Ukrainian officials said that Russia launched a new attack on Ukraine on Tuesday (May 9), on the day of the Victory Day celebration in Moscow. No casualties were reported and officials said that Ukraine's air defences destroyed 23 of 25 missiles fired, mostly at the capital Kyiv.&nbsp;

The attack was said to be the fifth of this month and took place a day after massive missile strikes on Ukraine which injured at least five people. &nbsp;

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war was halted for a period since early March, but Russia has launched its biggest drone swarm yet in a renewed air campaign unleashed 10 days ago. &nbsp;

Serhiy Popko, who is the head of Kyiv's city military administration, said in comments posted on the Telegram messaging app that "as at the front, the plans of the aggressor failed".&nbsp;

Ukraine's air force said on its Telegram messaging app that "overnight into the 'sacred' May 9, (they) launched an attack on the territory of Ukraine".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Popko said Russian forces were trying "to kill as many civilians as possible on this day" and the attack was reportedly carried out with cruise missiles from the Caspian Sea region.&nbsp;

Popko said that "Kyiv stood up again and will stand up in the future!"&nbsp;

<h2>Victory Day celebrations&nbsp;</h2>

Reports emerged that during the Victory Day celebrations, Russian cruise missiles exploded in the air over Kyiv. During the Victory Day parade in Moscow's Red Square, &nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the world is at a "turning point", and a "war" was unleashed on Russia. 
&nbsp; 
"Today civilisation is again at a decisive turning point. A war has been unleashed against our motherland," the Russian president said, further calling for Russia to be victorious: "For Russia, for our armed forces, for victory! Hurrah!"&nbsp;

Developments show that Moscow is looking forward to escalating the offence but they suffered a minor setback when Russia's mercenary Wagner forces said they didn't receive enough weapons to hold the positions.&nbsp;

The battle of Bakhmut has been intensified and Wagner forces have borne the brunt of the deadly fighting, but the head of the mercenary group had threatened to pull out from the position but later he changed the stance.&nbsp;

Now, the head of the group said that they have yet to receive the ammunition promised by Moscow — taking a U-turn from his recent comment that supplies had begun to arrive.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ukraine is also expected to launch a counteroffensive in the east and south.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Ukrainian officials said that Russia launched a new attack on Ukraine on Tuesday (May 9), on the day of the Victory Day celebration in Moscow. No casualties were reported and officials said that Ukraine's air defences destroyed 23 of 25 missiles fired, mostly at the capital Kyiv.

Ukrainian officials said that Russia launched a new attack on Ukraine on Tuesday (May 9), on the day of the Victory Day celebration in Moscow. No casualties were reported and officials said that Ukraine's air defences destroyed 23 of 25 missiles fired, mostly at the capital Kyiv. The attack was said to be the fifth of this month and took place a day after massive missile strikes on Ukraine which injured at least five people. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war was halted for a period since early March, but Russia has launched its biggest drone swarm yet in a renewed air campaign unleashed 10 days ago. Serhiy Popko, who is the head of Kyiv's city military administration, said in comments posted on the Telegram messaging app that "as at the front, the plans of the aggressor failed". Ukraine's air force said on its Telegram messaging app that "overnight into the 'sacred' May 9, (they) launched an attack on the territory of Ukraine". Meanwhile, Popko said Russian forces were trying "to kill as many civilians as possible on this day" and the attack was reportedly carried out with cruise missiles from the Caspian Sea region. Popko said that "Kyiv stood up again and will stand up in the future!" Victory Day celebrations Reports emerged that during the Victory Day celebrations, Russian cruise missiles exploded in the air over Kyiv. During the Victory Day parade in Moscow's Red Square, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the world is at a "turning point", and a "war" was unleashed on Russia. "Today civilisation is again at a decisive turning point. A war has been unleashed against our motherland," the Russian president said, further calling for Russia to be victorious: "For Russia, for our armed forces, for victory! Hurrah!" Developments show that Moscow is looking forward to escalating the offence but they suffered a minor setback when Russia's mercenary Wagner forces said they didn't receive enough weapons to hold the positions. The battle of Bakhmut has been intensified and Wagner forces have borne the brunt of the deadly fighting, but the head of the mercenary group had threatened to pull out from the position but later he changed the stance. Now, the head of the group said that they have yet to receive the ammunition promised by Moscow — taking a U-turn from his recent comment that supplies had begun to arrive. Meanwhile, Ukraine is also expected to launch a counteroffensive in the east and south. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia launches new attack on Ukraine on Moscow's Victory Day

At least five people were reportedly injured in Kviv after Russia launched a fresh overnight assault across Ukraine in the wee hours of Monday.&nbsp;

News agency Reuters reported while citing an official that an explosion was heard following a missile attack that hit the Black Sea city of Odesa overnight. The official also mentioned that air raid alerts rang out in other regions of the country including the capital, Kyiv.&nbsp;

As quoted, Serhiy Bratchuk, who is a spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, said on his Telegram channel that "there has been an enemy missile attack."

"Air defence is working on the outskirts of Kyiv!" Kyiv's military administration said on its Telegram channel, and issued a warning that "stay in the shelters until the air raid alarm goes off!"&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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Vitali Klitschko, Kyiv mayor provided details on his Telegram channel as he said that three people were injured in the city's Solomyanskyi district. He added that two others were injured when drone wreckage fell on a building in the Sviatoshyn district.&nbsp;

The city's military administration noted in a post on Telegram: "Likely as a result of debris falling on a parked car in the yard of a residential building, the car caught fire. There is a recorded fall of debris on a residential building."&nbsp;

According to Kyiv's military administration, drone wreckage fell on a runway of the Zhuliany airport, one of the two passenger airports of the Ukrainian capital. No casualties were reported so far.&nbsp;

The strikes were reported at a time when Moscow is preparing for its cherished Victory Day holiday that marks the anniversary of its defeat of Nazi Germany.&nbsp;

<h2>Battle of Bakhmut&nbsp;</h2>

The battle of Bakhmut has been intensified as Ukraine's top general in charge of the defence of the besieged city said that Russia hopes to take it by Tuesday.&nbsp;

Bakhmut remained a flashpoint in the ongoing Ukraine war as Russian troops have battled since last summer to capture Bakhmut. Experts have noted that the city has a political importance which has come to surpass any strategic value.&nbsp;

On Saturday, the commander of Ukraine's ground forces, Oleksandr Syrsky, visited the eastern front and in a statement published on Sunday, he said, "The enemy is not going to change its plans and is doing everything possible to take control of Bakhmut."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the head of the Wagner mercenary group said on Sunday that Russia had promised his fighters enough ammunition to stay in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. He had earlier threatened to pull out.&nbsp;

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;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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At least five people were reportedly injured in Kviv after Russia launched a fresh overnight assault across Ukraine in the wee hours of Monday. News agency Reuters reported while citing an official that an explosion was heard following a missile attack that hit the Black Sea city of Odesa overnight.

At least five people were reportedly injured in Kviv after Russia launched a fresh overnight assault across Ukraine in the wee hours of Monday. News agency Reuters reported while citing an official that an explosion was heard following a missile attack that hit the Black Sea city of Odesa overnight. The official also mentioned that air raid alerts rang out in other regions of the country including the capital, Kyiv. As quoted, Serhiy Bratchuk, who is a spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, said on his Telegram channel that "there has been an enemy missile attack." "Air defence is working on the outskirts of Kyiv!" Kyiv's military administration said on its Telegram channel, and issued a warning that "stay in the shelters until the air raid alarm goes off!" Watch this report: × Vitali Klitschko, Kyiv mayor provided details on his Telegram channel as he said that three people were injured in the city's Solomyanskyi district. He added that two others were injured when drone wreckage fell on a building in the Sviatoshyn district. The city's military administration noted in a post on Telegram: "Likely as a result of debris falling on a parked car in the yard of a residential building, the car caught fire. There is a recorded fall of debris on a residential building." According to Kyiv's military administration, drone wreckage fell on a runway of the Zhuliany airport, one of the two passenger airports of the Ukrainian capital. No casualties were reported so far. The strikes were reported at a time when Moscow is preparing for its cherished Victory Day holiday that marks the anniversary of its defeat of Nazi Germany. Battle of Bakhmut The battle of Bakhmut has been intensified as Ukraine's top general in charge of the defence of the besieged city said that Russia hopes to take it by Tuesday. Bakhmut remained a flashpoint in the ongoing Ukraine war as Russian troops have battled since last summer to capture Bakhmut. Experts have noted that the city has a political importance which has come to surpass any strategic value. On Saturday, the commander of Ukraine's ground forces, Oleksandr Syrsky, visited the eastern front and in a statement published on Sunday, he said, "The enemy is not going to change its plans and is doing everything possible to take control of Bakhmut." Meanwhile, the head of the Wagner mercenary group said on Sunday that Russia had promised his fighters enough ammunition to stay in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. He had earlier threatened to pull out. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia launches wave of fresh strikes across Ukraine, five injured

Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Saturday asked Moscow to let him hand over the Bakhmut positions to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov.&nbsp;

"I ask you to issue a combat order before 00:00 on May 10 concerning the transfer of the positions of the Wagner paramilitary units in Bakhmut and its periphery, to the units of the Akhmat battalion," Yevgeny Prigozhin said in a letter to Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.

The Akhmat battalion refers to the Chechen combat units under the command of Kadyrov, who has ruled Russia's Muslim-majority republic Chechnya for the last decade and a half.

Prigozhin said that his fighters would be compelled to withdraw because of a long "ammunition famine".

He condemned the Russian defence ministry for delivering only 32 per cent of the required ammunition since October 2022.&nbsp;

<h2>Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov to send forces replacing Wagner in Bakhmut</h2>

Chechen leader and a staunch ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ramzan Kadyrov, said his forces are ready to replace Wagner Group mercenaries in Bakhmut.&nbsp;

This comes after Wagner Group announced the withdrawal of forces from the Bakhmut region with its leader Prigozhin citing lack of ammunition as the reason.&nbsp;

Kadyrov, reacting to Wagner's comments on leaving Bakhmut and giving the command to Russian Defence Ministry’s forces, said, "If the elder brother Prigozhin and Wagner fighters leave, the General Staff will lose an experienced combat unit, but the younger brother Kadyrov and the Akhmat unit will replace them in Artyomovsk."

"If such a scenario is implemented, our fighters are ready to advance and take the city. However, we would like the last remaining two kilometres to be taken not at the expense of the lives of our warriors but as a result of mutual understanding, support and the determination of commanders and soldiers," Kadyrov noted.

"The interests of the state and the country’s security should come first. Once the special military operation is over, I would like all of us to emerge victorious and all the soldiers, commanders and Russian patriots to stand together," Kadyrov added.

<h2>Russia's Wagner threatens to leave Bakhmut</h2>

Wagner Group chief on Friday announced that on May 10 it will pull out from the Bakhmut region where the battle to overrun Ukrainian resistance is continuing with sharp intensity for nearly two months.&nbsp;

Wagner Group boss Yevgeny Prigozhin said that his men were facing a lack of ammunition and that he would expect the army to take their place in Bakhmut next Wednesday.

"My lads will not suffer useless and unjustified losses in Bakhmut without ammunition," Prigozhin said in a video accompanying a written withdrawal announcement addressed to military leaders including President Vladimir Putin.

In the announcement, he condemned 'bureaucrats' for holding back the ammunition supplies despite knowing that Wagner's target date to capture the city was May 9, which is also the day of the World War II commemoration.

"If, because of your petty jealousy, you do not want to give the Russian people the victory of taking Bakhmut, that's your problem," Prigozhin added in the video.

As per RIA news agency reports, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu had instructed one of his deputy ministers to ensure troops had all the weapons they needed.&nbsp;

(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.&nbsp;

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Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Saturday asked Moscow to let him hand over the Bakhmut positions to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. "I ask you to issue a combat order before 00:00 on May 10 concerning the transfer of the positions of the Wagner paramilitary units in Bakhmut and its periphery, to the units of the Akhmat battalion," Yevgeny Prigozhin said in a letter to Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.

Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Saturday asked Moscow to let him hand over the Bakhmut positions to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. "I ask you to issue a combat order before 00:00 on May 10 concerning the transfer of the positions of the Wagner paramilitary units in Bakhmut and its periphery, to the units of the Akhmat battalion," Yevgeny Prigozhin said in a letter to Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. The Akhmat battalion refers to the Chechen combat units under the command of Kadyrov, who has ruled Russia's Muslim-majority republic Chechnya for the last decade and a half. Prigozhin said that his fighters would be compelled to withdraw because of a long "ammunition famine". He condemned the Russian defence ministry for delivering only 32 per cent of the required ammunition since October 2022. Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov to send forces replacing Wagner in Bakhmut Chechen leader and a staunch ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ramzan Kadyrov, said his forces are ready to replace Wagner Group mercenaries in Bakhmut. This comes after Wagner Group announced the withdrawal of forces from the Bakhmut region with its leader Prigozhin citing lack of ammunition as the reason. Kadyrov, reacting to Wagner's comments on leaving Bakhmut and giving the command to Russian Defence Ministry’s forces, said, "If the elder brother Prigozhin and Wagner fighters leave, the General Staff will lose an experienced combat unit, but the younger brother Kadyrov and the Akhmat unit will replace them in Artyomovsk." "If such a scenario is implemented, our fighters are ready to advance and take the city. However, we would like the last remaining two kilometres to be taken not at the expense of the lives of our warriors but as a result of mutual understanding, support and the determination of commanders and soldiers," Kadyrov noted. "The interests of the state and the country’s security should come first. Once the special military operation is over, I would like all of us to emerge victorious and all the soldiers, commanders and Russian patriots to stand together," Kadyrov added. Russia's Wagner threatens to leave Bakhmut Wagner Group chief on Friday announced that on May 10 it will pull out from the Bakhmut region where the battle to overrun Ukrainian resistance is continuing with sharp intensity for nearly two months. Wagner Group boss Yevgeny Prigozhin said that his men were facing a lack of ammunition and that he would expect the army to take their place in Bakhmut next Wednesday. "My lads will not suffer useless and unjustified losses in Bakhmut without ammunition," Prigozhin said in a video accompanying a written withdrawal announcement addressed to military leaders including President Vladimir Putin. In the announcement, he condemned 'bureaucrats' for holding back the ammunition supplies despite knowing that Wagner's target date to capture the city was May 9, which is also the day of the World War II commemoration. "If, because of your petty jealousy, you do not want to give the Russian people the victory of taking Bakhmut, that's your problem," Prigozhin added in the video. As per RIA news agency reports, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu had instructed one of his deputy ministers to ensure troops had all the weapons they needed. (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

Wagner chief asks Moscow to let him hand over Bakhmut positions to Chechen leader

The situation in the Russia-Ukraine war continues to remain tense as a Russian-installed official said early on Sunday that Ukraine struck the Crimean Peninsula overnight with over 10 drones, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

As per reports, three of these drones hit the port of Sevastopol. The official added that Sevastopol's air defence systems were able to successfully thwart all of the strikes.

"No objects (in Sevastopol) were damaged," the Moscow-installed Sevastopol governor Mikhail Razvozhayev said on Telegram.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-kishida-heads-to-seoul-for-landmark-summit-with-yoon-589868">Japan's Kishida heads to Seoul for landmark summit with Yoon</a>

No damages from the attacks were reported from elsewhere on the Crimean Peninsula. Crimea was seized by Russia from Ukraine in 2014. Russian forces launched a major military offensive into Ukraine, which included significant advances into Ukrainian territory. The offensive was characterized by intense fighting, and many civilians were displaced from their homes.

The war in Eastern Europe is entering a significant phase with Ukraine's spring offensive. With this, there are significant stakes for war.

According to preliminary information, there were no injuries reported following Ukraine's drone strikes on Crimea. Telegram channel Baza, which has connections to Russian law enforcement, claimed the incident to be a series of strikes on Crimea earlier on Sunday.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-at-least-nine-shot-at-mall-in-texas-shooter-killed-by-police-589857">At least nine people killed in shooting at Texas mall; gunman killed by police</a>

Explosions took place in Sevastopol and Saki, where Russia has an air base. A few other places also came under attack, as per Ukrainian Telegram channels.&nbsp;

Watch | World at War: How is Russia's Wagner Group sending weapons into Sudan?

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The last two weeks have seen an increase in attacks against Russian-controlled locations, particularly in Crimea. Without denying any involvement in the strikes, Ukraine claims that destroying infrastructure is a prelude to its upcoming ground offensive.

For months, the war's most severe combat has been taking place in the battle for Bakhmut. Russia views this as a crucial battlefield to advance to other cities in eastern Ukraine's Donbas area.

Thousands of lives have reportedly been lost on both sides during this battle. Despite being driven back in recent weeks, Ukrainian forces were still able to maintain some degree of control over the region while dealing as much damage as they could to both regular Russian soldiers and soldiers from the Wagner mercenary group.

The Wagner group, which has led the charge in the conflict to seize Bakhmut, has declared it will leave the area on 10th May. Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of Wagner Group, stated in a statement on Friday that the retreat was because of a shortage of ammunition supply.

Chechen leader and a staunch ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ramzan Kadyrov, said his forces are ready to replace Wagner Group mercenaries in Bakhmut.&nbsp;

Kadyrov is a former militia leader who fought against Russian forces during the First Chechen War in the 1990s. However, he later switched sides and became a loyal supporter of the Russian government when he abandoned Chechnya's separatist movement.&nbsp;

(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.)

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The situation in the Russia-Ukraine war continues to remain tense as a Russian-installed official said early on Sunday that Ukraine struck the Crimean Peninsula overnight with over 10 drones, reported Reuters.

The situation in the Russia-Ukraine war continues to remain tense as a Russian-installed official said early on Sunday that Ukraine struck the Crimean Peninsula overnight with over 10 drones, reported Reuters. As per reports, three of these drones hit the port of Sevastopol. The official added that Sevastopol's air defence systems were able to successfully thwart all of the strikes. "No objects (in Sevastopol) were damaged," the Moscow-installed Sevastopol governor Mikhail Razvozhayev said on Telegram. Also Read | Japan's Kishida heads to Seoul for landmark summit with Yoon No damages from the attacks were reported from elsewhere on the Crimean Peninsula. Crimea was seized by Russia from Ukraine in 2014. Russian forces launched a major military offensive into Ukraine, which included significant advances into Ukrainian territory. The offensive was characterized by intense fighting, and many civilians were displaced from their homes. The war in Eastern Europe is entering a significant phase with Ukraine's spring offensive. With this, there are significant stakes for war. According to preliminary information, there were no injuries reported following Ukraine's drone strikes on Crimea. Telegram channel Baza, which has connections to Russian law enforcement, claimed the incident to be a series of strikes on Crimea earlier on Sunday. Also Read | At least nine people killed in shooting at Texas mall; gunman killed by police Explosions took place in Sevastopol and Saki, where Russia has an air base. A few other places also came under attack, as per Ukrainian Telegram channels. Watch | World at War: How is Russia's Wagner Group sending weapons into Sudan? × The last two weeks have seen an increase in attacks against Russian-controlled locations, particularly in Crimea. Without denying any involvement in the strikes, Ukraine claims that destroying infrastructure is a prelude to its upcoming ground offensive. For months, the war's most severe combat has been taking place in the battle for Bakhmut. Russia views this as a crucial battlefield to advance to other cities in eastern Ukraine's Donbas area. Thousands of lives have reportedly been lost on both sides during this battle. Despite being driven back in recent weeks, Ukrainian forces were still able to maintain some degree of control over the region while dealing as much damage as they could to both regular Russian soldiers and soldiers from the Wagner mercenary group. The Wagner group, which has led the charge in the conflict to seize Bakhmut, has declared it will leave the area on 10th May. Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of Wagner Group, stated in a statement on Friday that the retreat was because of a shortage of ammunition supply. Chechen leader and a staunch ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ramzan Kadyrov, said his forces are ready to replace Wagner Group mercenaries in Bakhmut. Kadyrov is a former militia leader who fought against Russian forces during the First Chechen War in the 1990s. However, he later switched sides and became a loyal supporter of the Russian government when he abandoned Chechnya's separatist movement. (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 strikes Crimean peninsula with over 10 drones in overnight attack

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) head Rafael Grossi warned on Saturday (May 7) that the situation around the Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant was becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) head Rafael Grossi warned on Saturday (May 7) that the situation around the Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant was becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous. "The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous," Grossi said on the IAEA's website and called for measures to ensure the plant's safe operation. "I'm extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant. We must act now to prevent the threat of a severe nuclear accident and its associated consequences for the population and the environment," Grossi added. ALSO READ | Explained: Ukraine downs Russia’s hypersonic Kinzhal missile. Here’s all you need to know The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant was seized by Russian forces just days after Moscow launched the invasion of Ukraine in February last year. In March, IAEA head Grossi paid a visit to the plant as part of efforts to speak to both sides to secure an agreement on safeguards to ensure the station's safe operation. He repeatedly warned of the dangers of military operations around the plant. On Friday, the Russian-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of Zaporizhzhia Yevgeny Balitsky said he ordered the evacuation of villages close to the front line with Ukrainian forces there, adding that Ukrainian shelling had intensified in the area recently. Russian nationalist writer injured in car bombing: Report Also on Saturday, prominent Russian nationalist writer Zakhar Prilepin was injured in a car bombing in Russia's Nizhny Novgorod region. According to a report by BBC on Sunday, Prilepin suffered fractures and his driver was killed. Russian investigators claimed they were questioning a suspect named Alexander Permyakov who has admitted operating for Ukraine. ALSO READ | Ukraine strikes Crimean peninsula with over 10 drones The suspect was caught in a neighbouring village. According to the Investigative Committee (SK), the suspect admitted to doing an assignment for the Ukrainian secret services. The Ukrainian government has not commented on the bombing so far. Saturday's car explosion comes a month after pro-Kremlin blogger Vladlen Tatarsky was killed in a bombing at a cafe in St Petersburg. 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: Situation around Zaporizhzhia plant becoming increasingly unpredictable, says IAEA head

Russia on Saturday blamed Ukraine and the West for the car explosion which involved the pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin.

A Russian nationalist and prominent pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin was injured in a car “explosion” on Saturday and one person was killed, informed the interior ministry after multiple drone attacks took place recently as the fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces escalated.

"According to initial reports, one person was killed by the explosion, and the writer Zakhar Prilepin, who was in the car, was injured" in the Nizhny Novgorod region, which is at a distance of 400 kilometres (250 miles) from Moscow, the ministry stated.

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The Russian Investigative Committee, which investigates serious crimes, said that Prilepin was "travelling with his family" when the blast took place.

Russia's TASS news agency separately quoted an official from emergency services who stated that the writer was wounded in the explosion but was conscious after the incident.

Reacting to the incident, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated on Telegram, "The fact has come true: Washington and NATO fed another international terrorist cell — the Kyiv regime."

She added that it was the "direct responsibility of the US and Britain", but gave no evidence which can support the accusation made by her. "We pray for Zakhar," she stated.

TASS agency reported that Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on the incident in the wake of no information from investigators.

WATCH | Russia's Wagner Group decides to withdraw from Bakhmut due to shortage of ammunition

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Russia started a terrorism probe into the car blast incident.&nbsp;

"The Investigative Committee of Russia has opened a criminal case into a terrorist act in connection with the explosion of Zakhar Prilepin's car," said the committee that investigates major crimes, after the interior ministry said that a man has been detained who "may be involved" in the explosion.

Prilepin is a writer and novelist who has always spoken in support of actions taken by Russia against Ukraine, at a time when the invasion of Moscow has entered the 15th month.&nbsp;

Prilepin is a prolific writer with&nbsp;nationalist views and has garnered more than 300,000 followers on Telegram as well as on his YouTube channel and his website.&nbsp;

The writer spoke in favour of Russian proxy forces which are present in Donbas in eastern Ukraine before the full-scale invasion started in February 2022 and led a military unit&nbsp;about which the writer boasted in his YouTube interview published in 2019 in which he said&nbsp;that his unit "killed people in big numbers".

"These people are dead, they are buried and… there are many of them. Not a single unit among the Donetsk battalions had such results. It was outrageous chaos what we did there... Not a single field commander had such results as I had," he stated.&nbsp;

Regional governor Gleb Nikitin stated, "Law enforcement officers are now investigating the circumstances and causes of the incident. Zakhar is OK."

Two famous pro-war Russian propagandists have lost their lives in bombings since Ukraine has been invaded by Russia in February last year.

Darya Dugina, who was a nationalist ideologue Aleksandr Dugin's daughter, was killed in a car bombing near Moscow in August when military blogger Vladlen Tatarsky died in a bomb attack in St Petersburg cafe last month. 
&nbsp;

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Russia on Saturday blamed Ukraine and the West for the car explosion which involved the pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin. A Russian nationalist and prominent pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin was injured in a car “explosion” on Saturday and one person was killed, informed the interior ministry after multiple drone attacks took place recently as the fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces escalated.

Russia on Saturday blamed Ukraine and the West for the car explosion which involved the pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin. A Russian nationalist and prominent pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin was injured in a car “explosion” on Saturday and one person was killed, informed the interior ministry after multiple drone attacks took place recently as the fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces escalated. "According to initial reports, one person was killed by the explosion, and the writer Zakhar Prilepin, who was in the car, was injured" in the Nizhny Novgorod region, which is at a distance of 400 kilometres (250 miles) from Moscow, the ministry stated. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow accused of attacking Bakhmut with phosphorus bombs The Russian Investigative Committee, which investigates serious crimes, said that Prilepin was "travelling with his family" when the blast took place. Russia's TASS news agency separately quoted an official from emergency services who stated that the writer was wounded in the explosion but was conscious after the incident. Reacting to the incident, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated on Telegram, "The fact has come true: Washington and NATO fed another international terrorist cell — the Kyiv regime." She added that it was the "direct responsibility of the US and Britain", but gave no evidence which can support the accusation made by her. "We pray for Zakhar," she stated. TASS agency reported that Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on the incident in the wake of no information from investigators. WATCH | Russia's Wagner Group decides to withdraw from Bakhmut due to shortage of ammunition Russia started a terrorism probe into the car blast incident. "The Investigative Committee of Russia has opened a criminal case into a terrorist act in connection with the explosion of Zakhar Prilepin's car," said the committee that investigates major crimes, after the interior ministry said that a man has been detained who "may be involved" in the explosion. Prilepin is a writer and novelist who has always spoken in support of actions taken by Russia against Ukraine, at a time when the invasion of Moscow has entered the 15th month. Prilepin is a prolific writer with nationalist views and has garnered more than 300,000 followers on Telegram as well as on his YouTube channel and his website. The writer spoke in favour of Russian proxy forces which are present in Donbas in eastern Ukraine before the full-scale invasion started in February 2022 and led a military unit about which the writer boasted in his YouTube interview published in 2019 in which he said that his unit "killed people in big numbers". "These people are dead, they are buried and… there are many of them. Not a single unit among the Donetsk battalions had such results. It was outrageous chaos what we did there... Not a single field commander had such results as I had," he stated. Regional governor Gleb Nikitin stated, "Law enforcement officers are now investigating the circumstances and causes of the incident. Zakhar is OK." Two famous pro-war Russian propagandists have lost their lives in bombings since Ukraine has been invaded by Russia in February last year. Darya Dugina, who was a nationalist ideologue Aleksandr Dugin's daughter, was killed in a car bombing near Moscow in August when military blogger Vladlen Tatarsky died in a bomb attack in St Petersburg cafe last month. 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 blames Ukraine, West for pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin’s car bombing

Ukraine announced on Saturday that it has downed a Russian hypersonic Kinzhal missile for the first time amid continuous attacks by Moscow that took place in the night between last Wednesday and Thursday in Kyiv.

The downing of Russian hypersonic missiles is being seen as a major setback to Russia's campaign of long-range air strikes.

The Ukraine Air Force announced that they shot down the Kh-47 Kinzhal missile in the skies of Kyiv using a US Patriot air defence system in the skies at around 2:30 am on Thursday (2330 GMT Wednesday).

"I congratulate the Ukrainian people on the historic event," said Ukrainian Air Force Commander General Mykola Oleshchuk on Telegram. "Yes, we shot down the 'unparallelled' Kinzhal'&nbsp;missile," he added.

The US Patriot system is among an array of sophisticated air defence units which was supplied to Ukraine by the West to repel Russia's month-long campaign of air strikes which had targeted the country's power facilities, critical infrastructure, and other sites.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-authorities-shoot-down-drone-near-airbase-in-crimea-588984">Ukraine shoots down its own drone that 'lost control' over Kyiv</a>

<h2>What is a Kinzhal missile?</h2>

The word Kinzhal means "dagger" in Russian. Kinzhal missile is among the six "next generation" weapons which President Vladimir Putin had unveiled in 2018 and had boasted as one of those missiles which cannot be shot down by any air defence system&nbsp;of the world.

Putin had termed Kinzhal missile as "an ideal weapon" that the missile defences find extremely difficult to intercept.

According to the Russian military, the ballistic missile boasts a range of up to 2,000km (1,250 miles) and flies 10 times faster than the speed of sound which makes it difficult to intercept.

The ballistic missile is capable of carrying conventional or nuclear warheads. Kinzhal missile is 8 metres long, has a body diameter of 1 metrer, and its launch weight is approximately 4,300 kg.

The missile has been designed to be launched using MiG-31 fighter jets from an altitude of about 18 km (59,000 ft). During all stages of the flight, this missile manoeuvres to overcome hostile air defence systems.

<h2>How much damage can a Kinzhal missile cause?</h2>

Although Russia has claimed that the missile is among “next generation” systems, however, experts in the West say that these claims are exaggerated.

The Centre for Strategic and International Studies states that “Russia’s designation of the Kinzhal as a ‘hypersonic’ missile is somewhat misleading, as nearly all ballistic missiles reach hypersonic speeds… at some point during their flight.”

Meanwhile, the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence said that the use of the Kinzhal was “likely intended to detract from a lack of progress in Russia’s ground campaign” and “unlikely to materially affect the outcome of Russia’s campaign” in Ukraine.

The major difference between Kinzhal and its purported predecessor is that the missile is launched using an airborne vehicle and not from the ground, which makes it less predictable and more difficult to intercept, and also more survivable compared to the Iskander ground system.

The Kinzhal missile can also be seen as a precision weapon which can easily strike key targets like command centres and with its high speed, the missile can easily penetrate even deeply buried bunkers. However, for achieving such a feat, good information about the target location is required.

Even though Kinzhal is considered as a dangerous weapon, most analysts agree that it is not very different from weapons which have been in use for decades.

Any previous use of Kinzhal for the attack was not previously disclosed by the Air Force, although Kyiv officials immediately stated that there has been an involvement of a ballistic missile.

WATCH | Is Russia's attempt of invading Ukraine fading away? | Russia-Ukraine War

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<h2>Ukraine's efforts to strengthen the air defence system</h2>

Ukraine also appealed to the Western allies to help in reinforcing the country's air defence system as its energy infrastructure has been pounded by Russia from the air over winter.

Ukraine in mid-April received the first Patriots which is considered as one of the most advanced air defence systems of the United States.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the system would "significantly" strengthen the defences of the country against Russian strikes.

Many civilians have lost their lives in the attacks which were escalated by Russia in October ahead of winter. The Russian strikes failed to

The strikes failed to paralyse the power grid but led to major power outages. Russia has constantly denied targeting civilians.

Russia made the air strikes on Thursday a day after it accused Ukraine of making a failed attempt to assassinate President Vladimir Putin through a drone attack over the Kremlin citadel in Moscow and said that it would retaliate.

Since then, Moscow has accused Washington of being involved in the assassination plan but the allegations were denied by both the United States and Ukraine.

The drone and missile attacks over regions of Ukraine have been intensified by Russia in the past week as Kyiv prepares for a counter-offensive against the Russian army who have dug in across occupied land in the south and east.&nbsp;

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Ukraine announced on Saturday that it has downed a Russian hypersonic Kinzhal missile for the first time amid continuous attacks by Moscow that took place in the night between last Wednesday and Thursday in Kyiv.

Ukraine announced on Saturday that it has downed a Russian hypersonic Kinzhal missile for the first time amid continuous attacks by Moscow that took place in the night between last Wednesday and Thursday in Kyiv. The downing of Russian hypersonic missiles is being seen as a major setback to Russia's campaign of long-range air strikes. The Ukraine Air Force announced that they shot down the Kh-47 Kinzhal missile in the skies of Kyiv using a US Patriot air defence system in the skies at around 2:30 am on Thursday (2330 GMT Wednesday). "I congratulate the Ukrainian people on the historic event," said Ukrainian Air Force Commander General Mykola Oleshchuk on Telegram. "Yes, we shot down the 'unparallelled' Kinzhal' missile," he added. The US Patriot system is among an array of sophisticated air defence units which was supplied to Ukraine by the West to repel Russia's month-long campaign of air strikes which had targeted the country's power facilities, critical infrastructure, and other sites. ALSO READ | Ukraine shoots down its own drone that 'lost control' over Kyiv What is a Kinzhal missile? The word Kinzhal means "dagger" in Russian. Kinzhal missile is among the six "next generation" weapons which President Vladimir Putin had unveiled in 2018 and had boasted as one of those missiles which cannot be shot down by any air defence system of the world. Putin had termed Kinzhal missile as "an ideal weapon" that the missile defences find extremely difficult to intercept. According to the Russian military, the ballistic missile boasts a range of up to 2,000km (1,250 miles) and flies 10 times faster than the speed of sound which makes it difficult to intercept. The ballistic missile is capable of carrying conventional or nuclear warheads. Kinzhal missile is 8 metres long, has a body diameter of 1 metrer, and its launch weight is approximately 4,300 kg. The missile has been designed to be launched using MiG-31 fighter jets from an altitude of about 18 km (59,000 ft). During all stages of the flight, this missile manoeuvres to overcome hostile air defence systems. How much damage can a Kinzhal missile cause? Although Russia has claimed that the missile is among “next generation” systems, however, experts in the West say that these claims are exaggerated. The Centre for Strategic and International Studies states that “Russia’s designation of the Kinzhal as a ‘hypersonic’ missile is somewhat misleading, as nearly all ballistic missiles reach hypersonic speeds… at some point during their flight.” Meanwhile, the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence said that the use of the Kinzhal was “likely intended to detract from a lack of progress in Russia’s ground campaign” and “unlikely to materially affect the outcome of Russia’s campaign” in Ukraine. The major difference between Kinzhal and its purported predecessor is that the missile is launched using an airborne vehicle and not from the ground, which makes it less predictable and more difficult to intercept, and also more survivable compared to the Iskander ground system. The Kinzhal missile can also be seen as a precision weapon which can easily strike key targets like command centres and with its high speed, the missile can easily penetrate even deeply buried bunkers. However, for achieving such a feat, good information about the target location is required. Even though Kinzhal is considered as a dangerous weapon, most analysts agree that it is not very different from weapons which have been in use for decades. Any previous use of Kinzhal for the attack was not previously disclosed by the Air Force, although Kyiv officials immediately stated that there has been an involvement of a ballistic missile. WATCH | Is Russia's attempt of invading Ukraine fading away? | Russia-Ukraine War Ukraine's efforts to strengthen the air defence system Ukraine also appealed to the Western allies to help in reinforcing the country's air defence system as its energy infrastructure has been pounded by Russia from the air over winter. Ukraine in mid-April received the first Patriots which is considered as one of the most advanced air defence systems of the United States. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the system would "significantly" strengthen the defences of the country against Russian strikes. Many civilians have lost their lives in the attacks which were escalated by Russia in October ahead of winter. The Russian strikes failed to The strikes failed to paralyse the power grid but led to major power outages. Russia has constantly denied targeting civilians. Russia made the air strikes on Thursday a day after it accused Ukraine of making a failed attempt to assassinate President Vladimir Putin through a drone attack over the Kremlin citadel in Moscow and said that it would retaliate. Since then, Moscow has accused Washington of being involved in the assassination plan but the allegations were denied by both the United States and Ukraine. The drone and missile attacks over regions of Ukraine have been intensified by Russia in the past week as Kyiv prepares for a counter-offensive against the Russian army who have dug in across occupied land in the south and east. (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

Explained | Ukraine downs Russia’s hypersonic Kinzhal missile. Here’s all you need to know

Tensions continue to rise between Ukraine and Russia as Moscow has ordered the evacuation of families with children and the elderly from areas in southern Ukraine that are held by Russia. The evacuation is due to the increase in shelling from the Ukrainian side, which has intensified in recent days.

Yevgeny Balitsky, the Russian-installed head of the Zaporizhzhia region, announced the evacuation on social media. He stated that the decision was made to prioritize the safety of vulnerable groups such as children, parents, elderly people, disabled people, and hospital patients.

Watch:&nbsp;Did Ukraine try to assassinate Russian President Putin?

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"There will be a temporary evacuation from 18 places," Balitsky wrote, "including the town of Enerhodar, where the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is located." The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is Europe's largest and has been held by Russia since the beginning of the conflict. It is now near the front line, and its proximity to the fighting has caused international concern.

<h2>Major dam damaged in southern Ukraine&nbsp;</h2>

In addition to the shelling, a Russian official has warned that record-high water levels could overwhelm a major dam in southern Ukraine and damage parts of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station. Renat Karchaa, an adviser to the general director of nuclear energy firm Rosenergoatom, said that if the Nova Kakhovka dam did rupture, the power cable line for the Zaporizhzhia plant's pumping stations would be flooded.&nbsp;This would create functional problems for the operation of the plant and risks for nuclear safety.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doomed-to-perish-russias-wagner-announces-withdrawal-from-bakhmut-589161">Also Read |&nbsp;'Doomed to perish': Russia's Wagner announces withdrawal from Bakhmut, cites lack of ammo</a>

"Both sides have accused each other of planning to breach the dam using explosives, which would flood much of the area downstream and would likely cause major destruction around Kherson," Karchaa said. 
 
The situation at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant has been a cause for concern for several months.

In late March, Ukrainian officials had expressed concern that the plant could face a shortage of water to cool its reactors by late summer because Russian forces had let water out of a reservoir that supplied the plant.

Russian troops took over the plant as they invaded parts of Ukraine last year, and it has been at the centre of a nuclear security crisis due to near-constant shelling in its vicinity, which Kyiv and Moscow blame on each other.

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Tensions continue to rise between Ukraine and Russia as Moscow has ordered the evacuation of families with children and the elderly from areas in southern Ukraine that are held by Russia.

Tensions continue to rise between Ukraine and Russia as Moscow has ordered the evacuation of families with children and the elderly from areas in southern Ukraine that are held by Russia. The evacuation is due to the increase in shelling from the Ukrainian side, which has intensified in recent days. Yevgeny Balitsky, the Russian-installed head of the Zaporizhzhia region, announced the evacuation on social media. He stated that the decision was made to prioritize the safety of vulnerable groups such as children, parents, elderly people, disabled people, and hospital patients. Watch: Did Ukraine try to assassinate Russian President Putin? × "There will be a temporary evacuation from 18 places," Balitsky wrote, "including the town of Enerhodar, where the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is located." The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is Europe's largest and has been held by Russia since the beginning of the conflict. It is now near the front line, and its proximity to the fighting has caused international concern. Major dam damaged in southern Ukraine In addition to the shelling, a Russian official has warned that record-high water levels could overwhelm a major dam in southern Ukraine and damage parts of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station. Renat Karchaa, an adviser to the general director of nuclear energy firm Rosenergoatom, said that if the Nova Kakhovka dam did rupture, the power cable line for the Zaporizhzhia plant's pumping stations would be flooded. This would create functional problems for the operation of the plant and risks for nuclear safety. Also Read | 'Doomed to perish': Russia's Wagner announces withdrawal from Bakhmut, cites lack of ammo "Both sides have accused each other of planning to breach the dam using explosives, which would flood much of the area downstream and would likely cause major destruction around Kherson," Karchaa said. The situation at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant has been a cause for concern for several months. In late March, Ukrainian officials had expressed concern that the plant could face a shortage of water to cool its reactors by late summer because Russian forces had let water out of a reservoir that supplied the plant. Russian troops took over the plant as they invaded parts of Ukraine last year, and it has been at the centre of a nuclear security crisis due to near-constant shelling in its vicinity, which Kyiv and Moscow blame on each other. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Families evacuated from Russia-held regions in Ukraine amid fears of nuclear disaster at Zaporizhzhia plant

Russia's Wagner Group, in a major shift of tactical goalpost during ongoing Russia-Ukraine war,&nbsp;announced that it will withdraw from the Bakhmut region where the battle to overrun Ukrainian resistance is continuing with sharp intensity for nearly two months.&nbsp;

Wagner founder Yevgeny Prigozhin said in a statement on Friday that the lack of ammunition was the reason for the withdrawal.

"I am pulling Wagner units out of Bakhmut because in the absence of ammunition they are doomed to perish senselessly," Prigozhin said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-group-will-soon-cease-to-exist-founder-tells-war-blogger-587166">Wagner group will soon cease to exist: Founder tells war blogger</a>

Wagner's positions in Bakhmut will be transferred to Russia's regular forces, Prigozhin said.&nbsp;

Earlier on Friday, Prigozhin published a video of himself standing among, what were referred to as, bloodied 'Wagner lads'. He blamed Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu for the loss of lives Wagner Group faced in Bakhmut over past many weeks of fighting with the Ukrainian forces.&nbsp;

"These are Wagner lads who died today. The blood is still fresh," Prigozhin said. "They came here as volunteers and they are dying so you can get fat in your offices."

The battle for strategically important Bakhmut has become a tactical flashpoint between Russia and Ukraine. The battle for Bakhmut is among the longest and bloodiest of the war, with severe losses on both the Russian and Ukrainian sides.

Wagner in the recent past called upon Moscow to boost ammunition supply-lines towards it.

<h2>Kremlin's reaction on Wagner's Bakhmut withdrawal</h2>

Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the Kremlin has seen Yevgeny Prigozhin's statement that announced group's removal from Bakhmut region.

Peskov said he had seen reports in the media, but "cannot comment on this, because it concerns the special military operation".&nbsp;

Speaking of contacts between Russia and United States after purported drone attacks on the Kremlin, Peskov said "any contacts are possible" for reaching Russia's own goals, for providing Russia's interests.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Russia still fighting for control in Bakhmut

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"Of course, contacts will continue, if necessary," Peskov added.

Russia claimed it foiled an attack by Ukrainian drones on the Kremlin early Wednesday, calling it an unsuccessful assassination attempt against President Vladimir Putin and promising retaliation for what it termed a “terrorist” act.

The Kremlin alleges that the United States&nbsp;was behind the purported drone attacks.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky denied that Ukraine was behind the purported attacks, saying: “We don't attack Putin or Moscow.”

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; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia's Wagner Group, in a major shift of tactical goalpost during ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, announced that it will withdraw from the Bakhmut region where the battle to overrun Ukrainian resistance is continuing with sharp intensity for nearly two months.

Russia's Wagner Group, in a major shift of tactical goalpost during ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, announced that it will withdraw from the Bakhmut region where the battle to overrun Ukrainian resistance is continuing with sharp intensity for nearly two months. Wagner founder Yevgeny Prigozhin said in a statement on Friday that the lack of ammunition was the reason for the withdrawal. "I am pulling Wagner units out of Bakhmut because in the absence of ammunition they are doomed to perish senselessly," Prigozhin said. ALSO READ | Wagner group will soon cease to exist: Founder tells war blogger Wagner's positions in Bakhmut will be transferred to Russia's regular forces, Prigozhin said. Earlier on Friday, Prigozhin published a video of himself standing among, what were referred to as, bloodied 'Wagner lads'. He blamed Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu for the loss of lives Wagner Group faced in Bakhmut over past many weeks of fighting with the Ukrainian forces. "These are Wagner lads who died today. The blood is still fresh," Prigozhin said. "They came here as volunteers and they are dying so you can get fat in your offices." The battle for strategically important Bakhmut has become a tactical flashpoint between Russia and Ukraine. The battle for Bakhmut is among the longest and bloodiest of the war, with severe losses on both the Russian and Ukrainian sides. Wagner in the recent past called upon Moscow to boost ammunition supply-lines towards it. Kremlin's reaction on Wagner's Bakhmut withdrawal Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the Kremlin has seen Yevgeny Prigozhin's statement that announced group's removal from Bakhmut region. Peskov said he had seen reports in the media, but "cannot comment on this, because it concerns the special military operation". Speaking of contacts between Russia and United States after purported drone attacks on the Kremlin, Peskov said "any contacts are possible" for reaching Russia's own goals, for providing Russia's interests. ALSO WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia still fighting for control in Bakhmut × "Of course, contacts will continue, if necessary," Peskov added. Russia claimed it foiled an attack by Ukrainian drones on the Kremlin early Wednesday, calling it an unsuccessful assassination attempt against President Vladimir Putin and promising retaliation for what it termed a “terrorist” act. The Kremlin alleges that the United States was behind the purported drone attacks. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky denied that Ukraine was behind the purported attacks, saying: “We don't attack Putin or Moscow.” 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.

‘Doomed to perish’: Russia’s Wagner announces withdrawal from Bakhmut, cites lack of ammo

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (May 3) that his country did not attack Russian President Vladimir Putin after Moscow claimed that two drones were shot down over the Kremlin and termed it an assassination attempt.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (May 3) that his country did not attack Russian President Vladimir Putin after Moscow claimed that two drones were shot down over the Kremlin and termed it an assassination attempt. "We didn't attack Putin... We fight on our territory, we are defending our villages and cities," Zelensky told reporters at a press conference with Nordic leaders in Finland's capital city Helsinki. "We fight on our territory. We are defending our villages and cities. We don't have, you know, enough weapons for this, that's why we don't use it anywhere. For us that is the deficit, we can't spend it and we didn't attack Putin. We leave it to the tribunal," Zelensky added. ALSO READ | Russia arrests Ukraine sabotage group's members for planning 'assassinations' Zelensky arrived in Finland earlier in the day and held talks with Finnish President Sauli Niinisto. He thanked Niinisto for the military support to Ukraine so far and said the two have agreed to speed up further deliveries. The Ukrainian president also participated in a summit in Helsinki which saw a gathering of the leaders of the five Nordic nations. Zelensky reaffirmed that Ukraine aims to be a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), while the Nordic NATO members said they would "continue to support Ukraine on its path towards future membership." Zelensky's visit to Finland was announced only after his arrival amid tight security in the Finnish capital. Recently, Finland joined NATO in response to Russia's offensive in Ukraine. Hitting back at the membership of the intergovernmental military alliance, Russia said Finland's accession to NATO was a dangerous historic mistake that would weaken security in the wider region and force Moscow to take counter-measures. Medvedev calls for 'elimination' of Zelensky As Russia accused Ukraine of a drone attack on the Kremlin, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev called for the physical elimination of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his clique in Kyiv. "After today's terrorist attack, there are no options left aside from the physical elimination of Zelensky and his cabal," Medvedev said. (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.

We didn't attack Putin: Ukraine's Zelensky as Nordic nations pledge continued support

Oil depots in both Ukraine and Russia caught fire on Wednesday as the drone war between the two countries targeting infrastructure escalated ahead of the planned spring counter-offensive of Kyiv.&nbsp;

Thousands of firefighters tried to control the huge fire at an oil terminal on the Russian side for which Moscow blamed a Ukrainian drone attack.

Meanwhile, a fuel depot in the central city of Kropyvnytskyi, Ukraine also caught fire after a suspected Russian drone strike.

Across Ukraine, a drone hit an administrative building in the southern Dnipropetrovsk region igniting a fire. Ukraine claimed to have shot down around 21 of 26 Iranian-made drones.

Long-range strikes are being launched by the two sides since last week in anticipation of the upcoming counteroffensive of Ukraine, which is expected to mark the most decisive phases of the ongoing war.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-military-suffered-100000-casualties-in-last-five-months-white-house-588028">Russia's military suffered 100,000 casualties in last five months: White House</a>

A wave of missiles was fired by Russia last Friday, which included one that killed 23 civilians sleeping in an apartment building in Uman, a city which lies hundreds of miles from the front.

A suspected Ukrainian drone strike on Saturday put&nbsp;a Russian oil terminal on fire in occupied Crimea. Dozens of homes as well as one industrial enterprise were&nbsp;hit by Russia in the Dnipropetrovsk region on Monday which Kyiv did not identify. Meanwhile, freight trains were derailed in blasts that took place on the last two days in a row in Russia’s Bryansk region near border with Ukraine.&nbsp;

Moscow claims military targets have been struck by its long-range attacks though no evidence has been produced by it to support this.

No comments were made by Kyiv on incidents in occupied Crimea or Russia but it said that destroying infrastructure which supports the Russian military is part of Ukraine's preparation for its planned ground assault.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war : Kyiv's spring offensive begins with assassination bid on Putin

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Black smoke and flames billowed over big tanks which had red warnings of “Flammable” in videos shared by Russian social media.&nbsp;

“The fire has been classified as the highest rank of difficulty,” said Veniamin Kondratyev, governor of the Krasnodar region on the Telegram messaging app, further stating that there were no casualties.

Citing emergency services, Russia’s TASS news agency said that the facility caught fire due to the drone strike. Moscow also blamed another drone for a huge fire caused in Crimea, in Sevastopol, which is the naval base of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet.

(With inputs from agencies)

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<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

Oil depots in both Ukraine and Russia caught fire on Wednesday as the drone war between the two countries targeting infrastructure escalated ahead of the planned spring counter-offensive of Kyiv.

Oil depots in both Ukraine and Russia caught fire on Wednesday as the drone war between the two countries targeting infrastructure escalated ahead of the planned spring counter-offensive of Kyiv. Thousands of firefighters tried to control the huge fire at an oil terminal on the Russian side for which Moscow blamed a Ukrainian drone attack. Meanwhile, a fuel depot in the central city of Kropyvnytskyi, Ukraine also caught fire after a suspected Russian drone strike. Across Ukraine, a drone hit an administrative building in the southern Dnipropetrovsk region igniting a fire. Ukraine claimed to have shot down around 21 of 26 Iranian-made drones. Long-range strikes are being launched by the two sides since last week in anticipation of the upcoming counteroffensive of Ukraine, which is expected to mark the most decisive phases of the ongoing war. ALSO READ | Russia's military suffered 100,000 casualties in last five months: White House A wave of missiles was fired by Russia last Friday, which included one that killed 23 civilians sleeping in an apartment building in Uman, a city which lies hundreds of miles from the front. A suspected Ukrainian drone strike on Saturday put a Russian oil terminal on fire in occupied Crimea. Dozens of homes as well as one industrial enterprise were hit by Russia in the Dnipropetrovsk region on Monday which Kyiv did not identify. Meanwhile, freight trains were derailed in blasts that took place on the last two days in a row in Russia’s Bryansk region near border with Ukraine. Moscow claims military targets have been struck by its long-range attacks though no evidence has been produced by it to support this. No comments were made by Kyiv on incidents in occupied Crimea or Russia but it said that destroying infrastructure which supports the Russian military is part of Ukraine's preparation for its planned ground assault. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war : Kyiv's spring offensive begins with assassination bid on Putin Black smoke and flames billowed over big tanks which had red warnings of “Flammable” in videos shared by Russian social media. “The fire has been classified as the highest rank of difficulty,” said Veniamin Kondratyev, governor of the Krasnodar region on the Telegram messaging app, further stating that there were no casualties. Citing emergency services, Russia’s TASS news agency said that the facility caught fire due to the drone strike. Moscow also blamed another drone for a huge fire caused in Crimea, in Sevastopol, which is the naval base of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet. (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

Oil depots in Russia and Ukraine on fire, warring nations blame drone attacks

In an audio message published on social media, Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of Russia’s Wagner Group, on Wednesday (May 3), said he believes&nbsp;that Ukraine has “already begun” its counter-offensive. This comes after he claimed that his forces have seen heightened activity by Ukrainian troops along the front lines.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the death toll from Russian strikes on the country’s southern Kherson region has risen to 21 after authorities in Kyiv said Russian strikes hit both the city and nearby villages.&nbsp;

The Pentagon, on Wednesday, announced a $300 million military aid package to Ukraine as it prepares for the spring counter-offensive.&nbsp;

Wagner chief about Ukraine’s spring offensive

In the clip posted on social media, Prigozhin also said that the “active phase” of Ukraine's counteroffensive would begin in the coming days. “I believe the advance of the Ukrainian army has already begun...We are seeing the greatest possible activity both on the perimeter and within the front lines,” said the Wagner chief, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

He added, “I therefore believe that it has all already started. And I believe it will all enter an active phase in the very near future. It could be a matter of days.” This comes as the Ukrainian forces have long promised to launch a counteroffensive and start taking back territory in the east which Russia has occupied after it began its invasion in February 2022.&nbsp;

In a subsequent statement, Prigozhin said his forces have advanced some 700 feet in the eastern Ukrainian town of Bakhmut which has witnessed some of the most intense battles since the conflict began, reported Reuters. 
 
He also reiterated his complaint about the Russian government ignoring his pleas to increase supplies of shells and said, “We only have resources for a few days. They (ministry of defence)&nbsp;ignore all requests from Wagner.”&nbsp;

Zelensky about shelling in Kherson&nbsp;

Zelensky took to Telegram and said, “As of now, 21 people have been killed! 48 wounded!” Officials in the region also imposed a curfew in the main city of Kherson starting Friday. The Ukrainian president also said the strikes hit “a railway station and a crossing, a house, a hardware store, a grocery supermarket and a gas station.”&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
He also published images of bodies and wounded people on the floor of a supermarket and said “The world needs to see and know this.” According to Kherson prosecutors, who have since called these attacks “massive,” 12 people were killed in the city and others in nearby villages.&nbsp;

“On the morning of May 3, Russian troops began massive shelling of the city of Kherson and the region's settlements,” said the prosecutors, as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;

United States announces more aid for Ukraine

The United States, on Wednesday, announced that it is sending a new $300 million military aid package to Ukraine which will also include “additional ammunition” for the US-provided HIMARS.&nbsp;

Among other weapons, are “howitzers, artillery and mortar rounds, and anti-armour capabilities,” which the US says, “Ukraine is using to push back against Russia’s unprovoked war of aggression.” Notably, the US has now committed a little over $35 billion in military to Ukraine.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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.

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In an audio message published on social media, Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of Russia’s Wagner Group, on Wednesday (May 3), said he believes that Ukraine has “already begun” its counter-offensive.

In an audio message published on social media, Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of Russia’s Wagner Group, on Wednesday (May 3), said he believes that Ukraine has “already begun” its counter-offensive. This comes after he claimed that his forces have seen heightened activity by Ukrainian troops along the front lines. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the death toll from Russian strikes on the country’s southern Kherson region has risen to 21 after authorities in Kyiv said Russian strikes hit both the city and nearby villages. The Pentagon, on Wednesday, announced a $300 million military aid package to Ukraine as it prepares for the spring counter-offensive. Wagner chief about Ukraine’s spring offensive In the clip posted on social media, Prigozhin also said that the “active phase” of Ukraine's counteroffensive would begin in the coming days. “I believe the advance of the Ukrainian army has already begun...We are seeing the greatest possible activity both on the perimeter and within the front lines,” said the Wagner chief, as quoted by Reuters. He added, “I therefore believe that it has all already started. And I believe it will all enter an active phase in the very near future. It could be a matter of days.” This comes as the Ukrainian forces have long promised to launch a counteroffensive and start taking back territory in the east which Russia has occupied after it began its invasion in February 2022. In a subsequent statement, Prigozhin said his forces have advanced some 700 feet in the eastern Ukrainian town of Bakhmut which has witnessed some of the most intense battles since the conflict began, reported Reuters. He also reiterated his complaint about the Russian government ignoring his pleas to increase supplies of shells and said, “We only have resources for a few days. They (ministry of defence) ignore all requests from Wagner.” Zelensky about shelling in Kherson Zelensky took to Telegram and said, “As of now, 21 people have been killed! 48 wounded!” Officials in the region also imposed a curfew in the main city of Kherson starting Friday. The Ukrainian president also said the strikes hit “a railway station and a crossing, a house, a hardware store, a grocery supermarket and a gas station.” He also published images of bodies and wounded people on the floor of a supermarket and said “The world needs to see and know this.” According to Kherson prosecutors, who have since called these attacks “massive,” 12 people were killed in the city and others in nearby villages. “On the morning of May 3, Russian troops began massive shelling of the city of Kherson and the region's settlements,” said the prosecutors, as quoted by AFP. United States announces more aid for Ukraine The United States, on Wednesday, announced that it is sending a new $300 million military aid package to Ukraine which will also include “additional ammunition” for the US-provided HIMARS. Among other weapons, are “howitzers, artillery and mortar rounds, and anti-armour capabilities,” which the US says, “Ukraine is using to push back against Russia’s unprovoked war of aggression.” Notably, the US has now committed a little over $35 billion in military to Ukraine. (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.

Wagner leader says Ukraine counter-offensive has begun; Kherson shelling toll rises to 21

The Kremlin has said that it was attacked by Ukrainian drones overnight which it deems was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life, the Russian presidential administration has confirmed.

The Kremlin has described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and "assassination attempt on the president of Russia." Moscow has vowed&nbsp;"retaliatory measures" in relation to the overnight escalation of the conflict.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war : Kyiv's spring offensive begins with assassination bid on Putin

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"Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the Kremlin press service said in a statement.

"We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the president of the Russian Federation, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 parade," the Kremlin said, adding that Putin was not in the building at the time of the alleged attack.

“Russia reserves the right to respond to an attempted strike on the Kremlin where and when it sees fit,” the statement said

Ukrainian officials did not immediately comment on the claim.

Moscow residents reported hearing two explosions behind Kremlin walls shortly after 2 am&nbsp;local time, after which the lights went out.

Footage shared by residents on social media shows&nbsp;smoke filling the sky above the Kremlin.

Authorities have said it was a brazen attack by Ukraine using two drones, both of which they say have been destroyed.

No injuries were reported, according to the TASS news agency.

Russia is currently implementing additional safety measures ahead of its annual May 9 World War II victory commemorations, when the erstwhile Soviet Union states celebrate their victory over Nazi Germany.

Officials had cited security concerns related to the war for limiting the public events.

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)

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The Kremlin has said that it was attacked by Ukrainian drones overnight which it deems was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life, the Russian presidential administration has confirmed.

The Kremlin has said that it was attacked by Ukrainian drones overnight which it deems was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life, the Russian presidential administration has confirmed. The Kremlin has described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and "assassination attempt on the president of Russia." Moscow has vowed "retaliatory measures" in relation to the overnight escalation of the conflict. ALSO WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war : Kyiv's spring offensive begins with assassination bid on Putin × "Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the Kremlin press service said in a statement. "We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the president of the Russian Federation, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 parade," the Kremlin said, adding that Putin was not in the building at the time of the alleged attack. “Russia reserves the right to respond to an attempted strike on the Kremlin where and when it sees fit,” the statement said Ukrainian officials did not immediately comment on the claim. Moscow residents reported hearing two explosions behind Kremlin walls shortly after 2 am local time, after which the lights went out. Footage shared by residents on social media shows smoke filling the sky above the Kremlin. Authorities have said it was a brazen attack by Ukraine using two drones, both of which they say have been destroyed. No injuries were reported, according to the TASS news agency. Russia is currently implementing additional safety measures ahead of its annual May 9 World War II victory commemorations, when the erstwhile Soviet Union states celebrate their victory over Nazi Germany. Officials had cited security concerns related to the war for limiting the public events. 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 survives assassination attempt, Ukrainian drones attacked Kremlin, claims Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview published on Tuesday (May 2) that he wasn't informed about the leaks of secret US documents. In an interview with the Washington Post, Zelensky said: "I did not receive information from the White House or the Pentagon beforehand."&nbsp;

He added, "It is unprofitable for us. It is not beneficial to the reputation of the White House, and I believe it is not beneficial to the reputation of the United States."&nbsp;

In the aftermath of the leak of the documents, which remained in the headlines last month, US officials said they were investigating the matter. The Pentagon had said that the leak presents a "very serious" risk to national security.&nbsp;

When the documents appeared online, they become an embarrassment and also a headache for the US authorities as highly sensitive military and defence documents were shared and circulated on multiple social media platforms. The leak released details of secret information linked to the Ukraine war, Israel's spy agency Mossad, South Korea, and more.&nbsp;

The set of leaked documents, labelled as "Secret" and "Top Secret", included materials related to Ukraine and its military, telling a partial tale of the ongoing war. The Ukrainian defence minister, Oleksii Reznikov, said on April 12 that the Pentagon document leaks contained a mixture of true and false information about his country's military and downplayed its negative impact.&nbsp;

One document suggested that the Ukrainian air defences are in deep crisis. The air defence systems have emerged as one of Ukraine's key strengths to counter Russian missile and drone strikes. Ukraine even urged the allies to supply fighter jets to help in its fight against Russian aggression.&nbsp;

Documents show that the munitions for Soviet-era air defence systems deployed by Ukraine will soon run out and a document dated February indicates that the S300 missile defence system is expected to run out of munitions by May this year and the SA-11 Gadfly system at the end of March.&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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After Zelensky's comments, a spokesperson for the White House National Security Council said: "We are in constant communication with our Ukrainian counterparts about a range of issues, including over the unauthorized disclosures, but we aren’t going to get into the details of those private discussions."&nbsp;

Pentagon Press Secretary Patrick Ryder said that US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had spoken to a number of allies, including Reznikov.&nbsp;Ryder told CNN: "Austin has conducted a large number of phone calls, conducted a large amount of outreach to our allies and partners around the world to discuss the matter with them, to highlight how seriously we are taking this issue, to include several conversations with his Ukrainian counterpart, minister Reznikov."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Volodymyr Zelensky

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview published on Tuesday (May 2) that he wasn't informed about the leaks of secret US documents. In an interview with the Washington Post, Zelensky said: "I did not receive information from the White House or the Pentagon beforehand.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview published on Tuesday (May 2) that he wasn't informed about the leaks of secret US documents. In an interview with the Washington Post, Zelensky said: "I did not receive information from the White House or the Pentagon beforehand." He added, "It is unprofitable for us. It is not beneficial to the reputation of the White House, and I believe it is not beneficial to the reputation of the United States." In the aftermath of the leak of the documents, which remained in the headlines last month, US officials said they were investigating the matter. The Pentagon had said that the leak presents a "very serious" risk to national security. When the documents appeared online, they become an embarrassment and also a headache for the US authorities as highly sensitive military and defence documents were shared and circulated on multiple social media platforms. The leak released details of secret information linked to the Ukraine war, Israel's spy agency Mossad, South Korea, and more. The set of leaked documents, labelled as "Secret" and "Top Secret", included materials related to Ukraine and its military, telling a partial tale of the ongoing war. The Ukrainian defence minister, Oleksii Reznikov, said on April 12 that the Pentagon document leaks contained a mixture of true and false information about his country's military and downplayed its negative impact. One document suggested that the Ukrainian air defences are in deep crisis. The air defence systems have emerged as one of Ukraine's key strengths to counter Russian missile and drone strikes. Ukraine even urged the allies to supply fighter jets to help in its fight against Russian aggression. Documents show that the munitions for Soviet-era air defence systems deployed by Ukraine will soon run out and a document dated February indicates that the S300 missile defence system is expected to run out of munitions by May this year and the SA-11 Gadfly system at the end of March. Watch this report: × After Zelensky's comments, a spokesperson for the White House National Security Council said: "We are in constant communication with our Ukrainian counterparts about a range of issues, including over the unauthorized disclosures, but we aren’t going to get into the details of those private discussions." Pentagon Press Secretary Patrick Ryder said that US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had spoken to a number of allies, including Reznikov. Ryder told CNN: "Austin has conducted a large number of phone calls, conducted a large amount of outreach to our allies and partners around the world to discuss the matter with them, to highlight how seriously we are taking this issue, to include several conversations with his Ukrainian counterpart, minister Reznikov." (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. Volodymyr Zelensky

Volodymyr Zelensky says White House did not warn him about secret documents’ leak

A freight train derailment occurred in the western Russian region bordering Ukraine, on Tuesday (May 2), for the second day in a row due to an “explosive device” on the tracks, said the governor of Russia’s Bryansk region.&nbsp;

Media reports citing local officials have said that the locomotive and some cars of the train were derailed after a similar incident occurred, on Monday, near Unecha where the locomotive and seven freight wagons were derailed.&nbsp;

The incident, on Tuesday, occurred in the western Bryansk region, which borders both Ukraine and Belarus where Russian officials have reported multiple attacks by pro-Ukrainian sabotage groups since Moscow invaded Kyiv over a year ago.&nbsp;

In a statement, the Bryansk region governor Alexander Bogomaz said, “An unidentified explosive device went off near the Snezhestkaya railway station,” as quoted by the news agency AFP. He added, “A locomotive and several wagons of the train derailed,” adding that there were no casualties. He also did not indicate who was responsible for the incident.&nbsp;

Russian Railways also released a statement without mentioning an explosive device, and said that the train had derailed due to “the intervention of unauthorised persons in the work of rail transport”.&nbsp;

The state operator also confirmed that the incident took place at 7:47 pm (local time) between Snezhetskaya, just to the southeast of Bryansk, and the nearby village of Belye Berega where the rail traffic has&nbsp;been suspended. The railway authorities also said the train’s front locomotive and “around 20 wagons” were derailed.&nbsp; 
 
Meanwhile, the Russian news agency TASS&nbsp;citing officials reported&nbsp;that&nbsp;firefighters were working at the scene and two recovery trains had been dispatched to the area. The local prosecutors have also launched an investigation into the incident, said news agency.&nbsp;

What happened on Monday?

This comes a day after Bogomaz took to Telegram and wrote, “An unidentified explosive device went off, as a result of which a locomotive of a freight train derailed,” adding that there were “no casualties”. Images and videos from the site shared on social media platforms showed plumes of dark grey smoke rising into the air and several tank carriages also seen lying on their side.&nbsp;

The incident occurred at 10:17 am (Moscow time) between regional hub Bryansk and the town of Unecha and the train was reportedly carrying oil products and timber. Notably, the governor of the northern Leningrad region, Alexander Drozdenko, on Monday had said that local power lines were blown up by an “explosive device.”

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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A freight train derailment occurred in the western Russian region bordering Ukraine, on Tuesday (May 2), for the second day in a row due to an “explosive device” on the tracks, said the governor of Russia’s Bryansk region.

A freight train derailment occurred in the western Russian region bordering Ukraine, on Tuesday (May 2), for the second day in a row due to an “explosive device” on the tracks, said the governor of Russia’s Bryansk region. Media reports citing local officials have said that the locomotive and some cars of the train were derailed after a similar incident occurred, on Monday, near Unecha where the locomotive and seven freight wagons were derailed. The incident, on Tuesday, occurred in the western Bryansk region, which borders both Ukraine and Belarus where Russian officials have reported multiple attacks by pro-Ukrainian sabotage groups since Moscow invaded Kyiv over a year ago. In a statement, the Bryansk region governor Alexander Bogomaz said, “An unidentified explosive device went off near the Snezhestkaya railway station,” as quoted by the news agency AFP. He added, “A locomotive and several wagons of the train derailed,” adding that there were no casualties. He also did not indicate who was responsible for the incident. Russian Railways also released a statement without mentioning an explosive device, and said that the train had derailed due to “the intervention of unauthorised persons in the work of rail transport”. The state operator also confirmed that the incident took place at 7:47 pm (local time) between Snezhetskaya, just to the southeast of Bryansk, and the nearby village of Belye Berega where the rail traffic has been suspended. The railway authorities also said the train’s front locomotive and “around 20 wagons” were derailed. Meanwhile, the Russian news agency TASS citing officials reported that firefighters were working at the scene and two recovery trains had been dispatched to the area. The local prosecutors have also launched an investigation into the incident, said news agency. What happened on Monday? This comes a day after Bogomaz took to Telegram and wrote, “An unidentified explosive device went off, as a result of which a locomotive of a freight train derailed,” adding that there were “no casualties”. Images and videos from the site shared on social media platforms showed plumes of dark grey smoke rising into the air and several tank carriages also seen lying on their side. The incident occurred at 10:17 am (Moscow time) between regional hub Bryansk and the town of Unecha and the train was reportedly carrying oil products and timber. Notably, the governor of the northern Leningrad region, Alexander Drozdenko, on Monday had said that local power lines were blown up by an “explosive device.” (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.

‘Explosive device’ causes another freight train derailment in Russian region near Ukraine

Russia said on Wednesday that two Ukrainian drones were destroyed as they hovered over President Vladimir Putin's Kremlin residence. Moscow has threatened Kyiv with "retaliatory actions."

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian side has denied Russian claims related to drone attack on the Kremlin

The footage of the moment when the drones purportedly hovered over the Kremlin in Moscow has gone viral. It shows an aerial projectile moving towards the Kremlin as it is destroyed by what appears to be a reactionary projectile from an air defence system.

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"Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the Kremlin press service said in a statement while referring to the purported overnight drone attack on the Russian capital.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the president of the Russian Federation, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 parade," the Kremlin said, adding that Putin was not in the building at the time of the alleged attack.

“Russia reserves the right to respond to an attempted strike on the Kremlin where and when it sees fit,” the statement said.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian&nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky's Press Secretary Nikiforov denied the Russia accusation related to the attack on the Kremlin.

“We have no information about the so-called night attacks on the Kremlin. But, as President Zelensky has repeatedly stated, Ukraine directs all available forces and means to liberate its own territories, and not to attack others," said Nikiforov.

As a matter of precaution, Moscow's mayor announced that unauthorised drone flights will be banned over the Russian capital.

Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, in a statement, said that all drone flights will remain prohibited unless the "government authorities" provide a special permit.

The Russian president will now work from his bunker in his residence in Novo-Ogarevo following Tuesday's overnight attack.&nbsp;

He further stated that the ban was meant to prevent unauthorised drone flights which could "obstruct the work of law enforcement".

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Russia said on Wednesday that two Ukrainian drones were destroyed as they hovered over President Vladimir Putin's Kremlin residence. Moscow has threatened Kyiv with "retaliatory actions.

Russia said on Wednesday that two Ukrainian drones were destroyed as they hovered over President Vladimir Putin's Kremlin residence. Moscow has threatened Kyiv with "retaliatory actions." Meanwhile, the Ukrainian side has denied Russian claims related to drone attack on the Kremlin The footage of the moment when the drones purportedly hovered over the Kremlin in Moscow has gone viral. It shows an aerial projectile moving towards the Kremlin as it is destroyed by what appears to be a reactionary projectile from an air defence system. × "Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the Kremlin press service said in a statement while referring to the purported overnight drone attack on the Russian capital. "We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the president of the Russian Federation, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 parade," the Kremlin said, adding that Putin was not in the building at the time of the alleged attack. “Russia reserves the right to respond to an attempted strike on the Kremlin where and when it sees fit,” the statement said. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's Press Secretary Nikiforov denied the Russia accusation related to the attack on the Kremlin. “We have no information about the so-called night attacks on the Kremlin. But, as President Zelensky has repeatedly stated, Ukraine directs all available forces and means to liberate its own territories, and not to attack others," said Nikiforov. As a matter of precaution, Moscow's mayor announced that unauthorised drone flights will be banned over the Russian capital. Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, in a statement, said that all drone flights will remain prohibited unless the "government authorities" provide a special permit. The Russian president will now work from his bunker in his residence in Novo-Ogarevo following Tuesday's overnight attack. He further stated that the ban was meant to prevent unauthorised drone flights which could "obstruct the work of law enforcement". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Watch | Moment when alleged Ukrainian drone was shot down over Putin's Kremlin residence

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a surprise visit to Finland on Wednesday (May 3). The Finnish presidency announced that he was there to participate in a summit gathering of the leaders of the five Nordic nations. &nbsp;

Zelensky will meet Finnish President Sauli Niinisto after attending the summit. The visit is significant amid the ongoing war as Finland recently joined The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a bloc Ukraine wants to join to counter Russia with the security of the military alliance.&nbsp;

Zelensky is there to discuss "Ukraine's defence struggle", and will also hold bilateral talks with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Norway's Jonas Gahr Store, Denmark's Mette Frederiksen and Iceland's Katrin Jakobsdottir.&nbsp;

Finland is now one of the nations&nbsp;Zelensky visited since Russia's invasion of Ukraine apart from the United States, Belgium, Poland, France, and the United Kingdom.&nbsp;

German newspaper Tagesspiegel reported on Wednesday that Zelensky is to travel to Berlin on May 13. The report mentioned that the Ukrainian leader will be received by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz with military honours on May 14 before flying to Aachen later in the day to receive the 2023 Charlemagne Prize.&nbsp;

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🇫🇮President <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Zelensky?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Zelensky</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Finland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Finland</a> 
 
During the visit, Zelensky will take part in a meeting of the prime ministers of the Nordic countries with President Sauli <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Niinist%C3%B6?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Niinistö</a>. The meeting will be devoted to support for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> and other topical security issues. <a href="https://t.co/M5pniRDksW">pic.twitter.com/M5pniRDksW</a>
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⚡⚡⚡ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Zelensky?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Zelensky</a> met with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Finnish?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Finnish</a> President <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Niinisto?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Niinisto</a>. 
 
🇺🇦🤝🇫🇮<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UkraineWillWin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UkraineWillWin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UkraineWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UkraineWar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine%EF%B8%8F?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine️</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ukrainecounteroffensive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ukrainecounteroffensive</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukrainian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukrainian</a> <a href="https://t.co/SU1yh0jZfB">pic.twitter.com/SU1yh0jZfB</a>
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Daria Zarivna, Ukraine's presidential communications adviser wrote on Telegram: "In order to be in NATO and support alliances to gain support, fundamental diplomatic work must be done. Ukraine is doing it today."&nbsp;

After a period of stalled fighting, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war started raging with fighting on in several regions as Europe’s biggest armed conflict since World War II is set to enter a new phase.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian defence minister said last week that a spring counteroffensive could begin as soon as April as there's no hint of a negotiated end to the 13 months of fighting.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Is Finland the new front in the Ukraine war?

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On Wednesday, the EU presented a proposal to boost ammunition production in Europe to replace depleted stocks as it arms Ukraine in its war.&nbsp;

The European Commission floated draft legislation that would pour $550 million from the EU budget to increase ammunition production. The EU internal market commissioner, Thierry Breton, said that he hoped that the proposal would become law by the end of next month.&nbsp;

The Nordic countries have pledged both financial and military support to the war-torn nation. Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Norway have also joined in the international effort to supply heavier weapons to Ukraine by donating some of their own Leopard 2 tanks or offering financial support to acquire them.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Denmark said it was sending 1.7 billion kroner ($250 million) worth of military aid, its biggest donation to date, "to support the forthcoming Ukrainian offensive."

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)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a surprise visit to Finland on Wednesday (May 3). The Finnish presidency announced that he was there to participate in a summit gathering of the leaders of the five Nordic nations.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a surprise visit to Finland on Wednesday (May 3). The Finnish presidency announced that he was there to participate in a summit gathering of the leaders of the five Nordic nations. Zelensky will meet Finnish President Sauli Niinisto after attending the summit. The visit is significant amid the ongoing war as Finland recently joined The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a bloc Ukraine wants to join to counter Russia with the security of the military alliance. Zelensky is there to discuss "Ukraine's defence struggle", and will also hold bilateral talks with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Norway's Jonas Gahr Store, Denmark's Mette Frederiksen and Iceland's Katrin Jakobsdottir. Finland is now one of the nations Zelensky visited since Russia's invasion of Ukraine apart from the United States, Belgium, Poland, France, and the United Kingdom. German newspaper Tagesspiegel reported on Wednesday that Zelensky is to travel to Berlin on May 13. The report mentioned that the Ukrainian leader will be received by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz with military honours on May 14 before flying to Aachen later in the day to receive the 2023 Charlemagne Prize. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. 🇫🇮President #Zelensky in #Finland During the visit, Zelensky will take part in a meeting of the prime ministers of the Nordic countries with President Sauli #Niinistö. The meeting will be devoted to support for #Ukraine and other topical security issues. pic.twitter.com/M5pniRDksW — KyivPost (@KyivPost) May 3, 2023 × ⚡⚡⚡ #Zelensky met with #Finnish President #Niinisto. 🇺🇦🤝🇫🇮#UkraineWillWin #UkraineWar #Ukraine️ #ukrainecounteroffensive #Ukrainian pic.twitter.com/SU1yh0jZfB — 🇺🇦UkraineNewsLive🇺🇦 (@UkraineNewsLive) May 3, 2023 × Daria Zarivna, Ukraine's presidential communications adviser wrote on Telegram: "In order to be in NATO and support alliances to gain support, fundamental diplomatic work must be done. Ukraine is doing it today." After a period of stalled fighting, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war started raging with fighting on in several regions as Europe’s biggest armed conflict since World War II is set to enter a new phase. The Ukrainian defence minister said last week that a spring counteroffensive could begin as soon as April as there's no hint of a negotiated end to the 13 months of fighting. WATCH | Gravitas: Is Finland the new front in the Ukraine war? × On Wednesday, the EU presented a proposal to boost ammunition production in Europe to replace depleted stocks as it arms Ukraine in its war. The European Commission floated draft legislation that would pour $550 million from the EU budget to increase ammunition production. The EU internal market commissioner, Thierry Breton, said that he hoped that the proposal would become law by the end of next month. The Nordic countries have pledged both financial and military support to the war-torn nation. Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Norway have also joined in the international effort to supply heavier weapons to Ukraine by donating some of their own Leopard 2 tanks or offering financial support to acquire them. On Tuesday, Denmark said it was sending 1.7 billion kroner ($250 million) worth of military aid, its biggest donation to date, "to support the forthcoming Ukrainian offensive." 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's Zelensky in surprise visit to Finland for Nordic PM summit

The United States estimated on Monday (May 1) that Russia's military has suffered 100,000 casualties since December last year. The US claims that the "stunning" number shows that Moscow's effort for the winter offensive in Ukraine has "backfired". According to the US estimate, more than 20,000 Russian troops have died and another 80,000 were injured in eastern Ukraine, particularly in Bakhmut.&nbsp;

John Kirby, who is the White House national security spokesperson, said that the latest figure is based on US intelligence estimates and the total also includes over 20,000 killed in action.&nbsp;

Kirby told reporters: "We estimate that Russia has suffered more than 100,000 casualties, including over 20,000 killed in action."&nbsp;

"Russia's attempt at an offensive in the Donbas, largely through Bakhmut, has failed... Russia has been unable to seize any really strategically significant territory," Kirby added.&nbsp;

He further said, "Last December, Russia initiated a broad offensive across multiple lines of advance, including toward Vuhledar, Avdiivka, Bakhmut, and Kreminna. Most of these efforts stalled and failed."&nbsp;

Kirby said that Russia's incremental gains in Bakhmut have come at a "terrible, terrible cost". He said that Russia has exhausted its military stockpiles and its armed forces.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-explosion-derails-freight-train-in-region-bordering-ukraine-587769">Russia: Explosion derails freight train in region bordering Ukraine</a>&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;A big year for India-US ties: US Pres Joe Biden to visit India in Sept for G20 summit&nbsp;

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The official said, "The bottom line is that Russia's attempted offensive has backfired. After months of fighting and extraordinary losses, Russia continues to be focused on a single Ukrainian city with limited strategic value."&nbsp;

Kirby also claimed that Ukraine's defences in the region remain strong, but didn't reveal estimates of Ukrainian casualties because "they are the victims here. Russia is the aggressor".&nbsp;

He said that the White House will not put "information in the public domain that makes it any harder" for the close Western ally, whose army is being armed and trained by a US-led coalition of countries.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-air-defence-systems-repelling-russian-missile-attacks-in-kyiv-region-say-officials-587668">Ukraine war: Ukrainian air defences shoot down 15 of 18 Russian missiles launched</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Battle of Bakhmut&nbsp;</h2>

A top Ukrainian general claimed on Monday that they have ousted Russian forces from some positions in Bakhmut amid fierce battles. Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, the Ukrainian commander of ground forces, said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app: "The situation (in Bakhmut) is quite difficult."&nbsp;

"At the same time, in certain parts of the city, the enemy was counterattacked by our units and left some positions" in recent days, he said.

The West is also claiming that Russia is running out of weapons as Yevgeny Prigozhin, who is the head of Wagner, said on Telegram on Monday that his fighters needed some 300 tonnes of artillery shells a day for the assault on Bakhmut, but were receiving only a third of that amount.&nbsp;

"Three hundred tonnes a day is 10 cargo containers - not a lot at all," said Prigozhin.&nbsp;

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The United States estimated on Monday (May 1) that Russia's military has suffered 100,000 casualties since December last year. The US claims that the "stunning" number shows that Moscow's effort for the winter offensive in Ukraine has "backfired".

The United States estimated on Monday (May 1) that Russia's military has suffered 100,000 casualties since December last year. The US claims that the "stunning" number shows that Moscow's effort for the winter offensive in Ukraine has "backfired". According to the US estimate, more than 20,000 Russian troops have died and another 80,000 were injured in eastern Ukraine, particularly in Bakhmut. John Kirby, who is the White House national security spokesperson, said that the latest figure is based on US intelligence estimates and the total also includes over 20,000 killed in action. Kirby told reporters: "We estimate that Russia has suffered more than 100,000 casualties, including over 20,000 killed in action." "Russia's attempt at an offensive in the Donbas, largely through Bakhmut, has failed... Russia has been unable to seize any really strategically significant territory," Kirby added. He further said, "Last December, Russia initiated a broad offensive across multiple lines of advance, including toward Vuhledar, Avdiivka, Bakhmut, and Kreminna. Most of these efforts stalled and failed." Kirby said that Russia's incremental gains in Bakhmut have come at a "terrible, terrible cost". He said that Russia has exhausted its military stockpiles and its armed forces. ALSO READ | Russia: Explosion derails freight train in region bordering Ukraine WATCH | A big year for India-US ties: US Pres Joe Biden to visit India in Sept for G20 summit × The official said, "The bottom line is that Russia's attempted offensive has backfired. After months of fighting and extraordinary losses, Russia continues to be focused on a single Ukrainian city with limited strategic value." Kirby also claimed that Ukraine's defences in the region remain strong, but didn't reveal estimates of Ukrainian casualties because "they are the victims here. Russia is the aggressor". He said that the White House will not put "information in the public domain that makes it any harder" for the close Western ally, whose army is being armed and trained by a US-led coalition of countries. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: Ukrainian air defences shoot down 15 of 18 Russian missiles launched Battle of Bakhmut A top Ukrainian general claimed on Monday that they have ousted Russian forces from some positions in Bakhmut amid fierce battles. Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, the Ukrainian commander of ground forces, said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app: "The situation (in Bakhmut) is quite difficult." "At the same time, in certain parts of the city, the enemy was counterattacked by our units and left some positions" in recent days, he said. The West is also claiming that Russia is running out of weapons as Yevgeny Prigozhin, who is the head of Wagner, said on Telegram on Monday that his fighters needed some 300 tonnes of artillery shells a day for the assault on Bakhmut, but were receiving only a third of that amount. "Three hundred tonnes a day is 10 cargo containers - not a lot at all," said Prigozhin. 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.

Russia's military suffered 100,000 casualties in last five months: White House

Emine Dzheppar, who is the Ukrainian deputy minister of foreign affairs, expressed regret after a social media post by Ukraine's defence ministry showed Hindu Goddess Kali in an awkward pose.&nbsp;

On May 2 (Tuesday), Dzheppar tweeted: "We regret @DefenceU depicting #Hindu goddess #Kali in a distorted manner. #Ukraine &amp;its people respect unique #Indian culture&amp;highly appreciate🇮🇳support."&nbsp;

The minister added that the depiction has already been removed and Ukraine is determined to further increase cooperation in the spirit of "mutual respect and friendship".&nbsp;

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We regret <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceU?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DefenceU</a> depicting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hindu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hindu</a> goddess <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kali</a> in distorted manner. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> &amp;its people respect unique <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> culture&amp;highly appreciate🇮🇳support.The depiction has already been removed.🇺🇦is determined to further increase cooperation in spirit of mutual respect&amp;💪friendship.
— Emine Dzheppar (@EmineDzheppar) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmineDzheppar/status/1653109804393455632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-military-suffered-100000-casualties-in-last-five-months-white-house-588028">Russia's military suffered 100,000 casualties in last five months: White House</a>&nbsp;

The post, with the caption "Work of art", sparked a huge row in India, and was later deleted. In the controversial image, created by Ukrainian artist Maksym Palenko, a bomb blast was shown merged with the famous American actress Marilyn Monroe's "flying skirt" pose.&nbsp;

But Indian users slammed the post for mocking the Hindu culture with the caricaturish depiction as it had notable similarities with the Hindu Goddess "Maa Kali" — the deity with its blue skin colour, tongue sticking out pose and a wreath of skulls around the neck.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia launches another barrage of strikes, most repelled by Ukraine&nbsp;

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-explosion-derails-freight-train-in-region-bordering-ukraine-587769">Russia: Explosion derails freight train in region bordering Ukraine</a>&nbsp;

A Twitter user who goes by the name Mohan Sinha tweeted: "This is why you guys are not getting any support from India."&nbsp;

Another user, Sudhanshu Singh, tweeted: "I am absolutely appalled to see the Ukrainian defence handle mocking Maa Kali, a revered Hindu goddess. This is a gross display of insensitivity and ignorance. I urge them to take down the offensive content and issue an apology. Respect for all religions and beliefs is paramount."&nbsp;

One of the netizens wrote, "Shocking! Official handle of Ukraine Defense Ministry is portraying Maa Kali in a demeaning pose. This is not a work of art. Our faith is not a matter of joke. Take it down and apologise @DefenceU" &nbsp;

<h2>Dzheppar's visit to India</h2>

Last month, Dzheppar visited India and met the Secretary (West), of the Ministry of External Affairs, Sanjay Verma and several other officials. While speaking to reporters, she said that India, as a global player, has the potential to be a leader in promoting peace and justice worldwide.&nbsp;

"India as a global player really is the Visha guru of the world. I think it's crucial that we are the victim of the War, of unprovoked war, of the Neo-colonial war," she had said.

During her visit, she also said that she hoped that India will play an active role in addressing global issues and challenges, particularly in the areas of economics, energy, and nuclear policy. Asked about India-Russia energy ties, Dzheppar urged India to diversify its resources, including energy and military contracts, to avoid being dependent on any one country.&nbsp;

"We are not in the position of instructing India, in their economic ties with other countries. I think that India should be pragmatic in diversifying the energy resources, in diversifying military contracts, in diversifying political interaction," she added.&nbsp;

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Emine Dzheppar, who is the Ukrainian deputy minister of foreign affairs, expressed regret after a social media post by Ukraine's defence ministry showed Hindu Goddess Kali in an awkward pose.

Emine Dzheppar, who is the Ukrainian deputy minister of foreign affairs, expressed regret after a social media post by Ukraine's defence ministry showed Hindu Goddess Kali in an awkward pose. On May 2 (Tuesday), Dzheppar tweeted: "We regret @DefenceU depicting #Hindu goddess #Kali in a distorted manner. #Ukraine &its people respect unique #Indian culture&highly appreciate🇮🇳support." The minister added that the depiction has already been removed and Ukraine is determined to further increase cooperation in the spirit of "mutual respect and friendship". We regret @DefenceU depicting #Hindu goddess #Kali in distorted manner. #Ukraine &its people respect unique #Indian culture&highly appreciate🇮🇳support.The depiction has already been removed.🇺🇦is determined to further increase cooperation in spirit of mutual respect&💪friendship. — Emine Dzheppar (@EmineDzheppar) May 1, 2023 × ALSO READ | Russia's military suffered 100,000 casualties in last five months: White House The post, with the caption "Work of art", sparked a huge row in India, and was later deleted. In the controversial image, created by Ukrainian artist Maksym Palenko, a bomb blast was shown merged with the famous American actress Marilyn Monroe's "flying skirt" pose. But Indian users slammed the post for mocking the Hindu culture with the caricaturish depiction as it had notable similarities with the Hindu Goddess "Maa Kali" — the deity with its blue skin colour, tongue sticking out pose and a wreath of skulls around the neck. WATCH | Russia launches another barrage of strikes, most repelled by Ukraine × ALSO READ | Russia: Explosion derails freight train in region bordering Ukraine A Twitter user who goes by the name Mohan Sinha tweeted: "This is why you guys are not getting any support from India." Another user, Sudhanshu Singh, tweeted: "I am absolutely appalled to see the Ukrainian defence handle mocking Maa Kali, a revered Hindu goddess. This is a gross display of insensitivity and ignorance. I urge them to take down the offensive content and issue an apology. Respect for all religions and beliefs is paramount." One of the netizens wrote, "Shocking! Official handle of Ukraine Defense Ministry is portraying Maa Kali in a demeaning pose. This is not a work of art. Our faith is not a matter of joke. Take it down and apologise @DefenceU" Dzheppar's visit to India Last month, Dzheppar visited India and met the Secretary (West), of the Ministry of External Affairs, Sanjay Verma and several other officials. While speaking to reporters, she said that India, as a global player, has the potential to be a leader in promoting peace and justice worldwide. "India as a global player really is the Visha guru of the world. I think it's crucial that we are the victim of the War, of unprovoked war, of the Neo-colonial war," she had said. During her visit, she also said that she hoped that India will play an active role in addressing global issues and challenges, particularly in the areas of economics, energy, and nuclear policy. Asked about India-Russia energy ties, Dzheppar urged India to diversify its resources, including energy and military contracts, to avoid being dependent on any one country. "We are not in the position of instructing India, in their economic ties with other countries. I think that India should be pragmatic in diversifying the energy resources, in diversifying military contracts, in diversifying political interaction," she added. 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 'regrets' depicting Hindu goddess Kali in distorted manner

The local governor of Bryansk, Russia, said that a freight train derailed Monday (May 1) in the western region bordering Ukraine after an "explosive device" detonated on the rail tracks.&nbsp;Alexander Bogomaz said on Telegram: "An unidentified explosive device went off, as a result of which a locomotive of a freight train derailed." The official further added that there were "no casualties".&nbsp;

Images and videos from the site were shared on social media platforms, which showed plumes of dark grey smoke rising into the air and several tank carriages also seen laying on their side.&nbsp;

As reported by the news agency Reuters, Russian Railways, which is the country's rail operator, said the incident occurred at 10:17 (Moscow time) (0717 GMT). It said the locomotive and seven freight wagons were derailed and the locomotive caught fire.&nbsp;

Russian Railways said in a statement that the front locomotive and seven wagons derailed "after the intervention of unauthorised persons in the work of railway transport" and as a result of the incident, "the locomotive caught fire".&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-air-defence-systems-repelling-russian-missile-attacks-in-kyiv-region-say-officials-587668">Ukraine war: Ukrainian air defences shoot down 15 of 18 Russian missiles launched</a>&nbsp;

The authorities also revealed that the region where the incident took place borders both Ukraine and Belarus. In the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the region has seen multiple attacks. The governor said four civilians died after Kyiv shelled a village just across the border on Saturday. &nbsp;

The governor also mentioned that the emergency services were working at the scene. The rail traffic in the area had been suspended. As reported by the news agency AFP, the state operator said firefighters were working at the scene and that there could be delays on passenger trains from the area to Moscow.&nbsp;

In another incident, the governor of Russia's Leningrad region near St Petersburg said a power line had been blown up overnight. He also noted that an explosive device was discovered near a second line.&nbsp;

On his Telegram page on Monday, Governor Alexander Drozdenko shared images of destroyed power lines and metal supports. Without giving any details, the governor said that Russia's FSB federal security service was working on the site.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

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This train carrying oil products and construction material derailed in Bryansk Oblast, Russia. 7-8 cars have been compromised. It is said that an explosive device on the railway track was used. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bryansk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bryansk</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://t.co/oy2SYLj9ff">pic.twitter.com/oy2SYLj9ff</a>
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<h2>Russian missile strikes on Ukraine</h2>

Russia fired missiles at targets across Ukraine overnight in its second major air strike in three days. The strikes caused a huge blaze in the southeastern Pavlohrad district, where 34 people were wounded and dozens of homes damaged.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian military described a fire in Sevastopol, on the Russian-occupied Crimean peninsula, as part of the preparation for Ukraine's planned upcoming counteroffensive.&nbsp;

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.

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The local governor of Bryansk, Russia, said that a freight train derailed Monday (May 1) in the western region bordering Ukraine after an "explosive device" detonated on the rail tracks.

The local governor of Bryansk, Russia, said that a freight train derailed Monday (May 1) in the western region bordering Ukraine after an "explosive device" detonated on the rail tracks. Alexander Bogomaz said on Telegram: "An unidentified explosive device went off, as a result of which a locomotive of a freight train derailed." The official further added that there were "no casualties". Images and videos from the site were shared on social media platforms, which showed plumes of dark grey smoke rising into the air and several tank carriages also seen laying on their side. As reported by the news agency Reuters, Russian Railways, which is the country's rail operator, said the incident occurred at 10:17 (Moscow time) (0717 GMT). It said the locomotive and seven freight wagons were derailed and the locomotive caught fire. Russian Railways said in a statement that the front locomotive and seven wagons derailed "after the intervention of unauthorised persons in the work of railway transport" and as a result of the incident, "the locomotive caught fire". ALSO READ | Ukraine war: Ukrainian air defences shoot down 15 of 18 Russian missiles launched The authorities also revealed that the region where the incident took place borders both Ukraine and Belarus. In the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the region has seen multiple attacks. The governor said four civilians died after Kyiv shelled a village just across the border on Saturday. The governor also mentioned that the emergency services were working at the scene. The rail traffic in the area had been suspended. As reported by the news agency AFP, the state operator said firefighters were working at the scene and that there could be delays on passenger trains from the area to Moscow. In another incident, the governor of Russia's Leningrad region near St Petersburg said a power line had been blown up overnight. He also noted that an explosive device was discovered near a second line. On his Telegram page on Monday, Governor Alexander Drozdenko shared images of destroyed power lines and metal supports. Without giving any details, the governor said that Russia's FSB federal security service was working on the site. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. This train carrying oil products and construction material derailed in Bryansk Oblast, Russia. 7-8 cars have been compromised. It is said that an explosive device on the railway track was used. #Bryansk #Russia pic.twitter.com/oy2SYLj9ff — (((Tendar))) (@Tendar) May 1, 2023 × Russian missile strikes on Ukraine Russia fired missiles at targets across Ukraine overnight in its second major air strike in three days. The strikes caused a huge blaze in the southeastern Pavlohrad district, where 34 people were wounded and dozens of homes damaged. The Ukrainian military described a fire in Sevastopol, on the Russian-occupied Crimean peninsula, as part of the preparation for Ukraine's planned upcoming counteroffensive. 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.

Russia: Explosion derails freight train in region bordering Ukraine

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday said that they will launch its counter-offensive against the armed forces of Russia even though they have not received Western fighter aircraft.

On multiple occasions, Zelensky had appealed to widen the Western military aid's scope for Ukraine.

"Frankly speaking, it would help us a lot. But we also understand that we can't drag it (the counteroffensive) out, which is why we'll start before we receive F-16s or other models. But to calm Russia down with the fact that we'd still need a couple of months to train on the aircraft and only then we'd start (a counteroffensive). No, this won't happen. We'll start and go forward, while at the same time, simultaneously, I think this is very important (to receive western fighter aircraft)," he said.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-would-have-fought-till-death-had-russians-attacked-kyiv-headquarters-587440">Zelensky says would have fought till death had Russians attacked Kyiv headquarters</a>

While addressing the Scandinavian journalists in Kyiv, Zelensky said that there were nations that had F-16 and other "Western kind aircraft" which were "ready to help us".

"We are capable of putting an end to this war. However, not everything is going to happen at once tomorrow. We need time to train, but we have an understanding how to do this faster, and we understand the logistics behind it. And most importantly, as of today, there are countries that have F-16s or other 'western kind aircraft' who want to, and who are ready to help us,” he stated.

However, the Ukrainian leader did not specify which countries he was referring to. The Ukrainian air force only owns Soviet-era fighter aircraft.

Earlier, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg was pressed on this point by Zelensky at a meeting held in Kyiv on April 20 and said that the military alliance needed to open its doors for membership of Ukraine.

WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine says it's 'ready' for counteroffensive

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After facing a Russian winter as well as spring offensive which has made small advances in the east, Ukraine now plans to recapture the land in its east and south in a counteroffensive in the weeks or months ahead.

In an earlier interview, Zelensky had claimed that he carries a pistol and would have fought with the Russian forces to death if they had stormed his Kyiv headquarters when the war began.

"I know how to shoot. Could you imagine (a headline like) 'The President of Ukraine is taken captive by Russians?' This is a disgrace. I believe this would be a disgrace," he said while speaking to the 1+1 television channel.

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(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday said that they will launch its counter-offensive against the armed forces of Russia even though they have not received Western fighter aircraft.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday said that they will launch its counter-offensive against the armed forces of Russia even though they have not received Western fighter aircraft. On multiple occasions, Zelensky had appealed to widen the Western military aid's scope for Ukraine. "Frankly speaking, it would help us a lot. But we also understand that we can't drag it (the counteroffensive) out, which is why we'll start before we receive F-16s or other models. But to calm Russia down with the fact that we'd still need a couple of months to train on the aircraft and only then we'd start (a counteroffensive). No, this won't happen. We'll start and go forward, while at the same time, simultaneously, I think this is very important (to receive western fighter aircraft)," he said. ALSO READ | Zelensky says would have fought till death had Russians attacked Kyiv headquarters While addressing the Scandinavian journalists in Kyiv, Zelensky said that there were nations that had F-16 and other "Western kind aircraft" which were "ready to help us". "We are capable of putting an end to this war. However, not everything is going to happen at once tomorrow. We need time to train, but we have an understanding how to do this faster, and we understand the logistics behind it. And most importantly, as of today, there are countries that have F-16s or other 'western kind aircraft' who want to, and who are ready to help us,” he stated. However, the Ukrainian leader did not specify which countries he was referring to. The Ukrainian air force only owns Soviet-era fighter aircraft. Earlier, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg was pressed on this point by Zelensky at a meeting held in Kyiv on April 20 and said that the military alliance needed to open its doors for membership of Ukraine. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine says it's 'ready' for counteroffensive After facing a Russian winter as well as spring offensive which has made small advances in the east, Ukraine now plans to recapture the land in its east and south in a counteroffensive in the weeks or months ahead. In an earlier interview, Zelensky had claimed that he carries a pistol and would have fought with the Russian forces to death if they had stormed his Kyiv headquarters when the war began. "I know how to shoot. Could you imagine (a headline like) 'The President of Ukraine is taken captive by Russians?' This is a disgrace. I believe this would be a disgrace," he said while speaking to the 1+1 television channel. (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 will launch counteroffensive without Western fighter aircraft, says Zelensky

A Ukrainian missile strike on a Russian village near the border killed at least two people, the regional governor said Sunday (April 30). The governor of Bryansk oblast, Alexander Bogomaz, said that the missiles hit the village of Suzemka, to the east of the frontier between the two countries.&nbsp;

He said in a message posted on Telegram: "As a result of the strike inflicted by Ukrainian nationalists, unfortunately, two civilians were killed."&nbsp;

"According to preliminary data, one residential building was completely destroyed, two more houses were partially destroyed," he added.

The missile attack appeared to be part of the counteroffensive as it comes a week after Russia renewed heavy missile attacks on Ukrainian cities while&nbsp;a massive fire broke out in Moscow-annexed Crimea on Saturday after a suspected drone attack triggered a blaze at a fuel storage facility.&nbsp;

The officials, appointed by Russia, in eastern Ukraine also reported that Ukrainian shelling had killed nine people, including an eight-year-old girl, in the city of Donetsk.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine on supply route into Bakhmut&nbsp;</h2>

A military spokesperson said on Saturday that Ukraine remains in control of a key supply route into Bakhmut as the head of Russia's mercenary Wagner Group threatened to withdraw some of his troops from the eastern city if Moscow did not send more ammunition.&nbsp;

Russian forces have been trying to break into the shattered remains of what was once a 70,000-population city, but Kyiv has said that it is committed to defending Bakhmut, which Russia sees as a starting stone to a larger offensive on other cities.&nbsp;

As quoted by the news agency Reuters, Serhiy Cherevatyi, who is spokesperson for the Ukrainian troops in the east, said in an interview with the local news website Dzerkalo Tyzhnia: "For several weeks, the Russians have been talking about seizing the 'road of life,' as well as about constant fire control over it. Yes, it is really difficult there...(but) the defence forces have not allowed the Russians to 'cut off' our logistics."&nbsp;

The news agency further added that the "road of life" connects the ruins of Bakhmut to the neighbouring town Chasiv Yar to the west, a distance of slightly over 17 kilometres.&nbsp;

In its daily briefing on Sunday, Ukraine's senior military command stated that its forces withstood 58 Russian attacks the previous day along the frontline spanning from Bakhmut through Avdiivka and on to Maryinka farther south in the Donetsk area.&nbsp;

Military observers have said that if Bakhmut falls, Chasiv Yar would be the next target for Russians, despite the fact that it is on higher terrain and Ukrainian forces are thought to have built defensive fortifications nearby.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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A Ukrainian missile strike on a Russian village near the border killed at least two people, the regional governor said Sunday (April 30). The governor of Bryansk oblast, Alexander Bogomaz, said that the missiles hit the village of Suzemka, to the east of the frontier between the two countries.

A Ukrainian missile strike on a Russian village near the border killed at least two people, the regional governor said Sunday (April 30). The governor of Bryansk oblast, Alexander Bogomaz, said that the missiles hit the village of Suzemka, to the east of the frontier between the two countries. He said in a message posted on Telegram: "As a result of the strike inflicted by Ukrainian nationalists, unfortunately, two civilians were killed." "According to preliminary data, one residential building was completely destroyed, two more houses were partially destroyed," he added. The missile attack appeared to be part of the counteroffensive as it comes a week after Russia renewed heavy missile attacks on Ukrainian cities while a massive fire broke out in Moscow-annexed Crimea on Saturday after a suspected drone attack triggered a blaze at a fuel storage facility. The officials, appointed by Russia, in eastern Ukraine also reported that Ukrainian shelling had killed nine people, including an eight-year-old girl, in the city of Donetsk. Ukraine on supply route into Bakhmut A military spokesperson said on Saturday that Ukraine remains in control of a key supply route into Bakhmut as the head of Russia's mercenary Wagner Group threatened to withdraw some of his troops from the eastern city if Moscow did not send more ammunition. Russian forces have been trying to break into the shattered remains of what was once a 70,000-population city, but Kyiv has said that it is committed to defending Bakhmut, which Russia sees as a starting stone to a larger offensive on other cities. As quoted by the news agency Reuters, Serhiy Cherevatyi, who is spokesperson for the Ukrainian troops in the east, said in an interview with the local news website Dzerkalo Tyzhnia: "For several weeks, the Russians have been talking about seizing the 'road of life,' as well as about constant fire control over it. Yes, it is really difficult there...(but) the defence forces have not allowed the Russians to 'cut off' our logistics." The news agency further added that the "road of life" connects the ruins of Bakhmut to the neighbouring town Chasiv Yar to the west, a distance of slightly over 17 kilometres. In its daily briefing on Sunday, Ukraine's senior military command stated that its forces withstood 58 Russian attacks the previous day along the frontline spanning from Bakhmut through Avdiivka and on to Maryinka farther south in the Donetsk area. Military observers have said that if Bakhmut falls, Chasiv Yar would be the next target for Russians, despite the fact that it is on higher terrain and Ukrainian forces are thought to have built defensive fortifications nearby. (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: Missile strike on Russian village near border kills two, says official

A total of 26 people, including five children, have been killed as Russian missile strikes battered cities across Ukraine on Friday (April 28). Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the latest strikes and vowed a response. "Only absolute evil can unleash such terror against Ukraine," he said in his evening address on Friday, the news agency AFP reported on Saturday.&nbsp;

Friday's attacks included a strike on a residential block in Ukraine's Uman city, where rescue workers were seen extracting victims' remains from a destroyed residential building. According to authorities, 23 people, including four children, were killed in the block.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-nations-reach-deal-in-principle-to-transit-grain-from-ukraine-587170">EU nations reach deal 'in principle' to transit grain from Ukraine</a>

Russian missiles also targeted the central city of Dnipro, killing a 31-year-old woman and her two-year-old daughter in their sleep. AFP reported that the woman's parents were hospitalised. Dnipro is already grief-stricken after over 40 people were killed in a missile strike on a tower block in January.&nbsp;

Separately, authorities in Kherson said on Friday that Russian forces shelled the village of Bilozerka, killing a 57-year-old woman and wounding three others. Meanwhile, there were no casualties reported in Ukraine's capital Kyiv which was one of the targeted cities.

The fresh&nbsp;attacks by Russian forces were the first large-scale air strikes in nearly two months.&nbsp;

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The absolute and only possible "Russian peace"... 
Take a careful look. And look again. If you don't want THIS spread around the world, then give us weapons. Lots of weapons. And add sanctions. And begin, finally, the expulsion of "Russian political witches" from international… <a href="https://t.co/Qm5iusR8hA">pic.twitter.com/Qm5iusR8hA</a>
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Condemning the attacks, Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak demanded "lots of weapons" and more sanctions on Russia. Tweeting visuals of the destruction caused by Russian strikes, Podolyak said, "The absolute and only possible "Russian peace"... Take a careful look. And look again. If you don't want THIS spread around the world, then give us weapons. Lots of weapons. And add sanctions. And begin, finally, the expulsion of "Russian political witches" from international organizations..."

Earlier on Friday, Ukraine's Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said that the government's preparations to push back against entrenched Russian positions were almost complete.&nbsp;

"Equipment has been promised, prepared and partially delivered. In a global sense, we're ready. Preparations are coming to an end," Defence Minister Reznikov said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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A total of 26 people, including five children, have been killed as Russian missile strikes battered cities across Ukraine on Friday (April 28). Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the latest strikes and vowed a response.

A total of 26 people, including five children, have been killed as Russian missile strikes battered cities across Ukraine on Friday (April 28). Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the latest strikes and vowed a response. "Only absolute evil can unleash such terror against Ukraine," he said in his evening address on Friday, the news agency AFP reported on Saturday. Friday's attacks included a strike on a residential block in Ukraine's Uman city, where rescue workers were seen extracting victims' remains from a destroyed residential building. According to authorities, 23 people, including four children, were killed in the block. ALSO READ | EU nations reach deal 'in principle' to transit grain from Ukraine Russian missiles also targeted the central city of Dnipro, killing a 31-year-old woman and her two-year-old daughter in their sleep. AFP reported that the woman's parents were hospitalised. Dnipro is already grief-stricken after over 40 people were killed in a missile strike on a tower block in January. Separately, authorities in Kherson said on Friday that Russian forces shelled the village of Bilozerka, killing a 57-year-old woman and wounding three others. Meanwhile, there were no casualties reported in Ukraine's capital Kyiv which was one of the targeted cities. The fresh attacks by Russian forces were the first large-scale air strikes in nearly two months. The absolute and only possible "Russian peace"... Take a careful look. And look again. If you don't want THIS spread around the world, then give us weapons. Lots of weapons. And add sanctions. And begin, finally, the expulsion of "Russian political witches" from international… pic.twitter.com/Qm5iusR8hA — Михайло Подоляк (@Podolyak_M) April 28, 2023 × Condemning the attacks, Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak demanded "lots of weapons" and more sanctions on Russia. Tweeting visuals of the destruction caused by Russian strikes, Podolyak said, "The absolute and only possible "Russian peace"... Take a careful look. And look again. If you don't want THIS spread around the world, then give us weapons. Lots of weapons. And add sanctions. And begin, finally, the expulsion of "Russian political witches" from international organizations..." Earlier on Friday, Ukraine's Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said that the government's preparations to push back against entrenched Russian positions were almost complete. "Equipment has been promised, prepared and partially delivered. In a global sense, we're ready. Preparations are coming to an end," Defence Minister Reznikov said. (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: Russian missile strikes kill 26 including five children; Zelensky vows response

A huge fire broke out at a fuel depot in Russia-annexed Crimea's port city of Sevastopol on Saturday (April 29), with authorities saying it was the result of a drone strike.

A huge fire broke out at a fuel depot in Russia-annexed Crimea's port city of Sevastopol on Saturday (April 29), with authorities saying it was the result of a drone strike. The Russian-installed governor of the peninsula, Mikhail Razvozhayev said on Telegram, "A fuel reserve is on fire in the Kazachya Bay district of Crimea's port city Sevastopol. According to preliminary information, it was caused by a drone strike." No one was hurt in the fire, Razvozhayev said. "The situation is under the control of our firefighters and all operative services. Since the volume of fuel is large, it will take time to localise the fire," the governor further said and urged residents to remain calm. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: Russian missile strikes kill 26 including five children; Zelensky vows response Sevastopol, on the Crimean peninsula that Russia annexed from Ukraine in 2014, has come under repeated air attacks since Russia sent its troops to its neighbour in February last year. Saturday's drone strike comes after Russia said on Monday that it repelled a drone attack on Sevastopol. "An attempted attack on Sevastopol was repelled from 3:30 am," Razvozhayev wrote on Telegram, adding that one unmanned surface vehicle, or drone ship, was destroyed while a second exploded. There was no damage or casualties. The ongoing war in Ukraine has intensified further after Russian missile strikes battered Ukrainian cities on Friday, killing 26 people, including five children. These were the first large-scale air strikes in nearly two months. Friday's missile attacks included a strike on a residential block in Uman where 23 people, including four children, were killed. The central city of Dnipro was also targeted, killing a 31-year-old woman and her two-year-old daughter in their sleep. And in Kherson, Russian forces shelled the village of Bilozerka, killing a 57-year-old woman and wounding three others. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the strikes and vowed a response. Only absolute evil can unleash such terror against Ukraine," he said in his evening address on Friday. The Ukrainian government has said that its preparations to push back against entrenched Russian positions were almost complete. "Equipment has been promised, prepared and partially delivered. In a global sense, we're ready. Preparations are coming to an end," Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said on Friday. 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.

Huge fire breaks out at fuel depot in Russian-occupied Crimea after drone strike: Official

A Danish newspaper has claimed quoting the Denmark military that a Russian Navy ship was spotted near the Nord Stream pipelines days before the September 2022 blasts.

Dagbladet Information newspaper on Thursday reported that the Russian submarine rescue ship, SS-750, was spotted in the Baltic Sea just four days before the unexplained explosions near the pipeline that linked Russia to Germany.

The paper quoting Danish defence authorities reported that as&nbsp;many as 26 images were taken of the ship, which carries a small submarine that is designed to carry out underwater operations.

“The Danish military confirmed that 26 photos of the Russian vessel were taken from a Danish patrol boat in the zone located east of Bornholm on 22 September 2022,” the newspaper said, adding that the photos were classified.

The prosecutor leading Sweden’s investigation into the sabotage has acknowledged the existence of these photographs.

“I’m aware of the information from before…This is not new information to us,” public prosecutor Mats Ljungqvist said on Friday, AFP news agency reported.

He, however, did not divulge further on how the probing team intends to use these photographs for investigation, saying that it was “confidential".

<h2>Nord Stream blasts: Will do everything we can to stop western cover-up, says Russia</h2>

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Seven months have passed since the blasts and it has not yet been established who was responsible for it, despite criminal investigations launched by three countries—Germany, Sweden and Denmark—that border the pipeline.

Swedish and Danish authorities termed the blasts an act of deliberate sabotage. In November, Sweden’s Prosecution Authority claimed that residues of explosives and several “foreign objects” were found at the “crime scene” on the seabed, around 100 metres below the surface of the Baltic Sea, close to the Danish Island of Bornholm.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russian-missile-strikes-kill-26-including-five-children-zelensky-vows-response-587174">Ukraine war: Russian missile strikes kill 26 including five children</a>

In March, The New York Times reported that US intelligence officials have proof that a “pro-Ukrainian group” was responsible for the blasts, without the involvement of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

At that time Ljungqvist said it was “still unclear” who was behind the sabotage, calling it “a complex case”. 
 
“Our primary assumption is that a state is behind it,” he was quoted as saying.

Still, speculations about Russia's involvement haven't been completely ruled out. Last week,&nbsp;a joint investigation by Danish, Finnish, Swedish and Norwegian public broadcasters last week found that Russia has been using civilian vessels to collect intelligence on military activity and critical infrastructure in the North Sea, Politico reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Danish newspaper has claimed quoting the Denmark military that a Russian Navy ship was spotted near the Nord Stream pipelines days before the September 2022 blasts.

A Danish newspaper has claimed quoting the Denmark military that a Russian Navy ship was spotted near the Nord Stream pipelines days before the September 2022 blasts. Dagbladet Information newspaper on Thursday reported that the Russian submarine rescue ship, SS-750, was spotted in the Baltic Sea just four days before the unexplained explosions near the pipeline that linked Russia to Germany. The paper quoting Danish defence authorities reported that as many as 26 images were taken of the ship, which carries a small submarine that is designed to carry out underwater operations. “The Danish military confirmed that 26 photos of the Russian vessel were taken from a Danish patrol boat in the zone located east of Bornholm on 22 September 2022,” the newspaper said, adding that the photos were classified. The prosecutor leading Sweden’s investigation into the sabotage has acknowledged the existence of these photographs. “I’m aware of the information from before…This is not new information to us,” public prosecutor Mats Ljungqvist said on Friday, AFP news agency reported. He, however, did not divulge further on how the probing team intends to use these photographs for investigation, saying that it was “confidential". Nord Stream blasts: Will do everything we can to stop western cover-up, says Russia Seven months have passed since the blasts and it has not yet been established who was responsible for it, despite criminal investigations launched by three countries—Germany, Sweden and Denmark—that border the pipeline. Swedish and Danish authorities termed the blasts an act of deliberate sabotage. In November, Sweden’s Prosecution Authority claimed that residues of explosives and several “foreign objects” were found at the “crime scene” on the seabed, around 100 metres below the surface of the Baltic Sea, close to the Danish Island of Bornholm. Also read | Ukraine war: Russian missile strikes kill 26 including five children In March, The New York Times reported that US intelligence officials have proof that a “pro-Ukrainian group” was responsible for the blasts, without the involvement of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. At that time Ljungqvist said it was “still unclear” who was behind the sabotage, calling it “a complex case”. “Our primary assumption is that a state is behind it,” he was quoted as saying. Still, speculations about Russia's involvement haven't been completely ruled out. Last week, a joint investigation by Danish, Finnish, Swedish and Norwegian public broadcasters last week found that Russia has been using civilian vessels to collect intelligence on military activity and critical infrastructure in the North Sea, Politico reported. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian navy ship photographed near Nord Stream pipelines days before blasts: Report

A journalist from Ukraine was killed while travelling to the city of Kherson with an Italian colleague on Wednesday (April 26).&nbsp;Bogdan Bitik, who was working as an interpreter&nbsp;for La Repubblica reporter&nbsp;Corrado Zunino, was shot, according to the Italian newspaper, "most likely by Russian snipers".

Zunino is currently undergoing treatment after being shot in the shoulder.

From a hospital bed, he revealed to La Repubblica that they had just passed three Ukrainian checks when they were abruptly hit.&nbsp;

“I heard a hiss, and I saw Bogdan on the ground,” Zunino told Al Jazeera.

“He wasn’t moving. I crawled out of the line of fire. I ran until I passed a civilian car. I was full of blood. I had to be taken to Kherson Hospital.”

He added that he had been trying to call Bitik, who he described as “a great friend”, but got no answer.

“It’s excruciating,” he said.

Zunino claims that both men were wearing press vests when they were attacked next to the demolished Antonivskyi Bridge.

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This murder of the Ukrainian journalist Bogdan Bitik and wounding of <a href="https://twitter.com/corzunino?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@corzunino</a> is a new war crime of the Russians. At the same time, we appeal to the Italian Unions and to <a href="https://twitter.com/repubblica?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@repubblica</a> with a call to guarantee the protection of the rights of the Ukrainian fixer <a href="https://twitter.com/EFJEUROPE?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EFJEUROPE</a> <a href="https://t.co/N2mjtfWYJI">pic.twitter.com/N2mjtfWYJI</a>
— Sergiy Tomilenko (@Stommedia) <a href="https://twitter.com/Stommedia/status/1651510098617876481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The Committee to Protect Journalists estimates that since Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, at least 15 media professionals and journalists have died there.

<h2>'New war crime of the Russians'</h2>

The leader of the Ukrainian National Union of Journalists, Sergiy Tomilenko, branded the incident a "new war crime of the Russians" and urged Italian organisations and publications, including La Repubblica, to do more to safeguard Ukrainian reporters.

“I’m fine. But I’m sad to have lost a friend,” Zunino said in an interview on the Breakfast Club show at Radio Capital.

“I went on five missions with Bogdan. I’ve known him since I first arrived in Ukraine. He had returned to Ukraine from Indonesia, where he has a wife and a son. I have just spoken to his wife. They are all extraordinary, kind and generous people”.

As reported by La Repubblica, the body of Bitik has not yet been found.

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Kherson was taken over in the early stages of the war before being freed by Ukrainian forces in November 2022.

After retreating across the Dnipro River, Russian forces have since regularly attacked the area with artillery, missiles, drone attacks, and sniper attacks.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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A journalist from Ukraine was killed while travelling to the city of Kherson with an Italian colleague on Wednesday (April 26). Bogdan Bitik, who was working as an interpreter for La Repubblica reporter Corrado Zunino, was shot, according to the Italian newspaper, "most likely by Russian snipers".

A journalist from Ukraine was killed while travelling to the city of Kherson with an Italian colleague on Wednesday (April 26). Bogdan Bitik, who was working as an interpreter for La Repubblica reporter Corrado Zunino, was shot, according to the Italian newspaper, "most likely by Russian snipers". Zunino is currently undergoing treatment after being shot in the shoulder. From a hospital bed, he revealed to La Repubblica that they had just passed three Ukrainian checks when they were abruptly hit. “I heard a hiss, and I saw Bogdan on the ground,” Zunino told Al Jazeera. “He wasn’t moving. I crawled out of the line of fire. I ran until I passed a civilian car. I was full of blood. I had to be taken to Kherson Hospital.” He added that he had been trying to call Bitik, who he described as “a great friend”, but got no answer. “It’s excruciating,” he said. Zunino claims that both men were wearing press vests when they were attacked next to the demolished Antonivskyi Bridge. This murder of the Ukrainian journalist Bogdan Bitik and wounding of @corzunino is a new war crime of the Russians. At the same time, we appeal to the Italian Unions and to @repubblica with a call to guarantee the protection of the rights of the Ukrainian fixer @EFJEUROPE pic.twitter.com/N2mjtfWYJI — Sergiy Tomilenko (@Stommedia) April 27, 2023 × The Committee to Protect Journalists estimates that since Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, at least 15 media professionals and journalists have died there. 'New war crime of the Russians' The leader of the Ukrainian National Union of Journalists, Sergiy Tomilenko, branded the incident a "new war crime of the Russians" and urged Italian organisations and publications, including La Repubblica, to do more to safeguard Ukrainian reporters. “I’m fine. But I’m sad to have lost a friend,” Zunino said in an interview on the Breakfast Club show at Radio Capital. “I went on five missions with Bogdan. I’ve known him since I first arrived in Ukraine. He had returned to Ukraine from Indonesia, where he has a wife and a son. I have just spoken to his wife. They are all extraordinary, kind and generous people”. As reported by La Repubblica, the body of Bitik has not yet been found. ALSO READ | White House responds to Pakistan purchasing discounted Russian oil Kherson was taken over in the early stages of the war before being freed by Ukrainian forces in November 2022. After retreating across the Dnipro River, Russian forces have since regularly attacked the area with artillery, missiles, drone attacks, and sniper attacks. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ukrainian journalist shot dead in alleged Russian sniper attack

The German air force said on Wednesday (April 26) that Germany and Britain intercepted three Russian military reconnaissance aircraft over the Baltic Sea.&nbsp;The&nbsp;German air force wrote on Twitter: "Reconnaissance flights intercepted. German and British Eurofighters were alerted to identify three military aircraft."&nbsp;

"The two SU-27 Flankers and an IL-20 from Russia were flying again without transponder signals in international airspace over the Baltic Sea," the tweet added.&nbsp;

News agencies have mentioned that Germany participates in monitoring the air space over the Baltic states as it is a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member. In the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war, security has been heightened for the Baltic states.

The military jets of Russia have repeatedly strayed into the airspace over the Baltic Sea in recent months and&nbsp;Russian military aircraft also fly from mainland Russia to Kaliningrad and back regularly. It means that such encounters are fairly routine in the region.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Will South Korea do more to help the US support Ukraine?&nbsp;

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-to-practice-combating-chinese-blockade-in-war-exercise-586225">Taiwan to practise combating Chinese blockade in war exercise</a>&nbsp;

The Norwegian air force also made similar claims as it said that it had similarly identified a group of Russian military aircraft in international airspace over the Barents Sea to the north of the country.&nbsp;

The air force said on Facebook that the aircraft included two Tu-160 Blackjack bombers, two Il-78 Midas aerial refuelling tankers and three MiG-31 Foxhound fighter jets.&nbsp;

News agencies have mentioned that Germany participates in monitoring the air space over the Baltic states as it is a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member. &nbsp;

In the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year in February, security has been heightened for the Baltic states. The military jets of Russia have repeatedly strayed into the airspace over the Baltic Sea in recent months.&nbsp;

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Aufklärungsflieger abgefangen. 🇩🇪 und 🇬🇧 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Eurofighter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Eurofighter</a> wurden alarmiert, um 3 Militärmaschinen zu identifizieren. Die zwei SU-27 Flanker und eine IL-20 aus 🇷🇺 flogen erneut ohne Transpondersignal im int. Luftraum über der Ostsee. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SecuringTheSkies?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SecuringTheSkies</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VAPB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VAPB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NATO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NATO</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GermanyNATO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GermanyNATO</a>… <a href="https://t.co/sOY4CPkrbe">pic.twitter.com/sOY4CPkrbe</a>
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Meanwhile, the Russian Defence Ministry said that two Tu-160 strategic missile carrier bombers completed a planned, more than 14-hour flight over the neutral waters of the Barents and Norwegian Seas.&nbsp;

The ministry said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app: "During the flight, the crews of long-range aviation aircraft carried out night and day refuelling in the air. Fighter escort was provided by the crews of the MiG-31 aircraft of the Air Force and Air Defense of the Northern Fleet."&nbsp;

News agency Reuters reported that Germany handed over responsibility for NATO's Baltic air policing mission to Britain earlier this month and NATO allies pitch in to protect the air space there because Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia do not have their own fighter jets.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The German air force said on Wednesday (April 26) that Germany and Britain intercepted three Russian military reconnaissance aircraft over the Baltic Sea. The German air force wrote on Twitter: "Reconnaissance flights intercepted.

The German air force said on Wednesday (April 26) that Germany and Britain intercepted three Russian military reconnaissance aircraft over the Baltic Sea. The German air force wrote on Twitter: "Reconnaissance flights intercepted. German and British Eurofighters were alerted to identify three military aircraft." "The two SU-27 Flankers and an IL-20 from Russia were flying again without transponder signals in international airspace over the Baltic Sea," the tweet added. News agencies have mentioned that Germany participates in monitoring the air space over the Baltic states as it is a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member. In the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war, security has been heightened for the Baltic states. The military jets of Russia have repeatedly strayed into the airspace over the Baltic Sea in recent months and Russian military aircraft also fly from mainland Russia to Kaliningrad and back regularly. It means that such encounters are fairly routine in the region. WATCH | Will South Korea do more to help the US support Ukraine? × ALSO READ | Taiwan to practise combating Chinese blockade in war exercise The Norwegian air force also made similar claims as it said that it had similarly identified a group of Russian military aircraft in international airspace over the Barents Sea to the north of the country. The air force said on Facebook that the aircraft included two Tu-160 Blackjack bombers, two Il-78 Midas aerial refuelling tankers and three MiG-31 Foxhound fighter jets. News agencies have mentioned that Germany participates in monitoring the air space over the Baltic states as it is a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member. In the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year in February, security has been heightened for the Baltic states. The military jets of Russia have repeatedly strayed into the airspace over the Baltic Sea in recent months. Aufklärungsflieger abgefangen. 🇩🇪 und 🇬🇧 #Eurofighter wurden alarmiert, um 3 Militärmaschinen zu identifizieren. Die zwei SU-27 Flanker und eine IL-20 aus 🇷🇺 flogen erneut ohne Transpondersignal im int. Luftraum über der Ostsee. #SecuringTheSkies #VAPB @NATO @GermanyNATO… pic.twitter.com/sOY4CPkrbe — Team Luftwaffe (@Team_Luftwaffe) April 26, 2023 × Meanwhile, the Russian Defence Ministry said that two Tu-160 strategic missile carrier bombers completed a planned, more than 14-hour flight over the neutral waters of the Barents and Norwegian Seas. The ministry said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app: "During the flight, the crews of long-range aviation aircraft carried out night and day refuelling in the air. Fighter escort was provided by the crews of the MiG-31 aircraft of the Air Force and Air Defense of the Northern Fleet." News agency Reuters reported that Germany handed over responsibility for NATO's Baltic air policing mission to Britain earlier this month and NATO allies pitch in to protect the air space there because Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia do not have their own fighter jets. (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.

German air force says Russian aircraft intercepted over Baltic Sea

Russia launched "a special military operation" in Ukraine last year in February and the conflict kept escalating ever since. Ukraine lobbied the allies for military aid, especially long-range missiles, advanced fighter jets and battle tanks. The Western nations balked for some time over fears of direct conflict with Russia, but eventually, they agreed to provide them to some extent, to help Kyiv against Moscow's aggression. The allies have provided a mix of cutting-edge, as well as, older technology to create multi-layered defences for the war-torn nation.&nbsp;

Now the latest report suggests that Ukraine has been disassembling many fighter jets it received from European nations such as Slovakia and Poland. Sputnik, cited a report published by a British weekly newspaper, The Economist, which suggested that a large part of the MiG-29 fighter jets that Poland and Slovakia sent to Ukraine can be of use only if disassembled for spare parts. They were recently handed over to Ukraine and apparently were not in flyable condition. In recent weeks, Poland and Slovakia transferred about eight MiG-29s.&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged the allies to supply fighter jets as soon as possible, but the EU and the United States remained mum. Earlier this month, Ukrainian Air Force Command spokesman Yuriy Ignat said that Ukraine would like to get F-16 fighters as the supply of other Western aircraft could take more time.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-lavrov-warns-about-world-being-on-dangerous-threshold-at-un-gets-criticised-by-the-west-585850">Russia’s Lavrov warns about world being on ‘dangerous threshold’, gets criticised by the West at UN</a>&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Rising Pro-China footprint in Latin America&nbsp;

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<h2>Ukraine's military capacity</h2>

The recent leaks of secret documents from the Pentagon raised questions over Ukraine's military capacity and its ability to make significant gains in an upcoming counteroffensive. The documents also raised doubts over Kyiv's capacity to keep defending against Russian strikes.&nbsp;

The top secret document seen by news agencies and several media outlets said that tough Russian defences and "enduring Ukrainian deficiencies in training and munitions supplies probably will strain progress and exacerbate casualties during the offensive".&nbsp;

The document labelled "top secret", detailed the poor condition of Ukrainian air defences. It is a vital cog of Ukraine's military at this moment as it helps in protecting against Russian strikes and preventing Moscow's forces from gaining control of the skies.&nbsp;

The document state that around 89 per cent of Ukrainian medium and high-range air defences was made up of SA-10 and SA-11 Soviet-era systems that could soon run short of ammunition. The authenticity of which could not immediately be confirmed.&nbsp;

The document projected that Ukraine's SA-11s would be out of missiles by late March, and its SA-10s by early May, based on the estimation of munitions use at the time.&nbsp;

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)&nbsp;

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Russia launched "a special military operation" in Ukraine last year in February and the conflict kept escalating ever since. Ukraine lobbied the allies for military aid, especially long-range missiles, advanced fighter jets and battle tanks.

Russia launched "a special military operation" in Ukraine last year in February and the conflict kept escalating ever since. Ukraine lobbied the allies for military aid, especially long-range missiles, advanced fighter jets and battle tanks. The Western nations balked for some time over fears of direct conflict with Russia, but eventually, they agreed to provide them to some extent, to help Kyiv against Moscow's aggression. The allies have provided a mix of cutting-edge, as well as, older technology to create multi-layered defences for the war-torn nation. Now the latest report suggests that Ukraine has been disassembling many fighter jets it received from European nations such as Slovakia and Poland. Sputnik, cited a report published by a British weekly newspaper, The Economist, which suggested that a large part of the MiG-29 fighter jets that Poland and Slovakia sent to Ukraine can be of use only if disassembled for spare parts. They were recently handed over to Ukraine and apparently were not in flyable condition. In recent weeks, Poland and Slovakia transferred about eight MiG-29s. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged the allies to supply fighter jets as soon as possible, but the EU and the United States remained mum. Earlier this month, Ukrainian Air Force Command spokesman Yuriy Ignat said that Ukraine would like to get F-16 fighters as the supply of other Western aircraft could take more time. ALSO READ | Russia’s Lavrov warns about world being on ‘dangerous threshold’, gets criticised by the West at UN WATCH | Rising Pro-China footprint in Latin America × Ukraine's military capacity The recent leaks of secret documents from the Pentagon raised questions over Ukraine's military capacity and its ability to make significant gains in an upcoming counteroffensive. The documents also raised doubts over Kyiv's capacity to keep defending against Russian strikes. The top secret document seen by news agencies and several media outlets said that tough Russian defences and "enduring Ukrainian deficiencies in training and munitions supplies probably will strain progress and exacerbate casualties during the offensive". The document labelled "top secret", detailed the poor condition of Ukrainian air defences. It is a vital cog of Ukraine's military at this moment as it helps in protecting against Russian strikes and preventing Moscow's forces from gaining control of the skies. The document state that around 89 per cent of Ukrainian medium and high-range air defences was made up of SA-10 and SA-11 Soviet-era systems that could soon run short of ammunition. The authenticity of which could not immediately be confirmed. The document projected that Ukraine's SA-11s would be out of missiles by late March, and its SA-10s by early May, based on the estimation of munitions use at the time. 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.

Is Ukraine disassembling fighter jets sent by Slovakia and Poland to use spare parts?

An annual report has found that military expenditure across the world hit an all-time high of $2.24tn (£1.8tn) in 2022, a year when there was an increase in dangerous nuclear weapons rhetoric amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

A leading conflict and armaments think tank said on Monday (April 24) that Russia's war in Ukraine drove the biggest annual increase in expenditure in Europe since the end of the Cold War three decades ago.&nbsp;

The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) said that the rise in Europe helped global military expenditures reach an eighth straight record — or 2.2 per cent of the world's gross domestic product.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-china-steps-up-threats-australia-unveils-biggest-defence-reform-since-world-war-ii-585568">As China steps up threats, Australia unveils biggest defence reform since World War II</a>&nbsp;

As quoted by Paris-based news agency AFP, researcher Nan Tian, who is one of the study's co-authors, said: "It's driven by the war in Ukraine, (which is) driving European budget spending upwards, but also the unresolved and worsening tensions in East Asia between the US and China."&nbsp;

The boost in military expenditures can be seen in the aftermath of countries rushing to bolster their defences after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which began in February last year following years of growing tensions.&nbsp;

As quoted by Reuters, SIPRI Senior Researcher Diego Lopes da Silva said: "This included multi-year plans to boost spending from several governments. As a result, we can reasonably expect military expenditure in Central and Western Europe to keep rising in the years ahead."&nbsp;

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Total global <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MilitarySpending?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MilitarySpending</a> increased by 3.7% in real terms in 2022, to reach a new high of $2240 billion—the highest level ever recorded in SIPRI data. New SIPRI data out now. 
 
Press Release ➡️<a href="https://t.co/CUMd384wvl">https://t.co/CUMd384wvl</a> 
Explore the interactive graphic ➡️<a href="https://t.co/Idxdu8MNQ1">https://t.co/Idxdu8MNQ1</a> <a href="https://t.co/oRKLYe9sIT">pic.twitter.com/oRKLYe9sIT</a>
— SIPRI (@SIPRIorg) <a href="https://twitter.com/SIPRIorg/status/1650280892970024960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Military expenditure in Europe saw its steepest year-on-year increase (⬆️13%) in at least 30 years. Ukraine’s🇺🇦 military spending rose by 640% to $44 billion in 2022 ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/CUMd3854kT">https://t.co/CUMd3854kT</a> 
 
Explore the interactive map of Europe ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/3yjLK4aWVJ">https://t.co/3yjLK4aWVJ</a> <a href="https://t.co/ImQ7Beva7C">pic.twitter.com/ImQ7Beva7C</a>
— SIPRI (@SIPRIorg) <a href="https://twitter.com/SIPRIorg/status/1650318645376196608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The 15 top spenders in 2022 together accounted for 82% of world <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MilitaryExpenditure?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MilitaryExpenditure</a>, or $1842 billion. The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USA</a>🇺🇸and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a>🇨🇳remained the two largest spenders, accounting for 39% and 13%, respectively ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/qBe5MZu9fi">https://t.co/qBe5MZu9fi</a> 
 
Explore the top 15 ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/GRbPi3w6kr">https://t.co/GRbPi3w6kr</a> <a href="https://t.co/Cx4J973HkU">pic.twitter.com/Cx4J973HkU</a>
— SIPRI (@SIPRIorg) <a href="https://twitter.com/SIPRIorg/status/1650356390374920194?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Moscow claimed that it has launched a "special military operation" to liberate it from the neo-Nazi regime and it also said that the operation was necessary to safeguard it against what it sees as a hostile and aggressive West.&nbsp;

Ukraine condemned the military incursion and, in the aftermath, its allies started pumping in advanced and precision weapons in the form of military aid to the war-hit nation.&nbsp;Ukraine and its allies say Russia is waging an unprovoked war aimed at grabbing territory.&nbsp;

SIPRI data suggested that Ukraine's military spending rose 640 per cent in 2022, the largest annual increase recorded in the Stockholm-based research report, which dates back to 1949, with that total not including the vast amounts of financial military aid provided by the West.&nbsp;

WATCH | Former Russian President Medvedev threatens to scrap grain deal if G7 bans export&nbsp;

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As per SIPRI's estimate, military aid to Ukraine from the United States accounted for 2.3 per cent of total US military spending in 2022.&nbsp;

The report also weighed in on Russia's military spending, which grew by an estimated 9.2 per cent. Notably, SIPRI said that the figures were "highly uncertain given the increasing opaqueness of financial authorities" since its war in Ukraine began.&nbsp;

As quoted by Reuters, Lucie Beraud-Sudreau, Director of SIPRI's Military Expenditure and Arms Production Programme, said: "The difference between Russia's budgetary plans and its actual military spending in 2022 suggests the invasion of Ukraine has cost Russia far more than it anticipated."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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An annual report has found that military expenditure across the world hit an all-time high of $2.24tn (£1.8tn) in 2022, a year when there was an increase in dangerous nuclear weapons rhetoric amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine.

An annual report has found that military expenditure across the world hit an all-time high of $2.24tn (£1.8tn) in 2022, a year when there was an increase in dangerous nuclear weapons rhetoric amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine. A leading conflict and armaments think tank said on Monday (April 24) that Russia's war in Ukraine drove the biggest annual increase in expenditure in Europe since the end of the Cold War three decades ago. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) said that the rise in Europe helped global military expenditures reach an eighth straight record — or 2.2 per cent of the world's gross domestic product. ALSO READ | As China steps up threats, Australia unveils biggest defence reform since World War II As quoted by Paris-based news agency AFP, researcher Nan Tian, who is one of the study's co-authors, said: "It's driven by the war in Ukraine, (which is) driving European budget spending upwards, but also the unresolved and worsening tensions in East Asia between the US and China." The boost in military expenditures can be seen in the aftermath of countries rushing to bolster their defences after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which began in February last year following years of growing tensions. As quoted by Reuters, SIPRI Senior Researcher Diego Lopes da Silva said: "This included multi-year plans to boost spending from several governments. As a result, we can reasonably expect military expenditure in Central and Western Europe to keep rising in the years ahead." Total global #MilitarySpending increased by 3.7% in real terms in 2022, to reach a new high of $2240 billion—the highest level ever recorded in SIPRI data. New SIPRI data out now. Press Release ➡️https://t.co/CUMd384wvl Explore the interactive graphic ➡️https://t.co/Idxdu8MNQ1 pic.twitter.com/oRKLYe9sIT — SIPRI (@SIPRIorg) April 23, 2023 × Military expenditure in Europe saw its steepest year-on-year increase (⬆️13%) in at least 30 years. Ukraine’s🇺🇦 military spending rose by 640% to $44 billion in 2022 ➡️ https://t.co/CUMd3854kT Explore the interactive map of Europe ➡️ https://t.co/3yjLK4aWVJ pic.twitter.com/ImQ7Beva7C — SIPRI (@SIPRIorg) April 24, 2023 × The 15 top spenders in 2022 together accounted for 82% of world #MilitaryExpenditure, or $1842 billion. The #USA🇺🇸and #China🇨🇳remained the two largest spenders, accounting for 39% and 13%, respectively ➡️ https://t.co/qBe5MZu9fi Explore the top 15 ➡️ https://t.co/GRbPi3w6kr pic.twitter.com/Cx4J973HkU — SIPRI (@SIPRIorg) April 24, 2023 × Moscow claimed that it has launched a "special military operation" to liberate it from the neo-Nazi regime and it also said that the operation was necessary to safeguard it against what it sees as a hostile and aggressive West. Ukraine condemned the military incursion and, in the aftermath, its allies started pumping in advanced and precision weapons in the form of military aid to the war-hit nation. Ukraine and its allies say Russia is waging an unprovoked war aimed at grabbing territory. SIPRI data suggested that Ukraine's military spending rose 640 per cent in 2022, the largest annual increase recorded in the Stockholm-based research report, which dates back to 1949, with that total not including the vast amounts of financial military aid provided by the West. WATCH | Former Russian President Medvedev threatens to scrap grain deal if G7 bans export × As per SIPRI's estimate, military aid to Ukraine from the United States accounted for 2.3 per cent of total US military spending in 2022. The report also weighed in on Russia's military spending, which grew by an estimated 9.2 per cent. Notably, SIPRI said that the figures were "highly uncertain given the increasing opaqueness of financial authorities" since its war in Ukraine began. As quoted by Reuters, Lucie Beraud-Sudreau, Director of SIPRI's Military Expenditure and Arms Production Programme, said: "The difference between Russia's budgetary plans and its actual military spending in 2022 suggests the invasion of Ukraine has cost Russia far more than it anticipated." (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.

Global military expenditure reaches new record high in 2022

The sanctions imposed by the Western world on Russia may not have deterred President Vladimir Putin from stopping his Ukraine invasion but the voices that are challenging him are certainly facing the heat.

The sanctions imposed by the Western world on Russia may not have deterred President Vladimir Putin from stopping his Ukraine invasion but the voices that are challenging him are certainly facing the heat. TV channel Dozhd, also known as TV Rain, widely recognised as one of the very few remaining Russian channels critical of Putin is facing heavy losses due to sanctions. Vera Krichevskaya, one of the co-founders said the channel was losing anywhere between $1 million to $1.5 million per year in potential revenue due to sanctions on its YouTube channel. Notably, after the Russian invasion, Google-owned YouTube suspended all monetisation programmes for users in Russia. The decision was taken after advertisements were already suspended in the country. About 65 per cent of TV Rain’s audience is in Russia but with no revenue coming from them, the channel has to rely on non-Russia-based audience for advertising income. Krichevskaya said she had been in touch with executives from Google and YouTube to persuade them to relax the rules but so far, no progress had been made. “I found it very strange that when the west goes on about the importance of freedom of speech and western European values, a company like Google has no flexibility," Krichevskaya was quoted as saying by The Guardian. “They give us zero income and zero profit on Russian audiences, making it near impossible to operate.” The channel was forced to leave Russia after the Putin administration accused it of broadcasting false information about the war. Since then, it had been operating from Lativa until the authorisation was revoked by the country's media watchdog. However, in January this year, the Netherlands granted a five-year broadcasting licence to the channel. WATCH | US releases new Russia sanctions list, top energy, telecom firm prime target in list × The game of sanctions The US Treasury and State Departments sanctioned nearly 120 targets, including Russian, Chinese, UAE and Turkish firms to squeeze Moscow for its ongoing war with Ukraine. While the likes of TV Rain face economic hardships, the US is also inflicting self-harm due to the sanctions. Earlier this week, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, without naming Russia said economic sanctions imposed on countries had put the dollar's dominance at stake. ALSO READ | US dollar may lose its dominance if nations are sanctioned, warns Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen As the US continues to plaster sanctions willy-nilly, targeted nations are seeking alternatives which puts the USD in jeopardy. "There is a risk when we use financial sanctions that are linked to the role of the dollar that over time it could undermine the hegemony of the dollar," Yellen was quoted as saying by CNN. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russian channel critical of Putin facing financial crunch due to Western sanctions

South Korea might extend its support for Ukraine beyond humanitarian and economic aid if it comes under a large-scale civilian attack, President&nbsp;Yoon&nbsp;Suk Yeol said, signalling a shift in his stance against arming Ukraine for the first time.

In an interview with Reuters ahead of his state visit to the US&nbsp;next week,&nbsp;Yoon&nbsp;said his government has been exploring how to help defend and rebuild Ukraine, just as South Korea received international assistance during the 1950-53 Korean War.

"If there is a situation the international community cannot condone, such as any large-scale attack on civilians, massacre or serious violation of the laws of war, it might be difficult for us to insist only on humanitarian or financial support,"&nbsp;Yoon&nbsp;said.

It was the first time that Seoul suggested a willingness to provide weapons to Ukraine, more than a year after ruling out the possibility of lethal aid.

A key US&nbsp;ally and major producer of artillery ammunition, South Korea has so far tried to avoid antagonising Russia due to its companies operating there and Moscow's influence over North Korea, despite mounting pressure from western countries for weapons supply.

"I believe there won't be limitations to the extent of the support to defend and restore a country that's been illegally invaded both under international and domestic law,"&nbsp;Yoon&nbsp;said. "However, considering our relationship with the parties engaged in the war and developments in the battlefield, we will take the most appropriate measures."

Yoon&nbsp;is scheduled to visit Washington next week for a summit with US&nbsp;President Joe Biden to mark&nbsp;the 70th anniversary of&nbsp;the two countries' alliance.

During the summit,&nbsp;Yoon&nbsp;said he will seek "tangible outcomes" on the allies' efforts to improve responses to evolving threats from North Korea, which has ramped up military tests, and launched its first solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile last week.

Seoul, for its part, will step up its surveillance, reconnaissance and intelligence analysis capability and develop "ultra-high-performance, high-power weapons" to fend off the North's threats,&nbsp;Yoon&nbsp;said.

"If a nuclear war breaks out between South and North Korea, this is probably not just a problem between the two sides, but the entire Northeast Asia would probably turn to ashes. That has to be stopped," he said.

When asked if the allies would envision an Asian version of NATO's nuclear planning group involving Japan,&nbsp;Yoon&nbsp;said they are focusing on bilateral measures to strengthen information-sharing, joint contingency planning and joint execution of the plans.

In February, South Korea and the US&nbsp;staged table-top exercises simulating a North Korea nuclear attack as part of Seoul's efforts to play a bigger role in Washington's nuclear policy over the North.

"In terms of responding to a powerful nuclear attack, I think stronger measures than what NATO has should be prepared,&nbsp;Yoon&nbsp;said.

"I think there's no big problem if Japan is joining, but since there's been much progress between the US&nbsp;and South Korea, it would be more efficient to create this system ourselves first."

'NO SUMMIT FOR SHOW'

Tension has flared in recent weeks, with the North threatening "more practical and offensive" action over South Korea-US&nbsp;exercises and refusing to answer inter-Korean hotlines.

Yoon&nbsp;said he is open to peace talks but opposes any "surprise" summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to "show off" to voters out of domestic political interests.

He criticised former governments' sudden, uninformed announcements of inter-Korean talks, which he said did little to build trust.

Yoon's predecessor, Moon Jae-in, staked his legacy on improving inter-Korean ties and helped arrange a historic meeting between Kim and then US&nbsp;President Donald Trump in 2018.

Three summits Kim and Moon held in 2018 promised peace and reconciliation but relations have soured and the North conducted unprecedented numbers of weapons tests following a second failed summit between Kim and Trump.

"They used those talks ahead of elections, but ultimately inter-Korean relations were always back to square one,"&nbsp;Yoon&nbsp;said.

Humanitarian aid could open the door for dialogue, and both sides could build on those discussions to move onto more sensitive topics including economy and military, he said.

Yoon's administration proposed COVID-19 relief last year and unveiled plans to provide economic aid in return for nuclear disarmament, but Pyongyang flatly rejected the offers.

"If previous talks had proceeded step by step ... before the leaders met, the inter-Korean relationship would have developed steadily, though at a snail's pace,"&nbsp;Yoon&nbsp;said.

On Sino-US&nbsp;rivalry,&nbsp;Yoon&nbsp;has trodden cautiously, with China being South Korea's largest trade partner, but he has been more vocal over tension in the Taiwan Strait.

Tensions over democratic Taiwan, which China claims as its own, have spiked as Beijing intensifies diplomatic and military pressure to get Taipei to accept Chinese sovereignty.

"After all, these tensions occurred because of the attempts to change the status quo by force, and we together with the international community absolutely oppose such a change,"&nbsp;Yoon&nbsp;said.

"The Taiwan issue is not simply an issue between China and Taiwan but, like the issue of North Korea, it is a global issue."

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South Korea might extend its support for Ukraine beyond humanitarian and economic aid if it comes under a large-scale civilian attack, President Yoon Suk Yeol said, signalling a shift in his stance against arming Ukraine for the first time.

South Korea might extend its support for Ukraine beyond humanitarian and economic aid if it comes under a large-scale civilian attack, President Yoon Suk Yeol said, signalling a shift in his stance against arming Ukraine for the first time. In an interview with Reuters ahead of his state visit to the US next week, Yoon said his government has been exploring how to help defend and rebuild Ukraine, just as South Korea received international assistance during the 1950-53 Korean War. "If there is a situation the international community cannot condone, such as any large-scale attack on civilians, massacre or serious violation of the laws of war, it might be difficult for us to insist only on humanitarian or financial support," Yoon said. It was the first time that Seoul suggested a willingness to provide weapons to Ukraine, more than a year after ruling out the possibility of lethal aid. A key US ally and major producer of artillery ammunition, South Korea has so far tried to avoid antagonising Russia due to its companies operating there and Moscow's influence over North Korea, despite mounting pressure from western countries for weapons supply. "I believe there won't be limitations to the extent of the support to defend and restore a country that's been illegally invaded both under international and domestic law," Yoon said. "However, considering our relationship with the parties engaged in the war and developments in the battlefield, we will take the most appropriate measures." Yoon is scheduled to visit Washington next week for a summit with US President Joe Biden to mark the 70th anniversary of the two countries' alliance. During the summit, Yoon said he will seek "tangible outcomes" on the allies' efforts to improve responses to evolving threats from North Korea, which has ramped up military tests, and launched its first solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile last week. Seoul, for its part, will step up its surveillance, reconnaissance and intelligence analysis capability and develop "ultra-high-performance, high-power weapons" to fend off the North's threats, Yoon said. "If a nuclear war breaks out between South and North Korea, this is probably not just a problem between the two sides, but the entire Northeast Asia would probably turn to ashes. That has to be stopped," he said. When asked if the allies would envision an Asian version of NATO's nuclear planning group involving Japan, Yoon said they are focusing on bilateral measures to strengthen information-sharing, joint contingency planning and joint execution of the plans. In February, South Korea and the US staged table-top exercises simulating a North Korea nuclear attack as part of Seoul's efforts to play a bigger role in Washington's nuclear policy over the North. "In terms of responding to a powerful nuclear attack, I think stronger measures than what NATO has should be prepared, Yoon said. "I think there's no big problem if Japan is joining, but since there's been much progress between the US and South Korea, it would be more efficient to create this system ourselves first." 'NO SUMMIT FOR SHOW' Tension has flared in recent weeks, with the North threatening "more practical and offensive" action over South Korea-US exercises and refusing to answer inter-Korean hotlines. Yoon said he is open to peace talks but opposes any "surprise" summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to "show off" to voters out of domestic political interests. He criticised former governments' sudden, uninformed announcements of inter-Korean talks, which he said did little to build trust. Yoon's predecessor, Moon Jae-in, staked his legacy on improving inter-Korean ties and helped arrange a historic meeting between Kim and then US President Donald Trump in 2018. Three summits Kim and Moon held in 2018 promised peace and reconciliation but relations have soured and the North conducted unprecedented numbers of weapons tests following a second failed summit between Kim and Trump. "They used those talks ahead of elections, but ultimately inter-Korean relations were always back to square one," Yoon said. Humanitarian aid could open the door for dialogue, and both sides could build on those discussions to move onto more sensitive topics including economy and military, he said. Yoon's administration proposed COVID-19 relief last year and unveiled plans to provide economic aid in return for nuclear disarmament, but Pyongyang flatly rejected the offers. "If previous talks had proceeded step by step ... before the leaders met, the inter-Korean relationship would have developed steadily, though at a snail's pace," Yoon said. On Sino-US rivalry, Yoon has trodden cautiously, with China being South Korea's largest trade partner, but he has been more vocal over tension in the Taiwan Strait. Tensions over democratic Taiwan, which China claims as its own, have spiked as Beijing intensifies diplomatic and military pressure to get Taipei to accept Chinese sovereignty. "After all, these tensions occurred because of the attempts to change the status quo by force, and we together with the international community absolutely oppose such a change," Yoon said. "The Taiwan issue is not simply an issue between China and Taiwan but, like the issue of North Korea, it is a global issue." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Korea's Yoon opens door for possible military aid to Ukraine