Shahed drones" launched by Russian forces in an overnight attack. "Thirty cruise missiles and 27 attack drones were destroyed," Ukrainian air force said on Telegram. It added that Russia launched three Kinzhal hypersonic missiles. The air force, however, did not provide information if the missile detonated at the target site or was destroyed by Ukrainian defence. Russia says 'all targets were hit' in Ukraine Meanwhile, Russia on Sunday said that its forces struck military airbases in the Khmelnytskyi and Rivne regions in western Ukraine and that "all targets were hit." "Overnight Russia's armed forces carried out strike... on Ukrainian armed forces airbases around the settlements of Starokostiantyniv in the Khmelnytskyi region and Dubno in the Rivne region," the Russian defence ministry said. Earlier on August 6th, the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Russia carried out the attack on one of the blood transfusion centres, an alleged act that he termed as "war crime". The Russian side has not reacted on Zelensky's claim of attack on the blood transfusion centre. Also read | Zelensky slams Russia's attack on blood transfusion centre, terms it ‘war crime’ A "guided air bomb" blew up the centre in Kupiansk, a city which is a few dozen kilometres away from the Russian border, Zelensky said. "Rescuers are extinguishing the fire," the Ukrainian president wrote on social media, adding: "This war crime alone says everything about Russian aggression." Also watch | How has the Russia- Ukraine war changed the world? | Latest English News | WION × At the same time, a key factory was struck in a separate attack just hours after a Russian tanker was hit in the Kerch Strait by Kyiv's forces. The attacks were the latest since Moscow exited a deal last month which would have ensured Ukraine can still export grain amid the ongoing conflict. 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 it downed 30 Russian cruise missiles, all drones; Moscow insists all military targets were hit

<p>At the Saudi Arabia-hosted meeting aimed at resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Indian National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval emphasised the need for a solution acceptable to all relevant stakeholders.</p>

<p>The meeting, attended by representatives from over 40 countries, sought to find a just and enduring resolution to the crisis that has had significant repercussions on the global south, leading to soaring food, fuel, and fertiliser prices.</p>

<p>Russia was absent from the meeting, while participants from countries such as India, Brazil, and China showcased their united commitment to finding common ground and restoring stability in the region.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-attends-saudi-hosted-ukraine-peace-talks-without-russia-622630">India attends Saudi-hosted Ukraine peace talks, without Russia</a></p>

<p>While calling for an inclusive solution,&nbsp;NSA Ajit Doval reiterated India's commitment to the principles enshrined in the UN Charter and international law, emphasising the importance of respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity among all nations.</p>

<p>India has consistently advocated for dialogue and diplomacy since the conflict erupted last year, viewing them as the most viable means to achieve lasting peace. The Saudi-led effort aimed to bring together nations from different regions, particularly those in the global south, to address the ongoing crisis.</p>

<p>The conflict has taken a heavy toll on countries in the global south, affecting economies and causing essential commodity prices to surge. NSA Doval underscored the challenges faced by these nations and stressed the importance of both resolving the conflict and mitigating its consequences.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: US Envoy calls Ajit Doval an 'International treasure'</strong></p>

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<p>India has been actively engaged with both Russia and Ukraine at the highest levels since the conflict's inception, demonstrating its focus on finding a comprehensive and lasting solution.&nbsp;The meeting confronted a dual challenge - resolving the conflict itself and alleviating its impact.</p>

<p>NSA Doval emphasised the importance of simultaneously directing efforts on both fronts. He noted that more groundwork is needed to make progress on these critical tasks.</p>

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At the Saudi Arabia-hosted meeting aimed at resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Indian National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval emphasised the need for a solution acceptable to all relevant stakeholders.

At the Saudi Arabia-hosted meeting aimed at resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Indian National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval emphasised the need for a solution acceptable to all relevant stakeholders. The meeting, attended by representatives from over 40 countries, sought to find a just and enduring resolution to the crisis that has had significant repercussions on the global south, leading to soaring food, fuel, and fertiliser prices. Russia was absent from the meeting, while participants from countries such as India, Brazil, and China showcased their united commitment to finding common ground and restoring stability in the region. ALSO READ | India attends Saudi-hosted Ukraine peace talks, without Russia While calling for an inclusive solution, NSA Ajit Doval reiterated India's commitment to the principles enshrined in the UN Charter and international law, emphasising the importance of respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity among all nations. India has consistently advocated for dialogue and diplomacy since the conflict erupted last year, viewing them as the most viable means to achieve lasting peace. The Saudi-led effort aimed to bring together nations from different regions, particularly those in the global south, to address the ongoing crisis. The conflict has taken a heavy toll on countries in the global south, affecting economies and causing essential commodity prices to surge. NSA Doval underscored the challenges faced by these nations and stressed the importance of both resolving the conflict and mitigating its consequences. WATCH | Gravitas: US Envoy calls Ajit Doval an 'International treasure' India has been actively engaged with both Russia and Ukraine at the highest levels since the conflict's inception, demonstrating its focus on finding a comprehensive and lasting solution. The meeting confronted a dual challenge - resolving the conflict itself and alleviating its impact. NSA Doval emphasised the importance of simultaneously directing efforts on both fronts. He noted that more groundwork is needed to make progress on these critical tasks. 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

NSA Ajit Doval calls for inclusive solution to Ukraine conflict at Saudi meet

<p>Russian-appointed officials in Crimea said that explosions were heard near the bridge which links the Russian mainland to the annexed region early on Saturday (August 5), stating that the blasts were related to a Ukrainian drone attack carried out on a Russian tanker.<br />
<br />
Russia's sea rescue service, which is present in the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk, stated that they had dispatched tugboats to assist the tanker, which suffered damages and was not able to operate on its own.<br />
<br />
"We can say that the tanker is damaged in the (Kerch) strait, only on the south side," the rescue centre was quoted as saying by Russia's Tass news agency. "They will deal with it now on whether to take it under tow or not. It is standing at anchor for the moment. The machine room suffered some damage, not too badly,” it added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-thwart-ukrainian-attacks-on-naval-base-in-black-sea-crimean-peninsula-622251">Russia claims it thwarted Ukrainian attacks on naval base in Black Sea, Crimean peninsula</a></p>

<p>A Russian warship suffered serious damage in Ukraine's overnight naval drone attack on Russia's navy base at Novorossiysk. This marked the first time the Ukrainian navy tried to project its powers beyond the shores of the country.<br />
<br />
Russia-installed officials in Crimea, which was annexed by Moscow in 2014, stated that the latest explosions were not related to the bridge, which has twice come under attack in the 17-month-old Russian invasion of Ukraine.<br />
<br />
Ukraine, which rarely gives comments on attacks carried out on Russian targets, did not give any official statement on the incident. For some time, the officials halted the traffic on the bridge which was the third such stop imposed in the last 24 hours, but later resumed.<br />
<br />
"Once again, there was no direct attack on the Crimea bridge and there was no explosion in the immediate vicinity," said Oleg Kryuchkov, an adviser to the Russia-installed governor of Crimea, as quoted by Russian news agencies.</p>

<h2><strong>Shattered equipment and fixtures after explosions</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukraine's UNIAN news agency stated that three explosions were reported in the area. Pro-Russian officials and Ukrainian news reports in occupied parts of Ukraine stated that a tanker vessel, which was operating under a Russian flag and in the Kerch Strait and was identified as the SIG, was attacked by Ukrainian drones.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas | Ukraine War: Poland rushes troops to its border with Belarus | Is the war expanding?</strong></p>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Russian-appointed official in Ukraine's southeastern region of Zaporizhzhia Vladimir Rogov shared an audio clip in which the vessel sent a request to tugboats for towing the tanker. Rogov, writing on the Telegram messaging app, shared pictures of what he said was shattered equipment and fixtures inside the vessels.<br />
<br />
He said that the ship was supplying oil to Russian troops in Syria. The bridge, which was completed by Russia in 2018, four years after the peninsula was annexed by Moscow from Ukraine, has been subjected to two major attacks since Russia invaded Ukraine, the most recent one occurred last month.
<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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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian-appointed officials in Crimea said that explosions were heard near the bridge which links the Russian mainland to the annexed region early on Saturday (August 5), stating that the blasts were related to a Ukrainian drone attack carried out on a Russian tanker.

Russian-appointed officials in Crimea said that explosions were heard near the bridge which links the Russian mainland to the annexed region early on Saturday (August 5), stating that the blasts were related to a Ukrainian drone attack carried out on a Russian tanker. Russia's sea rescue service, which is present in the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk, stated that they had dispatched tugboats to assist the tanker, which suffered damages and was not able to operate on its own. "We can say that the tanker is damaged in the (Kerch) strait, only on the south side," the rescue centre was quoted as saying by Russia's Tass news agency. "They will deal with it now on whether to take it under tow or not. It is standing at anchor for the moment. The machine room suffered some damage, not too badly,” it added. ALSO READ | Russia claims it thwarted Ukrainian attacks on naval base in Black Sea, Crimean peninsula A Russian warship suffered serious damage in Ukraine's overnight naval drone attack on Russia's navy base at Novorossiysk. This marked the first time the Ukrainian navy tried to project its powers beyond the shores of the country. Russia-installed officials in Crimea, which was annexed by Moscow in 2014, stated that the latest explosions were not related to the bridge, which has twice come under attack in the 17-month-old Russian invasion of Ukraine. Ukraine, which rarely gives comments on attacks carried out on Russian targets, did not give any official statement on the incident. For some time, the officials halted the traffic on the bridge which was the third such stop imposed in the last 24 hours, but later resumed. "Once again, there was no direct attack on the Crimea bridge and there was no explosion in the immediate vicinity," said Oleg Kryuchkov, an adviser to the Russia-installed governor of Crimea, as quoted by Russian news agencies. Shattered equipment and fixtures after explosions Meanwhile, Ukraine's UNIAN news agency stated that three explosions were reported in the area. Pro-Russian officials and Ukrainian news reports in occupied parts of Ukraine stated that a tanker vessel, which was operating under a Russian flag and in the Kerch Strait and was identified as the SIG, was attacked by Ukrainian drones. WATCH | Gravitas | Ukraine War: Poland rushes troops to its border with Belarus | Is the war expanding? Russian-appointed official in Ukraine's southeastern region of Zaporizhzhia Vladimir Rogov shared an audio clip in which the vessel sent a request to tugboats for towing the tanker. Rogov, writing on the Telegram messaging app, shared pictures of what he said was shattered equipment and fixtures inside the vessels. He said that the ship was supplying oil to Russian troops in Syria. The bridge, which was completed by Russia in 2018, four years after the peninsula was annexed by Moscow from Ukraine, has been subjected to two major attacks since Russia invaded Ukraine, the most recent one occurred last month. 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

Explosions in Crimea, Russian tanker hit in Ukrainian drone attack, claim officials

<p>Polish Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski said on Friday (August 4) that the authorities have detained another suspected member of a Russian spy network. The latest arrest has brought the total number of people detained as part of an investigation to 16.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kaminski wrote on messaging platform X, formerly known as Twitter, that the (Internal Security Agency) ABW detained another man, the 16th person, suspected of participating in a Russian spy network.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Belarusian Mikhail A. took part in reconnaissance of military facilities and ports. He also carried out propaganda activities for Russia. He was taken into custody," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A statement released by the press service of Poland's minister-coordinator of intelligence and security services said that the man came to Poland in 2021 after spending several years in Russia, including six years in jail.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iaea-says-no-explosives-and-mines-found-on-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-roofs-622436">IAEA says no explosives and mines found on Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant roofs</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The statement said, "The evidence, in this case, suggests that he was regularly paid for the execution of tasks designed to undermine both internal and external security of Poland."&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, "The Belarusian individual pleaded partly guilty... He was charged with taking part in the activity of foreign intelligence targeted against Poland... Upon the court's decision, he has been remanded in custody for a period of three months."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Poland claims that Russian spies are targeting a hub for Western military supplies to Ukraine, Warsaw also accuses Russia and Belarus of trying to destabilise it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia not invited to peace talks on Ukraine in Jeddah&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-i-video-shows-russian-warship-moving-towed-after-sea-drone-attack-claimed-by-ukraine-622401">Watch I Video shows Russian warship moving, towed after sea drone attack claimed by Ukraine</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Will the Ukraine war spill over to other regions?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Russia's invasion of Ukraine started last year in February and left a significant impact on people and economies worldwide, but the latest developments pose the threat of the war spreading and engulfing some more nations. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Poland is getting impacted due to the reported presence of Wagner mercenaries on its border. Warsaw recently decided to move military units to the country's east due to the Wagner Group's presence in Belarus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Belarusian defence ministry recently said that the Wagner mercenaries had started to train Belarusian special forces at a military range just a few miles from the border with Poland, a NATO member.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Analysts have previously noted that any attack on a NATO member will be retaliated by the alliance as it is founded on the principle of collective defence, meaning that if one NATO ally is attacked, then all NATO allies are deemed to have been attacked.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Polish Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski said on Friday (August 4) that the authorities have detained another suspected member of a Russian spy network. The latest arrest has brought the total number of people detained as part of an investigation to 16.

Polish Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski said on Friday (August 4) that the authorities have detained another suspected member of a Russian spy network. The latest arrest has brought the total number of people detained as part of an investigation to 16. Kaminski wrote on messaging platform X, formerly known as Twitter, that the (Internal Security Agency) ABW detained another man, the 16th person, suspected of participating in a Russian spy network. "Belarusian Mikhail A. took part in reconnaissance of military facilities and ports. He also carried out propaganda activities for Russia. He was taken into custody," he added. A statement released by the press service of Poland's minister-coordinator of intelligence and security services said that the man came to Poland in 2021 after spending several years in Russia, including six years in jail. Also read: IAEA says no explosives and mines found on Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant roofs The statement said, "The evidence, in this case, suggests that he was regularly paid for the execution of tasks designed to undermine both internal and external security of Poland." It added, "The Belarusian individual pleaded partly guilty... He was charged with taking part in the activity of foreign intelligence targeted against Poland... Upon the court's decision, he has been remanded in custody for a period of three months." Poland claims that Russian spies are targeting a hub for Western military supplies to Ukraine, Warsaw also accuses Russia and Belarus of trying to destabilise it. Watch: Russia not invited to peace talks on Ukraine in Jeddah × Also read: Watch I Video shows Russian warship moving, towed after sea drone attack claimed by Ukraine Will the Ukraine war spill over to other regions? Russia's invasion of Ukraine started last year in February and left a significant impact on people and economies worldwide, but the latest developments pose the threat of the war spreading and engulfing some more nations. Poland is getting impacted due to the reported presence of Wagner mercenaries on its border. Warsaw recently decided to move military units to the country's east due to the Wagner Group's presence in Belarus. The Belarusian defence ministry recently said that the Wagner mercenaries had started to train Belarusian special forces at a military range just a few miles from the border with Poland, a NATO member. Analysts have previously noted that any attack on a NATO member will be retaliated by the alliance as it is founded on the principle of collective defence, meaning that if one NATO ally is attacked, then all NATO allies are deemed to have been attacked. (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.

Poland detains Belarusian man suspected of spying for Russia; arrests climb to 16

<p>International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said on Friday (August 4) that it has not found mines or explosives on the rooftops of reactors and turbine halls of Ukraine's Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The United Nations nuclear watchdog visited the site for inspection after claims made by Ukraine about the presence of mines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Ukrainian military, "external objects similar to explosive devices were placed on the outer roof of the third and fourth reactors" at the site.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But IAEA said that experts "have observed no mines or explosives on the rooftops of Unit 3 and Unit 4 reactor buildings and the turbine halls at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, after having been given access yesterday afternoon".&nbsp;</p>

<p>After repeatedly calling for unrestricted access to the plant, "the team had unimpeded access to the rooftops of the two reactor units and could also clearly view the rooftops of the turbine halls," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-i-video-shows-russian-warship-moving-towed-after-sea-drone-attack-claimed-by-ukraine-622401">Watch I Video shows Russian warship moving, towed after sea drone attack claimed by Ukraine</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The watchdog said that the agency experts saw anti-personnel mines located in a buffer zone between the site's internal and external perimeter barriers on July 23.</p>

<p>It added that after calls for unrestricted access to the plant, "the team had unimpeded access to the rooftops of the two reactor units and could also clearly view the rooftops of the turbine halls".&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also mentioned that it will pursue its requests to visit the roofs of the other four units at the plant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>IAEA head Rafael Mariano Grossi said that "timely, independent and objective reporting of facts on the ground is crucial to continue the IAEA's efforts to support nuclear safety and security during the military conflict in the country."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Russia not invited to peace talks on Ukraine in Jeddah&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-us-are-discussing-security-guarantees-official-622197">Ukraine, US begin discussions on security guarantees: Official</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant</strong></h2>

<p>The nuclear plant has remained a flash point ever since the war started last year on February 24 when Russia order a "special military operation" in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia captured Zaporizhzhia at the start of the war and an attack on March 4, renewing fears that the invasion could result in damage to one of Ukraine's 15 nuclear reactors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts have said that any emergency at the plant could trigger another catastrophe like the 1986 Chornobyl accident, the world's worst nuclear disaster. Experts claim that if the nuclear plant blows up, it will be 10 times larger than Chornobyl.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zaporizhzhia is a city in south-eastern Ukraine, situated on the banks of the Dnieper river. The strategically important city is known for its island of Khortytsia and Dnieper Hydroelectric Station.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said on Friday (August 4) that it has not found mines or explosives on the rooftops of reactors and turbine halls of Ukraine's Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said on Friday (August 4) that it has not found mines or explosives on the rooftops of reactors and turbine halls of Ukraine's Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. The United Nations nuclear watchdog visited the site for inspection after claims made by Ukraine about the presence of mines. According to the Ukrainian military, "external objects similar to explosive devices were placed on the outer roof of the third and fourth reactors" at the site. But IAEA said that experts "have observed no mines or explosives on the rooftops of Unit 3 and Unit 4 reactor buildings and the turbine halls at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, after having been given access yesterday afternoon". After repeatedly calling for unrestricted access to the plant, "the team had unimpeded access to the rooftops of the two reactor units and could also clearly view the rooftops of the turbine halls," it added. Also read: Watch I Video shows Russian warship moving, towed after sea drone attack claimed by Ukraine The watchdog said that the agency experts saw anti-personnel mines located in a buffer zone between the site's internal and external perimeter barriers on July 23. It added that after calls for unrestricted access to the plant, "the team had unimpeded access to the rooftops of the two reactor units and could also clearly view the rooftops of the turbine halls". It also mentioned that it will pursue its requests to visit the roofs of the other four units at the plant. IAEA head Rafael Mariano Grossi said that "timely, independent and objective reporting of facts on the ground is crucial to continue the IAEA's efforts to support nuclear safety and security during the military conflict in the country." Watch: Russia not invited to peace talks on Ukraine in Jeddah × Also read: Ukraine, US begin discussions on security guarantees: Official Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant The nuclear plant has remained a flash point ever since the war started last year on February 24 when Russia order a "special military operation" in Ukraine. Russia captured Zaporizhzhia at the start of the war and an attack on March 4, renewing fears that the invasion could result in damage to one of Ukraine's 15 nuclear reactors. Experts have said that any emergency at the plant could trigger another catastrophe like the 1986 Chornobyl accident, the world's worst nuclear disaster. Experts claim that if the nuclear plant blows up, it will be 10 times larger than Chornobyl. Zaporizhzhia is a city in south-eastern Ukraine, situated on the banks of the Dnieper river. The strategically important city is known for its island of Khortytsia and Dnieper Hydroelectric Station. (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.

IAEA says no explosives, mines found on roofs at Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant

<p>Russia on Friday (August 4) claimed that it thwarted a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-thwart-ukrainian-attacks-on-naval-base-in-black-sea-crimean-peninsula-622251">drone attack on its naval base</a> there with two sea drones, but a video shows a moment when a sea drone headed directly towards a Russian ship near the port of Novorossiysk. In that particular region, explosions have been heard overnight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The news agency Reuters reported citing two sources familiar with the matter that a Russian warship was seriously damaged in an overnight Ukrainian naval drone attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video has been shared by a source at Ukraine's security service. In the video, a drone can be seen moving across the Black Sea and approaching the Russian vessel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-us-are-discussing-security-guarantees-official-622197">Ukraine, US begin discussions on security guarantees: Official</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Ukrainian intelligence sources have told various news outlets that the Olenegorsky Gornyak, which is a "landing ship" was hit. The vessel was reportedly designed to carry equipment and personnel for beach landings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The source also said that there was a crew of around 100 Russian servicemen on the vessel when it was attacked by a sea drone carrying 450kg&nbsp;of TNT. Authorities have not provided any information about damage or casualties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But according to a source with knowledge of the port's operations, a large Russian naval vessel had to be towed ashore because it could not move under its own power after being damaged.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-may-deploy-marines-on-commercial-vessels-in-strait-of-hormuz-report-622259">US may deploy Marines on commercial vessels in Strait of Hormuz: Report</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Earlier in a statement, Russia's Defence Ministry said that the Ukrainian attack by two sea drones had been repelled in the waters outside the base. The ministry had also claimed that the drones had been destroyed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Caspian Pipeline Consortium, which operates an oil terminal there, said that Novorossiysk is the civilian port, which handles two per cent of the world's oil supply and also exports grain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It said that all ship movement was temporarily halted, but normal operations were resumed later.&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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Russia on Friday (August 4) claimed that it thwarted a drone attack on its naval base there with two sea drones, but a video shows a moment when a sea drone headed directly towards a Russian ship near the port of Novorossiysk.

Russia on Friday (August 4) claimed that it thwarted a drone attack on its naval base there with two sea drones, but a video shows a moment when a sea drone headed directly towards a Russian ship near the port of Novorossiysk. In that particular region, explosions have been heard overnight. The news agency Reuters reported citing two sources familiar with the matter that a Russian warship was seriously damaged in an overnight Ukrainian naval drone attack. The video has been shared by a source at Ukraine's security service. In the video, a drone can be seen moving across the Black Sea and approaching the Russian vessel. Also read: Ukraine, US begin discussions on security guarantees: Official The Ukrainian intelligence sources have told various news outlets that the Olenegorsky Gornyak, which is a "landing ship" was hit. The vessel was reportedly designed to carry equipment and personnel for beach landings. The source also said that there was a crew of around 100 Russian servicemen on the vessel when it was attacked by a sea drone carrying 450kg of TNT. Authorities have not provided any information about damage or casualties. But according to a source with knowledge of the port's operations, a large Russian naval vessel had to be towed ashore because it could not move under its own power after being damaged. Watch the video here: × Also read: US may deploy Marines on commercial vessels in Strait of Hormuz: Report Earlier in a statement, Russia's Defence Ministry said that the Ukrainian attack by two sea drones had been repelled in the waters outside the base. The ministry had also claimed that the drones had been destroyed. The Caspian Pipeline Consortium, which operates an oil terminal there, said that Novorossiysk is the civilian port, which handles two per cent of the world's oil supply and also exports grain. It said that all ship movement was temporarily halted, but normal operations were resumed later. 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.

Watch I Video shows Russian warship being towed after sea drone attack by Ukraine

<p class="MsoNormal">The Russian defence ministry early on Friday (August 4) said that overnight Ukrainian attacks on the naval base in the Crimean peninsula and the Black Sea were thwarted by their forces.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Tonight, the Armed Forces of Ukraine, with the use of two unmanned sea boats, attempted an attack on the Novorossiysk naval base of the Russian Armed Forces," said the ministry, on Telegram.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">It stated that the naval drones were destroyed by the Russian ships. The terminus of a pipeline, which has been carrying out a maximum of Kazakh oil exports through Russia, has been hosted by the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The operator of the fuel artery Caspian Pipeline Consortium said that it has continued the process of shipping oil to moored tankers at the terminal, reported the Russian state media on Friday.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">But "a temporary ban has been established on the movement of ships in the port", stated the company, as Interfax news agency quoted it.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-us-are-discussing-security-guarantees-official-622197">Ukraine, US begin discussions on security guarantees: Official</a></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><strong>Russia's Black Sea Fleet targetted multiple times</strong></h2>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">The Black Sea Fleet of Russia has been targetted from the time the military campaign of Russia began in Ukraine more than a year ago, however, there has been a significant increase in the attacks in recent weeks.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The defence ministry of Russia on Tuesday said that a Ukrainian drone attack, which was targeting patrol boats in the Black Sea, has been foiled. Black Sea is the region where tensions have been increasing after a deal to protect Ukrainian grain exports was exited by Moscow.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">A similar attack was repelled earlier this week also. On Friday, the ministry had claimed to have downed 13 drones over the Crimean peninsula. No casualties or damage were reported in either of the attacks, said the ministry.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Russia attacks main route for Ukranian exports since grain deal</strong></p>

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<h2 class="MsoNormal"><strong>Fight over Crimea</strong></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">In 2014, Russia had annexed Crimea. Since then, it has been a target of Kyiv throughout the Ukraine offensive on Moscow but has come under more increased and intense attacks in recent weeks. In July, Ukrainian drone attacks blew up an ammunition depot and damaged a strategic and symbolic bridge in Crimea, which linked the peninsula to Russia’s mainland.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Repeatedly, Kyiv has stated that it plans on taking back Crimea, which has become a regular target for its forces. Russian-installed authorities in Crimea on Sunday (July 30) said that 25 Ukrainian drones were downed over the peninsula.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Kyiv claims Moscow, meanwhile, has attacked Ukraine's Odesa region, which is on the shores of the Black Sea, repeatedly.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>


The Russian defence ministry early on Friday (August 4) said that overnight Ukrainian attacks on the naval base in the Crimean peninsula and the Black Sea were thwarted by their forces.

The Russian defence ministry early on Friday (August 4) said that overnight Ukrainian attacks on the naval base in the Crimean peninsula and the Black Sea were thwarted by their forces. "Tonight, the Armed Forces of Ukraine, with the use of two unmanned sea boats, attempted an attack on the Novorossiysk naval base of the Russian Armed Forces," said the ministry, on Telegram. It stated that the naval drones were destroyed by the Russian ships. The terminus of a pipeline, which has been carrying out a maximum of Kazakh oil exports through Russia, has been hosted by the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk. The operator of the fuel artery Caspian Pipeline Consortium said that it has continued the process of shipping oil to moored tankers at the terminal, reported the Russian state media on Friday. But "a temporary ban has been established on the movement of ships in the port", stated the company, as Interfax news agency quoted it. ALSO READ | Ukraine, US begin discussions on security guarantees: Official Russia's Black Sea Fleet targetted multiple times The Black Sea Fleet of Russia has been targetted from the time the military campaign of Russia began in Ukraine more than a year ago, however, there has been a significant increase in the attacks in recent weeks. The defence ministry of Russia on Tuesday said that a Ukrainian drone attack, which was targeting patrol boats in the Black Sea, has been foiled. Black Sea is the region where tensions have been increasing after a deal to protect Ukrainian grain exports was exited by Moscow. A similar attack was repelled earlier this week also. On Friday, the ministry had claimed to have downed 13 drones over the Crimean peninsula. No casualties or damage were reported in either of the attacks, said the ministry. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia attacks main route for Ukranian exports since grain deal Fight over Crimea In 2014, Russia had annexed Crimea. Since then, it has been a target of Kyiv throughout the Ukraine offensive on Moscow but has come under more increased and intense attacks in recent weeks. In July, Ukrainian drone attacks blew up an ammunition depot and damaged a strategic and symbolic bridge in Crimea, which linked the peninsula to Russia’s mainland. Repeatedly, Kyiv has stated that it plans on taking back Crimea, which has become a regular target for its forces. Russian-installed authorities in Crimea on Sunday (July 30) said that 25 Ukrainian drones were downed over the peninsula. Kyiv claims Moscow, meanwhile, has attacked Ukraine's Odesa region, which is on the shores of the Black Sea, repeatedly. (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 claims it thwarted Ukrainian attacks on naval base in Black Sea, Crimean peninsula

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin asked his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday (August 2) to help Moscow export its grain to African countries to evade crisis because of food shortage.&nbsp;During the call, Putin also reaffirmed that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;would return to the deal "as soon as the West actually fulfils all the obligations to&nbsp;Russia" contained within it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kremlin said in a statement that during a telephonic conversation between Putin and Erdogan, the "willingness for cooperation with Turkey and other interested states on this issue was expressed".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Food security has again become the main issue of global concern after Moscow's decision to scrap the deal brokered by United Nations and Turkey. The grain deal allowed Ukraine to export food through the Black Sea in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year on February 24.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-pounds-odesa-again-drone-debris-found-in-kyiv-621561">Russia pounds port, silos in Odesa again; drone debris found in Kyiv</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Ukraine is known as the "breadbasket" to many countries as it is one of the world's biggest suppliers of sunflower oil, barley, maize and wheat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the suspension of the grain deal caused severe effects on international food markets, with wheat prices rising sharply on both European and US wholesale markets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Erdogan has also urged Putin not to take steps that escalate tensions. The Turkish leader's office said that during the phone call, Erdogan emphasised the significance of a grain deal that he called a "bridge for peace".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-rushes-more-troops-to-east-after-accusing-belarus-of-intrusion-621589">Poland rushes more troops to east after accusing Belarus of intrusion</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Belarusian leader Lukashenko taunts Poland over presence of Wagner group</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>Strikes on Ukrainian ports&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The United States believes that Kremlin might be prepared to return to talks to resume the grain deal, but the situation is becoming worse&nbsp;with continuous strikes on key Ukrainian ports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Linda Thomas-Greenfield, who is the US envoy to the UN, claimed that if Russia's demands are met, it could return to the grain deal. "We have seen indications that they might be interested in returning to discussions. So, we will wait to see whether that actually happens," said the ambassador.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the ground reality appears to be different as Russia has already said that it will only return to the deal if Moscow's conditions are met, and has been launching strikes on Ukrainian ports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine's defence ministry said that Russia on Wednesday attacked the main inland port across the Danube River from Romania. The strikes are further sending global food prices higher.&nbsp;Ukraine's defence ministry said a grain silo was damaged in the Danube port of Izmail in the Odesa region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Ukrainian grain has the potential to feed millions of people worldwide," the ministry wrote on messaging platform X.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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Russian President Vladimir Putin asked his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday (August 2) to help Moscow export its grain to African countries to evade crisis because of food shortage.

Russian President Vladimir Putin asked his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday (August 2) to help Moscow export its grain to African countries to evade crisis because of food shortage. During the call, Putin also reaffirmed that Russia would return to the deal "as soon as the West actually fulfils all the obligations to Russia" contained within it. Kremlin said in a statement that during a telephonic conversation between Putin and Erdogan, the "willingness for cooperation with Turkey and other interested states on this issue was expressed". Food security has again become the main issue of global concern after Moscow's decision to scrap the deal brokered by United Nations and Turkey. The grain deal allowed Ukraine to export food through the Black Sea in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year on February 24. Also read: Russia pounds port, silos in Odesa again; drone debris found in Kyiv Ukraine is known as the "breadbasket" to many countries as it is one of the world's biggest suppliers of sunflower oil, barley, maize and wheat. However, the suspension of the grain deal caused severe effects on international food markets, with wheat prices rising sharply on both European and US wholesale markets. Meanwhile, Erdogan has also urged Putin not to take steps that escalate tensions. The Turkish leader's office said that during the phone call, Erdogan emphasised the significance of a grain deal that he called a "bridge for peace". Also read: Poland rushes more troops to east after accusing Belarus of intrusion Watch: Belarusian leader Lukashenko taunts Poland over presence of Wagner group × Strikes on Ukrainian ports The United States believes that Kremlin might be prepared to return to talks to resume the grain deal, but the situation is becoming worse with continuous strikes on key Ukrainian ports. Linda Thomas-Greenfield, who is the US envoy to the UN, claimed that if Russia's demands are met, it could return to the grain deal. "We have seen indications that they might be interested in returning to discussions. So, we will wait to see whether that actually happens," said the ambassador. But the ground reality appears to be different as Russia has already said that it will only return to the deal if Moscow's conditions are met, and has been launching strikes on Ukrainian ports. Ukraine's defence ministry said that Russia on Wednesday attacked the main inland port across the Danube River from Romania. The strikes are further sending global food prices higher. Ukraine's defence ministry said a grain silo was damaged in the Danube port of Izmail in the Odesa region. "Ukrainian grain has the potential to feed millions of people worldwide," the ministry wrote on messaging platform X. (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 reaffirms stance on grain deal, continues strikes on key Ukrainian ports

<p>Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that after talks with his Croatian counterpart on Monday (July 31), Kyiv and Zagreb have agreed on the use of Croatian ports to export Ukrainian grain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both nations have agreed on the possibility of using Croatian ports on the Danube and the Adriatic Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes days after Russia suspended its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal, and said it will only return to the deal if Moscow's conditions are met.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The move deprived Ukraine of a channel to safely export its agricultural products during the ongoing war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After meeting Grlic Radman in Kyiv, Kuleba said: "Now we will work to establish the most efficient routes to these ports and make the most of this opportunity."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Every contribution to unblocking export, every door opened is a real, effective contribution to the world's food security. I am grateful to Croatia for its constructive assistance," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-intensifies-attacks-on-ukraine-strike-kills-four-in-kryvyi-rih-621035">Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine, fresh strike kills six in Kryvyi Rih</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Currently, Ukraine is dependent upon land export routes via the European Union. There's an alternative route also which is via the Danube River. Earlier this month, Russia attacked infrastructure along the latter route.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Kuleba has said the main subject of his talks with his Croatian counterpart was weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I will only say that there are specific agreements that will be implemented soon," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia proposes a strange offer to BRICS nations, makes a special room for China and India&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-station-struck-in-overnight-strikes-as-ukraine-continues-drone-attacks-on-russia-620958">Police station struck in overnight strikes as Ukraine continues drone attacks on Russia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Egypt calls for renewal of Black Sea grain export deal</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Last week on Friday, Egypt's president urged Russia and Ukraine to find "urgent solutions" to allow the resumption of Ukraine grain exports to Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At a Russia-Africa summit in the Russian city of Saint Petersburg, Abdel Fattah al-Sissi said: "I underline the importance of finding urgent solutions to furnish food and fertiliser at prices that will help Africa to surmount this crisis."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I hope to come to a consensual solution on a grain export agreement, taking into account the requests and interests of all the parties, in order put an end to the rise in price," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The deal was brokered by the UN and Turkey, allowing Ukrainian grain exports to pass through the Black Sea and reach global markets, to ease pressure on food prices.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the summit in Russia, President Vladimir Putin said that he will offer free grain to six countries on the continent.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that after talks with his Croatian counterpart on Monday (July 31), Kyiv and Zagreb have agreed on the use of Croatian ports to export Ukrainian grain.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that after talks with his Croatian counterpart on Monday (July 31), Kyiv and Zagreb have agreed on the use of Croatian ports to export Ukrainian grain. Both nations have agreed on the possibility of using Croatian ports on the Danube and the Adriatic Sea. This comes days after Russia suspended its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal, and said it will only return to the deal if Moscow's conditions are met. The move deprived Ukraine of a channel to safely export its agricultural products during the ongoing war. After meeting Grlic Radman in Kyiv, Kuleba said: "Now we will work to establish the most efficient routes to these ports and make the most of this opportunity." "Every contribution to unblocking export, every door opened is a real, effective contribution to the world's food security. I am grateful to Croatia for its constructive assistance," he said. Also read: Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine, fresh strike kills six in Kryvyi Rih Currently, Ukraine is dependent upon land export routes via the European Union. There's an alternative route also which is via the Danube River. Earlier this month, Russia attacked infrastructure along the latter route. Meanwhile, Kuleba has said the main subject of his talks with his Croatian counterpart was weapons. "I will only say that there are specific agreements that will be implemented soon," he said. Watch: Russia proposes a strange offer to BRICS nations, makes a special room for China and India × Also read: Police station struck in overnight strikes as Ukraine continues drone attacks on Russia Egypt calls for renewal of Black Sea grain export deal Last week on Friday, Egypt's president urged Russia and Ukraine to find "urgent solutions" to allow the resumption of Ukraine grain exports to Africa. At a Russia-Africa summit in the Russian city of Saint Petersburg, Abdel Fattah al-Sissi said: "I underline the importance of finding urgent solutions to furnish food and fertiliser at prices that will help Africa to surmount this crisis." "I hope to come to a consensual solution on a grain export agreement, taking into account the requests and interests of all the parties, in order put an end to the rise in price," he said. The deal was brokered by the UN and Turkey, allowing Ukrainian grain exports to pass through the Black Sea and reach global markets, to ease pressure on food prices. At the summit in Russia, President Vladimir Putin said that he will offer free grain to six countries on the continent. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine and Croatia agree on use of Croatian ports for grain exports

<p>Yevgeny Prigozhin, who is the head of The Wagner Group, said that it will continue its activities in Africa and Belarus. He added that the group is not currently recruiting new fighters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an audio message published by a Wagner-linked Telegram account on Monday (July 31), Prigozhin said that the group was deciding on its next objectives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ever since its failed coup attempt in late June against the Russian defence establishment, the future of Wagner and Prigozhin has remained a matter of speculation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kremlin had earlier said he and some of Wagner's mercenaries would leave for Belarus.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Prigozhin attended a meeting with Vladimir Putin last week in St Petersburg&nbsp;when the Russian president was hosting African leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-intensifies-attacks-on-ukraine-strike-kills-four-in-kryvyi-rih-621035">Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine, fresh strike kills four in Kryvyi Rih</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The news agency Reuters reported that a voice sounding like Prigozhin's said in the message: "Today we are defining our next tasks, whose outline is becoming clearer and clearer. Undoubtedly, these are tasks that will be carried out in the name of the greatness of Russia."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The audio was published on Grey Zone, a Telegram channel affiliated with Wagner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the audio message, Prigozhin said that most Wagner fighters were currently on leave, because "before that there was a long period of very hard work".&nbsp;He added that they have fought in some of the fiercest battles of the Ukraine war.</p>

<p>After the failed coup, the Kremlin said Wagner fighters who had not taken part would transfer to the regular army, signing contracts with the Defence Ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-station-struck-in-overnight-strikes-as-ukraine-continues-drone-attacks-on-russia-620958">Police station struck in overnight strikes as Ukraine continues drone attacks on Russia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;What is US' plan to help Australia develop guided missiles by 2025&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>'No plans to carry out a new recruitment'</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Wagner chief said that "unfortunately" some of his fighters had moved to other "power structures", but he said they were looking to return.</p>

<p>"As long as we don't experience a shortage in personnel, we don't plan to carry out a new recruitment," Prigozhin said.</p>

<p>"However, we will be extremely grateful to you if you keep in touch with us, and as soon as the Motherland needs to create a new group that will be able to protect the interests of our country, we will certainly start recruiting," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, Prigozhin also said Wagner was ready to further increase its presence in Africa. Since the mutiny, some Wagner fighters have moved to Belarus and started training its army.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Africa, Wagner's role is apparently a source of concern for Western governments as the United States has accused it of committing widespread atrocities and imposed sanctions on it as a criminal organisation, which they deny. Prigozhin even claimed that it works in line with the laws of the countries where it operates.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Yevgeny Prigozhin, who is the head of The Wagner Group, said that it will continue its activities in Africa and Belarus. He added that the group is not currently recruiting new fighters.

Yevgeny Prigozhin, who is the head of The Wagner Group, said that it will continue its activities in Africa and Belarus. He added that the group is not currently recruiting new fighters. In an audio message published by a Wagner-linked Telegram account on Monday (July 31), Prigozhin said that the group was deciding on its next objectives. Ever since its failed coup attempt in late June against the Russian defence establishment, the future of Wagner and Prigozhin has remained a matter of speculation. The Kremlin had earlier said he and some of Wagner's mercenaries would leave for Belarus. Meanwhile, Prigozhin attended a meeting with Vladimir Putin last week in St Petersburg when the Russian president was hosting African leaders. Also read: Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine, fresh strike kills four in Kryvyi Rih The news agency Reuters reported that a voice sounding like Prigozhin's said in the message: "Today we are defining our next tasks, whose outline is becoming clearer and clearer. Undoubtedly, these are tasks that will be carried out in the name of the greatness of Russia." The audio was published on Grey Zone, a Telegram channel affiliated with Wagner. In the audio message, Prigozhin said that most Wagner fighters were currently on leave, because "before that there was a long period of very hard work". He added that they have fought in some of the fiercest battles of the Ukraine war. After the failed coup, the Kremlin said Wagner fighters who had not taken part would transfer to the regular army, signing contracts with the Defence Ministry. Also read: Police station struck in overnight strikes as Ukraine continues drone attacks on Russia Watch: What is US' plan to help Australia develop guided missiles by 2025 × 'No plans to carry out a new recruitment' The Wagner chief said that "unfortunately" some of his fighters had moved to other "power structures", but he said they were looking to return. "As long as we don't experience a shortage in personnel, we don't plan to carry out a new recruitment," Prigozhin said. "However, we will be extremely grateful to you if you keep in touch with us, and as soon as the Motherland needs to create a new group that will be able to protect the interests of our country, we will certainly start recruiting," he added. Last week, Prigozhin also said Wagner was ready to further increase its presence in Africa. Since the mutiny, some Wagner fighters have moved to Belarus and started training its army. In Africa, Wagner's role is apparently a source of concern for Western governments as the United States has accused it of committing widespread atrocities and imposed sanctions on it as a criminal organisation, which they deny. Prigozhin even claimed that it works in line with the laws of the countries where it operates. (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: Wagner chief says group is not recruiting now, but may do so in future

<p>At least five, including a 10-year-old child,&nbsp;have been killed after missile strikes on the central Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih, the country's emergency services said Monday (July 31).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a video posted by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, smoke was seen billowing from a multi-storey building. According to reports, a&nbsp;four-storey building had been almost levelled.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Initially,&nbsp;reports suggested&nbsp;two casualties, with interior minister Ihor Klymenko saying on television that several people were under the rubble.&nbsp;The minister also said that the general prosecutor's office said 25 people had been wounded, including children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, the emergency services updated the death toll. The number of those who were wounded is more than 40.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-station-struck-in-overnight-strikes-as-ukraine-continues-drone-attacks-on-russia-620958">Police station struck in overnight strikes as Ukraine continues drone attacks on Russia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Two missiles landed close to the centre of Kryvyi Rig just after 9:00 am (0600 GMT), Klymenko wrote on Telegram.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Mayor Oleksandr Vilkul said the deceased included a 10-year-old girl and her 45-year-old mother.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Oleksiy Kuleba, who is the deputy head of Zelensky's office, said: "Every day, Ukrainian cities are under fire from Russian terrorists. Sumy, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipro, Kharkiv. This is only for the last few days."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kuleba said targeting civilians was a sign of "the despair and defeat of the Russian Federation at the front".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Monday morning. Regions of Ukraine are being shelled by the occupiers, who continue to terrorize peaceful cities and people. Kryvyi Rih, Kherson. Residential buildings, a university building, a crossroads were hit. Unfortunately, there are dead and wounded. There may be people… <a href="https://t.co/goMVBbCN1B">pic.twitter.com/goMVBbCN1B</a></p>
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1685919969916112900?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Shelling in Kherson&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Andrii Yermak, the head of the Ukrainian President's Office, posted on Telegram on Monday that Russian shelling on the city of Kherson has killed at least four people and injured more than 15.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yermak wrote: "The enemy is hitting residential areas. The Korabelny district and the central part of the city suffered the most. There are 4 dead and 17 wounded as of now."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Oleksandr Prokudin, who is the head of the Kherson region military administration, wrote in a telegram post on Monday: "Such intensity of shelling is due to the rotation of enemy troops on the left bank [of the Dnipro river]. Russia has replenished its forces that our Armed Forces had previously destroyed."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nuclear-war-if-putins-top-aide-issues-ultimate-threat-620874">‘Nuclear war if...': Putin's top aide issues ultimate threat</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Monday that Moscow has intensified strikes on Ukrainian military infrastructure in response to attacks on Russian-controlled territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shoigu said, "Against the background of the failure of the so-called 'counteroffensive', Kyiv... has focused on carrying out terrorist attacks on civilian infrastructure. The intensity of our strikes against Ukrainian military facilities... has been considerably increased."</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.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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At least five, including a 10-year-old child, have been killed after missile strikes on the central Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih, the country's emergency services said Monday (July 31).

At least five, including a 10-year-old child, have been killed after missile strikes on the central Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih, the country's emergency services said Monday (July 31). In a video posted by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, smoke was seen billowing from a multi-storey building. According to reports, a four-storey building had been almost levelled. Initially, reports suggested two casualties, with interior minister Ihor Klymenko saying on television that several people were under the rubble. The minister also said that the general prosecutor's office said 25 people had been wounded, including children. Later, the emergency services updated the death toll. The number of those who were wounded is more than 40. Also read: Police station struck in overnight strikes as Ukraine continues drone attacks on Russia Two missiles landed close to the centre of Kryvyi Rig just after 9:00 am (0600 GMT), Klymenko wrote on Telegram. Meanwhile, Mayor Oleksandr Vilkul said the deceased included a 10-year-old girl and her 45-year-old mother. Oleksiy Kuleba, who is the deputy head of Zelensky's office, said: "Every day, Ukrainian cities are under fire from Russian terrorists. Sumy, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipro, Kharkiv. This is only for the last few days." Kuleba said targeting civilians was a sign of "the despair and defeat of the Russian Federation at the front". Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Monday morning. Regions of Ukraine are being shelled by the occupiers, who continue to terrorize peaceful cities and people. Kryvyi Rih, Kherson. Residential buildings, a university building, a crossroads were hit. Unfortunately, there are dead and wounded. There may be people… pic.twitter.com/goMVBbCN1B — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) July 31, 2023 × Shelling in Kherson Andrii Yermak, the head of the Ukrainian President's Office, posted on Telegram on Monday that Russian shelling on the city of Kherson has killed at least four people and injured more than 15. Yermak wrote: "The enemy is hitting residential areas. The Korabelny district and the central part of the city suffered the most. There are 4 dead and 17 wounded as of now." Oleksandr Prokudin, who is the head of the Kherson region military administration, wrote in a telegram post on Monday: "Such intensity of shelling is due to the rotation of enemy troops on the left bank [of the Dnipro river]. Russia has replenished its forces that our Armed Forces had previously destroyed." Also read: ‘Nuclear war if...': Putin's top aide issues ultimate threat Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine Meanwhile, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Monday that Moscow has intensified strikes on Ukrainian military infrastructure in response to attacks on Russian-controlled territory. Shoigu said, "Against the background of the failure of the so-called 'counteroffensive', Kyiv... has focused on carrying out terrorist attacks on civilian infrastructure. The intensity of our strikes against Ukrainian military facilities... has been considerably increased." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION 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 intensifies attacks on Ukraine, fresh strike kills six in Kryvyi Rih

<p>An apartment block was hit by a Russian missile in the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Friday (July 29) in which nine people, including two children, were injured, said Kyiv officials.<br />
<br />
"Dnipro. Another terrorist attack," stated Sergiy Kruk, head of the Ukrainian State Emergency Service, on Telegram. "Currently, we know of 9 injured, including two children. Work continues,” he added. Earlier, Internal Affairs Minister Igor Klymenko reported "a Russian strike on a multistorey building in Dnipro", stating five people suffered injuries.<br />
<br />
Regional governor Serhiy Lysak, taking to the Telegram messaging app, said that the injured were being treated at home. Dnipro Mayor Borys Filatov said that this was the third time the SBU security service building was targeted by Russia. The two buildings were empty - the residential building had no one inside it because it just got completed and units were being put up for sale.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-forces-advance-southward-claim-they-have-recaptured-strategic-village-from-russians-620093">Ukrainian forces advance southward, claim they have recaptured strategic village from Russians</a></p>

<p>"There were two hits in Dnipro at about 8.30 p.m. (1730 GMT), Iskander missiles, according to preliminary information," said Lysak, while speaking on national television. "Part of the apartment building was destroyed. It was not even yet in use and there weren't many people there. A few people were trapped but are now out. The security service building is partially destroyed,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Russian missile terror again'</strong></h2>

<p>In the videos shared on social media, smoke was seen billowing from the residential building's top floors, which were&nbsp;badly damaged. President Volodymyr Zelensky said, "Dnipro. Friday evening. A high-rise building and the Security Service of Ukraine's building were hit. Russian missile terror again".<br />
<br />
"All necessary services are on site... We keep the situation under control. We will do everything to bring Russia to full punishment for aggression and terror against our people,” he added.<br />
<br />
On Friday, Russia said that two Ukrainian missiles were intercepted over its southern Rostov region, which was bordering Ukraine. It stated that the falling debris had wounded at least a dozen people in the city of Taganrog.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia is preparing to unleash an ‘avalanche’ of FPV Kamikaze drones on Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>Russian regions, which are located on the border with Ukraine, witness regular drone strikes and shelling since the military campaign was launched by Moscow in February last year but they have rarely been targeted by missiles.</p>

<h2><strong>Kyiv using North Korean rockets to attack Russian forces</strong></h2>

<p>According to a report published by the Financial Times on Saturday (July 29), Ukrainian soldiers have been observed using North Korean rockets which they claim were seized by a "friendly" country and then delivered to Ukraine.<br />
<br />
The defence ministry of Ukraine suggested that the arms were seized from the Russians, said the newspaper. North Korea has been accused by the United States of providing arms to Russia, which includes alleged shipments by sea, but no proof has so far emerged and no weapons of North Korea have been widely observed on the battlefields in Ukraine.<br />
<br />
<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><br />
<br />
(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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An apartment block was hit by a Russian missile in the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Friday (July 29) in which nine people, including two children, were injured, said Kyiv officials.

An apartment block was hit by a Russian missile in the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Friday (July 29) in which nine people, including two children, were injured, said Kyiv officials. "Dnipro. Another terrorist attack," stated Sergiy Kruk, head of the Ukrainian State Emergency Service, on Telegram. "Currently, we know of 9 injured, including two children. Work continues,” he added. Earlier, Internal Affairs Minister Igor Klymenko reported "a Russian strike on a multistorey building in Dnipro", stating five people suffered injuries. Regional governor Serhiy Lysak, taking to the Telegram messaging app, said that the injured were being treated at home. Dnipro Mayor Borys Filatov said that this was the third time the SBU security service building was targeted by Russia. The two buildings were empty - the residential building had no one inside it because it just got completed and units were being put up for sale. ALSO READ | Ukrainian forces advance southward, claim they have recaptured strategic village from Russians "There were two hits in Dnipro at about 8.30 p.m. (1730 GMT), Iskander missiles, according to preliminary information," said Lysak, while speaking on national television. "Part of the apartment building was destroyed. It was not even yet in use and there weren't many people there. A few people were trapped but are now out. The security service building is partially destroyed,” he added. 'Russian missile terror again' In the videos shared on social media, smoke was seen billowing from the residential building's top floors, which were badly damaged. President Volodymyr Zelensky said, "Dnipro. Friday evening. A high-rise building and the Security Service of Ukraine's building were hit. Russian missile terror again". "All necessary services are on site... We keep the situation under control. We will do everything to bring Russia to full punishment for aggression and terror against our people,” he added. On Friday, Russia said that two Ukrainian missiles were intercepted over its southern Rostov region, which was bordering Ukraine. It stated that the falling debris had wounded at least a dozen people in the city of Taganrog. WATCH | Russia is preparing to unleash an ‘avalanche’ of FPV Kamikaze drones on Ukraine Russian regions, which are located on the border with Ukraine, witness regular drone strikes and shelling since the military campaign was launched by Moscow in February last year but they have rarely been targeted by missiles. Kyiv using North Korean rockets to attack Russian forces According to a report published by the Financial Times on Saturday (July 29), Ukrainian soldiers have been observed using North Korean rockets which they claim were seized by a "friendly" country and then delivered to Ukraine. The defence ministry of Ukraine suggested that the arms were seized from the Russians, said the newspaper. North Korea has been accused by the United States of providing arms to Russia, which includes alleged shipments by sea, but no proof has so far emerged and no weapons of North Korea have been widely observed on the battlefields in Ukraine. 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 strikes Dnipro amid reports of Ukraine using North Korean rockets

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (July 28) said Moscow is "carefully" examining proposals made by some African leaders to end the conflict in Ukraine amid reports of an intensive counteroffensive by Kyiv. On the second day of the&nbsp;Russia-Africa summit in Saint Petersburg, Putin said: "We respect your initiatives and we are examining them carefully."</p>

<p>"Previous mediation initiatives were monopolised by so-called advanced democracies. Now, Africa too is ready to help resolve problems that appear to be outside of its area of priorities," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The African continent is indeed becoming a new centre of power. Its political and economic role is growing exponentially. Everyone will have to take this reality into account. For example, let's look at the initiative by a number of African states on solving the Ukraine crisis, which is an acute problem, we are not shying away from reviewing it," Putin added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before Russia, an African group travelled to Ukraine and offered crisis mediation. They called for military de-escalation, security assurances for both parties and mutual acknowledgement of sovereignty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The offer to mediate was rejected by Ukraine, saying it would freeze the conflict without ensuring that Russian troops leave Ukrainian soil. The Kremlin had also said earlier that the African proposals would be "very difficult to implement".</p>

<h2><strong>Russia's grain offer to African nations</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Russia recently pulled out of an agreement that would have allowed Ukrainian grain exports over the Black Sea, causing worry among African nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Putin stated at a Russia-Africa meeting that Russia was increasing food supplies to Africa, including free grain shipments announced the day before. The Russian president said that he was interested in developing military relations with the continent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin also said Russia was prepared to supply some weapons to Africa for free to enhance security on the continent, and to work more closely with African law enforcement and intelligence services.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (July 28) said Moscow is "carefully" examining proposals made by some African leaders to end the conflict in Ukraine amid reports of an intensive counteroffensive by Kyiv.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (July 28) said Moscow is "carefully" examining proposals made by some African leaders to end the conflict in Ukraine amid reports of an intensive counteroffensive by Kyiv. On the second day of the Russia-Africa summit in Saint Petersburg, Putin said: "We respect your initiatives and we are examining them carefully." "Previous mediation initiatives were monopolised by so-called advanced democracies. Now, Africa too is ready to help resolve problems that appear to be outside of its area of priorities," he said. "The African continent is indeed becoming a new centre of power. Its political and economic role is growing exponentially. Everyone will have to take this reality into account. For example, let's look at the initiative by a number of African states on solving the Ukraine crisis, which is an acute problem, we are not shying away from reviewing it," Putin added. Before Russia, an African group travelled to Ukraine and offered crisis mediation. They called for military de-escalation, security assurances for both parties and mutual acknowledgement of sovereignty. The offer to mediate was rejected by Ukraine, saying it would freeze the conflict without ensuring that Russian troops leave Ukrainian soil. The Kremlin had also said earlier that the African proposals would be "very difficult to implement". Russia's grain offer to African nations Russia recently pulled out of an agreement that would have allowed Ukrainian grain exports over the Black Sea, causing worry among African nations. But Putin stated at a Russia-Africa meeting that Russia was increasing food supplies to Africa, including free grain shipments announced the day before. The Russian president said that he was interested in developing military relations with the continent. Putin also said Russia was prepared to supply some weapons to Africa for free to enhance security on the continent, and to work more closely with African law enforcement and intelligence services. (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 Russia 'carefully' examining African proposals to end Ukraine conflict

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (July 26) claimed that Ukraine had intensified attacks on the frontline in the last few days. Reuters reported that a Ukrainian official said the country's forces are making slow but steady progress in the battlefield.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday, three different media outlets cited unnamed US officials as saying Kyiv had launched a new phase of its ambitious counteroffensive which seeks to eject Russian troops from nearly 20% of Ukrainian land still under occupation.</p>

<p>Asked about these reports, Yuriy Sak, an adviser to Ukraine's defence minister, told Reuters that "there is nothing new" happening at front lines. "In the south, we are moving forward slowly but surely," he said.</p>

<p>As he interacted with Russian television, Putin claimed that every Ukrainian attack had been beaten back. He also said that Russian forces had inflicted significant losses on their opponents.</p>

<p>Defence ministries of both countries appeared to offer contradicting reports of fighting.</p>

<p>Russian defence ministry said that Russian forces had repelled Ukrainian attacks around the village of Klishchiivka, as per reports by Russian news agency TASS. The village is near Bakhmut.</p>

<p>However, Hannah Maliar, Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister wrote on Telegram that Ukraine's troops were "gradually moving forward" near Bakhmut. She claimed that the fight was ongoing near Klischiivka, Kudriumivka and Andriivka.</p>

<p>She claimed that Ukrainian forces beat back Russian attacks near Kupiansk and Lyman.</p>

<h2><strong>The counteroffensive</strong></h2>

<p>Till now, Ukraine's counteroffensive has moved slowly. Ukraine has only been able to recapture few hundred square kilometres. It is just a tiny fraction of the territory which is still under Russian control.</p>

<p>However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed "very good results" on the battlefield in an address on Tuesday evening, promising to give details later.</p>

<p>Ukraine has enjoyed success in a few areas. One of these is the Mokri Yaly river in southeastern Ukraine. In this area, the Ukrainian troops have captured several settlements. The forces are now heading towards the village of Staromaiorske. The village is currently held by Russia.</p>

<p>Aleksandr Khodakovsky, an influential Moscow-backed separatist commander in eastern Ukraine, posted an angry message on his Telegram channel on Wednesday complaining about heavy shelling of Staromaiorske over several days followed by a Ukrainian assault which had made some gains.</p>

<p>Sak said there was fighting ongoing near Staromaiorske but the village was "not yet" under Ukrainian control.<br />
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<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>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (July 26) claimed that Ukraine had intensified attacks on the frontline in the last few days. Reuters reported that a Ukrainian official said the country's forces are making slow but steady progress in the battlefield.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (July 26) claimed that Ukraine had intensified attacks on the frontline in the last few days. Reuters reported that a Ukrainian official said the country's forces are making slow but steady progress in the battlefield. On Wednesday, three different media outlets cited unnamed US officials as saying Kyiv had launched a new phase of its ambitious counteroffensive which seeks to eject Russian troops from nearly 20% of Ukrainian land still under occupation. Asked about these reports, Yuriy Sak, an adviser to Ukraine's defence minister, told Reuters that "there is nothing new" happening at front lines. "In the south, we are moving forward slowly but surely," he said. As he interacted with Russian television, Putin claimed that every Ukrainian attack had been beaten back. He also said that Russian forces had inflicted significant losses on their opponents. Defence ministries of both countries appeared to offer contradicting reports of fighting. Russian defence ministry said that Russian forces had repelled Ukrainian attacks around the village of Klishchiivka, as per reports by Russian news agency TASS. The village is near Bakhmut. However, Hannah Maliar, Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister wrote on Telegram that Ukraine's troops were "gradually moving forward" near Bakhmut. She claimed that the fight was ongoing near Klischiivka, Kudriumivka and Andriivka. She claimed that Ukrainian forces beat back Russian attacks near Kupiansk and Lyman. The counteroffensive Till now, Ukraine's counteroffensive has moved slowly. Ukraine has only been able to recapture few hundred square kilometres. It is just a tiny fraction of the territory which is still under Russian control. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed "very good results" on the battlefield in an address on Tuesday evening, promising to give details later. Ukraine has enjoyed success in a few areas. One of these is the Mokri Yaly river in southeastern Ukraine. In this area, the Ukrainian troops have captured several settlements. The forces are now heading towards the village of Staromaiorske. The village is currently held by Russia. Aleksandr Khodakovsky, an influential Moscow-backed separatist commander in eastern Ukraine, posted an angry message on his Telegram channel on Wednesday complaining about heavy shelling of Staromaiorske over several days followed by a Ukrainian assault which had made some gains. Sak said there was fighting ongoing near Staromaiorske but the village was "not yet" under Ukrainian control. 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 ×

Ukraine intensifying attacks on frontline, Russian forces inflicted heavy losses, claims Putin

<p>Ukraine has apparently launched a major offensive as the Russian army said on Wednesday (July 26) that it had repelled a Ukrainian attack involving several hundred soldiers near the town of Orikhiv in the south. The region mentioned by Russia is one of the areas where a counteroffensive is being carried out by Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the past few weeks, Ukraine claimed that its counter-offensive is underway and also that the nation was making advances on all fronts despite consistent Russian attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The highly anticipated counteroffensive began after Ukraine stockpiled Western weapons and built&nbsp;up its offensive forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia's defence ministry said in a statement that "on the morning of July 26, the enemy resumed intensive offensive operations" near Orikhiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-is-boosting-black-sea-surveillance-after-russian-grain-deal-exit-619707">NATO is boosting Black Sea surveillance after Russia's grain deal exit</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>It added that Ukraine "conducted a massive attack by the forces of three battalions reinforced by tanks".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry further said that "all attacks of the Armed Force of Ukraine were repelled. Positions were held".&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by CNN mentioned, citing two US officials, that Ukraine has committed more forces to its counteroffensive in the southeast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The news of this development comes after nearly two months of slow progress and the report mentioned that this indicates that Ukraine has identified potential weaknesses in Russian defensive lines.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hailing-historic-cooperation-russian-defence-minister-shoigu-says-north-korea-an-important-partner-619608">North Korea an 'important partner', says Russian Defence Minister Shoigu hailing historic cooperation</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted by the outlet, one official said that the Ukrainian military still has additional combat power in reserve and the "bulk" of the forces have been committed to the counter-offensive.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The New York Times reported that unnamed Pentagon officials believe that the "main thrust" of the counteroffensive had now begun. The official noted that the Ukrainian army poured thousands of Western-trained and equipped reinforcements into a perceived weak spot in Russian defences in the Zaporizhzhia region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Russia's Defence Min Sergei Shoigu meets North Korea's Kim Jong-un, hands Kim a letter from Putin&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Russia claims new gains&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, the Russian military claimed that it progressed in the direction of Lyman after reporting an advance of up to two kilometres on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry said the fighting was taking place near the village of Sergiivka, which Moscow claimed to have taken control of.&nbsp;</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.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukraine has apparently launched a major offensive as the Russian army said on Wednesday (July 26) that it had repelled a Ukrainian attack involving several hundred soldiers near the town of Orikhiv in the south.

Ukraine has apparently launched a major offensive as the Russian army said on Wednesday (July 26) that it had repelled a Ukrainian attack involving several hundred soldiers near the town of Orikhiv in the south. The region mentioned by Russia is one of the areas where a counteroffensive is being carried out by Kyiv. In the past few weeks, Ukraine claimed that its counter-offensive is underway and also that the nation was making advances on all fronts despite consistent Russian attacks. The highly anticipated counteroffensive began after Ukraine stockpiled Western weapons and built up its offensive forces. Russia's defence ministry said in a statement that "on the morning of July 26, the enemy resumed intensive offensive operations" near Orikhiv. Also read: NATO is boosting Black Sea surveillance after Russia's grain deal exit It added that Ukraine "conducted a massive attack by the forces of three battalions reinforced by tanks". The ministry further said that "all attacks of the Armed Force of Ukraine were repelled. Positions were held". A report by CNN mentioned, citing two US officials, that Ukraine has committed more forces to its counteroffensive in the southeast. The news of this development comes after nearly two months of slow progress and the report mentioned that this indicates that Ukraine has identified potential weaknesses in Russian defensive lines. Also read: North Korea an 'important partner', says Russian Defence Minister Shoigu hailing historic cooperation As quoted by the outlet, one official said that the Ukrainian military still has additional combat power in reserve and the "bulk" of the forces have been committed to the counter-offensive. The New York Times reported that unnamed Pentagon officials believe that the "main thrust" of the counteroffensive had now begun. The official noted that the Ukrainian army poured thousands of Western-trained and equipped reinforcements into a perceived weak spot in Russian defences in the Zaporizhzhia region. Watch: Russia's Defence Min Sergei Shoigu meets North Korea's Kim Jong-un, hands Kim a letter from Putin × Russia claims new gains In Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, the Russian military claimed that it progressed in the direction of Lyman after reporting an advance of up to two kilometres on Tuesday. The ministry said the fighting was taking place near the village of Sergiivka, which Moscow claimed to have taken control of. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION 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 repels major attack near Zaporizhzhia as Ukraine resumes 'intensive offensive'

Is Belarus joining the Russia-Ukraine War? Belarus has decided to 'arm' & 'train' its ministry of emergency situations. This comes after a video showed Wagner mercenaries training Belarusian troops near the Polish border. Priyanka Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Is Belarus joining the Russia-Ukraine war?

<p>Russia on Tuesday (July 25) pounded the Ukrainian capital with a sixth air attack this month, the military administration of Kyiv said. Serhiy Popko, the head of Kyiv's military, said on Telegram messaging app that Russia attacked Kyiv with Iranian-made Shahed drones. All the drones were downed by Ukraine's air defence systems, he claimed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Popko said that there were no casualties or serious damage, though information was still being collected.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also mentioned that the air alert lasted for around three hours and all air targets were detected and destroyed when they approach Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid Russia's warning of retaliation after a Ukrainian drone strike in Moscow, the Kyiv regional military administration had earlier issued an alert for drone attacks. It warned the residents to stay in shelters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/crackdown-on-putin-critics-navalnys-aide-imprisoned-for-extremist-organisation-619011">Crackdown on Putin critics: Navalny’s aide imprisoned for 'participating in an extremist' organisation</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The air force also issued an alert for drone strikes on the southern Odesa and Mykolayiv regions, which share part of Ukraine's Black Sea coast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The regions are home to port infrastructure that Moscow has battered regularly with attack drones and missiles since exiting a deal facilitating the safe shipment of grain from Ukraine last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia bans medically changing gender to protect 'family values'&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/ukraines-nato-bid-why-zelensky-is-living-under-illusions-618935">Ukraine’s NATO bid: Why Zelensky is living under illusions</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>White House on supporting Ukraine&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The war-torn nation claims that its counteroffensive is underway, but the White House said it did not support Kyiv launching attacks inside Russia after two drones from Ukraine damaged buildings in Moscow earlier on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a press briefing, White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters that "as a general matter we do not support attacks inside of Russia."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia called the two drone strikes on Moscow an act of terror as one of the explosions was close to its defence ministry headquarters. Moscow even vowed to take harsh retaliatory measures against Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jean-Pierre said, "This is a war that Russia started. This is their war. And they can end it at any time by withdrawing forces from Ukraine instead of launching brutal attacks on civilians."&nbsp;</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>

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Russia on Tuesday (July 25) pounded the Ukrainian capital with a sixth air attack this month, the military administration of Kyiv said. Serhiy Popko, the head of Kyiv's military, said on Telegram messaging app that Russia attacked Kyiv with Iranian-made Shahed drones.

Russia on Tuesday (July 25) pounded the Ukrainian capital with a sixth air attack this month, the military administration of Kyiv said. Serhiy Popko, the head of Kyiv's military, said on Telegram messaging app that Russia attacked Kyiv with Iranian-made Shahed drones. All the drones were downed by Ukraine's air defence systems, he claimed. Popko said that there were no casualties or serious damage, though information was still being collected. He also mentioned that the air alert lasted for around three hours and all air targets were detected and destroyed when they approach Kyiv. Amid Russia's warning of retaliation after a Ukrainian drone strike in Moscow, the Kyiv regional military administration had earlier issued an alert for drone attacks. It warned the residents to stay in shelters. Also read: Crackdown on Putin critics: Navalny’s aide imprisoned for 'participating in an extremist' organisation The air force also issued an alert for drone strikes on the southern Odesa and Mykolayiv regions, which share part of Ukraine's Black Sea coast. The regions are home to port infrastructure that Moscow has battered regularly with attack drones and missiles since exiting a deal facilitating the safe shipment of grain from Ukraine last week. Watch: Russia bans medically changing gender to protect 'family values' × Also read: Ukraine’s NATO bid: Why Zelensky is living under illusions White House on supporting Ukraine The war-torn nation claims that its counteroffensive is underway, but the White House said it did not support Kyiv launching attacks inside Russia after two drones from Ukraine damaged buildings in Moscow earlier on Monday. In a press briefing, White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters that "as a general matter we do not support attacks inside of Russia." Russia called the two drone strikes on Moscow an act of terror as one of the explosions was close to its defence ministry headquarters. Moscow even vowed to take harsh retaliatory measures against Ukraine. Jean-Pierre said, "This is a war that Russia started. This is their war. And they can end it at any time by withdrawing forces from Ukraine instead of launching brutal attacks on civilians." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION 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 strikes Kyiv for sixth time in a month after Ukrainian drones hit near its defence HQ

<p>An Instagram model Fan-Pei Koung has moved to Ukraine as she has become an "emotional support stripper" for soldiers engaged in the ongoing war against Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While aid workers have been going to Ukraine to help those devastated by the war, a "sex tourist" is a new thing for the war-ravaged nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fan-Pei Koung, who hails from Houston Texas, shared some of her images, which many would say are a bit revealing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The image purportedly shows&nbsp;the model on Ukrainian soil, with weapons such as missile launchers. She even described herself as a "globe-trotting girlfriend, now volunteering in Kharkiv".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Koung is quite popular on social media and using the fame, she created an OnlyFans account which is said to be free for Ukrainian soldiers and volunteers. She even said that the occasional locals could also use some cheering up.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-beijing-helping-moscow-by-secretly-supplying-gear-to-the-russian-army-619197">Is Beijing helping Moscow by secretly supplying gear to the Russian army?</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>On the website, Koung said that she makes content about "everything from free emotional breastfeeding to soldiers and volunteers" to collecting donations to distribute to volunteers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She spoke to The Daily Beast, where she called herself a "sex tourist" and also that she is the sexy girl in Ukraine who wants to volunteer and will probably put out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports say that she abandoned her life in the US to move to Europe in 2022. She claimed that in America, she did so many things, including winning a NASA Space Health Challenge and competing in the Miss Taiwanese American pageant in 2015. She has even worked for children's events in Oakland for the last five years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Koung reportedly travelled to Ukraine to volunteer in women's shelters and orphanages in Lviv in November 2022. Her friends had advised just against it, but she did it anyway.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-downs-drone-after-russias-warning-of-retaliation-over-moscow-strike-619151">Russia strikes Kyiv for sixth time in a month after Ukrainian drones hit near its defence HQ</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia’s star-wars weapon can hunt anything that flies | S-550 for India?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>After a while, she felt she was done with what she was doing and thought was ready to take up new challenges. She said, "It didn't feel like anything unique to what I had back in the States. I wanted more. I wanted to be with the military."&nbsp;</p>

<p>She moved to Ukraine full-time in February of 2023 and often found herself in the company of Ukrainians which was quite different from her time spent with the Americans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She said, "My standards are too high because I only want men who can care for themselves and think about people other than themselves."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"None of them [Americans] met my standards. And then I came to Ukraine, and everybody here thinks about people other than themselves," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Ukrainian men, they treat me like an infant. They need to know what I want even before I know what I want. I've never been treated like that in my life," she added.&nbsp;</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.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

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An Instagram model Fan-Pei Koung has moved to Ukraine as she has become an "emotional support stripper" for soldiers engaged in the ongoing war against Russia. While aid workers have been going to Ukraine to help those devastated by the war, a "sex tourist" is a new thing for the war-ravaged nation.

An Instagram model Fan-Pei Koung has moved to Ukraine as she has become an "emotional support stripper" for soldiers engaged in the ongoing war against Russia. While aid workers have been going to Ukraine to help those devastated by the war, a "sex tourist" is a new thing for the war-ravaged nation. Fan-Pei Koung, who hails from Houston Texas, shared some of her images, which many would say are a bit revealing. The image purportedly shows the model on Ukrainian soil, with weapons such as missile launchers. She even described herself as a "globe-trotting girlfriend, now volunteering in Kharkiv". Koung is quite popular on social media and using the fame, she created an OnlyFans account which is said to be free for Ukrainian soldiers and volunteers. She even said that the occasional locals could also use some cheering up. Also read: Is Beijing helping Moscow by secretly supplying gear to the Russian army? On the website, Koung said that she makes content about "everything from free emotional breastfeeding to soldiers and volunteers" to collecting donations to distribute to volunteers. She spoke to The Daily Beast, where she called herself a "sex tourist" and also that she is the sexy girl in Ukraine who wants to volunteer and will probably put out. Reports say that she abandoned her life in the US to move to Europe in 2022. She claimed that in America, she did so many things, including winning a NASA Space Health Challenge and competing in the Miss Taiwanese American pageant in 2015. She has even worked for children's events in Oakland for the last five years. Koung reportedly travelled to Ukraine to volunteer in women's shelters and orphanages in Lviv in November 2022. Her friends had advised just against it, but she did it anyway. Also read: Russia strikes Kyiv for sixth time in a month after Ukrainian drones hit near its defence HQ Watch: Russia’s star-wars weapon can hunt anything that flies | S-550 for India? × After a while, she felt she was done with what she was doing and thought was ready to take up new challenges. She said, "It didn't feel like anything unique to what I had back in the States. I wanted more. I wanted to be with the military." She moved to Ukraine full-time in February of 2023 and often found herself in the company of Ukrainians which was quite different from her time spent with the Americans. She said, "My standards are too high because I only want men who can care for themselves and think about people other than themselves." "None of them [Americans] met my standards. And then I came to Ukraine, and everybody here thinks about people other than themselves," she added. "Ukrainian men, they treat me like an infant. They need to know what I want even before I know what I want. I've never been treated like that in my life," she 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. 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.

Instagram model is now an 'Emotional Support Stripper' in Ukraine

<p>China again emerged to be at the centre of the Russia-Ukraine war as a report by POLITICO claimed that Beijing secretly sent gear to Russia, enough to equip an army.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned that a tall Caucasian man was seen inspecting body armour in pictures posted on the Chinese company's website.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shanghai H Win, a manufacturer of military-grade protective gear, said on the official website in March that "this spring, one of our customers came to our company to confirm the style and quantity of bulletproof vests, and carefully tested the quality of our vests."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The manufacturer of military-grade protective gear wrote on its website that the customer "immediately directly confirmed the order quantity of bulletproof vests and subsequent purchase intention".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report by POLITICO has a photo featuring two men, but the identity of the smiling customer isn't known. However, citing the customs records obtained, the report says that there's a fair chance he was Russian.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-downs-drone-after-russias-warning-of-retaliation-over-moscow-strike-619151">Russia strikes Kyiv for sixth time in a month after Ukrainian drones hit near its defence HQ</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The records apparently mentioned Russian buyers, who have declared orders for hundreds of thousands of bulletproof vests and helmets made by Shanghai H Win.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This report came weeks after it emerged that a Russian mercenary group received tens of thousands of protective helmets from China late last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In May, The Financial Times reported about&nbsp;the period of time when Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin was apparently raising a massive prisoner army to attack Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4b52e6f9-0766-4955-9e4f-5fcbb937853b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/China%20%284%29_0.png" /></p>

<p><em>Image shown in POLITICO.&nbsp;</em></p>

<h2><strong>China's peace plan to end war</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The report also contradicts the 12-point peace plan presented by China. Earlier this year, Beijing came up with a so-called political solution in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China said that it hopes to play a constructive role in resolving the geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine with the announcement of the peace plan in the form of a 12-point foreign ministry paper for a gradual de-escalation between the warring nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The move was vastly welcomed by the Western nations despite growing speculations that Beijing is mulling over sending "lethal aid" to Moscow for the Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/crackdown-on-putin-critics-navalnys-aide-imprisoned-for-extremist-organisation-619011">Crackdown on Putin critics: Navalny’s aide imprisoned for 'participating in an extremist' organisation</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Putin signs gender reassignment ban into law&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>China supplying equipment to Russia&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A few days back, French President Emmanuel Macron's top diplomatic adviser said China was delivering items that could be used as military equipment to Russia, although not on a massive scale.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Asked at the Aspen Security Forum last week on Thursday if the West had seen any evidence that China has armed Russia in any way in the war in Ukraine, Emmanuel Bonne told the moderator: "Yes, there are indications that they are doing things we would prefer them not to do."&nbsp;</p>

<p>News agency Reuters reported that Bonne is the head of Macron's diplomatic team at the Elysee Palace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When pressed on whether China was delivering weapons, Bonne said: "Well, kind of military equipment ... as far as we know they are not delivering massively military capacities to Russia but (we need that to be) no delivery."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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China again emerged to be at the centre of the Russia-Ukraine war as a report by POLITICO claimed that Beijing secretly sent gear to Russia, enough to equip an army.

China again emerged to be at the centre of the Russia-Ukraine war as a report by POLITICO claimed that Beijing secretly sent gear to Russia, enough to equip an army. The report mentioned that a tall Caucasian man was seen inspecting body armour in pictures posted on the Chinese company's website. Shanghai H Win, a manufacturer of military-grade protective gear, said on the official website in March that "this spring, one of our customers came to our company to confirm the style and quantity of bulletproof vests, and carefully tested the quality of our vests." The manufacturer of military-grade protective gear wrote on its website that the customer "immediately directly confirmed the order quantity of bulletproof vests and subsequent purchase intention". The report by POLITICO has a photo featuring two men, but the identity of the smiling customer isn't known. However, citing the customs records obtained, the report says that there's a fair chance he was Russian. Also read: Russia strikes Kyiv for sixth time in a month after Ukrainian drones hit near its defence HQ The records apparently mentioned Russian buyers, who have declared orders for hundreds of thousands of bulletproof vests and helmets made by Shanghai H Win. This report came weeks after it emerged that a Russian mercenary group received tens of thousands of protective helmets from China late last year. In May, The Financial Times reported about the period of time when Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin was apparently raising a massive prisoner army to attack Ukraine. Image shown in POLITICO. China's peace plan to end war The report also contradicts the 12-point peace plan presented by China. Earlier this year, Beijing came up with a so-called political solution in Ukraine. China said that it hopes to play a constructive role in resolving the geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine with the announcement of the peace plan in the form of a 12-point foreign ministry paper for a gradual de-escalation between the warring nations. The move was vastly welcomed by the Western nations despite growing speculations that Beijing is mulling over sending "lethal aid" to Moscow for the Ukraine war. Also read: Crackdown on Putin critics: Navalny’s aide imprisoned for 'participating in an extremist' organisation Watch: Putin signs gender reassignment ban into law × China supplying equipment to Russia A few days back, French President Emmanuel Macron's top diplomatic adviser said China was delivering items that could be used as military equipment to Russia, although not on a massive scale. Asked at the Aspen Security Forum last week on Thursday if the West had seen any evidence that China has armed Russia in any way in the war in Ukraine, Emmanuel Bonne told the moderator: "Yes, there are indications that they are doing things we would prefer them not to do." News agency Reuters reported that Bonne is the head of Macron's diplomatic team at the Elysee Palace. When pressed on whether China was delivering weapons, Bonne said: "Well, kind of military equipment ... as far as we know they are not delivering massively military capacities to Russia but (we need that to be) no delivery." (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.

Is Beijing helping Moscow by secretly supplying gear to the Russian army?

<p>Some of the weapons supplied by the United States and its allies to Ukraine were stolen by criminals, purported volunteer fighters and arms traffickers, a report from the US defence department's inspector general published by CNN has revealed.</p>

<p>The weapons&nbsp;were originally meant to aid Ukraine's war-effort against Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report, titled, 'DoD's Accountability of Equipment Provided to Ukraine',&nbsp;further claims that the stolen weaponry and equipment were later recovered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report claims that between February to September 2022, Washington faced challenges in tracking and monitoring all the US equipment sent to Ukraine. The Arms Export Control Act in the United States requires Washington to track its defence supplies to the countries.</p>

<p>The US defence department's inability to visit the areas where the equipment was being used or stored significantly hindered their ability to monitor the situation effectively, the report argued. The US resumed on-site inspections of weapons given to Ukraine with tracking systems.</p>

<h2><strong>US supply of weapons to Ukraine: What Washington deems as potential risk?</strong></h2>

<p>The report acknowledged that sending weapons to aid Ukraine's war-effort entails the risk of potential&nbsp;diversion, especially if territory changes hands during the course of war.</p>

<p>The Republican Party has criticised the Biden administration for the purported&nbsp;lack of accountability about the billions of dollars of aid provided to Ukraine.</p>

<h2><b>Russia-Ukraine war: When US weapons were stolen</b></h2>

<p>The report revealed instances when&nbsp;organisations deemed terrorist organisations by Russia and arms traffickers successfully stole weapons and equipment provided by the US and its allies.</p>

<p>For example, an organised crime group reportedly overseen by an unnamed Russian official used forged documents to steal weapons and ammunition. Similarly, Ukrainian criminals posed as aid workers to steal bulletproof vests.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Report: Kyiv can't account for 'hundreds of millions' in weapons | Russia-Ukraine War</strong></p>

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<p>The report only revealed the instances in which the Ukraine's intelligence services purportedly&nbsp;intervened and disrupted the arms stealing plots.</p>

<p>Overall, while larger items like missiles and helicopters were easier to track through intelligence mechanisms, smaller items, such as night-vision devices, posed more significant monitoring challenges.</p>

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Some of the weapons supplied by the United States and its allies to Ukraine were stolen by criminals, purported volunteer fighters and arms traffickers, a report from the US defence department's inspector general published by CNN has revealed.

Some of the weapons supplied by the United States and its allies to Ukraine were stolen by criminals, purported volunteer fighters and arms traffickers, a report from the US defence department's inspector general published by CNN has revealed. The weapons were originally meant to aid Ukraine's war-effort against Russia. The report, titled, 'DoD's Accountability of Equipment Provided to Ukraine', further claims that the stolen weaponry and equipment were later recovered. The report claims that between February to September 2022, Washington faced challenges in tracking and monitoring all the US equipment sent to Ukraine. The Arms Export Control Act in the United States requires Washington to track its defence supplies to the countries. The US defence department's inability to visit the areas where the equipment was being used or stored significantly hindered their ability to monitor the situation effectively, the report argued. The US resumed on-site inspections of weapons given to Ukraine with tracking systems. US supply of weapons to Ukraine: What Washington deems as potential risk? The report acknowledged that sending weapons to aid Ukraine's war-effort entails the risk of potential diversion, especially if territory changes hands during the course of war. The Republican Party has criticised the Biden administration for the purported lack of accountability about the billions of dollars of aid provided to Ukraine. Russia-Ukraine war: When US weapons were stolen The report revealed instances when organisations deemed terrorist organisations by Russia and arms traffickers successfully stole weapons and equipment provided by the US and its allies. For example, an organised crime group reportedly overseen by an unnamed Russian official used forged documents to steal weapons and ammunition. Similarly, Ukrainian criminals posed as aid workers to steal bulletproof vests. Also watch | Report: Kyiv can't account for 'hundreds of millions' in weapons | Russia-Ukraine War × The report only revealed the instances in which the Ukraine's intelligence services purportedly intervened and disrupted the arms stealing plots. Overall, while larger items like missiles and helicopters were easier to track through intelligence mechanisms, smaller items, such as night-vision devices, posed more significant monitoring challenges. 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.

How weapons sent by West got stolen in Ukraine, Pentagon report reveals

<p>Russia has come under scrutiny at the UN Security Council for allegedly exacerbating famine conditions by obstructing grain exports via the Black Sea, in an apparent bid to capitalise on soaring global food prices.</p>

<p>On Friday (July 21), Russia's representative expressed the possibility of reinstating the Black Sea grain initiative if offered improved conditions for its food and fertiliser exports. However, Western diplomats accused Moscow of holding impoverished nations hostage, reported the Guardian.</p>

<h2><strong>UN's Martin Griffiths decries impact on vulnerable communities</strong></h2>

<p>Martin Griffiths, the UN's head of humanitarian relief, lauded the success of the Black Sea grain initiative, which facilitated the export of 33 million metric tonnes of grain from Ukrainian ports to 45 countries via over a thousand ships within a year.</p>

<p>The agreement contributed to a 23 per cent&nbsp;reduction in average grain prices. Nevertheless, with the recent termination of the initiative, grain prices are rapidly rising, posing a significant threat to the world's poorest and most vulnerable populations who rely on food assistance.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: What was the Black sea grain deal all about?</strong></p>

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<p>“For many of those 362 million people, it’s not a matter of sadness or disappointment, it’s a matter of a threat to their future and the future of their children and their families,” Griffiths said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Western ambassadors at the council session pointed out the surge in Russian food exports, which is bolstering their economic gains at the expense of millions who cannot afford the higher-priced grain. Accusations were levied against Russia, calling their actions a form of political manipulation and hostage-taking of humanity.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-imposes-major-rice-export-ban-prompting-inflation-concerns-618003/amp"><strong>&nbsp;</strong>India imposes major rice export ban, prompting inflation concerns</a></p>

<h2><strong>Financing aggression through Black Sea agreement halt</strong></h2>

<p>France's ambassador, Nicolas de Rivière, alleged that Moscow's suspension of the Black Sea deal was a tactic to boost income for financing their aggressive war against Ukraine.</p>

<p>Russia's deputy representative, Dmitry Polyanskiy, refuted the allegations, asserting that only a small percentage of Ukrainian grain exports went to the neediest countries, and the initiative had become predominantly commercial. He highlighted the economic losses faced by Russian farmers due to western sanctions and the closure of an ammonia pipeline between Russia and Ukrainian Black Sea ports.</p>

<p>Polyanskiy stated that Russia would consider rejoining the initiative but demanded the lifting of financial and economic sanctions affecting Russian grain and fertiliser exports.</p>

<p>In response, Western diplomats decried Russia's demands, denouncing the exploitation of potential famine as a bargaining tool for national interests. The British ambassador, Barbara Woodward, strongly condemned the use of food as a weapon.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">“Food is not a weapon. We call on Russia to rejoin the deal.”<br />
<br />
🇬🇧<a href="https://twitter.com/BWoodward_UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BWoodward_UN</a><br />
<br />
The UK has called a Security Council meeting at 10am ET on Russia’s sabotage of the Black Sea Grain Deal.<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNSC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNSC</a> 🇬🇧🇺🇳 <a href="https://t.co/eI5PtBnGhH">pic.twitter.com/eI5PtBnGhH</a></p>
— UK at the UN 🇬🇧🇺🇳 (@UKUN_NewYork) <a href="https://twitter.com/UKUN_NewYork/status/1682382480970596354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Amidst the ongoing crisis, the international community faces a contentious standoff with Russia, as they grapple with the humanitarian consequences and attempt to find a resolution to the pressing issue of grain exports through the Black Sea.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Russia has come under scrutiny at the UN Security Council for allegedly exacerbating famine conditions by obstructing grain exports via the Black Sea, in an apparent bid to capitalise on soaring global food prices.

Russia has come under scrutiny at the UN Security Council for allegedly exacerbating famine conditions by obstructing grain exports via the Black Sea, in an apparent bid to capitalise on soaring global food prices. On Friday (July 21), Russia's representative expressed the possibility of reinstating the Black Sea grain initiative if offered improved conditions for its food and fertiliser exports. However, Western diplomats accused Moscow of holding impoverished nations hostage, reported the Guardian. UN's Martin Griffiths decries impact on vulnerable communities Martin Griffiths, the UN's head of humanitarian relief, lauded the success of the Black Sea grain initiative, which facilitated the export of 33 million metric tonnes of grain from Ukrainian ports to 45 countries via over a thousand ships within a year. The agreement contributed to a 23 per cent reduction in average grain prices. Nevertheless, with the recent termination of the initiative, grain prices are rapidly rising, posing a significant threat to the world's poorest and most vulnerable populations who rely on food assistance. Also watch | Gravitas: What was the Black sea grain deal all about? “For many of those 362 million people, it’s not a matter of sadness or disappointment, it’s a matter of a threat to their future and the future of their children and their families,” Griffiths said. Western ambassadors at the council session pointed out the surge in Russian food exports, which is bolstering their economic gains at the expense of millions who cannot afford the higher-priced grain. Accusations were levied against Russia, calling their actions a form of political manipulation and hostage-taking of humanity. Also read | India imposes major rice export ban, prompting inflation concerns Financing aggression through Black Sea agreement halt France's ambassador, Nicolas de Rivière, alleged that Moscow's suspension of the Black Sea deal was a tactic to boost income for financing their aggressive war against Ukraine. Russia's deputy representative, Dmitry Polyanskiy, refuted the allegations, asserting that only a small percentage of Ukrainian grain exports went to the neediest countries, and the initiative had become predominantly commercial. He highlighted the economic losses faced by Russian farmers due to western sanctions and the closure of an ammonia pipeline between Russia and Ukrainian Black Sea ports. Polyanskiy stated that Russia would consider rejoining the initiative but demanded the lifting of financial and economic sanctions affecting Russian grain and fertiliser exports. In response, Western diplomats decried Russia's demands, denouncing the exploitation of potential famine as a bargaining tool for national interests. The British ambassador, Barbara Woodward, strongly condemned the use of food as a weapon. “Food is not a weapon. We call on Russia to rejoin the deal.” 🇬🇧@BWoodward_UN The UK has called a Security Council meeting at 10am ET on Russia’s sabotage of the Black Sea Grain Deal. #UNSC 🇬🇧🇺🇳 pic.twitter.com/eI5PtBnGhH — UK at the UN 🇬🇧🇺🇳 (@UKUN_NewYork) July 21, 2023 × Amidst the ongoing crisis, the international community faces a contentious standoff with Russia, as they grapple with the humanitarian consequences and attempt to find a resolution to the pressing issue of grain exports through the Black Sea. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UN accuses Russia of 'holding humanity hostage' with Black Sea grain deal

<p>Russia's invasion of Ukraine started last year in February and left a significant impact on people and economies worldwide. New developments in the recent pose the threat of the war spreading&nbsp;and engulfing some more nations. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid the nations facing the threat&nbsp;is Poland, which is getting impacted due to the reported presence of Wagner mercenaries on its border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>State-run news agency PAP quoted its secretary Zbigniew Hoffmann as saying on Friday that Poland's security committee decided in a meeting on Wednesday to move military units to the country's east due to the Wagner Group's presence in Belarus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite claims that Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin has flown back to Russia, in a video on Wednesday, he was shown welcoming his fighters to Belarus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was also seen telling them that they would take no further part in the Ukraine war for now and that they have&nbsp;to gather their strength for Africa while they trained the Belarusian army.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-russian-missiles-strike-odesa-grain-warehouses-618072">Ukraine says Russian missiles strike Odesa grain warehouses</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Belarusian defence ministry said on Thursday that the Wagner mercenaries had started to train Belarusian special forces at a military range just a few miles from the border with NATO member Poland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Analysts have previously noted that any attack on a NATO member will be retaliated by the alliance as it is founded on the principle of collective defence, meaning that if one NATO ally is attacked, then all NATO allies are deemed to have been attacked.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They will attempt peace talks but if diplomatic efforts fail, it has the military power to undertake crisis-management operations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zbigniew Hoffmann told PAP: "Training or joint exercises of the Belarusian army and the Wagner Group is undoubtedly a provocation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Committee analysed possible threats, such as the dislocation of Wagner Group units. Therefore, the Minister of National Defense, chairman of the Committee, Mariusz Blaszczak, decided to move our military formations from the west to the east of Poland," Hoffmann added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-starts-firing-cluster-munitions-against-russian-forces-amid-criticism-617861">Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Military drone crashes in southwestern Poland&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The private broadcaster RMF FM reported on Friday that a military reconnaissance drone crashed in southwestern Poland late on Tuesday. &nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the broadcaster, the drone was found in woods near the village of Trzebien after a passer-by called emergency services to say he had seen an object crashing in the area, RMF reported. The area where the drone fell is near a military training facility,&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Russia's invasion of Ukraine started last year in February and left a significant impact on people and economies worldwide. New developments in the recent pose the threat of the war spreading and engulfing some more nations.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine started last year in February and left a significant impact on people and economies worldwide. New developments in the recent pose the threat of the war spreading and engulfing some more nations. Amid the nations facing the threat is Poland, which is getting impacted due to the reported presence of Wagner mercenaries on its border. State-run news agency PAP quoted its secretary Zbigniew Hoffmann as saying on Friday that Poland's security committee decided in a meeting on Wednesday to move military units to the country's east due to the Wagner Group's presence in Belarus. Despite claims that Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin has flown back to Russia, in a video on Wednesday, he was shown welcoming his fighters to Belarus. He was also seen telling them that they would take no further part in the Ukraine war for now and that they have to gather their strength for Africa while they trained the Belarusian army. Also read: Ukraine says Russian missiles strike Odesa grain warehouses The Belarusian defence ministry said on Thursday that the Wagner mercenaries had started to train Belarusian special forces at a military range just a few miles from the border with NATO member Poland. Analysts have previously noted that any attack on a NATO member will be retaliated by the alliance as it is founded on the principle of collective defence, meaning that if one NATO ally is attacked, then all NATO allies are deemed to have been attacked. They will attempt peace talks but if diplomatic efforts fail, it has the military power to undertake crisis-management operations. Zbigniew Hoffmann told PAP: "Training or joint exercises of the Belarusian army and the Wagner Group is undoubtedly a provocation." "The Committee analysed possible threats, such as the dislocation of Wagner Group units. Therefore, the Minister of National Defense, chairman of the Committee, Mariusz Blaszczak, decided to move our military formations from the west to the east of Poland," Hoffmann added. Watch this report: × Also read: Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism Military drone crashes in southwestern Poland The private broadcaster RMF FM reported on Friday that a military reconnaissance drone crashed in southwestern Poland late on Tuesday. According to the broadcaster, the drone was found in woods near the village of Trzebien after a passer-by called emergency services to say he had seen an object crashing in the area, RMF reported. The area where the drone fell is near a military training facility, (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.

Will Ukraine war expand to other regions? Poland moving troops over Wagner risk from Belarus

<p>Ukrainian forces have started the use of US-provided cluster munitions in an attempt to dismantle the positions of the Russian troops, a&nbsp;roadblock to Ukraine's summer offensive, reported The Washington Post citing unnamed Ukrainian officials familiar with the matter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine's use of US-supplied cluster munitions against Russian forces has sparked controversy due to the weapons' risks to civilians and their widely banned status. The decision to supply these munitions was made by US President Joe Biden bypassing certain arms export restrictions. US&nbsp;justified the move as a means to support Ukraine's military efforts until more weaponry becomes available.</p>

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<p>While speaking with the media portal on the condition of anonymity, Ukrainian officials said that these cluster bombs are being used to combat the heavily-fortified Russian trenches which have been trying to slow down Ukrainian advances in the territories it is seeking to retake.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added that officials reportedly said that these cluster munitions will be used to counteract their significant disadvantages in artillery and the number of troops.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Media reports citing officials continued to say that the cluster munitions are being used not only on front-line positions in southeastern Ukraine but also near the Russian-controlled city of Bakhmut. It is to be noted that the battle of Bakhmut has been the site of a prolonged and intense battle during the Russia-Ukraine war since it started in February last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Biden's approval followed by criticism</strong></h2>

<p>US President Joe Biden made a "difficult" decision to authorise the delivery of the controversial cluster munitions to Ukraine. However, this decision has faced opposition from human rights groups, European allies, and some Democrats, who worry about the dangers posed to civilians by these weapons.</p>

<p>Cluster bombs are banned in more than 120 countries. These bombs disperse smaller bomblets over a wide area and therefore pose a significant risk to civilians, especially children. It is because these submunitions can remain unexploded for years after conflicts end.</p>

<p>President Biden circumvented US law that prohibits the transfer of cluster munitions with a "dud rate" exceeding 1 percent. The US president employed a rare provision of the Foreign Assistance Act, citing vital US national security interests.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Comments by Russia and Ukraine&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin warned Ukraine about using cluster munitions, threatening retaliation if they are deployed against Russian forces. It is worth noting that Russia has already employed cluster munitions in populated areas of Ukraine multiple times since the invasion began in 2022, media reports said citing United Nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Israel: Protesters demand complete withdrawal of judicial bill</strong></p>

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<p>On the other hand, Ukraine has provided assurances that they will not use these weapons against population centers, and added that efforts will be made to clear the deployed areas after their use.</p>

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Ukrainian forces have started the use of US-provided cluster munitions in an attempt to dismantle the positions of the Russian troops, a roadblock to Ukraine's summer offensive, reported The Washington Post citing unnamed Ukrainian officials familiar with the matter.

Ukrainian forces have started the use of US-provided cluster munitions in an attempt to dismantle the positions of the Russian troops, a roadblock to Ukraine's summer offensive, reported The Washington Post citing unnamed Ukrainian officials familiar with the matter. Ukraine's use of US-supplied cluster munitions against Russian forces has sparked controversy due to the weapons' risks to civilians and their widely banned status. The decision to supply these munitions was made by US President Joe Biden bypassing certain arms export restrictions. US justified the move as a means to support Ukraine's military efforts until more weaponry becomes available. Also Read | Fed fines Deutsche Bank $186 million for inefficient action to restrain money laundering While speaking with the media portal on the condition of anonymity, Ukrainian officials said that these cluster bombs are being used to combat the heavily-fortified Russian trenches which have been trying to slow down Ukrainian advances in the territories it is seeking to retake. It added that officials reportedly said that these cluster munitions will be used to counteract their significant disadvantages in artillery and the number of troops. Also Read | Robots for sex? Expert warns AI can 'eliminate' the need for human partners Media reports citing officials continued to say that the cluster munitions are being used not only on front-line positions in southeastern Ukraine but also near the Russian-controlled city of Bakhmut. It is to be noted that the battle of Bakhmut has been the site of a prolonged and intense battle during the Russia-Ukraine war since it started in February last year. Biden's approval followed by criticism US President Joe Biden made a "difficult" decision to authorise the delivery of the controversial cluster munitions to Ukraine. However, this decision has faced opposition from human rights groups, European allies, and some Democrats, who worry about the dangers posed to civilians by these weapons. Cluster bombs are banned in more than 120 countries. These bombs disperse smaller bomblets over a wide area and therefore pose a significant risk to civilians, especially children. It is because these submunitions can remain unexploded for years after conflicts end. President Biden circumvented US law that prohibits the transfer of cluster munitions with a "dud rate" exceeding 1 percent. The US president employed a rare provision of the Foreign Assistance Act, citing vital US national security interests. Comments by Russia and Ukraine Russian President Vladimir Putin warned Ukraine about using cluster munitions, threatening retaliation if they are deployed against Russian forces. It is worth noting that Russia has already employed cluster munitions in populated areas of Ukraine multiple times since the invasion began in 2022, media reports said citing United Nations. Watch | Israel: Protesters demand complete withdrawal of judicial bill × On the other hand, Ukraine has provided assurances that they will not use these weapons against population centers, and added that efforts will be made to clear the deployed areas after their use. 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 starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism