<p>Ukraine claimed on Friday (July 20) that the Russian missiles hit grain terminals of an agricultural enterprise in the southern Odesa region. The regional governor said that the strikes injured two people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said on the Telegram messaging app, "Unfortunately, the grain terminals of an agricultural enterprise in the Odesa region were hit. The enemy destroyed 100 tons of peas and 20 tons of barley."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The strike came as Russia's attack on the southern port city for the fourth consecutive night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Oleh Kiper, head of the Odesa regional military administration said in a Telegram post Friday that the attacks were carried out with Kalibr missiles fired from the Black Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<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>

<p>Concerns have been raising over global food security after Russia suspended its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This emerged as a massive food security threat amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, which has already pushed the world into crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Officials said that one person was killed in strikes on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday that Russia had already launched nearly 70 missiles into Ukraine this week.</p>

<p>Zelensky said that almost 90 Iranian-made 'Shahed' drones were loitering munitions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The series of drone attacks on southern and eastern Ukraine came after the attacks on a bridge linking Russia to the Crimean Peninsula on Monday (July 17). Russia had said that it will retaliate.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Wagner mercenaries train Belarus special forces near Poland&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-deploying-more-warships-marines-in-west-asia-amid-iranian-aggression-618058">US deploying more warships, Marines in West Asia amid Iranian aggression</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Russian navy carried out live fire 'exercise' in Black Sea</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Moscow's defence ministry said Friday that Russia's navy carried out a live fire "exercise" in the Black Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, Kremlin said that it would consider ships travelling to Ukraine through the waterway as potential military targets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia's defence ministry said on Telegram that a missile boat from Moscow's Black Sea Fleet "carried out live firing of anti-ship cruise missiles at the target ship" in the northwestern part of the Black Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added that the target ship was "destroyed as a result of a missile strike". The ships and fleet aviation had also "worked out actions to isolate the area temporarily closed to navigation, and also carried out a set of measures to detain the offending ship".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><em>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;</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Ukraine claimed on Friday (July 20) that the Russian missiles hit grain terminals of an agricultural enterprise in the southern Odesa region. The regional governor said that the strikes injured two people.

Ukraine claimed on Friday (July 20) that the Russian missiles hit grain terminals of an agricultural enterprise in the southern Odesa region. The regional governor said that the strikes injured two people. He said on the Telegram messaging app, "Unfortunately, the grain terminals of an agricultural enterprise in the Odesa region were hit. The enemy destroyed 100 tons of peas and 20 tons of barley." The strike came as Russia's attack on the southern port city for the fourth consecutive night. Oleh Kiper, head of the Odesa regional military administration said in a Telegram post Friday that the attacks were carried out with Kalibr missiles fired from the Black Sea. Also read: Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism Concerns have been raising over global food security after Russia suspended its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal. This emerged as a massive food security threat amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, which has already pushed the world into crisis. Officials said that one person was killed in strikes on Thursday. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday that Russia had already launched nearly 70 missiles into Ukraine this week. Zelensky said that almost 90 Iranian-made 'Shahed' drones were loitering munitions. The series of drone attacks on southern and eastern Ukraine came after the attacks on a bridge linking Russia to the Crimean Peninsula on Monday (July 17). Russia had said that it will retaliate. Watch: Wagner mercenaries train Belarus special forces near Poland × Also read: US deploying more warships, Marines in West Asia amid Iranian aggression Russian navy carried out live fire 'exercise' in Black Sea Moscow's defence ministry said Friday that Russia's navy carried out a live fire "exercise" in the Black Sea. Recently, Kremlin said that it would consider ships travelling to Ukraine through the waterway as potential military targets. Russia's defence ministry said on Telegram that a missile boat from Moscow's Black Sea Fleet "carried out live firing of anti-ship cruise missiles at the target ship" in the northwestern part of the Black Sea. It added that the target ship was "destroyed as a result of a missile strike". The ships and fleet aviation had also "worked out actions to isolate the area temporarily closed to navigation, and also carried out a set of measures to detain the offending ship". 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.

Ukraine says Russian missiles strike Odesa grain warehouses

<p>The European Union's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell on Thursday (July 20) put forward a proposal of a 20 billion euro (USD 22.4 billion) fund for weapons, ammunitions and other military help for Ukraine. However, the plan would need more scrutiny from EU governments before it can go ahead. High Representative Josep Borrell presented the plan in EU foreign ministers' meeting in Brussels. This was part of an effort to put European support for Ukraine on a longer-term footing. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is in its second year now.</p>

<p>The proposal comes amid an international drive to give Ukraine long-term security assurances, as announced by members of the G7 on the sidelines of last week's NATO summit in Vilnius.</p>

<p>"We proposed the creation of a dedicated section under the European Peace Facility to provide up to 5 billion euros a year for the next four years for the defence needs of Ukraine," Borrell told a news conference after the meeting.</p>

<p><strong>Gravitas: Why are Wagner mercenaries training near Poland?</strong></p>

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<p>"This is the evaluation of the needs and the cost of our long-term security commitments to Ukraine," he said.</p>

<p>The European Peace Facility (EPF) was created in 2021. It is meant to finance actions that seek to prevent conflicts, build peace and strengthen international security. The EPF was initially worth 5.7 billion euros. It has since grown to 12 billion.</p>

<p>The facility is used to reimburse EU countries for at least part of the cost of weapons, ammunition and other military aid that they give to nations outside the bloc.</p>

<h2><strong>A welcome idea</strong></h2>

<p>The idea of longer-term military aid for Ukraine was welcomed by several ministers at the meeting but they said that the details about the funding would be subject to further discussions. Their governments would have to pay for any boost to the fund.</p>

<p>"A fund for the defence of Ukraine is going to be developed," Portuguese Foreign Minister Joao Gomes Cravinho told reporters. "As for the amounts, we are not there yet."</p>

<p>Borrell said that detailed talks among EU foreign and defence ministers on this fund will take place during a ministerial meeting which will take place at the end of August in Spain.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <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></strong></p>

<p>It was a landmark decision last year when the European Union decided to finance arms supply to Ukraine. Before that, the EU focused only on economic and political co-operation. It avoided involvement in armed conflicts.</p>

<p>But the debate on the new proposal are unlikely to be straightforward.</p>

<p>Hungary is holding up the disbursement of 500 million euros in current EPF funds for Ukraine aid, demanding that Hungarian bank OTP first be removed from a Ukrainian blacklist.</p>

<p>Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said Budapest would take the same stance with the new proposal.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The European Union's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell on Thursday (July 20) put forward a proposal of a 20 billion euro (USD 22.4 billion) fund for weapons, ammunitions and other military help for Ukraine.

The European Union's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell on Thursday (July 20) put forward a proposal of a 20 billion euro (USD 22.4 billion) fund for weapons, ammunitions and other military help for Ukraine. However, the plan would need more scrutiny from EU governments before it can go ahead. High Representative Josep Borrell presented the plan in EU foreign ministers' meeting in Brussels. This was part of an effort to put European support for Ukraine on a longer-term footing. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is in its second year now. The proposal comes amid an international drive to give Ukraine long-term security assurances, as announced by members of the G7 on the sidelines of last week's NATO summit in Vilnius. "We proposed the creation of a dedicated section under the European Peace Facility to provide up to 5 billion euros a year for the next four years for the defence needs of Ukraine," Borrell told a news conference after the meeting. Gravitas: Why are Wagner mercenaries training near Poland? × "This is the evaluation of the needs and the cost of our long-term security commitments to Ukraine," he said. The European Peace Facility (EPF) was created in 2021. It is meant to finance actions that seek to prevent conflicts, build peace and strengthen international security. The EPF was initially worth 5.7 billion euros. It has since grown to 12 billion. The facility is used to reimburse EU countries for at least part of the cost of weapons, ammunition and other military aid that they give to nations outside the bloc. A welcome idea The idea of longer-term military aid for Ukraine was welcomed by several ministers at the meeting but they said that the details about the funding would be subject to further discussions. Their governments would have to pay for any boost to the fund. "A fund for the defence of Ukraine is going to be developed," Portuguese Foreign Minister Joao Gomes Cravinho told reporters. "As for the amounts, we are not there yet." Borrell said that detailed talks among EU foreign and defence ministers on this fund will take place during a ministerial meeting which will take place at the end of August in Spain. Also Read | Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism It was a landmark decision last year when the European Union decided to finance arms supply to Ukraine. Before that, the EU focused only on economic and political co-operation. It avoided involvement in armed conflicts. But the debate on the new proposal are unlikely to be straightforward. Hungary is holding up the disbursement of 500 million euros in current EPF funds for Ukraine aid, demanding that Hungarian bank OTP first be removed from a Ukrainian blacklist. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said Budapest would take the same stance with the new proposal. (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 ×

EU kicks off talks on 20 billion euro military fund for Ukraine

<p>Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday (July 19) that it would deem all ships travelling to Ukrainian ports to be carriers of military cargo. It added that countries the flag of which would potentially fly on the ships will be considered to be party to the conflict on the Ukrainian side. Russia has taken this stance after its decision this week to pull out of the United Nations-brokered Black Sea grain import deal. This deal had previously guaranteed the safety of Ukrainian exports for the past one year.</p>

<p>"In connection with the termination of the Black Sea Initiative and the end of the maritime humanitarian corridor, from 00.00 Moscow time on July 20, 2023 (2100 GMT on Wednesday) all ships proceeding to Ukrainian ports in Black Sea waters will be considered as potential carriers of military cargo," the ministry said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | BRICS Summit 2023: FM Lavrov to represent Russia at the Summit</strong></p>

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<p>The ministry also said that Russia was also declaring southeastern and northwestern parts of the Black Sea's international waters to be temporarily unsafe for navigation. The ministry did not give details about the parts of the sea which would be affected.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin stikes conciliatory tone</strong></h2>

<p>Just when Russian Defence Ministry appeared to raise stakes, Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared to strike a conciliatory tone. He said that Russia can 'consider' returning to the grain deal if Russia's demands are "fully met".</p>

<p>"The continuation of the grain deal in its current form has lost all meaning," Putin said at a government meeting, "of course we will consider the possibility of returning to it -- but only under one condition: if all principles under which Russia agreed to participate in the deal are fully taken into account and fulfilled."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Spike in wheat prices</strong></h2>

<p>Wheat prices rose on the same day Russia said it was ceasing its participation in the grain deal. There was 3 per cent increase in wheat futures. The prices hit a high of 689.25 cents per bushel. The prices remained well below the peak they reached in May last year. The price at that time was 1177.5 cents per bushel.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia attacked grain infrastructure, accuses Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday (July 19), Ukraine accused Russia of attacking grain infrastructure during overnight strikes that were aimed at two of Ukraine's Black Sea ports. Ukraine said it will not be intimidated from working to keep grain exports moving out of them.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-boss-yevgeny-prigozhin-seen-first-time-in-public-post-failed-coup-attempt-617578">Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin seen first time in public post failed coup attempt</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia has as of now, attacked the Odesa region for second consecutive night</p>

<p>"Russian terrorists absolutely deliberately targeted the infrastructure of the grain deal," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on the Telegram messaging app. "Every Russian missile - is a strike not only on Ukraine but on everyone in the world who wants normal and safe life."</p>

<p>Due to its significant grains exports, Ukraine is often called 'breadbasket of the world'. After Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. The grain exports were impeded. This had raised the spectre of a global food crisis.</p>

<p>Turkey and the United Nations then brokered a deal between Ukraine and Russia. The Black Sea grain deal was intended to facilitate Russian and Ukrainian agricultural exports. The deal expired on July 17. Russia declined to renew its participation.</p>

<p>There has been a constant complaint from Moscow that a parallel deal to ease rules for Russian exports of food and fertilisers was not being implemented. Kyiv has called for security guarantees to allow shipping to resume without Russian participation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday (July 19) that it would deem all ships travelling to Ukrainian ports to be carriers of military cargo. It added that countries the flag of which would potentially fly on the ships will be considered to be party to the conflict on the Ukrainian side.

Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday (July 19) that it would deem all ships travelling to Ukrainian ports to be carriers of military cargo. It added that countries the flag of which would potentially fly on the ships will be considered to be party to the conflict on the Ukrainian side. Russia has taken this stance after its decision this week to pull out of the United Nations-brokered Black Sea grain import deal. This deal had previously guaranteed the safety of Ukrainian exports for the past one year. "In connection with the termination of the Black Sea Initiative and the end of the maritime humanitarian corridor, from 00.00 Moscow time on July 20, 2023 (2100 GMT on Wednesday) all ships proceeding to Ukrainian ports in Black Sea waters will be considered as potential carriers of military cargo," the ministry said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app. Watch | BRICS Summit 2023: FM Lavrov to represent Russia at the Summit × The ministry also said that Russia was also declaring southeastern and northwestern parts of the Black Sea's international waters to be temporarily unsafe for navigation. The ministry did not give details about the parts of the sea which would be affected. Putin stikes conciliatory tone Just when Russian Defence Ministry appeared to raise stakes, Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared to strike a conciliatory tone. He said that Russia can 'consider' returning to the grain deal if Russia's demands are "fully met". "The continuation of the grain deal in its current form has lost all meaning," Putin said at a government meeting, "of course we will consider the possibility of returning to it -- but only under one condition: if all principles under which Russia agreed to participate in the deal are fully taken into account and fulfilled." Spike in wheat prices Wheat prices rose on the same day Russia said it was ceasing its participation in the grain deal. There was 3 per cent increase in wheat futures. The prices hit a high of 689.25 cents per bushel. The prices remained well below the peak they reached in May last year. The price at that time was 1177.5 cents per bushel. Russia attacked grain infrastructure, accuses Ukraine On Wednesday (July 19), Ukraine accused Russia of attacking grain infrastructure during overnight strikes that were aimed at two of Ukraine's Black Sea ports. Ukraine said it will not be intimidated from working to keep grain exports moving out of them. Also Read | Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin seen first time in public post failed coup attempt Russia has as of now, attacked the Odesa region for second consecutive night "Russian terrorists absolutely deliberately targeted the infrastructure of the grain deal," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on the Telegram messaging app. "Every Russian missile - is a strike not only on Ukraine but on everyone in the world who wants normal and safe life." Due to its significant grains exports, Ukraine is often called 'breadbasket of the world'. After Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. The grain exports were impeded. This had raised the spectre of a global food crisis. Turkey and the United Nations then brokered a deal between Ukraine and Russia. The Black Sea grain deal was intended to facilitate Russian and Ukrainian agricultural exports. The deal expired on July 17. Russia declined to renew its participation. There has been a constant complaint from Moscow that a parallel deal to ease rules for Russian exports of food and fertilisers was not being implemented. Kyiv has called for security guarantees to allow shipping to resume without Russian participation. (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 ×

Blow hot blow cold? Putin sounds conciliatory but defence ministry raises stakes on grain ships

<p>Ukrainian authorities claimed early Thursday (July 20) that nine people were injured, including five children, after a Russian strike on the Ukrainian port city of Mykolaiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Telegram, local governor Vitaliy Kim wrote that "Russians hit the city centre. A garage and a three-story residential building are on fire."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kim said that a three-year-old and a child less than a year old were among the injured, their condition is not known yet. He didn't provide details about the strike.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Ukraine's air force had announced an air alert for Mykolaiv and other regions. The city's mayor Oleksandr Senkevych wrote on Telegram: "There is a huge hole in the ground near a three-story residential building."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-consider-ukraine-bound-ships-to-be-carrying-military-cargo-617577">Blow hot blow cold? Putin sounds conciliatory but defence ministry raises stakes on grain ships</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>He said that emergency services were working at the site and "at least five residential high-rise buildings were damaged". He added that at another address "several garages" were on fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mykolaiv is located on the Black Sea, about 170 kilometres from Moscow-annexed Crimea and has often been targeted by Moscow during the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kim said on Tuesday that an "industrial facility" in the city had been targeted in a strike launched hours after the Kremlin failed to renew a pact allowing Ukraine's grain exports to be safe. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-boss-yevgeny-prigozhin-seen-first-time-in-public-post-failed-coup-attempt-617578">Wagner Group boss Yevgeny Prigozhin seen first time in public post failed coup</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Attack on Odesa</strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian authorities also said that Russia attacked the southern port city of Odesa for the third night in a row as the region's military administration Oleh Kiper said in a post on Telegram that at least two people were injured in the attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian air force said early Thursday that at least eight Russian Tu-22M3 aircraft were "flying in the direction of the Black Sea."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Ukrainian president aide admits counteroffensive will take long</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Russia captures railway station&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In another development, the Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday that its forces had captured Movchanove railway station in Ukraine's northeastern Kharkiv region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine, which reclaimed much of the territory last September, warned this week that Russia was again on the attack in the region, with "heavy fighting" taking place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ministry spokesperson Igor Konashenkov said that Russian forces also launched strikes on military-industrial sites, a fuel and ammunition store in Odesa, and a Ukrainian Air Force air base in the Kirovogradska region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><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></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukrainian authorities claimed early Thursday (July 20) that nine people were injured, including five children, after a Russian strike on the Ukrainian port city of Mykolaiv.

Ukrainian authorities claimed early Thursday (July 20) that nine people were injured, including five children, after a Russian strike on the Ukrainian port city of Mykolaiv. On Telegram, local governor Vitaliy Kim wrote that "Russians hit the city centre. A garage and a three-story residential building are on fire." Kim said that a three-year-old and a child less than a year old were among the injured, their condition is not known yet. He didn't provide details about the strike. Earlier, Ukraine's air force had announced an air alert for Mykolaiv and other regions. The city's mayor Oleksandr Senkevych wrote on Telegram: "There is a huge hole in the ground near a three-story residential building." Also read: Blow hot blow cold? Putin sounds conciliatory but defence ministry raises stakes on grain ships He said that emergency services were working at the site and "at least five residential high-rise buildings were damaged". He added that at another address "several garages" were on fire. Mykolaiv is located on the Black Sea, about 170 kilometres from Moscow-annexed Crimea and has often been targeted by Moscow during the war. Kim said on Tuesday that an "industrial facility" in the city had been targeted in a strike launched hours after the Kremlin failed to renew a pact allowing Ukraine's grain exports to be safe. Also read: Wagner Group boss Yevgeny Prigozhin seen first time in public post failed coup Attack on Odesa Ukrainian authorities also said that Russia attacked the southern port city of Odesa for the third night in a row as the region's military administration Oleh Kiper said in a post on Telegram that at least two people were injured in the attacks. The Ukrainian air force said early Thursday that at least eight Russian Tu-22M3 aircraft were "flying in the direction of the Black Sea." Watch: Ukrainian president aide admits counteroffensive will take long × Russia captures railway station In another development, the Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday that its forces had captured Movchanove railway station in Ukraine's northeastern Kharkiv region. Ukraine, which reclaimed much of the territory last September, warned this week that Russia was again on the attack in the region, with "heavy fighting" taking place. Ministry spokesperson Igor Konashenkov said that Russian forces also launched strikes on military-industrial sites, a fuel and ammunition store in Odesa, and a Ukrainian Air Force air base in the Kirovogradska region. 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.

Russian strike on Ukraine's port city of Mykolaiv injures nine, including children

Cargo ships travelling to Ukraine can now become targets of Russian strikes. Moscow has warned from now on such vessels will be considered potential carriers of military cargo. This warning came in one day after it exited from the landmark black sea grain deal.

US says Moscow planning to attack ships, pass blame on Ukraine

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidrLnTMwbK0IE1" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>After Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal, which allowed the safe passage for Ukrainian grain exports, global wheat prices have exponentially shot up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday, wheat prices on the European stock exchange soared by nearly nine per cent from the previous day to $284 per tonne. US wheat futures saw a jump of 8.5 per cent — the highest daily rise since the war broke out in February last year. Similarly, corn prices were up five to four per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The immediate effect of the suspension is that millions of tonnes of wheat that was bound for Africa and West Asia has been stranded. While the wheat remains stuck, the Russian side has started "deliberately targeting the grain deal infrastructure", according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts argue that the domino effect will be reflected in global inflation which had calmed down after a long time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Russia’s decision to suspend participation in the Black Sea Grain Initiative will worsen food insecurity and harm millions of vulnerable people around the world,” said Adam Hodge, a spokesperson for the US National Security Council.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-russia-formally-backs-out-of-black-sea-grain-deal-what-happens-now-616637" target="_blank"><strong>Explained | Russia formally backs out of Black Sea grain deal. What happens now?</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>What is the Black Sea grain deal?</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine is one of the world’s biggest exporters of food grains, such as wheat and corn, and has played a significant role in the UN’s food aid programmes. Therefore, when Russia invaded and blocked Ukrainian ports, prices of food grains soared across parts of the world.</p>

<p>After months of jeopardy, a deal brokered by Turkey and the United Nations in July last year lifted a Russian naval blockade of Ukraine's Black Sea cities and set terms for millions of tonnes of wheat and other grain to start flowing from Ukraine's filled silos and ports.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-withdraws-from-ukraine-grain-deal-can-zelensky-bank-on-eu-617063" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Russia withdraws from Ukraine grain deal, can Zelensky bank on EU?</strong></a></p>

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<p>Since then, the deal's expiration date has been extended multiple times with Moscow waiting till the eleventh hour to grant an extension. However, it has done so reluctantly as the demands set by Russian President Vladimir Putin have not been met by the Western nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prior to calling off the deal on Monday, Moscow wanted its Russian Agricultural Bank (Rosselkhozbank) to be reconnected to the SWIFT international payments system after it was cut off due to sanctions by the European Union in June 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Western world has accused Moscow of using food commodities, after gas as a means to leverage its position in the ongoing conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
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<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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After Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal, which allowed the safe passage for Ukrainian grain exports, global wheat prices have exponentially shot up. On Wednesday, wheat prices on the European stock exchange soared by nearly nine per cent from the previous day to $284 per tonne.

After Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal, which allowed the safe passage for Ukrainian grain exports, global wheat prices have exponentially shot up. On Wednesday, wheat prices on the European stock exchange soared by nearly nine per cent from the previous day to $284 per tonne. US wheat futures saw a jump of 8.5 per cent — the highest daily rise since the war broke out in February last year. Similarly, corn prices were up five to four per cent. The immediate effect of the suspension is that millions of tonnes of wheat that was bound for Africa and West Asia has been stranded. While the wheat remains stuck, the Russian side has started "deliberately targeting the grain deal infrastructure", according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Experts argue that the domino effect will be reflected in global inflation which had calmed down after a long time. “Russia’s decision to suspend participation in the Black Sea Grain Initiative will worsen food insecurity and harm millions of vulnerable people around the world,” said Adam Hodge, a spokesperson for the US National Security Council. Explained | Russia formally backs out of Black Sea grain deal. What happens now? What is the Black Sea grain deal? Ukraine is one of the world’s biggest exporters of food grains, such as wheat and corn, and has played a significant role in the UN’s food aid programmes. Therefore, when Russia invaded and blocked Ukrainian ports, prices of food grains soared across parts of the world. After months of jeopardy, a deal brokered by Turkey and the United Nations in July last year lifted a Russian naval blockade of Ukraine's Black Sea cities and set terms for millions of tonnes of wheat and other grain to start flowing from Ukraine's filled silos and ports. WATCH | Russia withdraws from Ukraine grain deal, can Zelensky bank on EU? × Since then, the deal's expiration date has been extended multiple times with Moscow waiting till the eleventh hour to grant an extension. However, it has done so reluctantly as the demands set by Russian President Vladimir Putin have not been met by the Western nations. Prior to calling off the deal on Monday, Moscow wanted its Russian Agricultural Bank (Rosselkhozbank) to be reconnected to the SWIFT international payments system after it was cut off due to sanctions by the European Union in June 2022. Meanwhile, the Western world has accused Moscow of using food commodities, after gas as a means to leverage its position in the ongoing conflict. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wheat prices rise exponentially after Russia pulls out of Black Sea grain deal

<p>Britain's spy chief made rare comments on Wednesday (July 19) on the ongoing Ukraine war and Russian President Vladimir Putin in a speech and interview in the Czech capital Prague.&nbsp;</p>

<p>MI6 head Richard Moore claimed that Russians are "appalled" by their country's invasion and even urged them to "join hands" with the West.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also made an unusual public appeal for new agents as he used the crushing of the 1968 Prague Spring movement by Soviet-led armies as a call for Russian recruits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moore said, "There are many Russians today who are silently appalled by the sight of their armed forces pulverising Ukrainian cities, expelling innocent families from their homes and kidnapping thousands of children."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As they witness the venality, infighting and sheer callous incompetence of their leaders... many Russians are wrestling with the same dilemmas and the same tugs of conscience as their predecessors did in 1968," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I invite them to do what others have already done these past 18 months and join hands with us. Our door is always open," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While elaborating his unusual call of recruits, Moore said that the British Foreign Intelligence Service would handle any such moves "with discretion and professionalism."</p>

<p>"Their secrets will always be safe with us" and that "our loyalty to our agents is lifelong."&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a question-and-answer session hosted by the Politico website following his speech, Moore insisted protecting such assets is "sacred" as he insinuated that the spy service was already successfully harnessing Russian agents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If we could not do that, we would go out of business, and I can assure you we are very much in business," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Moore on Putin and Wagner</strong></h2>

<p>A report by CNN mentioned in detail how the MI6 head, in a way, confirmed that during the failed coup attempt of June 24, the leader of the private military organisation Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin, did strike a deal with Putin to cease his assault on Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moore said, "If you look at Putin's behaviours on that day. Prigozhin started off I think, as a traitor at breakfast. He had been pardoned by supper and then a few days later, he was invited for tea. So, there are some things and even the chief of MI6 finds that a little bit difficult to try and interpret, in terms of who's in and who's out."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He [Putin] really didn't fight back against Prigozhin. He cut a deal to save his skin, using the good offices of the leader of Belarus.</p>

<p>"So even I can't see inside Putin's head, He has to have realised, I am sure that something that is deeply rotten in the state of Denmark - to quote Hamlet - and he had to cut this deal," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moore also said he was positive about Ukraine will come victorious and be able to regain territory taken by Russia since it launched its invasion in February last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Britain's spy chief made rare comments on Wednesday (July 19) on the ongoing Ukraine war and Russian President Vladimir Putin in a speech and interview in the Czech capital Prague.

Britain's spy chief made rare comments on Wednesday (July 19) on the ongoing Ukraine war and Russian President Vladimir Putin in a speech and interview in the Czech capital Prague. MI6 head Richard Moore claimed that Russians are "appalled" by their country's invasion and even urged them to "join hands" with the West. He also made an unusual public appeal for new agents as he used the crushing of the 1968 Prague Spring movement by Soviet-led armies as a call for Russian recruits. Moore said, "There are many Russians today who are silently appalled by the sight of their armed forces pulverising Ukrainian cities, expelling innocent families from their homes and kidnapping thousands of children." "As they witness the venality, infighting and sheer callous incompetence of their leaders... many Russians are wrestling with the same dilemmas and the same tugs of conscience as their predecessors did in 1968," he said. "I invite them to do what others have already done these past 18 months and join hands with us. Our door is always open," he added. While elaborating his unusual call of recruits, Moore said that the British Foreign Intelligence Service would handle any such moves "with discretion and professionalism." "Their secrets will always be safe with us" and that "our loyalty to our agents is lifelong." During a question-and-answer session hosted by the Politico website following his speech, Moore insisted protecting such assets is "sacred" as he insinuated that the spy service was already successfully harnessing Russian agents. "If we could not do that, we would go out of business, and I can assure you we are very much in business," he said. Moore on Putin and Wagner A report by CNN mentioned in detail how the MI6 head, in a way, confirmed that during the failed coup attempt of June 24, the leader of the private military organisation Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin, did strike a deal with Putin to cease his assault on Moscow. Moore said, "If you look at Putin's behaviours on that day. Prigozhin started off I think, as a traitor at breakfast. He had been pardoned by supper and then a few days later, he was invited for tea. So, there are some things and even the chief of MI6 finds that a little bit difficult to try and interpret, in terms of who's in and who's out." "He [Putin] really didn't fight back against Prigozhin. He cut a deal to save his skin, using the good offices of the leader of Belarus. "So even I can't see inside Putin's head, He has to have realised, I am sure that something that is deeply rotten in the state of Denmark - to quote Hamlet - and he had to cut this deal," he added. Moore also said he was positive about Ukraine will come victorious and be able to regain territory taken by Russia since it launched its invasion in February last year. (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.

MI6 chief urges Russians 'appalled' by war to 'join hands with us'

<p>Talks to bring home thousands of Ukraine children that have been "abducted" by Russia have reportedly been underway since April.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, talking to Reuters, a source with knowledge of the discussions, confirmed a previous Finance Times report that Saudi Arabia and Turkey are trying to mediate the repatriation efforts and bring home Ukrainian children that have been taken to Russia, and placed in children's homes or even adopted by Russian families.</p>

<h2><strong>Talks going on for months</strong></h2>

<p>"The Turks and the Saudis especially have been showing an interest in bringing Ukrainian children back," the source told Reuters on the condition of anonymity.</p>

<p>As per the Reuters source, talks had been going on since April, but they could've started earlier.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/31-children-that-russia-stole-return-home-to-ukraine-580540">31 children that Russia 'stole' return home to Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>The individual reportedly failed to disclose the status of the talks. They, however, expressed doubt that a deal would be reached and said it would depend on Russian President Vladimir Putin accepting he's a "war criminal".</p>

<p>"For him to give (the children) back would mean that he agrees that he's a war criminal."</p>

<p>The source did not indicate to Reuters how the talks were going but expressed doubt that a deal would be reached because it would depend on Russian President Vladimir Putin.</p>

<p>"For him to give (the children) back would mean that he agrees that he's a war criminal," the source said.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, quoting four people, a Financial Times report said that the discussions have been underway for several months.</p>

<h2><strong>Abduction of Ukrainian children</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine has accused Russia of illegally carrying out the forced deportation of thousands of Ukrainian&nbsp;children. Russia has, however, denied the "abduction" allegation and says they were transported for their own safety, and to save the children from the horrors of the war.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-consider-ukraine-bound-ships-to-be-carrying-military-cargo-617577">Russia to consider Ukraine-bound ships to be carrying 'military cargo'</a></strong></p>

<p>In March, the International Criminal Court announced an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin over the war crime of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children.&nbsp; At the time, another warrant on similar charges was also issued for Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia's presidential commissioner for children's rights.</p>

<p>As per Kyiv's estimates, nearly 19,500 children have been taken to Russia or Russian-occupied Crimea since the beginning of the invasion. Of these only 385 children have been repatriated, show Ukrainian official figures.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Talks to bring home thousands of Ukraine children that have been "abducted" by Russia have reportedly been underway since April. On Wednesday, talking to Reuters, a source with knowledge of the discussions, confirmed a previous Finance Times report that Saudi Arabia and Turkey are trying to mediate the repatriation efforts and bring home Ukrainian children that have been taken to Russia, and placed in children's homes or even adopted by Russian families.

Talks to bring home thousands of Ukraine children that have been "abducted" by Russia have reportedly been underway since April. On Wednesday, talking to Reuters, a source with knowledge of the discussions, confirmed a previous Finance Times report that Saudi Arabia and Turkey are trying to mediate the repatriation efforts and bring home Ukrainian children that have been taken to Russia, and placed in children's homes or even adopted by Russian families. Talks going on for months "The Turks and the Saudis especially have been showing an interest in bringing Ukrainian children back," the source told Reuters on the condition of anonymity. As per the Reuters source, talks had been going on since April, but they could've started earlier. Also read | 31 children that Russia 'stole' return home to Ukraine The individual reportedly failed to disclose the status of the talks. They, however, expressed doubt that a deal would be reached and said it would depend on Russian President Vladimir Putin accepting he's a "war criminal". "For him to give (the children) back would mean that he agrees that he's a war criminal." The source did not indicate to Reuters how the talks were going but expressed doubt that a deal would be reached because it would depend on Russian President Vladimir Putin. "For him to give (the children) back would mean that he agrees that he's a war criminal," the source said. On Tuesday, quoting four people, a Financial Times report said that the discussions have been underway for several months. Abduction of Ukrainian children Ukraine has accused Russia of illegally carrying out the forced deportation of thousands of Ukrainian children. Russia has, however, denied the "abduction" allegation and says they were transported for their own safety, and to save the children from the horrors of the war. Also read | Russia to consider Ukraine-bound ships to be carrying 'military cargo' In March, the International Criminal Court announced an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin over the war crime of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children. At the time, another warrant on similar charges was also issued for Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia's presidential commissioner for children's rights. As per Kyiv's estimates, nearly 19,500 children have been taken to Russia or Russian-occupied Crimea since the beginning of the invasion. Of these only 385 children have been repatriated, show Ukrainian official figures. (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.

Talks to bring back Ukrainian children 'abducted' by Russia on since April: Report

<p>An American think tank has claimed that insubordination is&nbsp;on the rise in the Russian military after top commanders were fired over questioning Kremlin's war strategy.&nbsp;The Institute for the Study of War said the disobeying of orders by the Russian troops was creating a problem for President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report claimed that incidences of insubordination rose after the dismissal of Maj. Gen. Ivan Popov, the commander of the 58th army in the Zaporizhzhia region - a focal point in Ukraine's counteroffensive. After&nbsp;Popov's firing, several military bloggers across the country criticised the Putin administration for taking unilateral calls that may harm morale.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an audio statement released for his troops, Popov could be heard saying he was inflicted a&nbsp;"treacherous" stab after meeting the top military brass of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The top officers apparently saw me as a source of threat and rapidly issued an order to get rid of me, which was signed by the defence minister in just one day," he said. "The Ukrainian military has failed to break through our army's defences, but the top commander hit us in the rear, treacherously and cowardly beheading the army at this most difficult moment."</p>

<p>"It was necessary either to keep quiet and be a coward or to say it the way it is.&nbsp;I had no right to lie in the name of you, in the name of my fallen comrades in arms, so I outlined all the problems which exist," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-top-general-sacked-for-questioning-defence-ministrys-tactics-in-southern-ukraine-615131"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Russian top general sacked for questioning defence ministry’s tactics in southern Ukraine</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Threat issued by troops&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Apart from Popov, the dismissals of&nbsp;106th Guards Airborne (VDV) Division Commander Major General Vladimir Seliverstov,&nbsp;7th VDV Division Commander Major General Alexander Kornev&nbsp;and&nbsp;Major General Ramil Ibatullin,&nbsp;90th Tank Division Commander have sullied the morale of troops fighting on the frontlines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A prominent Kremlin-affiliated blogger claimed that Seliverstov’s dismissal was a result of similar insubordination, and Russian sources claimed that Seliverstov had a reputation for speaking up on behalf of his soldiers," the think tank noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russian President Putin may visit China to attend Belt &amp; Road Summit in October&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>With reports claiming that the Russian defence ministry was planning to arrest VDV Commander Colonel General Mikhail Teplinsky, troops in the division have threatened they would&nbsp;withdraw from their positions in occupied Kherson Oblast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The VDV servicemen are blackmailing the Russian MoD to ensure that Teplinsky continues to command troops in Ukraine, despite Teplinsky’s previous affiliation with Wagner Group financier Yevgeny Prigozhin.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia's struggles&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Despite making decent headways in the war, Russia has struggled to maintain an effective command structure, experts argue. It is perhaps one of the reasons why Ukraine has managed to put up a defiant defence which has not been breached completely so far.</p>

<p>Several big names have been purged while others have been quietly removed from public duty. The think tank said if the current situation persists, the morale of troops is likely to be hurt which will "degrade Russian capabilities to conduct tactical offensive operations that are critical to the Russian elastic defence in southern Ukraine".&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>(<em>Disclaimer:</em></strong><em> <strong>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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An American think tank has claimed that insubordination is on the rise in the Russian military after top commanders were fired over questioning Kremlin's war strategy.

An American think tank has claimed that insubordination is on the rise in the Russian military after top commanders were fired over questioning Kremlin's war strategy. The Institute for the Study of War said the disobeying of orders by the Russian troops was creating a problem for President Vladimir Putin. The report claimed that incidences of insubordination rose after the dismissal of Maj. Gen. Ivan Popov, the commander of the 58th army in the Zaporizhzhia region - a focal point in Ukraine's counteroffensive. After Popov's firing, several military bloggers across the country criticised the Putin administration for taking unilateral calls that may harm morale. In an audio statement released for his troops, Popov could be heard saying he was inflicted a "treacherous" stab after meeting the top military brass of the country. "The top officers apparently saw me as a source of threat and rapidly issued an order to get rid of me, which was signed by the defence minister in just one day," he said. "The Ukrainian military has failed to break through our army's defences, but the top commander hit us in the rear, treacherously and cowardly beheading the army at this most difficult moment." "It was necessary either to keep quiet and be a coward or to say it the way it is. I had no right to lie in the name of you, in the name of my fallen comrades in arms, so I outlined all the problems which exist," he added. Also read | Russian top general sacked for questioning defence ministry’s tactics in southern Ukraine Threat issued by troops Apart from Popov, the dismissals of 106th Guards Airborne (VDV) Division Commander Major General Vladimir Seliverstov, 7th VDV Division Commander Major General Alexander Kornev and Major General Ramil Ibatullin, 90th Tank Division Commander have sullied the morale of troops fighting on the frontlines. "A prominent Kremlin-affiliated blogger claimed that Seliverstov’s dismissal was a result of similar insubordination, and Russian sources claimed that Seliverstov had a reputation for speaking up on behalf of his soldiers," the think tank noted. Watch | Russian President Putin may visit China to attend Belt & Road Summit in October With reports claiming that the Russian defence ministry was planning to arrest VDV Commander Colonel General Mikhail Teplinsky, troops in the division have threatened they would withdraw from their positions in occupied Kherson Oblast. The VDV servicemen are blackmailing the Russian MoD to ensure that Teplinsky continues to command troops in Ukraine, despite Teplinsky’s previous affiliation with Wagner Group financier Yevgeny Prigozhin. Russia's struggles Despite making decent headways in the war, Russia has struggled to maintain an effective command structure, experts argue. It is perhaps one of the reasons why Ukraine has managed to put up a defiant defence which has not been breached completely so far. Several big names have been purged while others have been quietly removed from public duty. The think tank said if the current situation persists, the morale of troops is likely to be hurt which will "degrade Russian capabilities to conduct tactical offensive operations that are critical to the Russian elastic defence in southern 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) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Putin facing increasing insubordination from troops amid chain of command crisis in military

<p>Massive explosions were reportedly heard in Crimea as a suspected Ukrainian missile attack hit an ammunition depot and forced thousands of people to evacuate from the region. Authorities in the Russian-controlled region rushed in to help people reach safe zones. Traffic from a local highway was also diverted.</p>

<p>Videos circulating on social media showed a series of explosions sending mushroom clouds into the air.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">video of the continuing detonations at the Russian ammo dump in Crimea that Ukraine apparently hit early this morning. <a href="https://t.co/ZxvAoRiP77">pic.twitter.com/ZxvAoRiP77</a></p>
— Mike Eckel (@Mike_Eckel) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mike_Eckel/status/1681614141587374080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The explosions were so loud that they could be heard from at least 13 miles away from Stary Krym in Kirorvsky district, the explosion site.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian channel Crimean Wind reported casualties and injuries among civilians, but these claims were denied by Sergey Aksyonov, the Russian-appointed head of Crimea.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine says its operation successful</strong></h2>

<p>Kyiv said that it conducted a successful operation in “occupied Crimea” shortly after the explosions rocked the region.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Kylylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine's military intelligence said in a statement: "A successful operation was conducted on occupied Crimea."</p>

<p>"The enemy conceals the extent of the damage and the number of losses in manpower," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Here's why Ukraine wasn't given a NATO membership</strong></p>

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<p>The Sun reported that some 2,250 people were evacuated from four settlements near the Starokrymsky military training ground.</p>

<p>Buses were deployed to move the people out of the area as fears loomed of more such strikes by Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>UK or French weapons used?</strong></h2>

<p>The Crimean Wind channel speculated that the attack might have been carried out by a UK-supplied Storm Shadow or the French SCALP missile, the one Paris had recently agreed to provide to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alternatively, the Ukrainian Grom-2 missile might have also been used.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Might take days to put out the fire</strong></h2>

<p>Reports indicate explosions continued at the site even after six hours after the initial explosion. &nbsp;The head of Crimea’s parliament said it might take two days to fully put out the fire, Russian media reported.</p>

<p>The explosions came as southern regions of Ukraine, including Odessa, faced a relentless assault from Russia for a second consecutive night.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-suspends-participation-in-black-sea-grain-deal-616518"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow suspends participation in Black Sea grain deal</strong></a></p>

<p>Missile and drone attacks targeted various infrastructures, including the port and military airfield in Odessa, leading to destruction and injuries among civilians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attacks on alleged drone-making facilities in Odessa were seen as a response to a previous incident on the Crimean Bridge, resulting in further escalation.</p>

<p>Ukrainian Air Force said: "The Kh-22 and Onyx missile launches were aimed at infrastructure in the Odessa region.<br />
<br />
"It was a hellish night,” said Serhiy Bratchuk, spokesman for the regional military administration.</p>

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Massive explosions were reportedly heard in Crimea as a suspected Ukrainian missile attack hit an ammunition depot and forced thousands of people to evacuate from the region.

Massive explosions were reportedly heard in Crimea as a suspected Ukrainian missile attack hit an ammunition depot and forced thousands of people to evacuate from the region. Authorities in the Russian-controlled region rushed in to help people reach safe zones. Traffic from a local highway was also diverted. Videos circulating on social media showed a series of explosions sending mushroom clouds into the air. video of the continuing detonations at the Russian ammo dump in Crimea that Ukraine apparently hit early this morning. pic.twitter.com/ZxvAoRiP77 — Mike Eckel (@Mike_Eckel) July 19, 2023 × The explosions were so loud that they could be heard from at least 13 miles away from Stary Krym in Kirorvsky district, the explosion site. The Ukrainian channel Crimean Wind reported casualties and injuries among civilians, but these claims were denied by Sergey Aksyonov, the Russian-appointed head of Crimea. Ukraine says its operation successful Kyiv said that it conducted a successful operation in “occupied Crimea” shortly after the explosions rocked the region. Kylylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine's military intelligence said in a statement: "A successful operation was conducted on occupied Crimea." "The enemy conceals the extent of the damage and the number of losses in manpower," he added. Watch: Here's why Ukraine wasn't given a NATO membership × The Sun reported that some 2,250 people were evacuated from four settlements near the Starokrymsky military training ground. Buses were deployed to move the people out of the area as fears loomed of more such strikes by Ukraine. UK or French weapons used? The Crimean Wind channel speculated that the attack might have been carried out by a UK-supplied Storm Shadow or the French SCALP missile, the one Paris had recently agreed to provide to Ukraine. Alternatively, the Ukrainian Grom-2 missile might have also been used. Might take days to put out the fire Reports indicate explosions continued at the site even after six hours after the initial explosion. The head of Crimea’s parliament said it might take two days to fully put out the fire, Russian media reported. The explosions came as southern regions of Ukraine, including Odessa, faced a relentless assault from Russia for a second consecutive night. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow suspends participation in Black Sea grain deal Missile and drone attacks targeted various infrastructures, including the port and military airfield in Odessa, leading to destruction and injuries among civilians. The attacks on alleged drone-making facilities in Odessa were seen as a response to a previous incident on the Crimean Bridge, resulting in further escalation. Ukrainian Air Force said: "The Kh-22 and Onyx missile launches were aimed at infrastructure in the Odessa region. "It was a hellish night,” said Serhiy Bratchuk, spokesman for the regional military administration. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Watch: Suspected Ukrainian strike triggers explosions in Crimea ammo depot, thousands evacuated

<p>The Ukrainian Air Force said in a statement Wednesday (July 19) that Russia had launched overnight air attacks on the Ukrainian port of Odesa. The attack comes just a day after Moscow carried out air attacks on Ukraine's south and east using drones and possibly ballistic missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday, Ukraine claimed that Russian forces launched more than 60 airstrikes on Ukraine overnight. The air force said that the Russian barrage included Kalibr, Kh-22 and Oniks cruise missiles, and Iran-made Shahed-136/131 UAVs. The statement added that Ukrainian air defences destroyed 14 cruise missiles and 23 drones.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As reported by news agency Reuters, Serhiy Bratchuk, who is the spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, said in a voice message on his Telegram channel on Wednesday that the attack was "very powerful, truly massive". He added that "it was a hellish night". Bratchuk said that details on damage and casualties would come later.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Odesa's mayor said that the Russian aerial assault was "one of the most horrible nights" of the war. Mayor Hennadii Trukhanov said on Facebook: "We do not recall such a scale of attack since the beginning of a full-scale invasion."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are getting stronger from our righteous fury! We are grateful to the air defence system. It was a fierce air battle," Trukhanov said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attack comes against the backdrop of Russia suspending its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal on Monday, just hours before it was supposed to expire. Moscow said that it will only return to the deal if its conditions are met.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The deal aimed to alleviate a global food crisis by allowing Ukrainian grain blocked because of the conflict to be exported safely. It was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey last July.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The region of Odesa remained a crucial point ever since the war started. It is home to maritime terminals that were key to the expired grain export agreement between Moscow and Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Air attacks on Kyiv</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Air defence systems were engaged in repelling the attack on Kyiv, the capital's military administration said on the Telegram channel. Air raid alerts could be heard in the capital on Wednesday morning, Reuters reported. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"A difficult night of air attacks for all of Ukraine, especially in the south, in Odesa," Serhiy Popko, head of Kyiv's city military administration, said on the Telegram channel.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Fire at military base in Crimea</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Meanwhile, on the Russian front, the Moscow-backed governor of Crimea said on Wednesday that a fire that broke out at the military training grounds in the Kirovske district on the Crimean Peninsula forced the evacuation of more than 2,000 people and the closure of a nearby highway.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Ukrainian Air Force said in a statement Wednesday (July 19) that Russia had launched overnight air attacks on the Ukrainian port of Odesa. The attack comes just a day after Moscow carried out air attacks on Ukraine's south and east using drones and possibly ballistic missiles.

The Ukrainian Air Force said in a statement Wednesday (July 19) that Russia had launched overnight air attacks on the Ukrainian port of Odesa. The attack comes just a day after Moscow carried out air attacks on Ukraine's south and east using drones and possibly ballistic missiles. On Wednesday, Ukraine claimed that Russian forces launched more than 60 airstrikes on Ukraine overnight. The air force said that the Russian barrage included Kalibr, Kh-22 and Oniks cruise missiles, and Iran-made Shahed-136/131 UAVs. The statement added that Ukrainian air defences destroyed 14 cruise missiles and 23 drones. As reported by news agency Reuters, Serhiy Bratchuk, who is the spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, said in a voice message on his Telegram channel on Wednesday that the attack was "very powerful, truly massive". He added that "it was a hellish night". Bratchuk said that details on damage and casualties would come later. Odesa's mayor said that the Russian aerial assault was "one of the most horrible nights" of the war. Mayor Hennadii Trukhanov said on Facebook: "We do not recall such a scale of attack since the beginning of a full-scale invasion." "We are getting stronger from our righteous fury! We are grateful to the air defence system. It was a fierce air battle," Trukhanov said. The attack comes against the backdrop of Russia suspending its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal on Monday, just hours before it was supposed to expire. Moscow said that it will only return to the deal if its conditions are met. The deal aimed to alleviate a global food crisis by allowing Ukrainian grain blocked because of the conflict to be exported safely. It was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey last July. The region of Odesa remained a crucial point ever since the war started. It is home to maritime terminals that were key to the expired grain export agreement between Moscow and Kyiv. Air attacks on Kyiv Air defence systems were engaged in repelling the attack on Kyiv, the capital's military administration said on the Telegram channel. Air raid alerts could be heard in the capital on Wednesday morning, Reuters reported. "A difficult night of air attacks for all of Ukraine, especially in the south, in Odesa," Serhiy Popko, head of Kyiv's city military administration, said on the Telegram channel. Fire at military base in Crimea Meanwhile, on the Russian front, the Moscow-backed governor of Crimea said on Wednesday that a fire that broke out at the military training grounds in the Kirovske district on the Crimean Peninsula forced the evacuation of more than 2,000 people and the closure of a nearby highway. (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.

'Hellish night' for Ukraine as Russia launches another air strike on Odesa

<p>Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday that Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to extend the Black Sea grain deal. The deal is going to expire next week.</p>

<p>Erdogan told reporters that he had spoken with Putin about the crucial deal.</p>

<p>Russian invasion of Ukraine had stopped Ukraine's grain exports. This had raised the spectre of a global food crisis. The Black Sea grain deal was signed after five months into the Ukraine war and has been extended several times but is again&nbsp;set to expire on Monday. Putin has repeatedly threatened that Russia would not renew it.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | US President Joe Biden: Putin has lost the war in Ukraine | Russia-Ukraine War</strong></p>

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<p>"We are preparing to welcome Putin in August and we agree on the extension of the Black Sea grain corridor," Erdogan told reporters.</p>

<p>United Nations General Secretary Antonio Guterres sent a letter to Putin this week about extension of the deal. The secretary general has supported removing hurdles to Russia exporting its fertilisers. Moscow has complained that obstacles to Russia's own exports have not been removed.</p>

<p>Erdogan said he hopes "that with this letter we will ensure the extension of the grain corridor with our joint efforts and those of Russia."</p>

<h2><strong>Not one&nbsp;condition met: Putin</strong></h2>

<p>President Putin complained on Thursday that "not one" of Moscow's conditions for the deal to function had been met.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I want to emphasise that nothing was done, nothing at all. It's all one-sided," Putin said in a televised interview, adding: "We will think about what to do, we have a few more days."</p>

<p>The deal between Russia and Ukraine was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey. The deal has till now, allowed Ukraine to ship more than 32 million tonnes of grain past Russian warships stationed in the Black Sea.</p>

<p>A large part of the grain has gone to feed people in developing countries in the African continent, West Asia and elsewhere. If the deal is not extended and the exports are blocked again, food prices can soar.</p>

<h2><strong>Advanced 2 km along front, says Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukraine said on Friday that its troops advanced nearly two kilometres along the southern front over the past week.</p>

<p>Mykola Urshalovych, a senior representative of the National Guard, told reporters that the force's 15th Karadag brigade and regular troops had moved towards the occupied southern city of Melitopol during the ongoing offensive.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-receives-delivery-of-cluster-munitions-pledges-its-constrained-use-615323">Ukraine receives delivery of cluster munitions, pledges its limited use</a></strong></p>

<p>He said that the soldiers, "supported by tanks have advanced 1700 metres to theh south and southwest"</p>

<p>He added that Ukrainian troops are moving ahead in spite of "dense" minefields and shelling.</p>

<p><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on issues surrounding&nbsp;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>&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday that Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to extend the Black Sea grain deal. The deal is going to expire next week.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday that Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to extend the Black Sea grain deal. The deal is going to expire next week. Erdogan told reporters that he had spoken with Putin about the crucial deal. Russian invasion of Ukraine had stopped Ukraine's grain exports. This had raised the spectre of a global food crisis. The Black Sea grain deal was signed after five months into the Ukraine war and has been extended several times but is again set to expire on Monday. Putin has repeatedly threatened that Russia would not renew it. Watch | US President Joe Biden: Putin has lost the war in Ukraine | Russia-Ukraine War × "We are preparing to welcome Putin in August and we agree on the extension of the Black Sea grain corridor," Erdogan told reporters. United Nations General Secretary Antonio Guterres sent a letter to Putin this week about extension of the deal. The secretary general has supported removing hurdles to Russia exporting its fertilisers. Moscow has complained that obstacles to Russia's own exports have not been removed. Erdogan said he hopes "that with this letter we will ensure the extension of the grain corridor with our joint efforts and those of Russia." Not one condition met: Putin President Putin complained on Thursday that "not one" of Moscow's conditions for the deal to function had been met. "I want to emphasise that nothing was done, nothing at all. It's all one-sided," Putin said in a televised interview, adding: "We will think about what to do, we have a few more days." The deal between Russia and Ukraine was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey. The deal has till now, allowed Ukraine to ship more than 32 million tonnes of grain past Russian warships stationed in the Black Sea. A large part of the grain has gone to feed people in developing countries in the African continent, West Asia and elsewhere. If the deal is not extended and the exports are blocked again, food prices can soar. Advanced 2 km along front, says Ukraine Meanwhile, Ukraine said on Friday that its troops advanced nearly two kilometres along the southern front over the past week. Mykola Urshalovych, a senior representative of the National Guard, told reporters that the force's 15th Karadag brigade and regular troops had moved towards the occupied southern city of Melitopol during the ongoing offensive. Also Read | Ukraine receives delivery of cluster munitions, pledges its limited use He said that the soldiers, "supported by tanks have advanced 1700 metres to theh south and southwest" He added that Ukrainian troops are moving ahead in spite of "dense" minefields and shelling. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on issues surrounding 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 ×

Putin has agreed to extend Black Sea grain deal, says Erdogan

<p>The Kremlin said on Monday (July 17) that Russia has suspended its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal, and will only return to the deal if Moscow's conditions are met.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war led to a food grain crisis globally after Moscow invaded its neighbouring nation last year in February.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The deal, brokered by the United Nations and Turkey last July, aimed to alleviate a global food crisis by allowing Ukrainian grain blocked because of the conflict to be exported safely.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The last extension was due to expire on Monday and for months, Russia had been warning that conditions for its extension had not been fulfilled.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-traffic-stopped-on-crimean-bridge-reports-of-blasts-616344">'Ukraine behind the Crimean Bridge attack' that killed at least two</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters: "In fact, the Black Sea agreements ceased to be valid today. Unfortunately, the part of these Black Sea agreements concerning Russia has not been implemented so far, so its effect is terminated."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian news agencies also reported that Moscow had notified Turkey, Ukraine and the UN that it was not extending the deal, junking it just hours after it was supposed to get expired.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Russia today officially notified the Turkish and Ukrainian sides, as well as the UN Secretariat of its objection to the extension of the deal," TASS news agency quoted foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova as saying.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-appears-half-naked-in-bizarre-photo-since-aborted-mutiny-reports-616277">Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin appears ‘half-naked’ in bizarre photo since aborted mutiny: Reports</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The news agency Reuters quoted an analyst as saying that the grain deal suspension has increased food insecurity in poorer countries.</p>

<p>Carlos Mera, who is the head of the research for agricultural commodities at Rabobank, said: ''Certainly from the Russian side, you could argue Russia will prevent some money going to Ukraine, even though most of its (Ukraine's) surplus will flow by alternative routes."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It will be inefficient and Ukraine may find unable to sell 100 per cent of its exportable surplus. And also because with prices...will, are going up Russia will benefit on that front as well," Mera added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Attack on Crimean Bridge: At least 2 killed in Kerch blasts, Moscow blames Kyiv&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Germany urges Russia to return</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Germany urged Russia to return to the crucial deal, noting that it was crucial for food security. The government spokeswoman Christiane Hoffmann told reporters that "we continue to call on Russia to allow a further extension of the grain deal" and also added that the "conflict should not be carried out on the backs of the poorest on this planet".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Kremlin said on Monday (July 17) that Russia has suspended its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal, and will only return to the deal if Moscow's conditions are met.

The Kremlin said on Monday (July 17) that Russia has suspended its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal, and will only return to the deal if Moscow's conditions are met. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war led to a food grain crisis globally after Moscow invaded its neighbouring nation last year in February. The deal, brokered by the United Nations and Turkey last July, aimed to alleviate a global food crisis by allowing Ukrainian grain blocked because of the conflict to be exported safely. The last extension was due to expire on Monday and for months, Russia had been warning that conditions for its extension had not been fulfilled. Also read: 'Ukraine behind the Crimean Bridge attack' that killed at least two Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters: "In fact, the Black Sea agreements ceased to be valid today. Unfortunately, the part of these Black Sea agreements concerning Russia has not been implemented so far, so its effect is terminated." Russian news agencies also reported that Moscow had notified Turkey, Ukraine and the UN that it was not extending the deal, junking it just hours after it was supposed to get expired. "Russia today officially notified the Turkish and Ukrainian sides, as well as the UN Secretariat of its objection to the extension of the deal," TASS news agency quoted foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova as saying. Also read: Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin appears ‘half-naked’ in bizarre photo since aborted mutiny: Reports The news agency Reuters quoted an analyst as saying that the grain deal suspension has increased food insecurity in poorer countries. Carlos Mera, who is the head of the research for agricultural commodities at Rabobank, said: ''Certainly from the Russian side, you could argue Russia will prevent some money going to Ukraine, even though most of its (Ukraine's) surplus will flow by alternative routes." "It will be inefficient and Ukraine may find unable to sell 100 per cent of its exportable surplus. And also because with prices...will, are going up Russia will benefit on that front as well," Mera added. Watch: Attack on Crimean Bridge: At least 2 killed in Kerch blasts, Moscow blames Kyiv × Germany urges Russia to return Germany urged Russia to return to the crucial deal, noting that it was crucial for food security. The government spokeswoman Christiane Hoffmann told reporters that "we continue to call on Russia to allow a further extension of the grain deal" and also added that the "conflict should not be carried out on the backs of the poorest on this planet". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow suspends participation in Black Sea grain deal

<p>Ukrainian Air Force said early on Tuesday (July 18) that Russia launched overnight air attacks on Ukraine's south and east using drones and possibly ballistic missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the Telegram messaging app, the Air Force said that the southern port of Odesa and the Mykolaiv, Donetsk, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk regions were under threat of Russian drone attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The air force also said that Russia may be using ballistic weaponry to attack the regions of Poltava, Cherkasy, Dnipropetrovsk, Kharkiv and Kirovohrad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attack comes against the backdrop of Russia suspending its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal on Monday, just hours before it was supposed to expire. Moscow said that it will only return to the deal if its conditions are met.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The deal, brokered by the United Nations and Turkey last July, aimed to alleviate a global food crisis by allowing Ukrainian grain blocked because of the conflict to be exported safely.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-heres-why-crimean-bridge-was-targeted-twice-during-russia-ukraine-war-616742">Here’s why Crimean Bridge was targeted twice during Russia-Ukraine war</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As reported by news agencies, local authorities said that Ukraine activated its aerial defences in coastal Odesa, after Russia refused to extend a deal as precautionary measures.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sergiy Bratchuk, who is the spokesman for the Odesa military region, said on Telegram: "Odesa. Air defence combat work continues."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The region of Odesa, which is the southern part of Ukraine, remained a crucial point ever since the war started. It is home to maritime terminals that were key to the expired grain export agreement between Moscow and Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Oleg Kiper, who is the head of the Odesa region's military administration, said on Telegram that Russia was "attacking the south of Ukraine with attack drones".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kiper also said air defence systems there were engaged in repelling Russian drone attacks. He claimed, "Several waves of attacks are likely" and warned residents to stay in shelters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine war enters its most cruel stage. Here's why.&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/decision-not-to-extend-black-sea-grain-deal-is-final-says-russia-616822">Black Sea grain deal expires after Russia backs out</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Attack on Crimea bridge</strong></h2>

<p>Two people from Russia's Belgorod region were killed during the "emergency" situation on the Crimean bridge on Monday. The region's governor has said on the Telegram messaging app that a mother and father died and their daughter was injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia levelled allegations on Ukraine for the attack. The claim was repeated by a Ukrainian source, who told the news AFP on Monday that the Ukrainian navy and SBU security service carried out an overnight attack. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today's attack on the Crimean bridge is a special operation of the SBU and the navy," the security service source said. The strike was carried out using waterborne drones, according to the same source.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukrainian Air Force said early on Tuesday (July 18) that Russia launched overnight air attacks on Ukraine's south and east using drones and possibly ballistic missiles.

Ukrainian Air Force said early on Tuesday (July 18) that Russia launched overnight air attacks on Ukraine's south and east using drones and possibly ballistic missiles. On the Telegram messaging app, the Air Force said that the southern port of Odesa and the Mykolaiv, Donetsk, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk regions were under threat of Russian drone attacks. The air force also said that Russia may be using ballistic weaponry to attack the regions of Poltava, Cherkasy, Dnipropetrovsk, Kharkiv and Kirovohrad. The attack comes against the backdrop of Russia suspending its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal on Monday, just hours before it was supposed to expire. Moscow said that it will only return to the deal if its conditions are met. The deal, brokered by the United Nations and Turkey last July, aimed to alleviate a global food crisis by allowing Ukrainian grain blocked because of the conflict to be exported safely. Also read: Here’s why Crimean Bridge was targeted twice during Russia-Ukraine war As reported by news agencies, local authorities said that Ukraine activated its aerial defences in coastal Odesa, after Russia refused to extend a deal as precautionary measures. Sergiy Bratchuk, who is the spokesman for the Odesa military region, said on Telegram: "Odesa. Air defence combat work continues." The region of Odesa, which is the southern part of Ukraine, remained a crucial point ever since the war started. It is home to maritime terminals that were key to the expired grain export agreement between Moscow and Kyiv. Oleg Kiper, who is the head of the Odesa region's military administration, said on Telegram that Russia was "attacking the south of Ukraine with attack drones". Kiper also said air defence systems there were engaged in repelling Russian drone attacks. He claimed, "Several waves of attacks are likely" and warned residents to stay in shelters. Watch: Ukraine war enters its most cruel stage. Here's why. × Also read: Black Sea grain deal expires after Russia backs out Attack on Crimea bridge Two people from Russia's Belgorod region were killed during the "emergency" situation on the Crimean bridge on Monday. The region's governor has said on the Telegram messaging app that a mother and father died and their daughter was injured. Russia levelled allegations on Ukraine for the attack. The claim was repeated by a Ukrainian source, who told the news AFP on Monday that the Ukrainian navy and SBU security service carried out an overnight attack. "Today's attack on the Crimean bridge is a special operation of the SBU and the navy," the security service source said. The strike was carried out using waterborne drones, according to the same source. (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.

Air attacks on Ukraine: Russia possibly using ballistic missiles, says Kyiv

<p>At least two people from Russia's Belgorod region were killed during the "emergency" situation on the Crimean bridge on Monday (July 17). The region's governor has said on the Telegram messaging app that a mother and father died and their daughter was injured. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia blamed Ukraine for the attack. The claim was repeated by a Ukrainian source, who told the news AFP on Monday that the Ukrainian navy and SBU security service carried out an overnight attack. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today's attack on the Crimean bridge is a special operation of the SBU and the navy," the security service source said. The strike was carried out using waterborne drones, according to the same source.</p>

<p>Traffic was halted on Russia's Crimean Bridge. Vyacheslav Gladkov wrote, "This morning we all started with information about the emergency that happened on the Crimean bridge. We all saw a video on the internet of a damaged car with Belgorod number plates."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The girl was injured, moderately injured… The hardest thing is that her parents died, dad and mom," Gladkov added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-appears-half-naked-in-bizarre-photo-since-aborted-mutiny-reports-616277">Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin appears ‘half-naked’ in bizarre photo since aborted mutiny: Reports</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Previously, Crimea governor Sergey Aksyonov wrote on Telegram: "Traffic was stopped on the Crimean bridge: an emergency occurred in the area of the 145th pillar from the Krasnodar Territory."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "Law enforcement agencies and all relevant services are working... measures are being taken to handle the situation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia's TASS news agency cited a regional official as saying that the Crimean authorities "will provide all the necessary support to tourists in connection with the stopping of traffic on the Crimean bridge".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia's Ministry of Transport confirmed that the road on the Crimean side of the bridge has been damaged. However, it is not confirmed whether or not the bridge's supporting pillars have been damaged.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Unverified images have been circulating on social media. The pictures show the damage done to the bridge.&nbsp;</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">Morning in Ukraine. Something happened to the Crimean bridge. <a href="https://t.co/EbTo8JNS4H">pic.twitter.com/EbTo8JNS4H</a></p>
— Ostap Yarysh (@OstapYarysh) <a href="https://twitter.com/OstapYarysh/status/1680810806680666112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Last year's attack</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The bridge was damaged in a powerful blast last October, with Russian President Vladimir Putin branding it as a "terrorist attack" orchestrated by Ukrainian security services.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the aftermath, Putin ordered a wave of retaliatory strikes on Ukrainian cities including the capital Kyiv. But Ukraine has denied being behind the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian officials had said that the explosion was caused by a truck that blew up while crossing the bridge, killing three people.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Kremlin says main goal of Black Sea Grain deal has not been met&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-russia-conducted-record-high-number-of-military-drills-in-2022-report-616313">China, Russia conducted record-high number of military drills in 2022</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Why is Crimean Bridge important?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Crimea Bridge (also known as the Kerch Bridge or Kerch Strait Bridge) is very crucial for Russia as it is the only direct link between the transport network of Russia and the Crimean peninsula, which Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bridge is also crucial for the supply of fuel, food and other products to Crimea, where the port of Sevastopol is the historic home base of Russia's Black Sea Fleet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian news agency Tass has reported citing Elena Elekchyan, acting minister of industrial policy in Crimea that the region has stockpiles of fuel, food and industrial goods.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The news agency also mentioned that a ferry service linking Crimea with Kuban, in the Russian region of Krasnodar, has also been halted.&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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At least two people from Russia's Belgorod region were killed during the "emergency" situation on the Crimean bridge on Monday (July 17). The region's governor has said on the Telegram messaging app that a mother and father died and their daughter was injured.

At least two people from Russia's Belgorod region were killed during the "emergency" situation on the Crimean bridge on Monday (July 17). The region's governor has said on the Telegram messaging app that a mother and father died and their daughter was injured. Russia blamed Ukraine for the attack. The claim was repeated by a Ukrainian source, who told the news AFP on Monday that the Ukrainian navy and SBU security service carried out an overnight attack. "Today's attack on the Crimean bridge is a special operation of the SBU and the navy," the security service source said. The strike was carried out using waterborne drones, according to the same source. Traffic was halted on Russia's Crimean Bridge. Vyacheslav Gladkov wrote, "This morning we all started with information about the emergency that happened on the Crimean bridge. We all saw a video on the internet of a damaged car with Belgorod number plates." "The girl was injured, moderately injured… The hardest thing is that her parents died, dad and mom," Gladkov added. Also read: Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin appears ‘half-naked’ in bizarre photo since aborted mutiny: Reports Previously, Crimea governor Sergey Aksyonov wrote on Telegram: "Traffic was stopped on the Crimean bridge: an emergency occurred in the area of the 145th pillar from the Krasnodar Territory." He added, "Law enforcement agencies and all relevant services are working... measures are being taken to handle the situation." Russia's TASS news agency cited a regional official as saying that the Crimean authorities "will provide all the necessary support to tourists in connection with the stopping of traffic on the Crimean bridge". Russia's Ministry of Transport confirmed that the road on the Crimean side of the bridge has been damaged. However, it is not confirmed whether or not the bridge's supporting pillars have been damaged. Unverified images have been circulating on social media. The pictures show the damage done to the bridge. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Morning in Ukraine. Something happened to the Crimean bridge. pic.twitter.com/EbTo8JNS4H — Ostap Yarysh (@OstapYarysh) July 17, 2023 × Last year's attack The bridge was damaged in a powerful blast last October, with Russian President Vladimir Putin branding it as a "terrorist attack" orchestrated by Ukrainian security services. In the aftermath, Putin ordered a wave of retaliatory strikes on Ukrainian cities including the capital Kyiv. But Ukraine has denied being behind the attack. Russian officials had said that the explosion was caused by a truck that blew up while crossing the bridge, killing three people. Watch: Kremlin says main goal of Black Sea Grain deal has not been met × Also read: China, Russia conducted record-high number of military drills in 2022 Why is Crimean Bridge important? Crimea Bridge (also known as the Kerch Bridge or Kerch Strait Bridge) is very crucial for Russia as it is the only direct link between the transport network of Russia and the Crimean peninsula, which Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014. The bridge is also crucial for the supply of fuel, food and other products to Crimea, where the port of Sevastopol is the historic home base of Russia's Black Sea Fleet. Russian news agency Tass has reported citing Elena Elekchyan, acting minister of industrial policy in Crimea that the region has stockpiles of fuel, food and industrial goods. The news agency also mentioned that a ferry service linking Crimea with Kuban, in the Russian region of Krasnodar, has also been halted. 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.

Crimean Bridge: 'Ukraine behind the attack' that killed at least two

<p>The remains of a Russian soldier were exhumed by a Ukrainian search unit in an eastern Donetsk village on Saturday (July 15). They said that the soldier was killed in combat months ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ever since the Russia-Ukraine war started, the search unit named 'Platsdarm' has been working in the eastern part of the country to retrieve both civilian and military remains from the battlefield.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Oleksii Yukov, who is the head of the search unit, said as quoted by the news agency Reuters that they had found the 445th Russian soldier near Dolyna.&nbsp;</p>

<p>That particular region was on the frontline until Ukraine regained parts of the Donetsk region in September last year. Yukov told the news agency that the Ukrainian military had flagged former Russian military positions to his team.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-traffic-stopped-on-crimean-bridge-reports-of-blasts-616344">Crimean Bridge: At least two killed during 'emergency' situation, Ukraine reports of blasts</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As translated by Reuters, Yukov said, "This is the 445th body (of a Russian soldier in east Ukraine). And imagine how many of their (Russian) families they have destroyed and how many of our people (Ukrainians) they have destroyed."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is the madness they brought along (when invading Ukraine). They have no life, and we have no life. This is crazy, just crazy. And just like that, these Russian boys are lying here on foreign land, nobody needs them except for their relatives and friends, because, I think, the state doesn’t really need them there. Nobody, no problem," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "Their relatives might also care about them. Therefore, you need to understand that our boys are also lying somewhere, and we are coming back for them anyway. If we do not come back, then at least we will get them in exchange so that they (Russians) see that we treat the dead like human beings and want the same attitude towards the dead from the other side. Because if we treat the dead badly, then we as humanity have failed."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-appears-half-naked-in-bizarre-photo-since-aborted-mutiny-reports-616277">Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin appears ‘half-naked’ in bizarre photo since aborted mutiny: Reports</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Russian army identification mark</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>He also said that the team believes that a Russian army identification mark discovered among the remains indicates that the remains are most likely those of a Russian soldier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Yukov, a Russian token of their armed forces with a number was discovered which acted as it's called a personal identification mark.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This identity will already be established and during the exchange for Ukrainian dead it will help us a lot with the information that will be provided by the Russian side regarding this person," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the course of the war, Ukraine and Russia have staged regular prisoner exchanges, sometimes exchanging soldiers' corpses.&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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The remains of a Russian soldier were exhumed by a Ukrainian search unit in an eastern Donetsk village on Saturday (July 15). They said that the soldier was killed in combat months ago.

The remains of a Russian soldier were exhumed by a Ukrainian search unit in an eastern Donetsk village on Saturday (July 15). They said that the soldier was killed in combat months ago. Ever since the Russia-Ukraine war started, the search unit named 'Platsdarm' has been working in the eastern part of the country to retrieve both civilian and military remains from the battlefield. Oleksii Yukov, who is the head of the search unit, said as quoted by the news agency Reuters that they had found the 445th Russian soldier near Dolyna. That particular region was on the frontline until Ukraine regained parts of the Donetsk region in September last year. Yukov told the news agency that the Ukrainian military had flagged former Russian military positions to his team. Also read: Crimean Bridge: At least two killed during 'emergency' situation, Ukraine reports of blasts As translated by Reuters, Yukov said, "This is the 445th body (of a Russian soldier in east Ukraine). And imagine how many of their (Russian) families they have destroyed and how many of our people (Ukrainians) they have destroyed." "This is the madness they brought along (when invading Ukraine). They have no life, and we have no life. This is crazy, just crazy. And just like that, these Russian boys are lying here on foreign land, nobody needs them except for their relatives and friends, because, I think, the state doesn’t really need them there. Nobody, no problem," he added. He said, "Their relatives might also care about them. Therefore, you need to understand that our boys are also lying somewhere, and we are coming back for them anyway. If we do not come back, then at least we will get them in exchange so that they (Russians) see that we treat the dead like human beings and want the same attitude towards the dead from the other side. Because if we treat the dead badly, then we as humanity have failed." Also read: Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin appears ‘half-naked’ in bizarre photo since aborted mutiny: Reports Russian army identification mark He also said that the team believes that a Russian army identification mark discovered among the remains indicates that the remains are most likely those of a Russian soldier. According to Yukov, a Russian token of their armed forces with a number was discovered which acted as it's called a personal identification mark. "This identity will already be established and during the exchange for Ukrainian dead it will help us a lot with the information that will be provided by the Russian side regarding this person," he said. During the course of the war, Ukraine and Russia have staged regular prisoner exchanges, sometimes exchanging soldiers' corpses. 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.

Ukrainian search unit exhumes remains of Russian soldier in Donetsk

<p>South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, on Saturday (July 15) made an unannounced visit to Ukraine for a meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky and pledged additional military supplies and humanitarian aid to the war-torn country. Yoon also visited the Ukrainian cities of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bucha-killings-are-fake-propaganda-says-putins-ally-dmitry-medvedev-468582">Bucha</a> and Irpin.</p>

<h2><strong>South Korean president’s sudden visit</strong></h2>

<p>According to the South Korean president’s office, the visit before a summit with Zelensky was an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-president-yeol-makes-sudden-ukraine-visit-to-meet-zelensky-615960">unannounced one</a>. “The president first toured the Bucha city massacre site near the capital Kyiv and the city of Irpin, where missile attacks were concentrated on civilian residential areas,” said his office. &nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “President Yoon will visit a memorial for the war dead to lay a wreath, and hold a summit meeting with President Zelensky.” The surprise visit comes after Yoon attended the NATO summit in Lithuania and visited Poland this week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The visit is seen as significant as very few Asian leaders have visited Ukraine, said the Korea chair at the Brussels School of Governance research organisation, Ramon Pacheco.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“If he’s going it’s because Zelensky allowed him to go, because he feels Korea is doing enough to warrant it,” said Pardo, as quoted by Reuters, adding that it might suggest that South Korea might be offering more support behind the scenes.</p>

<p>It remains to be seen if the visit will change South Korea’s long-standing policy of not giving weapons to zones which are involved in conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A United States ally and the world’s 9th biggest arms exporter, as per the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), South Korea due to its policies has only provided Ukraine with aid and non-lethal military supplies but no weapons.</p>

<h2><strong>Yoon pledges more aid, </strong>to help with reconstruction</h2>

<p>South Korea plans to provide "a larger scale of military supplies" to Ukraine this year. Notably, last year Seoul&nbsp;provided materials such as helmets and bullet-proof vests. South Korea will also increase humanitarian aid to Kyiv from $100 million last year to $150 million, in 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It will also help rebuild Ukraine by cooperating with Kyiv on infrastructure construction backed by concessionary loans. Yoon also spoke about how Seoul has supplied safety equipment and humanitarian aid that Ukraine needs, since two months ago, including mine detectors.</p>

<p>South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, in a statement, on Friday said South Korean companies and entities in Ukraine and in other countries signed agreements to help with reconstruction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Zelensky thanked Yoon for “the meaningful talks” and “strong support”. The Ukrainian president spoke about how the two leaders discussed “everything that is important for the normal and safe life of people".</p>

<p>He also thanked the South Korean president “for your new initiatives to provide financial, technical and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine” without going into detail.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, on Saturday (July 15) made an unannounced visit to Ukraine for a meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky and pledged additional military supplies and humanitarian aid to the war-torn country.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, on Saturday (July 15) made an unannounced visit to Ukraine for a meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky and pledged additional military supplies and humanitarian aid to the war-torn country. Yoon also visited the Ukrainian cities of Bucha and Irpin. South Korean president’s sudden visit According to the South Korean president’s office, the visit before a summit with Zelensky was an unannounced one. “The president first toured the Bucha city massacre site near the capital Kyiv and the city of Irpin, where missile attacks were concentrated on civilian residential areas,” said his office. It added, “President Yoon will visit a memorial for the war dead to lay a wreath, and hold a summit meeting with President Zelensky.” The surprise visit comes after Yoon attended the NATO summit in Lithuania and visited Poland this week. The visit is seen as significant as very few Asian leaders have visited Ukraine, said the Korea chair at the Brussels School of Governance research organisation, Ramon Pacheco. “If he’s going it’s because Zelensky allowed him to go, because he feels Korea is doing enough to warrant it,” said Pardo, as quoted by Reuters, adding that it might suggest that South Korea might be offering more support behind the scenes. It remains to be seen if the visit will change South Korea’s long-standing policy of not giving weapons to zones which are involved in conflict. A United States ally and the world’s 9th biggest arms exporter, as per the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), South Korea due to its policies has only provided Ukraine with aid and non-lethal military supplies but no weapons. Yoon pledges more aid, to help with reconstruction South Korea plans to provide "a larger scale of military supplies" to Ukraine this year. Notably, last year Seoul provided materials such as helmets and bullet-proof vests. South Korea will also increase humanitarian aid to Kyiv from $100 million last year to $150 million, in 2023. It will also help rebuild Ukraine by cooperating with Kyiv on infrastructure construction backed by concessionary loans. Yoon also spoke about how Seoul has supplied safety equipment and humanitarian aid that Ukraine needs, since two months ago, including mine detectors. South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, in a statement, on Friday said South Korean companies and entities in Ukraine and in other countries signed agreements to help with reconstruction. Meanwhile, Zelensky thanked Yoon for “the meaningful talks” and “strong support”. The Ukrainian president spoke about how the two leaders discussed “everything that is important for the normal and safe life of people". He also thanked the South Korean president “for your new initiatives to provide financial, technical and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine” without going into detail. (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.

South Korea to provide 'larger scale of military supplies', aid to Ukraine

<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>Russia on Sunday thwarted Ukraine’s aerial assault on the Crimean port of Sevastopol, reported Reuters citing a Russia-installed official. Russian air defence forces shot down nine Ukrainian drones near the Black Sea region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Russia-appointed Governor of Sevastopol, wrote on Telegram that no object, either in the city or on the water, was damaged in the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Two aerial drones were shot down over the sea, five were intercepted by Russia's electronic warfare forces and two water surface drones were destroyed on the outer shore,” he was quoted as saying by Reuters.</p>

<p>The attacks were over the harbour of Sevastopol and the city's Balaklava, Khersones districts, Razvozhayev said earlier.</p>

<p>The drone attack prompted the authorities to shut down the passenger ferry service along with all other modes of maritime transport in the area.</p>

<h2><strong>Conflict intensifies in the South</strong></h2>

<p>CNN reported heavy fighting from the southern front, where Kyiv is hoping to break Russia’s land bridge to Crimea. However, military analysts were unable to confirm whether or not Ukraine had an upper edge against invading&nbsp;Russian forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Military analyst Rob Lee was quoted by CNN as saying, “Both sides are taking attrition right now … but it is not clear which side can sustain it better.”</p>

<p>“On the Russian side, if they take enough losses and Ukraine can isolate parts of the front, (then Ukrainian forces) may be able to achieve a breakthrough. On the flip side, if Ukraine keeps taking losses and more attrition, the offensive might culminate too soon,” he added.</p>

<p>Ukraine has so far failed to get a significant number of towns and villages liberated from Russian control in the South under its so-called counteroffensive operation.</p>

<h2><strong>Western partners not impatient: Kyiv</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Kyiv has said its Western partners were not pressing its defence forces for immediate positive results. The Ukrainian counteroffensive began in June but has failed to yield the expected results.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Budget drones in Ukraine are redefining warfare</strong></p>

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<p>Andriy Yermak, a key adviser to Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, told journalists Friday he accepted the counteroffensive is “not going that fast; it is slow.”</p>

<h2><strong>NATO promises more support to Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>NATO nations last week in Lithuania agreed to further bolster Ukraine’s defences. The United States has provided cluster munitions to Ukrainian forces and is currently contemplating the dispatch of Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMs), guided missiles capable of reaching distances up to 300 kilometres (approximately 186 miles).</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-fighters-reached-belarus-confirm-ukraine-poland-616171"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Wagner fighters reached Belarus, confirm Ukraine, Poland&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p>Additionally, France and the United Kingdom have either already delivered or committed to supplying Ukraine with long-range missiles.</p>

<p>During a press conference on July 14, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also announced that Germany will offer Ukraine a total of $19 billion or 17 billion euros in arms shipments until 2027.</p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russia on Sunday thwarted Ukraine’s aerial assault on the Crimean port of Sevastopol, reported Reuters citing a Russia-installed official. Russian air defence forces shot down nine Ukrainian drones near the Black Sea region. Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Russia-appointed Governor of Sevastopol, wrote on Telegram that no object, either in the city or on the water, was damaged in the attack. “Two aerial drones were shot down over the sea, five were intercepted by Russia's electronic warfare forces and two water surface drones were destroyed on the outer shore,” he was quoted as saying by Reuters. The attacks were over the harbour of Sevastopol and the city's Balaklava, Khersones districts, Razvozhayev said earlier. The drone attack prompted the authorities to shut down the passenger ferry service along with all other modes of maritime transport in the area. Conflict intensifies in the South CNN reported heavy fighting from the southern front, where Kyiv is hoping to break Russia’s land bridge to Crimea. However, military analysts were unable to confirm whether or not Ukraine had an upper edge against invading Russian forces. Military analyst Rob Lee was quoted by CNN as saying, “Both sides are taking attrition right now … but it is not clear which side can sustain it better.” “On the Russian side, if they take enough losses and Ukraine can isolate parts of the front, (then Ukrainian forces) may be able to achieve a breakthrough. On the flip side, if Ukraine keeps taking losses and more attrition, the offensive might culminate too soon,” he added. Ukraine has so far failed to get a significant number of towns and villages liberated from Russian control in the South under its so-called counteroffensive operation. Western partners not impatient: Kyiv Meanwhile, Kyiv has said its Western partners were not pressing its defence forces for immediate positive results. The Ukrainian counteroffensive began in June but has failed to yield the expected results. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Budget drones in Ukraine are redefining warfare × Andriy Yermak, a key adviser to Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, told journalists Friday he accepted the counteroffensive is “not going that fast; it is slow.” NATO promises more support to Ukraine NATO nations last week in Lithuania agreed to further bolster Ukraine’s defences. The United States has provided cluster munitions to Ukrainian forces and is currently contemplating the dispatch of Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMs), guided missiles capable of reaching distances up to 300 kilometres (approximately 186 miles). Also read: Wagner fighters reached Belarus, confirm Ukraine, Poland Additionally, France and the United Kingdom have either already delivered or committed to supplying Ukraine with long-range missiles. During a press conference on July 14, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also announced that Germany will offer Ukraine a total of $19 billion or 17 billion euros in arms shipments until 2027. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia reportedly thwarts Ukrainian drone strikes in Crimea, conflict intensifies in South

Over the last year, many countries have supplied lethal weapons to Ukraine so that it can fend off Russian attacks. One of them is France. And now, France has decided to deliver cruise missiles to Ukraine. Here's more.

How countries are improving defence technologies?

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that Russia has been putting all its resources into a campaign which is aimed at halting Kyiv's troops from taking forth the counter-offensive. The statement came at a time when the top general reported about Kyiv's new progress on the southern front.<br />
<br />
However, Ukrainian military analysts have stated that things have been difficult for Ukrainian forces as they make efforts to advance southward.<br />
<br />
A counter-offensive was launched by Ukraine to re-capture swathes of land in southern and eastern Ukraine which were earlier captured by Russian forces after they invaded Kyiv in February 2022.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-it-advanced-nearly-2-km-on-southern-front-this-week-downed-16-drone-attacks-overnight-615689">Ukraine says it advanced nearly 2 km on southern front this week; downed 16 drones overnight</a></p>

<p>The counter-offensive has been aiming at capturing villages in the southeast as part of the drive towards areas near the eastern city of Bakhmut and the Sea of Azov, which were captured in May by Russian forces after months of battles.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, Russia has claimed that its forces have repelled attacks by Ukrainian forces in the eastern Donetsk region, which includes regions around Bakhmut.<br />
<br />
"We must all understand very clearly, as clearly as possible, that Russian forces in our southern and eastern lands are doing everything they can in order to stop our soldiers," said Zelensky in his nightly video address, after he held a meeting with top commanders on Friday. "And every thousand metres we advance, every success of every combat brigade deserves our gratitude,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Russian forces claim to repel 16 Ukrainian attacks</strong></h2>

<p>After the meeting, Commander of Ukrainian forces in the south General Oleksander Tarnavskyi said that his troops were "systematically moving the enemy out of their positions". Taking to Telegram, he wrote that in the past 24 hours, enemy losses were equivalent to at least 200.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia's Wagner mercenary group trains soldiers in Belarus</strong></p>

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<p>"In the south, the situation is very difficult in advancing towards Berdiansk," said military analyst Serhiy Hrabskyi, while referring to a port on the Sea of Azov in his talks with Ukrainian NV radio. Ukrainian forces have been aiming to cut off a land bridge which was established by Russian forces with the annexed Crimean peninsula.<br />
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"They are moving on the village of Robotyne. The enemy is offering resistance to stop our advance southward,” he added. In its daily report, the defence ministry of Russia stated that 16 Ukrainian attacks were repelled by the forces in the eastern front which included near the long-contested town of Maryinka and in Klishchiivka, a strategic village on southern fringe of Bakhmut.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that Russia has been putting all its resources into a campaign which is aimed at halting Kyiv's troops from taking forth the counter-offensive.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that Russia has been putting all its resources into a campaign which is aimed at halting Kyiv's troops from taking forth the counter-offensive. The statement came at a time when the top general reported about Kyiv's new progress on the southern front. However, Ukrainian military analysts have stated that things have been difficult for Ukrainian forces as they make efforts to advance southward. A counter-offensive was launched by Ukraine to re-capture swathes of land in southern and eastern Ukraine which were earlier captured by Russian forces after they invaded Kyiv in February 2022. ALSO READ | Ukraine says it advanced nearly 2 km on southern front this week; downed 16 drones overnight The counter-offensive has been aiming at capturing villages in the southeast as part of the drive towards areas near the eastern city of Bakhmut and the Sea of Azov, which were captured in May by Russian forces after months of battles. Meanwhile, Russia has claimed that its forces have repelled attacks by Ukrainian forces in the eastern Donetsk region, which includes regions around Bakhmut. "We must all understand very clearly, as clearly as possible, that Russian forces in our southern and eastern lands are doing everything they can in order to stop our soldiers," said Zelensky in his nightly video address, after he held a meeting with top commanders on Friday. "And every thousand metres we advance, every success of every combat brigade deserves our gratitude,” he added. Russian forces claim to repel 16 Ukrainian attacks After the meeting, Commander of Ukrainian forces in the south General Oleksander Tarnavskyi said that his troops were "systematically moving the enemy out of their positions". Taking to Telegram, he wrote that in the past 24 hours, enemy losses were equivalent to at least 200. WATCH | Russia's Wagner mercenary group trains soldiers in Belarus "In the south, the situation is very difficult in advancing towards Berdiansk," said military analyst Serhiy Hrabskyi, while referring to a port on the Sea of Azov in his talks with Ukrainian NV radio. Ukrainian forces have been aiming to cut off a land bridge which was established by Russian forces with the annexed Crimean peninsula. "They are moving on the village of Robotyne. The enemy is offering resistance to stop our advance southward,” he added. In its daily report, the defence ministry of Russia stated that 16 Ukrainian attacks were repelled by the forces in the eastern front which included near the long-contested town of Maryinka and in Klishchiivka, a strategic village on southern fringe of Bakhmut. (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 throwing all its resources to halt Ukraine's troops on counteroffensive, says Zelensky

<p>Officials in Kyiv, on Friday (July 14), claimed to have advanced nearly two kilometres along the southern front over the past week amid the Ukrainian counteroffensive to recapture&nbsp;its territory occupied by Russia, reported AFP. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian air force said that they downed 16 Iranian-made drones launched by Russia overnight.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine acknowledges troops not advancing fast enough</strong></h2>

<p>The Ukrainian&nbsp;head of the presidency, Andriy Yermak, on Friday, conceded that the troops are not making a&nbsp;speedy headway in their&nbsp;counteroffensive to recapture&nbsp;territory in the east and south. "Today it's advancing not so quickly," said&nbsp;Yermak, adding that the battles have been difficult.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If we are going to see that something is going wrong, we'll say so. No one is going to embellish," the Kyiv official&nbsp;told reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian gains on the southern front</strong></h2>

<p>During a press conference, Mykola Urshalovych, a senior representative of the National Guard said that the 15th Karadag brigade and regular troops “supported by tanks, have advanced 1,700 metres to the south and southeast,” of the occupied southern city of Melitopol amid the ongoing offensive, over the past seven days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian troops have moved forward despite “dense” minefields and shelling, he added. According to Urshalovych, National Guard troops continue to maintain their positions in the port city of Berdyansk in the Zaporizhzhia region, “under constant enemy fire”.</p>

<p>The National Guard senior official also said that their troops are preparing to expand an offensive in the Avdiivka sector in eastern Ukraine. This comes days after the Ukrainian military said, on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-re-capture-of-14-square-kilometre-territory-within-a-week-613836">July 10</a>, it had recaptured 14 square kilometres from Russian forces in the south and east of the country over the last week.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine downs 16 drones in&nbsp;overnight attacks</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement online, the Ukrainian air force, on Friday, said that it downed 16 out of the 17 Iranian-made drones launched by Russian forces overnight, in a reported consecutive night of aerial attacks by Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The Russians attacked Ukraine with 17 Iranian-made Shahed-136/131 attack drones from the south east direction. As a result of military operations...16 Shaheds were destroyed,” said the Ukrainian air force.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine jails man for Russian plot to blow up arms transport routes</strong></h2>

<p>The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said that a Ukrainian court, on Friday, jailed a man for 10 years after finding him guilty of plotting with Russia to blow up transport infrastructure to disrupt foreign arms supplies. The man, who was not identified, is said to have been fighting for the Russia-backed militant groups in eastern Ukraine even before Moscow began its “special military operation,” over a year ago.</p>

<p>According to Ukraine’s domestic security agency, he was tasked with blowing up two infrastructure objects by Russian military intelligence but had been detained back in February before he was able to carry out the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the exact location of where the supposed attack was not mentioned, the targets were said to have been in the Rivne region in western Ukraine which is home to several important road and railway links with NATO member and Kyiv supporter, Poland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The routes in question are kept a secret in Ukraine but the equipment is often seen passing through the eastern part of the country. This comes as Western military support is seen as vital for Ukraine to fight Russian forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<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><br />
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Officials in Kyiv, on Friday (July 14), claimed to have advanced nearly two kilometres along the southern front over the past week amid the Ukrainian counteroffensive to recapture its territory occupied by Russia, reported AFP.

Officials in Kyiv, on Friday (July 14), claimed to have advanced nearly two kilometres along the southern front over the past week amid the Ukrainian counteroffensive to recapture its territory occupied by Russia, reported AFP. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian air force said that they downed 16 Iranian-made drones launched by Russia overnight. Ukraine acknowledges troops not advancing fast enough The Ukrainian head of the presidency, Andriy Yermak, on Friday, conceded that the troops are not making a speedy headway in their counteroffensive to recapture territory in the east and south. "Today it's advancing not so quickly," said Yermak, adding that the battles have been difficult. "If we are going to see that something is going wrong, we'll say so. No one is going to embellish," the Kyiv official told reporters. Ukrainian gains on the southern front During a press conference, Mykola Urshalovych, a senior representative of the National Guard said that the 15th Karadag brigade and regular troops “supported by tanks, have advanced 1,700 metres to the south and southeast,” of the occupied southern city of Melitopol amid the ongoing offensive, over the past seven days. Ukrainian troops have moved forward despite “dense” minefields and shelling, he added. According to Urshalovych, National Guard troops continue to maintain their positions in the port city of Berdyansk in the Zaporizhzhia region, “under constant enemy fire”. The National Guard senior official also said that their troops are preparing to expand an offensive in the Avdiivka sector in eastern Ukraine. This comes days after the Ukrainian military said, on July 10, it had recaptured 14 square kilometres from Russian forces in the south and east of the country over the last week. Ukraine downs 16 drones in overnight attacks In a statement online, the Ukrainian air force, on Friday, said that it downed 16 out of the 17 Iranian-made drones launched by Russian forces overnight, in a reported consecutive night of aerial attacks by Moscow. “The Russians attacked Ukraine with 17 Iranian-made Shahed-136/131 attack drones from the south east direction. As a result of military operations...16 Shaheds were destroyed,” said the Ukrainian air force. Ukraine jails man for Russian plot to blow up arms transport routes The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said that a Ukrainian court, on Friday, jailed a man for 10 years after finding him guilty of plotting with Russia to blow up transport infrastructure to disrupt foreign arms supplies. The man, who was not identified, is said to have been fighting for the Russia-backed militant groups in eastern Ukraine even before Moscow began its “special military operation,” over a year ago. According to Ukraine’s domestic security agency, he was tasked with blowing up two infrastructure objects by Russian military intelligence but had been detained back in February before he was able to carry out the attack. While the exact location of where the supposed attack was not mentioned, the targets were said to have been in the Rivne region in western Ukraine which is home to several important road and railway links with NATO member and Kyiv supporter, Poland. The routes in question are kept a secret in Ukraine but the equipment is often seen passing through the eastern part of the country. This comes as Western military support is seen as vital for Ukraine to fight Russian forces. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION 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 says it advanced nearly 2 km on southern front this week; downed 16 drones overnight

<p>Casting doubt over a proposal to supply Ukraine with retired fighter jets, Australia on Thursday said the matter was “complicated".&nbsp;Kyiv earlier requested dozens of retired F-18 fighter jets from Canberra, saying it would significantly boost its air power against the Russian forces.</p>

<p>Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles said the discussions around the F-18 fighter jets were “going on”, but added they were much more difficult than any other form of military support.</p>

<h2><strong>‘We need to be practical’</strong></h2>

<p>While Australia on Wednesday ramped up its support for Ukraine on the sidelines of the NATO summit which concluded in Lithuania, it stopped short of making any promise on fighter jets. Australia announced that it will send an additional fleet of 30 armoured Bushmaster infantry vehicles at a cost of US$67 million to the war-battered nation.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Will Ukraine ever join the alliance?</strong></p>

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<p>However, the country’s defence minister added that sending aircraft “becomes a much more complicated question."</p>

<p>"The situation around aircraft is pretty complicated, but we will keep having the conversation with Ukraine around that. What we give, and what we do, needs to be practical and needs to make a difference," said Richard Marles.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine requested aircraft in June</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine is setting its eyes on the Royal Australian Air Force's fleet of 71 F-18s that was retired from service between 2019 and 2021. According to military experts, around 40 retired fighter jets are currently sitting in storage; however, it was not clear how many of them were operational.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-to-offer-security-commitments-to-ukraine-after-slow-progress-on-its-nato-induction-614673"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;West to offer long-term security commitments to Ukraine after slow progress on its NATO induction</strong></a></p>

<p>Ukraine in June requested Australia to provide some of those fighter jets to help its counteroffensive against Russia. Ukraine's ambassador to Australia, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, said in June, “There has been a request for information. Ukraine is looking at fighter jet capabilities, including this one."</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine’s current aerial firepower</strong></h2>

<p>According to the International Institute for Strategic Studies' Military Balance publication, Ukraine currently possesses around 82 fighter and attack jets. Sending these aircraft to Ukraine would involve significant diplomatic and logistical negotiations, making a swift agreement unlikely.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Australia recently revealed its plan to deploy an E-7A Wedgetail surveillance plane to Germany temporarily. The aircraft will be stationed there for six months and will be responsible for monitoring supply routes that connect to Ukraine.</p>

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Casting doubt over a proposal to supply Ukraine with retired fighter jets, Australia on Thursday said the matter was “complicated". Kyiv earlier requested dozens of retired F-18 fighter jets from Canberra, saying it would significantly boost its air power against the Russian forces.

Casting doubt over a proposal to supply Ukraine with retired fighter jets, Australia on Thursday said the matter was “complicated". Kyiv earlier requested dozens of retired F-18 fighter jets from Canberra, saying it would significantly boost its air power against the Russian forces. Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles said the discussions around the F-18 fighter jets were “going on”, but added they were much more difficult than any other form of military support. ‘We need to be practical’ While Australia on Wednesday ramped up its support for Ukraine on the sidelines of the NATO summit which concluded in Lithuania, it stopped short of making any promise on fighter jets. Australia announced that it will send an additional fleet of 30 armoured Bushmaster infantry vehicles at a cost of US$67 million to the war-battered nation. Watch: Will Ukraine ever join the alliance? × However, the country’s defence minister added that sending aircraft “becomes a much more complicated question." "The situation around aircraft is pretty complicated, but we will keep having the conversation with Ukraine around that. What we give, and what we do, needs to be practical and needs to make a difference," said Richard Marles. Ukraine requested aircraft in June Ukraine is setting its eyes on the Royal Australian Air Force's fleet of 71 F-18s that was retired from service between 2019 and 2021. According to military experts, around 40 retired fighter jets are currently sitting in storage; however, it was not clear how many of them were operational. Also read: West to offer long-term security commitments to Ukraine after slow progress on its NATO induction Ukraine in June requested Australia to provide some of those fighter jets to help its counteroffensive against Russia. Ukraine's ambassador to Australia, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, said in June, “There has been a request for information. Ukraine is looking at fighter jet capabilities, including this one." Ukraine’s current aerial firepower According to the International Institute for Strategic Studies' Military Balance publication, Ukraine currently possesses around 82 fighter and attack jets. Sending these aircraft to Ukraine would involve significant diplomatic and logistical negotiations, making a swift agreement unlikely. Meanwhile, Australia recently revealed its plan to deploy an E-7A Wedgetail surveillance plane to Germany temporarily. The aircraft will be stationed there for six months and will be responsible for monitoring supply routes that connect to Ukraine. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

‘It’s complicated': Australia snubs Ukraine’s request for fighter jets

<p>In a recent phone call, Sergei Naryshkin, the head of Russia's foreign intelligence service (SVR), and Bill Burns, the head of the CIA, discussed the short-lived mutiny led by Russian mercenary boss Yevgeny Prigozhin and deliberated on the situation in Ukraine.</p>

<p>The call took place late last month and lasted approximately an hour. While the events of the mutiny were addressed, the primary focus of the conversation revolved around Ukraine, reported the Guardian.</p>

<h2><strong>Confirmation and US position</strong></h2>

<p>The New York Times and Wall Street Journal reported that William Burns assured the Kremlin during the call that the United States had no involvement in the Wagner revolt.</p>

<p>The CIA, however, declined to comment on Naryshkin's remarks or provide further details about the call.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/f-16-jets-in-ukraine-will-be-seen-as-nuclear-threat-russia-615014">F-16 jets in Ukraine will be seen as 'nuclear' threat: Russia</a></p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's stance and US support</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine, which experienced a Russian invasion in February 2022, asserts that other nations should not negotiate its future on its behalf.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russian President Putin may visit China to attend Belt &amp; Road Summit in October</strong></p>

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<p>The United States has consistently backed this principle, advocating for "nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine." This stance emphasises the importance of Ukraine's direct involvement in discussions about its own fate.</p>

<h2><strong>Communication amidst strained relations</strong></h2>

<p>Despite strained relations between Moscow and Washington, Burns and Naryshkin have maintained a line of communication since the beginning of the Ukraine war.</p>

<p>They previously met face-to-face in Ankara last November. US officials clarified that Burns was not conducting negotiations or discussing the settlement of the war in Ukraine during that meeting, following a leak from the Kremlin after Ukraine recaptured Kherson.</p>

<h2><strong>Possibility of future negotiations</strong></h2>

<p>During the recent call, Naryshkin expressed his belief that negotiations on the war in Ukraine would eventually become possible.</p>

<p>While it is unclear whether this specific topic was part of his conversation with Burns, Naryshkin stated that any conflict, including armed conflict, ultimately ends through negotiations. However, he also acknowledged that the conditions for such negotiations still need time to develop.</p>

<p>Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak dismissed Naryshkin's influence on the war's outcome, asserting that individuals like him have no leverage over how the conflict will end. Podolyak argued that Russia is losing the war, and engaging in negotiations with people who perceive events inadequately is pointless.</p>

<p>Ukraine, which launched a counteroffensive last month, has refused to enter talks at this stage to avoid freezing the situation on the battlefield, where Russia has already seized more than a sixth of Ukrainian territory.&nbsp;</p>

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In a recent phone call, Sergei Naryshkin, the head of Russia's foreign intelligence service (SVR), and Bill Burns, the head of the CIA, discussed the short-lived mutiny led by Russian mercenary boss Yevgeny Prigozhin and deliberated on the situation in Ukraine.

In a recent phone call, Sergei Naryshkin, the head of Russia's foreign intelligence service (SVR), and Bill Burns, the head of the CIA, discussed the short-lived mutiny led by Russian mercenary boss Yevgeny Prigozhin and deliberated on the situation in Ukraine. The call took place late last month and lasted approximately an hour. While the events of the mutiny were addressed, the primary focus of the conversation revolved around Ukraine, reported the Guardian. Confirmation and US position The New York Times and Wall Street Journal reported that William Burns assured the Kremlin during the call that the United States had no involvement in the Wagner revolt. The CIA, however, declined to comment on Naryshkin's remarks or provide further details about the call. Also read | F-16 jets in Ukraine will be seen as 'nuclear' threat: Russia Ukraine's stance and US support Ukraine, which experienced a Russian invasion in February 2022, asserts that other nations should not negotiate its future on its behalf. Watch | Russian President Putin may visit China to attend Belt & Road Summit in October The United States has consistently backed this principle, advocating for "nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine." This stance emphasises the importance of Ukraine's direct involvement in discussions about its own fate. Communication amidst strained relations Despite strained relations between Moscow and Washington, Burns and Naryshkin have maintained a line of communication since the beginning of the Ukraine war. They previously met face-to-face in Ankara last November. US officials clarified that Burns was not conducting negotiations or discussing the settlement of the war in Ukraine during that meeting, following a leak from the Kremlin after Ukraine recaptured Kherson. Possibility of future negotiations During the recent call, Naryshkin expressed his belief that negotiations on the war in Ukraine would eventually become possible. While it is unclear whether this specific topic was part of his conversation with Burns, Naryshkin stated that any conflict, including armed conflict, ultimately ends through negotiations. However, he also acknowledged that the conditions for such negotiations still need time to develop. Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak dismissed Naryshkin's influence on the war's outcome, asserting that individuals like him have no leverage over how the conflict will end. Podolyak argued that Russia is losing the war, and engaging in negotiations with people who perceive events inadequately is pointless. Ukraine, which launched a counteroffensive last month, has refused to enter talks at this stage to avoid freezing the situation on the battlefield, where Russia has already seized more than a sixth of Ukrainian territory. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Top Russian spy confirms phone call to CIA director following Wagner revolt

<p>Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Thursday (July 13) that Russia will regard Western F-16 fighter jets sent to Ukraine as a "nuclear" threat because of their capacity to carry atomic weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian foreign ministry quoted Lavrov as saying, "We will regard the very fact that the Ukrainian armed forces have such systems as a threat from the West in the nuclear sphere."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ever since the war began, Ukraine has asked the West to supply advanced weapons, long-range missiles, battle tanks and fighter jets. Most of the demands were met, but allies baulked to provide the war-ravaged nation with long-range missiles and jets in order to avoid direct conflict with Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Russia cannot ignore the ability of these aircraft to carry nuclear weapons. No amount of assurances will help here," Lavrov said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the course of combat operations, our servicemen are not going to sort out whether each particular aircraft of this type is equipped to deliver nuclear weapons or not."</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Zelensky battles alone, amidst sea of support at&nbsp;NATO Summit&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/weapons-supply-to-ukraine-allies-embarrassed-over-ben-wallaces-we-are-not-amazon-remarks-614984">Weapons supply to Ukraine: Allies embarrassed over Ben Wallace's we are 'not Amazon' remarks?</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>This comes amid the Netherlands and Denmark's plan to train Ukrainian pilots on using the US-made aircraft as part of an 11-nation coalition. Denmark's defence minister Troels Lund Poulsen said the training would start in his country in August.</p>

<p>He said, "Hopefully, we will be able to see results at the beginning of next year."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine's defence minister Oleksiy Reznikov hailed the move and said he hoped to see pilots ready to fly in six months. His Dutch counterpart Kajsa Ollongren said that the allies would establish a centre to train pilots in Romania over the longer term. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Washington has still not given the go-ahead for any country to supply the jets to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-biden-commits-another-gaffe-calls-zelensky-vladimir-at-nato-summit-614933">Biden commits another gaffe, calls Zelensky 'Vladimir' at NATO Summit</a>&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky hails 'security victory'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday welcomed a commitment by G7 nations to support Ukraine for as long it takes to defeat Russia. Zelensky said that the move was a step on the road to Kyiv eventually joining NATO.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a speech in Vilnius, US President Joe Biden said, "We will not waver. Putin still doubts our staying power. He's still making a bad bet that the conviction and the unity among the United States and our allies and partners will break down."</p>

<p>Zelensky insisted that the promises from the Western leaders amounted to a "significant security victory" that he could take home to Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But he also said that "the best guarantee for Ukraine is to be in NATO" as he expressed confidence that once the war is over Ukraine would be welcomed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Thursday (July 13) that Russia will regard Western F-16 fighter jets sent to Ukraine as a "nuclear" threat because of their capacity to carry atomic weapons.

Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Thursday (July 13) that Russia will regard Western F-16 fighter jets sent to Ukraine as a "nuclear" threat because of their capacity to carry atomic weapons. Russian foreign ministry quoted Lavrov as saying, "We will regard the very fact that the Ukrainian armed forces have such systems as a threat from the West in the nuclear sphere." Ever since the war began, Ukraine has asked the West to supply advanced weapons, long-range missiles, battle tanks and fighter jets. Most of the demands were met, but allies baulked to provide the war-ravaged nation with long-range missiles and jets in order to avoid direct conflict with Russia. "Russia cannot ignore the ability of these aircraft to carry nuclear weapons. No amount of assurances will help here," Lavrov said. "In the course of combat operations, our servicemen are not going to sort out whether each particular aircraft of this type is equipped to deliver nuclear weapons or not." Watch: Zelensky battles alone, amidst sea of support at NATO Summit × Also read: Weapons supply to Ukraine: Allies embarrassed over Ben Wallace's we are 'not Amazon' remarks? This comes amid the Netherlands and Denmark's plan to train Ukrainian pilots on using the US-made aircraft as part of an 11-nation coalition. Denmark's defence minister Troels Lund Poulsen said the training would start in his country in August. He said, "Hopefully, we will be able to see results at the beginning of next year." Ukraine's defence minister Oleksiy Reznikov hailed the move and said he hoped to see pilots ready to fly in six months. His Dutch counterpart Kajsa Ollongren said that the allies would establish a centre to train pilots in Romania over the longer term. Washington has still not given the go-ahead for any country to supply the jets to Ukraine. Also read: Biden commits another gaffe, calls Zelensky 'Vladimir' at NATO Summit Zelensky hails 'security victory' Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday welcomed a commitment by G7 nations to support Ukraine for as long it takes to defeat Russia. Zelensky said that the move was a step on the road to Kyiv eventually joining NATO. In a speech in Vilnius, US President Joe Biden said, "We will not waver. Putin still doubts our staying power. He's still making a bad bet that the conviction and the unity among the United States and our allies and partners will break down." Zelensky insisted that the promises from the Western leaders amounted to a "significant security victory" that he could take home to Kyiv. But he also said that "the best guarantee for Ukraine is to be in NATO" as he expressed confidence that once the war is over Ukraine would be welcomed. (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.

F-16 jets in Ukraine will be seen as 'nuclear' threat: Russia

<p>British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace has been facing flack after his "We are not Amazon" comment for Ukraine went viral. Members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) gathered in Lithuania's capital to discuss future plans for Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking on the sidelines of the summit, Wallace&nbsp;recalled the time he warned the war-torn nation that its international allies were "not Amazon" and Kyiv needed to show gratitude for the supply of weapons&nbsp;in order to persuade Western politicians to give more.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As he spoke to reporters, the UK minister mentioned the time he had travelled to Ukraine last year, where he received a shopping list of weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Referring to the tech and retail company, Wallace &nbsp;said, "You know, we're not Amazon." He added, "I told them that last year when I drove 11 hours to be given a list."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two-day NATO summit did not confirm (or deny) an invitation for Kyiv to join the military alliance on a clear timeframe, and now, Wallace's comments have led to embarrassment among the allies - some even referred to it as discord among Ukraine's so-called friends.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-killed-four-injured-after-russia-carries-out-massive-overnight-strike-on-kyiv-614905">One killed, four injured after Russia carries out 'massive' overnight strike on Kyiv</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Wallace told British media: "There is a slight word of caution which is, whether we like it or not, people want to see gratitude. Sometimes you're persuading countries to give up their own stocks. And yes, the war is a noble war and yes, we see it as you doing a war not just for yourselves but also our freedoms."</p>

<p>"But sometimes you've got to persuade lawmakers on the hill in America," Wallace said referring to the US Congress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You have got to persuade doubting politicians in other countries that it is worth it, it's worthwhile and they are getting something for it," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Biden greets NATO's newest member, Finland&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Sunak responds to Wallace's comments</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>On being asked about Wallace's remarks, Sunak said Zelensky "has expressed his gratitude for what we have done on a number of occasions".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Not least in his incredibly moving address that he made to parliament earlier this year and he has done so again to me, as he has done countless times when I have met him," he told reporters in Vilnius.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sunak added: "So I know that he and his people are incredibly grateful for the support we have shown, the welcome that we have provided to many Ukrainian families, but also the leadership we have shown throughout this conflict."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-biden-commits-another-gaffe-calls-zelensky-vladimir-at-nato-summit-614933">Biden commits another gaffe, calls Zelensky 'Vladimir' at NATO Summit</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky says, 'We were always grateful'</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Zelensky was also asked about Wallace's comments at his summit press conference and responded in an exasperated tone.</p>

<p>"I believe that we were always grateful to the United Kingdom. We are always grateful to the prime minister -- or to prime ministers –- and to the minister of defence," he told reporters. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace has been facing flack after his "We are not Amazon" comment for Ukraine went viral. Members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) gathered in Lithuania's capital to discuss future plans for Ukraine.

British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace has been facing flack after his "We are not Amazon" comment for Ukraine went viral. Members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) gathered in Lithuania's capital to discuss future plans for Ukraine. While speaking on the sidelines of the summit, Wallace recalled the time he warned the war-torn nation that its international allies were "not Amazon" and Kyiv needed to show gratitude for the supply of weapons in order to persuade Western politicians to give more. As he spoke to reporters, the UK minister mentioned the time he had travelled to Ukraine last year, where he received a shopping list of weapons. Referring to the tech and retail company, Wallace said, "You know, we're not Amazon." He added, "I told them that last year when I drove 11 hours to be given a list." The two-day NATO summit did not confirm (or deny) an invitation for Kyiv to join the military alliance on a clear timeframe, and now, Wallace's comments have led to embarrassment among the allies - some even referred to it as discord among Ukraine's so-called friends. Also read: One killed, four injured after Russia carries out 'massive' overnight strike on Kyiv Wallace told British media: "There is a slight word of caution which is, whether we like it or not, people want to see gratitude. Sometimes you're persuading countries to give up their own stocks. And yes, the war is a noble war and yes, we see it as you doing a war not just for yourselves but also our freedoms." "But sometimes you've got to persuade lawmakers on the hill in America," Wallace said referring to the US Congress. "You have got to persuade doubting politicians in other countries that it is worth it, it's worthwhile and they are getting something for it," he added. Watch: Biden greets NATO's newest member, Finland × Sunak responds to Wallace's comments On being asked about Wallace's remarks, Sunak said Zelensky "has expressed his gratitude for what we have done on a number of occasions". "Not least in his incredibly moving address that he made to parliament earlier this year and he has done so again to me, as he has done countless times when I have met him," he told reporters in Vilnius. Sunak added: "So I know that he and his people are incredibly grateful for the support we have shown, the welcome that we have provided to many Ukrainian families, but also the leadership we have shown throughout this conflict." Also read: Biden commits another gaffe, calls Zelensky 'Vladimir' at NATO Summit Zelensky says, 'We were always grateful' Zelensky was also asked about Wallace's comments at his summit press conference and responded in an exasperated tone. "I believe that we were always grateful to the United Kingdom. We are always grateful to the prime minister -- or to prime ministers –- and to the minister of defence," he told reporters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Weapons supply to Ukraine: Allies embarrassed over Ben Wallace's we are 'not Amazon' remarks?

<p>Deputy commander of Russia's military operations in Ukraine, General Sergei Surovikin, who has not been seen in public since the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner, is currently 'resting', said a lawmaker from the ruling party on Wednesday.</p>

<p>As per Reuters reports, Andrei Kartapolov, head of the State Duma Defence Committee, is heard saying in a video posted on social media: "Surovikin is currently resting. (He is) not available for now."</p>

<p>Surovikin, who is also called 'General Armageddon' by the Russian press for his assertive strategies in the Syria conflict, was last seen publicly when he issued an appeal via a video urging the mercenary group to halt the mutiny while it was underway.</p>

<p>As per reports, Surovikin had good relations with Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, who appreciated the general while regularly criticising Moscow's military leadership, especially Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov, over their handling of the war in Ukraine.</p>

<p>As per a New York Times report based on a U.S. intelligence briefing, Surovikin had prior knowledge of the rebellion and that Russian authorities were probing if he was associated with it or not.</p>

<p>According to the news agency Reuters, Russian and international media, last month, reported that Surovikin had been arrested, but there has been no official confirmation of that, and the Kremlin has declined to answer questions about him.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-to-offer-security-commitments-to-ukraine-after-slow-progress-on-its-nato-induction-614673">West to offer long-term security commitments to Ukraine after slow progress on its NATO induction</a></p>

<h2><strong>Putin met Wagner chief five days after failed coup attempt: Kremlin</strong></h2>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin met the Wagner mercenary group’s chief Yevgeny Prigozhin five days after the failed coup attempt, the Kremlin said on Monday.</p>

<p>Briefing the reporters, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the meeting took place on June 29, in which 35 people were invited, including unit commanders. He further said that the meeting lasted three hours.</p>

<p>Putin “gave his assessment of the events of June 24,” Peskov said, referring to the date of the Wagner Group’s failed uprising. He added that Putin also "listened to accounts given by (Wagner) commanders".</p>

<p>The Wagner commanders told Putin they were his soldiers and would continue to fight for him.</p>

<p>The development comes following speculations that Prigozhin wasn't exiled to Belarus at all as part of the peace deal brokered by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko.</p>

<p>Last week, Lukashenko told reporters that it was unclear if the Wagner fighters would come to Belarus after he previously offered them a desert military base.</p>

<p>“As for Prigozhin, he's in St Petersburg. He is not on the territory of Belarus," he said.</p>

<p>Responding to Lukashenko's remarks, the Kremlin said it was "not following" Prigozhin's movements.</p>

<p>"No, we do not follow his movements, we have neither the ability nor the desire to do so," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Deputy commander of Russia's military operations in Ukraine, General Sergei Surovikin, who has not been seen in public since the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner, is currently 'resting', said a lawmaker from the ruling party on Wednesday.

Deputy commander of Russia's military operations in Ukraine, General Sergei Surovikin, who has not been seen in public since the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner, is currently 'resting', said a lawmaker from the ruling party on Wednesday. As per Reuters reports, Andrei Kartapolov, head of the State Duma Defence Committee, is heard saying in a video posted on social media: "Surovikin is currently resting. (He is) not available for now." Surovikin, who is also called 'General Armageddon' by the Russian press for his assertive strategies in the Syria conflict, was last seen publicly when he issued an appeal via a video urging the mercenary group to halt the mutiny while it was underway. As per reports, Surovikin had good relations with Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, who appreciated the general while regularly criticising Moscow's military leadership, especially Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov, over their handling of the war in Ukraine. As per a New York Times report based on a U.S. intelligence briefing, Surovikin had prior knowledge of the rebellion and that Russian authorities were probing if he was associated with it or not. According to the news agency Reuters, Russian and international media, last month, reported that Surovikin had been arrested, but there has been no official confirmation of that, and the Kremlin has declined to answer questions about him. Also read: West to offer long-term security commitments to Ukraine after slow progress on its NATO induction Putin met Wagner chief five days after failed coup attempt: Kremlin Russian President Vladimir Putin met the Wagner mercenary group’s chief Yevgeny Prigozhin five days after the failed coup attempt, the Kremlin said on Monday. Briefing the reporters, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the meeting took place on June 29, in which 35 people were invited, including unit commanders. He further said that the meeting lasted three hours. Putin “gave his assessment of the events of June 24,” Peskov said, referring to the date of the Wagner Group’s failed uprising. He added that Putin also "listened to accounts given by (Wagner) commanders". The Wagner commanders told Putin they were his soldiers and would continue to fight for him. The development comes following speculations that Prigozhin wasn't exiled to Belarus at all as part of the peace deal brokered by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. Last week, Lukashenko told reporters that it was unclear if the Wagner fighters would come to Belarus after he previously offered them a desert military base. “As for Prigozhin, he's in St Petersburg. He is not on the territory of Belarus," he said. Responding to Lukashenko's remarks, the Kremlin said it was "not following" Prigozhin's movements. "No, we do not follow his movements, we have neither the ability nor the desire to do so," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Top Russian general not seen in public since Wagner mutiny, lawmaker says 'he's resting'

<p>Western countries are going to offer Ukraine a long-term security commitment package on Wednesday (July 12) after NATO's rebuff to Ukraine in giving a clear timeline for joining the alliance.&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky blasted the alliance just a day ago for not being swift enough on Ukraine's induction. He will now hold talks with NATO's 31 leaders assembled for the summit in Lithuanian capital Vilnius.</p>

<p>It is expected that the G7 countries will issue a declaration to assure Zelensky on how they will help Ukraine against Russia and deter any new aggression in future.</p>

<p>Zelensky, as he arrived for the summit, had said that he wanted to get on the "same page" with NATO over what were the conditions for joining the alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will speak today and fight for these security guarantees for Ukraine on the way to NATO," he said before striding up the red carpet.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Ukraine's future is in alliance but no roadmap yet: NATO</strong></p>

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<p>The announcement from G7 countries is likely to provide a framework which will guide individual nations to strike bilateral deals with Ukraine. These deals will detail the weapons that will be provided to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A message to Putin?</strong></h2>

<p>The West it appears wants to send a message to Russian President Vladimir Putin that he can't keep the war going on with the hope that Western support to Ukraine will eventually falter.</p>

<p>"This multilateral declaration will send a significant signal to Russia that time is not on its side," White House advisor for European affairs Amanda Sloat said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Previously, US President Joe Biden suggested a model for Ukraine similar to one under which Washington has committed to giving Israel $3.8 billion in military aid per year over a decade.</p>

<p>The West has already sent weapons worth tens of billions of dollars to Ukraine to help it fight against Russia.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, Germany said that it was sending long-range missiles and a coalition of 11 nations announced they will start training Ukrainian pilots on F-16 jets from next month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine has definitely got Western backing but it has, according to Zelensky, fallen short of his aspirations of putting Kyiv under NATO's collective defensive shield.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lost-child-in-a-fair-internet-reacts-to-zelenskys-photo-at-nato-summit-614628">'Lost child in a fair': Internet reacts to Zelensky's photo at NATO Summit</a></strong></p>

<p>NATO leaders vowed after the first day of their summit that "Ukraine's future is in NATO" and shortened the eventual process Kyiv would have to go through to enter the alliance. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will be in a position to extend an invitation to Ukraine to join the alliance when allies agree and conditions are met," a statement said.</p>

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Western countries are going to offer Ukraine a long-term security commitment package on Wednesday (July 12) after NATO's rebuff to Ukraine in giving a clear timeline for joining the alliance.

Western countries are going to offer Ukraine a long-term security commitment package on Wednesday (July 12) after NATO's rebuff to Ukraine in giving a clear timeline for joining the alliance. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky blasted the alliance just a day ago for not being swift enough on Ukraine's induction. He will now hold talks with NATO's 31 leaders assembled for the summit in Lithuanian capital Vilnius. It is expected that the G7 countries will issue a declaration to assure Zelensky on how they will help Ukraine against Russia and deter any new aggression in future. Zelensky, as he arrived for the summit, had said that he wanted to get on the "same page" with NATO over what were the conditions for joining the alliance. "We will speak today and fight for these security guarantees for Ukraine on the way to NATO," he said before striding up the red carpet. Watch | Ukraine's future is in alliance but no roadmap yet: NATO × The announcement from G7 countries is likely to provide a framework which will guide individual nations to strike bilateral deals with Ukraine. These deals will detail the weapons that will be provided to Ukraine. A message to Putin? The West it appears wants to send a message to Russian President Vladimir Putin that he can't keep the war going on with the hope that Western support to Ukraine will eventually falter. "This multilateral declaration will send a significant signal to Russia that time is not on its side," White House advisor for European affairs Amanda Sloat said. Previously, US President Joe Biden suggested a model for Ukraine similar to one under which Washington has committed to giving Israel $3.8 billion in military aid per year over a decade. The West has already sent weapons worth tens of billions of dollars to Ukraine to help it fight against Russia. On Tuesday, Germany said that it was sending long-range missiles and a coalition of 11 nations announced they will start training Ukrainian pilots on F-16 jets from next month. Ukraine has definitely got Western backing but it has, according to Zelensky, fallen short of his aspirations of putting Kyiv under NATO's collective defensive shield. Also Read | 'Lost child in a fair': Internet reacts to Zelensky's photo at NATO Summit NATO leaders vowed after the first day of their summit that "Ukraine's future is in NATO" and shortened the eventual process Kyiv would have to go through to enter the alliance. "We will be in a position to extend an invitation to Ukraine to join the alliance when allies agree and conditions are met," a statement said. 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 ×

West to offer long-term security commitments to Ukraine after slow progress on its NATO induction

<p>Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said in an interview that the armed confrontation in Ukraine will continue until the West gives up plans to dominate and defeat Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The interview with an Indonesian newspaper was published on Wednesday (July 12). Lavrov said that the goal of the "US-led collective West" is to strengthen its global hegemony.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia has often warned the West against supplying precision and long-range weapons to Ukraine during the ongoing war, which started last year in February.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian minister told the Kompas newspaper that Kyiv is ignoring Indonesia's peace plan and instead promoting its own "package of ultimatums".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lost-child-in-a-fair-internet-reacts-to-zelenskys-photo-at-nato-summit-614628">'Lost child in a fair': Internet reacts to Zelensky's photo at NATO Summit</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>According to a transcript of the interview published on Russia's foreign ministry website, Lavrov asked, "Why doesn't the armed confrontation in Ukraine come to an end?"</p>

<p>"The answer is very simple – it will continue until the West gives up its plans to preserve its domination and overcome its obsessive desire to inflict on Russia a strategic defeat at the hands of its Kyiv puppets," said Lavrov, who is due to attend the East Asia Summit and ASEAN Regional Forum in Jakarta this week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;NATO nod for training Ukrainian pilots, says 'no membership but military support continues'&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Russian air strikes on Kyiv amind NATO gathering&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Ukrainian military said on Wednesday that Russia launched a wave of kamikaze drone attacks on Kyiv and nearby regions for the second night in a row.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The strikes were carried out just hours before Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was due to meet NATO leaders at a summit that has backed Ukraine's independence.</p>

<p>As per reports, air alarms were issued over Kyiv and across Ukraine for more than two hours, and combat continued.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian military said that there were no immediate reports of casualties or major destruction and all the drones were intercepted before hitting their targets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Serhiy Popko, head of Kyiv's military administration, said on the Telegram messaging app: "The 504th day of the full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation into Ukraine. The enemy launched another air attack on the capital."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-blocks-delivery-of-aids-to-rebel-held-regions-of-syria-after-vetoing-un-vote-614559">Russia blocks delivery of aid to rebel-held regions of Syria after vetoing UN vote</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Lavrov on Myanmar situation&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>While speaking on the current Myanmar situation and internal strife since a military coup in 2021, Lavrov urged the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to resolve issues with "close cooperation" with the junta. He added that Myanmar's domestic affairs must not be interfered with.</p>

<p>ASEAN foreign ministers meeting on Tuesday was expected to address the growing violence in Myanmar. The regional bloc has barred the junta from its summits for failing to implement an agreed peace plan.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said in an interview that the armed confrontation in Ukraine will continue until the West gives up plans to dominate and defeat Moscow.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said in an interview that the armed confrontation in Ukraine will continue until the West gives up plans to dominate and defeat Moscow. The interview with an Indonesian newspaper was published on Wednesday (July 12). Lavrov said that the goal of the "US-led collective West" is to strengthen its global hegemony. Russia has often warned the West against supplying precision and long-range weapons to Ukraine during the ongoing war, which started last year in February. The Russian minister told the Kompas newspaper that Kyiv is ignoring Indonesia's peace plan and instead promoting its own "package of ultimatums". Also read: 'Lost child in a fair': Internet reacts to Zelensky's photo at NATO Summit According to a transcript of the interview published on Russia's foreign ministry website, Lavrov asked, "Why doesn't the armed confrontation in Ukraine come to an end?" "The answer is very simple – it will continue until the West gives up its plans to preserve its domination and overcome its obsessive desire to inflict on Russia a strategic defeat at the hands of its Kyiv puppets," said Lavrov, who is due to attend the East Asia Summit and ASEAN Regional Forum in Jakarta this week. Watch: NATO nod for training Ukrainian pilots, says 'no membership but military support continues' × Russian air strikes on Kyiv amind NATO gathering The Ukrainian military said on Wednesday that Russia launched a wave of kamikaze drone attacks on Kyiv and nearby regions for the second night in a row. The strikes were carried out just hours before Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was due to meet NATO leaders at a summit that has backed Ukraine's independence. As per reports, air alarms were issued over Kyiv and across Ukraine for more than two hours, and combat continued. Ukrainian military said that there were no immediate reports of casualties or major destruction and all the drones were intercepted before hitting their targets. Serhiy Popko, head of Kyiv's military administration, said on the Telegram messaging app: "The 504th day of the full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation into Ukraine. The enemy launched another air attack on the capital." Also read: Russia blocks delivery of aid to rebel-held regions of Syria after vetoing UN vote Lavrov on Myanmar situation While speaking on the current Myanmar situation and internal strife since a military coup in 2021, Lavrov urged the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to resolve issues with "close cooperation" with the junta. He added that Myanmar's domestic affairs must not be interfered with. ASEAN foreign ministers meeting on Tuesday was expected to address the growing violence in Myanmar. The regional bloc has barred the junta from its summits for failing to implement an agreed peace plan. (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: Lavrov says conflict will not end until West drops plans to defeat Moscow

<p>The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members are gathering in Lithuania's Vilnius for a key summit on Tuesday, but hours before that, Russia launched an air strike on Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine's military said that the air strike was launched in the early hours of Tuesday, ahead of the summit where the member nations will discuss ways to tackle security threats from Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The enemy attacked Kyiv from the air for the second time this month," Serhiy Popko, a head of Kyiv's military administration, said in a post on the Telegram channel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv said that the attack used Iranian-made Shahed explosive drones, which were launched from the south, most likely from Russia's Krasnodar region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Popko said that Ukraine's air defence systems shot down all the Iranian-made Shahed drones Russia launched before they reached their targets. As per preliminary information, there was no damage or casualties.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-to-meet-zelensky-at-nato-summit-in-show-of-support-against-russian-aggression-614071">Biden to meet Zelensky at NATO summit, in show of support against Russian aggression</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Ukraine's Air Force said that air raid alerts blasted over Kyiv for an hour and longer in other parts of Ukraine's east.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Kyiv's interior ministry, drone wreckage had been located at an undisclosed location in the Kyiv region, but it is not specified how many drones were downed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry said "windows and outbuildings of private households were damaged" and also added that there was no immediate information on victims.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Wagner fighters neared Russian nuclear bases during mutiny</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The month of May faced frequent nightly aerial raids in May which were comparatively more than at the beginning of the year. Sergiy Bratchuk of the local administration said that the western port city of Odesa was also targeted in an overnight drone strike.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Providing further details, he said that aerial defences had been activated. Air alerts were also reported in Mykolayiv, Kherson, Kirovograd, Poltava, Sumy, and Kharkiv regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/solomon-islands-signs-controversial-policing-deal-with-china-upgrades-ties-with-beijing-614126">Solomon Islands signs controversial policing deal with China, upgrades ties with Beijing</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>NATO summit&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>As NATO leaders gather for a summit in Vilnius, they would sought to overcome divisions on Ukraine's membership bid after a deal to lift Turkey's block on Sweden joining the military alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The summit will be dominated by the repercussions of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with leaders set to approve NATO's first comprehensive plans since the end of the Cold War to defend against any attack from Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the diplomats, the differences were narrowing over Ukraine's push for NATO membership, but NATO members agree that Kyiv cannot join during the war.&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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The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members are gathering in Lithuania's Vilnius for a key summit on Tuesday, but hours before that, Russia launched an air strike on Kyiv.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members are gathering in Lithuania's Vilnius for a key summit on Tuesday, but hours before that, Russia launched an air strike on Kyiv. Ukraine's military said that the air strike was launched in the early hours of Tuesday, ahead of the summit where the member nations will discuss ways to tackle security threats from Moscow. "The enemy attacked Kyiv from the air for the second time this month," Serhiy Popko, a head of Kyiv's military administration, said in a post on the Telegram channel. Kyiv said that the attack used Iranian-made Shahed explosive drones, which were launched from the south, most likely from Russia's Krasnodar region. Popko said that Ukraine's air defence systems shot down all the Iranian-made Shahed drones Russia launched before they reached their targets. As per preliminary information, there was no damage or casualties. Also read: Biden to meet Zelensky at NATO summit, in show of support against Russian aggression Ukraine's Air Force said that air raid alerts blasted over Kyiv for an hour and longer in other parts of Ukraine's east. According to Kyiv's interior ministry, drone wreckage had been located at an undisclosed location in the Kyiv region, but it is not specified how many drones were downed. The ministry said "windows and outbuildings of private households were damaged" and also added that there was no immediate information on victims. Watch: Wagner fighters neared Russian nuclear bases during mutiny × The month of May faced frequent nightly aerial raids in May which were comparatively more than at the beginning of the year. Sergiy Bratchuk of the local administration said that the western port city of Odesa was also targeted in an overnight drone strike. Providing further details, he said that aerial defences had been activated. Air alerts were also reported in Mykolayiv, Kherson, Kirovograd, Poltava, Sumy, and Kharkiv regions. Also read: Solomon Islands signs controversial policing deal with China, upgrades ties with Beijing NATO summit As NATO leaders gather for a summit in Vilnius, they would sought to overcome divisions on Ukraine's membership bid after a deal to lift Turkey's block on Sweden joining the military alliance. The summit will be dominated by the repercussions of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with leaders set to approve NATO's first comprehensive plans since the end of the Cold War to defend against any attack from Moscow. According to the diplomats, the differences were narrowing over Ukraine's push for NATO membership, but NATO members agree that Kyiv cannot join during the war. 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 launches air strike on Kyiv ahead of NATO summit

A contingent of military vehicles diverted East on a highway in the direction of a fortified Russian Army base that holds nuclear weapons is a big development which are reported. In a shocking revelation, Ukraine's head of military intelligence said that the Wagner fighter had reached the Ukraine base.

Wagner fighters neared Russian nuclear bases during mutiny: Reports | World DNA

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<p>US President Joe Biden said that war-ravaged Ukraine is not ready to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), an intergovernmental military alliance of countries from Europe and North America. However, Biden also said that the US and other allies will continue to provide Ukrainian forces with the security and weaponry needed for the Russia-Ukraine war, which was started last year in February.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During an interview with CNN published on Sunday (July 9), Biden said, "I don't think there is unanimity in NATO about whether or not to bring Ukraine into the NATO family now, at this moment, in the middle of a war."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"For example, if you did that, then, you know – and I mean what I say – we're determined to commit every inch of territory that is NATO territory. It's a commitment that we've all made no matter what. If the war is going on, then we're all in war. We're at war with Russia, if that were the case," Biden added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pres-will-meet-british-pm-sunak-king-charles-in-uk-biden-to-hold-talks-with-erdogan-at-nato-summit-613692">Biden arrives in UK to meet PM Sunak, King Charles; will hold talks with Erdogan at NATO summit</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The US president further said, "I think we have to lay out a rational path for Ukraine to be able to qualify to be able to get into NATO." Biden also noted that he refused Putin's demands before the war for a commitment not to admit Ukraine because the alliance has "an open-door policy".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But I think it’s premature to say, to call for a vote, you know, in now, because there are other qualifications that need to be met, including democratisation and some of those issues," Biden added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>On Sunday night, Biden landed in London to start a crucial three-nation trip that will include a NATO summit in Lithuania. The NATO gathering will aim at showing solidarity with Ukraine in its fight against Russia, but not yet accepting Kyiv as a member of the defence alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden is scheduled to meet British monarch King Charles III and Prime Minster Rishi Sunak to deepen ties and discuss issues of mutual interest, including Ukraine and climate change.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-official-seemingly-claims-responsibility-for-crimea-bridge-blast-613657">Ukrainian official seemingly claims responsibility for Crimea bridge blast</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine wishes for 'best possible result' from NATO summit&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday said that he hopes for the "best possible result" from an upcoming NATO summit and also a clear signal should be there to highlight whether or not the nation&nbsp;could one day join the alliance.&nbsp;<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Zelensky met with his Polish counterpart Andrzej Duda and discussed the NATO summit. They agreed to "work together to get the best possible result for Ukraine". The summit opens on Tuesday in Vilnius.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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US President Joe Biden said that war-ravaged Ukraine is not ready to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), an intergovernmental military alliance of countries from Europe and North America.

US President Joe Biden said that war-ravaged Ukraine is not ready to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), an intergovernmental military alliance of countries from Europe and North America. However, Biden also said that the US and other allies will continue to provide Ukrainian forces with the security and weaponry needed for the Russia-Ukraine war, which was started last year in February. During an interview with CNN published on Sunday (July 9), Biden said, "I don't think there is unanimity in NATO about whether or not to bring Ukraine into the NATO family now, at this moment, in the middle of a war." "For example, if you did that, then, you know – and I mean what I say – we're determined to commit every inch of territory that is NATO territory. It's a commitment that we've all made no matter what. If the war is going on, then we're all in war. We're at war with Russia, if that were the case," Biden added. Also read: Biden arrives in UK to meet PM Sunak, King Charles; will hold talks with Erdogan at NATO summit The US president further said, "I think we have to lay out a rational path for Ukraine to be able to qualify to be able to get into NATO." Biden also noted that he refused Putin's demands before the war for a commitment not to admit Ukraine because the alliance has "an open-door policy". "But I think it’s premature to say, to call for a vote, you know, in now, because there are other qualifications that need to be met, including democratisation and some of those issues," Biden added. Watch this report: × On Sunday night, Biden landed in London to start a crucial three-nation trip that will include a NATO summit in Lithuania. The NATO gathering will aim at showing solidarity with Ukraine in its fight against Russia, but not yet accepting Kyiv as a member of the defence alliance. Biden is scheduled to meet British monarch King Charles III and Prime Minster Rishi Sunak to deepen ties and discuss issues of mutual interest, including Ukraine and climate change. Also read: Ukrainian official seemingly claims responsibility for Crimea bridge blast Ukraine wishes for 'best possible result' from NATO summit Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday said that he hopes for the "best possible result" from an upcoming NATO summit and also a clear signal should be there to highlight whether or not the nation could one day join the alliance. Zelensky met with his Polish counterpart Andrzej Duda and discussed the NATO summit. They agreed to "work together to get the best possible result for Ukraine". The summit opens on Tuesday in Vilnius. (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.

Biden says Ukraine not ready for NATO membership in the middle of war with Russia