<p>As Ukraine is all set to mark one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte landed in Kyiv on Friday to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;Netherlands prime minister is accompanied by Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation of the Netherlands, Liesje Schreinemacher.&nbsp;Rutte on Friday morning visited the Wall of Memory in Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital and laid a wreath to honour the fallen defenders of Ukraine.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/the-real-reason-why-microsoft-backed-openai-developing-customizable-chatgpt-563016">The real reason why Microsoft-backed OpenAI developing customisable ChatGPT</a></p>

<p>This is the second time the prime minister is visiting Ukraine, the last being in July last year when&nbsp;he visited Borodjanka, Boetsja, and Irpin, a suburb of Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a joint conference with Rutte in Kyiv, Zelenskyy said that Ukraine has a "common understanding with the Netherlands that there should not be any taboo on the supply and support of weapons to our army, to our Ukraine, because it supports and protects our sovereignty."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this month, some members of the Dutch Parliament visited the Ukrainian capital where they discussed the security situation with the government officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-poland-belarusian-president-invites-biden-to-minsk-instead-to-end-the-war-563028">'Why Poland?': Belarusian president invites Biden to Minsk instead, to 'end the war'</a></p>

<p>Netherlands Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren, in a statement last month, pledged cooperation with the US and Germany to support Ukraine with the Patriot defence system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-rocket-boosters-fail-to-fire-resulting-in-cancellation-of-launch-562993">Japan: Rocket boosters fail to fire, resulting in cancellation of launch</a></p>

<p>He also added that a total of 65 Dutch soldiers will train Ukrainian soldiers on the system. The defence support to Ukraine was also vowed by Dutch PM Rutte at the time when he met US President Joe Biden at White House last month.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


As Ukraine is all set to mark one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte landed in Kyiv on Friday to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

As Ukraine is all set to mark one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte landed in Kyiv on Friday to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Netherlands prime minister is accompanied by Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation of the Netherlands, Liesje Schreinemacher. Rutte on Friday morning visited the Wall of Memory in Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital and laid a wreath to honour the fallen defenders of Ukraine. Also Read | The real reason why Microsoft-backed OpenAI developing customisable ChatGPT This is the second time the prime minister is visiting Ukraine, the last being in July last year when he visited Borodjanka, Boetsja, and Irpin, a suburb of Kyiv. In a joint conference with Rutte in Kyiv, Zelenskyy said that Ukraine has a "common understanding with the Netherlands that there should not be any taboo on the supply and support of weapons to our army, to our Ukraine, because it supports and protects our sovereignty." Earlier this month, some members of the Dutch Parliament visited the Ukrainian capital where they discussed the security situation with the government officials. Also Read | 'Why Poland?': Belarusian president invites Biden to Minsk instead, to 'end the war' Netherlands Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren, in a statement last month, pledged cooperation with the US and Germany to support Ukraine with the Patriot defence system. Watch | Japan: Rocket boosters fail to fire, resulting in cancellation of launch He also added that a total of 65 Dutch soldiers will train Ukrainian soldiers on the system. The defence support to Ukraine was also vowed by Dutch PM Rutte at the time when he met US President Joe Biden at White House last month. 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.

Dutch PM visits Kyiv, meets Zelensky as Russia-Ukraine war nears one-year mark

<p>The increasing cost-of-living pressure because of the Ukraine war could push an additional 141 million people into extreme poverty, a study published on Thursday (February 16) in the British scientific journal Nature has highlighted. The global energy crisis worsened after Russia launched a full-scale invasion in February 2022, it further underlines, stressing that continued high reliance on fossil fuels and the severe mismatch between energy demand and supply were among the other factors that contributed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Russia being a major exporter of oil (12.3 per cent of global supply in 2021) and natural gas (23.6 per cent), European nations dependent on oil and natural gas imports from the country, already at high risk since gas storages were nearly and probably deliberately emptied before the war, face unprecedented fuel supply shortages, according to the study by the Birmingham University. Many economies have been pushed into recession, it further points out, and inflation has been triggered due to the energy crisis.</p>

<p>Even as several governments have brought in measures to subsidise soaring energy bills for households, these might be insufficient in view of the scale of the problem, researchers said. The surge in direct energy costs of households in 116 countries range from 51.1 per cent to 176.1 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Referring to the World Bank’s latest international poverty line (US$2.15 in 2017 purchasing power parity (PPP) per person per day, updated in September 2022), we estimated that an additional 78 million–141 million people (1.2–2.1 percent of the global population) could be pushed into extreme poverty," the report reads. "Our results are 5–48% larger than the estimates from the World Bank (75 million–95 million compared with pre-crisis projections)," it adds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The increasing cost-of-living pressure because of the Ukraine war could push an additional 141 million people into extreme poverty, a study published on Thursday (February 16) in the British scientific journal Nature has highlighted.

The increasing cost-of-living pressure because of the Ukraine war could push an additional 141 million people into extreme poverty, a study published on Thursday (February 16) in the British scientific journal Nature has highlighted. The global energy crisis worsened after Russia launched a full-scale invasion in February 2022, it further underlines, stressing that continued high reliance on fossil fuels and the severe mismatch between energy demand and supply were among the other factors that contributed. With Russia being a major exporter of oil (12.3 per cent of global supply in 2021) and natural gas (23.6 per cent), European nations dependent on oil and natural gas imports from the country, already at high risk since gas storages were nearly and probably deliberately emptied before the war, face unprecedented fuel supply shortages, according to the study by the Birmingham University. Many economies have been pushed into recession, it further points out, and inflation has been triggered due to the energy crisis. Even as several governments have brought in measures to subsidise soaring energy bills for households, these might be insufficient in view of the scale of the problem, researchers said. The surge in direct energy costs of households in 116 countries range from 51.1 per cent to 176.1 per cent. "Referring to the World Bank’s latest international poverty line (US$2.15 in 2017 purchasing power parity (PPP) per person per day, updated in September 2022), we estimated that an additional 78 million–141 million people (1.2–2.1 percent of the global population) could be pushed into extreme poverty," the report reads. "Our results are 5–48% larger than the estimates from the World Bank (75 million–95 million compared with pre-crisis projections)," it adds. 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 putting 141 million globally at risk of extreme poverty: Study 

<p>US President Joe Biden is scheduled to visit Poland from February 20-22 to mark the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. However, Belarus wants Biden to be in Minsk instead as the country's President Aleksandr Lukashenko, who is a staunch supporter of Russian President Vladimir Putin, wants to "end the war".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lukashenko has extended an invitation to Biden to visit Minsk and expressed his willingness to mediate between Russia and US.&nbsp;Speaking to the media, Lukashenko said, "Why is Biden going to Poland?”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/the-real-reason-why-microsoft-backed-openai-developing-customizable-chatgpt-563016">The real reason why Microsoft-backed OpenAI developing customisable ChatGPT</a></p>

<p>He reportedly asked why Biden has decided to go to Poland and&nbsp;said&nbsp;Belarus is "willing to host him in Minsk". Lukashenko said that he is ready to have a "serious conversation" with Biden and Putin if US "wants peace in Ukraine".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Belarusian president revealed that he is "ready to hold a joint meeting with Vladimir Putin and Joe Biden".<br />
<br />
"Even Putin will fly over to Minsk for the trilateral meeting: two ‘aggressors’ and a ‘peace loving’ president. Why not? For the sake of ending the war. If he wants to stop the war," he reportedly said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that if Biden is to visit Poland, he can also visit Minsk as it is not too far away.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/portugal-announces-to-end-golden-visa-downsizes-airbnb-rentals-to-address-local-housing-crises-562999">Portugal announces to end Golden Visa, downsizes Airbnb rentals to address local housing crises</a></p>

<p>"Poland is nearby, I will send a plane, if anything, a Boeing for him, and we will host him. We have international airports. His Air Force One can land here. Clinton visited us once. Here, in your presence, the three of us... I guarantee you that Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin will come... will sit down and solve the problem. We will be able to solve all the issues here."</p>

<p>It is pertinent to note that Belarus helped Russia earlier by letting Moscow's troops to Ukraine through its 1,000-kilometre Ukrainian-Belarusian border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-rocket-boosters-fail-to-fire-resulting-in-cancellation-of-launch-562993">Japan: Rocket boosters fail to fire, resulting in cancellation of launch</a></p>

<p>Minsk has also claimed on several occasions that Ukrainian drones have entered Belarus however, there is no evidence to date to substantiate these claims. In the latest, Belarus said that the country would in "no way" send its troops into Ukraine unless it is attacked.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


US President Joe Biden is scheduled to visit Poland from February 20-22 to mark the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. However, Belarus wants Biden to be in Minsk instead as the country's President Aleksandr Lukashenko, who is a staunch supporter of Russian President Vladimir Putin, wants to "end the war".

US President Joe Biden is scheduled to visit Poland from February 20-22 to mark the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. However, Belarus wants Biden to be in Minsk instead as the country's President Aleksandr Lukashenko, who is a staunch supporter of Russian President Vladimir Putin, wants to "end the war". Lukashenko has extended an invitation to Biden to visit Minsk and expressed his willingness to mediate between Russia and US. Speaking to the media, Lukashenko said, "Why is Biden going to Poland?” Also Read | The real reason why Microsoft-backed OpenAI developing customisable ChatGPT He reportedly asked why Biden has decided to go to Poland and said Belarus is "willing to host him in Minsk". Lukashenko said that he is ready to have a "serious conversation" with Biden and Putin if US "wants peace in Ukraine". The Belarusian president revealed that he is "ready to hold a joint meeting with Vladimir Putin and Joe Biden". "Even Putin will fly over to Minsk for the trilateral meeting: two ‘aggressors’ and a ‘peace loving’ president. Why not? For the sake of ending the war. If he wants to stop the war," he reportedly said. He said that if Biden is to visit Poland, he can also visit Minsk as it is not too far away. Also Read | Portugal announces to end Golden Visa, downsizes Airbnb rentals to address local housing crises "Poland is nearby, I will send a plane, if anything, a Boeing for him, and we will host him. We have international airports. His Air Force One can land here. Clinton visited us once. Here, in your presence, the three of us... I guarantee you that Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin will come... will sit down and solve the problem. We will be able to solve all the issues here." It is pertinent to note that Belarus helped Russia earlier by letting Moscow's troops to Ukraine through its 1,000-kilometre Ukrainian-Belarusian border. Watch | Japan: Rocket boosters fail to fire, resulting in cancellation of launch Minsk has also claimed on several occasions that Ukrainian drones have entered Belarus however, there is no evidence to date to substantiate these claims. In the latest, Belarus said that the country would in "no way" send its troops into Ukraine unless it is attacked. 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.

Why is Biden going to Poland, should come to Minsk to ‘end the war’: Belarusian president

<p>In the most high-level visit from Israel ever since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen visited Kyiv and met with his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba. Cohen is also expected to hold a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who recently finished off his Europe visit with hopes to receive jets to fend off Russia from its territory.&nbsp;The Israeli FM kicked off his visit from Bucha.<br />
<br />
Bucha, a Kyiv suburb, became the centre of international attention last year when hundreds of slaughtered bodies were found in a mass grave there. Zelensky had termed it a "genocide" and a "most terrible war crime". Many drew comparisons of Bucha's mass graves with the atrocities killings in World War II.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/munich-security-conference-to-kick-off-tomorrow-what-issues-to-take-center-stage-562574">Munich Security Conference to kick off tomorrow: what issues will take centre stage?</a></p>

<p>After visiting Bucha, he said, "We cannot remain indifferent to these difficult images and to the stories of atrocities which I heard here. Israel condemns any intentional attack on innocent people."&nbsp;The Israeli Foreign Minister visited Ukraine after wrapping up his Turkey visit. Cohen left Turkey for Poland from where he took an overnight train along with his delegation from the Polish border city of Przemysl to Kyiv.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It was good meeting with my colleague Ukrainian Foreign Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/DmytroKuleba?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DmytroKuleba</a>. I informed him about the continuation of our aid to Ukraine, and about our intention to support the Ukrainian peace initiative at the United Nations. &gt;&gt; <a href="https://t.co/12dP0vYXyt">pic.twitter.com/12dP0vYXyt</a></p>
— אלי כהן | Eli Cohen (@elicoh1) <a href="https://twitter.com/elicoh1/status/1626231518183194624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>As per media reports, details of Cohen's trip were not disclosed citing security reasons. The visit only came to the fore once the Israeli foreign minister arrived in Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/war-a-military-failure-for-russia-ukraines-tank-count-rising-think-tank-562597">War a military failure for Russia, Ukraine's tank count rising: Think tank</a></p>

<p>"I came to say: Israel stands by Ukraine and by the Ukrainian people in their difficult time," Cohen tweeted. In a statement, Cohen said the Israeli embassy in Kyiv "will return to continuous activity, with the aim of strengthening relations between the countries."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, in a press conference with Kuleba, Cohen said, “Israel stands firmly in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and remains committed to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tesla-to-share-charging-network-3500-chargers-for-non-tesla-customers-562566">Tesla to share charging network, 3,500 chargers for non-Tesla customers</a></p>

<p>Israeli has been treading cautiously when it comes to taking sides. The country has maintained neutrality. Initially, Israel sent humanitarian aid to Ukraine, however, it stopped short of providing any military support to Kyiv in its fight against Moscow.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


In the most high-level visit from Israel ever since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen visited Kyiv and met with his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba.

In the most high-level visit from Israel ever since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen visited Kyiv and met with his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba. Cohen is also expected to hold a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who recently finished off his Europe visit with hopes to receive jets to fend off Russia from its territory. The Israeli FM kicked off his visit from Bucha. Bucha, a Kyiv suburb, became the centre of international attention last year when hundreds of slaughtered bodies were found in a mass grave there. Zelensky had termed it a "genocide" and a "most terrible war crime". Many drew comparisons of Bucha's mass graves with the atrocities killings in World War II. Also Read | Munich Security Conference to kick off tomorrow: what issues will take centre stage? After visiting Bucha, he said, "We cannot remain indifferent to these difficult images and to the stories of atrocities which I heard here. Israel condemns any intentional attack on innocent people." The Israeli Foreign Minister visited Ukraine after wrapping up his Turkey visit. Cohen left Turkey for Poland from where he took an overnight train along with his delegation from the Polish border city of Przemysl to Kyiv. It was good meeting with my colleague Ukrainian Foreign Minister @DmytroKuleba. I informed him about the continuation of our aid to Ukraine, and about our intention to support the Ukrainian peace initiative at the United Nations. >> pic.twitter.com/12dP0vYXyt — אלי כהן | Eli Cohen (@elicoh1) February 16, 2023 × As per media reports, details of Cohen's trip were not disclosed citing security reasons. The visit only came to the fore once the Israeli foreign minister arrived in Kyiv. Also Read | War a military failure for Russia, Ukraine's tank count rising: Think tank "I came to say: Israel stands by Ukraine and by the Ukrainian people in their difficult time," Cohen tweeted. In a statement, Cohen said the Israeli embassy in Kyiv "will return to continuous activity, with the aim of strengthening relations between the countries." Later, in a press conference with Kuleba, Cohen said, “Israel stands firmly in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and remains committed to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine." Watch | Tesla to share charging network, 3,500 chargers for non-Tesla customers Israeli has been treading cautiously when it comes to taking sides. The country has maintained neutrality. Initially, Israel sent humanitarian aid to Ukraine, however, it stopped short of providing any military support to Kyiv in its fight against Moscow. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

In a first since war began, Israeli FM Eli Cohen visits Kyiv, meets Kuleba amid military aid pressure

<p>A large network of camps being operated by the federal government in Russia has held at least 6,000 children from the war-ravaged Ukraine, a study by Yale University's Humanitarian Research Lab (HRL) has revealed. At least 43 such facilities and their locations have been identified, as per the findings. ‘Re-education,’ an effort to ostensibly make children more pro-Russia in their personal and political views, has been counted among the purposes of the network. &nbsp;The facilities have been located in Crimea, and mainland Russia apart from installations found in Siberia and along Russia’s far eastern Pacific coast.</p>

<p>The transport of the kids started before Moscow launched a full-scale invasion in February last year. "These first transports of children in early February 2022 included a group of 500 purported orphans ‘evacuated’ from Donetsk oblast by Russia," the report states. These efforts were linked to the apparent threat of an offensive by the Ukrainian armed forces in the rebel-dominated regions of Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR) and Luhansk People’s Republic (LPR).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The children are believed to be staying in the state-operated facilities over the past year. Segmented into four categories, children deemed orphans, those who were under the care of the Ukrainian state institutions before the war began, whose custody is unclear amid the conflict, and those who have clear familial guardianship are found to be staying in these facilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While those who have clear guardianship have been targeted for "re-education", children - deemed orphans - have been targeted for&nbsp;<br />
"deportation to the Russian territory or for adoption or foster care", the study claims. "At least 32 (78 per cent) of the camps identified by Yale HRL appear engaged in systematic re-education efforts that expose children from Ukraine to Russia-centric academic, cultural, patriotic, and/or military education," the HRL study underlines. &nbsp;"Multiple camps endorsed by the Russian Federation are advertised as 'integration programs', &nbsp;with the apparent goal of integrating children from Ukraine into the Russian government’s vision of national culture, history, and society," it further stresses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 10 per cent of these camps, the return of children to Ukraine was allegedly delayed. Some parents have been reported as saying that they were unable to get information about their children.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-provide-military-supplies-to-ukraine-via-german-port-report-561123">Pakistan to provide military supplies to Ukraine via German port, says report</a></p>

<p>The program involves every level of the Russian government, according to the Yale investigation, which stresses that &nbsp;"dozens of federal, regional, and local figures (are) directly engaged in operating and politically justifying the program". &nbsp;Medical care of the children in the war-torn country has also been cited as one of the reasons for the transport.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Giving (Ukraine’s children Russian) nationality or having them adopted goes against the fundamental principles of child protection in situations of war. This is something that is happening in Russia and must not happen," Filippo Grande, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, &nbsp;</p>

<p>The issue was raised last year by officials at the United Nations. In June, the former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, told the Security Council that the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) was investigating alleged plans for the forcible deportation of Ukraine’s children to Russia, “which do not appear to include steps for<br />
family reunification".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


A large network of camps being operated by the federal government in Russia has held at least 6,000 children from the war-ravaged Ukraine, a study by Yale University's Humanitarian Research Lab (HRL) has revealed.

A large network of camps being operated by the federal government in Russia has held at least 6,000 children from the war-ravaged Ukraine, a study by Yale University's Humanitarian Research Lab (HRL) has revealed. At least 43 such facilities and their locations have been identified, as per the findings. ‘Re-education,’ an effort to ostensibly make children more pro-Russia in their personal and political views, has been counted among the purposes of the network. The facilities have been located in Crimea, and mainland Russia apart from installations found in Siberia and along Russia’s far eastern Pacific coast. The transport of the kids started before Moscow launched a full-scale invasion in February last year. "These first transports of children in early February 2022 included a group of 500 purported orphans ‘evacuated’ from Donetsk oblast by Russia," the report states. These efforts were linked to the apparent threat of an offensive by the Ukrainian armed forces in the rebel-dominated regions of Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR) and Luhansk People’s Republic (LPR). The children are believed to be staying in the state-operated facilities over the past year. Segmented into four categories, children deemed orphans, those who were under the care of the Ukrainian state institutions before the war began, whose custody is unclear amid the conflict, and those who have clear familial guardianship are found to be staying in these facilities. While those who have clear guardianship have been targeted for "re-education", children - deemed orphans - have been targeted for "deportation to the Russian territory or for adoption or foster care", the study claims. "At least 32 (78 per cent) of the camps identified by Yale HRL appear engaged in systematic re-education efforts that expose children from Ukraine to Russia-centric academic, cultural, patriotic, and/or military education," the HRL study underlines. "Multiple camps endorsed by the Russian Federation are advertised as 'integration programs', with the apparent goal of integrating children from Ukraine into the Russian government’s vision of national culture, history, and society," it further stresses. In 10 per cent of these camps, the return of children to Ukraine was allegedly delayed. Some parents have been reported as saying that they were unable to get information about their children. Also read: Pakistan to provide military supplies to Ukraine via German port, says report The program involves every level of the Russian government, according to the Yale investigation, which stresses that "dozens of federal, regional, and local figures (are) directly engaged in operating and politically justifying the program". Medical care of the children in the war-torn country has also been cited as one of the reasons for the transport. “Giving (Ukraine’s children Russian) nationality or having them adopted goes against the fundamental principles of child protection in situations of war. This is something that is happening in Russia and must not happen," Filippo Grande, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, The issue was raised last year by officials at the United Nations. In June, the former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, told the Security Council that the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) was investigating alleged plans for the forcible deportation of Ukraine’s children to Russia, “which do not appear to include steps for family reunification". 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.

Thousands of Ukrainian children held in Russia targeted for 're-education': Yale study

<p>In a video shared on social media, Russian President Vladimir Putin is seen sternly scolding an official for implying that Russia isn't the world's best country, during a recent meeting.&nbsp; Head of the Kremlin's Agency for Strategic Initiatives (ASI) Robert Urazov claimed that other countries were "the best in the world."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Responding to this, Vladimir Putin said, "As you were speaking just now, you said this phrase: 'In other countries, the best in the world. And you went on. So the best country in the world is Russia. I hope you simply misspoke."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-missiles-hit-ukraines-power-facilities-escalates-offensive-in-east-560819">Russian missiles hit Ukraine's power facilities, as offensive escalates in east</a></p>

<p>Adviser to the Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine Anton Gerashchenko shared the video on the social media platform. Before the video ends, Urazov is seen nervously smiling.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"The best country in the world is Russia" - Putin <a href="https://t.co/sectCZoXOE">pic.twitter.com/sectCZoXOE</a></p>
— Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gerashchenko_en/status/1623800018862735362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Earlier, Kremlin said that the meeting, which was chaired by Putin, was aimed at establishing a stronger domestic market which will benefit Russian companies, reported Newsweek.</p>

<p>In the meeting, Putin tried to dissuade the companies from leaving the nation because of sanctions being imposed by the West after the Ukraine invasion and said that the companies were not willing to leave, but had to do so because of pressure from their respective governments, reported Newsweek quoting statement of Kremlin.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Gravitas | Putin's Girlfriend: Russian media a weapon of war</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-putins-girlfriend-russian-media-a-weapon-of-war-559764/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“Perhaps some people thought that all this would collapse and fall apart in our hands. But nothing like this is happening—nothing has collapsed and nothing is falling apart. Our companies, our businesspeople are picking up these companies or even branches and continuing the&nbsp;work with success,” Vladimir Putin stated.</p>

<p>"Naturally, we should be striving for this because being limited to the domestic market is not the best scenario," the Russian president added, according to the statement.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


In a video shared on social media, Russian President Vladimir Putin is seen sternly scolding an official for implying that Russia isn't the world's best country, during a recent meeting.

In a video shared on social media, Russian President Vladimir Putin is seen sternly scolding an official for implying that Russia isn't the world's best country, during a recent meeting. Head of the Kremlin's Agency for Strategic Initiatives (ASI) Robert Urazov claimed that other countries were "the best in the world." Responding to this, Vladimir Putin said, "As you were speaking just now, you said this phrase: 'In other countries, the best in the world. And you went on. So the best country in the world is Russia. I hope you simply misspoke." ALSO READ | Russian missiles hit Ukraine's power facilities, as offensive escalates in east Adviser to the Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine Anton Gerashchenko shared the video on the social media platform. Before the video ends, Urazov is seen nervously smiling. "The best country in the world is Russia" - Putin pic.twitter.com/sectCZoXOE — Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) February 9, 2023 × Earlier, Kremlin said that the meeting, which was chaired by Putin, was aimed at establishing a stronger domestic market which will benefit Russian companies, reported Newsweek. In the meeting, Putin tried to dissuade the companies from leaving the nation because of sanctions being imposed by the West after the Ukraine invasion and said that the companies were not willing to leave, but had to do so because of pressure from their respective governments, reported Newsweek quoting statement of Kremlin. WATCH | Gravitas | Putin's Girlfriend: Russian media a weapon of war “Perhaps some people thought that all this would collapse and fall apart in our hands. But nothing like this is happening—nothing has collapsed and nothing is falling apart. Our companies, our businesspeople are picking up these companies or even branches and continuing the work with success,” Vladimir Putin stated. "Naturally, we should be striving for this because being limited to the domestic market is not the best scenario," the Russian president added, according to the statement. (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

WATCH | ‘You simply misspoke’: Vladimir Putin scolds official for saying Russia not best country

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked a senior security figure on Saturday (February 11), stating that his drive to clean up the government would continue.&nbsp;Amid the ongoing war, Ukrainian authorities have dismissed dozens of officials in recent weeks and investigations have also been opened in several cases as part of a widespread drive against corruption and wrongdoing.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a brief decree issued by the presidential office, Zelensky dismissed Ruslan Dziuba as deputy commander of the National Guard. However, the Ukrainian president didn't give any reasons for the action.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On one side, Zelensky has lobbied allies to supply modern weapons to tackle Russian forces, and on the other, he has stressed the need for the defence ministry in particular to be cleaned up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He did not specifically mention Dziuba in his daily video address, but it can be seen as a move towards realising his aim to join the European Union as the EU says addressing corruption is a requirement for Ukraine to join the 27-member bloc.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Referring to the crackdown, he said: "All this activity is not just about certain episodes or criminal proceedings...the state will continue to modernise the institutions themselves. The purity of the work of state structures must be guaranteed."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia's progress MS-21 Cargo ship faces depressurization&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russias-progress-ms-21-cargo-ship-faces-depressurisation-561097/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Meanwhile, Kyiv's top military commander said on Saturday that Ukraine's forces hold defence along the frontline in Donetsk, including the town of Bakhmut. In the past few weeks, fighting has been raging on for the cities of Vuhledar and Maryinka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, who is the commander-in-chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces, said Russia carries out some 50 attacks daily in Donetsk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a Telegram message, Zaluzhnyi said: "Fierce fighting continues in the area of Vuhledar and Maryinka. We reliably hold the defence. In some areas of the front, we have managed to regain previously lost positions and gained a foothold."&nbsp;</p>

<p>His comments came after a call with US General Mark Milley.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked a senior security figure on Saturday (February 11), stating that his drive to clean up the government would continue.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked a senior security figure on Saturday (February 11), stating that his drive to clean up the government would continue. Amid the ongoing war, Ukrainian authorities have dismissed dozens of officials in recent weeks and investigations have also been opened in several cases as part of a widespread drive against corruption and wrongdoing. According to a brief decree issued by the presidential office, Zelensky dismissed Ruslan Dziuba as deputy commander of the National Guard. However, the Ukrainian president didn't give any reasons for the action. On one side, Zelensky has lobbied allies to supply modern weapons to tackle Russian forces, and on the other, he has stressed the need for the defence ministry in particular to be cleaned up. He did not specifically mention Dziuba in his daily video address, but it can be seen as a move towards realising his aim to join the European Union as the EU says addressing corruption is a requirement for Ukraine to join the 27-member bloc. Referring to the crackdown, he said: "All this activity is not just about certain episodes or criminal proceedings...the state will continue to modernise the institutions themselves. The purity of the work of state structures must be guaranteed." WATCH | Russia's progress MS-21 Cargo ship faces depressurization × Meanwhile, Kyiv's top military commander said on Saturday that Ukraine's forces hold defence along the frontline in Donetsk, including the town of Bakhmut. In the past few weeks, fighting has been raging on for the cities of Vuhledar and Maryinka. Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, who is the commander-in-chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces, said Russia carries out some 50 attacks daily in Donetsk. In a Telegram message, Zaluzhnyi said: "Fierce fighting continues in the area of Vuhledar and Maryinka. We reliably hold the defence. In some areas of the front, we have managed to regain previously lost positions and gained a foothold." His comments came after a call with US General Mark Milley. (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 sacks top official as the clean-up drive continues amid war

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p>The power facilities in Ukraine were hit by Russian missiles on Friday as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky returned after completing a tour of Western capitals and Ukrainian officials confirmed that the Russian offensive was underway in the east and had escalated.</p>

<p>The armed forces of Ukraine said that more than 100 missiles were fired by the Russian forces throughout the country and 12 air attacks and 20 shelling attacks had taken place.</p>

<p>Ukraine's Energy Minister German Galushchenko said that the power facilities were hit by Russian drones and missiles launched in six regions, which led to blackouts across most of the country.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-russian-missiles-entered-romanian-airspace-romania-denies-560667">Ukraine claims Russian missiles entered Romanian airspace, Romania denies</a></p>

<p><strong>Biden's visit to Poland</strong></p>

<p>The White House has announced that US President Joe Biden will be visiting Poland from February 20 to 22 to show his support for Ukraine before the first anniversary of its invasion by Russia on February 24 and will speak about additional security assistance and aid to be extended by the United States.</p>

<p>The White House National Security Council's spokesperson John Kirby said, “The president will make it very clear that the United States will continue to stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.”</p>

<p><strong>IMF to hold talks with Ukrainian officials</strong></p>

<p>The staff of International Monetary Fund staff will hold talks with Ukrainian officials next week in Warsaw, reports suggested on Friday, as Ukraine is demanding a multi-billion dollar borrowing programme to meet its expenses in the wake of war with Russia.</p>

<p>The sovereign rating of Ukraine was downgraded to Ca by the global ratings agency Moody's on Friday, as it predicted long-lasting challenges for the nation as the war continues.</p>

<p>As per Moody's website, the rating reflects that debt obligations are "likely in, or very near, default."</p>

<p><strong>Civilian infrastructure under attack </strong></p>

<p>The latest attacks were launched by Russia as Zelensky completed his tour of European allies.</p>

<p>"London, Paris, Brussels - everywhere I spoke these past few days about how to strengthen our soldiers. There are very important understandings and we received good signals. This concerns long-range missiles and tanks and the next level of our co-operation — fighter aircraft,” he stated in his nightly video address.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Russian missiles hit energy sites across Ukraine</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-missiles-hit-energy-sites-across-ukraine-560780/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said that Russia shot down 10 missiles over the capital as sirens blared in the morning hours and civilians took shelter.</p>

<p>Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said that the country was without 75 per cent of thermal power and 44 per cent of nuclear generation capacity.</p>

<p>"This is a deliberate targeting of infrastructure that keeps Ukrainians alive in winter," said US State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. The power facilities in Ukraine were hit by Russian missiles on Friday as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky returned after completing a tour of Western capitals and Ukrainian officials confirmed that the Russian offensive was underway in the east and had escalated. The armed forces of Ukraine said that more than 100 missiles were fired by the Russian forces throughout the country and 12 air attacks and 20 shelling attacks had taken place. Ukraine's Energy Minister German Galushchenko said that the power facilities were hit by Russian drones and missiles launched in six regions, which led to blackouts across most of the country. ALSO READ | Ukraine claims Russian missiles entered Romanian airspace, Romania denies Biden's visit to Poland The White House has announced that US President Joe Biden will be visiting Poland from February 20 to 22 to show his support for Ukraine before the first anniversary of its invasion by Russia on February 24 and will speak about additional security assistance and aid to be extended by the United States. The White House National Security Council's spokesperson John Kirby said, “The president will make it very clear that the United States will continue to stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.” IMF to hold talks with Ukrainian officials The staff of International Monetary Fund staff will hold talks with Ukrainian officials next week in Warsaw, reports suggested on Friday, as Ukraine is demanding a multi-billion dollar borrowing programme to meet its expenses in the wake of war with Russia. The sovereign rating of Ukraine was downgraded to Ca by the global ratings agency Moody's on Friday, as it predicted long-lasting challenges for the nation as the war continues. As per Moody's website, the rating reflects that debt obligations are "likely in, or very near, default." Civilian infrastructure under attack The latest attacks were launched by Russia as Zelensky completed his tour of European allies. "London, Paris, Brussels - everywhere I spoke these past few days about how to strengthen our soldiers. There are very important understandings and we received good signals. This concerns long-range missiles and tanks and the next level of our co-operation — fighter aircraft,” he stated in his nightly video address. WATCH | Russian missiles hit energy sites across Ukraine Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said that Russia shot down 10 missiles over the capital as sirens blared in the morning hours and civilians took shelter. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said that the country was without 75 per cent of thermal power and 44 per cent of nuclear generation capacity. "This is a deliberate targeting of infrastructure that keeps Ukrainians alive in winter," said US State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel. (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

Russian missiles hit Ukraine's power facilities, as offensive escalates in east

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made some strong points as he addressed the European Union leaders and the European Parliament in Brussels on Thursday (February 9). Zelensky said that&nbsp;Europe wouldn't be free without a free Ukraine as he urged allies to accelerate the promised delivery of modern long-range weapons.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian president is on a rare visit, only his second foreign trip since Russia's full-scale invasion started last year in February, causing food and fuel crises globally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky was in London on Wednesday where he met United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and British monarch King Charles III and also addressed the nation's parliament. After that, he went to Paris.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian president lobbied the allies in Europe to provide modern fighter jets and long-range missiles. Zelensky then flew to Brussels to address EU leaders and the European parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spacex-prevents-ukraine-from-using-starlink-internet-for-controlling-drones-560371">SpaceX prevents Ukraine from using Starlink internet for controlling drones</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Zelensky told MEPs, "We are defending against the most anti-European force of the modern world -- we are defending ourselves, we Ukrainians on the battlefield, along with you."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky received a standing ovation during the parliamentary address and after that, he joined the 27 leaders of the EU member states as the special guest at their regular summit, where he made an opening address.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have to thank you personally for your unwavering support of our country and our aspirations, our aspirations to live in a united, free Europe," he told them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia: US should pay compensation to countries affected&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-us-should-pay-compensation-to-countries-affected-560404/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>He again said that Ukraine needs artillery, munitions, modern tanks, long-range missiles and fighter jets "faster than the aggressor" can prepare what he said would be a dangerous new offensive.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky said after the meeting that "there are positive signals, concerning the respective weapons. I really want these signals to move to concrete sounds to concrete voice, the voice that is not afraid that Russia will hear."&nbsp;</p>

<h2 data-qa-component="item-headline" dir="auto" title="EU's Michel: We need to provide maximum support for Ukraine"><strong>'Provide maximum support for Ukraine'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, European Council President Charles Michel told reporters that the EU must continue to provide maximum support to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Michel said during a joint press conference with Zelensky and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen: "We consider that the coming weeks and months will probably be decisive... It’s not the time to tremble. It’s time to remain rational and time to deploy maximum support."&nbsp;</p>

<h2>'Ukraine should become an EU member'</h2>

<p>Zelensky said&nbsp;Ukraine should become an EU member, arguing the bloc wouldn't be whole without his country being its integral part.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Michel told Zelensky that he would first need to have all member states agree to it when he told the news conference that "when I say this year I mean this year, 2023".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Michel stressed that "the road to peace, reconstruction and membership will be a long, hard road," before adding: "We'll be with you every step of the way."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made some strong points as he addressed the European Union leaders and the European Parliament in Brussels on Thursday (February 9).

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made some strong points as he addressed the European Union leaders and the European Parliament in Brussels on Thursday (February 9). Zelensky said that Europe wouldn't be free without a free Ukraine as he urged allies to accelerate the promised delivery of modern long-range weapons. The Ukrainian president is on a rare visit, only his second foreign trip since Russia's full-scale invasion started last year in February, causing food and fuel crises globally. Zelensky was in London on Wednesday where he met United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and British monarch King Charles III and also addressed the nation's parliament. After that, he went to Paris. The Ukrainian president lobbied the allies in Europe to provide modern fighter jets and long-range missiles. Zelensky then flew to Brussels to address EU leaders and the European parliament. ALSO READ | SpaceX prevents Ukraine from using Starlink internet for controlling drones Zelensky told MEPs, "We are defending against the most anti-European force of the modern world -- we are defending ourselves, we Ukrainians on the battlefield, along with you." Zelensky received a standing ovation during the parliamentary address and after that, he joined the 27 leaders of the EU member states as the special guest at their regular summit, where he made an opening address. "I have to thank you personally for your unwavering support of our country and our aspirations, our aspirations to live in a united, free Europe," he told them. WATCH | Russia: US should pay compensation to countries affected × He again said that Ukraine needs artillery, munitions, modern tanks, long-range missiles and fighter jets "faster than the aggressor" can prepare what he said would be a dangerous new offensive. Zelensky said after the meeting that "there are positive signals, concerning the respective weapons. I really want these signals to move to concrete sounds to concrete voice, the voice that is not afraid that Russia will hear." 'Provide maximum support for Ukraine' Meanwhile, European Council President Charles Michel told reporters that the EU must continue to provide maximum support to Ukraine. Michel said during a joint press conference with Zelensky and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen: "We consider that the coming weeks and months will probably be decisive... It’s not the time to tremble. It’s time to remain rational and time to deploy maximum support." 'Ukraine should become an EU member' Zelensky said Ukraine should become an EU member, arguing the bloc wouldn't be whole without his country being its integral part. But Michel told Zelensky that he would first need to have all member states agree to it when he told the news conference that "when I say this year I mean this year, 2023". Michel stressed that "the road to peace, reconstruction and membership will be a long, hard road," before adding: "We'll be with you every step of the way." (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.

There's no free Europe without free Ukraine, says Zelensky at EU summit

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the United Kingdom on Wednesday (February 8), days ahead of the Russia-Ukraine war completing a year and&nbsp;repeated the demand for fighter jets to repel the latest Russian advances.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is Zelensky's first visit to London since Russia's invasion of Ukraine started last year on February 24. He hailed Britain as "one of the first" countries to support Ukraine after Russia invaded.&nbsp;Meanwhile, as Sunak joined President Volodymyr Zelensky inspecting crew being trained in southwest England, the UK Prime Minister said that UK Challenger 2 tanks would be deployed in Ukraine next month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky said on social media: "The United Kingdom was one of the first to come to Ukraine's aid. And today I'm in London to personally thank the British people for their support and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for his leadership."</p>

<p>Zelensky was welcomed by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who received him at the airport. After their meeting, the presidency said in a statement the Ukrainian president has "emphasised the importance for Ukraine to receive the necessary weapons from allies to stop the Russian offensive and liberate all temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-air-force-helmet-as-state-gift-to-britain-zelensky-pushes-for-more-fighter-airplanes-560066">With air force helmet as state gift to Britain, Zelensky pushes for more fighter airplanes</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Zelensky also addressed the British parliament and&nbsp;the UK lawmakers applauded his speech. Zelensky thanked the UK for its support and pledged "freedom will win" while addressing members of the lower and upper houses in parliament's Westminster Hall.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the historic address to the British parliament, Zelensky repeated his demand for combat aircraft. He said, "I appeal to you and the world... for combat aircraft for Ukraine, wings for freedom."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "We know freedom will win, we know Russia will lose. The United Kingdom is marching with us towards the most... important victory of our lifetime. It will be a victory over the very idea of the war."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine will get 100 more tanks from Europe&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-will-get-100-more-tanks-from-europe-560055/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Allies have provided Ukraine with advanced weaponry systems to help Ukraine in its fight against Russia. However, Britain has stopped short of offering Kyiv its Typhoon and F-35 fighter jets. UK said that it would require months if not years of training.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides the UK, the United States also rejected any deliveries of F-16 warplanes to Ukraine. Kyiv says it needs the combat jets to help the soldiers fighting on the eastern front.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Zelensky's plea, the UK said it will explore the possibility of sending fighter jets to Ukraine. Sunak's Downing Street office said Wednesday that it would only be a "long-term" solution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The prime minister has tasked the defence secretary with investigating what jets we might be able to give but, to be clear, this is a long-term solution rather than a short-term capability, which is what Ukraine needs most now," Sunak's spokesman said.</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky meets King Charles III</strong></h2>

<p>Zelensky also met the British monarch King Charles III and thanked him for his country's support to&nbsp;Ukrainian refugees during a meeting at Buckingham Palace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am grateful to His Majesty for the warm welcome and for supporting Ukrainian citizens who have taken refuge from the war in the United Kingdom," Zelensky said on Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the United Kingdom on Wednesday (February 8), days ahead of the Russia-Ukraine war completing a year and repeated the demand for fighter jets to repel the latest Russian advances.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the United Kingdom on Wednesday (February 8), days ahead of the Russia-Ukraine war completing a year and repeated the demand for fighter jets to repel the latest Russian advances. This is Zelensky's first visit to London since Russia's invasion of Ukraine started last year on February 24. He hailed Britain as "one of the first" countries to support Ukraine after Russia invaded. Meanwhile, as Sunak joined President Volodymyr Zelensky inspecting crew being trained in southwest England, the UK Prime Minister said that UK Challenger 2 tanks would be deployed in Ukraine next month. Zelensky said on social media: "The United Kingdom was one of the first to come to Ukraine's aid. And today I'm in London to personally thank the British people for their support and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for his leadership." Zelensky was welcomed by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who received him at the airport. After their meeting, the presidency said in a statement the Ukrainian president has "emphasised the importance for Ukraine to receive the necessary weapons from allies to stop the Russian offensive and liberate all temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories". ALSO READ | With air force helmet as state gift to Britain, Zelensky pushes for more fighter airplanes Zelensky also addressed the British parliament and the UK lawmakers applauded his speech. Zelensky thanked the UK for its support and pledged "freedom will win" while addressing members of the lower and upper houses in parliament's Westminster Hall. In the historic address to the British parliament, Zelensky repeated his demand for combat aircraft. He said, "I appeal to you and the world... for combat aircraft for Ukraine, wings for freedom." He added, "We know freedom will win, we know Russia will lose. The United Kingdom is marching with us towards the most... important victory of our lifetime. It will be a victory over the very idea of the war." WATCH | Ukraine will get 100 more tanks from Europe × Allies have provided Ukraine with advanced weaponry systems to help Ukraine in its fight against Russia. However, Britain has stopped short of offering Kyiv its Typhoon and F-35 fighter jets. UK said that it would require months if not years of training. Besides the UK, the United States also rejected any deliveries of F-16 warplanes to Ukraine. Kyiv says it needs the combat jets to help the soldiers fighting on the eastern front. After Zelensky's plea, the UK said it will explore the possibility of sending fighter jets to Ukraine. Sunak's Downing Street office said Wednesday that it would only be a "long-term" solution. "The prime minister has tasked the defence secretary with investigating what jets we might be able to give but, to be clear, this is a long-term solution rather than a short-term capability, which is what Ukraine needs most now," Sunak's spokesman said. Zelensky meets King Charles III Zelensky also met the British monarch King Charles III and thanked him for his country's support to Ukrainian refugees during a meeting at Buckingham Palace. "I am grateful to His Majesty for the warm welcome and for supporting Ukrainian citizens who have taken refuge from the war in the United Kingdom," Zelensky said on Telegram. (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: Zelensky repeats demand for combat jets during his visit to UK

<p>SpaceX has curbed Ukraine's use of Starlink internet devices for controlling drones in the region during the country's war with Russia. The space company's president said on Wednesday that steps have been taken to prevent Ukrainian forces from using the satellite internet service for controlling drones as they don't want it to be used for "offensive purposes".&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Russia launched the invasion last year in February, SpaceX provided Ukraine with thousands of Starlink dishes. These devices help people to link with satellites and stay connected to the internet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service has provided the Ukrainian military with broadband communications during the ongoing war. However, reports emerged that the military had used the Starlink service to control drones.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-italy-pm-meloni-criticises-french-president-macrons-invite-to-zelensky-560335">Ukraine war: Italy PM Meloni criticises French President Macron's invite to Zelensky</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Gwynne Shotwell, who is SpaceX's president and chief operating officer, said during a conference in Washington, DC that it was "never never meant to be weaponised".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shotwell said, "However, Ukrainians have leveraged it in ways that were unintentional and not part of any agreement."&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the Russia-Ukraine war so far, Kyiv used unmanned aircraft effectively. As reported, they used drones for spotting enemy positions, targeting long-range fires and dropping bombs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shotwell said that "there are things that we can do to limit their ability to do that. There are things that we can do, and have done."&nbsp;Shotwell said that the use of Starlink with drones went beyond the scope of an agreement SpaceX has with the Ukrainian government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UK promises to train Ukrainian pilots, Zelensky makes 'wings for freedom' plea</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-promises-to-train-ukrainian-pilots-zelensky-makes-wings-for-freedom-plea-560338/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>She added that the contract was intended for humanitarian purposes such as providing broadband internet to hospitals, banks and families affected by Russia's invasion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She said, "We know the military is using them for comms, and that's ok. But our intent was never to have them use it for offensive purposes."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Choose between Ukraine and Russia'</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, a Ukrainian official said that SpaceX should choose between Ukraine and Russia. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Mykhailo Podolyak, who is a political adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, criticised the decision on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Podolyak wrote, "A year of Ukrainian resistance &amp; companies have to decide: Either they are on the side of Ukraine &amp; the right to freedom, and don’t seek ways to do harm. Or they are on Russia's side &amp; its 'right' to kill &amp; seize territories."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"SpaceX (Starlink) &amp; Mrs. Shotwell should choose a specific option," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


SpaceX has curbed Ukraine's use of Starlink internet devices for controlling drones in the region during the country's war with Russia. The space company's president said on Wednesday that steps have been taken to prevent Ukrainian forces from using the satellite internet service for controlling drones as they don't want it to be used for "offensive purposes".

SpaceX has curbed Ukraine's use of Starlink internet devices for controlling drones in the region during the country's war with Russia. The space company's president said on Wednesday that steps have been taken to prevent Ukrainian forces from using the satellite internet service for controlling drones as they don't want it to be used for "offensive purposes". After Russia launched the invasion last year in February, SpaceX provided Ukraine with thousands of Starlink dishes. These devices help people to link with satellites and stay connected to the internet. SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service has provided the Ukrainian military with broadband communications during the ongoing war. However, reports emerged that the military had used the Starlink service to control drones. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: Italy PM Meloni criticises French President Macron's invite to Zelensky Meanwhile, Gwynne Shotwell, who is SpaceX's president and chief operating officer, said during a conference in Washington, DC that it was "never never meant to be weaponised". Shotwell said, "However, Ukrainians have leveraged it in ways that were unintentional and not part of any agreement." During the Russia-Ukraine war so far, Kyiv used unmanned aircraft effectively. As reported, they used drones for spotting enemy positions, targeting long-range fires and dropping bombs. Shotwell said that "there are things that we can do to limit their ability to do that. There are things that we can do, and have done." Shotwell said that the use of Starlink with drones went beyond the scope of an agreement SpaceX has with the Ukrainian government. WATCH | UK promises to train Ukrainian pilots, Zelensky makes 'wings for freedom' plea × She added that the contract was intended for humanitarian purposes such as providing broadband internet to hospitals, banks and families affected by Russia's invasion. She said, "We know the military is using them for comms, and that's ok. But our intent was never to have them use it for offensive purposes." 'Choose between Ukraine and Russia' Meanwhile, a Ukrainian official said that SpaceX should choose between Ukraine and Russia. Mykhailo Podolyak, who is a political adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, criticised the decision on Twitter. Podolyak wrote, "A year of Ukrainian resistance & companies have to decide: Either they are on the side of Ukraine & the right to freedom, and don’t seek ways to do harm. Or they are on Russia's side & its 'right' to kill & seize territories." "SpaceX (Starlink) & Mrs. Shotwell should choose a specific option," he 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.

SpaceX prevents Ukraine from using Starlink internet for controlling drones

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidekVvndrnPzrS" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p>Russia on Tuesday (February 7) claimed that its forces are advancing with success in eastern Ukraine. As quoted by news agencies, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu issued a warning to the West against increasing arms supplies to Kyiv and stated that the Russian forces were "progressing with success" near the eastern Ukrainian towns of Bakhmut and Vugledar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russia-Ukraine war is escalating with incessant fighting on the eastern front as two towns in the Donetsk region have become the epicentre of hostilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a defence meeting, which Shoigu attended via video call, he said that the "military operations are at the moment progressing with success in the areas around Vugledar and Artemovsk".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-forces-continue-to-attack-eastern-ukraine-new-offensive-by-moscow-possible-in-10-days-says-governor-559542">Russian forces continue to attack eastern Ukraine, new offensive by Moscow possible in 10 days, says governor</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Warning the West, Shoigu said: "The US and its allies are trying to drag out the conflict as long as possible. To do this, they have begun supplying heavy offensive weapons (to Kyiv) and openly calling on Ukraine to seize our territories."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shoigu added that the supply of "heavy offensive weapons" to Ukraine will "draw NATO countries into the conflict and could see it escalate unpredictably."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia- Ukraine war: Battle for eastern Ukraine heats up&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-battle-for-eastern-ukraine-heats-up-559534/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Moscow has warned the West about sending arms to Kyiv, but the West has ramped up the efforts to send military assistance to the war-hit nation. Recently, the Western countries agreed to supply Kyiv with heavy tanks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also urged its allies to send fighter jets and long-range missiles to be able to strike targets deeper inside Russian-controlled territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russia on Tuesday (February 7) claimed that its forces are advancing with success in eastern Ukraine. As quoted by news agencies, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu issued a warning to the West against increasing arms supplies to Kyiv and stated that the Russian forces were "progressing with success" near the eastern Ukrainian towns of Bakhmut and Vugledar. The Russia-Ukraine war is escalating with incessant fighting on the eastern front as two towns in the Donetsk region have become the epicentre of hostilities. During a defence meeting, which Shoigu attended via video call, he said that the "military operations are at the moment progressing with success in the areas around Vugledar and Artemovsk". ALSO READ | Russian forces continue to attack eastern Ukraine, new offensive by Moscow possible in 10 days, says governor Warning the West, Shoigu said: "The US and its allies are trying to drag out the conflict as long as possible. To do this, they have begun supplying heavy offensive weapons (to Kyiv) and openly calling on Ukraine to seize our territories." Shoigu added that the supply of "heavy offensive weapons" to Ukraine will "draw NATO countries into the conflict and could see it escalate unpredictably." WATCH | Russia- Ukraine war: Battle for eastern Ukraine heats up × Moscow has warned the West about sending arms to Kyiv, but the West has ramped up the efforts to send military assistance to the war-hit nation. Recently, the Western countries agreed to supply Kyiv with heavy tanks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also urged its allies to send fighter jets and long-range missiles to be able to strike targets deeper inside Russian-controlled territory. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia claims Moscow's forces 'progressing with success' in east Ukraine

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidfT7qpNQSp4j3" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p>Amid simmering tensions between Washington and Moscow, the Interfax news agency reported that Russia's deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov claimed on Monday that he discussed the New START nuclear arms control treaty with new United States ambassador Lynne Tracy last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The New START treaty is deemed crucial for global peace as it is a nuclear arms reduction treaty between the US and Russia. The treaty aims to have control over nuclear arms in both nations, but it is set to expire in 2026. Experts have raised concerns and urged that the treaty should be revived.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-recruiting-female-prisoners-to-contribute-to-ukraine-war-report-suggests-559149">Russia 'recruiting female prisoners' to contribute to Ukraine war, report claims</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>A few days ago after the US alleged that Moscow is violating the New START nuclear treaty, Russia expressed its interest to preserve its last remaining nuclear treaty with the US, despite calling it a destructive approach by America for controlling arms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ryabkov has now claimed that Russia was committed to the treaty. However, he mentioned that a date had been set for new talks because of the Ukraine conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine defence minister sacked: All about the corruption scandal&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-defence-minister-sacked-all-about-the-corruption-scandal-559378/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters last week that "no matter how sad the situation is at the present time,"&nbsp;it was actually necessary to preserve at least some "hints" of continued dialogue with Washington.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Peskov said that "we consider the continuation of this treaty very important" as he described it as the only one that remained "at least hypothetically viable". He added, "Otherwise, we see that the United States has actually destroyed the legal framework for arms control."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


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. Amid simmering tensions between Washington and Moscow, the Interfax news agency reported that Russia's deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov claimed on Monday that he discussed the New START nuclear arms control treaty with new United States ambassador Lynne Tracy last week. The New START treaty is deemed crucial for global peace as it is a nuclear arms reduction treaty between the US and Russia. The treaty aims to have control over nuclear arms in both nations, but it is set to expire in 2026. Experts have raised concerns and urged that the treaty should be revived. ALSO READ | Russia 'recruiting female prisoners' to contribute to Ukraine war, report claims A few days ago after the US alleged that Moscow is violating the New START nuclear treaty, Russia expressed its interest to preserve its last remaining nuclear treaty with the US, despite calling it a destructive approach by America for controlling arms. Meanwhile, Ryabkov has now claimed that Russia was committed to the treaty. However, he mentioned that a date had been set for new talks because of the Ukraine conflict. WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine defence minister sacked: All about the corruption scandal × Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters last week that "no matter how sad the situation is at the present time," it was actually necessary to preserve at least some "hints" of continued dialogue with Washington. Peskov said that "we consider the continuation of this treaty very important" as he described it as the only one that remained "at least hypothetically viable". He added, "Otherwise, we see that the United States has actually destroyed the legal framework for arms control." 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 reportedly discussed crucial nuclear arms treaty with US ambassador

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p>German defence minister Boris Pistorius made a surprise visit to the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv on Tuesday. Pistorius's unannounced visit came almost two weeks after a United States-backed meeting where Berlin agreed to send Leopard tanks to war-hir Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An image was shared by Ukraine's outgoing defence minister Oleksiy Reznikov with Pistorius. In the photo, the german minister can be seen holding a model replica of the tank. Later, a defence ministry spokesman confirmed the photo was taken in the Ukraine capital on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BREAKING: The «first» Leopard 2 has arrived in Kyiv 🐆<br />
There will be more of them.✊<br />
Thank you to <a href="https://twitter.com/Bundeskanzler?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Bundeskanzler</a> my colleague Boris Pistorius and the German people.<br />
The tank coalition is marching... to victory! <a href="https://t.co/4VY2YaovBi">pic.twitter.com/4VY2YaovBi</a></p>
— Oleksii Reznikov (@oleksiireznikov) <a href="https://twitter.com/oleksiireznikov/status/1622981742368854016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-responsible-for-vietnam-war-massacre-ordered-by-seoul-court-to-pay-compensation-559711">South Korea responsible for Vietnam War massacre, ordered by Seoul court to pay compensation</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the German, Dutch and Danish defence ministries said Tuesday that Ukraine will get "at least 100" Leopard 1 tanks in "coming months".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a joint statement, they said that the "required logistic support and training" will also be provided for the tanks, the predecessor to the more advanced Leopard 2 that has also been promised for Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine reports record Russian deaths&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-reports-record-russian-deaths-559691/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>In a wartime reshuffle, Ukraine has replaced its defence minister. A report on Sunday noted that a close ally of President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Reznikov will be replaced with the chief of its military spy agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As reported by the news agency Reuters, David Arakhamia, who is a senior lawmaker and chief of Servant of the People parliamentary bloc, said that Reznikov would be moved to another ministerial job and will be replaced by Kyrylo Budanov, head of the GUR military intelligence agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Arakhamia said on the Telegram messaging app: "War dictates changes in personnel policy."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


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. German defence minister Boris Pistorius made a surprise visit to the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv on Tuesday. Pistorius's unannounced visit came almost two weeks after a United States-backed meeting where Berlin agreed to send Leopard tanks to war-hir Ukraine. An image was shared by Ukraine's outgoing defence minister Oleksiy Reznikov with Pistorius. In the photo, the german minister can be seen holding a model replica of the tank. Later, a defence ministry spokesman confirmed the photo was taken in the Ukraine capital on Tuesday. BREAKING: The «first» Leopard 2 has arrived in Kyiv 🐆 There will be more of them.✊ Thank you to @Bundeskanzler my colleague Boris Pistorius and the German people. The tank coalition is marching... to victory! pic.twitter.com/4VY2YaovBi — Oleksii Reznikov (@oleksiireznikov) February 7, 2023 × ALSO READ | South Korea responsible for Vietnam War massacre, ordered by Seoul court to pay compensation Meanwhile, the German, Dutch and Danish defence ministries said Tuesday that Ukraine will get "at least 100" Leopard 1 tanks in "coming months". In a joint statement, they said that the "required logistic support and training" will also be provided for the tanks, the predecessor to the more advanced Leopard 2 that has also been promised for Kyiv. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine reports record Russian deaths × In a wartime reshuffle, Ukraine has replaced its defence minister. A report on Sunday noted that a close ally of President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Reznikov will be replaced with the chief of its military spy agency. As reported by the news agency Reuters, David Arakhamia, who is a senior lawmaker and chief of Servant of the People parliamentary bloc, said that Reznikov would be moved to another ministerial job and will be replaced by Kyrylo Budanov, head of the GUR military intelligence agency. Arakhamia said on the Telegram messaging app: "War dictates changes in personnel policy." 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 to get at least 100 Leopard 1 tanks in 'coming months'

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p>Yevgeny Prigozhin, who is the head of Russia's mercenary group Wagner, claimed on Monday (February 6) that he was on a fighter jet that had bombed Bakhmut, which has become the epicentre of fighting in eastern Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prigozhin posted an undated video of himself in the cockpit of a military aircraft and challenged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to an aerial duel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-reportedly-discussed-crucial-nuclear-arms-treaty-with-us-ambassador-559395">Russia reportedly discussed crucial nuclear arms treaty with US ambassador</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>News agencies reported that the Wagner boss appeared inside a plane flying in darkness. He was seen wearing a helmet and a pilot mask in a video on social media. The businessman, who is a close Kremlin ally, said: "We are landing, we bombed Bakhmut."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video was posted by Prigozhin's press service. The clip claimed that it was filmed aboard a Su-24 bomber plane operated by Wagner.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin has just released this video on Telegram - reportedly of him flying a sortie as a navigator in a Su-24 bomber <a href="https://t.co/p87opjmV6j">pic.twitter.com/p87opjmV6j</a></p>
— Francis Scarr (@francis_scarr) <a href="https://twitter.com/francis_scarr/status/1622580237014892546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine defence minister sacked: All about the corruption scandal</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-defence-minister-sacked-all-about-the-corruption-scandal-559378/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Prigozhin said: "If you have the will, we will meet in the skies. If you win, you will take Artemovsk (the Russian name for Bakhmut), if not, we will go until the Dnipro (River)."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fighting has been intensifying in the Bakhmut region with Zelensky saying that the Ukrainian forces are "reacting" to Russia encircling Bakhmut.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, on Monday, a resolution was adopted by the Ukrainian parliament to Wagner as a terrorist organisation. "We are preparing to destroy Wagner as a component of international terrorism," Andriy Yermak, who is the head of the Ukrainian presidential administration, said, adding that the recognition was a "step towards bringing them (Wagner) to justice."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


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. Yevgeny Prigozhin, who is the head of Russia's mercenary group Wagner, claimed on Monday (February 6) that he was on a fighter jet that had bombed Bakhmut, which has become the epicentre of fighting in eastern Ukraine. Prigozhin posted an undated video of himself in the cockpit of a military aircraft and challenged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to an aerial duel. ALSO READ | Russia reportedly discussed crucial nuclear arms treaty with US ambassador News agencies reported that the Wagner boss appeared inside a plane flying in darkness. He was seen wearing a helmet and a pilot mask in a video on social media. The businessman, who is a close Kremlin ally, said: "We are landing, we bombed Bakhmut." The video was posted by Prigozhin's press service. The clip claimed that it was filmed aboard a Su-24 bomber plane operated by Wagner. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin has just released this video on Telegram - reportedly of him flying a sortie as a navigator in a Su-24 bomber pic.twitter.com/p87opjmV6j — Francis Scarr (@francis_scarr) February 6, 2023 × WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine defence minister sacked: All about the corruption scandal × Prigozhin said: "If you have the will, we will meet in the skies. If you win, you will take Artemovsk (the Russian name for Bakhmut), if not, we will go until the Dnipro (River)." The fighting has been intensifying in the Bakhmut region with Zelensky saying that the Ukrainian forces are "reacting" to Russia encircling Bakhmut. Meanwhile, on Monday, a resolution was adopted by the Ukrainian parliament to Wagner as a terrorist organisation. "We are preparing to destroy Wagner as a component of international terrorism," Andriy Yermak, who is the head of the Ukrainian presidential administration, said, adding that the recognition was a "step towards bringing them (Wagner) to justice." (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.

Wagner boss shares cockpit video, challenges Ukraine's Zelensky to aerial duel

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p>In a raging speech on Thursday (February 2), Russian President Vladimir Putin promised victory over Ukraine. Putin was speaking at an event marking the 80th anniversary of the Red Army's victory over Nazi Germany in Stalingrad, now known as Volgograd (Stalingrad until 1961).&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his speech, the Russian president drew parallels between the Soviet Union's fight in World War II and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. He compared the fighting to Nazi Germany's invasion and hinted that Moscow could use nuclear weapons.</p>

<p>While invoking&nbsp;the war against Nazi Germany in 1941-1945, he claimed Russians were ready to go "until the end."</p>

<p>"Again and again we are forced to repel the aggression of the collective West," Putin said in the city on the Volga River formerly known as Stalingrad.</p>

<p>During his address, Putin said: "Unfortunately, we see that the ideology of Nazism in its modern form and manifestation again directly threatens the security of our country."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;The new game-changing weapon for Ukraine?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tech-it-out-the-new-game-changing-weapon-for-ukraine-558381/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Referring to the powerful battle tanks proposed to send by Berlin, Putin said that Germany is "again" threatening Russia as it was during World War II. However, he added that Moscow can "answer" countries threatening it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "Again and again, we have to repel the aggression of the collective West. It's incredible ... but it's a fact: we are again being threatened with German Leopard tanks with crosses on them."&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Russia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e3d8eab7-0419-4e61-b063-836e905ffb7e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/russia.png" /></p>

<p><em>Russian President Vladimir&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;attends a wreath-laying ceremony during an event marking the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Stalingrad in World War Two, at the Mamayev Kurgan memorial complex in Volgograd, Russia February 2, 2023. Image: Reuters</em></p>

<p>The Russian president further said that those who draw European countries into a new war with Russia and expect to win, apparently don't understand that a modern war with Russia will be quite different for them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said that Russia doesn't send tanks to borders but the nation has the means to respond. He added that Russia won't end with the use of "armoured vehicles" and the West must understand that.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


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. In a raging speech on Thursday (February 2), Russian President Vladimir Putin promised victory over Ukraine. Putin was speaking at an event marking the 80th anniversary of the Red Army's victory over Nazi Germany in Stalingrad, now known as Volgograd (Stalingrad until 1961). During his speech, the Russian president drew parallels between the Soviet Union's fight in World War II and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. He compared the fighting to Nazi Germany's invasion and hinted that Moscow could use nuclear weapons. While invoking the war against Nazi Germany in 1941-1945, he claimed Russians were ready to go "until the end." "Again and again we are forced to repel the aggression of the collective West," Putin said in the city on the Volga River formerly known as Stalingrad. During his address, Putin said: "Unfortunately, we see that the ideology of Nazism in its modern form and manifestation again directly threatens the security of our country." WATCH | The new game-changing weapon for Ukraine? × Referring to the powerful battle tanks proposed to send by Berlin, Putin said that Germany is "again" threatening Russia as it was during World War II. However, he added that Moscow can "answer" countries threatening it. He said, "Again and again, we have to repel the aggression of the collective West. It's incredible ... but it's a fact: we are again being threatened with German Leopard tanks with crosses on them." Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a wreath-laying ceremony during an event marking the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Stalingrad in World War Two, at the Mamayev Kurgan memorial complex in Volgograd, Russia February 2, 2023. Image: Reuters The Russian president further said that those who draw European countries into a new war with Russia and expect to win, apparently don't understand that a modern war with Russia will be quite different for them. Putin said that Russia doesn't send tanks to borders but the nation has the means to respond. He added that Russia won't end with the use of "armoured vehicles" and the West must understand that. (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 compares Ukraine invasion to World War II, hints at use of nuclear weapons

<p>The latest arms package by the United States for war-torn Ukraine includes long-range rockets, the Pentagon said Friday (February 3). The new rocket-propelled precision bomb could nearly double Kyiv's strike range against Russian aggression. Apart from the US, France and Italy will send missile systems to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pat Ryder, who is a Pentagon spokesman, said that the new package includes the ground-launched small-diameter bombs (GLSDB). This munition has the ability to fly up to 150 kilometres. It will help Ukrainian troops to hit deep inside Russian territories and will threaten Moscow's positions and depots.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This gives them a longer range capability ... that will enable them to conduct operations in defense of their country and to take back their sovereign territory," Ryder said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the French defence ministry said that France and Italy have agreed to deliver mobile surface-to-air missile systems to Ukraine. The systems, called MAMBA or SAMP, contain a vehicle-mounted, medium-range battery of missiles designed to offer protection from airborne threats such as missiles and aircraft.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-meeting-with-eu-leaders-underway-russia-advances-in-east-ukraine-558665/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>After months of disagreement over sending powerful tanks to help Ukraine, the West recently had a consensus. They agreed to send battle tanks to Kyiv, which came as a boost for the war-torn nation. However, President Volodymyr Zelensky continued to lobby the allies to supply long-range missiles and fighter jets to repulse Russian advances.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday slammed Germany for approving the Leopard 1 battle tank exports to Ukraine. Drawing parallels between the Ukraine war and Soviet Union's fight in World War II, Putin compared the fighting to Nazi Germany's invasion. Putin hinted that Moscow could use nuclear weapons.&nbsp;<br />
<meta name="uuid" content="uuiddKAmdAvy3sbY" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine to fight in Bakhmut 'as long as we can'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In the latest development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that his forces will fight in Bakhmut as long as they can. Zelensky hosted a summit with EU chiefs and discussed a range of topics after urging the bloc to put more sanctions on Moscow.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In fact, Sweden said that the EU member states reached an agreement on price caps for Russian petroleum products, which came ahead of an international embargo set to go into force over the weekend.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky said, "No one will surrender Bakhmut. We will fight as long as we can. If weapon (deliveries) are accelerated -- namely long-range weapons -- we will not only not withdraw from Bakhmut, we will begin to de-occupy Donbas," the eastern Ukraine region."&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;<em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The latest arms package by the United States for war-torn Ukraine includes long-range rockets, the Pentagon said Friday (February 3). The new rocket-propelled precision bomb could nearly double Kyiv's strike range against Russian aggression.

The latest arms package by the United States for war-torn Ukraine includes long-range rockets, the Pentagon said Friday (February 3). The new rocket-propelled precision bomb could nearly double Kyiv's strike range against Russian aggression. Apart from the US, France and Italy will send missile systems to Ukraine. Pat Ryder, who is a Pentagon spokesman, said that the new package includes the ground-launched small-diameter bombs (GLSDB). This munition has the ability to fly up to 150 kilometres. It will help Ukrainian troops to hit deep inside Russian territories and will threaten Moscow's positions and depots. "This gives them a longer range capability ... that will enable them to conduct operations in defense of their country and to take back their sovereign territory," Ryder said. Meanwhile, the French defence ministry said that France and Italy have agreed to deliver mobile surface-to-air missile systems to Ukraine. The systems, called MAMBA or SAMP, contain a vehicle-mounted, medium-range battery of missiles designed to offer protection from airborne threats such as missiles and aircraft. × After months of disagreement over sending powerful tanks to help Ukraine, the West recently had a consensus. They agreed to send battle tanks to Kyiv, which came as a boost for the war-torn nation. However, President Volodymyr Zelensky continued to lobby the allies to supply long-range missiles and fighter jets to repulse Russian advances. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday slammed Germany for approving the Leopard 1 battle tank exports to Ukraine. Drawing parallels between the Ukraine war and Soviet Union's fight in World War II, Putin compared the fighting to Nazi Germany's invasion. Putin hinted that Moscow could use nuclear weapons. Ukraine to fight in Bakhmut 'as long as we can' In the latest development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that his forces will fight in Bakhmut as long as they can. Zelensky hosted a summit with EU chiefs and discussed a range of topics after urging the bloc to put more sanctions on Moscow. In fact, Sweden said that the EU member states reached an agreement on price caps for Russian petroleum products, which came ahead of an international embargo set to go into force over the weekend. Zelensky said, "No one will surrender Bakhmut. We will fight as long as we can. If weapon (deliveries) are accelerated -- namely long-range weapons -- we will not only not withdraw from Bakhmut, we will begin to de-occupy Donbas," the eastern Ukraine region." (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.

US arms package for Ukraine includes longer-range rockets that will double Kyiv's strike range

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday vowed to defeat Ukraine and emerge victorious in the ongoing war. The West is certainly looking at this as a renewed Russian tempo in its fight against Kyiv.&nbsp;Russia has also warned of an "extremely dangerous" escalation in case NATO continues to arm Ukraine with deadly missiles and lethal battle tanks.</p>

<p>US and European allies, though reluctant for some time, now seem to be again defiant in their pursuit to back Ukraine with more powerful weaponry so Kyiv can reclaim the territories it lost last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrat-ilhan-omar-ousted-from-house-foreign-affairs-committee-for-her-anti-semitic-comments-558401">Democrat Ilhan Omar ousted from House Foreign Affairs Committee for her anti-Semitic comments</a></p>

<p>US had been extending defence aid to Ukraine while imposing harsh sanctions on Russia. German government also approved the delivery of Leopard 1 tanks to Ukraine from its industrial stocks and their delivery could happen anytime soon, Munich newspaper Sueddeutsche Zeitung reported on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>German automotive and arms manufacturer Rheinmetall and military technology group Flensburger Fahrzeugbau Gesellschaft (FFG) have also expressed their willingness saying if Kyiv is ready, they can recondition the Leopard tanks and send them to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-parliament-lifts-waives-immunity-from-prosecution-of-two-lawmakers-in-graft-probe-558350">EU Parliament waives immunity from prosecution of two lawmakers in bribery scam probe</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Berlin is also in talks over purchasing back 15 Gepard tanks from Qatar, which the country purchased to secure World Cup Stadiums, to send to Kyiv.&nbsp;In a statement, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said, "The Gepards have proven themselves very well in the war in Ukraine. If we could get more from partners here, that would definitely help the Ukrainians."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/will-operation-miracle-save-the-oceans-rarest-marine-mammal-wion-climate-tracker-558397">Will 'Operation Miracle' save the ocean's rarest marine mammal?&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Ahead of the 24th summit of the European Union and Ukrainian leaders that is due to begin in Kyiv, the US agreed to send longer-range bombs to Ukraine to strengthen Ukraine's offensive.&nbsp;These ground-launched small-diameter bombs are part of a $2.17 billion aid package which is expected to be announced on Friday.</p>

<p>Moreover, the UK defence minister on Thursday also said that he did not rule out supplying Ukraine with fighter jets while cautioning they would not be a "magic wand" in the war.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday vowed to defeat Ukraine and emerge victorious in the ongoing war. The West is certainly looking at this as a renewed Russian tempo in its fight against Kyiv.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday vowed to defeat Ukraine and emerge victorious in the ongoing war. The West is certainly looking at this as a renewed Russian tempo in its fight against Kyiv. Russia has also warned of an "extremely dangerous" escalation in case NATO continues to arm Ukraine with deadly missiles and lethal battle tanks. US and European allies, though reluctant for some time, now seem to be again defiant in their pursuit to back Ukraine with more powerful weaponry so Kyiv can reclaim the territories it lost last year. Also Read | Democrat Ilhan Omar ousted from House Foreign Affairs Committee for her anti-Semitic comments US had been extending defence aid to Ukraine while imposing harsh sanctions on Russia. German government also approved the delivery of Leopard 1 tanks to Ukraine from its industrial stocks and their delivery could happen anytime soon, Munich newspaper Sueddeutsche Zeitung reported on Friday. German automotive and arms manufacturer Rheinmetall and military technology group Flensburger Fahrzeugbau Gesellschaft (FFG) have also expressed their willingness saying if Kyiv is ready, they can recondition the Leopard tanks and send them to Ukraine. Also Read | EU Parliament waives immunity from prosecution of two lawmakers in bribery scam probe Meanwhile, Berlin is also in talks over purchasing back 15 Gepard tanks from Qatar, which the country purchased to secure World Cup Stadiums, to send to Kyiv. In a statement, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said, "The Gepards have proven themselves very well in the war in Ukraine. If we could get more from partners here, that would definitely help the Ukrainians." Watch | Will 'Operation Miracle' save the ocean's rarest marine mammal? Ahead of the 24th summit of the European Union and Ukrainian leaders that is due to begin in Kyiv, the US agreed to send longer-range bombs to Ukraine to strengthen Ukraine's offensive. These ground-launched small-diameter bombs are part of a $2.17 billion aid package which is expected to be announced on Friday. Moreover, the UK defence minister on Thursday also said that he did not rule out supplying Ukraine with fighter jets while cautioning they would not be a "magic wand" in the war. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

From Leopard tanks to longer-range bombs, NATO scrambles to arm Ukraine

<p>Ukraine claimed on Thursday (February 2) that an overnight Russian missile strike&nbsp;destroyed an apartment building and damaged nine others. The Ukrainian authorities said that at least three people were killed and around 20 were wounded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The authorities also said that rescue work is underway in a city in eastern Ukraine. According to the police force, the apartments in the city of Kramatorsk were hit by an Iskander-K tactical missile at 9.45pm (local time).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, police said, "Ten apartment buildings were damaged, one partially collapsed. Search and rescue work, which continued all night, is still underway."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Ukrainian Defence Minister: Russia planning 24 February offensive&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/war-in-ukraine-ukrainian-defence-minister-russia-planning-24-february-offensive-558192/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/austria-expels-four-russian-diplomats-asks-them-to-leave-within-one-week-558277">Austria expels four Russian diplomats, asks them to leave within one week</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Reports have noted that a husband and wife and a 61-year-old pensioner were among those who lost their lives. The daughter of the pensioner was still believed to be missing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the rocket strike, President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on Telegram: "Peaceful people died and are under the rubble. This is the daily reality of life in our country."&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Volodymyr Zelensky" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cc491d81-6e4e-4e43-9154-5505260664fc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Volodymyr%20Zelensky_0.png" /></p>

<p><em>Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen attend EU summit, as&nbsp;Russia's attack on Ukraine continues, in Kyiv, Ukraine February 2, 2023. Image: Reuters</em></p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky calls for fresh sanctions&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, ahead of the war anniversary, Zelensky asked the European Union to slam Russia with fresh sanctions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Russia announced the invasion last year, the United States, EU and other allies imposed multiple economic sanctions on Moscow, with an aim to isolate it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Belgium's diamond trade with Russia is among a few business ties that are untouched.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Zelensky said, "We can see that the pace of Europe's sanctions has slightly slowed down while the terrorist state, on the contrary, is increasing its pace of adapting to sanctions. It's worth catching up and fixing (this). We believe that we can do it."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was speaking during a news conference with the head of the EU's executive, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, on a visit to Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Ukraine claimed on Thursday (February 2) that an overnight Russian missile strike destroyed an apartment building and damaged nine others. The Ukrainian authorities said that at least three people were killed and around 20 were wounded.

Ukraine claimed on Thursday (February 2) that an overnight Russian missile strike destroyed an apartment building and damaged nine others. The Ukrainian authorities said that at least three people were killed and around 20 were wounded. The authorities also said that rescue work is underway in a city in eastern Ukraine. According to the police force, the apartments in the city of Kramatorsk were hit by an Iskander-K tactical missile at 9.45pm (local time). In a statement, police said, "Ten apartment buildings were damaged, one partially collapsed. Search and rescue work, which continued all night, is still underway." WATCH | Ukrainian Defence Minister: Russia planning 24 February offensive × ALSO READ | Austria expels four Russian diplomats, asks them to leave within one week Reports have noted that a husband and wife and a 61-year-old pensioner were among those who lost their lives. The daughter of the pensioner was still believed to be missing. After the rocket strike, President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on Telegram: "Peaceful people died and are under the rubble. This is the daily reality of life in our country." Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen attend EU summit, as Russia's attack on Ukraine continues, in Kyiv, Ukraine February 2, 2023. Image: Reuters Zelensky calls for fresh sanctions Meanwhile, ahead of the war anniversary, Zelensky asked the European Union to slam Russia with fresh sanctions. After Russia announced the invasion last year, the United States, EU and other allies imposed multiple economic sanctions on Moscow, with an aim to isolate it. However, Belgium's diamond trade with Russia is among a few business ties that are untouched. But Zelensky said, "We can see that the pace of Europe's sanctions has slightly slowed down while the terrorist state, on the contrary, is increasing its pace of adapting to sanctions. It's worth catching up and fixing (this). We believe that we can do it." He was speaking during a news conference with the head of the EU's executive, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, on a visit to Kyiv. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russian missile strike on Ukrainian residential building kills three; Kyiv calls for more sanctions on Moscow

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidkuZbQUAKtlGR" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p>Russia has&nbsp;responded to the claims made by the United States that Moscow is violating the New START nuclear treaty. Russia on Wednesday (February 1) said that it intends to preserve its last remaining nuclear treaty with the US despite calling it a destructive approach by America for controlling arms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dmitry Peskov, who is the Kremlin spokesman, told reporters that "no matter how sad the situation is at the present time", it was actually necessary to preserve at least some "hints" of continued dialogue with Washington.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Peskov said that "we consider the continuation of this treaty very important" as he described it as the only one that remained "at least hypothetically viable". He added, "Otherwise, we see that the United States has actually destroyed the legal framework&nbsp;for arms control."&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the unversed, the New START is a nuclear arms reduction treaty between the US and Russia with an aim to have control over nuclear arms in both nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia Ukraine War: US readies $2.4bn Ukraine aid package; Zelensky lobbying hard for NATO jets&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-us-readies-24-bn-ukraine-aid-package-zelensky-lobbying-hard-for-nato-jets-557985/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The formal name of the treaty is Measures for the Further Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms and it was signed on April 8, 2010, in Prague. After ratification, it was entered into force on February 5, 2011.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The treaty aims to put limits on the two countries over the deployment of nuclear warheads on&nbsp;ballistic missiles and heavy bombers. The New START is set to expire in 2026 and experts have raised concerns and urged that the treaty should be revived.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the US has claimed that Russia had violated the terms of the New START Treaty, stating that Moscow was refusing to allow inspection activities on its territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A State Department spokesperson said: "Russia's refusal to facilitate inspection activities prevents the United States from exercising important rights under the treaty and threatens the viability of US-Russian nuclear arms control."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inouts from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russia has responded to the claims made by the United States that Moscow is violating the New START nuclear treaty. Russia on Wednesday (February 1) said that it intends to preserve its last remaining nuclear treaty with the US despite calling it a destructive approach by America for controlling arms. Dmitry Peskov, who is the Kremlin spokesman, told reporters that "no matter how sad the situation is at the present time", it was actually necessary to preserve at least some "hints" of continued dialogue with Washington. Peskov said that "we consider the continuation of this treaty very important" as he described it as the only one that remained "at least hypothetically viable". He added, "Otherwise, we see that the United States has actually destroyed the legal framework for arms control." For the unversed, the New START is a nuclear arms reduction treaty between the US and Russia with an aim to have control over nuclear arms in both nations. WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: US readies $2.4bn Ukraine aid package; Zelensky lobbying hard for NATO jets × The formal name of the treaty is Measures for the Further Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms and it was signed on April 8, 2010, in Prague. After ratification, it was entered into force on February 5, 2011. The treaty aims to put limits on the two countries over the deployment of nuclear warheads on ballistic missiles and heavy bombers. The New START is set to expire in 2026 and experts have raised concerns and urged that the treaty should be revived. Meanwhile, the US has claimed that Russia had violated the terms of the New START Treaty, stating that Moscow was refusing to allow inspection activities on its territory. A State Department spokesperson said: "Russia's refusal to facilitate inspection activities prevents the United States from exercising important rights under the treaty and threatens the viability of US-Russian nuclear arms control." (With inouts 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.

New START nuclear treaty: Russia considers continuation of this 'important' treaty

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidExMkkMnWTbaK" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p>The United Kingdom has said that it won't provide Ukraine with RAF Typhoon and F-35 fighters amid Kyiv's growing demands for fighter jets and long-range missiles to counter Russian aggression.&nbsp;UK-based media outlet Daily Mail reported that Britain has refused a request from Ukraine for advanced fighter jets, stating that it is not "practical".&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the report, Britain said that it&nbsp;won't send RAF Typhoon or F-35 fighters as it would take a long time to train pilots of Ukrainian forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the Daily Mail report, the prime minister's official spokesman said that it was "not currently practical" to send RAF jets.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-uk-italy-japan-to-set-up-international-organisation-for-military-innovation-report-557718">The UK, Italy, Japan to set up international organisation for military innovation: Report</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>He said, "The UK's Typhoon and F-35 fighter jets are extremely sophisticated and take months to learn how to fly. Given that, we believe it is not practical to send those jets into Ukraine."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "Obviously we will continue to provide and accelerate our military support to Ukraine and listen carefully to their requests."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The recent consensus among the West to send powerful tanks to Ukraine came as a boost for the war-torn nation, but Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky continues to lobby the allies to supply fighter jets to repulse Russian advances.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, the Ukrainian air force has Soviet-era Russian fighters, mainly the Mig-29 and it has further demanded powerful weapons, missiles, especially jets, as Kyiv wants fighter planes sooner rather than later.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;War in Ukraine: Kyiv to get 120-140 Western tanks in first instalment&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/war-in-ukraine-kyiv-to-get-120-140-western-tanks-in-first-installment-557715/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/russians-must-compete-moscow-responds-as-ukraine-threatens-paris-olympics-boycott-557649">'Russians must compete...': Moscow responds as Ukraine threatens Paris Olympics boycott</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu, meanwhile,&nbsp;said "there was no taboo" about supplying Kyiv with fighter planes after meeting Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov in Paris.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report published by Reuters said that two United States officials briefed on the matter told the news agency on Tuesday that the US is preparing a $2.2 billion package of additional assistance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Biden administration has already provided Ukraine with reportedly $27.2 billion in military aid since Russia's invasion. The news agency also reported that the US might offer Kyiv longer-range rockets for the first time and other munitions and weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


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. The United Kingdom has said that it won't provide Ukraine with RAF Typhoon and F-35 fighters amid Kyiv's growing demands for fighter jets and long-range missiles to counter Russian aggression. UK-based media outlet Daily Mail reported that Britain has refused a request from Ukraine for advanced fighter jets, stating that it is not "practical". According to the report, Britain said that it won't send RAF Typhoon or F-35 fighters as it would take a long time to train pilots of Ukrainian forces. As quoted by the Daily Mail report, the prime minister's official spokesman said that it was "not currently practical" to send RAF jets. ALSO READ | The UK, Italy, Japan to set up international organisation for military innovation: Report He said, "The UK's Typhoon and F-35 fighter jets are extremely sophisticated and take months to learn how to fly. Given that, we believe it is not practical to send those jets into Ukraine." He added, "Obviously we will continue to provide and accelerate our military support to Ukraine and listen carefully to their requests." The recent consensus among the West to send powerful tanks to Ukraine came as a boost for the war-torn nation, but Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky continues to lobby the allies to supply fighter jets to repulse Russian advances. Currently, the Ukrainian air force has Soviet-era Russian fighters, mainly the Mig-29 and it has further demanded powerful weapons, missiles, especially jets, as Kyiv wants fighter planes sooner rather than later. WATCH | War in Ukraine: Kyiv to get 120-140 Western tanks in first instalment × ALSO READ | 'Russians must compete...': Moscow responds as Ukraine threatens Paris Olympics boycott French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu, meanwhile, said "there was no taboo" about supplying Kyiv with fighter planes after meeting Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov in Paris. A report published by Reuters said that two United States officials briefed on the matter told the news agency on Tuesday that the US is preparing a $2.2 billion package of additional assistance. The Biden administration has already provided Ukraine with reportedly $27.2 billion in military aid since Russia's invasion. The news agency also reported that the US might offer Kyiv longer-range rockets for the first time and other munitions and weapons. (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: UK says it won’t supply Kyiv with RAF Typhoon and F-35 fighters, gives reason

<p>The Russia-Ukraine war will complete one year on February 24 this year, however, there is no end in sight with many still unsure of what the future holds for them.&nbsp;Amid the bomb shellings and the sanctions&nbsp;since Russia invaded Ukrainian territory a year ago, stories emerge from the battleground every now and then that shake people to their core.&nbsp;In an interview with CNN, a former Wagner mercenary narrates his experience from ground zero where he speaks about the brutality he witnessed in Ukraine. Andrei Medvedev, who is presently seeking asylum in Norway's Oslo, talked at length and gave an insider story about the Wagner group, a private military company which Russia is reportedly using to mobilise hundreds of mercenary soldiers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadas-three-year-pilot-programme-to-decriminalise-possession-of-illicit-drugs-begins-in-bc-557691">Canada’s three-year pilot programme to decriminalise possession of illicit drugs begins in BC</a></p>

<p>Andrei Medvedev shed light on how the Wagner fighters often have no clue when they are pushed into the battle. 26-year-old Medvedev, who joined the group as a volunteer, also described Wagner's behaviour towards the fighters as ruthless.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He even went on saying, “They would round up those who did not want to fight and shoot them in front of newcomers."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/norways-sovereign-wealth-fund-suffers-historic-losses-of-164-billion-557679">Norway's sovereign wealth fund suffers historic losses of $164 billion</a></p>

<p>“They brought two prisoners who refused to go fight and shot them in front of everyone and buried them right in the trenches that were dug by the trainees.” Medvedev signed his contract in July 2022 and moved to Ukraine after 10 days of signing. He termed the Wagner group founders, Dmitry Utkin and Russian oligarch Yevgeny Prigozhin, as “the devil”.</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-beijing-says-city-has-achieved-temporary-herd-immunity-557708">China: Beijing says city has achieved 'temporary herd immunity'</a></p>

<p>“If (Prigozhin) was a Russian hero, he would have taken a gun and run with the soldiers,” Medvedev said. The bitterness is mutual as Wagner earlier said that Medvedev “should have been prosecuted for attempting to mistreat prisoners”.</p>

<p>“There were more dead bodies and more, and more, people coming in. In the end, I had a lot of people under my command,” Medvedev said, adding, “I couldn’t count how many. They were in constant circulation. Dead bodies, more prisoners, more dead bodies, more prisoners.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The Russia-Ukraine war will complete one year on February 24 this year, however, there is no end in sight with many still unsure of what the future holds for them.

The Russia-Ukraine war will complete one year on February 24 this year, however, there is no end in sight with many still unsure of what the future holds for them. Amid the bomb shellings and the sanctions since Russia invaded Ukrainian territory a year ago, stories emerge from the battleground every now and then that shake people to their core. In an interview with CNN, a former Wagner mercenary narrates his experience from ground zero where he speaks about the brutality he witnessed in Ukraine. Andrei Medvedev, who is presently seeking asylum in Norway's Oslo, talked at length and gave an insider story about the Wagner group, a private military company which Russia is reportedly using to mobilise hundreds of mercenary soldiers. Also Read | Canada’s three-year pilot programme to decriminalise possession of illicit drugs begins in BC Andrei Medvedev shed light on how the Wagner fighters often have no clue when they are pushed into the battle. 26-year-old Medvedev, who joined the group as a volunteer, also described Wagner's behaviour towards the fighters as ruthless. He even went on saying, “They would round up those who did not want to fight and shoot them in front of newcomers." Also Read | Norway's sovereign wealth fund suffers historic losses of $164 billion “They brought two prisoners who refused to go fight and shot them in front of everyone and buried them right in the trenches that were dug by the trainees.” Medvedev signed his contract in July 2022 and moved to Ukraine after 10 days of signing. He termed the Wagner group founders, Dmitry Utkin and Russian oligarch Yevgeny Prigozhin, as “the devil”. Watch | China: Beijing says city has achieved 'temporary herd immunity' “If (Prigozhin) was a Russian hero, he would have taken a gun and run with the soldiers,” Medvedev said. The bitterness is mutual as Wagner earlier said that Medvedev “should have been prosecuted for attempting to mistreat prisoners”. “There were more dead bodies and more, and more, people coming in. In the end, I had a lot of people under my command,” Medvedev said, adding, “I couldn’t count how many. They were in constant circulation. Dead bodies, more prisoners, more dead bodies, more prisoners.” 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 Group defector recalls horrific killings of non-submissive fighters in Ukraine

<p>Former United States president Donald Trump&nbsp;on Saturday (January 28) accused Joe Biden, the current president of bringing them to the brink of World War III.</p>

<p>Trump started his campaign trail for the first time since announcing his bid for the presidential election in 2024. The former president visited two early-voting states. He also denied the criticism that his run was off to a slow start.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Trump spoke firstly at New Hampshire Republican Party's annual meeting in Salem. He then headed to Columbia, South Carolina, where he made an appearance alongside his leadership team in the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-resume-issuing-visas-for-japanese-citizens-no-decision-on-south-korea-yet-557010">China to resume issuing visas for Japanese citizens, no decision on South Koreans yet</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>While weighing in on the one Russia-Ukraine war and its massive impact globally, Trump said: "Through weakness and incompetence, Joe Biden has brought us to the brink of World War III."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are at the brink of World War III, just in case anybody doesn't know it. As president, I will bring back peace through strength," he added. He claimed that he would have a "peace deal" within 24 hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Tyre Nichols death | Memphis: Scorpion police unit disbanded, victim's family welcomes decision&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tyre-nichols-death-memphis-scorpion-police-unit-disbanded-victims-family-welcomes-decision-556981/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>While speaking to a smaller crowd during the annual meeting in Salem, Trump said that he was motivated to win as he embarks on his third White House bid. He said, "I'm more angry now and I'm more committed now than I ever was."&nbsp;</p>

<p>At an event in the Statehouse in Columbia, Trump said, "This campaign will be about the future. This campaign will be about issues."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that Biden has put America on the fast track to ruin and destruction and we will ensure that he does not receive four more years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Former United States president Donald Trump on Saturday (January 28) accused Joe Biden, the current president of bringing them to the brink of World War III. Trump started his campaign trail for the first time since announcing his bid for the presidential election in 2024.

Former United States president Donald Trump on Saturday (January 28) accused Joe Biden, the current president of bringing them to the brink of World War III. Trump started his campaign trail for the first time since announcing his bid for the presidential election in 2024. The former president visited two early-voting states. He also denied the criticism that his run was off to a slow start. Trump spoke firstly at New Hampshire Republican Party's annual meeting in Salem. He then headed to Columbia, South Carolina, where he made an appearance alongside his leadership team in the state. ALSO READ | China to resume issuing visas for Japanese citizens, no decision on South Koreans yet While weighing in on the one Russia-Ukraine war and its massive impact globally, Trump said: "Through weakness and incompetence, Joe Biden has brought us to the brink of World War III." "We are at the brink of World War III, just in case anybody doesn't know it. As president, I will bring back peace through strength," he added. He claimed that he would have a "peace deal" within 24 hours. WATCH | Tyre Nichols death | Memphis: Scorpion police unit disbanded, victim's family welcomes decision × While speaking to a smaller crowd during the annual meeting in Salem, Trump said that he was motivated to win as he embarks on his third White House bid. He said, "I'm more angry now and I'm more committed now than I ever was." At an event in the Statehouse in Columbia, Trump said, "This campaign will be about the future. This campaign will be about issues." He said that Biden has put America on the fast track to ruin and destruction and we will ensure that he does not receive four more years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Donald Trump says Joe Biden 'brought us to the brink of World War III'

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p>Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on Sunday (January 29) that Germany will not send fighter jets to Ukraine. His remarks come after Berlin agreed to supply 14 powerful Leopard tanks to Kyiv amid intense pressure from other European counties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine has asked the West to supply powerful weapons for its fight against the Russian invasion. The West initially hesitated to engage in direct conflict with Russia, but later agreed and sent tanks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides Germany, the United States also announced that it would send 31 of its Abrams tanks. Canada said that it will also supply heavy tanks to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-forces-repelled-attacks-near-blahodatne-russias-wagner-claims-control-557054">Ukrainian forces ‘repel attacks’ near Blahodatne, Russia’s Wagner claims control</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In an interview with the Tagesspiegel newspaper, Scholz said: "I can only advise against entering into a constant bidding war when it comes to weapons systems."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "If, as soon as a decision (on tanks) has been made, the next debate starts in Germany, that doesn't come across as serious and undermines citizens' confidence in government decisions."&nbsp;</p>

<p>After receiving tanks, Ukraine demanded fighter jets and long-range missiles. Moscow has already said multiple times that it will be considered an escalation if the West agrees to supply long-range missiles, that can penetrate deep inside Russian regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-joe-biden-brought-us-to-the-brink-of-world-war-iii-557070">Donald Trump says Joe Biden 'brought us to the brink of World War III'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Scholz in the interview warned against raising "the risk of escalation". He said,&nbsp;"There is no war between NATO and Russia. We will not allow such an escalation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I will talk to Putin by phone again," Scholz said, noting that&nbsp;it was "necessary" to continue speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The last phone call between the leaders was in early December.</p>

<p>"But of course, it's also clear that as long as Russia continues to wage war with unabated aggression, the current situation will not change."</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-germany-rules-out-fighter-jets-demand-of-ukraine-557076/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Zelensky says Ukraine needs faster supplies, new weapons</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukraine needs faster weapons supplies and new types of weaponry in order to counter Russian attacks as the Ukrainian troops are facing a "very tough" situation in the eastern Donetsk region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his nightly video address on Sunday (January 29), Zelensky said, "Bakhmut, Vuhledar and other sectors in Donetsk region -- there are constant Russian attacks."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "Russia hopes to drag out the war and exhaust our forces. So, we have to make time for our weapons. We have to accelerate developments. We have to speed up the supply and launch of new necessary military options for Ukraine."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


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. Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on Sunday (January 29) that Germany will not send fighter jets to Ukraine. His remarks come after Berlin agreed to supply 14 powerful Leopard tanks to Kyiv amid intense pressure from other European counties. Ukraine has asked the West to supply powerful weapons for its fight against the Russian invasion. The West initially hesitated to engage in direct conflict with Russia, but later agreed and sent tanks. Besides Germany, the United States also announced that it would send 31 of its Abrams tanks. Canada said that it will also supply heavy tanks to Ukraine. ALSO READ | Ukrainian forces ‘repel attacks’ near Blahodatne, Russia’s Wagner claims control In an interview with the Tagesspiegel newspaper, Scholz said: "I can only advise against entering into a constant bidding war when it comes to weapons systems." He added, "If, as soon as a decision (on tanks) has been made, the next debate starts in Germany, that doesn't come across as serious and undermines citizens' confidence in government decisions." After receiving tanks, Ukraine demanded fighter jets and long-range missiles. Moscow has already said multiple times that it will be considered an escalation if the West agrees to supply long-range missiles, that can penetrate deep inside Russian regions. ALSO READ | Donald Trump says Joe Biden 'brought us to the brink of World War III' Scholz in the interview warned against raising "the risk of escalation". He said, "There is no war between NATO and Russia. We will not allow such an escalation." "I will talk to Putin by phone again," Scholz said, noting that it was "necessary" to continue speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The last phone call between the leaders was in early December. "But of course, it's also clear that as long as Russia continues to wage war with unabated aggression, the current situation will not change." Watch this report: × Zelensky says Ukraine needs faster supplies, new weapons Meanwhile, President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukraine needs faster weapons supplies and new types of weaponry in order to counter Russian attacks as the Ukrainian troops are facing a "very tough" situation in the eastern Donetsk region. In his nightly video address on Sunday (January 29), Zelensky said, "Bakhmut, Vuhledar and other sectors in Donetsk region -- there are constant Russian attacks." He added, "Russia hopes to drag out the war and exhaust our forces. So, we have to make time for our weapons. We have to accelerate developments. We have to speed up the supply and launch of new necessary military options for Ukraine." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Germany won't send fighter jets to Ukraine; Zelensky urges for faster supplies, new weapons

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p>Kremlin on Monday (January 30) dismissed former British prime minister Boris Johnson's claim&nbsp;that Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened to harm&nbsp;him with a missile during a phone call before Russia launched the "special military operation" into Ukraine. Kremlin denied the accusations, terming Johnson a liar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, "What Mr Johnson said is not true. More precisely it's a lie... There were no missile threats."&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking to BBC for a documentary, Johnson alleged that the Russian president had asked him about the prospects of Ukraine joining NATO. Boris claimed he said that it would not be "for the foreseeable future".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-army-no-longer-among-worlds-top-combat-forces-says-us-general-557256">British Army no longer among world's top combat forces, says US General</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Johnson said, "He threatened me at one point, and he said, 'Boris, I don't want to hurt you but, with a missile, it would only take a minute' or something like that. Jolly."</p>

<p>Johnson said that the call was "very long" and "most extraordinary", which took place last year in February. He added, "But I think from the very relaxed tone that he was taking, the sort of air of detachment that he seemed to have, he was just playing along with my attempts to get him to negotiate."&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his time in office, Boris made sure that the UK become a strong ally of Ukraine. He also visited the war-torn nation several times while in office and held telephonic conversations with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy frequently. He also helped Kiyv with military assistance.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-boris-johnson-says-putin-threatened-him-with-missile-strike-557119/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Kremlin slams West for supply of weapons to Ukraine&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Kremlin also commented on the&nbsp;supply of advanced weapons to Ukraine, stating that further supplies of powerful weaponry to Kyiv would only lead to further escalation of the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a call with reporters, Peskov said, "Ukraine demands more and more weapons. The West is encouraging these demands, and professes its readiness to provide such weapons."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The reporters asked him to comment on a public request by Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Andriy Melnyk for Germany to send Kyiv a submarine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/step-up-military-support-for-ukraine-nato-chief-urges-south-korea-557136">'Step up' military support for Ukraine, NATO chief urges South Korea</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>After hesitating for a long period of time, the West agreed to send powerful tanks for its fight against the Russian invasion last week. Earlier, the West didn't want to engage in direct conflict with Russia, but later agreed and sent tanks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine is still demanding fighter jets and long-range missiles to strike deep inside Russian territories, but there's no consensus so far.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Peskov on Monday also said members of the Western NATO alliance were becoming more involved in the conflict. He noted that their provision of arms to Ukraine would not change the course of events.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's a dead-end situation: it leads to significant escalation, it leads to NATO countries more and more becoming directly involved in the conflict - but it doesn't have the potential to change the course of events and will not do so," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


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. Kremlin on Monday (January 30) dismissed former British prime minister Boris Johnson's claim that Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened to harm him with a missile during a phone call before Russia launched the "special military operation" into Ukraine. Kremlin denied the accusations, terming Johnson a liar. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, "What Mr Johnson said is not true. More precisely it's a lie... There were no missile threats." While speaking to BBC for a documentary, Johnson alleged that the Russian president had asked him about the prospects of Ukraine joining NATO. Boris claimed he said that it would not be "for the foreseeable future". ALSO READ | British Army no longer among world's top combat forces, says US General Johnson said, "He threatened me at one point, and he said, 'Boris, I don't want to hurt you but, with a missile, it would only take a minute' or something like that. Jolly." Johnson said that the call was "very long" and "most extraordinary", which took place last year in February. He added, "But I think from the very relaxed tone that he was taking, the sort of air of detachment that he seemed to have, he was just playing along with my attempts to get him to negotiate." During his time in office, Boris made sure that the UK become a strong ally of Ukraine. He also visited the war-torn nation several times while in office and held telephonic conversations with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy frequently. He also helped Kiyv with military assistance. Watch this report: × Kremlin slams West for supply of weapons to Ukraine Kremlin also commented on the supply of advanced weapons to Ukraine, stating that further supplies of powerful weaponry to Kyiv would only lead to further escalation of the war. In a call with reporters, Peskov said, "Ukraine demands more and more weapons. The West is encouraging these demands, and professes its readiness to provide such weapons." The reporters asked him to comment on a public request by Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Andriy Melnyk for Germany to send Kyiv a submarine. ALSO READ | 'Step up' military support for Ukraine, NATO chief urges South Korea After hesitating for a long period of time, the West agreed to send powerful tanks for its fight against the Russian invasion last week. Earlier, the West didn't want to engage in direct conflict with Russia, but later agreed and sent tanks. Ukraine is still demanding fighter jets and long-range missiles to strike deep inside Russian territories, but there's no consensus so far. Peskov on Monday also said members of the Western NATO alliance were becoming more involved in the conflict. He noted that their provision of arms to Ukraine would not change the course of events. "It's a dead-end situation: it leads to significant escalation, it leads to NATO countries more and more becoming directly involved in the conflict - but it doesn't have the potential to change the course of events and will not do so," he said. 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.

Kremlin dismisses Boris Johnson's claim about Putin missile threat, calls it a 'lie'

The 'Doomsday clock' has been adjusted as the Ukraine war intensifies. It's now 90 seconds away from midnight aka 'the point of annihilation'. What is the doomsday clock? How does it work? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas | Scientists adjust 'doomsday clock' to 90 seconds from midnight

Gravitas: Scientists adjust 'doomsday clock' to 90 seconds from midnight

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidvKZ6kFJ3J2Fx" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p>The Russia-Ukraine war continues to escalate with fighting raging in the Donetsk region. In the latest development, Ukraine claimed that it has repelled an attack in the area of Blahodatne in the eastern part of the Donetsk region&nbsp;while&nbsp;Russia's Wagner private military group said it took control of the village. In its daily morning report, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces mentioned Saturday's fighting, stating that its forces repelled Russian attacks in the areas of 13 other settlements in the Donetsk region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official said that the "units of Ukraine's Defence Forces repelled the attacks of the occupiers in the areas of...Blahodatne...in the Donetsk region".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-joe-biden-brought-us-to-the-brink-of-world-war-iii-557070">Donald Trump says Joe Biden 'brought us to the brink of World War III'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION Fineprint: Germany rules out fighter jets demand of Ukraine&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-germany-rules-out-fighter-jets-demand-of-ukraine-557076/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Posting the update on the Telegram messaging app, the Wagner Group on Saturday claimed that its units had taken control of Blahodatne. The group has been designated by the United States as a transnational criminal organisation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin said as quoted by his press service: "Units of Wagner PMC have taken Blahodatne. Blahodatne is under our control."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The situation has been escalating in the Donetsk region. The area around the town of Bakhmut has seen heavy fighting in the past few weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


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. The Russia-Ukraine war continues to escalate with fighting raging in the Donetsk region. In the latest development, Ukraine claimed that it has repelled an attack in the area of Blahodatne in the eastern part of the Donetsk region while Russia's Wagner private military group said it took control of the village. In its daily morning report, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces mentioned Saturday's fighting, stating that its forces repelled Russian attacks in the areas of 13 other settlements in the Donetsk region. The official said that the "units of Ukraine's Defence Forces repelled the attacks of the occupiers in the areas of...Blahodatne...in the Donetsk region". ALSO READ | Donald Trump says Joe Biden 'brought us to the brink of World War III' WATCH | WION Fineprint: Germany rules out fighter jets demand of Ukraine × Posting the update on the Telegram messaging app, the Wagner Group on Saturday claimed that its units had taken control of Blahodatne. The group has been designated by the United States as a transnational criminal organisation. Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin said as quoted by his press service: "Units of Wagner PMC have taken Blahodatne. Blahodatne is under our control." The situation has been escalating in the Donetsk region. The area around the town of Bakhmut has seen heavy fighting in the past few weeks. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukrainian forces ‘repel attacks’ near Blahodatne, Russia’s Wagner claims control

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the imposition of sanctions on 182 Russian and Belarusian companies, and three individuals in a bid to block connections between Moscow, Minsk and his country.&nbsp;“Their assets in Ukraine are blocked, their properties will be used for our defence,” Zelenskiy said in a video address on Saturday.</p>

<p>Among those who have been slapped with sanctions include Russian potash fertiliser producer and exporter Uralkali, Belarus state-owned potash producer Belaruskali, Belarusian Railways, as well as Russia’s VTB-Leasing and Gazprombank Leasing, both dealing with transport leasing.</p>

<p>Since the invasion last year, Ukraine has sanctioned hundreds of Russian and Belarusian individuals and firms.</p>

<h2><strong>North Korea denies arm supply to Wagner</strong></h2>

<p>On Sunday, North Korea denied supplying arms to Moscow after the US accused it of providing rockets and missiles to Russia’s mercenary group Wagner, which has been designated as a transnational criminal organisation by Washington.</p>

<p>The White House citing US intelligence photographs said it had ample evidence suggesting that Russian rail cars entered North Korea to pick up infantry rockets and missiles.</p>

<p>The move prompted strong reactions from Pyongyang with a senior North Korean official warning that the US would face a “really undesirable result” if it persists in spreading the “self-made rumour”.</p>

<p>“Trying to tarnish the image of [North Korea] by fabricating a non-existent thing is a grave provocation that can never be allowed and that cannot but trigger its reaction,” said Kwon Jong-gun, director general of the department of US affairs.</p>

<p>He also called it “a foolish attempt to justify its offer of weapons to Ukraine”.</p>

<p>Apart from China, Russia is one of North Korea’s few international friends and has previously come to the regime’s aid.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE: </strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the imposition of sanctions on 182 Russian and Belarusian companies, and three individuals in a bid to block connections between Moscow, Minsk and his country.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the imposition of sanctions on 182 Russian and Belarusian companies, and three individuals in a bid to block connections between Moscow, Minsk and his country. “Their assets in Ukraine are blocked, their properties will be used for our defence,” Zelenskiy said in a video address on Saturday. Among those who have been slapped with sanctions include Russian potash fertiliser producer and exporter Uralkali, Belarus state-owned potash producer Belaruskali, Belarusian Railways, as well as Russia’s VTB-Leasing and Gazprombank Leasing, both dealing with transport leasing. Since the invasion last year, Ukraine has sanctioned hundreds of Russian and Belarusian individuals and firms. North Korea denies arm supply to Wagner On Sunday, North Korea denied supplying arms to Moscow after the US accused it of providing rockets and missiles to Russia’s mercenary group Wagner, which has been designated as a transnational criminal organisation by Washington. The White House citing US intelligence photographs said it had ample evidence suggesting that Russian rail cars entered North Korea to pick up infantry rockets and missiles. The move prompted strong reactions from Pyongyang with a senior North Korean official warning that the US would face a “really undesirable result” if it persists in spreading the “self-made rumour”. “Trying to tarnish the image of [North Korea] by fabricating a non-existent thing is a grave provocation that can never be allowed and that cannot but trigger its reaction,” said Kwon Jong-gun, director general of the department of US affairs. He also called it “a foolish attempt to justify its offer of weapons to Ukraine”. Apart from China, Russia is one of North Korea’s few international friends and has previously come to the regime’s aid. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ukraine slaps sanctions on 182 Russian, Belarusian companies, three individuals

<p>In a recent interview, Ukraine’s presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak said that Kyiv and its Western allies are in the midst of negotiating for long-range missiles and fighter jets to push back Russian forces. The top aide to President Volodymyr Zelensky also spoke about how their Western allies have been “conservative” about arms deliveries as they fear changes in the “international architecture”&nbsp;amid the ongoing conflict, reported the Associated Press. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“To drastically reduce the Russian army’s key weapon — the artillery they use today on the front lines — we need missiles that will destroy their depots,”&nbsp;said Podolyak to the country’s Freedom channel, as per Reuters. This comes after Washington and Berlin along with several other European countries announced that they would send their advanced battle tanks, German-made Leopard 2 tanks and US-made M1 Abrams to Ukraine.</p>

<p>In reference to Russia’s weapon depots, the Ukrainian top aide claimed that there were more than 100 artillery warehouses in the Moscow-occupied Crimean Peninsula. “We need to work with this. We must show (our partners) the real picture of this war,”&nbsp;said the Ukrainian official, without mentioning any particular countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-slaps-sanctions-against-russian-belarusian-companies-556964">Ukraine slaps sanctions against Russian, Belarusian companies</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, “We must speak reasonably and tell them, for example, ‘This and this will reduce fatalities, this will reduce the burden on infrastructure. This will reduce security threats to the European continent, this will keep the war localised’.”&nbsp;In line with this and without giving any specific details, Podolyak said, “Therefore, firstly, negotiations are already under way. Secondly, negotiations are proceeding at an accelerated pace.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his evening video address, Zelensky said, “Ukraine needs long-range missiles...to deprive the occupier of the opportunity to place its missile launchers somewhere far from the front line and destroy Ukrainian cities.” The Ukrainian president also said that the country needs US-made ATACMS missiles which have a range of 297 km, however, Washington has so far declined to provide the weapon, reported Reuters. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-3-killed-14-injured-in-russian-strike-on-residential-complex-in-east-ukraine-556928">Russia-Ukraine war: 3 killed, 14 injured in Russian strike on residential complex in East Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>“Ukraine is only at the stage of negotiations regarding aircraft. Aircraft models and their number are currently being determined,”&nbsp;said Ukrainian air force spokesperson Yuri Ihnat, as per Reuters in clarification of his previous remarks which he said had been misinterpreted. He also said that F-16s might be the best option as a multi-role fighter to replace Kyiv’s ageing Soviet-era warplanes.</p>

<p>Notably, the recent announcement about sending tanks to Ukraine made by the West not only garnered warnings and criticism from the Kremlin and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-condemns-us-over-abrams-tanks-556852">North Korea</a>, but also from European Union member Hungary.<br />
<br />
On Friday, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said that while providing weapons and money to assist Ukraine, they have “drifted” into becoming active participants in the ongoing conflict, as per AP. Orban has previously refused to send weapons to its neighbouring Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-steps-up-strikes-across-ukraine-556538">Russia steps up strikes across Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>Following his remarks, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said it would summon Hungary’s ambassador over their PM’s remarks. “Such statements are completely unacceptable. Budapest continues on its course to deliberately destroy Ukrainian-Hungarian relations,”&nbsp;said the ministry spokesperson, Oleg Nikolenko, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Deputy White House National Security Adviser, Jon Finer on Thursday said that Washington will “very carefully” consider and discuss the idea of sending jets to Ukraine with its allies. On the other hand, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, last week in an interview said that the country has “ruled out” the idea of sending jets to Ukraine as they are “much more complex systems” compared to tanks and the decision would lead the country to “venture into dimensions that I would currently warn against”, reported Reuters. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


In a recent interview, Ukraine’s presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak said that Kyiv and its Western allies are in the midst of negotiating for long-range missiles and fighter jets to push back Russian forces.

In a recent interview, Ukraine’s presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak said that Kyiv and its Western allies are in the midst of negotiating for long-range missiles and fighter jets to push back Russian forces. The top aide to President Volodymyr Zelensky also spoke about how their Western allies have been “conservative” about arms deliveries as they fear changes in the “international architecture” amid the ongoing conflict, reported the Associated Press. “To drastically reduce the Russian army’s key weapon — the artillery they use today on the front lines — we need missiles that will destroy their depots,” said Podolyak to the country’s Freedom channel, as per Reuters. This comes after Washington and Berlin along with several other European countries announced that they would send their advanced battle tanks, German-made Leopard 2 tanks and US-made M1 Abrams to Ukraine. In reference to Russia’s weapon depots, the Ukrainian top aide claimed that there were more than 100 artillery warehouses in the Moscow-occupied Crimean Peninsula. “We need to work with this. We must show (our partners) the real picture of this war,” said the Ukrainian official, without mentioning any particular countries. ALSO READ | Ukraine slaps sanctions against Russian, Belarusian companies He added, “We must speak reasonably and tell them, for example, ‘This and this will reduce fatalities, this will reduce the burden on infrastructure. This will reduce security threats to the European continent, this will keep the war localised’.” In line with this and without giving any specific details, Podolyak said, “Therefore, firstly, negotiations are already under way. Secondly, negotiations are proceeding at an accelerated pace.” In his evening video address, Zelensky said, “Ukraine needs long-range missiles...to deprive the occupier of the opportunity to place its missile launchers somewhere far from the front line and destroy Ukrainian cities.” The Ukrainian president also said that the country needs US-made ATACMS missiles which have a range of 297 km, however, Washington has so far declined to provide the weapon, reported Reuters. ALSO WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: 3 killed, 14 injured in Russian strike on residential complex in East Ukraine “Ukraine is only at the stage of negotiations regarding aircraft. Aircraft models and their number are currently being determined,” said Ukrainian air force spokesperson Yuri Ihnat, as per Reuters in clarification of his previous remarks which he said had been misinterpreted. He also said that F-16s might be the best option as a multi-role fighter to replace Kyiv’s ageing Soviet-era warplanes. Notably, the recent announcement about sending tanks to Ukraine made by the West not only garnered warnings and criticism from the Kremlin and North Korea, but also from European Union member Hungary. On Friday, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said that while providing weapons and money to assist Ukraine, they have “drifted” into becoming active participants in the ongoing conflict, as per AP. Orban has previously refused to send weapons to its neighbouring Kyiv. ALSO WATCH | Russia steps up strikes across Ukraine Following his remarks, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said it would summon Hungary’s ambassador over their PM’s remarks. “Such statements are completely unacceptable. Budapest continues on its course to deliberately destroy Ukrainian-Hungarian relations,” said the ministry spokesperson, Oleg Nikolenko, in a statement. Meanwhile, Deputy White House National Security Adviser, Jon Finer on Thursday said that Washington will “very carefully” consider and discuss the idea of sending jets to Ukraine with its allies. On the other hand, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, last week in an interview said that the country has “ruled out” the idea of sending jets to Ukraine as they are “much more complex systems” compared to tanks and the decision would lead the country to “venture into dimensions that I would currently warn against”, reported Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kyiv in talks with Western allies for long-range missiles, fighter jets: Ukrainian official

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidiDYWbVsQzJrU" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p>Russia on Saturday (January 28) claimed that at least 14 people were killed and 24 were injured in the Ukrainian strike in the eastern Lugansk region. The Russian defence ministry said that the strikes were at a hospital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the defence ministry said that on Saturday morning in the town of Novoaidar, the Ukrainian forces "deliberately attacked the building of a district hospital with rockets of a US-made HIMARS multiple launch rocket system".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry added that 14 were killed and 24 wounded among the "hospital patients and medical staff".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-alleges-us-of-training-ukrainian-it-army-recruiting-hackers-556807">Russia accuses US of training ‘Ukrainian IT Army’, recruiting hackers for cyberattacks</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-condemns-us-over-abrams-tanks-556852/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Meanwhile, a Ukrainian official said that three people were killed and at least two others wounded following a Russian strike on the city of Konstantynivka in eastern Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The local governor said that emergency services, rescue workers and police were at the scene to help people. They were "documenting yet another crime by the Russian occupiers on our land".&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="uk">3 загиблих, 2 поранених — спустошливі наслідки ранкового обстрілу Костянтинівки.<br />
<br />
Кожен, хто досі залишається в місті, наражає себе на смертельну небезпеку — росіяни б'ють по цивільних, бо не здатні боротися з української армією.<br />
<br />
Евакуюйтесь!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StopRussia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StopRussia</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaKillsCivilians?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaKillsCivilians</a> <a href="https://t.co/aG7ZvwkGSJ">pic.twitter.com/aG7ZvwkGSJ</a></p>
— Павло Кириленко (@Pavlo_Kyrylenko) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pavlo_Kyrylenko/status/1619309456118120448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Donetsk regional governor Pavlo Kyrylenko said on social media: "The Russians fired at a residential neighbourhood, damaged four multi-storey buildings, a hotel, garages and civilian cars." He added, "Three civilians were killed. At least two were wounded."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russia on Saturday (January 28) claimed that at least 14 people were killed and 24 were injured in the Ukrainian strike in the eastern Lugansk region. The Russian defence ministry said that the strikes were at a hospital. In a statement, the defence ministry said that on Saturday morning in the town of Novoaidar, the Ukrainian forces "deliberately attacked the building of a district hospital with rockets of a US-made HIMARS multiple launch rocket system". The ministry added that 14 were killed and 24 wounded among the "hospital patients and medical staff". ALSO READ | Russia accuses US of training ‘Ukrainian IT Army’, recruiting hackers for cyberattacks Watch this report: × Meanwhile, a Ukrainian official said that three people were killed and at least two others wounded following a Russian strike on the city of Konstantynivka in eastern Ukraine. The local governor said that emergency services, rescue workers and police were at the scene to help people. They were "documenting yet another crime by the Russian occupiers on our land". 3 загиблих, 2 поранених — спустошливі наслідки ранкового обстрілу Костянтинівки. Кожен, хто досі залишається в місті, наражає себе на смертельну небезпеку — росіяни б'ють по цивільних, бо не здатні боротися з української армією. Евакуюйтесь!#StopRussia#RussiaKillsCivilians pic.twitter.com/aG7ZvwkGSJ — Павло Кириленко (@Pavlo_Kyrylenko) January 28, 2023 × Donetsk regional governor Pavlo Kyrylenko said on social media: "The Russians fired at a residential neighbourhood, damaged four multi-storey buildings, a hotel, garages and civilian cars." He added, "Three civilians were killed. At least two were wounded." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow claims 14 killed in Ukraine strike on hospital