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<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>In a statement quoted by news agencies, the FSB security service said that Russia detained eight suspects on Wednesday (October 12) over the deadly explosion of the bridge linking Crimea to Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The blast on Saturday killed at least three people and angered Moscow as the Kerch bridge is logistically crucial for Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is a key transport link for moving military equipment to Russian soldiers who are fighting in Ukraine. The bridge is also quite symbolic as it was inaugurated by Russian President Vladimir Putin personally in 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-xi-jinping-to-attend-next-months-apec-summit-joe-biden-to-skip-reports-524667">Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping to attend APEC summit in Bangkok next month, Joe Biden to skip: Reports</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Moscow blamed Kyiv for the explosion and launched missile attacks on Monday across Ukraine, killing at least 19 people and injuring more than 100.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement by the FSB security service mentioned that "explosives were hidden in 22 plastic film rolls weighing 22,770 kilograms". Among eight suspects, five Russians and "three Ukrainian and Armenian citizens" were included. The authorities didn't reveal their identity.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US President Joe Biden slams Russia for missile strikes across Ukraine&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainians-among-eight-suspects-detained-by-russia-over-crimea-bridge-blast-524714">Ukrainians among eight suspects detained by Russia over Crimea bridge blast</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>According to the FSB, the rolls were left on a boat in August from the Ukrainian port of Odessa to Bulgaria. They then transited through the port of Poti in Georgia, then sent overland to Armenia before arriving by road in Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The agency also revealed that the explosives entered Russia on October 4 in a truck with Georgian license plates and reached the region of Krasnodar on October 6, two days before the blasts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Calling it a "terrorist attack", FSB reiterated Russia's stand and said that it was organised by Ukrainian secret services, with a Kyiv agent having coordinated the transit of the explosives.&nbsp;</p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. In a statement quoted by news agencies, the FSB security service said that Russia detained eight suspects on Wednesday (October 12) over the deadly explosion of the bridge linking Crimea to Russia. The blast on Saturday killed at least three people and angered Moscow as the Kerch bridge is logistically crucial for Russia. It is a key transport link for moving military equipment to Russian soldiers who are fighting in Ukraine. The bridge is also quite symbolic as it was inaugurated by Russian President Vladimir Putin personally in 2018. ALSO READ | Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping to attend APEC summit in Bangkok next month, Joe Biden to skip: Reports Moscow blamed Kyiv for the explosion and launched missile attacks on Monday across Ukraine, killing at least 19 people and injuring more than 100. The statement by the FSB security service mentioned that "explosives were hidden in 22 plastic film rolls weighing 22,770 kilograms". Among eight suspects, five Russians and "three Ukrainian and Armenian citizens" were included. The authorities didn't reveal their identity. WATCH | US President Joe Biden slams Russia for missile strikes across Ukraine × ALSO READ | Ukrainians among eight suspects detained by Russia over Crimea bridge blast According to the FSB, the rolls were left on a boat in August from the Ukrainian port of Odessa to Bulgaria. They then transited through the port of Poti in Georgia, then sent overland to Armenia before arriving by road in Russia. The agency also revealed that the explosives entered Russia on October 4 in a truck with Georgian license plates and reached the region of Krasnodar on October 6, two days before the blasts. Calling it a "terrorist attack", FSB reiterated Russia's stand and said that it was organised by Ukrainian secret services, with a Kyiv agent having coordinated the transit of the explosives. 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.

Ukrainians among eight suspects detained by Russia over Crimea bridge blast

<p>Hong Kong reiterated its stand on the luxury megayacht—linked to a sanctioned Russian oligarch—that is docked in its waters. Hong Kong leader John Lee told reporters on Tuesday (October 11) that the city has "no legal basis" to act on Western sanctions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media reports have noted that the vessel named Nord, belongs to billionaire Alexei Mordashov. He is one of the Russian oligarchs, who have been sanctioned by the United States, the European Union, and Britain as a result of the invasion of Ukraine. Mordashov is said to be close to President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-nkorea-ramps-up-missile-tests-south-korean-president-says-it-has-nothing-to-gain-from-nuclear-weapons-524275">As N.Korea ramps up missile tests, South Korean President says it has 'nothing to gain from nuclear weapons'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Regarding the luxury yacht, The US State Department criticised Hong Kong authorities for allowing it to dock in Hong Kong waters last week. The US said that the use of Hong Kong by individuals evading sanctions from multiple jurisdictions could carry reputational risks and call into question the "transparency" of the financial hub's business environment. &nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the US, using Hong Kong to evade sanctions from several jurisdictions might have the danger of damaging their reputations and casting doubt over the "transparency" of the financial hub's business environment.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Elon Musk's solution for China-Taiwan conflict&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-use-of-technology-is-a-threat-to-global-security-warns-uk-spy-chief-524268">China's use of technology is a threat to global security, warns UK spy chief</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Now Lee said that "we cannot do anything that has no legal basis." He&nbsp;added that Hong Kong instead would only abide by UN sanctions. "We will comply with United Nations sanctions, that is our system, that is our rule of law," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mordashov is a Russian billionaire, who is among a number of Russian oligarchs sanctioned by the European Union and the United States. But he was not United Nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the 465-foot yacht was spotted prominently berthed in waters west of Hong Kong's famous Victoria Harbour, despite a number of Russian superyachts having been impounded or denied admission in Europe and other jurisdictions. Reports have stated that it is worth more than $500 million.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Hong Kong reiterated its stand on the luxury megayacht—linked to a sanctioned Russian oligarch—that is docked in its waters. Hong Kong leader John Lee told reporters on Tuesday (October 11) that the city has "no legal basis" to act on Western sanctions.

Hong Kong reiterated its stand on the luxury megayacht—linked to a sanctioned Russian oligarch—that is docked in its waters. Hong Kong leader John Lee told reporters on Tuesday (October 11) that the city has "no legal basis" to act on Western sanctions. Media reports have noted that the vessel named Nord, belongs to billionaire Alexei Mordashov. He is one of the Russian oligarchs, who have been sanctioned by the United States, the European Union, and Britain as a result of the invasion of Ukraine. Mordashov is said to be close to President Vladimir Putin. ALSO READ | As N.Korea ramps up missile tests, South Korean President says it has 'nothing to gain from nuclear weapons' Regarding the luxury yacht, The US State Department criticised Hong Kong authorities for allowing it to dock in Hong Kong waters last week. The US said that the use of Hong Kong by individuals evading sanctions from multiple jurisdictions could carry reputational risks and call into question the "transparency" of the financial hub's business environment. According to the US, using Hong Kong to evade sanctions from several jurisdictions might have the danger of damaging their reputations and casting doubt over the "transparency" of the financial hub's business environment. WATCH | Gravitas: Elon Musk's solution for China-Taiwan conflict × ALSO READ | China's use of technology is a threat to global security, warns UK spy chief Now Lee said that "we cannot do anything that has no legal basis." He added that Hong Kong instead would only abide by UN sanctions. "We will comply with United Nations sanctions, that is our system, that is our rule of law," he said. Mordashov is a Russian billionaire, who is among a number of Russian oligarchs sanctioned by the European Union and the United States. But he was not United Nations. Meanwhile, the 465-foot yacht was spotted prominently berthed in waters west of Hong Kong's famous Victoria Harbour, despite a number of Russian superyachts having been impounded or denied admission in Europe and other jurisdictions. Reports have stated that it is worth more than $500 million. (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.

On Russian superyacht linked to Putin ally, Hong Kong leader says 'no legal basis' to act on the vessel

Very rare moment amid Ukraine war: Russian and US troops pose for pictures, exchange greetings on Syrian soil

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<p>In the aftermath of an explosion that damaged the bridge linking Russia and Crimea, the former has mounted aggressive missile attacks on Ukraine. Consequently, allies US and Germany have stepped up and promised to rush air defence systems to Kyiv's rescue.</p>

<p>Reportedly, US President Joe Biden on Monday talked to his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky and pledged to continue providing support, including advanced air defence systems.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-live-updates-three-loud-blasts-rock-kyiv-report-523917"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Ukraine war LIVE | Zelensky holds 'productive' talks with Biden</strong></a></p>

<p>Zelensky took to Telegram after the conversation and informed that 'air defence systems' remained priority number one.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Had a productive conversation with US President Joe Biden. The main topic of discussion was air defense. Currently, this is the number 1 priority in our defense cooperation. America's leadership with the G7's tough stance and with support for our UN GA resolution is very important for Ukraine," he wrote on his social media feed.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Productive conversation with <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>. Air defense is currently the number 1 priority in our defense cooperation.<br />
We also need US leadership with the G7's tough stance and with support for our UN GA resolution.</p>
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1579547763255443456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-condemns-the-utter-brutality-of-putins-illegal-war-524189" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: US President Biden condemns ‘the utter brutality of Putin’s illegal war’</strong></a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Germany also said it will make do on its promise of providing air defence systems which have the capability to defend entire cities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock took to Twitter and informed that the government was rushing the defence systems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Residents of Kyiv in fear of death in the morning traffic. An impact crater next to a playground. It is vile &amp; unjustifiable that Putin is firing rockets at cities and civilians. We are doing everything we can to quickly reinforce Ukraine's air defences," tweeted Baerbock.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="de">Bewohner*innen von Kiew in Todesangst im Morgenverkehr. Ein Einschlagskrater neben einem Spielplatz. Es ist niederträchtig &amp; durch nichts zu rechtfertigen, dass Putin Großstädte und Zivilisten mit Raketen beschießt. Wir tun alles, um die 🇺🇦 Luftverteidigung schnell zu verstärken.</p>
— Außenministerin Annalena Baerbock (@ABaerbock) <a href="https://twitter.com/ABaerbock/status/1579423132062212096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Berlin is expected to send its Iris-T system which has a shield range spanning a height of 20 kilometres and a breadth of 40 kilometres.</p>

<p>As reported by WION, Russian President Vladimir Putin has already threatened more 'severe' attacks on Ukraine. Putin issued the warning in televised comments addressed to his security council.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-warns-of-more-severe-attacks-as-russian-missiles-pound-ukraine-524108" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Putin warns of more 'severe' attacks as Russian missiles pound Ukraine</strong></a></p>

<p>"Let there be no doubt," Putin said, "if attempts at terrorist attacks continue, the response from Russia will be severe."</p>

<p>Russia's missile strikes across Ukraine on Monday were the first major military response from Russia after the explosion on the Kerch bridge.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In the aftermath of an explosion that damaged the bridge linking Russia and Crimea, the former has mounted aggressive missile attacks on Ukraine. Consequently, allies US and Germany have stepped up and promised to rush air defence systems to Kyiv's rescue.

In the aftermath of an explosion that damaged the bridge linking Russia and Crimea, the former has mounted aggressive missile attacks on Ukraine. Consequently, allies US and Germany have stepped up and promised to rush air defence systems to Kyiv's rescue. Reportedly, US President Joe Biden on Monday talked to his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky and pledged to continue providing support, including advanced air defence systems. Read more: Ukraine war LIVE | Zelensky holds 'productive' talks with Biden Zelensky took to Telegram after the conversation and informed that 'air defence systems' remained priority number one. "Had a productive conversation with US President Joe Biden. The main topic of discussion was air defense. Currently, this is the number 1 priority in our defense cooperation. America's leadership with the G7's tough stance and with support for our UN GA resolution is very important for Ukraine," he wrote on his social media feed. Productive conversation with @POTUS. Air defense is currently the number 1 priority in our defense cooperation. We also need US leadership with the G7's tough stance and with support for our UN GA resolution. — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) October 10, 2022 × Read more: US President Biden condemns ‘the utter brutality of Putin’s illegal war’ Meanwhile, Germany also said it will make do on its promise of providing air defence systems which have the capability to defend entire cities. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock took to Twitter and informed that the government was rushing the defence systems. "Residents of Kyiv in fear of death in the morning traffic. An impact crater next to a playground. It is vile & unjustifiable that Putin is firing rockets at cities and civilians. We are doing everything we can to quickly reinforce Ukraine's air defences," tweeted Baerbock. Bewohner*innen von Kiew in Todesangst im Morgenverkehr. Ein Einschlagskrater neben einem Spielplatz. Es ist niederträchtig & durch nichts zu rechtfertigen, dass Putin Großstädte und Zivilisten mit Raketen beschießt. Wir tun alles, um die 🇺🇦 Luftverteidigung schnell zu verstärken. — Außenministerin Annalena Baerbock (@ABaerbock) October 10, 2022 × Berlin is expected to send its Iris-T system which has a shield range spanning a height of 20 kilometres and a breadth of 40 kilometres. As reported by WION, Russian President Vladimir Putin has already threatened more 'severe' attacks on Ukraine. Putin issued the warning in televised comments addressed to his security council. Read more: Putin warns of more 'severe' attacks as Russian missiles pound Ukraine "Let there be no doubt," Putin said, "if attempts at terrorist attacks continue, the response from Russia will be severe." Russia's missile strikes across Ukraine on Monday were the first major military response from Russia after the explosion on the Kerch bridge. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US, Germany promise to rush air defence systems to Ukraine as Russia pounds missiles

<p>Former United States president Donald Trump has called for an immediate "peaceful end" to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, which started this year on February 24 when Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a "special military operation" in the neighbouring country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking at a "Save America" rally in the US state of Nevada on Saturday, the former president warned that "nothing would be left of our earth all because ignorant people didn't have a clue" about the dangers of escalation and nuclear weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Trump said: "We must demand the immediate negotiation of a peaceful end to the war in Ukraine, or we will end up in World War III and there will be nothing left of our planet."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Crimea Bridge Attack: Moscow blames Kyiv for blast, Putin calls it an 'act of terrorism'&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Trump's remark comes after Biden's warning over the risk of nuclear "Armageddon", which was later clarified by the White House. Biden had said last week that the world was contending with nuclear "armageddon" for the first time in 60 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden told Democratic donors in New York that for the "first time since the Cuban missile crisis, we have a direct threat from the use of nuclear weapons if, in fact, things continue down the path they are going."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden referred to the nuclear standoff that occurred 60 years ago as a result of the Soviet Union stationing missiles in Cuba, an easy striking distance from the US. The crisis was averted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden then added that the world has "not faced the prospect of Armageddon since Kennedy and the Cuban missile crisis."&nbsp;</p>

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Former United States president Donald Trump has called for an immediate "peaceful end" to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, which started this year on February 24 when Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a "special military operation" in the neighbouring country.

Former United States president Donald Trump has called for an immediate "peaceful end" to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, which started this year on February 24 when Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a "special military operation" in the neighbouring country. While speaking at a "Save America" rally in the US state of Nevada on Saturday, the former president warned that "nothing would be left of our earth all because ignorant people didn't have a clue" about the dangers of escalation and nuclear weapons. Trump said: "We must demand the immediate negotiation of a peaceful end to the war in Ukraine, or we will end up in World War III and there will be nothing left of our planet." WATCH | Crimea Bridge Attack: Moscow blames Kyiv for blast, Putin calls it an 'act of terrorism' × Trump's remark comes after Biden's warning over the risk of nuclear "Armageddon", which was later clarified by the White House. Biden had said last week that the world was contending with nuclear "armageddon" for the first time in 60 years. Biden told Democratic donors in New York that for the "first time since the Cuban missile crisis, we have a direct threat from the use of nuclear weapons if, in fact, things continue down the path they are going." Biden referred to the nuclear standoff that occurred 60 years ago as a result of the Soviet Union stationing missiles in Cuba, an easy striking distance from the US. The crisis was averted. Biden then added that the world has "not faced the prospect of Armageddon since Kennedy and the Cuban missile crisis." 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.

Trump believes 'World War III' is a possibility, blames 'stupid people' for Russia-Ukraine conflict escalation

<p>A day after United States President Joe Biden's warning over the risk of nuclear "Armageddon", the White House has come forward to clarify the remarks. Biden had said that the risk is at the highest level since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters on Friday (October 7) that there are no indications "that Russia is preparing to imminently use nuclear weapons."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nyc-mayor-declares-state-of-emergency-over-migrant-crisis-says-at-the-edge-of-a-precipice-523415">NYC at the edge of precipice, says mayor, declares state of emergency over migrant crisis</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Karine further said that the US has seen no reason to adjust its own strategic nuclear posture and that Biden was just showing "how seriously" he is taking Russian President Vladimir Putin's rhetoric.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have not seen any reason to adjust our own strategic nuclear posture, nor do we have indications that Russia is preparing imminently to use nuclear weapons," Karine told reporters aboard Air Force One.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Blinken: US reviewing options on Saudi ties after OPEC+ cuts&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>On being asked if Biden's alarming comment reflected new intelligence, she said "no." She added, "The president was speaking about concerns about Putin's threats to use nuclear weapons."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reporters also asked the&nbsp;press secretary&nbsp;about Biden's assertion US was trying to find an "off ramp" for Putin to de-escalate in his invasion of&nbsp;Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jean-Pierre said the US position has not changed. "There is only one country responsible for this war," she said. "And that's Russia. They started this conflict and Mr Putin has the ability to stop this conflict today," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-signs-executive-order-on-us-eu-personal-data-privacy-523362">President Joe Biden signs executive order to implement US-EU data privacy framework</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>What did Biden say?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>On Thursday, Biden spoke bluntly about the risks posed by Putin's veiled threats to deploy nuclear weapons in support of Russia's stumbling bid to annex large portions of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden said that for the "first time since the Cuban missile crisis, we have a direct threat from the use of nuclear weapons if, in fact, things continue down the path they are going."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He referred to the nuclear standoff that occurred 60 years ago as a result of the Soviet Union stationing missiles in Cuba, which was within easy striking distance of the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since that time, "we have not faced the danger of Armageddon," Biden added.</p>

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A day after United States President Joe Biden's warning over the risk of nuclear "Armageddon", the White House has come forward to clarify the remarks. Biden had said that the risk is at the highest level since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.

A day after United States President Joe Biden's warning over the risk of nuclear "Armageddon", the White House has come forward to clarify the remarks. Biden had said that the risk is at the highest level since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters on Friday (October 7) that there are no indications "that Russia is preparing to imminently use nuclear weapons." ALSO READ | NYC at the edge of precipice, says mayor, declares state of emergency over migrant crisis Karine further said that the US has seen no reason to adjust its own strategic nuclear posture and that Biden was just showing "how seriously" he is taking Russian President Vladimir Putin's rhetoric. "We have not seen any reason to adjust our own strategic nuclear posture, nor do we have indications that Russia is preparing imminently to use nuclear weapons," Karine told reporters aboard Air Force One. WATCH | Blinken: US reviewing options on Saudi ties after OPEC+ cuts × On being asked if Biden's alarming comment reflected new intelligence, she said "no." She added, "The president was speaking about concerns about Putin's threats to use nuclear weapons." Reporters also asked the press secretary about Biden's assertion US was trying to find an "off ramp" for Putin to de-escalate in his invasion of Ukraine. Jean-Pierre said the US position has not changed. "There is only one country responsible for this war," she said. "And that's Russia. They started this conflict and Mr Putin has the ability to stop this conflict today," she added. ALSO READ | President Joe Biden signs executive order to implement US-EU data privacy framework What did Biden say? On Thursday, Biden spoke bluntly about the risks posed by Putin's veiled threats to deploy nuclear weapons in support of Russia's stumbling bid to annex large portions of Ukraine. Biden said that for the "first time since the Cuban missile crisis, we have a direct threat from the use of nuclear weapons if, in fact, things continue down the path they are going." He referred to the nuclear standoff that occurred 60 years ago as a result of the Soviet Union stationing missiles in Cuba, which was within easy striking distance of the United States. Since that time, "we have not faced the danger of Armageddon," Biden added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

White House clarifies Biden's 'Armageddon' remark, says no indications Russia preparing to use nukes

<p>The Swedish investigating authorities said on Thursday (October 6) that an inspection of two of the leaks at the Nord Stream gas pipelines has supported the suspicions that they were acts of sabotage. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Mats Ljungqvist, who is a public prosecutor, said in a statement: "We can conclude that there have been detonations at Nord Stream 1 and 2 in the Swedish exclusive economic zone that led to extensive damage to the gas pipelines."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ljungqvist added that the "crime scene investigation had strengthened the suspicions of aggravated sabotage. Pieces of evidence have been gathered at the crime scene and these will now be examined."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-criticises-us-for-repositioning-aircraft-carrier-near-korean-waters-calls-it-serious-threat-523032">North Korea criticises US for repositioning aircraft carrier near Korean waters, calls it 'serious threat'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>But he did not reveal details as he mentioned the confidentiality of the investigation. He said that "the issue is very sensitive."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, all four leaks are in the Baltic Sea off the Danish island of Bornholm. Two leaks were located in the Swedish exclusive economic zone, and the two others in the Danish one.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The leaks in Nord Stream gas pipelines, which link Russia to Europe, have been blamed on sabotage as many experts have also claimed that various armed forces in the region are capable of such an operation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Polish President Duda asks US leaders to consider sharing nuclear weapons&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Previously, Germany, Denmark and Sweden openly noted that they were attacks which caused gas from the two Russian-owned gas pipelines to pour into the sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even Russia has also said sabotage was a possibility and launched an "international terrorism" probe by the FSB security service.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The leaks are at the centre of an energy standoff as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which caused an energy crisis in Europe, has escalated further.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid the controversy, claims and counterclaims have been&nbsp;made as Moscow and Washington both denied involvement in the incident.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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The Swedish investigating authorities said on Thursday (October 6) that an inspection of two of the leaks at the Nord Stream gas pipelines has supported the suspicions that they were acts of sabotage.

The Swedish investigating authorities said on Thursday (October 6) that an inspection of two of the leaks at the Nord Stream gas pipelines has supported the suspicions that they were acts of sabotage. Mats Ljungqvist, who is a public prosecutor, said in a statement: "We can conclude that there have been detonations at Nord Stream 1 and 2 in the Swedish exclusive economic zone that led to extensive damage to the gas pipelines." Ljungqvist added that the "crime scene investigation had strengthened the suspicions of aggravated sabotage. Pieces of evidence have been gathered at the crime scene and these will now be examined." ALSO READ | North Korea criticises US for repositioning aircraft carrier near Korean waters, calls it 'serious threat' But he did not reveal details as he mentioned the confidentiality of the investigation. He said that "the issue is very sensitive." Notably, all four leaks are in the Baltic Sea off the Danish island of Bornholm. Two leaks were located in the Swedish exclusive economic zone, and the two others in the Danish one. The leaks in Nord Stream gas pipelines, which link Russia to Europe, have been blamed on sabotage as many experts have also claimed that various armed forces in the region are capable of such an operation. WATCH | Polish President Duda asks US leaders to consider sharing nuclear weapons × ALSO READ | Impending doom? US stocks-up, Ukraine hands out anti-radiation drug amid risk of Russian nuclear attack Previously, Germany, Denmark and Sweden openly noted that they were attacks which caused gas from the two Russian-owned gas pipelines to pour into the sea. Even Russia has also said sabotage was a possibility and launched an "international terrorism" probe by the FSB security service. The leaks are at the centre of an energy standoff as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which caused an energy crisis in Europe, has escalated further. Amid the controversy, claims and counterclaims have been made as Moscow and Washington both denied involvement in the incident. 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.

Sweden says site inspection of four Nord Stream leaks points to 'sabotage'

Russian President Vladimir Putin has formalized the claimed annexation of four Ukrainian regions. He signed legislation formally including those regions into Russia.

Russia-Ukraine war: Putin formally annexes 15% of Ukraine

<p>Amid the escalating tensions between Russia and the United States over the Ukraine war, a SpaceX spacecraft bound for the International Space Station (ISS) was launched on Wednesday (October 5) carrying a Russian crewmate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Crew-5 mission, which also comprises one Japanese and two American astronauts, added Anna Kikina, the only woman in active service as a cosmonaut.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moments before liftoff from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida at noon, Crew-5 mission commander Nicole Mann, the first Native American in space, said: "Let's do this".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Almost two weeks ago, a Russian Soyuz rocket carried an American astronaut to the orbital platform. Despite the rising tensions between the US and Russia since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February, the planned astronaut exchange programme has continued.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/more-accurate-reliable-and-happier-robo-arm-make-better-french-fries-and-onion-rings-than-humans-522663">'More accurate, reliable, and happier': Robo arm makes better french fries and onion rings than humans</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We're on our way to space!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Crew5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Crew5</a> lifted off from <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAKennedy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASAKennedy</a> at noon ET (1600 UTC) and is headed to the <a href="https://twitter.com/Space_Station?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Space_Station</a> for six months of scientific discovery. <a href="https://t.co/p2AvbIzo9V">pic.twitter.com/p2AvbIzo9V</a></p>
— NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1577690646655156226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Past <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpaceX</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Commercial_Crew?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Commercial_Crew</a> missions have seen all sorts of zero gravity indicators — dinosaurs, turtles, even baby Yoda. What do you think today's will be? <a href="https://t.co/P1kkR4fKjp">pic.twitter.com/P1kkR4fKjp</a></p>
— NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1577661949873201154?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>This collaboration ensures the operation of the ISS, which has become one of the few remaining areas of cooperation between the US and Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NASA associate administrator Kathy Lueders told reporters in a recent press conference: "When you each are flying other's crew members, you know that you have a huge responsibility that you're promising to the other country."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lueders added, "At a working level, we really appreciated the constancy in the relationship, even during some really, really tough times geopolitically."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH:&nbsp;US manufacturing growth slows to lowest since May 2020, says survey&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Who is Anna Kikina?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The 38-year-old Kikina is an engineer by training and will become the fifth Russian female professional cosmonaut to go into space.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Novosibirsk native told AFP in August: "I hope in the near future we have more women in the cosmonaut corps."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kikina will also be the first Russian to fly with Elon Musk's SpaceX which, along with Boeing, has a "taxi service" contract with NASA.&nbsp;</p>

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Amid the escalating tensions between Russia and the United States over the Ukraine war, a SpaceX spacecraft bound for the International Space Station (ISS) was launched on Wednesday (October 5) carrying a Russian crewmate.

Amid the escalating tensions between Russia and the United States over the Ukraine war, a SpaceX spacecraft bound for the International Space Station (ISS) was launched on Wednesday (October 5) carrying a Russian crewmate. The Crew-5 mission, which also comprises one Japanese and two American astronauts, added Anna Kikina, the only woman in active service as a cosmonaut. Moments before liftoff from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida at noon, Crew-5 mission commander Nicole Mann, the first Native American in space, said: "Let's do this". Almost two weeks ago, a Russian Soyuz rocket carried an American astronaut to the orbital platform. Despite the rising tensions between the US and Russia since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February, the planned astronaut exchange programme has continued. ALSO READ | 'More accurate, reliable, and happier': Robo arm makes better french fries and onion rings than humans We're on our way to space!#Crew5 lifted off from @NASAKennedy at noon ET (1600 UTC) and is headed to the @Space_Station for six months of scientific discovery. pic.twitter.com/p2AvbIzo9V — NASA (@NASA) October 5, 2022 × Past @SpaceX @Commercial_Crew missions have seen all sorts of zero gravity indicators — dinosaurs, turtles, even baby Yoda. What do you think today's will be? pic.twitter.com/P1kkR4fKjp — NASA (@NASA) October 5, 2022 × This collaboration ensures the operation of the ISS, which has become one of the few remaining areas of cooperation between the US and Russia. NASA associate administrator Kathy Lueders told reporters in a recent press conference: "When you each are flying other's crew members, you know that you have a huge responsibility that you're promising to the other country." Lueders added, "At a working level, we really appreciated the constancy in the relationship, even during some really, really tough times geopolitically." WATCH: US manufacturing growth slows to lowest since May 2020, says survey × Who is Anna Kikina? The 38-year-old Kikina is an engineer by training and will become the fifth Russian female professional cosmonaut to go into space. The Novosibirsk native told AFP in August: "I hope in the near future we have more women in the cosmonaut corps." Kikina will also be the first Russian to fly with Elon Musk's SpaceX which, along with Boeing, has a "taxi service" contract with NASA. 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.

Amid US-Russia unease over Ukraine war, SpaceX spaceship takes Russian cosmonaut to ISS

<p>Andrei Kartapolov, a senior Russian lawmaker called on military officials to tell the truth about developments on the ground in Ukraine following the string of bruising defeats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kartapolov, who is the chairman of the lower house of parliament's defence committee, told a journalist from state-run media that "we need to stop lying."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The reports of the defence ministry do not change. The people know. Our people are not stupid. This can lead to loss of credibility," Kartapolov added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-open-to-host-nuclear-weapons-on-its-soil-to-deter-russia-reports-522764">Poland approached US with offer to host its nuclear weapons: Reports</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The ongoing Ukraine war has taken a new turn after Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law to add four partially occupied Ukrainian regions into Russia on Wednesday. The move was condemned globally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Kyiv called it an act of a "collective madhouse" as the European nation claimed that the Russian forces have been fleeing from the front lines.</p>

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<p>Meanwhile, Putin on Wednesday said that he expected the situation to "stabilise" in Ukrainian regions annexed by the Kremlin after Moscow suffered military setbacks and lost several key towns to Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian president also ordered his government to seize control over Europe's largest nuclear power plant in the Russian-controlled region of Zaporizhzhia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/amid-the-ukraine-war-spacex-spaceship-flys-russian-cosmonaut-to-iss-522796">Amid the Ukraine war, SpaceX spaceship takes Russian cosmonaut to ISS</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>During a televised video call with Russian teachers, Putin said, "We are working on the assumption that the situation in the new territories will stabilise." The Russian president also said that the results of the referendums to join Russia organised by Moscow in regions captured by its army were "more than convincing."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "In all honesty, the results of the referendum not only pleased me, but also surprised me. They are not subject to any doubt."&nbsp;</p>

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Andrei Kartapolov, a senior Russian lawmaker called on military officials to tell the truth about developments on the ground in Ukraine following the string of bruising defeats.

Andrei Kartapolov, a senior Russian lawmaker called on military officials to tell the truth about developments on the ground in Ukraine following the string of bruising defeats. Kartapolov, who is the chairman of the lower house of parliament's defence committee, told a journalist from state-run media that "we need to stop lying." "The reports of the defence ministry do not change. The people know. Our people are not stupid. This can lead to loss of credibility," Kartapolov added. ALSO READ | Poland approached US with offer to host its nuclear weapons: Reports The ongoing Ukraine war has taken a new turn after Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law to add four partially occupied Ukrainian regions into Russia on Wednesday. The move was condemned globally. But Kyiv called it an act of a "collective madhouse" as the European nation claimed that the Russian forces have been fleeing from the front lines. × Meanwhile, Putin on Wednesday said that he expected the situation to "stabilise" in Ukrainian regions annexed by the Kremlin after Moscow suffered military setbacks and lost several key towns to Kyiv. The Russian president also ordered his government to seize control over Europe's largest nuclear power plant in the Russian-controlled region of Zaporizhzhia. ALSO READ | Amid the Ukraine war, SpaceX spaceship takes Russian cosmonaut to ISS During a televised video call with Russian teachers, Putin said, "We are working on the assumption that the situation in the new territories will stabilise." The Russian president also said that the results of the referendums to join Russia organised by Moscow in regions captured by its army were "more than convincing." He added, "In all honesty, the results of the referendum not only pleased me, but also surprised me. They are not subject to any doubt." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'We need to stop lying': Russian lawmaker tells military to say the truth about Ukraine defeats

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<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>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday (October 2) that the success of the country's soldiers is not limited to the recapture of Lyman as he said that some towns in the Kherson region have also been liberated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The story of the liberation of Lyman in the Donetsk region has now become the most popular in the media. But the successes of our soldiers are not limited to Lyman," said Zelensky during his nightly address as reported by news agency Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although, the Ukrainian president didn't provide any details.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/restoration-of-nord-stream-possible-says-russia-deputy-pm-report-521822">Restoration of ruptured Nord Stream pipelines possible, says Russia deputy PM</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>According to Zelensky, the Ukrainian military has liberated the small settlements of Arkhanhelske and Myrolyubivka in the Kherson area. He thanked the army units for their "success" and also for distinguishing themselves on the frontline.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"[I am grateful] to the soldiers of the 129th brigade of my native Kryvyi Rih, who distinguished themselves with good results and liberated, in particular, Arkhanhelske and Myrolyubivka," Zelensky said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🗺️🇺🇦 Soldiers of Ukrainian 129th Territorial Defense Brigade, in cooperation with other units, liberated Arkhanhelske in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kherson?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kherson</a> Oblast, says Zelensky during his evening address.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UkraineRussiaWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UkraineRussiaWar</a> <a href="https://t.co/yVADTMbVMK">pic.twitter.com/yVADTMbVMK</a></p>
— MilitaryLand.net (@Militarylandnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Militarylandnet/status/1576676322301992960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Zelenskiy has confirmed that <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Arkhanhelske?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Arkhanhelske</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Myroliubivka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Myroliubivka</a> have been liberated :DD <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UkraineRussiaWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UkraineRussiaWar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kherson?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kherson</a> <a href="https://t.co/y7spCGF97P">pic.twitter.com/y7spCGF97P</a></p>
— schizo (@creepergobarman) <a href="https://twitter.com/creepergobarman/status/1576692465473421312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Abduction of Ukrainian nuclear plant head</strong></p>

<p>He further said that the kidnapping of the director general of the Russian-occupied nuclear power facility in the Zaporizhzhia region was an act of Russian terrorism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per reports, Ihor Murashov was taken into custody by a Russian patrol on Friday (September 30). The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) claimed Russia had confirmed the action.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-at-least-92-people-reportedly-killed-during-protests-over-mahsa-aminis-death-521886">Iran: At least 92 people reportedly killed during protests over Amini's death</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The head of the UN nuclear watchdog also called for the release of Murashov, and stated that his detention posed a threat to safety and security.&nbsp;</p>

<p>the agency tweeted late on Saturday: "IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi expressed the hope that Mr Murashov will return to his family safely and promptly and will be able to resume his important functions at the plant."&nbsp;</p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday (October 2) that the success of the country's soldiers is not limited to the recapture of Lyman as he said that some towns in the Kherson region have also been liberated. "The story of the liberation of Lyman in the Donetsk region has now become the most popular in the media. But the successes of our soldiers are not limited to Lyman," said Zelensky during his nightly address as reported by news agency Reuters. Although, the Ukrainian president didn't provide any details. ALSO READ | Restoration of ruptured Nord Stream pipelines possible, says Russia deputy PM According to Zelensky, the Ukrainian military has liberated the small settlements of Arkhanhelske and Myrolyubivka in the Kherson area. He thanked the army units for their "success" and also for distinguishing themselves on the frontline. "[I am grateful] to the soldiers of the 129th brigade of my native Kryvyi Rih, who distinguished themselves with good results and liberated, in particular, Arkhanhelske and Myrolyubivka," Zelensky said. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. 🗺️🇺🇦 Soldiers of Ukrainian 129th Territorial Defense Brigade, in cooperation with other units, liberated Arkhanhelske in #Kherson Oblast, says Zelensky during his evening address.#UkraineRussiaWar pic.twitter.com/yVADTMbVMK — MilitaryLand.net (@Militarylandnet) October 2, 2022 × Zelenskiy has confirmed that #Arkhanhelske and #Myroliubivka have been liberated :DD #Ukraine #UkraineRussiaWar #Kherson pic.twitter.com/y7spCGF97P — schizo (@creepergobarman) October 2, 2022 × Abduction of Ukrainian nuclear plant head He further said that the kidnapping of the director general of the Russian-occupied nuclear power facility in the Zaporizhzhia region was an act of Russian terrorism. As per reports, Ihor Murashov was taken into custody by a Russian patrol on Friday (September 30). The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) claimed Russia had confirmed the action. ALSO READ | Iran: At least 92 people reportedly killed during protests over Amini's death The head of the UN nuclear watchdog also called for the release of Murashov, and stated that his detention posed a threat to safety and security. the agency tweeted late on Saturday: "IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi expressed the hope that Mr Murashov will return to his family safely and promptly and will be able to resume his important functions at the plant." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zelensky says Ukrainian soldiers' success 'not limited to Lyman', claims forces liberated Kherson towns

<p>President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (October 1) promised that his Ukrainian military will retake more areas from Russian forces in the country's eastern Donbas region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his evening address, Zelensky said: "Throughout this week, more Ukrainian flags have been raised in the Donbas. There will be even more in a week."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky's remarks came after Kyiv declared that its troops had started advancing into the vital eastern town of Lyman and the defence ministry tweeted a video of soldiers there hoisting the yellow and blue flag of Ukraine. He also added that although the Ukrainian flag was flying in the city, "fighting is still going on there".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chechen-leader-kadyrov-russia-should-use-low-yield-nuclear-weapon-after-new-defeat-in-ukraine-521614">Chechen leader Kadyrov: Russia should use low-yield nuclear weapon after new defeat in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;World at War: Russia annexes parts of Ukraine, even as it loses on the battlefield&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, Russia on Saturday said that its troops had abandoned the key bastion of Lyman. But the Russian defence ministry said it had "withdrawn" troops from the town "to more favourable lines".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In connection with the creation of a threat of encirclement, allied troops were withdrawn from the settlement of Krasny Liman to more advantageous lines," Russia's defence ministry said, using the Russian name of the town.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his address, Zelensky told Russians they would be "killed one by one" as long as President Vladimir Putin, who ordered the invasion of Ukraine in February, remained in power.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Until you all solve the problem with the one who started it all, who started this senseless war against Ukraine, you will be killed one by one," he said, calling the war "a historic mistake for Russia".&nbsp;</p>

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President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (October 1) promised that his Ukrainian military will retake more areas from Russian forces in the country's eastern Donbas region.

President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (October 1) promised that his Ukrainian military will retake more areas from Russian forces in the country's eastern Donbas region. In his evening address, Zelensky said: "Throughout this week, more Ukrainian flags have been raised in the Donbas. There will be even more in a week." Zelensky's remarks came after Kyiv declared that its troops had started advancing into the vital eastern town of Lyman and the defence ministry tweeted a video of soldiers there hoisting the yellow and blue flag of Ukraine. He also added that although the Ukrainian flag was flying in the city, "fighting is still going on there". ALSO READ | Chechen leader Kadyrov: Russia should use low-yield nuclear weapon after new defeat in Ukraine WATCH | World at War: Russia annexes parts of Ukraine, even as it loses on the battlefield × Meanwhile, Russia on Saturday said that its troops had abandoned the key bastion of Lyman. But the Russian defence ministry said it had "withdrawn" troops from the town "to more favourable lines". "In connection with the creation of a threat of encirclement, allied troops were withdrawn from the settlement of Krasny Liman to more advantageous lines," Russia's defence ministry said, using the Russian name of the town. During his address, Zelensky told Russians they would be "killed one by one" as long as President Vladimir Putin, who ordered the invasion of Ukraine in February, remained in power. "Until you all solve the problem with the one who started it all, who started this senseless war against Ukraine, you will be killed one by one," he said, calling the war "a historic mistake for Russia". 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.

President Volodymyr Zelensky promises to retake more of eastern Ukraine

<p>Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins's party was headed for victory in&nbsp;Latvia's general election on Saturday, according to an exit poll which also showed major setbacks for parties representing the Baltic state's large Russian-speaking minority.</p>

<p>The poll put Karins's New Unity in first place with 22.5 percent and said Harmony, a social-democratic party that has won the vote in recent years, could fail to make the threshold for entering parliament.</p>

<p>Latvians voted in the shadow of neighbouring Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with many concerned about Russian aggression and expansionism.</p>

<p>National security and support for Ukraine were key issues for many voters, as well as the need for stability in this country of 1.8 million people on the eastern edge of the European Union and NATO.</p>

<p>"The election results look rather promising for my own party but it's a little early to say," Karins told reporters after polls closed.</p>

<p>Regarding Russian threats, Karins said: "Neither I nor my government nor my country reacts on fear.</p>

<p>"We will continue to invest in our own defence as a NATO member state," he added.</p>

<p>Karins said he expected the consultations on forming a new government to begin on Monday.</p>

<p>Political expert Marcis Krastins said Karins was "most likely" to win, depending on how many smaller parties supporting him&nbsp;get past the five percent threshold for entering parliament.</p>

<p>"Russians invading Ukraine helps Karins to secure voters in&nbsp;Latvia&nbsp;because in such times people tend to rally around the flag," Krastins said.</p>

<p>The exit poll showed the United List, which includes the Greens and regional parties, coming in second place with 11.5 percent followed by the Green Farmers Union with 10.9 percent and National Alliance with 8.4 percent.</p>

<p>According to the exit poll, only one party representing the Russian-speaking minority, called Stability!, would scrape past the threshold to enter parliament with 5.4 percent.</p>

<p>The minority makes up around 30 percent of the population.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Solidarity with Ukraine&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>One voter said he made his decision based on the conflict raging nearby.</p>

<p>"I am 83 years old, I lived through Soviet and German military occupations... I am today making my choice depending on which party supports Ukraine the most against the Russian invasion," Verners Karkliņs told AFP.</p>

<p>"People are seeing that we are already in a storm, but it will only get stronger, and it's making people think more about their future and their country's future," President Egils Levits told journalists after voting.</p>

<p>Ahead of the vote, Levits had warned people against backing politicians in the Russian-speaking community who "hesitated to clearly state who is the aggressor and who is the victim at the outset of the Russian invasion".</p>

<p>Referring to the energy crisis and economic difficulties, he had also cautioned against populists saying he was "highly sceptical of political parties and figures promising to get us out of this mess quickly and easily.</p>

<p>"I do not trust those who offer simple, and most often useless, solutions to extraordinarily complex problems," he said.</p>

<p>Dominated over the centuries by Teutonic knights, Swedes, Poles, then Russians,&nbsp;Latvia&nbsp;gained independence in 1918 before finding itself under Soviet occupation in 1944-1990.</p>

<p><strong>Identity challenged?</strong></p>

<p>Along with inhabitants of nearby Poland and their Baltic neighbours Lithuania and Estonia, many Latvians feel their country is vulnerable even though it is in the EU and NATO.</p>

<p>The outgoing government has shown strong support for Ukraine, hiked defence spending and worked towards greater energy security.</p>

<p>The Harmony party condemned Russia's invasion but has been less vocal about accusations that Russian forces are carrying out human rights atrocities.</p>

<p>Some Russian speakers in&nbsp;Latvia&nbsp;said that Latvian attitudes towards them have deteriorated since the war started and feel their linguistic and cultural identity is being challenged.</p>

<p>"In&nbsp;Latvia, Russian-speakers are in a way collateral victims of the war," said Miroslavs Mitrofanovs, co-chairman of the Latvian Russian Union party, which scored only 3.2 percent in the exit poll.</p>


Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins's party was headed for victory in Latvia's general election on Saturday, according to an exit poll which also showed major setbacks for parties representing the Baltic state's large Russian-speaking minority.

Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins's party was headed for victory in Latvia's general election on Saturday, according to an exit poll which also showed major setbacks for parties representing the Baltic state's large Russian-speaking minority. The poll put Karins's New Unity in first place with 22.5 percent and said Harmony, a social-democratic party that has won the vote in recent years, could fail to make the threshold for entering parliament. Latvians voted in the shadow of neighbouring Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with many concerned about Russian aggression and expansionism. National security and support for Ukraine were key issues for many voters, as well as the need for stability in this country of 1.8 million people on the eastern edge of the European Union and NATO. "The election results look rather promising for my own party but it's a little early to say," Karins told reporters after polls closed. Regarding Russian threats, Karins said: "Neither I nor my government nor my country reacts on fear. "We will continue to invest in our own defence as a NATO member state," he added. Karins said he expected the consultations on forming a new government to begin on Monday. Political expert Marcis Krastins said Karins was "most likely" to win, depending on how many smaller parties supporting him get past the five percent threshold for entering parliament. "Russians invading Ukraine helps Karins to secure voters in Latvia because in such times people tend to rally around the flag," Krastins said. The exit poll showed the United List, which includes the Greens and regional parties, coming in second place with 11.5 percent followed by the Green Farmers Union with 10.9 percent and National Alliance with 8.4 percent. According to the exit poll, only one party representing the Russian-speaking minority, called Stability!, would scrape past the threshold to enter parliament with 5.4 percent. The minority makes up around 30 percent of the population. Solidarity with Ukraine One voter said he made his decision based on the conflict raging nearby. "I am 83 years old, I lived through Soviet and German military occupations... I am today making my choice depending on which party supports Ukraine the most against the Russian invasion," Verners Karkliņs told AFP. "People are seeing that we are already in a storm, but it will only get stronger, and it's making people think more about their future and their country's future," President Egils Levits told journalists after voting. Ahead of the vote, Levits had warned people against backing politicians in the Russian-speaking community who "hesitated to clearly state who is the aggressor and who is the victim at the outset of the Russian invasion". Referring to the energy crisis and economic difficulties, he had also cautioned against populists saying he was "highly sceptical of political parties and figures promising to get us out of this mess quickly and easily. "I do not trust those who offer simple, and most often useless, solutions to extraordinarily complex problems," he said. Dominated over the centuries by Teutonic knights, Swedes, Poles, then Russians, Latvia gained independence in 1918 before finding itself under Soviet occupation in 1944-1990. Identity challenged? Along with inhabitants of nearby Poland and their Baltic neighbours Lithuania and Estonia, many Latvians feel their country is vulnerable even though it is in the EU and NATO. The outgoing government has shown strong support for Ukraine, hiked defence spending and worked towards greater energy security. The Harmony party condemned Russia's invasion but has been less vocal about accusations that Russian forces are carrying out human rights atrocities. Some Russian speakers in Latvia said that Latvian attitudes towards them have deteriorated since the war started and feel their linguistic and cultural identity is being challenged. "In Latvia, Russian-speakers are in a way collateral victims of the war," said Miroslavs Mitrofanovs, co-chairman of the Latvian Russian Union party, which scored only 3.2 percent in the exit poll.

Centrists set to win Latvia election in shadow of Ukraine war

<p>United States President Joe Biden said on Friday (September 30) that the explosion of the Nord Stream pipeline, which transports natural gas from Russia to western Europe, was the result of sabotage and that divers would be sent to determine "what happened."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden told reporters, "It was a deliberate act of sabotage and the Russians are pumping out disinformation and lies. We'll work with our allies to get to the bottom (of) exactly, precisely what happened."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"At the appropriate moment, when things calm down, we're going to be sending divers down to find out exactly what happened. We don't know that yet exactly," he said, adding that the United States is already working with allies to "enhance the protection of this critical infrastructure," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mr-putin-dont-misunderstand-what-im-saying-biden-warns-russian-president-vladimir-putin-521342">'Mr Putin, don't misunderstand what I'm saying': Biden warns Russian President Vladimir Putin</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The leaks in Nord Stream gas pipelines are at the centre of an energy geopolitical crisis as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which caused an energy crisis in Europe, has escalated further.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The chaos started when reports and aerial images emerged of unexplained gas leaks, preceded by two explosions, that reportedly occurred on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Claims and counterclaims have been&nbsp;made as Moscow and Washington both denied involvement in the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-annexes-four-occupied-regions-ukraine-accelerates-nato-membership-bid-521280">Putin annexes four occupied regions; Ukraine accelerates its NATO membership bid</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia annexes 15% of Ukraine; Putin attacks West as 'Satanic', hails Russian values&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday accused the West of organising blasts. At a Kremlin ceremony to annex four Russian-occupied regions of Ukraine, Putin made a speech that was broadcast on television. He said, "Sanctions are not enough for the West. They have switched to sabotage. Unbelievable, but it is a fact!"&nbsp;</p>

<p>"By organising explosions on the Nord Stream international gas pipelines that run along the bottom of the Baltic Sea, they actually started destroying European energy infrastructure," Putin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is clear to everyone who benefits from this," Putin added, without providing further details.&nbsp;</p>

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United States President Joe Biden said on Friday (September 30) that the explosion of the Nord Stream pipeline, which transports natural gas from Russia to western Europe, was the result of sabotage and that divers would be sent to determine "what happened.

United States President Joe Biden said on Friday (September 30) that the explosion of the Nord Stream pipeline, which transports natural gas from Russia to western Europe, was the result of sabotage and that divers would be sent to determine "what happened." Biden told reporters, "It was a deliberate act of sabotage and the Russians are pumping out disinformation and lies. We'll work with our allies to get to the bottom (of) exactly, precisely what happened." "At the appropriate moment, when things calm down, we're going to be sending divers down to find out exactly what happened. We don't know that yet exactly," he said, adding that the United States is already working with allies to "enhance the protection of this critical infrastructure," he added. ALSO READ | 'Mr Putin, don't misunderstand what I'm saying': Biden warns Russian President Vladimir Putin The leaks in Nord Stream gas pipelines are at the centre of an energy geopolitical crisis as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which caused an energy crisis in Europe, has escalated further. The chaos started when reports and aerial images emerged of unexplained gas leaks, preceded by two explosions, that reportedly occurred on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines on Monday. Claims and counterclaims have been made as Moscow and Washington both denied involvement in the incident. ALSO READ | Putin annexes four occupied regions; Ukraine accelerates its NATO membership bid WATCH | Russia annexes 15% of Ukraine; Putin attacks West as 'Satanic', hails Russian values × Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday accused the West of organising blasts. At a Kremlin ceremony to annex four Russian-occupied regions of Ukraine, Putin made a speech that was broadcast on television. He said, "Sanctions are not enough for the West. They have switched to sabotage. Unbelievable, but it is a fact!" "By organising explosions on the Nord Stream international gas pipelines that run along the bottom of the Baltic Sea, they actually started destroying European energy infrastructure," Putin said. "It is clear to everyone who benefits from this," Putin added, without providing further details. 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.

Divers will examine 'exactly what happened' to the Nord Stream pipeline: Joe Biden

<p>After Moscow annexed four Ukrainian territories, President Joe Biden on Friday (September 30) said that the United States and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) will not be intimidated by Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden also warned that the Western alliance would defend "every inch" of its territory. He said that Putin's irresponsible language and threats won't scare the US or its allies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In remarks at the White House, Biden said, "America and its allies are not going to be intimidated." He added that Putin is "not going to scare us."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-annexes-four-occupied-regions-ukraine-accelerates-nato-membership-bid-521280">Putin annexes four occupied regions; Ukraine accelerates its NATO membership bid</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>After that, Biden addressed the Kremlin leader directly, pointing his finger into the television camera as he warned against any attack on NATO territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "America's fully prepared, with our NATO allies, to defend every single inch of NATO territory. Mr Putin, don't misunderstand what I'm saying: every inch."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden's remarks came shortly after Putin announced in a ceremony in Moscow that Russia had annexed four additional regions of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Western-armed Ukrainian military continues to fight to retake control in those regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>LIVE | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-putin-set-to-officially-annex-occupied-ukrainian-regions-at-official-event-today-521193">After Ukraine annexation, NATO opposes Putin's 'land grab'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Putin and many of his allies have argued that now that a portion of Ukraine has been annexed by Russia, the Kremlin may lawfully use nuclear weapons to defend what it claims to be its territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden also pointed out Putin's "reckless and threats" but dismissed Friday's ceremony as a "sham routine that he put on" to show strength, while instead demonstrating that "he's struggling."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch his address here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | America &amp;its allies aren't going to be intimidated by Putin &amp;his reckless words &amp;threats. Putin's actions are a sign he's struggling... He can't seize his neighbour's territory &amp; get away with it. We'll continue to provide military equipment to Ukraine: US Pres Joe Biden <a href="https://t.co/dgjDbBXHDP">pic.twitter.com/dgjDbBXHDP</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1575921130384535552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Biden calls Russia's&nbsp;declaration&nbsp;"fraudulent"&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Biden&nbsp;called Russia's annexation declaration "fraudulent" and said Moscow was contravening international law.</p>

<p>"The United States condemns&nbsp;Russia's&nbsp;fraudulent attempt today to annex sovereign Ukrainian territory. Russia is violating international law, trampling on the United Nations Charter, and showing its contempt for peaceful nations everywhere,"&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The United States will always honour Ukraine's internationally recognised borders. We will continue to support Ukraine's efforts to regain control of its territory by strengthening its hand militarily and diplomatically, including through the $1.1 billion in additional security assistance the United States announced this week,"&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>New sanctions on Russia&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The US also announced "severe" new sanctions on Russia.&nbsp;"The United States is imposing swift and severe costs on Russia," the White House said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also announced that G7 allies support imposing "costs" on any country that backs the Kremlin's attempt to incorporate the Ukrainian regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>US announces aid&nbsp;to help Ukraine</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p>As part of a stopgap financing bill to avoid a disorderly government shutdown before a midnight deadline, the US Congress approved $12.3 billion in aid on Friday to assist Ukraine as it fights Russia's incursion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The deal allows Biden to instruct the Pentagon to deliver $3.7 billion worth of weaponry and other gear to Ukraine, as well as $3 billion for arms, supplies, and military wages.&nbsp;</p>

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After Moscow annexed four Ukrainian territories, President Joe Biden on Friday (September 30) said that the United States and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) will not be intimidated by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

After Moscow annexed four Ukrainian territories, President Joe Biden on Friday (September 30) said that the United States and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) will not be intimidated by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Biden also warned that the Western alliance would defend "every inch" of its territory. He said that Putin's irresponsible language and threats won't scare the US or its allies. In remarks at the White House, Biden said, "America and its allies are not going to be intimidated." He added that Putin is "not going to scare us." ALSO READ | Putin annexes four occupied regions; Ukraine accelerates its NATO membership bid After that, Biden addressed the Kremlin leader directly, pointing his finger into the television camera as he warned against any attack on NATO territory. He said, "America's fully prepared, with our NATO allies, to defend every single inch of NATO territory. Mr Putin, don't misunderstand what I'm saying: every inch." Biden's remarks came shortly after Putin announced in a ceremony in Moscow that Russia had annexed four additional regions of Ukraine. Meanwhile, the Western-armed Ukrainian military continues to fight to retake control in those regions. LIVE | After Ukraine annexation, NATO opposes Putin's 'land grab' Putin and many of his allies have argued that now that a portion of Ukraine has been annexed by Russia, the Kremlin may lawfully use nuclear weapons to defend what it claims to be its territory. Biden also pointed out Putin's "reckless and threats" but dismissed Friday's ceremony as a "sham routine that he put on" to show strength, while instead demonstrating that "he's struggling." Watch his address here: #WATCH | America &its allies aren't going to be intimidated by Putin &his reckless words &threats. Putin's actions are a sign he's struggling... He can't seize his neighbour's territory & get away with it. We'll continue to provide military equipment to Ukraine: US Pres Joe Biden pic.twitter.com/dgjDbBXHDP — ANI (@ANI) September 30, 2022 × Biden calls Russia's declaration "fraudulent" Biden called Russia's annexation declaration "fraudulent" and said Moscow was contravening international law. "The United States condemns Russia's fraudulent attempt today to annex sovereign Ukrainian territory. Russia is violating international law, trampling on the United Nations Charter, and showing its contempt for peaceful nations everywhere," Biden said in a statement. "The United States will always honour Ukraine's internationally recognised borders. We will continue to support Ukraine's efforts to regain control of its territory by strengthening its hand militarily and diplomatically, including through the $1.1 billion in additional security assistance the United States announced this week," Biden said. New sanctions on Russia The US also announced "severe" new sanctions on Russia. "The United States is imposing swift and severe costs on Russia," the White House said in a statement. It also announced that G7 allies support imposing "costs" on any country that backs the Kremlin's attempt to incorporate the Ukrainian regions. US announces aid to help Ukraine As part of a stopgap financing bill to avoid a disorderly government shutdown before a midnight deadline, the US Congress approved $12.3 billion in aid on Friday to assist Ukraine as it fights Russia's incursion. The deal allows Biden to instruct the Pentagon to deliver $3.7 billion worth of weaponry and other gear to Ukraine, as well as $3 billion for arms, supplies, and military wages. 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.

Not scared of Putin’s threats, will defend every inch of Ukraine, says Biden after annexation

<p>China and India abstained and Russia vetoed a Western request in the UN Security Council on Friday (September 30) to criticise its annexations of Ukrainian regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed that Moscow had seized four Ukrainian regions that had held Kremlin-organised referendums after the land had been taken by Russian forces, the United States pushed through a resolution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With multiple economic sanctions and condemnation, the United States and other Western powers want to isolate Moscow for waging a war against Ukraine, which started after Putin ordered a "special military" operation in Ukraine on February 24.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mr-putin-dont-misunderstand-what-im-saying-biden-warns-russian-president-vladimir-putin-521342">'Mr Putin, don't misunderstand what I'm saying': Biden warns Russian President Vladimir Putin</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Western powers will take the condemnation effort to the General Assembly, where every nation has a vote, where every country has a voice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Linda Thomas-Greenfield, who is the US ambassador to the United Nations, said at the start of the meeting: "This is exactly what the Security Council was made to do. Defend sovereignty, protect territorial integrity, promote peace and security."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The United Nations was built on an idea that never again would one country be allowed to take another's territory by force," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-annexes-four-occupied-regions-ukraine-accelerates-nato-membership-bid-521280">Putin annexes four occupied regions; Ukraine accelerates its NATO membership bid</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Vassily Nebenzia, the ambassador of Russia, expressed displeasure that one of the five permanent members of the Security Council with veto power had been singled out for condemnation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Do you seriously expect Russia to consider and support such a draft? And if not, then it turns out that you are intentionally pushing us to use the right of the veto in order to then wax lyrical about Russia abusing this right," Nebenzia said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia annexes 15% of Ukraine; Putin attacks West as 'Satanic', hails Russian values&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>India and China abstained&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>China, India, Brazil and Gabon abstained. China's ambassador, Zhang Jun said, "The sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries should be safeguarded."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zhang added, "China calls on all parties concerned to exercise restraint, refrain from actions that actually exacerbate tensions and leave space for a solution through diplomatic negotiations."&nbsp;</p>

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China and India abstained and Russia vetoed a Western request in the UN Security Council on Friday (September 30) to criticise its annexations of Ukrainian regions.

China and India abstained and Russia vetoed a Western request in the UN Security Council on Friday (September 30) to criticise its annexations of Ukrainian regions. Hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed that Moscow had seized four Ukrainian regions that had held Kremlin-organised referendums after the land had been taken by Russian forces, the United States pushed through a resolution. With multiple economic sanctions and condemnation, the United States and other Western powers want to isolate Moscow for waging a war against Ukraine, which started after Putin ordered a "special military" operation in Ukraine on February 24. ALSO READ | 'Mr Putin, don't misunderstand what I'm saying': Biden warns Russian President Vladimir Putin Western powers will take the condemnation effort to the General Assembly, where every nation has a vote, where every country has a voice. Linda Thomas-Greenfield, who is the US ambassador to the United Nations, said at the start of the meeting: "This is exactly what the Security Council was made to do. Defend sovereignty, protect territorial integrity, promote peace and security." "The United Nations was built on an idea that never again would one country be allowed to take another's territory by force," she said. ALSO READ | Putin annexes four occupied regions; Ukraine accelerates its NATO membership bid Vassily Nebenzia, the ambassador of Russia, expressed displeasure that one of the five permanent members of the Security Council with veto power had been singled out for condemnation. "Do you seriously expect Russia to consider and support such a draft? And if not, then it turns out that you are intentionally pushing us to use the right of the veto in order to then wax lyrical about Russia abusing this right," Nebenzia said. WATCH | Russia annexes 15% of Ukraine; Putin attacks West as 'Satanic', hails Russian values × India and China abstained China, India, Brazil and Gabon abstained. China's ambassador, Zhang Jun said, "The sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries should be safeguarded." Zhang added, "China calls on all parties concerned to exercise restraint, refrain from actions that actually exacerbate tensions and leave space for a solution through diplomatic negotiations." 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 vetoes UN bid to condemn annexations of Ukrainian territory, India and China abstain

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has recognised the independence of two Ukraine regions, the presidential decrees revealed which were issued late Thursday on the eve of Russia finalising their annexation. &nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the decree, Putin recognised the independence of the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said in the decrees that "I order the recognition of the state sovereignty and independence" of the regions of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, located in southern Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia prepares to formalise the annexation of the two regions, along with Donetsk and Lugansk on Friday. Moscow will annex all the regions at a grand ceremony in the Kremlin on Friday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-president-vladimir-putin-says-mistakes-of-military-mobilisation-should-be-corrected-521020">Putin says 'mistakes' of military mobilisation should be corrected</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that the annexation of the areas would be formalised at the ceremony and that Putin would deliver a major speech.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian president also has threatened to use nuclear weapons to defend the territories. The threats have not stopped a sweeping Ukrainian counter-offensive.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US President Joe Biden gets confused on stage, looks for dead lawmaker in crowd&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-to-formalise-annexation-of-ukraine-territory-on-friday-520903">Putin to formalise post-vote annexation of Ukraine territory, UN warns against ‘illegal’ move</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the past few days, Ukraine said it has been pushing back Russian troops in the east and is on the doorstep of the Donetsk region town of Lyman, which Moscow's forces pummelled for weeks before capturing it this summer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the United Nations Secretary-General said on Thursday that if Russia moves ahead with its plans to annex four Ukrainian regions, it would mark a "dangerous escalation".&nbsp;</p>

<p>It would also jeopardise the prospects for peace in the region.&nbsp;</p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has recognised the independence of two Ukraine regions, the presidential decrees revealed which were issued late Thursday on the eve of Russia finalising their annexation.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has recognised the independence of two Ukraine regions, the presidential decrees revealed which were issued late Thursday on the eve of Russia finalising their annexation. As per the decree, Putin recognised the independence of the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. Putin said in the decrees that "I order the recognition of the state sovereignty and independence" of the regions of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, located in southern Ukraine. Russia prepares to formalise the annexation of the two regions, along with Donetsk and Lugansk on Friday. Moscow will annex all the regions at a grand ceremony in the Kremlin on Friday. ALSO READ | Putin says 'mistakes' of military mobilisation should be corrected Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that the annexation of the areas would be formalised at the ceremony and that Putin would deliver a major speech. The Russian president also has threatened to use nuclear weapons to defend the territories. The threats have not stopped a sweeping Ukrainian counter-offensive. WATCH | US President Joe Biden gets confused on stage, looks for dead lawmaker in crowd × ALSO READ | Putin to formalise post-vote annexation of Ukraine territory, UN warns against ‘illegal’ move In the past few days, Ukraine said it has been pushing back Russian troops in the east and is on the doorstep of the Donetsk region town of Lyman, which Moscow's forces pummelled for weeks before capturing it this summer. Meanwhile, the United Nations Secretary-General said on Thursday that if Russia moves ahead with its plans to annex four Ukrainian regions, it would mark a "dangerous escalation". It would also jeopardise the prospects for peace in the region. 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 President Vladimir Putin recognises independence of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions

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<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>In what appeared to be a first public acknowledgement that the "partial mobilisation" announced by Russia last week is maybe not have gone smoothly as it was claimed, President Vladimir Putin called for the mistakes to be "corrected".&nbsp;</p>

<p>As discontent continues to grow in Russia over the conscription call, Putin on Thursday said that "all mistakes" made in a call-up to reinforce Russia's military operation in Ukraine should be corrected.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-to-formalise-annexation-of-ukraine-territory-on-friday-520903">Putin to formalise post-vote annexation of Ukraine territory, UN warns against ‘illegal’ move</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>During a videoconference with his security council broadcast on Russian television, Putin said, "This mobilisation raises many questions. We must correct all the mistakes and ensure that they do not happen again."&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his address, Putin gave examples of those who are ineligible and have been summoned, like fathers of large families, people suffering from serious illnesses or very old people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said, "If a mistake has been made, it must be corrected and those who were summoned without an appropriate reason should come home."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-fresh-sanctions-on-export-of-iran-oil-521006">US imposes fresh sanctions on export of Iran oil</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Header: Fourth leak found on Nord Stream pipelines&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Monday said that some "mistakes" have been made in the mobilisation process, which was focused on 300,000 reservists with military experience or useful skills, such as truck drivers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the OVD-Info organisation, more than 2,400 people have been detained in demonstrations against the mobilisation in Russia since it was announced on September 21.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The announcement didn't go well with the citizens as Russians have also chosen to flee the country, causing large queues at the borders of Georgia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia and Finland.&nbsp;</p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. In what appeared to be a first public acknowledgement that the "partial mobilisation" announced by Russia last week is maybe not have gone smoothly as it was claimed, President Vladimir Putin called for the mistakes to be "corrected". As discontent continues to grow in Russia over the conscription call, Putin on Thursday said that "all mistakes" made in a call-up to reinforce Russia's military operation in Ukraine should be corrected. ALSO READ | Putin to formalise post-vote annexation of Ukraine territory, UN warns against ‘illegal’ move During a videoconference with his security council broadcast on Russian television, Putin said, "This mobilisation raises many questions. We must correct all the mistakes and ensure that they do not happen again." During his address, Putin gave examples of those who are ineligible and have been summoned, like fathers of large families, people suffering from serious illnesses or very old people. Putin said, "If a mistake has been made, it must be corrected and those who were summoned without an appropriate reason should come home." ALSO READ | US imposes fresh sanctions on export of Iran oil WATCH | Header: Fourth leak found on Nord Stream pipelines × Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Monday said that some "mistakes" have been made in the mobilisation process, which was focused on 300,000 reservists with military experience or useful skills, such as truck drivers. According to the OVD-Info organisation, more than 2,400 people have been detained in demonstrations against the mobilisation in Russia since it was announced on September 21. The announcement didn't go well with the citizens as Russians have also chosen to flee the country, causing large queues at the borders of Georgia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia and Finland. 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 President Vladimir Putin says 'mistakes' of military mobilisation should be corrected

<p>The Russian prosecutor's office on Wednesday said that an "international terrorism" probe has been launched by the FSB security service after the gas leaks were reported on the Nord Stream pipelines, the Interfax news agency reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The leaks in Nord Stream gas pipelines from Russia to Germany under the Baltic Sea have been blamed on "sabotage". Experts have even said that various armed forces in the region are capable of such an operation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nord-stream-gas-leaks-may-be-the-biggest-and-worst-ever-recorded-raises-severe-climate-fears-520657">Nord Stream gas leaks may be the&nbsp;'biggest and worst'&nbsp;ever recorded, raises severe climate fears</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The leaks are at the centre of an energy standoff as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which caused an energy crisis in Europe, have escalated further.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Germany, Denmark and Sweden have clearly mentioned that they were attacks which caused gas from the two Russian-owned gas pipelines to pour into the sea. Although, the countries have not said who they suspect of carrying out the attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;After 'sham' referendums, a nuclear threat&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Notably, Russia has also said sabotage was a possibility. Moscow has slashed gas deliveries to Europe after the West imposed sanctions over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the European Union vowed a "robust" response to any intentional disruption of its energy infrastructure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The EU foreign policy chief Borrell said, "Any deliberate disruption of European energy infrastructure is utterly unacceptable and will be met with a robust and united response."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-vows-to-never-recognise-ukraine-referendums-as-russia-claims-victory-520664">West vows to 'never recognise' referendums in Ukraine as Russia claims victory</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Also, the French UN mission said that a United Nations Security Council will convene on Friday at the request of Russia to discuss damage to the Nord Stream pipelines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The French mission holds the presidency of the 15-member council for September.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Denmark's defence minister said after a meeting with NATO General Secretary Jens Stoltenberg there was reason to be concerned about the security situation in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;Morten Bodskov said in a statement, "Russia has a significant military presence in the Baltic Sea region and we expect them to continue their sabre-rattling."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Norway has raised its level of preparedness as the nation's prime minister said on Wednesday that its military will be deployed near oil and gas installations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Norway's Jonas Gahr Stoere told a news briefing, "The military will be more visible at Norwegian oil and gas installations."&nbsp;</p>

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The Russian prosecutor's office on Wednesday said that an "international terrorism" probe has been launched by the FSB security service after the gas leaks were reported on the Nord Stream pipelines, the Interfax news agency reported.

The Russian prosecutor's office on Wednesday said that an "international terrorism" probe has been launched by the FSB security service after the gas leaks were reported on the Nord Stream pipelines, the Interfax news agency reported. The leaks in Nord Stream gas pipelines from Russia to Germany under the Baltic Sea have been blamed on "sabotage". Experts have even said that various armed forces in the region are capable of such an operation. ALSO READ | Nord Stream gas leaks may be the 'biggest and worst' ever recorded, raises severe climate fears The leaks are at the centre of an energy standoff as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which caused an energy crisis in Europe, have escalated further. Germany, Denmark and Sweden have clearly mentioned that they were attacks which caused gas from the two Russian-owned gas pipelines to pour into the sea. Although, the countries have not said who they suspect of carrying out the attacks. WATCH | After 'sham' referendums, a nuclear threat × Notably, Russia has also said sabotage was a possibility. Moscow has slashed gas deliveries to Europe after the West imposed sanctions over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Meanwhile, the European Union vowed a "robust" response to any intentional disruption of its energy infrastructure. The EU foreign policy chief Borrell said, "Any deliberate disruption of European energy infrastructure is utterly unacceptable and will be met with a robust and united response." ALSO READ | West vows to 'never recognise' referendums in Ukraine as Russia claims victory Also, the French UN mission said that a United Nations Security Council will convene on Friday at the request of Russia to discuss damage to the Nord Stream pipelines. The French mission holds the presidency of the 15-member council for September. Denmark's defence minister said after a meeting with NATO General Secretary Jens Stoltenberg there was reason to be concerned about the security situation in the region. Morten Bodskov said in a statement, "Russia has a significant military presence in the Baltic Sea region and we expect them to continue their sabre-rattling." Meanwhile, Norway has raised its level of preparedness as the nation's prime minister said on Wednesday that its military will be deployed near oil and gas installations. Norway's Jonas Gahr Stoere told a news briefing, "The military will be more visible at Norwegian oil and gas installations." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia launches 'international terrorism' probe after Nord Stream leaks: Report

The Kremlin has admitted that errors have been made during the mobilization of reservists for Russia's military action in Ukraine. This comes after a string of complaints including allegations of racism against the draft process.

Kremlin admits to error during mobilisation

The United Nations Security Council held a crucial meeting focusing on Russia's war in Ukraine. It was the first direct encounter between US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Ukraine's Dmytro Kuleba.

UNSC discusses abuses in Ukraine

<p>There was one topic of conversation among the women bundled up in front of a bombed-out building the other day as they waited in a long line at a humanitarian food truck, a nippy wind swirling around them.</p>

<p>“When are you going to get your glass?” one asked.</p>

<p>“Have you called about the glass?” another said.</p>

<p>“It was really cold last night. Didn’t you feel it?” said a third. “When’s the glass coming?”</p>

<p>This is becoming a big problem in Ukraine. So many windows have been shattered by explosions — “millions of them,” one humanitarian official estimated — that there is a nationwide run on glass.</p>

<p>In the towns and cities that the Russian military has pounded with earthshaking artillery barrages, nothing has been spared — not the high rises, not the schools, not the squat little cottages. The shock waves from a powerful Russian missile that exploded less than 900 feet from a nuclear power plant in southern Ukraine on Monday blew out more than 100 windows at the plant.</p>

<p>Many of the buildings that have avoided total destruction during the war have had all their windows blown out. And winter is coming. Fast.</p>

<p>The other week here in Chernihiv, a city in northern Ukraine, the temperature dropped from about 80 degrees Fahrenheit to almost freezing.</p>

<p>No doubt that Ukraine is facing a host of crises within crises, but one of the most urgent is the scramble to get damaged homes ready for winter, and that is where the glass comes in.</p>

<p>Appreciate this material just for a moment, because hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians really need it right now. Glass lets in light and keeps out cold. You can see through it, so no matter how small or cramped your place is, you have a view. Glass keeps out birds, bugs and dust, and you can open a window and let in fresh air.</p>

<p>The alternatives, which you can see all over Ukraine now, have obvious deficiencies.</p>

<p>Plywood may cover a hole in the wall, but it leaves the inside space dark, which can be depressing. And the scraps of tablecloths or plastic film that a lot of people are using — one man said he had nothing better than the Ukrainian version of Saran Wrap to cover his windows — might let in sunlight. But they don’t seal well and leave people curled up at night under three blankets, dreading winter.</p>

<p>“That stuff?” said Oleksandr Zhyla, a retired architect who used the plastic food wrap on his blown-out windows in Chernihiv. He pointed to his handiwork and laughed: “It doesn’t keep us warm at all.”</p>

<p>Even before the Russian invasion in February, Ukraine had glass issues. One of its biggest glass factories was in the eastern Donbas region, but it was bombed during the pro-Russian rebellion there a few years ago, and shut down.</p>

<p>That left Ukraine relying heavily on Russia and Belarus for glass. But after this war started, those trade links were cut. So now almost all of Ukraine’s glass, two distributors said, is imported, much of it from pricier European markets.</p>

<p>And there are more problems. To make glass, you have to melt sand. And to melt sand, you need a lot of energy. And with global energy prices soaring, glass prices have risen sharply as well.</p>

<p>Add all of this up — the higher production costs, the increased demand, Ukraine’s logistical nightmares, like its seaports being blockaded by Russian submarines — and it’s no mystery that an ordinary pane of glass costs double, triple or even quadruple what it used to, according to glass suppliers. That makes it impossible for many people to fix their windows, even as the cold air begins to blow in. And every day, with the fighting still raging, more are being broken.</p>

<p>During a war, windows are always the first to go. If a bomb is powerful enough, the shock waves or reverberations will shatter glass far from the explosion, creating a blizzard of potentially lethal shards.</p>

<p>“You wouldn’t believe how small the pieces were,” said one woman, Nataliia Medvedok, who sat by a blown-out window in her living room in Chernihiv. She had been hiding in a shelter when her building was hit in March and came back to find the floor covered with pea-sized pieces of super-sharp glass.</p>

<p>Humanitarian groups have stepped in. A private French aid organization, ACTED, is helping Medvedok pay for her window repair, part of its plan to get people ready for winter.</p>

<p>“Everyone is rushing, rushing, rushing to do what we can, right now,” said Frances Oppermann, ACTED’s deputy country director for programs. Winter in Ukraine, she said, is “intense.”</p>

<p>It’s also long, nearly half the year, with wintry weather stretching from mid-October to mid-March, and temperatures can plummet to 10 below zero. Fixing windows is part of a broader winterization strategy laid out by aid agencies that includes buying tens of millions of dollars worth of blankets, coats, woolen hats and traditional felt boots.</p>

<p>In Chernihiv, a first look can be deceptive. It is a beautiful city of about 200,000 people. Gazing across its immense cobblestone town square lined with elegant old buildings and seeing people jogging through the parks with their perfectly clipped bushes, it almost looks as if nothing happened here. But then you notice how many windows are boarded up or missing.</p>

<p>Chernihiv was blasted by Russian missiles and rockets in March, but has not seen much fighting since then. While there has been a lightning Ukrainian offensive this month that pushed back Russian troops around the northeastern city of Kharkiv, Chernihiv has remained relatively quiet.</p>

<p>At the mayor’s office, there is still plywood covering some of the broken windows.</p>

<p>“I have bigger problems,” said the mayor, Vladyslav Atroshenko. “I can’t have children freezing in their apartments.”</p>

<p>His priority is to repair critical infrastructure to ensure the city is ready to turn on the heat when winter arrives, no small feat given the extent of the damage and how expensive energy has become.</p>

<p>Mykolaiv, a city in the south, has been shelled mercilessly by Russian forces. Vitaliy Kim, a top local official, said he has 50,000 square meters of windows to fix — that’s almost 10 football fields of glass.</p>

<p>“Even the windows in my own house are blown out,” he said.</p>

<p>Nationwide, the figures are staggering. Some 140,000 residential buildings have been destroyed; 44 million square meters of housing have been damaged; and millions of Ukrainians are living in homes “ill-suited to provide sufficient protection from harsh winter conditions,” according to the United Nations.</p>

<p>Considering that the front line zigzags for more than 1,000 miles and that Russia has hammered hundreds of places with artillery, it’s not hard to see how Oppermann came to an estimate of “millions” of broken windows. But no one really knows.</p>

<p>Zhyla went around his blown-out nine-story building in Chernihiv, counting the broken windows. He found 496. And that’s just one building.</p>

<p>He is worried that if the windows are not fixed by wintertime, the pipes in his building could turn to ice and burst, and then it will be really hard to live there.</p>

<p>“A simple $100 window can prevent an entire family from freezing this winter,” said Michael Capponi, the founder of Global Empowerment Mission, an aid group that has installed thousands of windows in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Viktoriia Markova, whose home in Chernihiv was smashed to smithereens by an artillery shell, was recently given a small shelter in her backyard for her, her husband and teenage son. It is the size of an ordinary bedroom, and its walls are made of the same material as a porta-potty.</p>

<p>It’s dark and stuffy inside and smells like plastic. And it doesn’t have any real windows.</p>

<p>“It’s not great,” Markova conceded. “But there’s just one thing on everyone’s mind. Victory. We’re all just waiting for victory.”</p>


There was one topic of conversation among the women bundled up in front of a bombed-out building the other day as they waited in a long line at a humanitarian food truck, a nippy wind swirling around them.

There was one topic of conversation among the women bundled up in front of a bombed-out building the other day as they waited in a long line at a humanitarian food truck, a nippy wind swirling around them. “When are you going to get your glass?” one asked. “Have you called about the glass?” another said. “It was really cold last night. Didn’t you feel it?” said a third. “When’s the glass coming?” This is becoming a big problem in Ukraine. So many windows have been shattered by explosions — “millions of them,” one humanitarian official estimated — that there is a nationwide run on glass. In the towns and cities that the Russian military has pounded with earthshaking artillery barrages, nothing has been spared — not the high rises, not the schools, not the squat little cottages. The shock waves from a powerful Russian missile that exploded less than 900 feet from a nuclear power plant in southern Ukraine on Monday blew out more than 100 windows at the plant. Many of the buildings that have avoided total destruction during the war have had all their windows blown out. And winter is coming. Fast. The other week here in Chernihiv, a city in northern Ukraine, the temperature dropped from about 80 degrees Fahrenheit to almost freezing. No doubt that Ukraine is facing a host of crises within crises, but one of the most urgent is the scramble to get damaged homes ready for winter, and that is where the glass comes in. Appreciate this material just for a moment, because hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians really need it right now. Glass lets in light and keeps out cold. You can see through it, so no matter how small or cramped your place is, you have a view. Glass keeps out birds, bugs and dust, and you can open a window and let in fresh air. The alternatives, which you can see all over Ukraine now, have obvious deficiencies. Plywood may cover a hole in the wall, but it leaves the inside space dark, which can be depressing. And the scraps of tablecloths or plastic film that a lot of people are using — one man said he had nothing better than the Ukrainian version of Saran Wrap to cover his windows — might let in sunlight. But they don’t seal well and leave people curled up at night under three blankets, dreading winter. “That stuff?” said Oleksandr Zhyla, a retired architect who used the plastic food wrap on his blown-out windows in Chernihiv. He pointed to his handiwork and laughed: “It doesn’t keep us warm at all.” Even before the Russian invasion in February, Ukraine had glass issues. One of its biggest glass factories was in the eastern Donbas region, but it was bombed during the pro-Russian rebellion there a few years ago, and shut down. That left Ukraine relying heavily on Russia and Belarus for glass. But after this war started, those trade links were cut. So now almost all of Ukraine’s glass, two distributors said, is imported, much of it from pricier European markets. And there are more problems. To make glass, you have to melt sand. And to melt sand, you need a lot of energy. And with global energy prices soaring, glass prices have risen sharply as well. Add all of this up — the higher production costs, the increased demand, Ukraine’s logistical nightmares, like its seaports being blockaded by Russian submarines — and it’s no mystery that an ordinary pane of glass costs double, triple or even quadruple what it used to, according to glass suppliers. That makes it impossible for many people to fix their windows, even as the cold air begins to blow in. And every day, with the fighting still raging, more are being broken. During a war, windows are always the first to go. If a bomb is powerful enough, the shock waves or reverberations will shatter glass far from the explosion, creating a blizzard of potentially lethal shards. “You wouldn’t believe how small the pieces were,” said one woman, Nataliia Medvedok, who sat by a blown-out window in her living room in Chernihiv. She had been hiding in a shelter when her building was hit in March and came back to find the floor covered with pea-sized pieces of super-sharp glass. Humanitarian groups have stepped in. A private French aid organization, ACTED, is helping Medvedok pay for her window repair, part of its plan to get people ready for winter. “Everyone is rushing, rushing, rushing to do what we can, right now,” said Frances Oppermann, ACTED’s deputy country director for programs. Winter in Ukraine, she said, is “intense.” It’s also long, nearly half the year, with wintry weather stretching from mid-October to mid-March, and temperatures can plummet to 10 below zero. Fixing windows is part of a broader winterization strategy laid out by aid agencies that includes buying tens of millions of dollars worth of blankets, coats, woolen hats and traditional felt boots. In Chernihiv, a first look can be deceptive. It is a beautiful city of about 200,000 people. Gazing across its immense cobblestone town square lined with elegant old buildings and seeing people jogging through the parks with their perfectly clipped bushes, it almost looks as if nothing happened here. But then you notice how many windows are boarded up or missing. Chernihiv was blasted by Russian missiles and rockets in March, but has not seen much fighting since then. While there has been a lightning Ukrainian offensive this month that pushed back Russian troops around the northeastern city of Kharkiv, Chernihiv has remained relatively quiet. At the mayor’s office, there is still plywood covering some of the broken windows. “I have bigger problems,” said the mayor, Vladyslav Atroshenko. “I can’t have children freezing in their apartments.” His priority is to repair critical infrastructure to ensure the city is ready to turn on the heat when winter arrives, no small feat given the extent of the damage and how expensive energy has become. Mykolaiv, a city in the south, has been shelled mercilessly by Russian forces. Vitaliy Kim, a top local official, said he has 50,000 square meters of windows to fix — that’s almost 10 football fields of glass. “Even the windows in my own house are blown out,” he said. Nationwide, the figures are staggering. Some 140,000 residential buildings have been destroyed; 44 million square meters of housing have been damaged; and millions of Ukrainians are living in homes “ill-suited to provide sufficient protection from harsh winter conditions,” according to the United Nations. Considering that the front line zigzags for more than 1,000 miles and that Russia has hammered hundreds of places with artillery, it’s not hard to see how Oppermann came to an estimate of “millions” of broken windows. But no one really knows. Zhyla went around his blown-out nine-story building in Chernihiv, counting the broken windows. He found 496. And that’s just one building. He is worried that if the windows are not fixed by wintertime, the pipes in his building could turn to ice and burst, and then it will be really hard to live there. “A simple $100 window can prevent an entire family from freezing this winter,” said Michael Capponi, the founder of Global Empowerment Mission, an aid group that has installed thousands of windows in Ukraine. Viktoriia Markova, whose home in Chernihiv was smashed to smithereens by an artillery shell, was recently given a small shelter in her backyard for her, her husband and teenage son. It is the size of an ordinary bedroom, and its walls are made of the same material as a porta-potty. It’s dark and stuffy inside and smells like plastic. And it doesn’t have any real windows. “It’s not great,” Markova conceded. “But there’s just one thing on everyone’s mind. Victory. We’re all just waiting for victory.”

One big problem for Ukraine is clear: Glass

<p>President Vladimir Putin of Russia, in a speech Wednesday that was a reminder of how easily the war in Ukraine could spread, doubled down on his nuclear threat, accused the West of seeking to “destroy” his country, and suggested that Ukrainians are mere pawns of the “military machine of the collective West.”</p>

<p>In a videotaped address to the nation, he effectively conceded that the war he started Feb. 24 has not gone as he wished. By calling up roughly 300,000 reservists to fight on what he called a 620-mile front, and abandoning the original objective of demilitarizing and “de-Nazifying” all of Ukraine, he acknowledged something he had consistently denied: the reality and growing resistance of a unified Ukrainian nation.</p>

<p>But Putin cornered is Putin at his most dangerous. That was one of the core lessons of his hardscrabble youth that he took from the furious reaction of a rat he cornered on a stairwell in what was then Leningrad.</p>

<p>His speech at once inverted a war of aggression against a neighbor into one of defense of the “motherland,” a theme that resonates with Russians, and warned the West in unmistakable terms — “this is not a bluff” — that the attempt to weaken or defeat Russia could provoke nuclear cataclysm.</p>

<p>“Russia won its defensive wars against Napoleon and Hitler, and the most important thing Putin did here from a psychological perspective was to claim this, too, is a defensive war,” said Michel Eltchaninoff, the French author of “Inside the Mind of Vladimir Putin.” “It was an aggressive war. Now it’s the defense of the Russian world against the Western attempt at dismemberment.”</p>

<p>That “Russkiy Mir,” or imagined world imbued with some inalienable Russian essence, grew in size as Putin suggested in the speech that the country’s nuclear arsenal could be used to defend eastern and southern areas of Ukraine captured since the war began.</p>

<p>Putin said Russia would support imminent referendums on the future of four regions in Ukraine. This method, described this week by President Emmanuel Macron of France as “simulacra” of referendums, was used in Crimea in 2014 to justify Russian annexation.</p>

<p>It seems likely that the referendums in Donetsk and Luhansk in the east, and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south — which the United States and Western allies have denounced as “sham” votes — would also lead to Russian annexation. At that point, a Ukrainian attack next month on the city of Kherson in the south, captured by Russia at the start of the war, could, in Russia’s view, be viewed as an attack on Russian soil, justifying a nuclear riposte.</p>

<p>A Ukrainian counteroffensive is underway in the Kherson region, and senior Ukrainian officials have vowed to recapture the city.</p>

<p>“If the territorial integrity of our country is threatened, we will of course use all means at our disposal to defend Russia and our people,” Putin said.</p>

<p>His speech, which may of course be a bluff despite his denial, nevertheless placed before the West a dilemma that has been inherent in its policy from the start of the war: How far can intense military and logistical support of Ukraine — effectively everything short of NATO troops on the ground — go without setting off nuclear confrontation?</p>

<p>It was also an attempt to divide the West before a winter that promises to be hard, with inflation and energy costs rising. While the Biden administration has little apparent interest in diplomacy at this stage, France, Germany and Italy still seek the “dialogue” with Russia that Macron mentioned in his speech Tuesday to the United Nations, a dialogue judged necessary, he said, because “we seek peace.”</p>


President Vladimir Putin of Russia, in a speech Wednesday that was a reminder of how easily the war in Ukraine could spread, doubled down on his nuclear threat, accused the West of seeking to “destroy” his country, and suggested that Ukrainians are mere pawns of the “military machine of the collective West.

President Vladimir Putin of Russia, in a speech Wednesday that was a reminder of how easily the war in Ukraine could spread, doubled down on his nuclear threat, accused the West of seeking to “destroy” his country, and suggested that Ukrainians are mere pawns of the “military machine of the collective West.” In a videotaped address to the nation, he effectively conceded that the war he started Feb. 24 has not gone as he wished. By calling up roughly 300,000 reservists to fight on what he called a 620-mile front, and abandoning the original objective of demilitarizing and “de-Nazifying” all of Ukraine, he acknowledged something he had consistently denied: the reality and growing resistance of a unified Ukrainian nation. But Putin cornered is Putin at his most dangerous. That was one of the core lessons of his hardscrabble youth that he took from the furious reaction of a rat he cornered on a stairwell in what was then Leningrad. His speech at once inverted a war of aggression against a neighbor into one of defense of the “motherland,” a theme that resonates with Russians, and warned the West in unmistakable terms — “this is not a bluff” — that the attempt to weaken or defeat Russia could provoke nuclear cataclysm. “Russia won its defensive wars against Napoleon and Hitler, and the most important thing Putin did here from a psychological perspective was to claim this, too, is a defensive war,” said Michel Eltchaninoff, the French author of “Inside the Mind of Vladimir Putin.” “It was an aggressive war. Now it’s the defense of the Russian world against the Western attempt at dismemberment.” That “Russkiy Mir,” or imagined world imbued with some inalienable Russian essence, grew in size as Putin suggested in the speech that the country’s nuclear arsenal could be used to defend eastern and southern areas of Ukraine captured since the war began. Putin said Russia would support imminent referendums on the future of four regions in Ukraine. This method, described this week by President Emmanuel Macron of France as “simulacra” of referendums, was used in Crimea in 2014 to justify Russian annexation. It seems likely that the referendums in Donetsk and Luhansk in the east, and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south — which the United States and Western allies have denounced as “sham” votes — would also lead to Russian annexation. At that point, a Ukrainian attack next month on the city of Kherson in the south, captured by Russia at the start of the war, could, in Russia’s view, be viewed as an attack on Russian soil, justifying a nuclear riposte. A Ukrainian counteroffensive is underway in the Kherson region, and senior Ukrainian officials have vowed to recapture the city. “If the territorial integrity of our country is threatened, we will of course use all means at our disposal to defend Russia and our people,” Putin said. His speech, which may of course be a bluff despite his denial, nevertheless placed before the West a dilemma that has been inherent in its policy from the start of the war: How far can intense military and logistical support of Ukraine — effectively everything short of NATO troops on the ground — go without setting off nuclear confrontation? It was also an attempt to divide the West before a winter that promises to be hard, with inflation and energy costs rising. While the Biden administration has little apparent interest in diplomacy at this stage, France, Germany and Italy still seek the “dialogue” with Russia that Macron mentioned in his speech Tuesday to the United Nations, a dialogue judged necessary, he said, because “we seek peace.”

A cornered Putin is more dangerous than ever

<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><meta name="uuid" content="uuidgMWwSluF2xt4" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that Russia will use all available means to protect its territory as he has ordered the nation's first partial mobilisation since World War II. Putin said that the additional manpower was needed to win a war against not only Ukraine but also its Western backers.</p>

<p>In a televised address, Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu said that Russia will draft 300,000 reservists to support its military campaign in neighbouring Ukraine. Notably, this is a partial call-up as Russia's defence minister says that the nation has a reserve force of 25 million.</p>

<p>Putin's move has been labelled as an "act of desperation" by the West. On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz insisted Russia "cannot win this criminal war" in Ukraine and that Putin "with his most recent decision makes everything much worse".</p>

<p>Since the announcement, there have been several reports on how it has impacted the common people in Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Flights out of Russia sell out</strong></p>

<p>One-way flights out of the country were surging in price and selling out fast. Google Trends data showed an increase in the demand for direct flights from Moscow. There was a spike in searches for Aviasales, which is Russia's most popular flight-booking site.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Aviasales data also showed that the direct flights from Moscow to Istanbul in Turkey and Yerevan in Armenia were sold out on Wednesday. Notably, both destinations allow Russians to enter without a visa.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>No tickets being sold to Russian men aged 18-65</strong></p>

<p>In the latest development, media reports stated that the Russian airlines had stopped selling tickets to Russian men between the age of 18 to 65, those who are potential to be drafted into the reservists' list.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos, videos and information shared on social media.</em></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a>: Social media accounts in Russia: Russian Railways and airlines are refusing to sell tickets to men 18-65 years of age</p>
— Amichai Stein (@AmichaiStein1) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmichaiStein1/status/1572597545301577728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>'How to break arm at home'</strong></p>

<p>Newsweek reported that Google searches for "how to break an arm at home" increased after Putin announced partial mobilisation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russians are also searching on Google for how to "avoid mobilisation and stay alive."<br />
<br />
In a tweet, Ukraine's defence ministry said that they would have been better off "Googling instructions for making Molotov cocktails when there was still time."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">russians are now actively Googling how to avoid mobilization and stay alive.<br />
They would have been better off Googling instructions for making Molotov cocktails when there was still time.</p>
— Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceU/status/1572594119226040321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The russians were given 12 hours of rest, so Google could answer all the questions, including the question of what is the average life expectancy of a russian soldier in Ukraine.</p>
— Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceU/status/1572330615374217217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Russia-Finland border traffic rises</strong></p>

<p>After the announcement, the traffic on the eastern Finnish border with Russia increased overnight on Wednesday. The Finnish border guard in a tweet said that the surge in activity continued even on Thursday morning as well. It clearly shows that people in Russia are trying to move out of the country.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="fi">Liikenne itärajalla vilkastui yön aikana maahan saapuvan liikenteen osalta. Kasvua suhteessa edellisiin viikkoihin on. Määrä on silti yhä vähäinen verrattuna pandemiaa edeltäneeseen aikaan, joten resurssimme riittävät hyvin. Tilanne on viranomaisten hallinnassa. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rajaturvallisuus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rajaturvallisuus</a> <a href="https://t.co/cYbq0m2uy4">pic.twitter.com/cYbq0m2uy4</a></p>
— Rajavartiolaitos (@rajavartijat) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajavartijat/status/1572864115923722241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Dozens were arrested in Moscow and St Petersburg</strong></p>

<p>More than 700 people were detained across Russia at protests against mobilisation on Wednesday, a rights group said. The independent OVD-Info protest monitoring group said it was aware of detentions in at least 36 different cities. Unsanctioned rallies are illegal under Russia's anti-protest laws.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>'I am concerned': Russian in Istanbul&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>One Russian man arriving at Istanbul Airport said he had left partly over the Kremlin's decision. "Partial mobilisation is one of the reasons why I am here. Very poor step and it seem to be that it can lead to lots of problems to lots of Russian citizens. I am concerned. I didn't believe that the next step would be mobilisation and I feel that not many Russian people want to fight and want to be mobilised and want to go to the army," said Alex as quoted by news agency Reuters. He declined to give surname due to safety concerns.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Kremlin's response</strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Kremlin has responded by stating that the reports of an exodus of fighting-age men are exaggerated. In a call with reporters, Peskov said: "The information about the hype at airports and so on is very much exaggerated ... There is a lot of fake information about this. We need to be very careful about this so as not to become a victim of false information on this matter."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<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. President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that Russia will use all available means to protect its territory as he has ordered the nation's first partial mobilisation since World War II. Putin said that the additional manpower was needed to win a war against not only Ukraine but also its Western backers. In a televised address, Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu said that Russia will draft 300,000 reservists to support its military campaign in neighbouring Ukraine. Notably, this is a partial call-up as Russia's defence minister says that the nation has a reserve force of 25 million. Putin's move has been labelled as an "act of desperation" by the West. On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz insisted Russia "cannot win this criminal war" in Ukraine and that Putin "with his most recent decision makes everything much worse". Since the announcement, there have been several reports on how it has impacted the common people in Russia. Flights out of Russia sell out One-way flights out of the country were surging in price and selling out fast. Google Trends data showed an increase in the demand for direct flights from Moscow. There was a spike in searches for Aviasales, which is Russia's most popular flight-booking site. Aviasales data also showed that the direct flights from Moscow to Istanbul in Turkey and Yerevan in Armenia were sold out on Wednesday. Notably, both destinations allow Russians to enter without a visa. No tickets being sold to Russian men aged 18-65 In the latest development, media reports stated that the Russian airlines had stopped selling tickets to Russian men between the age of 18 to 65, those who are potential to be drafted into the reservists' list. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos, videos and information shared on social media. #BREAKING: Social media accounts in Russia: Russian Railways and airlines are refusing to sell tickets to men 18-65 years of age — Amichai Stein (@AmichaiStein1) September 21, 2022 × 'How to break arm at home' Newsweek reported that Google searches for "how to break an arm at home" increased after Putin announced partial mobilisation. Russians are also searching on Google for how to "avoid mobilisation and stay alive." In a tweet, Ukraine's defence ministry said that they would have been better off "Googling instructions for making Molotov cocktails when there was still time." russians are now actively Googling how to avoid mobilization and stay alive. They would have been better off Googling instructions for making Molotov cocktails when there was still time. — Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) September 21, 2022 × The russians were given 12 hours of rest, so Google could answer all the questions, including the question of what is the average life expectancy of a russian soldier in Ukraine. — Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) September 20, 2022 × Russia-Finland border traffic rises After the announcement, the traffic on the eastern Finnish border with Russia increased overnight on Wednesday. The Finnish border guard in a tweet said that the surge in activity continued even on Thursday morning as well. It clearly shows that people in Russia are trying to move out of the country. Liikenne itärajalla vilkastui yön aikana maahan saapuvan liikenteen osalta. Kasvua suhteessa edellisiin viikkoihin on. Määrä on silti yhä vähäinen verrattuna pandemiaa edeltäneeseen aikaan, joten resurssimme riittävät hyvin. Tilanne on viranomaisten hallinnassa. #rajaturvallisuus pic.twitter.com/cYbq0m2uy4 — Rajavartiolaitos (@rajavartijat) September 22, 2022 × Dozens were arrested in Moscow and St Petersburg More than 700 people were detained across Russia at protests against mobilisation on Wednesday, a rights group said. The independent OVD-Info protest monitoring group said it was aware of detentions in at least 36 different cities. Unsanctioned rallies are illegal under Russia's anti-protest laws. Watch this report: × 'I am concerned': Russian in Istanbul One Russian man arriving at Istanbul Airport said he had left partly over the Kremlin's decision. "Partial mobilisation is one of the reasons why I am here. Very poor step and it seem to be that it can lead to lots of problems to lots of Russian citizens. I am concerned. I didn't believe that the next step would be mobilisation and I feel that not many Russian people want to fight and want to be mobilised and want to go to the army," said Alex as quoted by news agency Reuters. He declined to give surname due to safety concerns. Kremlin's response Meanwhile, Kremlin has responded by stating that the reports of an exodus of fighting-age men are exaggerated. In a call with reporters, Peskov said: "The information about the hype at airports and so on is very much exaggerated ... There is a lot of fake information about this. We need to be very careful about this so as not to become a victim of false information on this matter." 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.

Fly out, run to border, search self-harm: How Russians are trying to evade Putin's conscription call

The President of the United States Joe Biden addressed the United Nations General Assembly today. Biden began his speech by condemning Russia's war in Ukraine. He said Vladimir Putin was responsible for this war adding that Putin was intent on wiping Ukraine off the map.

US wants war to end on just terms: Joe Biden addresses 77th session of UNGA

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidyiEefXxE7frK" /><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>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (September 21) said that he does not believe his Russian counterpart will use nuclear weapons amid the ongoing conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky's remarks came hours after President Vladimir Putin ordered Russia's first mobilisation since World War II. Putin has ordered the immediate call-up of 300,000 reservists. The move is termed by the West as an escalation of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking to the TV station of Germany's Bild newspaper, Zelensky referred to nuclear arms and the related threats. He said, "I don't believe that he will use these weapons. I don't believe that the world will allow him to use these weapons."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-putins-orders-to-call-up-reservists-flights-out-of-russia-sell-out-518470">After Putin orders to call-up reservists, flights out of Russia sell out</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Warning against giving in to the Russian president's threats, Zelensky said, "Tomorrow, Putin can say - as well as Ukraine, we want part of Poland, otherwise we will use atomic weapons. We cannot make these compromises."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian president added that Putin's decision to order a partial mobilisation was because of the low morale among his forces. He said, "He needs an army of millions... he sees that a large part of those (troops) who come to us, just run away."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky added that Putin "wants to drown Ukraine in blood, also the blood of his own soldiers'"&nbsp;</p>

<p>He referred to the annexation referendums that will be held in Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine as "sham referendums". He said that 90 per cent of states would not recognise them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine war raged by just one man: Joe Biden addresses 77th session of UNGA&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/partial-military-mobilisation-in-russia-has-markets-on-alert-518418">Partial military mobilisation in Russia has markets on alert</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Zelensky also put pressure on German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government and stressed that Ukraine wants Germany to send battle tanks to aid the nation's fight against Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Berlin has sent some armaments to Ukraine, but they have so far refused to transfer the tanks that Kyiv is urgently appealing for.</p>

<p>Zelensky said, "Give us these weapons. Battle tanks mean that more people's lives can be saved."&nbsp;</p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (September 21) said that he does not believe his Russian counterpart will use nuclear weapons amid the ongoing conflict. Zelensky's remarks came hours after President Vladimir Putin ordered Russia's first mobilisation since World War II. Putin has ordered the immediate call-up of 300,000 reservists. The move is termed by the West as an escalation of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. While speaking to the TV station of Germany's Bild newspaper, Zelensky referred to nuclear arms and the related threats. He said, "I don't believe that he will use these weapons. I don't believe that the world will allow him to use these weapons." ALSO READ | After Putin orders to call-up reservists, flights out of Russia sell out Warning against giving in to the Russian president's threats, Zelensky said, "Tomorrow, Putin can say - as well as Ukraine, we want part of Poland, otherwise we will use atomic weapons. We cannot make these compromises." The Ukrainian president added that Putin's decision to order a partial mobilisation was because of the low morale among his forces. He said, "He needs an army of millions... he sees that a large part of those (troops) who come to us, just run away." Zelensky added that Putin "wants to drown Ukraine in blood, also the blood of his own soldiers'" He referred to the annexation referendums that will be held in Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine as "sham referendums". He said that 90 per cent of states would not recognise them. WATCH | Ukraine war raged by just one man: Joe Biden addresses 77th session of UNGA × ALSO READ | Partial military mobilisation in Russia has markets on alert Zelensky also put pressure on German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government and stressed that Ukraine wants Germany to send battle tanks to aid the nation's fight against Russia. Notably, Berlin has sent some armaments to Ukraine, but they have so far refused to transfer the tanks that Kyiv is urgently appealing for. Zelensky said, "Give us these weapons. Battle tanks mean that more people's lives can be saved." 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 does not believe Putin will use nuclear arms

Moscow back separatists in Ukraine's Eastern Donbas region and pro-Kremlin authorities in Russian-controlled region of Kherson say that they will hold referendums on becoming a part of Russia from September 23rd to 27th.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russian held territories announce referendum

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<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>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky did not receive "serious injuries" after his car was involved in a traffic accident in Kyiv, his spokesman Serhii Nykyforov said in a Facebook post early on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nykyforov said that Zelensky's car collided with a private vehicle, but he did not reveal when the accident actually happened.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He mentioned that medics accompanying Zelensky attended to the driver of the private car. The driver was given emergency aid and the medics put him in an ambulance.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-president-zelensky-promises-victory-on-visit-to-kharkiv-516220">Ukraine President Zelensky promises 'victory' on visit to recaptured Kharkiv region</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In a statement posted on Facebook at 1:22 am (local time), Nykyforov said, "In Kyiv, a passenger car collided with the car of the President of Ukraine and escort vehicles. Medics accompanying the President provided the driver of the passenger car with emergency aid and transferred him to an ambulance."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The president was examined by a doctor, no serious injuries were detected. The law enforcement officers will investigate all the circumstances of the accident," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Kremlin: SCO Summit will showcase an alternative to the western world&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Zelensky's surprise visit to Izium</strong></p>

<p>On Wednesday, Zelensky made a surprise visit to Izyum in the Kharkiv region. During his visit to the strategic city, the Ukrainian president promised 'victory' in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The visit came at a crucial moment of the war, as Ukraine is expelling Russian forces from swathes of the east and seriously challenging the Kremlin's ambition to capture the entire Donbas region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky said in a statement on social media: "Our blue-yellow flag is already flying in de-occupied Izyum. And it will be so in every Ukrainian city and village. We are moving in only one direction -- forward and towards victory."&nbsp;</p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky did not receive "serious injuries" after his car was involved in a traffic accident in Kyiv, his spokesman Serhii Nykyforov said in a Facebook post early on Thursday. Nykyforov said that Zelensky's car collided with a private vehicle, but he did not reveal when the accident actually happened. He mentioned that medics accompanying Zelensky attended to the driver of the private car. The driver was given emergency aid and the medics put him in an ambulance. ALSO READ | Ukraine President Zelensky promises 'victory' on visit to recaptured Kharkiv region In a statement posted on Facebook at 1:22 am (local time), Nykyforov said, "In Kyiv, a passenger car collided with the car of the President of Ukraine and escort vehicles. Medics accompanying the President provided the driver of the passenger car with emergency aid and transferred him to an ambulance." "The president was examined by a doctor, no serious injuries were detected. The law enforcement officers will investigate all the circumstances of the accident," he added. WATCH | Kremlin: SCO Summit will showcase an alternative to the western world × ALSO READ | Beirut: Woman armed with toy gun, demands trapped savings for ill sister Zelensky's surprise visit to Izium On Wednesday, Zelensky made a surprise visit to Izyum in the Kharkiv region. During his visit to the strategic city, the Ukrainian president promised 'victory' in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The visit came at a crucial moment of the war, as Ukraine is expelling Russian forces from swathes of the east and seriously challenging the Kremlin's ambition to capture the entire Donbas region. Zelensky said in a statement on social media: "Our blue-yellow flag is already flying in de-occupied Izyum. And it will be so in every Ukrainian city and village. We are moving in only one direction -- forward and towards victory." 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 President Volodymyr Zelensky 'not seriously hurt' after car accident

<p>More than 40 local elected officials across Russia signed a two-sentence petition on Monday that ended with: “We demand the resignation of Vladimir Putin from the post of president of the Russian Federation!”</p>

<p>The petition, pushed by opponents of the Ukraine invasion, had no practical impact, and it was roundly ignored in Russia’s state-controlled media. But it was striking in its very existence, showing that despite the Kremlin’s extraordinary crackdown on dissent, Ukraine’s counteroffensive successes have left Putin’s opponents newly emboldened — and his supporters looking for someone else to blame.</p>

<p>Pro-war commentators and politicians have pointed to the military leadership or senior officials, saying they have not waged the war with sufficient decisiveness and competence, or have not delivered all the facts to Putin. Longtime Kremlin critics have seized on that discord, and Russia’s setbacks at the front, to take the risk of speaking out against Putin.</p>

<p>“There is now hope that Ukraine will end this war,” said Ksenia Torstrem, a member of a municipal council in St. Petersburg who helped organize the petition and called Ukrainian advances an “inspiring factor” for it. “We decided we needed to put pressure on from all sides.”</p>

<p>On Russian state television, where criticism of the Kremlin is rare, supporters of the war are increasingly pointing fingers over what they cast as a disorganized and insufficiently concerted invasion; others are raising the idea of suing for peace. With anger spreading over the embarrassing withdrawal of Russian troops from more than 1,000 square miles of northeastern Ukraine, one senior lawmaker said in an interview that an “urgent adjustment” to the war effort was needed.</p>

<p>In a phone interview Monday, that lawmaker, Konstantin F. Zatulin, a senior member of parliament in Putin’s United Russia party, laid out the stakes.</p>

<p>Zatulin described the retreat by Russian troops as doing “very serious damage to the very idea of this special military operation,” using the term that the Kremlin has adopted for the war. But he also cautioned that if criticism of the war effort from across the political spectrum spirals out of control, it could lead to unforeseen consequences, citing the Russian Revolution of 1917 and the Soviet collapse of 1991.</p>

<p>“It must be underlined that this criticism should not go overboard,” he said. “Otherwise, it could spark an uncontrollable reaction.”</p>

<p>Zatulin insisted that any optimism by people hoping that Putin would be toppled was “very much premature.” Ukraine’s successes, he said, might prompt the Kremlin to escalate its war effort to try to deliver Ukraine a decisive defeat, though he added that he did not expect this to mean “nuclear war.”</p>

<p>“What now appears to some to be the success of the Ukrainian side could in fact lead to the last drop that will lead to the beginning of a war for real,” Zatulin said. “Given that Russia truly did not use the full force of its abilities, nothing remains to be done other than to demonstrate this force.”</p>

<p>There is no evidence that Putin’s hold on power might be weakening, and the Kremlin on Monday said the invasion would “be continued until the original goals are achieved.”</p>

<p>Still, there were gathering signs that Russia’s elite was unsettled by the army’s retreat and uncertain how to proceed.</p>

<p>A member of the lower house of parliament, Mikhail Sheremet, told a Russian news outlet that the military would not succeed in Ukraine “without a full mobilization.” It was an implicit criticism of Putin’s refusal to carry out a nationwide draft, a step that Russian proponents of an escalated war effort have long been demanding.</p>

<p>The leader of a pro-Putin party, Sergei Mironov, praised the strikes against Ukrainian infrastructure targets Sunday night that left parts of the country without power, but complained that they “should have been carried out two to three months ago.”</p>

<p>And on the social network Telegram, where pro-war Russian military bloggers have gained huge followings, the grumbling also continued. “Stop whining,” Yevgeny Poddubny, a war correspondent for Russian state television, posted, referring to those who were worried about an escalating war.</p>

<p>But a senior member of the upper house, Andrei Klimov, tried to push back against the voices calling for all-out war, telling reporters that he saw no “necessity” for a mobilization or for martial law to be declared.</p>

<p>Opponents of Putin have been heartened by the discord.</p>

<p>“Many have the hope that something will finally break,” Ivan I. Kurilla, a historian at the European University at St. Petersburg and a critic of Putin, said in a phone interview. “We are probably wrong, it’s probably not yet time, but since everyone has been waiting for half a year for something to crack, this hope is very strong.”</p>

<p>After the invasion in February, Putin led the most intense crackdown on dissent since taking power two decades ago, signing a censorship law that made any criticism of the war effort — or even calling it a war rather than a “special military operation” — a potential crime. Thousands of journalists, activists and others fled the country, while just about all the prominent independent news media outlets still operating inside Russia were forced to shut down. Leading opposition figures who refused to flee were jailed.</p>

<p>So when a group of municipal council members from Putin’s home city of St. Petersburg published a statement calling for the president to be removed from office for treason last week, it was a shocking move in an environment in which fear of imprisonment has driven almost all criticism of Putin underground.</p>

<p>Some of those council members now face fines for “discrediting” the military and government, but in Moscow, members of another municipal council followed suit in calling for Putin to resign. And over the weekend, Torstrem, the St. Petersburg representative, wrote to fellow opposition-minded local deputies in a Telegram chat group: “I also want to do something.”</p>

<p>She was convinced to speak out, she said, both by colleagues who had already published anti-Putin statements and by the military advances of Ukrainian troops. She also noted the unhappiness in the pro-Putin camp, saying it put the Kremlin in a particularly delicate spot.</p>

<p>Torstrem, 38, helped draft the petition issued Monday calling on Putin to step down. She was careful not to mention the war, to avoid making any of the signatories vulnerable under the laws that criminalize criticism of it. The petition said only that Putin’s actions “do harm to the future of Russia and its citizens.”</p>

<p>The petition had 19 signatories from Moscow and St. Petersburg when she published it on Twitter on Monday morning. By the end of the day, the number had grown to more than 40, including municipal representatives from the remote city of Yakutsk in Siberia and from Samara on the Volga River.</p>

<p>She acknowledged that it was unclear how, in practice, the petition might help precipitate Putin’s resignation. But one signatory, Vasily Khoroshilov, a municipal deputy in Moscow, said the idea was to send a message to powerful opponents of Putin that they would have support among the Russian public.</p>

<p>“The radical patriots have also started to doubt the correctness of the path that is being followed,” Khoroshilov, 38, said in a phone interview. “Some forces in the highest echelons of power might take some kind of decisive action if they see support among the people.”</p>

<p>Putin’s core supporters appear to be focused on the notion that any problems in the war are not his fault, but that he was being misled by senior officials or the military leadership.</p>

<p>That was the message sent by Ramzan Kadyrov, the strongman ruler of the southern Russian region of Chechnya. He posted a rambling voice message to his Telegram account over the weekend and warned that if the military did not change its strategy “today or tomorrow,” he would be forced “to speak to the Defense Ministry’s leadership and the country’s leadership to explain to them the real situation on the ground.”</p>

<p>Zatulin, the senior lawmaker, said that many in Russia believed that “Putin was wrongly informed and doesn’t know everything, that he was deluded.”</p>

<p>“The president himself maintains his authority and is the foundation of stability at this moment,” Zatulin said.</p>

<p>But, he cautioned, “it’s clear that any system has its limits.”</p>


More than 40 local elected officials across Russia signed a two-sentence petition on Monday that ended with: “We demand the resignation of Vladimir Putin from the post of president of the Russian Federation!

More than 40 local elected officials across Russia signed a two-sentence petition on Monday that ended with: “We demand the resignation of Vladimir Putin from the post of president of the Russian Federation!” The petition, pushed by opponents of the Ukraine invasion, had no practical impact, and it was roundly ignored in Russia’s state-controlled media. But it was striking in its very existence, showing that despite the Kremlin’s extraordinary crackdown on dissent, Ukraine’s counteroffensive successes have left Putin’s opponents newly emboldened — and his supporters looking for someone else to blame. Pro-war commentators and politicians have pointed to the military leadership or senior officials, saying they have not waged the war with sufficient decisiveness and competence, or have not delivered all the facts to Putin. Longtime Kremlin critics have seized on that discord, and Russia’s setbacks at the front, to take the risk of speaking out against Putin. “There is now hope that Ukraine will end this war,” said Ksenia Torstrem, a member of a municipal council in St. Petersburg who helped organize the petition and called Ukrainian advances an “inspiring factor” for it. “We decided we needed to put pressure on from all sides.” On Russian state television, where criticism of the Kremlin is rare, supporters of the war are increasingly pointing fingers over what they cast as a disorganized and insufficiently concerted invasion; others are raising the idea of suing for peace. With anger spreading over the embarrassing withdrawal of Russian troops from more than 1,000 square miles of northeastern Ukraine, one senior lawmaker said in an interview that an “urgent adjustment” to the war effort was needed. In a phone interview Monday, that lawmaker, Konstantin F. Zatulin, a senior member of parliament in Putin’s United Russia party, laid out the stakes. Zatulin described the retreat by Russian troops as doing “very serious damage to the very idea of this special military operation,” using the term that the Kremlin has adopted for the war. But he also cautioned that if criticism of the war effort from across the political spectrum spirals out of control, it could lead to unforeseen consequences, citing the Russian Revolution of 1917 and the Soviet collapse of 1991. “It must be underlined that this criticism should not go overboard,” he said. “Otherwise, it could spark an uncontrollable reaction.” Zatulin insisted that any optimism by people hoping that Putin would be toppled was “very much premature.” Ukraine’s successes, he said, might prompt the Kremlin to escalate its war effort to try to deliver Ukraine a decisive defeat, though he added that he did not expect this to mean “nuclear war.” “What now appears to some to be the success of the Ukrainian side could in fact lead to the last drop that will lead to the beginning of a war for real,” Zatulin said. “Given that Russia truly did not use the full force of its abilities, nothing remains to be done other than to demonstrate this force.” There is no evidence that Putin’s hold on power might be weakening, and the Kremlin on Monday said the invasion would “be continued until the original goals are achieved.” Still, there were gathering signs that Russia’s elite was unsettled by the army’s retreat and uncertain how to proceed. A member of the lower house of parliament, Mikhail Sheremet, told a Russian news outlet that the military would not succeed in Ukraine “without a full mobilization.” It was an implicit criticism of Putin’s refusal to carry out a nationwide draft, a step that Russian proponents of an escalated war effort have long been demanding. The leader of a pro-Putin party, Sergei Mironov, praised the strikes against Ukrainian infrastructure targets Sunday night that left parts of the country without power, but complained that they “should have been carried out two to three months ago.” And on the social network Telegram, where pro-war Russian military bloggers have gained huge followings, the grumbling also continued. “Stop whining,” Yevgeny Poddubny, a war correspondent for Russian state television, posted, referring to those who were worried about an escalating war. But a senior member of the upper house, Andrei Klimov, tried to push back against the voices calling for all-out war, telling reporters that he saw no “necessity” for a mobilization or for martial law to be declared. Opponents of Putin have been heartened by the discord. “Many have the hope that something will finally break,” Ivan I. Kurilla, a historian at the European University at St. Petersburg and a critic of Putin, said in a phone interview. “We are probably wrong, it’s probably not yet time, but since everyone has been waiting for half a year for something to crack, this hope is very strong.” After the invasion in February, Putin led the most intense crackdown on dissent since taking power two decades ago, signing a censorship law that made any criticism of the war effort — or even calling it a war rather than a “special military operation” — a potential crime. Thousands of journalists, activists and others fled the country, while just about all the prominent independent news media outlets still operating inside Russia were forced to shut down. Leading opposition figures who refused to flee were jailed. So when a group of municipal council members from Putin’s home city of St. Petersburg published a statement calling for the president to be removed from office for treason last week, it was a shocking move in an environment in which fear of imprisonment has driven almost all criticism of Putin underground. Some of those council members now face fines for “discrediting” the military and government, but in Moscow, members of another municipal council followed suit in calling for Putin to resign. And over the weekend, Torstrem, the St. Petersburg representative, wrote to fellow opposition-minded local deputies in a Telegram chat group: “I also want to do something.” She was convinced to speak out, she said, both by colleagues who had already published anti-Putin statements and by the military advances of Ukrainian troops. She also noted the unhappiness in the pro-Putin camp, saying it put the Kremlin in a particularly delicate spot. Torstrem, 38, helped draft the petition issued Monday calling on Putin to step down. She was careful not to mention the war, to avoid making any of the signatories vulnerable under the laws that criminalize criticism of it. The petition said only that Putin’s actions “do harm to the future of Russia and its citizens.” The petition had 19 signatories from Moscow and St. Petersburg when she published it on Twitter on Monday morning. By the end of the day, the number had grown to more than 40, including municipal representatives from the remote city of Yakutsk in Siberia and from Samara on the Volga River. She acknowledged that it was unclear how, in practice, the petition might help precipitate Putin’s resignation. But one signatory, Vasily Khoroshilov, a municipal deputy in Moscow, said the idea was to send a message to powerful opponents of Putin that they would have support among the Russian public. “The radical patriots have also started to doubt the correctness of the path that is being followed,” Khoroshilov, 38, said in a phone interview. “Some forces in the highest echelons of power might take some kind of decisive action if they see support among the people.” Putin’s core supporters appear to be focused on the notion that any problems in the war are not his fault, but that he was being misled by senior officials or the military leadership. That was the message sent by Ramzan Kadyrov, the strongman ruler of the southern Russian region of Chechnya. He posted a rambling voice message to his Telegram account over the weekend and warned that if the military did not change its strategy “today or tomorrow,” he would be forced “to speak to the Defense Ministry’s leadership and the country’s leadership to explain to them the real situation on the ground.” Zatulin, the senior lawmaker, said that many in Russia believed that “Putin was wrongly informed and doesn’t know everything, that he was deluded.” “The president himself maintains his authority and is the foundation of stability at this moment,” Zatulin said. But, he cautioned, “it’s clear that any system has its limits.”

As Russian losses mount in Ukraine, so does criticism back home

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<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>Ivan Pechorin, a Russian energy executive, has died under mysterious circumstances as he reportedly fell from a speeding boat on Saturday night. A report by CNN mentioned that he was found dead in Vladivostok.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pechorin was the top manager for the Corporation for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-it-shot-down-iranian-made-drone-used-by-russia-in-kharkiv-516025">Ukraine says it shot down Iranian-made drone used by Russia in Kharkiv - see pictures</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>A statement from the company published Monday read: "On September 12, 2022, it became known about the tragic death of our colleague, Ivan Pechorin, Managing Director for the Aviation Industry of the Corporation for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Ivan's death is an irreparable loss for friends and colleagues, a great loss for the corporation. We offer our sincere condolences to family and friends," it further added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-aims-to-free-all-russian-occupied-areas-after-recapturing-8000-sq-km-515931">Ukraine aims to free all Russian-occupied areas after recapturing 8,000 sqkm</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;203 days of Russia-Ukraine war: Ukrainian forces provide aid to residents of recaptured cities&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Citing the administration of Vladivostok, the Russian state media outlet RIA Novosti reported that Ivan's body was found near the village of Beregovoe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local media reports mentioned that Pechorin drowned on September 10 near Cape Ignatyev in Vladivostok.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ivan Pechorin is at least the ninth on the list of prominent Russian businessmen, who have reportedly died by suicide or under unexplained circumstances,&nbsp;since late January.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Among those, six were associated with Russia's two largest energy companies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, Lukoil's chairman Ravil Maganov had died. In the first week of September, reports emerged that Maganov died after falling out of the window of a hospital in Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ivan Pechorin, a Russian energy executive, has died under mysterious circumstances as he reportedly fell from a speeding boat on Saturday night. A report by CNN mentioned that he was found dead in Vladivostok. Pechorin was the top manager for the Corporation for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic. ALSO READ | Ukraine says it shot down Iranian-made drone used by Russia in Kharkiv - see pictures A statement from the company published Monday read: "On September 12, 2022, it became known about the tragic death of our colleague, Ivan Pechorin, Managing Director for the Aviation Industry of the Corporation for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic." "Ivan's death is an irreparable loss for friends and colleagues, a great loss for the corporation. We offer our sincere condolences to family and friends," it further added. ALSO READ | Ukraine aims to free all Russian-occupied areas after recapturing 8,000 sqkm WATCH | 203 days of Russia-Ukraine war: Ukrainian forces provide aid to residents of recaptured cities × Citing the administration of Vladivostok, the Russian state media outlet RIA Novosti reported that Ivan's body was found near the village of Beregovoe. Local media reports mentioned that Pechorin drowned on September 10 near Cape Ignatyev in Vladivostok. Ivan Pechorin is at least the ninth on the list of prominent Russian businessmen, who have reportedly died by suicide or under unexplained circumstances, since late January. Among those, six were associated with Russia's two largest energy companies. Recently, Lukoil's chairman Ravil Maganov had died. In the first week of September, reports emerged that Maganov died after falling out of the window of a hospital in 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.

Who is Ivan Pechorin? Another Russian businessman dies under mysterious circumstances

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<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>In the latest development, the Ukrainian defence ministry said on Tuesday (September 13) that it shot down an Iranian-made Shahed-136 drone or unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), which is said to be used by the Russian armed forces, near Kupiansk, in Kharkiv. A town in the Kharkiv region which was recently recaptured by Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is the first time Kyiv said it has eliminated one such device and it is also the first evidence of a Russia-operated Iranian suicide drone in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-aims-to-free-all-russian-occupied-areas-after-recapturing-8000-sq-km-515931">Ukraine aims to free all Russian-occupied areas after recapturing 8,000 sqkm</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>An image has been shared by the Ukrainian defence ministry that apparently shows parts of the destroyed drone. On the debris, the Cyrillic designation "M214 Geran-2: is there. The wingtip appeared to match that of a Shahed-136.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a>: In the first credible sighting of Iranian drones in use by Russian forces, here we see the remains of a HESA Shahed-136 loitering munition (or a design based on it), which is made in Iran. From the appearance, it seems it likely detonated.<br />
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Images via <a href="https://twitter.com/kms_d4k?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kms_d4k</a> <a href="https://t.co/LUBKrPAMNc">pic.twitter.com/LUBKrPAMNc</a></p>
— 🇺🇦 Ukraine Weapons Tracker (@UAWeapons) <a href="https://twitter.com/UAWeapons/status/1569575587395633152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Iranian attack UAV Shahed-136, eliminated by the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAarmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAarmy</a> near Kupiansk, Kharkiv region.<br />
🇷🇺 and 🇮🇷: A perfect union of two despots.<br />
📷 <a href="https://twitter.com/kms_d4k?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kms_d4k</a> <a href="https://t.co/M7sQ9PX1hJ">pic.twitter.com/M7sQ9PX1hJ</a></p>
— Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceU/status/1569656261641117696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;203 days of Russia-Ukraine war: Ukrainian forces provide aid to residents of recaptured cities&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Some of the military experts have said Iranian drones would be useful to Russia for both reconnaissances and as loitering munitions in Ukraine. Such weapons can provide Russia's time in locating and engaging suitable targets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although Iran has not released key details of the Shahed drone, some experts have suggested that has a range of about 2,000 kilometres (1,240 miles), which means it is capable of hitting precise targets from a long range.&nbsp;</p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. In the latest development, the Ukrainian defence ministry said on Tuesday (September 13) that it shot down an Iranian-made Shahed-136 drone or unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), which is said to be used by the Russian armed forces, near Kupiansk, in Kharkiv. A town in the Kharkiv region which was recently recaptured by Ukraine. This is the first time Kyiv said it has eliminated one such device and it is also the first evidence of a Russia-operated Iranian suicide drone in Ukraine. ALSO READ | Ukraine aims to free all Russian-occupied areas after recapturing 8,000 sqkm An image has been shared by the Ukrainian defence ministry that apparently shows parts of the destroyed drone. On the debris, the Cyrillic designation "M214 Geran-2: is there. The wingtip appeared to match that of a Shahed-136. #Ukraine: In the first credible sighting of Iranian drones in use by Russian forces, here we see the remains of a HESA Shahed-136 loitering munition (or a design based on it), which is made in Iran. From the appearance, it seems it likely detonated. Images via @kms_d4k pic.twitter.com/LUBKrPAMNc — 🇺🇦 Ukraine Weapons Tracker (@UAWeapons) September 13, 2022 × Iranian attack UAV Shahed-136, eliminated by the #UAarmy near Kupiansk, Kharkiv region. 🇷🇺 and 🇮🇷: A perfect union of two despots. 📷 @kms_d4k pic.twitter.com/M7sQ9PX1hJ — Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) September 13, 2022 × WATCH | 203 days of Russia-Ukraine war: Ukrainian forces provide aid to residents of recaptured cities × Some of the military experts have said Iranian drones would be useful to Russia for both reconnaissances and as loitering munitions in Ukraine. Such weapons can provide Russia's time in locating and engaging suitable targets. Although Iran has not released key details of the Shahed drone, some experts have suggested that has a range of about 2,000 kilometres (1,240 miles), which means it is capable of hitting precise targets from a long range. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine says it shot down Iranian-made drone used by Russia in Kharkiv - see pictures