<p>Kyiv said on Tuesday (June 20) that European Union member states are planning to train 30,000 members of Ukraine's armed forces this year. The members of the armed forces also include territorial defence units.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The defence ministry in Kyiv said, "In 2023, the EU Military Assistance Mission for Ukraine plans to train 30,000 Ukrainian armed forces personnel, including soldiers of the territorial defence forces."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement comes after EU officials made a pledge earlier this year in February that it would train 30,000 Ukrainian troops, building on an initial target of 15,000 personnel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russian-air-strikes-hit-kyiv-other-regions-far-from-front-lines-606608">Russian air strikes hit Kyiv, other regions far from frontline</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>EU offers Ukraine over 50 billion dollars through 2027&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The EU said on Tuesday that it will provide Ukraine with $54.58 billion in aid for 2024-27. EU's president said ahead of a gathering in London to secure short-term financing and money to rebuild the nation from Russia's war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the first part of a "Green Marshall Plan" for reconstruction, Ukraine asked up to $40 billion from the London conference starting on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the World Bank estimates, the war-ravaged nation needs more than $400 billion over a decade, which is three times Ukraine's GDP.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-planning-to-launch-missiles-at-crimea-russia-claims-606594">Ukraine planning to launch missiles at Crimea, Russia claims</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Rostyslav Shurma, who is a deputy head of President Volodymyr Zelensky's office, told Reuters the first focus would be the iron and steel industry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The news agency said in its report that in 2021, the sector provided around 10% of Ukrainian GDP, a third of export income, and employed over 600,000 people. Shurma said that it accounted for 15% of the country's carbon emissions. The official said that he believes there is now a potential to establish an economy based on renewable energy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-europe-burning-through-ammunition-reserves-606576/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"If you have to rebuild, it is logical to rebuild green in line with new technologies ... Our vision is to build a 50 million tonnes green steel industry in Ukraine," he said.</p>

<p>Shurma added that many of the country's damaged legacy steel plants were built in locations that suited their reliance on coal as a power source, but now, they were free to build closer to the iron ore deposits and away from the Donbas region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the aim was to "provide predictable finance to Ukraine on its EU path, together with global partners and the private sector."&nbsp;</p>

<p>At a conference aimed at encouraging private companies to invest in the country's reconstruction after Russia's invasion, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he would set out a new assistance package for Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Kyiv said on Tuesday (June 20) that European Union member states are planning to train 30,000 members of Ukraine's armed forces this year. The members of the armed forces also include territorial defence units.

Kyiv said on Tuesday (June 20) that European Union member states are planning to train 30,000 members of Ukraine's armed forces this year. The members of the armed forces also include territorial defence units. The defence ministry in Kyiv said, "In 2023, the EU Military Assistance Mission for Ukraine plans to train 30,000 Ukrainian armed forces personnel, including soldiers of the territorial defence forces." The statement comes after EU officials made a pledge earlier this year in February that it would train 30,000 Ukrainian troops, building on an initial target of 15,000 personnel. Also read: Russian air strikes hit Kyiv, other regions far from frontline EU offers Ukraine over 50 billion dollars through 2027 The EU said on Tuesday that it will provide Ukraine with $54.58 billion in aid for 2024-27. EU's president said ahead of a gathering in London to secure short-term financing and money to rebuild the nation from Russia's war. For the first part of a "Green Marshall Plan" for reconstruction, Ukraine asked up to $40 billion from the London conference starting on Wednesday. According to the World Bank estimates, the war-ravaged nation needs more than $400 billion over a decade, which is three times Ukraine's GDP. Also read: Ukraine planning to launch missiles at Crimea, Russia claims Rostyslav Shurma, who is a deputy head of President Volodymyr Zelensky's office, told Reuters the first focus would be the iron and steel industry. The news agency said in its report that in 2021, the sector provided around 10% of Ukrainian GDP, a third of export income, and employed over 600,000 people. Shurma said that it accounted for 15% of the country's carbon emissions. The official said that he believes there is now a potential to establish an economy based on renewable energy. Watch this report: × "If you have to rebuild, it is logical to rebuild green in line with new technologies ... Our vision is to build a 50 million tonnes green steel industry in Ukraine," he said. Shurma added that many of the country's damaged legacy steel plants were built in locations that suited their reliance on coal as a power source, but now, they were free to build closer to the iron ore deposits and away from the Donbas region. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the aim was to "provide predictable finance to Ukraine on its EU path, together with global partners and the private sector." At a conference aimed at encouraging private companies to invest in the country's reconstruction after Russia's invasion, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he would set out a new assistance package for Ukraine. (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.

Kyiv says EU countries to train 30,000 Ukraine troops in 2023

<p>During a meeting with African leaders at the historic Konstantinovsky Palace, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his appreciation for their balanced approach to the conflict in Ukraine and emphasised Russia's openness to engage in constructive dialogue and discussions on Ukraine conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We are open to a constructive dialogue with all those who want peace based on the principles of justice and consideration of the legitimate interests of the parties,” Putin said, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Meeting with African leaders</strong></h2>

<p>The African&nbsp;leaders from South Africa, Senegal, Egypt, Zambia, Uganda, Congo Republic, and the Comoro Islands were in the meeting. These leaders had previously visited the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv and met Volodymyr Zelensky, before their meeting with President Putin.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stoltenberg-expected-to-be-asked-to-extend-another-term-as-nato-chief-amid-replacement-challenges-605543">Stoltenberg expected to be asked to extend another term as NATO Chief amid replacement challenges</a></p>

<p>South African President Cyril Ramaphosa presented his stance before Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasising the urgent need for the conflict in Ukraine to come to an end.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He stressed that the war should be resolved through negotiations and diplomatic means. President Ramaphosa highlighted the negative impact of the ongoing conflict not only on the African continent but also on numerous countries worldwide.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shehbaz-sharif-calls-on-nawaz-sharif-to-become-pakistan-pm-again-lead-election-campaign-605527">Shehbaz Sharif calls on Nawaz Sharif to become Pakistan PM again, lead election campaign</a></p>

<p>"This war has to have an end... It must be settled through negotiations and through diplomatic means. This war is having a negative impact on the African continent and indeed on many other countries around the world," he said as per reports.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Significance for Africa's food supply</strong></h2>

<p>The peace mission undertaken by African leaders holds significant importance for Africa, as the region heavily relies on food and fertilizer deliveries from both Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-targets-unity-in-thought-with-campaign-on-xis-philosophy-605510/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The war has caused disruptions to exports from one of the world's key sources of agricultural produce, affecting food security and supply chains.</p>

<h2><strong>African leaders advocate for peace&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>African leaders, including Senegalese President Macky Sall, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, and Comoros President Azali Assoumani, who currently heads the African Union, expressed their desire for peace between Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They firmly believed that dialogue and negotiations were the key to achieving a peaceful resolution.</p>

<h2><strong>Diplomatic efforts in Kyiv</strong></h2>

<p>The African delegation embarked on a diplomatic mission to Kyiv, where they called for peace and expressed their concerns over the impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on Africa. Rising grain prices had adversely affected the continent, prompting the leaders to advocate for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.</p>

<p>"There should be peace through negotiations," Ramaphosa told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ramaphosa cited Nelson Mandela multiple times during a news conference held after talks with Ukrainian President.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"To allow any negotiations with Russia now that the occupier is on our land is to freeze the war, to freeze pain and suffering," Zelensky said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During their visit to Kyiv, the African leaders faced a tense situation as air raid sirens sounded across the city, indicating the detection of incoming Russian missiles. The delegation had to take shelter during this alarming situation.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian air force response</strong></h2>

<p>The Ukrainian Air Force swiftly responded to the missile threat and successfully shot down 12 missiles, including six hypersonic ones. Although there were no reports of damage within the city, seven people, including two children, were wounded according to regional police, as per media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


During a meeting with African leaders at the historic Konstantinovsky Palace, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his appreciation for their balanced approach to the conflict in Ukraine and emphasised Russia's openness to engage in constructive dialogue and discussions on Ukraine conflict.

During a meeting with African leaders at the historic Konstantinovsky Palace, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his appreciation for their balanced approach to the conflict in Ukraine and emphasised Russia's openness to engage in constructive dialogue and discussions on Ukraine conflict. “We are open to a constructive dialogue with all those who want peace based on the principles of justice and consideration of the legitimate interests of the parties,” Putin said, reported Reuters. Meeting with African leaders The African leaders from South Africa, Senegal, Egypt, Zambia, Uganda, Congo Republic, and the Comoro Islands were in the meeting. These leaders had previously visited the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv and met Volodymyr Zelensky, before their meeting with President Putin. Also Read | Stoltenberg expected to be asked to extend another term as NATO Chief amid replacement challenges South African President Cyril Ramaphosa presented his stance before Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasising the urgent need for the conflict in Ukraine to come to an end. He stressed that the war should be resolved through negotiations and diplomatic means. President Ramaphosa highlighted the negative impact of the ongoing conflict not only on the African continent but also on numerous countries worldwide. Also Read | Shehbaz Sharif calls on Nawaz Sharif to become Pakistan PM again, lead election campaign "This war has to have an end... It must be settled through negotiations and through diplomatic means. This war is having a negative impact on the African continent and indeed on many other countries around the world," he said as per reports. Significance for Africa's food supply The peace mission undertaken by African leaders holds significant importance for Africa, as the region heavily relies on food and fertilizer deliveries from both Russia and Ukraine. Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy × The war has caused disruptions to exports from one of the world's key sources of agricultural produce, affecting food security and supply chains. African leaders advocate for peace African leaders, including Senegalese President Macky Sall, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, and Comoros President Azali Assoumani, who currently heads the African Union, expressed their desire for peace between Russia and Ukraine. They firmly believed that dialogue and negotiations were the key to achieving a peaceful resolution. Diplomatic efforts in Kyiv The African delegation embarked on a diplomatic mission to Kyiv, where they called for peace and expressed their concerns over the impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on Africa. Rising grain prices had adversely affected the continent, prompting the leaders to advocate for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. "There should be peace through negotiations," Ramaphosa told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Ramaphosa cited Nelson Mandela multiple times during a news conference held after talks with Ukrainian President. "To allow any negotiations with Russia now that the occupier is on our land is to freeze the war, to freeze pain and suffering," Zelensky said. During their visit to Kyiv, the African leaders faced a tense situation as air raid sirens sounded across the city, indicating the detection of incoming Russian missiles. The delegation had to take shelter during this alarming situation. Ukrainian air force response The Ukrainian Air Force swiftly responded to the missile threat and successfully shot down 12 missiles, including six hypersonic ones. Although there were no reports of damage within the city, seven people, including two children, were wounded according to regional police, as per media reports. (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. ×

'Open for dialogue on Ukraine', Putin tells African leaders, welcomes their balanced approach on conflict

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidjXjm7hdfxRip" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Germany has run down its stocks of explosive artillery shells, having provided Ukraine with the stocks for its defence ever since the war began. The European nation has only 20,000 artillery shells left, Reuters reported on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to confidential defence ministry papers accessed by the magazine <em>Der Spiegel</em>, the budget committee is currently being convinced of the need for urgent purchases.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry is expected to lay out&nbsp;nine contracts for the accelerated purchase of artillery and tank ammunition in the coming months to the budget committee, <em>Der Spiegel</em> wrote.</p>

<p>After Russia invaded Ukraine, Germany rushed supplies of 155-millimetre artillery rounds used by howitzers&nbsp;to Kyiv - leading to the dip in numbers.</p>

<p>The German military needs to build up an inventory of 230,000 shells by 2031 to comply with NATO goals. According to the security bloc, this is the minimum amount required to withstand 30 days of intensive combat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was earlier this year that the European Union agreed to deliver one million 155-millimetre shells to Ukraine over the next 12 months. However, experts are of the view that such an amount could easily be used up within five months, perhaps even in three, putting additional pressure on the EU, especially Germany.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-counteroffensive-leads-to-advancements-in-southern-region-russia-ukraine-war-605765"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine: Counteroffensive leads to advancements in Southern region | Russia-Ukraine War</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-counteroffensive-leads-to-advancements-in-southern-region-russia-ukraine-war-605765/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-administration-cannot-account-for-hundreds-of-millions-of-dollars-spent-on-weapons-report-606380#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<h2><strong>Cascading effects of the weapon&nbsp;depletion&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The depletion of arms in Germany could have cascading effects. Ukraine, which is currently dependent on Western nations, including Germany for weapons, would be caught in a frightening situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A recent NYT report stated Kyiv is hard-pressed for weapons whilst simultaneously being clueless about the millions it has spent to access those arms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Ukrainian government documents show that as of the end of last year, Kyiv had paid arms suppliers more than $800 million since the Russian invasion in February 2022 for contracts that went completely or partly unfulfilled," the publication noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-administration-cannot-account-for-hundreds-of-millions-of-dollars-spent-on-weapons-report-606380" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Zelensky administration cannot account for 'hundreds of millions of dollars' spent on weapons: Repor</strong></a>t</p>

<p>Notably, at any instance, over 30 per cent of Kyiv's arsenal is under repair. In its battle with Russia, such a high rate of weapon failure is non-negotiable and can potentially be the difference in eventual win or defeat.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Germany not pushing on under Scholz</strong></h2>

<p>Last year, Chancellor Olaf Scholz gave the "Zeitenwende" (turning of the times) speech in the German parliament in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. During the speech, he announced that the German military would receive a fund of 100 billion euros to be upgraded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, a year into the speech, it looks like Scholz might be struggling massively. The country has entered a recession and its weapons arsenal is plummeting by the second.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Germany has run down its stocks of explosive artillery shells, having provided Ukraine with the stocks for its defence ever since the war began. The European nation has only 20,000 artillery shells left, Reuters reported on Tuesday.

Germany has run down its stocks of explosive artillery shells, having provided Ukraine with the stocks for its defence ever since the war began. The European nation has only 20,000 artillery shells left, Reuters reported on Tuesday. According to confidential defence ministry papers accessed by the magazine Der Spiegel, the budget committee is currently being convinced of the need for urgent purchases. The ministry is expected to lay out nine contracts for the accelerated purchase of artillery and tank ammunition in the coming months to the budget committee, Der Spiegel wrote. After Russia invaded Ukraine, Germany rushed supplies of 155-millimetre artillery rounds used by howitzers to Kyiv - leading to the dip in numbers. The German military needs to build up an inventory of 230,000 shells by 2031 to comply with NATO goals. According to the security bloc, this is the minimum amount required to withstand 30 days of intensive combat. It was earlier this year that the European Union agreed to deliver one million 155-millimetre shells to Ukraine over the next 12 months. However, experts are of the view that such an amount could easily be used up within five months, perhaps even in three, putting additional pressure on the EU, especially Germany. WATCH | Ukraine: Counteroffensive leads to advancements in Southern region | Russia-Ukraine War × Cascading effects of the weapon depletion The depletion of arms in Germany could have cascading effects. Ukraine, which is currently dependent on Western nations, including Germany for weapons, would be caught in a frightening situation. A recent NYT report stated Kyiv is hard-pressed for weapons whilst simultaneously being clueless about the millions it has spent to access those arms. "Ukrainian government documents show that as of the end of last year, Kyiv had paid arms suppliers more than $800 million since the Russian invasion in February 2022 for contracts that went completely or partly unfulfilled," the publication noted. Also read | Zelensky administration cannot account for 'hundreds of millions of dollars' spent on weapons: Report Notably, at any instance, over 30 per cent of Kyiv's arsenal is under repair. In its battle with Russia, such a high rate of weapon failure is non-negotiable and can potentially be the difference in eventual win or defeat. Germany not pushing on under Scholz Last year, Chancellor Olaf Scholz gave the "Zeitenwende" (turning of the times) speech in the German parliament in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. During the speech, he announced that the German military would receive a fund of 100 billion euros to be upgraded. However, a year into the speech, it looks like Scholz might be struggling massively. The country has entered a recession and its weapons arsenal is plummeting by the second. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Germany running out of explosive artillery shells, having provided it in bulk to Kyiv: Report

<p>A Russia-installed official, on Sunday (June 18) acknowledged that Ukrainian forces have recaptured Piatykhatky village in the southern Zapororizhzhia region, in what might be the second&nbsp;reported gains in the region since Kyiv began its counteroffensive, earlier this month. Meanwhile, both Ukrainian and Russian officials have reported a rise in the death toll after the destruction of the Kakhovka dam.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>D<strong>eath toll due to Kakhovka dam breach rises</strong></h2>

<p>The death toll from the floods due to the destruction of the Kakhovka dam rose to 16 in Ukraine, said the officials in Kyiv. Meanwhile, a Russia-installed official in the Moscow-occupied parts of the Kherson region, Andrei Alekseyenko, took to Telegram and said at least 29 people have lost their lives due to the flood, as of late Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Ukrainian interior ministry, in a statement also said that more than 3,600 people have been evacuated from the flooded areas in the Kherson and Mykolaiv regions and some 31 were still missing. Additionally, as of late Saturday, at least 1,300 were flooded, said the Ukrainian officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The destruction of the Soviet-era dam on the Dnipro River has prompted the evacuation of thousands of people after it unleashed a flood in several parts of southern Ukraine and in Russia-occupied parts of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While, both Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of destroying the dam, a team of international legal experts who are helping prosecutors in Kyiv with the investigation, in their preliminary findings on Friday said it was “highly likely” that the collapse of the Soviet-era dam was caused by explosives planted by Russians.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian forces reportedly take over another village</strong></h2>

<p>In what might be the second gain&nbsp;for the Ukrainian forces along the southern Zaporizhzhia region front, a Russian-installed official Vladimir Rogov reported that Kyiv has taken over the settlement of Piatykhatky. Rogov took to Telegram and said Ukrainian forces have entrenched themselves there while coming under fire from Russian troops.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The enemy’s ‘wave-like’ offensives yielded results, despite enormous losses,” said the Russian official, adding that heavy fighting continues in the area. The claim was not immediately confirmed by Kyiv. This also comes days after&nbsp;Ukraine said it regained&nbsp;control of&nbsp;Lobkove, a village adjacent to Piatykhatky in Zaporizhzhia region.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, the Russian defence ministry, in a statement on Sunday said&nbsp;its forces had repelled a series of Ukrainian attacks across three sections of the front line with "most active actions" in&nbsp;Zaporizhzhia direction while also mentioning&nbsp;attempts to attack in the&nbsp;South-Donetsk and Donetsk directions. However, the ministry did not confirm the Russian-installed official's claim.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine claims to have destroyed ‘significant’ ammunition depot in Kherso</strong>n</h2>

<p>A spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, Serhiy Bratchuk, on Sunday, claimed that Ukrainian forces have destroyed a “significant” ammunition depot near the Russian-occupied port city of Henichesk in Kherson. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In a video message, Bratchuk, said, “Our armed forces dealt a good blow in the morning - and a very loud one - in the village of Rykove, Henichesk district, in the temporarily occupied territory of the Kherson region.” He added, “There was a very significant ammunition depot. It was destroyed.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


A Russia-installed official, on Sunday (June 18) acknowledged that Ukrainian forces have recaptured Piatykhatky village in the southern Zapororizhzhia region, in what might be the second reported gains in the region since Kyiv began its counteroffensive, earlier this month.

A Russia-installed official, on Sunday (June 18) acknowledged that Ukrainian forces have recaptured Piatykhatky village in the southern Zapororizhzhia region, in what might be the second reported gains in the region since Kyiv began its counteroffensive, earlier this month. Meanwhile, both Ukrainian and Russian officials have reported a rise in the death toll after the destruction of the Kakhovka dam. Death toll due to Kakhovka dam breach rises The death toll from the floods due to the destruction of the Kakhovka dam rose to 16 in Ukraine, said the officials in Kyiv. Meanwhile, a Russia-installed official in the Moscow-occupied parts of the Kherson region, Andrei Alekseyenko, took to Telegram and said at least 29 people have lost their lives due to the flood, as of late Saturday. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian interior ministry, in a statement also said that more than 3,600 people have been evacuated from the flooded areas in the Kherson and Mykolaiv regions and some 31 were still missing. Additionally, as of late Saturday, at least 1,300 were flooded, said the Ukrainian officials. The destruction of the Soviet-era dam on the Dnipro River has prompted the evacuation of thousands of people after it unleashed a flood in several parts of southern Ukraine and in Russia-occupied parts of Ukraine. While, both Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of destroying the dam, a team of international legal experts who are helping prosecutors in Kyiv with the investigation, in their preliminary findings on Friday said it was “highly likely” that the collapse of the Soviet-era dam was caused by explosives planted by Russians. Ukrainian forces reportedly take over another village In what might be the second gain for the Ukrainian forces along the southern Zaporizhzhia region front, a Russian-installed official Vladimir Rogov reported that Kyiv has taken over the settlement of Piatykhatky. Rogov took to Telegram and said Ukrainian forces have entrenched themselves there while coming under fire from Russian troops. “The enemy’s ‘wave-like’ offensives yielded results, despite enormous losses,” said the Russian official, adding that heavy fighting continues in the area. The claim was not immediately confirmed by Kyiv. This also comes days after Ukraine said it regained control of Lobkove, a village adjacent to Piatykhatky in Zaporizhzhia region. Meanwhile, the Russian defence ministry, in a statement on Sunday said its forces had repelled a series of Ukrainian attacks across three sections of the front line with "most active actions" in Zaporizhzhia direction while also mentioning attempts to attack in the South-Donetsk and Donetsk directions. However, the ministry did not confirm the Russian-installed official's claim. Ukraine claims to have destroyed ‘significant’ ammunition depot in Kherson A spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, Serhiy Bratchuk, on Sunday, claimed that Ukrainian forces have destroyed a “significant” ammunition depot near the Russian-occupied port city of Henichesk in Kherson. In a video message, Bratchuk, said, “Our armed forces dealt a good blow in the morning - and a very loud one - in the village of Rykove, Henichesk district, in the temporarily occupied territory of the Kherson region.” He added, “There was a very significant ammunition depot. It was destroyed.” (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.

Death toll in Kakhovka dam collapse increases to 45; Ukraine recaptures another village

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused Ukraine of signing a peace treaty with Russia to end the ongoing war and throwing it into the 'garbage of history' shortly after that. Putin's comments came during a meeting with the leaders of African Union spearheaded by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at St. Petersberg's historic Konstantinovsky Palace on Saturday, June 17.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meeting included leaders from South Africa, Senegal, Egypt, Zambia, Uganda, Congo Republic, and the Comoro Islands. These leaders had previously visited the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, before their meeting with President Putin.</p>

<h2><strong>Africa's pitch for peace between Russia and Ukraine: What did Putin say?</strong></h2>

<p>Putin said that in the spring of 2022 — when the war between Russia and Ukraine was in its initial phase — a peace treaty was signed by the leader of negotiation group from the Ukrainian side and his Russian counterpart in Istanbul.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Turkey hosted a series of negotiations starting in the spring of 2022 to help develop "trust" between the two warring sides.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Turkey pushes for Russia- Ukraine peace talks</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkey-pushes-for-russia-ukraine-peace-talks-549802/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"It was called Treaty of permanent neutrality and security guarantees of Ukraine," Putin said, after flapping the supposed draft of the treaty in air, stating: "We never agreed with the Ukrainian side that the text will be confidential but we never showed it before nor commented on it."</p>

<p>"This draft of the treaty was initialled by the leader of the negotiation group from Kyiv. He put his signature. There it exists," he added while showing the supposed draft of the treaty.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian side has not reacted on Putin's comments.</p>

<p>The peace agreement was purportedly based on the condition that Moscow withdraws its troops from Kyiv.&nbsp;Alongside, it specified the number of troops to be stationed in other parts of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇷🇺‼️Putin: "Peace was signed between Ukraine and Russia in the spring of 2022."‼️<br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Putin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Putin</a> publicly showed the previously unpublished document in front of South African President Ramaphosa.<br />
<br />
(Nato reportedly sent disgraced US puppet Boris Johnson to force Kiev to back down.) <a href="https://t.co/DQ4stmvAD3">pic.twitter.com/DQ4stmvAD3</a></p>
— Djole 🇷🇸 (@onlydjole) <a href="https://twitter.com/onlydjole/status/1670141702797967361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The peace agreement was immediately discarded by Ukraine as soon as Russia obliged the request and withdrew troops from Kyiv, Putin accused.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Where are the guarantees that they will not renounce any other agreements in the future?," he asked.</p>

<p>The peace mission undertaken by African leaders holds significant importance for Africa, as the region heavily relies on food and fertiliser deliveries from both Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Then Zelensky signed decree forbidding negotiations with Russia and ver fake back for talks. <a href="https://t.co/v3Hv6NsAMM">pic.twitter.com/v3Hv6NsAMM</a></p>
— Lord Bebo (@MyLordBebo) <a href="https://twitter.com/MyLordBebo/status/1670125910815547400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The war has caused disruptions to exports from one of the world's key sources of agricultural produce, affecting food security and supply chains.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused Ukraine of signing a peace treaty with Russia to end the ongoing war and throwing it into the 'garbage of history' shortly after that.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused Ukraine of signing a peace treaty with Russia to end the ongoing war and throwing it into the 'garbage of history' shortly after that. Putin's comments came during a meeting with the leaders of African Union spearheaded by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at St. Petersberg's historic Konstantinovsky Palace on Saturday, June 17. The meeting included leaders from South Africa, Senegal, Egypt, Zambia, Uganda, Congo Republic, and the Comoro Islands. These leaders had previously visited the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, before their meeting with President Putin. Africa's pitch for peace between Russia and Ukraine: What did Putin say? Putin said that in the spring of 2022 — when the war between Russia and Ukraine was in its initial phase — a peace treaty was signed by the leader of negotiation group from the Ukrainian side and his Russian counterpart in Istanbul. Turkey hosted a series of negotiations starting in the spring of 2022 to help develop "trust" between the two warring sides. Also watch | Turkey pushes for Russia- Ukraine peace talks × "It was called Treaty of permanent neutrality and security guarantees of Ukraine," Putin said, after flapping the supposed draft of the treaty in air, stating: "We never agreed with the Ukrainian side that the text will be confidential but we never showed it before nor commented on it." "This draft of the treaty was initialled by the leader of the negotiation group from Kyiv. He put his signature. There it exists," he added while showing the supposed draft of the treaty. The Ukrainian side has not reacted on Putin's comments. The peace agreement was purportedly based on the condition that Moscow withdraws its troops from Kyiv. Alongside, it specified the number of troops to be stationed in other parts of Ukraine. 🇷🇺‼️Putin: "Peace was signed between Ukraine and Russia in the spring of 2022."‼️ #Putin publicly showed the previously unpublished document in front of South African President Ramaphosa. (Nato reportedly sent disgraced US puppet Boris Johnson to force Kiev to back down.) pic.twitter.com/DQ4stmvAD3 — Djole 🇷🇸 (@onlydjole) June 17, 2023 × The peace agreement was immediately discarded by Ukraine as soon as Russia obliged the request and withdrew troops from Kyiv, Putin accused. "Where are the guarantees that they will not renounce any other agreements in the future?," he asked. The peace mission undertaken by African leaders holds significant importance for Africa, as the region heavily relies on food and fertiliser deliveries from both Russia and Ukraine. Then Zelensky signed decree forbidding negotiations with Russia and ver fake back for talks. pic.twitter.com/v3Hv6NsAMM — Lord Bebo (@MyLordBebo) June 17, 2023 × The war has caused disruptions to exports from one of the world's key sources of agricultural produce, affecting food security and supply chains. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin says Ukraine signed peace treaty with Russia in spring of 2022, then threw it into 'garbage of history'

<p>Russian air defence units successfully repelled a drone attack carried out by Ukrainian forces targeting a pumping station on the Druzhba oil pipeline located in the area, reported Reuters quoting Alexander Bogomaz, the governor of the Bryansk region, which borders Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In recent weeks, Ukrainian drone attacks inside Russia have been increasing in intensity. Three Ukrainian military drones were destroyed during the attack in the Novozybkov district in Bryansk Oblast, Bogomaz said on Telegram. These drone attacks have been occurring more frequently in recent weeks, often focusing on energy facilities. While Russia attributes the attacks to Ukraine, Kyiv has not publicly claimed responsibility for them.</p>

<h2><strong>Druzhba pipeline and its importance</strong></h2>

<p>The Druzhba oil pipeline, capable of pumping over 2 million barrels per day (bpd), stands as a major global pipeline, providing Russian oil to numerous Eastern and Central European nations. The southern branch of the Druzhba pipeline, which was established during the Soviet era, traverses Ukraine and continues to supply crude oil to Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stoltenberg-expected-to-be-asked-to-extend-another-term-as-nato-chief-amid-replacement-challenges-605543">Stoltenberg expected to be asked to extend another term as NATO Chief amid replacement challenges</a></p>

<p>Unfortunately, due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the pipeline has faced multiple disruptions. In the past, the supply to Hungary and Slovakia through the pipeline's southern branch was temporarily halted. Despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the pipeline remains operational, serving as a crucial energy route for these countries.</p>

<p>Russian officials and media reported that Ukraine launched drone attacks on oil pipeline installations within Russian territory in late May, including a station that serves the Druzhba pipeline. The attacks were accompanied by shelling from Ukraine, which resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals, according to Russian sources quoted by reports.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>EU proposes halt of Russian oil supplies via Druzhba pipeline</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>In May, European Union (EU) put forward a proposal to officially cease the supply of Russian oil through the northern section of the Druzhba pipeline to Germany and Poland, as per documents seen by Bloomberg.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shehbaz-sharif-calls-on-nawaz-sharif-to-become-pakistan-pm-again-lead-election-campaign-605527">Shehbaz Sharif calls on Nawaz Sharif to become Pakistan PM again, lead election campaign</a></p>

<p>Previously, these countries were allowed to receive Russian oil under a derogation of EU sanctions. However, exemptions permitting the flow of oil through the southern branch of the pipeline, which supplies Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic, will remain unaffected.</p>

<h2><strong>No ban on Kazakh oil, imports from third countries</strong></h2>

<p>According to Bloomberg's report, there is no discussion regarding the prohibition of Kazakh oil flowing through the Druzhba pipeline after the suspension of Russian oil deliveries.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-targets-unity-in-thought-with-campaign-on-xis-philosophy-605510/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Furthermore, imports originating from other third countries, even if the oil transits via Russia, are permitted under the current proposal.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Russian air defence units successfully repelled a drone attack carried out by Ukrainian forces targeting a pumping station on the Druzhba oil pipeline located in the area, reported Reuters quoting Alexander Bogomaz, the governor of the Bryansk region, which borders Ukraine.

Russian air defence units successfully repelled a drone attack carried out by Ukrainian forces targeting a pumping station on the Druzhba oil pipeline located in the area, reported Reuters quoting Alexander Bogomaz, the governor of the Bryansk region, which borders Ukraine. In recent weeks, Ukrainian drone attacks inside Russia have been increasing in intensity. Three Ukrainian military drones were destroyed during the attack in the Novozybkov district in Bryansk Oblast, Bogomaz said on Telegram. These drone attacks have been occurring more frequently in recent weeks, often focusing on energy facilities. While Russia attributes the attacks to Ukraine, Kyiv has not publicly claimed responsibility for them. Druzhba pipeline and its importance The Druzhba oil pipeline, capable of pumping over 2 million barrels per day (bpd), stands as a major global pipeline, providing Russian oil to numerous Eastern and Central European nations. The southern branch of the Druzhba pipeline, which was established during the Soviet era, traverses Ukraine and continues to supply crude oil to Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic. Also Read | Stoltenberg expected to be asked to extend another term as NATO Chief amid replacement challenges Unfortunately, due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the pipeline has faced multiple disruptions. In the past, the supply to Hungary and Slovakia through the pipeline's southern branch was temporarily halted. Despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the pipeline remains operational, serving as a crucial energy route for these countries. Russian officials and media reported that Ukraine launched drone attacks on oil pipeline installations within Russian territory in late May, including a station that serves the Druzhba pipeline. The attacks were accompanied by shelling from Ukraine, which resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals, according to Russian sources quoted by reports. EU proposes halt of Russian oil supplies via Druzhba pipeline In May, European Union (EU) put forward a proposal to officially cease the supply of Russian oil through the northern section of the Druzhba pipeline to Germany and Poland, as per documents seen by Bloomberg. Also Read | Shehbaz Sharif calls on Nawaz Sharif to become Pakistan PM again, lead election campaign Previously, these countries were allowed to receive Russian oil under a derogation of EU sanctions. However, exemptions permitting the flow of oil through the southern branch of the pipeline, which supplies Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic, will remain unaffected. No ban on Kazakh oil, imports from third countries According to Bloomberg's report, there is no discussion regarding the prohibition of Kazakh oil flowing through the Druzhba pipeline after the suspension of Russian oil deliveries. Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy × Furthermore, imports originating from other third countries, even if the oil transits via Russia, are permitted under the current proposal. 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 thwarts drone attack on Druzhba oil pipeline station near Ukraine border

<p>An African delegation led by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in Ukraine in a bid to broker peace talks with Russia, but, according to AFP, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made it clear that his country won’t engage in any peace process with the invading nation.</p>

<p>"I clearly said several times at our meeting that to allow any negotiations with Russia now that the occupier is on our land is to freeze the war, to freeze pain and suffering," Zelensky was quoted as saying by several media reports.</p>

<p>Ramaphosa reportedly called on both Ukraine and Russia to end the hostilities immediately for fostering peace. He said, “This war must be settled, and there should be peace through negotiations."</p>

<h2><strong>Russia ‘welcomes’ delegation with explosions in Kyiv</strong></h2>

<p>Even as the African delegation, including leaders of Senegal, Egypt, Zambia, South Africa, and Comoros, arrived in Ukraine on Friday, they were greeted by Russia with explosions and missile attacks on the capital city of Kyiv. According to CNN, airstrikes were so intense that the leaders were immediately rushed to bunkers.</p>

<p>The delegation is set to visit Russia on Saturday to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.<br />
<br />
Andriy Yermak, head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, revealed that the attacks on Kyiv coincided with the visit by the African delegation. “Putin wants to demonstrate that he is ready to disregard the security of foreign leaders, he doesn’t really care, because he feels complete impunity. And anyone can be in the place of African leaders,” Yermak said.</p>

<h2><strong>United Africa to broker peace between Russia, Ukraine?</strong></h2>

<p>African leaders are visiting Ukraine and Russia in the wake of the rising energy and food crisis across the African continent, prompting the African leaders to take the peace deal initiative.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Explosions rock Kyiv as African delegation arrives in Ukraine to begin peace mission</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/explosions-rock-kyiv-as-african-delegation-arrives-in-ukraine-to-begin-peace-mission-605218/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>“Ramaphosa’s office described the peace initiative as “the first time that Africa is united behind the resolution of a conflict outside of our continent, and where you have a group of African heads of state and government travelling together in an attempt to find a path to peace to this conflict.”</p>

<h2><strong>Economic impact of the war on Africa</strong></h2>

<p>South Africa’s presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said that the end of the war will not only end the sufferings of millions of Ukrainians but will also alleviate concerns around food and energy safety in African nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-explosions-rock-kyiv-as-african-leaders-begins-peace-mission-605186"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Putin says Ukraine offensive stands `no chance`</strong></a></p>

<p>“As you all know, Africa has been severely impacted by this conflict in terms of food insecurity, the price of grain, the price of fertiliser, but equally, this mission says to seek a road to peace that will alleviate the suffering that is being experienced by people in Ukraine,” he said.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


An African delegation led by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in Ukraine in a bid to broker peace talks with Russia, but, according to AFP, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made it clear that his country won’t engage in any peace process with the invading nation.

An African delegation led by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in Ukraine in a bid to broker peace talks with Russia, but, according to AFP, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made it clear that his country won’t engage in any peace process with the invading nation. "I clearly said several times at our meeting that to allow any negotiations with Russia now that the occupier is on our land is to freeze the war, to freeze pain and suffering," Zelensky was quoted as saying by several media reports. Ramaphosa reportedly called on both Ukraine and Russia to end the hostilities immediately for fostering peace. He said, “This war must be settled, and there should be peace through negotiations." Russia ‘welcomes’ delegation with explosions in Kyiv Even as the African delegation, including leaders of Senegal, Egypt, Zambia, South Africa, and Comoros, arrived in Ukraine on Friday, they were greeted by Russia with explosions and missile attacks on the capital city of Kyiv. According to CNN, airstrikes were so intense that the leaders were immediately rushed to bunkers. The delegation is set to visit Russia on Saturday to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Andriy Yermak, head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, revealed that the attacks on Kyiv coincided with the visit by the African delegation. “Putin wants to demonstrate that he is ready to disregard the security of foreign leaders, he doesn’t really care, because he feels complete impunity. And anyone can be in the place of African leaders,” Yermak said. United Africa to broker peace between Russia, Ukraine? African leaders are visiting Ukraine and Russia in the wake of the rising energy and food crisis across the African continent, prompting the African leaders to take the peace deal initiative. Watch: Explosions rock Kyiv as African delegation arrives in Ukraine to begin peace mission × “Ramaphosa’s office described the peace initiative as “the first time that Africa is united behind the resolution of a conflict outside of our continent, and where you have a group of African heads of state and government travelling together in an attempt to find a path to peace to this conflict.” Economic impact of the war on Africa South Africa’s presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said that the end of the war will not only end the sufferings of millions of Ukrainians but will also alleviate concerns around food and energy safety in African nations. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Putin says Ukraine offensive stands `no chance` “As you all know, Africa has been severely impacted by this conflict in terms of food insecurity, the price of grain, the price of fertiliser, but equally, this mission says to seek a road to peace that will alleviate the suffering that is being experienced by people in Ukraine,” he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Zelensky rejects peace talks offer with Russia as African delegation visits Kyiv

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman meets French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. The French President is expected to nudge the de-facto leader of the oil-rich kingdom into more full-throttled support for Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine War: Saudi has maintained a cautious stance

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday (June 13) that he believed Ukraine was responsible for the breach last week of the Kakhovka dam. While speaking during a televised meeting of Russian war correspondents and military bloggers, Putin said that the damage has been caused by Kyiv shelling the structure with HIMARS missile systems, which were supplied by the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said, "They used HIMARS rockets deliberately and many times to hit Kakhovka dam - that's the point. Maybe they had some kind of plant there. I don't know."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "Maybe they added something insignificant once again - and destruction began. As we understand - we are not interested in this (Kakhovka dam destruction) for sure, because there are harsh consequences for territories we control and that are Russian."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The hydroelectric dam was ripped open earlier this month after a reported blast and in the aftermath, Moscow and Kyiv have traded blame for the attack, which caused tensions as the Kakhovka dam sits on the Dnipro River which feeds a reservoir providing cooling water for the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thousands of civilians were forced to flee the flooded areas while raising fears of an ecological disaster after the destruction of the dam caused torrents of water to pour into the Dnipro.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-fsb-arrests-former-defence-industry-workers-suspected-of-spying-for-ukraines-military-intelligence-603962">Russia's FSB arrests former defence industry workers suspected of spying for Ukraine's military intelligence</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Same as Ukrainian officials, Putin also mentioned that rescue efforts were continuing in flooded areas of Kherson under Russian control as he said that the Russian Emergencies Ministry has been working there.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said that military and local authorities are also doing rescue work. He said, "I've recently talked to the acting head of the Kherson region (Russian-controlled Ukraine territory) Vladimir Saldo. He said they were surprised. Because they had never seen such collaborative work (in Kherson)".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin speaks about recent border attacks&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Putin said Moscow could have more successfully readied southern regions of the country bordering Ukraine for cross-border attacks from Ukrainian territory. He referred to the recent cross-border attacks on Russia's southern region of Belgorod and said that "of course, there is nothing good in this".</p>

<p>Putin added, "But, in principle, one could have assumed that the enemy would behave this way, and one could have prepared better."</p>

<p>Speaking further, Putin said that there was no need to follow Ukraine's example and declare martial law, but he added that the nation must fight enemy agents and improve its defences against attacks deep inside its own territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Kyiv claims to retaken ground from Russian forces&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-claims-to-retaken-ground-from-russian-forces-604064/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's losses close to 'catastrophic'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Putin claimed that Ukraine was suffering massive losses in its highly touted counter-offensive against Russian positions in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Their losses are approaching a level that could be described as catastrophic," Putin said during a meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-four-israeli-soldiers-one-civilian-injured-after-shooting-incident-in-west-bank-604028">At least four Israeli soldiers, one civilian injured after shooting incident in West Bank</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Russia to ditch grain deal?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Putin also said that Russia was considering withdrawing from the Black Sea grain deal because the West had cheated Moscow by implementing none of the promises to get Russian agricultural goods to world markets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are thinking about getting out of this grain deal now. Unfortunately, we were once again cheated - nothing was done in terms of liberalising the supply of our grain to foreign markets. There were a lot of conditions that the Westerners had to fulfil under the leadership of the UN," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Nothing has been done," Putin added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The grain deal is crucial as it allowed Ukraine to resume seaborne grain exports was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in July last year to help tackle a global food crisis.&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>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday (June 13) that he believed Ukraine was responsible for the breach last week of the Kakhovka dam. While speaking during a televised meeting of Russian war correspondents and military bloggers, Putin said that the damage has been caused by Kyiv shelling the structure with HIMARS missile systems, which were supplied by the United States.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday (June 13) that he believed Ukraine was responsible for the breach last week of the Kakhovka dam. While speaking during a televised meeting of Russian war correspondents and military bloggers, Putin said that the damage has been caused by Kyiv shelling the structure with HIMARS missile systems, which were supplied by the United States. Putin said, "They used HIMARS rockets deliberately and many times to hit Kakhovka dam - that's the point. Maybe they had some kind of plant there. I don't know." He added, "Maybe they added something insignificant once again - and destruction began. As we understand - we are not interested in this (Kakhovka dam destruction) for sure, because there are harsh consequences for territories we control and that are Russian." The hydroelectric dam was ripped open earlier this month after a reported blast and in the aftermath, Moscow and Kyiv have traded blame for the attack, which caused tensions as the Kakhovka dam sits on the Dnipro River which feeds a reservoir providing cooling water for the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station. Thousands of civilians were forced to flee the flooded areas while raising fears of an ecological disaster after the destruction of the dam caused torrents of water to pour into the Dnipro. Also read: Russia's FSB arrests former defence industry workers suspected of spying for Ukraine's military intelligence Same as Ukrainian officials, Putin also mentioned that rescue efforts were continuing in flooded areas of Kherson under Russian control as he said that the Russian Emergencies Ministry has been working there. Putin said that military and local authorities are also doing rescue work. He said, "I've recently talked to the acting head of the Kherson region (Russian-controlled Ukraine territory) Vladimir Saldo. He said they were surprised. Because they had never seen such collaborative work (in Kherson)". Putin speaks about recent border attacks Putin said Moscow could have more successfully readied southern regions of the country bordering Ukraine for cross-border attacks from Ukrainian territory. He referred to the recent cross-border attacks on Russia's southern region of Belgorod and said that "of course, there is nothing good in this". Putin added, "But, in principle, one could have assumed that the enemy would behave this way, and one could have prepared better." Speaking further, Putin said that there was no need to follow Ukraine's example and declare martial law, but he added that the nation must fight enemy agents and improve its defences against attacks deep inside its own territory. Watch: Kyiv claims to retaken ground from Russian forces × Ukraine's losses close to 'catastrophic' Putin claimed that Ukraine was suffering massive losses in its highly touted counter-offensive against Russian positions in Ukraine. "Their losses are approaching a level that could be described as catastrophic," Putin said during a meeting. Also read: At least four Israeli soldiers, one civilian injured after shooting incident in West Bank Russia to ditch grain deal? Putin also said that Russia was considering withdrawing from the Black Sea grain deal because the West had cheated Moscow by implementing none of the promises to get Russian agricultural goods to world markets. "We are thinking about getting out of this grain deal now. Unfortunately, we were once again cheated - nothing was done in terms of liberalising the supply of our grain to foreign markets. There were a lot of conditions that the Westerners had to fulfil under the leadership of the UN," he said. "Nothing has been done," Putin added. The grain deal is crucial as it allowed Ukraine to resume seaborne grain exports was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in July last year to help tackle a global food crisis. 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.

Putin claims Ukraine deliberately hit Kakhovka dam with HIMARS rockets

<p>Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has said that his country has started taking delivery of Russian tactical nuclear weapons. This announcement came on Wednesday (June 14) and according to some reports citing Lukashenko, some of the weapons were three times more powerful than the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945 by the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts have claimed that the shorter-range less powerful nuclear weapons could potentially be used on the battlefield. In case it happens, it would be the first usage of such warheads outside Russia since the 1991 fall of the Soviet Union.</p>

<p>During an interview with the Rossiya-1 Russian state TV channel, Lukashenko said, "We have missiles and bombs that we have received from Russia."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The bombs are three times more powerful than those (dropped on) Hiroshima and Nagasaki," he said in the interview, which was posted on the Belarusian Belta state news agency's Telegram channel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-holds-quiet-talks-with-iran-to-free-us-prisoners-curb-nuke-programme-604480">Biden administration holds quiet talks with Iran to free US prisoners, curb nuke programme</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As per the report, Lukashenko spoke on a road in a forest clearing with military vehicles parked nearby. In the images, some kind of military storage facility was also visible in the background.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this year in March, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the plan to deploy tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus amid the ongoing Ukraine war, which began when the Russian president ordered a "special military operation" last year in February.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-russia-deploy-depleted-uranium-weapons-russias-top-general-killed-in-strikes-604504/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-wont-support-swedens-nato-bid-unless-anti-turkish-protests-are-stopped-erdogan-604388">Turkey won't support Sweden's NATO bid unless anti-Turkish protests are stopped: Erdogan</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The announcement was criticised by the US and other Western nations, but America said that it has no intention of altering its own stance on strategic nuclear weapons. It was also claimed that so far, there are no signs that Russia is preparing to use a nuclear weapon in the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The interview with the Russian state TV was reportedly released late on Tuesday, where Lukashenko said that his country had numerous nuclear storage facilities left over from the Soviet era&nbsp;and that they had restored five or six of them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Lukashenko played down the idea that Russian control of the weapons was an impediment to using them quickly if he felt such a move was necessary. He said that he and Putin could pick up the phone and talk to each other "at any moment".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What will be the location of these weapons?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Neither Russia nor Belarus revealed the exact location where the "tactical" nuclear weapons would be deployed. But the Federation of American Scientists has said the weapons could be based at the Lida air base, 40 km (25 miles) from the Lithuanian border. Notably, Belarus borders three NATO member countries: Lithuania, Latvia and Poland.&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)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has said that his country has started taking delivery of Russian tactical nuclear weapons. This announcement came on Wednesday (June 14) and according to some reports citing Lukashenko, some of the weapons were three times more powerful than the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945 by the United States.

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has said that his country has started taking delivery of Russian tactical nuclear weapons. This announcement came on Wednesday (June 14) and according to some reports citing Lukashenko, some of the weapons were three times more powerful than the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945 by the United States. Experts have claimed that the shorter-range less powerful nuclear weapons could potentially be used on the battlefield. In case it happens, it would be the first usage of such warheads outside Russia since the 1991 fall of the Soviet Union. During an interview with the Rossiya-1 Russian state TV channel, Lukashenko said, "We have missiles and bombs that we have received from Russia." "The bombs are three times more powerful than those (dropped on) Hiroshima and Nagasaki," he said in the interview, which was posted on the Belarusian Belta state news agency's Telegram channel. Also read: Biden administration holds quiet talks with Iran to free US prisoners, curb nuke programme As per the report, Lukashenko spoke on a road in a forest clearing with military vehicles parked nearby. In the images, some kind of military storage facility was also visible in the background. Earlier this year in March, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the plan to deploy tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus amid the ongoing Ukraine war, which began when the Russian president ordered a "special military operation" last year in February. Watch this report: × Also read: Turkey won't support Sweden's NATO bid unless anti-Turkish protests are stopped: Erdogan The announcement was criticised by the US and other Western nations, but America said that it has no intention of altering its own stance on strategic nuclear weapons. It was also claimed that so far, there are no signs that Russia is preparing to use a nuclear weapon in the war in Ukraine. The interview with the Russian state TV was reportedly released late on Tuesday, where Lukashenko said that his country had numerous nuclear storage facilities left over from the Soviet era and that they had restored five or six of them. Meanwhile, Lukashenko played down the idea that Russian control of the weapons was an impediment to using them quickly if he felt such a move was necessary. He said that he and Putin could pick up the phone and talk to each other "at any moment". What will be the location of these weapons? Neither Russia nor Belarus revealed the exact location where the "tactical" nuclear weapons would be deployed. But the Federation of American Scientists has said the weapons could be based at the Lida air base, 40 km (25 miles) from the Lithuanian border. Notably, Belarus borders three NATO member countries: Lithuania, Latvia and Poland. 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 war: Belarus begins taking delivery of Russian nuclear weapons

<p>The Red Cross said on Wednesday (June 14) that it had visited 1500 prisoners of war (POW) on both sides of the conflict in Ukraine. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has stressed the importance of access to both Russian and Ukrainian POWs.</p>

<p>The ICRC said such visits are of importance to check detention conditions, offering support and sometimes books, hygiene items and other personal necessities. The visits are also vital to relay information between the prisoners and their loved ones.</p>

<p>"For the prisoners of war and their families who have been able to share news, the impact is... immeasurable," Ariane Bauer, ICRC's regional director for Europe and Central Asia, told reporters.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Ukraine's Andriy Yermak dials India's NSA Ajit Doval seeking support for peace plan</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraines-andriy-yermak-dials-indias-nsa-ajit-doval-seeking-support-for-peace-plan-604468/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The ICRC&nbsp;and&nbsp;its partners have till now delivered around 2500 personal messages between POWs and their families in the Ukraine conflict.</p>

<p>The organisation said it had also helped provide around 5,500 families with information on the fate of their loved ones in the conflict.</p>

<p>Visiting the POWs forms the core to ICRC's mission which is enshrined in the Geneva conventions.</p>

<p>Geneva conventions define the laws of war.</p>

<h2><strong>Red Cross not pushing hard enough, feels Zelensky&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeatedly criticised the Red Cross on the ultra-sensitive subject of POW visits. Zelensky has accused the&nbsp;Red Cross of not pushing hard enough to gain access to Ukraine troops who are captured by Russian forces.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-belarus-begins-taking-delivery-of-russian-nuclear-weapons-604512">Ukraine war: Belarus begins taking delivery of Russian nuclear weapons</a></strong></p>

<p>The organisation sees it as a vital part of its mandate to "access prisoners of war on both sides", ICRC president Mirjana Spoljaric told reporters last week.</p>

<p>"We are progressing," she added.</p>

<p>The ICRC has said that it has access to POWs held by Russia including in recent weeks. However, the ICRC has not revealed breakdown of how many POWs on either side of the conflict it has visited on either side&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ICRC never reveals such numbers, nor any details on the conditions it finds in detention centres as part of its unrelenting commitment to neutrality.</p>

<p>Bauer acknowledged that this commitment during times of conflict, particularly Ukraine war, is often "misunderstood".</p>

<p>"Neutrality is not a moral position. It's a tool that helps us work and get access to prisoners of war, to populations in difficult situations," she said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>

<p><strong><em>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</em></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Red Cross said on Wednesday (June 14) that it had visited 1500 prisoners of war (POW) on both sides of the conflict in Ukraine. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has stressed the importance of access to both Russian and Ukrainian POWs.

The Red Cross said on Wednesday (June 14) that it had visited 1500 prisoners of war (POW) on both sides of the conflict in Ukraine. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has stressed the importance of access to both Russian and Ukrainian POWs. The ICRC said such visits are of importance to check detention conditions, offering support and sometimes books, hygiene items and other personal necessities. The visits are also vital to relay information between the prisoners and their loved ones. "For the prisoners of war and their families who have been able to share news, the impact is... immeasurable," Ariane Bauer, ICRC's regional director for Europe and Central Asia, told reporters. Watch | Ukraine's Andriy Yermak dials India's NSA Ajit Doval seeking support for peace plan × The ICRC and its partners have till now delivered around 2500 personal messages between POWs and their families in the Ukraine conflict. The organisation said it had also helped provide around 5,500 families with information on the fate of their loved ones in the conflict. Visiting the POWs forms the core to ICRC's mission which is enshrined in the Geneva conventions. Geneva conventions define the laws of war. Red Cross not pushing hard enough, feels Zelensky Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeatedly criticised the Red Cross on the ultra-sensitive subject of POW visits. Zelensky has accused the Red Cross of not pushing hard enough to gain access to Ukraine troops who are captured by Russian forces. Also Read | Ukraine war: Belarus begins taking delivery of Russian nuclear weapons The organisation sees it as a vital part of its mandate to "access prisoners of war on both sides", ICRC president Mirjana Spoljaric told reporters last week. "We are progressing," she added. The ICRC has said that it has access to POWs held by Russia including in recent weeks. However, the ICRC has not revealed breakdown of how many POWs on either side of the conflict it has visited on either side The ICRC never reveals such numbers, nor any details on the conditions it finds in detention centres as part of its unrelenting commitment to neutrality. Bauer acknowledged that this commitment during times of conflict, particularly Ukraine war, is often "misunderstood". "Neutrality is not a moral position. It's a tool that helps us work and get access to prisoners of war, to populations in difficult situations," she said. (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-Ukraine war: Red Cross visits POWs ‘on both sides’ of conflict

30 years ago Ukraine gave up its nuclear weapons in return for security assistance. Now the war-torn country wants Ironclad protection from its allies as it enters a pivotal stage in the war with Russia. But since Russia started its invasion of Ukraine, the Biden Administration is reportedly considering proposing an Israel model for Ukraine. Keep watching to know more in this interview with Security and Defense expert, David Dunn.

Allies attempt to aid Ukraine war | Russia-Ukraine War

After history filled with World Wars and high tensions during the Cold War, Europe is once again facing rising nuclear tensions. This comes in as Belarus has now confirmed that it has started to receive delivery of Russian tactical nuclear weapons. Here we discuss the same in an interview with Geopolitical Analyst General Rich Outzen (R).

Putin: Why no question over the west's Nukes?

After history filled with World Wars and high tensions during the Cold War, Europe is once again facing rising nuclear tensions. This comes in as Belarus has now confirmed that it has started to receive delivery of Russian tactical nuclear weapons. Here are more details.

Belarus says the Nukes could be used swiftly when required

<p>The United Nations nuclear energy chief, on Tuesday (June 13), visited the Ukrainian capital city of Kyiv and met with President Volodymyr Zelensky before going to Ukraine’s Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant days after&nbsp;the massive Kakhovka<em>&nbsp;</em>dam on the Dnipro River was breached.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Very concerned’ about nuclear power plant amid Ukraine’s counteroffensive: Gross</strong>i</h2>

<p>The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi also said that he is “very concerned” that the nuclear plant could be caught in Ukraine’s long-awaited counteroffensive which aims to retake Russian-occupied territory.&nbsp;This comes as Kyiv has recently claimed gains in the early stages of its counteroffensive, earlier on Tuesday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-ukraine-deliberately-hit-kakhovka-dam-with-himars-rockets-604095">Putin says Ukraine deliberately hit Kakhovka dam with HIMARS rockets</a></strong></p>

<p>The IAEA chief also said there were no signs of Russian troops moving heavy military equipment to the&nbsp;Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP)&nbsp;but can only be confirmed after his visit and said, “There shouldn’t be any military equipment or artillery or amounts of ammunition, an amount that could compromise the security of the plant.”</p>

<p>He added, “We do not have any indication at this point, but it could not be excluded.” Grossi, addressing the press in Kyiv,&nbsp;said he discussed the dangers facing the ZNPP with Zelensky.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Grossi also said that the largest nuclear power plant in Europe is witnessing a “relatively dangerous situation” after the collapse of the Soviet-era Nova Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro River in the Russia-occupied part of southern Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-russia-ukraine-war-nova-kakhovka-dam-attack-what-we-know-so-far-601391">Explained | What we know so far about the Nova Kakhovka dam attack in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Why is Grossi in Kyiv, travelling to nuclear power plant</strong>?</h2>

<p>The IAEA chief's&nbsp;trip to Ukraine comes after the UN agency, on Sunday, said that it needed to access the site near the plant to check the water levels after the dam’s reservoir which also provided water essential for cooling the six reactors at the ZNPP collapsed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The nuclear power plant which has repeatedly been caught in the crossfire between Russia and Ukraine once again sparked concerns after the destruction of the Kakhovka dam. Meanwhile, both Kyiv and Moscow have blamed each for attacking the dam which led to dozens of deaths and prompted evacuation&nbsp;of thousands of people in southern Ukraine amid floods.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-frances-macron-promises-more-military-aid-to-kyiv-as-counteroffensive-begins-603681">Ukraine war: France's Macron promises more military aid to Kyiv as counteroffensive begins</a></strong><br />
<br />
The water in the cooling pond is used to keep the ZNPP’s six reactors from potentially disastrous overheating from the reservoir which is now destroyed. However, Ukraine’s nuclear energy company, Energoatom, on Tuesday said that the level of the pond was stable and that the water was enough.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Serious situation’ at ZNPP: IAEA chie</strong>f</h2>

<p>Speaking to journalists in Kyiv, Grossi said there was no immediate danger but that it was a “serious situation” due to the limited amount of water left. According to the Ukrainian energy company, as of Tuesday morning, the water level was at 16.67 metres which it said is “quite enough to meet the needs of the station”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Grossi has also called the move a “step in the wrong direction.” He added, “If there was a break in the gates that contain this water or anything like this, you would really lose all your cooling capacity.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-fsb-arrests-former-defence-industry-workers-suspected-of-spying-for-ukraines-military-intelligence-603962">Russia's FSB arrests former defence industry workers suspected of spying for Ukraine's military intelligence</a></strong></p>

<p>Similarly, Ukrainian nuclear authorities have also said that the reservoir which was normally used to refill the pond cannot anymore because of its falling water level. However, the pond, which is separated from the reservoir, can be replenished using deep underground wells, the Ukrainian authorities added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The United Nations nuclear energy chief, on Tuesday (June 13), visited the Ukrainian capital city of Kyiv and met with President Volodymyr Zelensky before going to Ukraine’s Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant days after the massive Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro River was breached.

The United Nations nuclear energy chief, on Tuesday (June 13), visited the Ukrainian capital city of Kyiv and met with President Volodymyr Zelensky before going to Ukraine’s Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant days after the massive Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro River was breached. ‘Very concerned’ about nuclear power plant amid Ukraine’s counteroffensive: Grossi The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi also said that he is “very concerned” that the nuclear plant could be caught in Ukraine’s long-awaited counteroffensive which aims to retake Russian-occupied territory. This comes as Kyiv has recently claimed gains in the early stages of its counteroffensive, earlier on Tuesday. ALSO READ | Putin says Ukraine deliberately hit Kakhovka dam with HIMARS rockets The IAEA chief also said there were no signs of Russian troops moving heavy military equipment to the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) but can only be confirmed after his visit and said, “There shouldn’t be any military equipment or artillery or amounts of ammunition, an amount that could compromise the security of the plant.” He added, “We do not have any indication at this point, but it could not be excluded.” Grossi, addressing the press in Kyiv, said he discussed the dangers facing the ZNPP with Zelensky. Grossi also said that the largest nuclear power plant in Europe is witnessing a “relatively dangerous situation” after the collapse of the Soviet-era Nova Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro River in the Russia-occupied part of southern Ukraine. ALSO READ | Explained | What we know so far about the Nova Kakhovka dam attack in Ukraine Why is Grossi in Kyiv, travelling to nuclear power plant? The IAEA chief's trip to Ukraine comes after the UN agency, on Sunday, said that it needed to access the site near the plant to check the water levels after the dam’s reservoir which also provided water essential for cooling the six reactors at the ZNPP collapsed. The nuclear power plant which has repeatedly been caught in the crossfire between Russia and Ukraine once again sparked concerns after the destruction of the Kakhovka dam. Meanwhile, both Kyiv and Moscow have blamed each for attacking the dam which led to dozens of deaths and prompted evacuation of thousands of people in southern Ukraine amid floods. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: France's Macron promises more military aid to Kyiv as counteroffensive begins The water in the cooling pond is used to keep the ZNPP’s six reactors from potentially disastrous overheating from the reservoir which is now destroyed. However, Ukraine’s nuclear energy company, Energoatom, on Tuesday said that the level of the pond was stable and that the water was enough. ‘Serious situation’ at ZNPP: IAEA chief Speaking to journalists in Kyiv, Grossi said there was no immediate danger but that it was a “serious situation” due to the limited amount of water left. According to the Ukrainian energy company, as of Tuesday morning, the water level was at 16.67 metres which it said is “quite enough to meet the needs of the station”. Grossi has also called the move a “step in the wrong direction.” He added, “If there was a break in the gates that contain this water or anything like this, you would really lose all your cooling capacity.” ALSO READ | Russia's FSB arrests former defence industry workers suspected of spying for Ukraine's military intelligence Similarly, Ukrainian nuclear authorities have also said that the reservoir which was normally used to refill the pond cannot anymore because of its falling water level. However, the pond, which is separated from the reservoir, can be replenished using deep underground wells, the Ukrainian authorities added. (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.

‘Very concerned’: UN nuclear chief about Zaporizhzhia plant amid Ukraine’s counteroffensive

<p>Russian missiles struck civilian buildings in Ukraine's Black Sea port of Odesa overnight, killing at least three people and wounding 13, Ukraine's military said early on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Russia launched four cruise missiles on the city, the South command of Ukraine's Armed Forces said. The military said earlier that two missiles were destroyed before hitting their targets.</p>

<p>"As a result of air combat and blast waves, a business centre, an educational institution, a residential complex, food establishments and shops in the city centre were damaged," the South command said on the Telegram messaging app.</p>

<p>The three people killed were working at a retail chain's warehouse when a missile hit, setting it ablaze, the military added. Seven people were wounded there.</p>

<p>"Sifting through the debris continues," the military said. "There may be people under."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-claims-to-retaken-ground-from-russian-forces-604064"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Kyiv claims to retaken ground from Russian forces</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-claims-to-retaken-ground-from-russian-forces-604064/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Serhiy Bratchuk, a spokesman for the Odesa military administration, posted a video and photographs showing multi-storey buildings with parts of their walls missing and windows blown out, as well as firefighters battling against flames in what appeared to be a warehouse.</p>

<p>Reuters could not independently verify the reports. There was no immediate comment from Russia. Both Russia and Ukraine deny targeting civilians in their military operations.<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Russian missiles struck civilian buildings in Ukraine's Black Sea port of Odesa overnight, killing at least three people and wounding 13, Ukraine's military said early on Wednesday.

Russian missiles struck civilian buildings in Ukraine's Black Sea port of Odesa overnight, killing at least three people and wounding 13, Ukraine's military said early on Wednesday. Russia launched four cruise missiles on the city, the South command of Ukraine's Armed Forces said. The military said earlier that two missiles were destroyed before hitting their targets. "As a result of air combat and blast waves, a business centre, an educational institution, a residential complex, food establishments and shops in the city centre were damaged," the South command said on the Telegram messaging app. The three people killed were working at a retail chain's warehouse when a missile hit, setting it ablaze, the military added. Seven people were wounded there. "Sifting through the debris continues," the military said. "There may be people under." WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Kyiv claims to retaken ground from Russian forces × Serhiy Bratchuk, a spokesman for the Odesa military administration, posted a video and photographs showing multi-storey buildings with parts of their walls missing and windows blown out, as well as firefighters battling against flames in what appeared to be a warehouse. Reuters could not independently verify the reports. There was no immediate comment from Russia. Both Russia and Ukraine deny targeting civilians in their military operations. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Three killed, 13 wounded after Russian missiles strike civilian buildings in Odesa

Putin ponders if Russia should try to take Kyiv again

One of the biggest mysteries of the Russia-Ukraine war is yet to be solved behind the Nord Stream blast. The Nord Stream is a network of offshore natural gas pipelines which runs from Russia to Germany to provide Western Europe with natural gas. Now according to the latest report by the Dutch national broadcaster NOS, Denmark knew about the alleged attack on the Nord Stream pipelines which took place last year. Watch this report to know more.

Nord Stream Mystery Latest: The Dutch knew about the blasts | Russia-Ukraine War

<p>Russia on Sunday claimed that its force repelled an attack by the Ukrainian army on a Russian warship which was guarding gas pipelines in the Black Sea.<br />
<br />
"Ukraine's armed forces made an unsuccessful attempt to attack the Black Sea Fleet's Priazovye ship," stated the Russian defence ministry, adding that the forces of Kyiv used six unmanned boats.<br />
<br />
"All the boats have been destroyed. There are no casualties,” the ministry said in a statement.<br />
<br />
The Priazovye battleship, which has been guarding the Blue Stream and the TurkStream gas pipelines, has been performing its tasks without much hindrance, said the defence ministry.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="Russian opposition failing to unite against Putin. Here's why">Russian opposition failing to unite against Putin. Here's why</a></p>

<p>At the time of the attack, reconnaissance was being conducted by a remotely piloted US military aircraft called the RQ-4 Global Hawk in the Black Sea, Moscow stated.</p>

<h2><strong>35 people missing in Ukraine's devastating flood: Minister</strong></h2>

<p>Thirty-five people, which included seven children, went missing in southern Ukraine on Sunday in the devastating flood which prosecutors called the "worst environmental catastrophe since Chernobyl".<br />
<br />
On June 6, the Russian-controlled Kakhovka dam located along the front line in the Kherson region blew up and forced thousands of people to flee, sparking fears of environmental and humanitarian disasters.<br />
<br />
Russia has been accused by Ukraine of blowing up the dam on the Dnipro River, while Moscow stated that Kyiv fired upon the structure.<br />
<br />
Ukrainian Interior Minister Igor Klymenko stated that 77 towns and villages were flooded in the southern regions of Mykolaiv and Kherson. Klymenko stated that 35 people went missing in the Kherson region, which included seven children.<br />
<br />
Because of the flood, five people lost their lives in Kherson and one person was killed in the region of Mykolaiv.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia under way</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraines-counter-offensive-against-russia-under-way-603074/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Around 3,700 people were evacuated from their homes in both regions, said the minister in a statement. “Separately, Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin and representatives of the International Criminal Court visited the flooded territory,” stated his office.<br />
<br />
"This is the worst environmental catastrophe since Chernobyl so we are investigating not only a war crime but also an ecocide," said Kostin in a statement. "The situation is very complicated," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine announces first gain of offensive, says retook village in southeast</strong></h2>

<p>On Sunday,&nbsp;Kyiv stated that Ukrainian forces have retaken a village in the&nbsp;south of the country which marked&nbsp;the first reported gain of the offensive. In a statement, Ukraine's ground forces stated that&nbsp;soldiers of the 68th separate ranger brigade had "liberated the settlement of Blagodatne" in the region of Donetsk.<br />
<br />
Earlier in the day, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia has started. "Counter-offensive and defensive actions are taking place," he stated.<br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<main>
<section>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</section>
</main>


Russia on Sunday claimed that its force repelled an attack by the Ukrainian army on a Russian warship which was guarding gas pipelines in the Black Sea. "Ukraine's armed forces made an unsuccessful attempt to attack the Black Sea Fleet's Priazovye ship," stated the Russian defence ministry, adding that the forces of Kyiv used six unmanned boats.

Russia on Sunday claimed that its force repelled an attack by the Ukrainian army on a Russian warship which was guarding gas pipelines in the Black Sea. "Ukraine's armed forces made an unsuccessful attempt to attack the Black Sea Fleet's Priazovye ship," stated the Russian defence ministry, adding that the forces of Kyiv used six unmanned boats. "All the boats have been destroyed. There are no casualties,” the ministry said in a statement. The Priazovye battleship, which has been guarding the Blue Stream and the TurkStream gas pipelines, has been performing its tasks without much hindrance, said the defence ministry. ALSO READ | Russian opposition failing to unite against Putin. Here's why At the time of the attack, reconnaissance was being conducted by a remotely piloted US military aircraft called the RQ-4 Global Hawk in the Black Sea, Moscow stated. 35 people missing in Ukraine's devastating flood: Minister Thirty-five people, which included seven children, went missing in southern Ukraine on Sunday in the devastating flood which prosecutors called the "worst environmental catastrophe since Chernobyl". On June 6, the Russian-controlled Kakhovka dam located along the front line in the Kherson region blew up and forced thousands of people to flee, sparking fears of environmental and humanitarian disasters. Russia has been accused by Ukraine of blowing up the dam on the Dnipro River, while Moscow stated that Kyiv fired upon the structure. Ukrainian Interior Minister Igor Klymenko stated that 77 towns and villages were flooded in the southern regions of Mykolaiv and Kherson. Klymenko stated that 35 people went missing in the Kherson region, which included seven children. Because of the flood, five people lost their lives in Kherson and one person was killed in the region of Mykolaiv. WATCH | Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia under way Around 3,700 people were evacuated from their homes in both regions, said the minister in a statement. “Separately, Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin and representatives of the International Criminal Court visited the flooded territory,” stated his office. "This is the worst environmental catastrophe since Chernobyl so we are investigating not only a war crime but also an ecocide," said Kostin in a statement. "The situation is very complicated," he added. Ukraine announces first gain of offensive, says retook village in southeast On Sunday, Kyiv stated that Ukrainian forces have retaken a village in the south of the country which marked the first reported gain of the offensive. In a statement, Ukraine's ground forces stated that soldiers of the 68th separate ranger brigade had "liberated the settlement of Blagodatne" in the region of Donetsk. Earlier in the day, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia has started. "Counter-offensive and defensive actions are taking place," he stated. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia claims it repelled attack by Ukraine on Black Sea warship

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday urged his Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi to stop backing Russia's efforts in the invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>Macron asked Raisi to "immediately end" Tehran's support to Russia in the war against Ukraine, including the supply of drones, said the Elysee Palace.</p>

<p>In a telephonic conversation, the French President highlighted the serious "security and humanitarian consequences" of Iran's drone deliveries "and urged Tehran to immediately end the support it thus gives to Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine", the statement said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-receiving-materials-from-iran-to-build-drone-factory-says-white-house-602656">Russia receiving material from Iran to build drone factory, says White House</a></p>

<p>The call by the French President came a day after White House national security spokesman John Kirby said that Iran was sending materials to Russia to build a drone factory on its territory.</p>

<h2><strong>Drone factory 'could be fully operational early next year': Kirby</strong></h2>

<p>John Kirby said that Russia was importing materials from Iran to build the drone factory which "could be fully operational early next year".</p>

<p>The White House released a satellite image of the location of the forthcoming plant in the Alabuga Special Economic Zone, which was based some 900 kilometres (560 miles) east of Moscow.</p>

<p>"The Russia-Iran military partnership appears to be deepening," Kirby said in a statement, citing US intelligence information.</p>

<p>The White House said it would release a new government advisory to assist businesses and governments "to ensure they are not inadvertently contributing to Iran's (drone) programme".</p>

<p>According to Washington, Russia has received hundreds of attack drones and related equipment from Iran to aid Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>As per US data, Kirby said, the drones "are built in Iran, shipped across the Caspian Sea and then used operationally by Russian forces against Ukraine."</p>

<p>"Russia has been using Iranian UAVs in recent weeks to strike Kyiv and terrorise the Ukrainian population," he added, referring to unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones.</p>

<p>Washington issued the alert on what it feels are Moscow's efforts to create Iranian drones itself.</p>

<p>"We have information that Russia is receiving materials from Iran needed to build a UAV manufacturing plant inside Russia," Kirby said.</p>

<p>According to the White House, in turn, Iran is seeking to purchase Su-35 fighter jets, attack helicopters, radars, and YAK-130 combat trainer aircraft from Russia.</p>

<p>"We will continue to impose sanctions on the actors involved in the transfer of Iranian military equipment to Russia for use in Ukraine," AFP quoted Kirby as saying.</p>

<p>Iran has repeatedly denied the allegations made by the United States of sending military supplies to Russia during its war against Ukraine.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday urged his Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi to stop backing Russia's efforts in the invasion of Ukraine. Macron asked Raisi to "immediately end" Tehran's support to Russia in the war against Ukraine, including the supply of drones, said the Elysee Palace.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday urged his Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi to stop backing Russia's efforts in the invasion of Ukraine. Macron asked Raisi to "immediately end" Tehran's support to Russia in the war against Ukraine, including the supply of drones, said the Elysee Palace. In a telephonic conversation, the French President highlighted the serious "security and humanitarian consequences" of Iran's drone deliveries "and urged Tehran to immediately end the support it thus gives to Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine", the statement said. Also read: Russia receiving material from Iran to build drone factory, says White House The call by the French President came a day after White House national security spokesman John Kirby said that Iran was sending materials to Russia to build a drone factory on its territory. Drone factory 'could be fully operational early next year': Kirby John Kirby said that Russia was importing materials from Iran to build the drone factory which "could be fully operational early next year". The White House released a satellite image of the location of the forthcoming plant in the Alabuga Special Economic Zone, which was based some 900 kilometres (560 miles) east of Moscow. "The Russia-Iran military partnership appears to be deepening," Kirby said in a statement, citing US intelligence information. The White House said it would release a new government advisory to assist businesses and governments "to ensure they are not inadvertently contributing to Iran's (drone) programme". According to Washington, Russia has received hundreds of attack drones and related equipment from Iran to aid Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. As per US data, Kirby said, the drones "are built in Iran, shipped across the Caspian Sea and then used operationally by Russian forces against Ukraine." "Russia has been using Iranian UAVs in recent weeks to strike Kyiv and terrorise the Ukrainian population," he added, referring to unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones. Washington issued the alert on what it feels are Moscow's efforts to create Iranian drones itself. "We have information that Russia is receiving materials from Iran needed to build a UAV manufacturing plant inside Russia," Kirby said. According to the White House, in turn, Iran is seeking to purchase Su-35 fighter jets, attack helicopters, radars, and YAK-130 combat trainer aircraft from Russia. "We will continue to impose sanctions on the actors involved in the transfer of Iranian military equipment to Russia for use in Ukraine," AFP quoted Kirby as saying. Iran has repeatedly denied the allegations made by the United States of sending military supplies to Russia during its war against Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Emmanuel Macron urges Iran to 'immediately end' support to Russia in war against Ukraine

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidrziPzmvQchCe" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (June 10) criticised parts of the world for being indifferent towards the Kakhovka dam disaster last week. In his evening address, President Zelensky said “Now, unfortunately, we see that at some levels, the world is simply shamefully indifferent to the ecocide and human tragedy caused by the Russian terrorist attack on the Kakhovka hydroelectric power station,” the news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“When international organisations that are supposed to protect life on a global scale fail to form and send a rescue mission to the occupied territory even in a week, when some global actors do not dare to come out with clear and strong statements condemning this latest Russian war crime, terrorists are simply fuelled by this weakness of the world, this indifference - it encourages them," Zelensky added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian president also said that over 3,000 people had been evacuated from Kherson and Mykolaiv regions.</p>

<h2><strong>Russian shelling continues at evacuation points: Zelensky</strong></h2>

<p>During his address, Zelensky pointed out that Russian shelling continued even at evacuation points, adding Moscow was not providing any real help to people in the flooded areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"International organisations must work where we have not yet de-occupied our territories. Every life is important — the entire Kherson region, the entire south, every city and village. We will do everything possible and impossible to get help to all our people,” he further said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The destruction of the Kakhovka dam is one of the latest flashpoints between Ukraine and Russia in the ongoing war. Both countries have blamed each other for the disaster.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The flood triggered by the damage has forced thousands of civilians to flee and has also sparked fears of an environmental and humanitarian disaster. At least five people have died due to floods.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia behind dam breach: EU foreign policy chief&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On Friday, the European Union's (EU) Foreign Policy chief Josep Borrel said everything indicated that Russia was behind the Kakhovka dam destruction. Speaking to Spanish public television, Borrell said, "The dam was not bombed. It was destroyed by explosives installed in the areas where the turbines are located. This area is under Russian control," the news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I wasn't there to find out who did it. But everything seems to indicate that if it took place in an area under Russian control, it is difficult to believe it could have been someone else," he added.</p>

<p>The EU foreign policy chief also pointed out the dam's destruction would cause an ecological disaster.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (June 10) criticised parts of the world for being indifferent towards the Kakhovka dam disaster last week. In his evening address, President Zelensky said “Now, unfortunately, we see that at some levels, the world is simply shamefully indifferent to the ecocide and human tragedy caused by the Russian terrorist attack on the Kakhovka hydroelectric power station,” the news agency Reuters reported.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (June 10) criticised parts of the world for being indifferent towards the Kakhovka dam disaster last week. In his evening address, President Zelensky said “Now, unfortunately, we see that at some levels, the world is simply shamefully indifferent to the ecocide and human tragedy caused by the Russian terrorist attack on the Kakhovka hydroelectric power station,” the news agency Reuters reported. “When international organisations that are supposed to protect life on a global scale fail to form and send a rescue mission to the occupied territory even in a week, when some global actors do not dare to come out with clear and strong statements condemning this latest Russian war crime, terrorists are simply fuelled by this weakness of the world, this indifference - it encourages them," Zelensky added. The Ukrainian president also said that over 3,000 people had been evacuated from Kherson and Mykolaiv regions. Russian shelling continues at evacuation points: Zelensky During his address, Zelensky pointed out that Russian shelling continued even at evacuation points, adding Moscow was not providing any real help to people in the flooded areas. "International organisations must work where we have not yet de-occupied our territories. Every life is important — the entire Kherson region, the entire south, every city and village. We will do everything possible and impossible to get help to all our people,” he further said. The destruction of the Kakhovka dam is one of the latest flashpoints between Ukraine and Russia in the ongoing war. Both countries have blamed each other for the disaster. The flood triggered by the damage has forced thousands of civilians to flee and has also sparked fears of an environmental and humanitarian disaster. At least five people have died due to floods. Russia behind dam breach: EU foreign policy chief On Friday, the European Union's (EU) Foreign Policy chief Josep Borrel said everything indicated that Russia was behind the Kakhovka dam destruction. Speaking to Spanish public television, Borrell said, "The dam was not bombed. It was destroyed by explosives installed in the areas where the turbines are located. This area is under Russian control," the news agency AFP reported. "I wasn't there to find out who did it. But everything seems to indicate that if it took place in an area under Russian control, it is difficult to believe it could have been someone else," he added. The EU foreign policy chief also pointed out the dam's destruction would cause an ecological disaster. (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 dam collapse: Zelensky says world ‘shamefully indifferent’ to disaster

<p>The White House said on Friday (June 9) that Russia appeared to deepen its defence cooperation with Iran and this had resulted in it getting hundreds of Iranian drones which it was using to strike Ukraine.<br />
<br />
The White House cited newly declassified information. It said that the Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) built in Iran were being shipped across the Caspian Sea and were then being used by Russia against Ukraine.</p>

<p>"Russia has been using Iranian UAVs in recent weeks to strike Kyiv and terrorize the Ukrainian population, and the Russia-Iran military partnership appears to be deepening," White House spokesman John Kirby said in a statement.</p>

<p>"We are also concerned that Russia is working with Iran to produce Iranian UAVs from inside Russia."</p>

<p>Kirby said that the US was in possession of information that Russia was receiving materials from Iran which was required to build a drone manufacturing plant. This plant, said Kirby could be fully operational early next year.</p>

<p>"We are releasing satellite imagery of the planned location of this UAV manufacturing plant in Russia’s Alabuga Special Economic Zone," he said.</p>

<p>The US has previously sanctioned Iranian executives at a defence manufacturer over drone supplies to Russia. Iran has acknowledged sending drones to Russia but said in the past they were sent before Russia's February invasion. Moscow has denied its forces used Iranian drones in Ukraine. A White House official said Iran had transferred several hundred drones to Russia since August.</p>

<p>Kirby said that support between Iran and Russia was both ways. Iran is seeking billions of dollars worth of military equipment from Russia. This includes helicopters and radars.</p>

<p>"Russia has been offering Iran unprecedented defense cooperation, including on missiles, electronics, and air defense," he said.</p>

<p>"This is a full-scale defense partnership that is harmful to Ukraine, to Iran’s neighbors, and to the international community. We are continuing to use all the tools at our disposal to expose and disrupt these activities including by sharing this with the public – and we are prepared to do more."</p>

<h2><strong>Violation of UN rules&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Kirby said that drone transfer constituted violation of United Nations rules. He added that the US would seek to hold Russia and Iran accountable.</p>

<p>In addition to the US, countries like Britain, France, Germany and Ukraine say that supply of Iran-made drones to Russia violates a 2015 U.N. Security Council resolution enshrining the Iran nuclear deal.</p>

<p>Under the 2015 U.N. resolution, a conventional arms embargo on Iran was in place until October 2020.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>

<p><strong><em>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</em></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The White House said on Friday (June 9) that Russia appeared to deepen its defence cooperation with Iran and this had resulted in it getting hundreds of Iranian drones which it was using to strike Ukraine.

The White House said on Friday (June 9) that Russia appeared to deepen its defence cooperation with Iran and this had resulted in it getting hundreds of Iranian drones which it was using to strike Ukraine. The White House cited newly declassified information. It said that the Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) built in Iran were being shipped across the Caspian Sea and were then being used by Russia against Ukraine. "Russia has been using Iranian UAVs in recent weeks to strike Kyiv and terrorize the Ukrainian population, and the Russia-Iran military partnership appears to be deepening," White House spokesman John Kirby said in a statement. "We are also concerned that Russia is working with Iran to produce Iranian UAVs from inside Russia." Kirby said that the US was in possession of information that Russia was receiving materials from Iran which was required to build a drone manufacturing plant. This plant, said Kirby could be fully operational early next year. "We are releasing satellite imagery of the planned location of this UAV manufacturing plant in Russia’s Alabuga Special Economic Zone," he said. The US has previously sanctioned Iranian executives at a defence manufacturer over drone supplies to Russia. Iran has acknowledged sending drones to Russia but said in the past they were sent before Russia's February invasion. Moscow has denied its forces used Iranian drones in Ukraine. A White House official said Iran had transferred several hundred drones to Russia since August. Kirby said that support between Iran and Russia was both ways. Iran is seeking billions of dollars worth of military equipment from Russia. This includes helicopters and radars. "Russia has been offering Iran unprecedented defense cooperation, including on missiles, electronics, and air defense," he said. "This is a full-scale defense partnership that is harmful to Ukraine, to Iran’s neighbors, and to the international community. We are continuing to use all the tools at our disposal to expose and disrupt these activities including by sharing this with the public – and we are prepared to do more." Violation of UN rules Kirby said that drone transfer constituted violation of United Nations rules. He added that the US would seek to hold Russia and Iran accountable. In addition to the US, countries like Britain, France, Germany and Ukraine say that supply of Iran-made drones to Russia violates a 2015 U.N. Security Council resolution enshrining the Iran nuclear deal. Under the 2015 U.N. resolution, a conventional arms embargo on Iran was in place until October 2020. (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 ×

Iran supplied hundreds of drones to Russia for attack on Ukraine: White House

<p>The largest Western companies still operating in Russia recorded a combined net profit of 1.1 trillion rubles ($13.3 billion) in 2022, according to a report by Novaya Gazeta Europe, the leading independent Russian news website. This represents a significant increase of 54 per cent&nbsp;compared to the previous year.</p>

<p>The findings were based on the financial statements of Russian-registered legal entities that are either fully or partially owned by the western entities.</p>

<p>In terms of corporate income taxes, Western companies contributed a total of 288 billion rubles ($3.5 billion) to Russia's budget revenue last year, amounting to 1 per cent&nbsp;of the total. French, British, and US companies were the largest taxpayers, with contributions of 55 billion, 47 billion, and 40 billion rubles, respectively.</p>

<h2>Western business in Russia amid Ukraine war: The scale</h2>

<p>Ukrainian researchers estimate that there are over 1,300 Western companies currently active in Russia, The Moscow Times reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-affects-russian-energy-giant-gazproms-profits-net-profit-down-by-414-in-2022-595729">Ukraine war affects Russian energy giant Gazprom's profits; net profit down by 41.4% in 2022</a></strong></p>

<p>However, more than 700 of these companies have suspended their operations, and 241 have completely exited the country after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<h2>Western business in Russia amid Ukraine war: Top winners</h2>

<p>Despite withdrawing from certain assets, French energy group TotalEnergies managed to double its net profit to 269 billion rubles ($3.2 billion).</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint: Who is profiting from Russia-Ukraine war?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-who-is-profiting-from-russia-ukraine-war-536631/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Raiffeisen Bank, one of the major Western banks still present in Russia, nearly quadrupled its net profit to 141 billion rubles ($1.7 billion).</p>

<p>Among the top ten earners in Russia are well-known companies such as PepsiCo, British Petroleum, Japan Tobacco, Mondelez International (formerly Kraft Foods), Mars, the packaging giant Mondi, Kia, and the multinational building materials company Knauf.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The largest Western companies still operating in Russia recorded a combined net profit of 1.1 trillion rubles ($13.3 billion) in 2022, according to a report by Novaya Gazeta Europe, the leading independent Russian news website.

The largest Western companies still operating in Russia recorded a combined net profit of 1.1 trillion rubles ($13.3 billion) in 2022, according to a report by Novaya Gazeta Europe, the leading independent Russian news website. This represents a significant increase of 54 per cent compared to the previous year. The findings were based on the financial statements of Russian-registered legal entities that are either fully or partially owned by the western entities. In terms of corporate income taxes, Western companies contributed a total of 288 billion rubles ($3.5 billion) to Russia's budget revenue last year, amounting to 1 per cent of the total. French, British, and US companies were the largest taxpayers, with contributions of 55 billion, 47 billion, and 40 billion rubles, respectively. Western business in Russia amid Ukraine war: The scale Ukrainian researchers estimate that there are over 1,300 Western companies currently active in Russia, The Moscow Times reported. Also read | Ukraine war affects Russian energy giant Gazprom's profits; net profit down by 41.4% in 2022 However, more than 700 of these companies have suspended their operations, and 241 have completely exited the country after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Western business in Russia amid Ukraine war: Top winners Despite withdrawing from certain assets, French energy group TotalEnergies managed to double its net profit to 269 billion rubles ($3.2 billion). Also watch | WION Fineprint: Who is profiting from Russia-Ukraine war? × Raiffeisen Bank, one of the major Western banks still present in Russia, nearly quadrupled its net profit to 141 billion rubles ($1.7 billion). Among the top ten earners in Russia are well-known companies such as PepsiCo, British Petroleum, Japan Tobacco, Mondelez International (formerly Kraft Foods), Mars, the packaging giant Mondi, Kia, and the multinational building materials company Knauf. 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 earned billions in taxes after western companies made record profits amid Ukraine war

<p>An "explosion" was detected at the site and the time a dam was breached in Ukraine that caused major flooding, Norway's seismological institute said on Friday (June 9).&nbsp;</p>

<p>News agency AFP reported that the announcement by the NORSAR (or Norwegian Seismic Array) did not provide any information about the cause of the blast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It supports suggestions that the hydroelectric dam did not burst as a result of damage incurred during months of heavy bombing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this week, the hydroelectric dam was ripped open after a reported blast. In the aftermath, both Moscow and Kyiv have blamed each other for the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The alleged attack caused tensions as the Kakhovka dam sits on the Dnipro River which feeds a reservoir providing cooling water for the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thousands of civilians were forced to flee the flooded areas while raising fears of an ecological disaster after the destruction of the dam caused torrents of water to pour into the Dnipro.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-receiving-materials-from-iran-to-build-drone-factory-says-white-house-602656">Russia receiving materials from Iran to build drone factory, says White House</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/will-the-kakhovka-dam-collapse-hurt-ukraines-counteroffensive-602663/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Ben Dando, who is a senior Norsar official, told AFP: "We are confident that there was an explosion."&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the institute, the blast occurred at 2:54 am (local time), at a site whose coordinates correspond to the Kakhovka dam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The magnitude of the blast was "between 1 and 2", said Norsar, which had yet to calculate its equivalent in tonnes of TNT.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dando said, "It's not a weak explosion." It was detected at the Bukovina station in Romania, some 620 kilometres from the location of the blast.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Rescue work underway</strong></h2>

<p>Thousands of civilians were forced to flee the flooded areas while fears of an ecological disaster increased&nbsp;after the destruction of the dam caused torrents of water to pour into the Dnipro.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian officials said that more people were evacuated on Friday from southern areas where at least five people had been killed in the flooding.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-claims-to-have-created-its-first-ever-hypersonic-missile-fattah-601277">Iran unveils its first hypersonic missile ‘Fattah’: Here's what we know</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said four people had died and 13 people were missing in the Kherson region, and that one person had died in the Mykolayiv region. According to Kherson's military administration, 2,528 people, including 140 children, had been evacuated from flooded areas.</p>

<p>A Russian-appointed official said eight people had died in Russian-held territory and more than 5,800 had been evacuated from their homes.</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the authorities were working round the clock to save people. Zelensky said, "The evacuation continues. Wherever we can get people out of the flood zone, we are doing it."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


An "explosion" was detected at the site and the time a dam was breached in Ukraine that caused major flooding, Norway's seismological institute said on Friday (June 9).

An "explosion" was detected at the site and the time a dam was breached in Ukraine that caused major flooding, Norway's seismological institute said on Friday (June 9). News agency AFP reported that the announcement by the NORSAR (or Norwegian Seismic Array) did not provide any information about the cause of the blast. It supports suggestions that the hydroelectric dam did not burst as a result of damage incurred during months of heavy bombing. Earlier this week, the hydroelectric dam was ripped open after a reported blast. In the aftermath, both Moscow and Kyiv have blamed each other for the attack. The alleged attack caused tensions as the Kakhovka dam sits on the Dnipro River which feeds a reservoir providing cooling water for the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station. Thousands of civilians were forced to flee the flooded areas while raising fears of an ecological disaster after the destruction of the dam caused torrents of water to pour into the Dnipro. Also read: Russia receiving materials from Iran to build drone factory, says White House Watch this report: × Ben Dando, who is a senior Norsar official, told AFP: "We are confident that there was an explosion." According to the institute, the blast occurred at 2:54 am (local time), at a site whose coordinates correspond to the Kakhovka dam. The magnitude of the blast was "between 1 and 2", said Norsar, which had yet to calculate its equivalent in tonnes of TNT. Dando said, "It's not a weak explosion." It was detected at the Bukovina station in Romania, some 620 kilometres from the location of the blast. Rescue work underway Thousands of civilians were forced to flee the flooded areas while fears of an ecological disaster increased after the destruction of the dam caused torrents of water to pour into the Dnipro. Ukrainian officials said that more people were evacuated on Friday from southern areas where at least five people had been killed in the flooding. Also read: Iran unveils its first hypersonic missile ‘Fattah’: Here's what we know Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said four people had died and 13 people were missing in the Kherson region, and that one person had died in the Mykolayiv region. According to Kherson's military administration, 2,528 people, including 140 children, had been evacuated from flooded areas. A Russian-appointed official said eight people had died in Russian-held territory and more than 5,800 had been evacuated from their homes. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the authorities were working round the clock to save people. Zelensky said, "The evacuation continues. Wherever we can get people out of the flood zone, we are doing it." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Norway's seismological institute detected 'explosion' at Ukraine dam blast site

<p>Ukraine has dismissed media reports of launching a counteroffensive against the Russian troops on the frontlines. A&nbsp;Ukrainian armed forces general staff spokesperson, responding to such reports,&nbsp;said,&nbsp;“We have no such information”, according to Reuters news agency.</p>

<p>Several American media houses had reported that the much-talked-about counteroffensive had begun.&nbsp;NBC news had, citing a senior officer and a soldier near the front lines, reported the offensive had begun. The Washington Post cited “four individuals” in the armed forces saying the same thing.</p>

<p>This comes after Russia claimed on the same day that Ukrainian strikes killed two people at an evacuation point for civilians from the Kherson region, which was flooded after a dam in Russian-held territory was destroyed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Moscow-installed head of the Kherson region, Vladimir Saldo, said on Telegram: "Fighters from the Kyiv regime committed a heinous crime. They shelled a civilian evacuation point in Gola Prystan. Two people were killed, including a 33-year-old pregnant woman. Two more people were wounded."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Washington Post cited multiple individuals in Ukrainian armed forces to report that the troops on Wednesday night intensified their attacks on the front line in the country's southeast, as claimed by Russia as well. The report mentioned that it can be seen as a significant push toward Russian-occupied territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned that four members of the military, including officers, spoke on the condition of anonymity as they were apparently not authorised to discuss war-related developments publicly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ABC News also reported citing two Ukrainian officials, including a source close to President Volodymry Zelensky, that an active phase of the Ukrainian counteroffensive is underway.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 8 June 2023.<br />
<br />
Find out more about Defence Intelligence's use of language: <a href="https://t.co/Xuz1SZBZuV">https://t.co/Xuz1SZBZuV</a><br />
<br />
🇺🇦 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StandWithUkraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StandWithUkraine</a> 🇺🇦 <a href="https://t.co/abjNhlu7Xm">pic.twitter.com/abjNhlu7Xm</a></p>
— Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceHQ/status/1666674733708898305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>In its Thursday update, Britain's defence ministry said that "heavy fighting continues along multiple sectors of the front" amid a highly complex operational picture unfolding.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It further mentioned that the Russian forces are likely being ordered to "return to the offensive as soon as possible". It mentioned that Chechen units have led an unsuccessful attempt to take the town of Marivka, near Donetsk city.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's counteroffensive&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Some reports have argued that Ukraine's counteroffensive started a few days ago. The Institute for the Study of War said on Monday that Russian and Ukrainian officials are signalling the "start of the Ukrainian counteroffensive".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report by ABC News even cited unofficial pro-Ukrainian sources as saying that the southeastern front is becoming more active. It further mentioned that there are unconfirmed images and reports that Ukraine's new modern German-made Leopard 2 tanks are involved in the offensive.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine dam: Dislodged mines a major concern&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-dam-dislodged-mines-a-major-concern-602021/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Russia repelled an offensive&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Russia said on Thursday that after a two-hour battle, it had repelled an offensive by Ukrainian forces involving 1,500 soldiers in the southern Zaporizhzhia region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said, "Today at 1:30 am (2230 GMT) in the Zaporizhzhia area... there was an attempt to break through our defences."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The enemy was stopped and retreated after heavy losses," Shoigu said, adding that the "Ukrainian forces used 150 armoured vehicles in their offensive".</p>

<p>Already this week, Russia has said it has repelled several assaults by Ukrainian forces. Ukrainian officials have said their forces were ready for a long-expected counteroffensive but that there would be no formal announcement when it begins. "Plans like silence," said Deputy Minister of Ukraine Ganna Malyar said. "The offensive will not begin on social media."&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><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Ukraine has dismissed media reports of launching a counteroffensive against the Russian troops on the frontlines. A Ukrainian armed forces general staff spokesperson, responding to such reports, said, “We have no such information”, according to Reuters news agency.

Ukraine has dismissed media reports of launching a counteroffensive against the Russian troops on the frontlines. A Ukrainian armed forces general staff spokesperson, responding to such reports, said, “We have no such information”, according to Reuters news agency. Several American media houses had reported that the much-talked-about counteroffensive had begun. NBC news had, citing a senior officer and a soldier near the front lines, reported the offensive had begun. The Washington Post cited “four individuals” in the armed forces saying the same thing. This comes after Russia claimed on the same day that Ukrainian strikes killed two people at an evacuation point for civilians from the Kherson region, which was flooded after a dam in Russian-held territory was destroyed. The Moscow-installed head of the Kherson region, Vladimir Saldo, said on Telegram: "Fighters from the Kyiv regime committed a heinous crime. They shelled a civilian evacuation point in Gola Prystan. Two people were killed, including a 33-year-old pregnant woman. Two more people were wounded." The Washington Post cited multiple individuals in Ukrainian armed forces to report that the troops on Wednesday night intensified their attacks on the front line in the country's southeast, as claimed by Russia as well. The report mentioned that it can be seen as a significant push toward Russian-occupied territory. The report mentioned that four members of the military, including officers, spoke on the condition of anonymity as they were apparently not authorised to discuss war-related developments publicly. ABC News also reported citing two Ukrainian officials, including a source close to President Volodymry Zelensky, that an active phase of the Ukrainian counteroffensive is underway. Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 8 June 2023. Find out more about Defence Intelligence's use of language: https://t.co/Xuz1SZBZuV 🇺🇦 #StandWithUkraine 🇺🇦 pic.twitter.com/abjNhlu7Xm — Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) June 8, 2023 × In its Thursday update, Britain's defence ministry said that "heavy fighting continues along multiple sectors of the front" amid a highly complex operational picture unfolding. It further mentioned that the Russian forces are likely being ordered to "return to the offensive as soon as possible". It mentioned that Chechen units have led an unsuccessful attempt to take the town of Marivka, near Donetsk city. Ukraine's counteroffensive Some reports have argued that Ukraine's counteroffensive started a few days ago. The Institute for the Study of War said on Monday that Russian and Ukrainian officials are signalling the "start of the Ukrainian counteroffensive". The report by ABC News even cited unofficial pro-Ukrainian sources as saying that the southeastern front is becoming more active. It further mentioned that there are unconfirmed images and reports that Ukraine's new modern German-made Leopard 2 tanks are involved in the offensive. Watch: Ukraine dam: Dislodged mines a major concern × Russia repelled an offensive Russia said on Thursday that after a two-hour battle, it had repelled an offensive by Ukrainian forces involving 1,500 soldiers in the southern Zaporizhzhia region. Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said, "Today at 1:30 am (2230 GMT) in the Zaporizhzhia area... there was an attempt to break through our defences." "The enemy was stopped and retreated after heavy losses," Shoigu said, adding that the "Ukrainian forces used 150 armoured vehicles in their offensive". Already this week, Russia has said it has repelled several assaults by Ukrainian forces. Ukrainian officials have said their forces were ready for a long-expected counteroffensive but that there would be no formal announcement when it begins. "Plans like silence," said Deputy Minister of Ukraine Ganna Malyar said. "The offensive will not begin on social media." 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 dismisses reports of counteroffensive in Russian-held regions

<p>A residential building in Russia's southern city of Voronezh was hit by a drone on Friday (June 9), the local governor said. Alexander Gusev, who is the governor of the region, said on Telegram: "A drone fell on Belinsky Street in Voronezh." Gusev said that three people were hurt by shards of broken glass. &nbsp;</p>

<p>News agencies reported and photos posted on social media showed damage and scorch marks to the facade of the apartment block.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gusev said the three people had received medical attention on the spot and declined hospital treatment, suggesting their injuries were light.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-launches-long-awaited-counteroffensive-to-reclaim-russian-occupied-territory-report-602192">Ukraine dismisses reports of counteroffensive in Russian-held regions</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Ukraine has claimed that it is preparing for a counteroffensive. A report also emerged in The Washington Post on Thursday that the long-awaited counteroffensive has started, but Kyiv later denied it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In recent times, drone attacks have hit Russian cities, including Moscow. But this is the first such incident in Voronezh, a city of around one million people. It lies in the next region deeper into Russia than Belgorod, which has been heavily shelled by Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A Ukrainian Drone has reported Struck a High-Rise Residential Building in the Western Russian City of Voronezh after it was claimed to have been “Disabled” by Electronic Warfare Systems as it approached an Aircraft Factory in the City; Local Officials have stated that at least 3… <a href="https://t.co/FZUNBihawJ">pic.twitter.com/FZUNBihawJ</a></p>
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) <a href="https://twitter.com/sentdefender/status/1667093058154840064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The governor said that at least two people were injured in the attack, some 200 kilometres from the Ukraine border. Belinsky Street, where the drone fell, is in the centre of the city, near Voronezh State University.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian state media showed images of a building that had some shattered windows and part of its wall was blackened, where the drone had apparently hit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gusev said Russia's FSB security service and emergency services were working near the building and promised help for residents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Drone attacks have hit Russian cities throughout Moscow's offensive in Ukraine but have in recent months intensified.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Belgorod region, which borders the Voronezh region, has been heavily shelled this month, forcing thousands of people from border towns to flee.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kherson-rescue-continues-amid-heavy-shelling-by-russia-and-ukraine-russia-ukraine-war-602508/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Incident being probed</strong></h2>

<p>In the aftermath, the Kremlin said that Russia's intelligence services were investigating a drone attack on the Russian city of Voronezh, which it blamed on Ukraine.</p>

<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the security services were working to clarify details of the incident.</p>

<p>Peskov said, "We saw reports that it was shot down, and that it was a drone that had already been shot down. The details are being clarified, intelligence services are working on this."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Kyiv regime continues its attacks on civilian infrastructure, on residential buildings. Therefore, these activities of the Kyiv regime continue. We continue to fight it and we are moving on with the special military operation," Peskov added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


A residential building in Russia's southern city of Voronezh was hit by a drone on Friday (June 9), the local governor said. Alexander Gusev, who is the governor of the region, said on Telegram: "A drone fell on Belinsky Street in Voronezh.

A residential building in Russia's southern city of Voronezh was hit by a drone on Friday (June 9), the local governor said. Alexander Gusev, who is the governor of the region, said on Telegram: "A drone fell on Belinsky Street in Voronezh." Gusev said that three people were hurt by shards of broken glass. News agencies reported and photos posted on social media showed damage and scorch marks to the facade of the apartment block. Gusev said the three people had received medical attention on the spot and declined hospital treatment, suggesting their injuries were light. Also read: Ukraine dismisses reports of counteroffensive in Russian-held regions Ukraine has claimed that it is preparing for a counteroffensive. A report also emerged in The Washington Post on Thursday that the long-awaited counteroffensive has started, but Kyiv later denied it. In recent times, drone attacks have hit Russian cities, including Moscow. But this is the first such incident in Voronezh, a city of around one million people. It lies in the next region deeper into Russia than Belgorod, which has been heavily shelled by Ukraine. A Ukrainian Drone has reported Struck a High-Rise Residential Building in the Western Russian City of Voronezh after it was claimed to have been “Disabled” by Electronic Warfare Systems as it approached an Aircraft Factory in the City; Local Officials have stated that at least 3… pic.twitter.com/FZUNBihawJ — OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) June 9, 2023 × The governor said that at least two people were injured in the attack, some 200 kilometres from the Ukraine border. Belinsky Street, where the drone fell, is in the centre of the city, near Voronezh State University. Russian state media showed images of a building that had some shattered windows and part of its wall was blackened, where the drone had apparently hit. Gusev said Russia's FSB security service and emergency services were working near the building and promised help for residents. Drone attacks have hit Russian cities throughout Moscow's offensive in Ukraine but have in recent months intensified. The Belgorod region, which borders the Voronezh region, has been heavily shelled this month, forcing thousands of people from border towns to flee. Watch this report: × Incident being probed In the aftermath, the Kremlin said that Russia's intelligence services were investigating a drone attack on the Russian city of Voronezh, which it blamed on Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the security services were working to clarify details of the incident. Peskov said, "We saw reports that it was shot down, and that it was a drone that had already been shot down. The details are being clarified, intelligence services are working on this." "The Kyiv regime continues its attacks on civilian infrastructure, on residential buildings. Therefore, these activities of the Kyiv regime continue. We continue to fight it and we are moving on with the special military operation," Peskov added. (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: Drone hits residential building in Russian city of Voronezh

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday released a statement saying that his country would send aid to Ukraine "within the next few hours" after the Kakhovka dam breach triggered floods forcing the people to spend the night on roofs and trees.</p>

<p>"France condemns this atrocious act, which is endangering populations. Within the next few hours, we will send aid to meet immediate needs," Macron wrote on Twitter.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I expressed to President Zelensky my solidarity with the Ukrainian people after the attack on the Kakhovka dam. France condemns this atrocious act, which is endangering populations. Within the next few hours, we will send aid to meet immediate needs.</p>
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1666501130535182339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The announcement came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted to his French counterpart the urgent need to control the situation and handle the impact&nbsp;of the incident.</p>

<p>During the call with French President Emmanuel Macron, they "spoke about the current situation in Kherson region, the environmental and humanitarian consequences of the Russian act of terrorism, and outlined the urgent needs of Ukraine to eliminate the disaster", Zelensky said in a tweet. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I had a thorough phone call with the President of 🇫🇷 France <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>. Thanked him for the opportunity to participate in the Summit of the European Political Community and for support at the UN Security Council. Spoke about the current situation in Kherson region, the…</p>
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1666484256799858689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>People forced to spend the night on roofs, trees due to flooding</strong></h2>

<p>The destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam in Ukraine caused heavy flooding and people awaiting rescue in affected areas spent&nbsp;Tuesday night (June 6) on roofs or trees. The critical dam along the Dnipro River in Ukraine's Kherson region now held by Russia, collapsed on Tuesday. It is not yet clear who was responsible for the dam breach as both Kyiv&nbsp;and Moscow have been accusing each other.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Satellite images taken by Maxar Technologies showed houses and buildings submerged, with many showing only their roofs, and water taking over parks, land and infrastructure. And many such people slept on roofs and sat on trees, waiting to be rescued, the news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>42,000 people at direct risk from flooding: Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>The Ukrainian government estimated that around 42,000 people are at direct risk from flooding which is expected to peak on Wednesday, and hundreds and thousands would be left without access to drinking water.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the agriculture ministry said the disaster would cut off the water supply to 31 irrigation systems in the Ukrainian regions of Dnipro. The dam's destruction has left 94% of irrigation systems in Kherson, 74% of those in Zaporizhzhia, and 30% in Dnipro regions without water, the ministry added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-prime-minister-denys-shmyhal-calls-kakhovka-dam-destruction-environmental-catastrophe-601821">Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal calls Kakhovka dam destruction 'environmental catastrophe'</a></p>

<p>Residents in affected areas have started fleeing, carrying children on their shoulders, dogs in their arms, and belongings in plastic bags while rescuers used rubber boats to search areas where the waters reached above head height.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin reacts, calls Kakhovka dam attack 'barbaric act'</strong></h2>

<p>President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (June 7) called the attack on the Russian-occupied Kakhovka dam a "barbaric act", in his first public reaction to the situation. Moscow has already blamed Ukraine for the "catastrophic" attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The hydroelectric dam was ripped open early Tuesday after a reported blast and in the aftermath, Moscow and Kyiv have traded blame for the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kremlin said in a statement that Putin told Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan in a phone call that the breach was "a barbaric act which has led to a large-scale environmental and humanitarian catastrophe".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday released a statement saying that his country would send aid to Ukraine "within the next few hours" after the Kakhovka dam breach triggered floods forcing the people to spend the night on roofs and trees.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday released a statement saying that his country would send aid to Ukraine "within the next few hours" after the Kakhovka dam breach triggered floods forcing the people to spend the night on roofs and trees. "France condemns this atrocious act, which is endangering populations. Within the next few hours, we will send aid to meet immediate needs," Macron wrote on Twitter. I expressed to President Zelensky my solidarity with the Ukrainian people after the attack on the Kakhovka dam. France condemns this atrocious act, which is endangering populations. Within the next few hours, we will send aid to meet immediate needs. — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) June 7, 2023 × The announcement came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted to his French counterpart the urgent need to control the situation and handle the impact of the incident. During the call with French President Emmanuel Macron, they "spoke about the current situation in Kherson region, the environmental and humanitarian consequences of the Russian act of terrorism, and outlined the urgent needs of Ukraine to eliminate the disaster", Zelensky said in a tweet. I had a thorough phone call with the President of 🇫🇷 France @EmmanuelMacron. Thanked him for the opportunity to participate in the Summit of the European Political Community and for support at the UN Security Council. Spoke about the current situation in Kherson region, the… — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) June 7, 2023 × People forced to spend the night on roofs, trees due to flooding The destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam in Ukraine caused heavy flooding and people awaiting rescue in affected areas spent Tuesday night (June 6) on roofs or trees. The critical dam along the Dnipro River in Ukraine's Kherson region now held by Russia, collapsed on Tuesday. It is not yet clear who was responsible for the dam breach as both Kyiv and Moscow have been accusing each other. Satellite images taken by Maxar Technologies showed houses and buildings submerged, with many showing only their roofs, and water taking over parks, land and infrastructure. And many such people slept on roofs and sat on trees, waiting to be rescued, the news agency Reuters reported. 42,000 people at direct risk from flooding: Ukraine The Ukrainian government estimated that around 42,000 people are at direct risk from flooding which is expected to peak on Wednesday, and hundreds and thousands would be left without access to drinking water. In a statement, the agriculture ministry said the disaster would cut off the water supply to 31 irrigation systems in the Ukrainian regions of Dnipro. The dam's destruction has left 94% of irrigation systems in Kherson, 74% of those in Zaporizhzhia, and 30% in Dnipro regions without water, the ministry added. Also read: Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal calls Kakhovka dam destruction 'environmental catastrophe' Residents in affected areas have started fleeing, carrying children on their shoulders, dogs in their arms, and belongings in plastic bags while rescuers used rubber boats to search areas where the waters reached above head height. Putin reacts, calls Kakhovka dam attack 'barbaric act' President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (June 7) called the attack on the Russian-occupied Kakhovka dam a "barbaric act", in his first public reaction to the situation. Moscow has already blamed Ukraine for the "catastrophic" attack. The hydroelectric dam was ripped open early Tuesday after a reported blast and in the aftermath, Moscow and Kyiv have traded blame for the attack. The Kremlin said in a statement that Putin told Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan in a phone call that the breach was "a barbaric act which has led to a large-scale environmental and humanitarian catastrophe". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

French President Emmanuel Macron to send aid to Ukraine after Kakhovka dam breach

<p>President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (June 7) called the attack on the Russian-occupied Kakhovka dam a "barbaric act", in his first public reaction to the situation. Moscow has already blamed Ukraine for the "catastrophic" attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The hydroelectric dam was ripped open early Tuesday after a reported blast and in the aftermath, Moscow and Kyiv have traded blame for the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kremlin said in a statement that Putin told Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan in a phone call that the breach was "a barbaric act which has led to a large-scale environmental and humanitarian catastrophe".&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the call, the Russian president also congratulated his Turkish counterpart on officially assuming office, Kremlin said, further adding that Putin and Erdogan have agreed to maintain regular communication. The statement mentioned: "It has been agreed to maintain regular personal dialogue."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-the-ukraine-dam-partially-damaged-days-before-it-collapsed-satellite-images-show-detailed-insights-601745">Was the Ukraine dam partially damaged days before it collapsed? Satellite images show detailed insights</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Erdogan's office reported that on Wednesday, the Turkish president also spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and proposed to create an international commission to probe the destruction of a major dam in southern Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"President Erdogan said that a commission could be established with the participation of experts from the warring parties, the United Nations and the international community, including Turkey, for a detailed investigation into the explosion at Kakhovka dam," his office said after the call with Zelensky.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/another-example-of-price-of-war-on-people-united-nations-wion-newspoint-601749/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Massive destruction</strong></h2>

<p>The alleged attack triggered geopolitical tensions as the Kakhovka dam sits on the Dnipro River, which feeds a reservoir providing cooling water for the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station, some 150 kilometres upstream.</p>

<p>Thousands of civilians were forced to flee the flooded areas while raising fears of an ecological disaster after the destruction of the dam caused torrents of water to pour into the Dnipro.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky said the dam's collapse had left hundreds of thousands of people without normal access to drinking water. Ukraine's agriculture ministry said that the destruction of the Kakhovka hydroelectric power station will lead the fields in the south of Ukraine to "turn into deserts next year".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement issued late on Tuesday, the ministry said that the disaster would cut off the water supply to 31 irrigation systems in the Ukrainian regions of Dnipro, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added that in 2021 these systems provided irrigation on 584,000 hectares from which farmers harvested about four&nbsp;million tonnes of grains and oilseeds. It further mentioned that the dam's destruction has left 94 per cent&nbsp;of irrigation systems in Kherson, 74 per cent&nbsp;of those in Zaporizhzhia and 30 per cent&nbsp;of those in Dnipro regions without water.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (June 7) called the attack on the Russian-occupied Kakhovka dam a "barbaric act", in his first public reaction to the situation.

President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (June 7) called the attack on the Russian-occupied Kakhovka dam a "barbaric act", in his first public reaction to the situation. Moscow has already blamed Ukraine for the "catastrophic" attack. The hydroelectric dam was ripped open early Tuesday after a reported blast and in the aftermath, Moscow and Kyiv have traded blame for the attack. The Kremlin said in a statement that Putin told Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan in a phone call that the breach was "a barbaric act which has led to a large-scale environmental and humanitarian catastrophe". During the call, the Russian president also congratulated his Turkish counterpart on officially assuming office, Kremlin said, further adding that Putin and Erdogan have agreed to maintain regular communication. The statement mentioned: "It has been agreed to maintain regular personal dialogue." Also read: Was the Ukraine dam partially damaged days before it collapsed? Satellite images show detailed insights Erdogan's office reported that on Wednesday, the Turkish president also spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and proposed to create an international commission to probe the destruction of a major dam in southern Ukraine. "President Erdogan said that a commission could be established with the participation of experts from the warring parties, the United Nations and the international community, including Turkey, for a detailed investigation into the explosion at Kakhovka dam," his office said after the call with Zelensky. Watch this report: × Massive destruction The alleged attack triggered geopolitical tensions as the Kakhovka dam sits on the Dnipro River, which feeds a reservoir providing cooling water for the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station, some 150 kilometres upstream. Thousands of civilians were forced to flee the flooded areas while raising fears of an ecological disaster after the destruction of the dam caused torrents of water to pour into the Dnipro. Zelensky said the dam's collapse had left hundreds of thousands of people without normal access to drinking water. Ukraine's agriculture ministry said that the destruction of the Kakhovka hydroelectric power station will lead the fields in the south of Ukraine to "turn into deserts next year". In a statement issued late on Tuesday, the ministry said that the disaster would cut off the water supply to 31 irrigation systems in the Ukrainian regions of Dnipro, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. It added that in 2021 these systems provided irrigation on 584,000 hectares from which farmers harvested about four million tonnes of grains and oilseeds. It further mentioned that the dam's destruction has left 94 per cent of irrigation systems in Kherson, 74 per cent of those in Zaporizhzhia and 30 per cent of those in Dnipro regions without water. (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.

In his first reaction, Russia's Vladimir Putin calls Kakhovka dam blast a 'barbaric act'

<p>The Kakhovka dam was damaged recently, becoming the next flashpoint of the Russia- Ukrainian war. Both parties have accused the other of blowing up the structure. In the midst of this controversy, two women have drawn attention to the threats posed by the Kakhovka dam’s breakage. Alisa Malysheva and Alisa Malysheva dropped a series of pictures on Instagram with a poster that reads, "My Home Is Flooding Because Of Russia."</p>

<p>“Today Russians committed a terrorist act by blowing up the Kakhovka dam, which was under Russian control for more than a year. This is likely the biggest technological disaster Europe has experienced in decades," the post said.</p>

<p>The post continued, “As a result, more than 13 settlements were flooded, more than 1,300 people evacuated so far. The statistics is only about territory which is controlled by Ukraine, the consequences on the occupied by Russians territory is bigger and hidden. Destruction of hydroelectric power plants is considered a weapon of mass destruction and a war crime. Russians are dangerous for everything alive.”</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CtKC1ATtB52/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CtKC1ATtB52/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CtKC1ATtB52/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CtKC1ATtB52/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by соня квітка (@your_kvitka)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>On June 6, the Kakhovka dam, which maintains a massive reservoir of 2,155 square kilometres on the Dnipro river, was attacked. The dam provides water to a large region of the southern Ukrainian countryside, including the Russian-occupied Crimean Peninsula. It also serves to cool the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station, which is in control of Russian forces, as per Reuters. The reservoir holds 18 cubic kilometres of water, which is approximately equal to the Great Salt Lake in the United States.</p>

<p>The Kakhovka dam was constructed in the mid-1950s during the Soviet Union era. The reservoir is 140 kilometres long and 23 kilometres wide. Since the dam was damaged, images and videos of flooded cities and villages have been making the rounds on social media.</p>

<p>The &nbsp;Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station is not under any immediate threat. "Our current assessment is that there is no immediate risk to the safety of the Zaporizhzhia plant," International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi told Reuters.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><i><span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:
107%;font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:
minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;
mso-ansi-language:EN-IN;mso-fareast-language:EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA">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.</span></i></strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The Kakhovka dam was damaged recently, becoming the next flashpoint of the Russia- Ukrainian war. Both parties have accused the other of blowing up the structure.

The Kakhovka dam was damaged recently, becoming the next flashpoint of the Russia- Ukrainian war. Both parties have accused the other of blowing up the structure. In the midst of this controversy, two women have drawn attention to the threats posed by the Kakhovka dam’s breakage. Alisa Malysheva and Alisa Malysheva dropped a series of pictures on Instagram with a poster that reads, "My Home Is Flooding Because Of Russia." “Today Russians committed a terrorist act by blowing up the Kakhovka dam, which was under Russian control for more than a year. This is likely the biggest technological disaster Europe has experienced in decades," the post said. The post continued, “As a result, more than 13 settlements were flooded, more than 1,300 people evacuated so far. The statistics is only about territory which is controlled by Ukraine, the consequences on the occupied by Russians territory is bigger and hidden. Destruction of hydroelectric power plants is considered a weapon of mass destruction and a war crime. Russians are dangerous for everything alive.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by соня квітка (@your_kvitka) × On June 6, the Kakhovka dam, which maintains a massive reservoir of 2,155 square kilometres on the Dnipro river, was attacked. The dam provides water to a large region of the southern Ukrainian countryside, including the Russian-occupied Crimean Peninsula. It also serves to cool the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station, which is in control of Russian forces, as per Reuters. The reservoir holds 18 cubic kilometres of water, which is approximately equal to the Great Salt Lake in the United States. The Kakhovka dam was constructed in the mid-1950s during the Soviet Union era. The reservoir is 140 kilometres long and 23 kilometres wide. Since the dam was damaged, images and videos of flooded cities and villages have been making the rounds on social media. The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station is not under any immediate threat. "Our current assessment is that there is no immediate risk to the safety of the Zaporizhzhia plant," International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi told Reuters. 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

Ukrainian women accuse Russia of blowing up dam, rendering thousands homeless

<p>The White House said on Tuesday (June 6) that it cannot ‘conclusively’ say what was behind the destruction of a massive dam in Ukraine. However, White House Spokesman John Kirby said that reports that the blast was caused by Russia were being assessed. Russia has been in occupation of the dam since last year.</p>

<p>Kirby noted that the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro River may likely have caused "many deaths" and evacuation of thousands of Ukrainians. Dnipro River separates Russian and Ukrainian forces in southern Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia's rare acknowledgment of losses</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russias-rare-acknowledgment-of-losses-russia-ukraine-war-updates-601462/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Kirby told reporters the damage could have a devastating impact on Ukraine's energy security.</p>

<p>"We've seen the reports that Russia was responsible for the explosion at the dam," he said. "We're doing the best we can to assess those reports, and we are working with the Ukrainians to gather more information, but we cannot say conclusively what happened."</p>

<p>Ukraine has accused Russia of blowing up the Nova Kakhovka dam. Meanwhile, the Kremlin has claimed that it was Ukraine that sabotaged the dam.</p>

<p>Kyiv said the destruction of the dam — seized by Russia in the early hours of the war — was an attempt by Moscow to hamper its long-awaited offensive, which Ukraine's leader stressed would not be affected.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-russia-ukraine-war-nova-kakhovka-dam-attack-what-we-know-so-far-601391">Explained | What we know so far about the Nova Kakhovka dam attack in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>Kirby opined that it was too soon to discuss the effect of the development on Ukraine's long-planned counteroffensive. He did stress that Russian forces were in illegal occupation of the dam and were in control of it when the blast took place. However, Kirby said that US officials had not determined whether the blast was an intentional act.</p>

<h2><strong>Destruction of dam a war crime?</strong></h2>

<p>Asked if the destruction of the dam would constitute a war crime, Kirby said international law forbade the destruction of civilian infrastructure.</p>

<p>He said US officials would continue to work with humanitarian partners on the ground to supply aid to those affected.</p>

<p>Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24 last year. After sustained territorial gains in the first few months of the war, the Russian forces had to retreat in the face of the Ukrainian counteroffensive. Large swathes of land were won back by Ukrainian forces. As much as the credit goes to the fortitude of the Ukrainian military, the massive international help has been seen as a major factor that affected the situation on the battlefield.</p>

<p>Western countries, led by the United States, have poured in millions and millions in humanitarian as well as military help. This has boosted the military capacity of Ukraine.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>

<p><strong><em>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</em></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The White House said on Tuesday (June 6) that it cannot ‘conclusively’ say what was behind the destruction of a massive dam in Ukraine. However, White House Spokesman John Kirby said that reports that the blast was caused by Russia were being assessed.

The White House said on Tuesday (June 6) that it cannot ‘conclusively’ say what was behind the destruction of a massive dam in Ukraine. However, White House Spokesman John Kirby said that reports that the blast was caused by Russia were being assessed. Russia has been in occupation of the dam since last year. Kirby noted that the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro River may likely have caused "many deaths" and evacuation of thousands of Ukrainians. Dnipro River separates Russian and Ukrainian forces in southern Ukraine. Watch | Russia's rare acknowledgment of losses × Kirby told reporters the damage could have a devastating impact on Ukraine's energy security. "We've seen the reports that Russia was responsible for the explosion at the dam," he said. "We're doing the best we can to assess those reports, and we are working with the Ukrainians to gather more information, but we cannot say conclusively what happened." Ukraine has accused Russia of blowing up the Nova Kakhovka dam. Meanwhile, the Kremlin has claimed that it was Ukraine that sabotaged the dam. Kyiv said the destruction of the dam — seized by Russia in the early hours of the war — was an attempt by Moscow to hamper its long-awaited offensive, which Ukraine's leader stressed would not be affected. Also Read | Explained | What we know so far about the Nova Kakhovka dam attack in Ukraine Kirby opined that it was too soon to discuss the effect of the development on Ukraine's long-planned counteroffensive. He did stress that Russian forces were in illegal occupation of the dam and were in control of it when the blast took place. However, Kirby said that US officials had not determined whether the blast was an intentional act. Destruction of dam a war crime? Asked if the destruction of the dam would constitute a war crime, Kirby said international law forbade the destruction of civilian infrastructure. He said US officials would continue to work with humanitarian partners on the ground to supply aid to those affected. Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24 last year. After sustained territorial gains in the first few months of the war, the Russian forces had to retreat in the face of the Ukrainian counteroffensive. Large swathes of land were won back by Ukrainian forces. As much as the credit goes to the fortitude of the Ukrainian military, the massive international help has been seen as a major factor that affected the situation on the battlefield. Western countries, led by the United States, have poured in millions and millions in humanitarian as well as military help. This has boosted the military capacity of Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine dam explosion: US not sure but possibility of Russian role being assessed

<p>Kyiv called Russia a “terrorist state,” on Tuesday (June 6), at the top United Nations court at the hearing of Moscow’s alleged backing of pro-Russian separatists accused of shooting down an aircraft in 2014 over Ukraine which killed nearly 300 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The hearing about the 2014 case also came amid the ongoing conflict between the two countries and hours after the attack on the Soviet-era Nova Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro River in the Russia-occupied part of southern Ukraine with both Moscow and Kyiv blaming&nbsp;each other.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What was the hearing about?</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, the hearing at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) was the first time where Russian and Ukrainian lawyers faced each other since the beginning of what Moscow has called its “special military operation” in Ukraine. The case was filed by Kyiv in 2017 at the World Court against the&nbsp;Moscow-backed rebels and accused Russia of violating the UN anti-terrorism treaty. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The legal teams from both countries comprised&nbsp;dozens of representatives but on Tuesday only Ukraine presented arguments before a panel of 16 judges at the ICJ.&nbsp;Russia will get the opportunity to respond on Thursday. Ukraine will then respond on June 12 and Russia will present again two days later.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Kyiv, Moscow violated the UN conventions for financing terrorism and racial discrimination as it allegedly equipped and funded pro-Russian forces who shot down the Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17 over Ukraine killing all 298 passengers and crew on board.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777 plane&nbsp;was reportedly shot down by a Russian-made missile in July. Moscow&nbsp;has since denied these allegations. There was also violence that&nbsp;took place in 2014 in Ukraine when at least 13,000 people were killed when pro-European Union protesters overthrew Kyiv’s Moscow-allied government. It was not soon after that Russia had forcibly annexed Crimea.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian representatives call Russia ‘terrorist state’</strong></h2>

<p>In his opening remarks, Ukrainian Ambassador-at-Large Anton Korynevych spoke about the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam which Kyiv has blamed Moscow for. “Russia cannot defeat us on the battlefield, so it targets civilian infrastructure to try to freeze us into submission,” said the Ukrainian diplomat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Russia’s actions are the actions of a terrorist state, an aggressor. But such actions did not appear out of the blue. They are the tragic but logical outcome of the situation we brought to this court’s attention back in 2017,”&nbsp;he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian diplomat reiterating statements from officials in Kyiv, said, “Just today, Russia blew up a major dam…causing significant civilian evacuations, ecological damage and threatening the safety of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.”</p>

<p>Ukraine has also called on the Hague-based court to order Russia to stop discrimination against the Tatar ethnic group in Crimea. Korynevych also said that Russia’s “contempt for international law didn't start in 2022” but when it annexed Crimea in 2014, adding that Moscow then “engaged in a campaign of cultural erasure, taking aim at ethnic Ukrainians and Crimean Tatars.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Russia is now “trying to wipe us from the map” with the ongoing invasion, said the Ukrainian lawyer. Moscow&nbsp;has denied the claims of systematic human rights abuses in the Ukrainian territory that it controls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian lawyers also spoke about the Dutch court verdict in November that convicted two Russians and a Ukrainian separatist to life in absentia over the shooting of MH17 and their role. The court also found Russia had “overall control” over the separatist forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian lawyers said that the Russian officials were “guilty of terrorism financing” as they supplied the missile knowing it would be used to shoot down an aircraft. Ukrainian lawyer Marney Cheek also said how Moscow also supplied rebels with rocket systems that were used in a “reign of terror” on civilians in 2015.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“What did Russia do to prevent and suppress this financing of terrorism? Nothing,” the lawyer added.<br />
<br />
Notably, Russia has previously tried to get the case filed by Ukraine&nbsp;thrown out saying that the International Criminal Court (ICC) does not have jurisdiction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2022, after Russia began its invasion of Ukraine, Kyiv filed a separate case which accused Moscow of planning genocide. This led the ICJ to order a suspension of the invasion. The ICC also issued a warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin in March, on war crimes over forced deportations of Ukrainian children.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Kyiv called Russia a “terrorist state,” on Tuesday (June 6), at the top United Nations court at the hearing of Moscow’s alleged backing of pro-Russian separatists accused of shooting down an aircraft in 2014 over Ukraine which killed nearly 300 people.

Kyiv called Russia a “terrorist state,” on Tuesday (June 6), at the top United Nations court at the hearing of Moscow’s alleged backing of pro-Russian separatists accused of shooting down an aircraft in 2014 over Ukraine which killed nearly 300 people. The hearing about the 2014 case also came amid the ongoing conflict between the two countries and hours after the attack on the Soviet-era Nova Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro River in the Russia-occupied part of southern Ukraine with both Moscow and Kyiv blaming each other. What was the hearing about? Notably, the hearing at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) was the first time where Russian and Ukrainian lawyers faced each other since the beginning of what Moscow has called its “special military operation” in Ukraine. The case was filed by Kyiv in 2017 at the World Court against the Moscow-backed rebels and accused Russia of violating the UN anti-terrorism treaty. The legal teams from both countries comprised dozens of representatives but on Tuesday only Ukraine presented arguments before a panel of 16 judges at the ICJ. Russia will get the opportunity to respond on Thursday. Ukraine will then respond on June 12 and Russia will present again two days later. According to Kyiv, Moscow violated the UN conventions for financing terrorism and racial discrimination as it allegedly equipped and funded pro-Russian forces who shot down the Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17 over Ukraine killing all 298 passengers and crew on board. The Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777 plane was reportedly shot down by a Russian-made missile in July. Moscow has since denied these allegations. There was also violence that took place in 2014 in Ukraine when at least 13,000 people were killed when pro-European Union protesters overthrew Kyiv’s Moscow-allied government. It was not soon after that Russia had forcibly annexed Crimea. Ukrainian representatives call Russia ‘terrorist state’ In his opening remarks, Ukrainian Ambassador-at-Large Anton Korynevych spoke about the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam which Kyiv has blamed Moscow for. “Russia cannot defeat us on the battlefield, so it targets civilian infrastructure to try to freeze us into submission,” said the Ukrainian diplomat. “Russia’s actions are the actions of a terrorist state, an aggressor. But such actions did not appear out of the blue. They are the tragic but logical outcome of the situation we brought to this court’s attention back in 2017,” he added. The Ukrainian diplomat reiterating statements from officials in Kyiv, said, “Just today, Russia blew up a major dam…causing significant civilian evacuations, ecological damage and threatening the safety of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.” Ukraine has also called on the Hague-based court to order Russia to stop discrimination against the Tatar ethnic group in Crimea. Korynevych also said that Russia’s “contempt for international law didn't start in 2022” but when it annexed Crimea in 2014, adding that Moscow then “engaged in a campaign of cultural erasure, taking aim at ethnic Ukrainians and Crimean Tatars.” However, Russia is now “trying to wipe us from the map” with the ongoing invasion, said the Ukrainian lawyer. Moscow has denied the claims of systematic human rights abuses in the Ukrainian territory that it controls. The Ukrainian lawyers also spoke about the Dutch court verdict in November that convicted two Russians and a Ukrainian separatist to life in absentia over the shooting of MH17 and their role. The court also found Russia had “overall control” over the separatist forces. Ukrainian lawyers said that the Russian officials were “guilty of terrorism financing” as they supplied the missile knowing it would be used to shoot down an aircraft. Ukrainian lawyer Marney Cheek also said how Moscow also supplied rebels with rocket systems that were used in a “reign of terror” on civilians in 2015. “What did Russia do to prevent and suppress this financing of terrorism? Nothing,” the lawyer added. Notably, Russia has previously tried to get the case filed by Ukraine thrown out saying that the International Criminal Court (ICC) does not have jurisdiction. In 2022, after Russia began its invasion of Ukraine, Kyiv filed a separate case which accused Moscow of planning genocide. This led the ICJ to order a suspension of the invasion. The ICC also issued a warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin in March, on war crimes over forced deportations of Ukrainian children. (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.

‘Terrorist state’: Ukraine slams Russia at International Court of Justice hearing