Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday (January 25) that the Donald Trump administration in the United States (US) had not stopped military aid to Kyiv.
&ldquo;I am focused on military aid; it has not been stopped, thank God,&rdquo; President Zelensky said at a press conference alongside his Moldovan counterpart Maia Sandu.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-secretary-of-state-marco-rubio-donald-trump-freezes-foreign-aid-military-funding-for-israel-egypt-8651682" rel="dofollow">'Manufactured chaos': US freezes nearly all foreign aid including for Ukraine; military funding for Israel, Egypt excempted</a>
Zelensky did not clarify whether humanitarian aid had been paused. Ukraine relies on the US for 40 per cent of its military needs.
<h2>US aid to Ukraine remains uncertain</h2>
Zelensky's remarks came days after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that he would pause foreign aid grants for 90 days.
The future of US aid to Ukraine remained uncertain as President Donald Trump started his second term in office earlier this week.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-vladimir-putin-russia-ukraine-war-west-asia-crisis-reduction-in-oil-prices-8651474" rel="dofollow">If Trump's victory hadn't been stolen in 2020 polls, there wouldn't be crisis in Ukraine, Putin says</a>
Trump repeatedly said he wouldn&rsquo;t have allowed Russia&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine to start if he had been in office.
But he was American president as fighting grew in the east of Ukraine between Kyiv&rsquo;s forces and separatists aligned with Moscow, ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin sending in tens of thousands of troops in 2022.
<h2>Zelensky should've made deal with Putin to avoid war</h2>
On Thursday, Trump told Fox News that Zelensky should have made a deal with Trump to avoid the war.&nbsp;
Also watch | Ukraine conflict fuels US-Russia divide
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2501_wion_terump_8am/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2501_wion_terump_8am.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=230&amp;tags=Russia-Ukraine war" title="Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine conflict fuels US-Russia divide" id="PL_iframe_block-m6d9oftw-ny50lf8m-7mtzfvtn"></iframe>
With Trump stressing the need to quickly broker a peace deal, both Moscow and Kyiv are seeking battlefield successes to strengthen their negotiating positions ahead of any prospective talks.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Ukraine relies on the US for 40% of its military needs. The future of US aid to Ukraine remained uncertain as Trump started his second term in office earlier this week.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday (January 25) that the Donald Trump administration in the United States (US) had not stopped military aid to Kyiv. “I am focused on military aid; it has not been stopped, thank God,” President Zelensky said at a press conference alongside his Moldovan counterpart Maia Sandu. Also read | 'Manufactured chaos': US freezes nearly all foreign aid including for Ukraine; military funding for Israel, Egypt excempted Zelensky did not clarify whether humanitarian aid had been paused. Ukraine relies on the US for 40 per cent of its military needs. US aid to Ukraine remains uncertain Zelensky's remarks came days after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that he would pause foreign aid grants for 90 days. The future of US aid to Ukraine remained uncertain as President Donald Trump started his second term in office earlier this week. Also read | If Trump's victory hadn't been stolen in 2020 polls, there wouldn't be crisis in Ukraine, Putin says Trump repeatedly said he wouldn’t have allowed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine to start if he had been in office. But he was American president as fighting grew in the east of Ukraine between Kyiv’s forces and separatists aligned with Moscow, ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin sending in tens of thousands of troops in 2022. Zelensky should've made deal with Putin to avoid war On Thursday, Trump told Fox News that Zelensky should have made a deal with Trump to avoid the war. Also watch | Ukraine conflict fuels US-Russia divide With Trump stressing the need to quickly broker a peace deal, both Moscow and Kyiv are seeking battlefield successes to strengthen their negotiating positions ahead of any prospective talks. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: Zelensky says US has not stopped military aid to Kyiv

End of US support for Ukraine post-war? Watch in for more details.

End of US support for Ukraine post war?

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine conflict fuels US-Russia divide. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine conflict fuels US-Russia divide

Russian President Vladimir Putin says he is ready for dialogue with Donald Trump. The Kremlin states that Putin is waiting for a signal from Washington. This statement comes just a day after the US president said that he wants to talk with Putin, pushing for a reduction in nuclear arsenals amid the escalating tensions in Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine war: Vladimir Putin praises Trump, says will talk soon

In a controversial statement, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the 2022 war between Russia and Ukraine would not have taken place if Trump had been the President of the US at that time.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-donald-trump-urges-global-nuclear-talks-amid-rising-tensions">Russia-Ukraine War: Donald Trump urges global nuclear talks amid rising tensions</a>
&ldquo;I cannot but agree with him that if he had been president&mdash;if his victory hadn&rsquo;t been stolen in 2020&mdash;then maybe there would not have been the crisis in Ukraine that emerged in 2022," the Russian president said.&nbsp;
Trump has consistently claimed that the 2020 US presidential election, which the Republicans lost, was "stolen" and "rigged".&nbsp;
<h2>'Not only a smart person but...'</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-sign-executive-order-to-fundamentally-overhaul-or-get-rid-of-fema-as-he-arrives-in-north-carolina-8651345">Trump to sign executive order to 'fundamentally overhaul' or 'get rid of FEMA' as he arrives in North Carolina</a>
Russian President Vladimir Putin praised US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jan 24) as he called Trump "smart" and "pragmatic" in an interview. He praised the Republican for his approach to handling global issues.
&ldquo;I have a hard time imagining there will be decisions taken that are detrimental to the American economy,&rdquo; Putin said. He further added that fluctuations in oil prices would be harmful for both the US and Russia. &ldquo;He is not only a smart person, but a pragmatic person,&rdquo; Putin said in his statement.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-receives-757-fallen-soldiers-in-major-repatriation">Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv receives 757 fallen soldiers in major repatriation</a>&nbsp;
<h2>Reduction in oil prices can end conflict?</h2>
Putin's statement came after Trump said at the World Economic Forum on Thursday (Jan 23) that a reduction in the prices of oil could bring an end to the Russia-Ukrainian conflict.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sadbait-how-algorithms-audiences-and-creators-thrive-on-emotional-content">'Sadbait': How algorithms, audiences, and creators thrive on emotional content</a>
Although, despite Trump's suggestion, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed the idea that oil prices could resolve the conflict. &ldquo;The conflict is ongoing because of the threat to Russia's national security, the threat to Russians living on those territories, and the refusal by the Americans and Europeans to listen to Russia&rsquo;s security concerns,&rdquo; Peskov said in response.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Donald Trump has repeatedly alleged that the US presidential election was manipulated, sparking widespread debates and legal challenges across the country.

In a controversial statement, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the 2022 war between Russia and Ukraine would not have taken place if Trump had been the President of the US at that time. Also read: Russia-Ukraine War: Donald Trump urges global nuclear talks amid rising tensions “I cannot but agree with him that if he had been president—if his victory hadn’t been stolen in 2020—then maybe there would not have been the crisis in Ukraine that emerged in 2022," the Russian president said. Trump has consistently claimed that the 2020 US presidential election, which the Republicans lost, was "stolen" and "rigged". 'Not only a smart person but...' Also read: Trump to sign executive order to 'fundamentally overhaul' or 'get rid of FEMA' as he arrives in North Carolina Russian President Vladimir Putin praised US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jan 24) as he called Trump "smart" and "pragmatic" in an interview. He praised the Republican for his approach to handling global issues. “I have a hard time imagining there will be decisions taken that are detrimental to the American economy,” Putin said. He further added that fluctuations in oil prices would be harmful for both the US and Russia. “He is not only a smart person, but a pragmatic person,” Putin said in his statement. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv receives 757 fallen soldiers in major repatriation Reduction in oil prices can end conflict? Putin's statement came after Trump said at the World Economic Forum on Thursday (Jan 23) that a reduction in the prices of oil could bring an end to the Russia-Ukrainian conflict. Also read: 'Sadbait': How algorithms, audiences, and creators thrive on emotional content Although, despite Trump's suggestion, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed the idea that oil prices could resolve the conflict. “The conflict is ongoing because of the threat to Russia's national security, the threat to Russians living on those territories, and the refusal by the Americans and Europeans to listen to Russia’s security concerns,” Peskov said in response. (With inputs from agencies)

If Trump's victory hadn't been stolen in 2020 polls, there wouldn't be crisis in Ukraine, Putin says

Russian aerial attacks near Kyiv killed three people and wounded several others, Ukrainian officials said Friday, while Ukrainian drones targeted sites in 12 Russian regions, halting work at one factory.
Moscow has launched drone or missile attacks almost every day on the capital since it launched its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, ostensibly targeting military and energy facilities.
Black smoke billowed from a residential building damaged in the Russian strike as rescue workers hauled out the bodies of the victims, official images from the scene showed.
"Three people were killed in an enemy attack in the Kyiv region," the emergency services said in a statement on social media.
It said fragments of a drone had struck a 10-storey residential building after the head of the region said a private home had also been hit.
The Ukrainian air force said that its air defence systems had shot down 25 Russian attack drones over seven regions, including Kyiv and the western Lviv region.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky lashed out at Russia and said Ukrainian allies should clamp down on sanctions to stop Moscow from producing arms.
"There must be accountability for every component for the production of Shaheds and missiles that are supplied in violation of sanctions," he said in a statement on social media.
The attack outside Kyiv came as Russian authorities said they repelled a Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow.
The Russian defence ministry said its air defence systems had shot down 121 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles over Moscow, the occupied Crimean peninsula, and also the western Bryansk region.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-military-hits-russian-oil-depot-used-by-moscows-air-force-8601542">Ukrainian military hits Russian oil depot used by Moscow's air force</a>
State media reported that a microelectronics factory had halted work after six Ukrainian drones damaged production and storage facilities in the Bryansk region.
Moscow and Kyiv are vying for advantage ahead of possible negotiations in the early days of US President Donald Trump's administration.
Prior to his inauguration, Trump vowed to end the Ukraine war immediately upon taking office, raising expectations he would leverage aid to force Kyiv to make concessions to Russia, which invaded in February 2022.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-killed-in-russian-drone-and-missile-attack-on-ukraines-kyiv-8632609">Four killed in Russian drone and missile attack on Ukraine&rsquo;s Kyiv</a>
But this week he stepped up pressure on Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to make a deal, threatening tougher economic measures if Moscow does not agree to end the nearly three-year-old war.
During a Fox News interview on Thursday, Trump said: "If they don't settle this war soon, like almost immediately, I'm going to put massive tariffs on Russia, and massive taxes, and also big sanctions.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | Moscow has launched drone or missile attacks almost every day on the capital since it launched its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Russian aerial attacks near Kyiv killed three people and wounded several others, Ukrainian officials said Friday, while Ukrainian drones targeted sites in 12 Russian regions, halting work at one factory. Moscow has launched drone or missile attacks almost every day on the capital since it launched its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, ostensibly targeting military and energy facilities. Black smoke billowed from a residential building damaged in the Russian strike as rescue workers hauled out the bodies of the victims, official images from the scene showed. "Three people were killed in an enemy attack in the Kyiv region," the emergency services said in a statement on social media. It said fragments of a drone had struck a 10-storey residential building after the head of the region said a private home had also been hit. The Ukrainian air force said that its air defence systems had shot down 25 Russian attack drones over seven regions, including Kyiv and the western Lviv region. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky lashed out at Russia and said Ukrainian allies should clamp down on sanctions to stop Moscow from producing arms. "There must be accountability for every component for the production of Shaheds and missiles that are supplied in violation of sanctions," he said in a statement on social media. The attack outside Kyiv came as Russian authorities said they repelled a Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow. The Russian defence ministry said its air defence systems had shot down 121 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles over Moscow, the occupied Crimean peninsula, and also the western Bryansk region. Also read: Ukrainian military hits Russian oil depot used by Moscow's air force State media reported that a microelectronics factory had halted work after six Ukrainian drones damaged production and storage facilities in the Bryansk region. Moscow and Kyiv are vying for advantage ahead of possible negotiations in the early days of US President Donald Trump's administration. Prior to his inauguration, Trump vowed to end the Ukraine war immediately upon taking office, raising expectations he would leverage aid to force Kyiv to make concessions to Russia, which invaded in February 2022. Also read: Four killed in Russian drone and missile attack on Ukraine’s Kyiv But this week he stepped up pressure on Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to make a deal, threatening tougher economic measures if Moscow does not agree to end the nearly three-year-old war. During a Fox News interview on Thursday, Trump said: "If they don't settle this war soon, like almost immediately, I'm going to put massive tariffs on Russia, and massive taxes, and also big sanctions. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Russian aerial attacks kill three near Kyiv; Ukraine targets sites in 12 Russian regions

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday he wanted to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin as soon as possible to secure an end to the war with Ukraine and expressed a desire to work towards cutting nuclear arms.
In the run-up to his Nov. 5 election victory, Trump declared many times that he would have a deal in place between Ukraine and Russia on his first day in office, if not before. His advisers now concede the war will take months to resolve.
"I really would like to be able to meet with President Putin soon to get that war ended," Trump, who returned to the White House on Monday, told the World Economic Forum in Davos via video link.
"And that's not from the standpoint of economy or anything else. It's from the standpoint of millions of lives are being wasted ... It's a carnage. And we really have to stop that war."
Speaking at the White House later in the day, Trump told reporters he was ready to meet with Putin as soon as possible to end what he called a ridiculous war.
"From what I hear, Putin would like to see me, and we'll leave as soon as we can. I'd meet immediately," Trump said. "Everyday we don't meet, soldiers are being killed in the battlefield."
Trump added that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy had told him he was ready to make a deal to end the war.
Trump told participants in Davos that U.S. efforts to secure a peace settlement were now hopefully under way, but gave no details. Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stop-this-ridiculous-war-now-trump-warns-putin-or-else-face-tariffs-sanctions-8645201">'STOP this ridiculous war now or else face high tariffs, sanctions': Trump warns Putin</a>
Earlier this week, Trump threatened to impose "high levels" of sanctions on Russia and tariffs on imports from there if Moscow did not reach a settlement.
Trump also told the crowd on Thursday he wants to work towards cutting nuclear arms, adding that he thought Russia and China might support reducing their own weapons capabilities.
"We'd like to see denuclearization ... and I will tell you President Putin really liked the idea of cutting way back on nuclear. And I think the rest of the world, we would have gotten them to follow, and China would have come along too," Trump said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-signs-executive-orders-to-promote-cryptocurrencies-ban-creation-of-digital-dollar-8648719">Trump signs executive orders to promote cryptocurrencies, ban creation of &lsquo;digital dollar&rsquo;</a>
Putin has threatened to use nuclear weapons in his war against Ukraine. Putin has been modernising his nuclear forces and rejected talks with Washington on replacing New START, the last U.S.-Russia arms limitation pact, when it expires on Feb. 5, 2026.
In November, U.S. officials said Putin remains within the limits set by the treaty despite his 2023 suspension of the pact that holds Russia and the United States to deploying 1,550 strategic nuclear warheads on 700 intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarines and bombers.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | Trump also told the crowd on Thursday he wants to work towards cutting nuclear arms, adding that he thought Russia and China might support reducing their own capabilities.

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday he wanted to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin as soon as possible to secure an end to the war with Ukraine and expressed a desire to work towards cutting nuclear arms. In the run-up to his Nov. 5 election victory, Trump declared many times that he would have a deal in place between Ukraine and Russia on his first day in office, if not before. His advisers now concede the war will take months to resolve. "I really would like to be able to meet with President Putin soon to get that war ended," Trump, who returned to the White House on Monday, told the World Economic Forum in Davos via video link. "And that's not from the standpoint of economy or anything else. It's from the standpoint of millions of lives are being wasted ... It's a carnage. And we really have to stop that war." Speaking at the White House later in the day, Trump told reporters he was ready to meet with Putin as soon as possible to end what he called a ridiculous war. "From what I hear, Putin would like to see me, and we'll leave as soon as we can. I'd meet immediately," Trump said. "Everyday we don't meet, soldiers are being killed in the battlefield." Trump added that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy had told him he was ready to make a deal to end the war. Trump told participants in Davos that U.S. efforts to secure a peace settlement were now hopefully under way, but gave no details. Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Also read: 'STOP this ridiculous war now or else face high tariffs, sanctions': Trump warns Putin Earlier this week, Trump threatened to impose "high levels" of sanctions on Russia and tariffs on imports from there if Moscow did not reach a settlement. Trump also told the crowd on Thursday he wants to work towards cutting nuclear arms, adding that he thought Russia and China might support reducing their own weapons capabilities. "We'd like to see denuclearization ... and I will tell you President Putin really liked the idea of cutting way back on nuclear. And I think the rest of the world, we would have gotten them to follow, and China would have come along too," Trump said. Also read: Trump signs executive orders to promote cryptocurrencies, ban creation of ‘digital dollar’ Putin has threatened to use nuclear weapons in his war against Ukraine. Putin has been modernising his nuclear forces and rejected talks with Washington on replacing New START, the last U.S.-Russia arms limitation pact, when it expires on Feb. 5, 2026. In November, U.S. officials said Putin remains within the limits set by the treaty despite his 2023 suspension of the pact that holds Russia and the United States to deploying 1,550 strategic nuclear warheads on 700 intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarines and bombers. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Trump ready to meet Russia's Putin 'immediately' to help end Russia-Ukraine war

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday he wanted to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin as soon as possible to secure an end to the war with Ukraine and expressed a desire to work towards cutting nuclear arms.

Davos Summit 2025: Trump says he's ready to meet Putin 'immediately' to secure end of Ukraine war

Kyiv accused Russian forces on Thursday of killing six captured Ukrainian servicemen and said it was notifying international rights groups of the latest alleged Russian war crime.
Officials both in Moscow and Kyiv have accused the other's army of carrying out killings of captured soldiers in violation of international law.
The Ukrainian human rights ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets made the allegations referring to footage circulating on social media that appears to show Russian troops shooting unarmed Ukrainian troops to death.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-wef-in-davos-ukraines-zelensky-questions-whether-trump-is-committed-to-nato-8641969" rel="dofollow">At WEF in Davos, Ukraine's Zelensky questions whether Trump is committed to NATO</a>
"In the video, the occupiers recorded their own crime&mdash;shooting six Ukrainian soldiers who were captured in the back," he wrote in a social media post.
The video, which has spread across social media, could not be verified by AFP, and there was no immediate comment from Moscow on the claims.
It appears to show Russian soldiers in a muddied frontline area ordering the Ukrainian troops to a clearing where they are then shot in the back one by one.
"I am once again sending information about this crime to the UN and the ICRC (International Committee of the Red Cross). These facts must be recorded," Lubinets added.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: Since the war began in late February 2022, Moscow and Kyiv have accused the other's army of carrying out killings of captured soldiers in violation of international law.


Kyiv accused Russian forces on Thursday of killing six captured Ukrainian servicemen and said it was notifying international rights groups of the latest alleged Russian war crime. Officials both in Moscow and Kyiv have accused the other's army of carrying out killings of captured soldiers in violation of international law. The Ukrainian human rights ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets made the allegations referring to footage circulating on social media that appears to show Russian troops shooting unarmed Ukrainian troops to death. Also read | At WEF in Davos, Ukraine's Zelensky questions whether Trump is committed to NATO "In the video, the occupiers recorded their own crime—shooting six Ukrainian soldiers who were captured in the back," he wrote in a social media post. The video, which has spread across social media, could not be verified by AFP, and there was no immediate comment from Moscow on the claims. It appears to show Russian soldiers in a muddied frontline area ordering the Ukrainian troops to a clearing where they are then shot in the back one by one. "I am once again sending information about this crime to the UN and the ICRC (International Committee of the Red Cross). These facts must be recorded," Lubinets added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ukraine accuses Russian military of killing six captured troops

President Donald Trump stepped up pressure on Russia to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine, and threatened financial penalties on the country if it refuses to conclude fighting swiftly.

Trump threatens ‘Taxes, Tariffs and Sanctions’ on Russia, unless they end war in Ukraine

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday indicated he may impose fresh sanctions on Russia if President Vladimir Putin refuses to negotiate a deal to end the war in Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine war: Will trump end Russia-Ukraine war in 100 days?

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jan 21) said that Russian President Vladimir Putin was "destroying Russia" by not making a deal to end the war with its neighbour Ukraine. The Republican leader, who is known to have a direct line with Putin, also warned that Russia is 'going to be in big trouble'.
<h2>Putin destroying Russia: Trump</h2>
Trump claimed that Putin was destroying Russia by not striking a deal to end the war that started in February 2022.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-grants-full-pardon-to-1500-jan-6-rioters-8639070">Donald Trump pardons 1,500 Jan 6 rioters, declares them political 'hostages'</a>
"He (Putin) should make a deal. I think he's destroying Russia by not making a deal," the 47th President of the United States told reporters on his return to the Oval Office.
"I think Russia's going to be in big trouble," Trump added.
Trump's unusually critical comments about the Russian president are surprising, given his past admiration for Putin.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-first-executive-orders-orders-major-rollback-of-biden-era-policies-exit-from-paris-climate-agreement-and-more-8639056">Bye-bye Biden: Trump's inaugural executive orders mark major rollback of Biden-era policies</a>
The newly inaugurated US president also announced plans to meet Putin, albeit without sharing a timeline.
According to AFP news agency, a summit between the two leaders during Trump's first term gained notoriety when the US president appeared to side with the Russian leader against US intelligence.
"I got along with him great, I would hope he wants to make a deal," said Trump, adding "He (Putin) can't be thrilled he's not doing so well."
"I mean, he's grinding it out, but most people thought that war would have been over in about one week, and now you're into three years, right?" he said.
Trump said that the war was hitting the Russian economy hard, which is also being battered by inflation.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-skipped-placing-his-hand-on-bible-while-taking-oath-as-us-president-is-it-really-necessary-8639033" aria-label="Trump didn't place his hand on Bible while taking oath as US president. Is it necessary?">Trump didn't place his hand on Bible while taking oath as US president. Is it necessary?</a>
<h2>Zelensky wants a deal&nbsp;</h2>
The Republican, who in the past has repeatedly criticised Ukrainian President Volodymyr, said: "Zelensky wants to make a deal".
Trump said that Zelensky had told him that he wanted a peace agreement to end the ongoing war, which started with Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Watch | PM Modi, Zelenskyy, Putin congratulate Trump on becoming 47th US President
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2101_WION_WORLD_LEADERS_TRUMP_7AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2101_WION_WORLD_LEADERS_TRUMP_7AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=153&amp;tags=world news, wion, viral news, latest news, news" title="PM Modi, Zelenskyy, Putin congratulate Trump on becoming 47th US President" id="PL_iframe_block-m65vo7mv-s20izu39-4sgvvn6b"></iframe>
"Zelensky wants to make a deal," said Trump, who during his campaign has repeatedly vowed that he will end the Russia-Ukraine war quickly, with his aides suggesting leveraging US aid to force Kyiv to make concessions.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news | Discover how Trump's latest remarks on Putin highlight a shift in his stance, as he criticises the Russian leader for not ending the war with Ukraine.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jan 21) said that Russian President Vladimir Putin was "destroying Russia" by not making a deal to end the war with its neighbour Ukraine. The Republican leader, who is known to have a direct line with Putin, also warned that Russia is 'going to be in big trouble'. Putin destroying Russia: Trump Trump claimed that Putin was destroying Russia by not striking a deal to end the war that started in February 2022. Also read | Donald Trump pardons 1,500 Jan 6 rioters, declares them political 'hostages' "He (Putin) should make a deal. I think he's destroying Russia by not making a deal," the 47th President of the United States told reporters on his return to the Oval Office. "I think Russia's going to be in big trouble," Trump added. Trump's unusually critical comments about the Russian president are surprising, given his past admiration for Putin. Also read | Bye-bye Biden: Trump's inaugural executive orders mark major rollback of Biden-era policies The newly inaugurated US president also announced plans to meet Putin, albeit without sharing a timeline. According to AFP news agency, a summit between the two leaders during Trump's first term gained notoriety when the US president appeared to side with the Russian leader against US intelligence. "I got along with him great, I would hope he wants to make a deal," said Trump, adding "He (Putin) can't be thrilled he's not doing so well." "I mean, he's grinding it out, but most people thought that war would have been over in about one week, and now you're into three years, right?" he said. Trump said that the war was hitting the Russian economy hard, which is also being battered by inflation. Also read | Trump didn't place his hand on Bible while taking oath as US president. Is it necessary? Zelensky wants a deal The Republican, who in the past has repeatedly criticised Ukrainian President Volodymyr, said: "Zelensky wants to make a deal". Trump said that Zelensky had told him that he wanted a peace agreement to end the ongoing war, which started with Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Watch | PM Modi, Zelenskyy, Putin congratulate Trump on becoming 47th US President "Zelensky wants to make a deal," said Trump, who during his campaign has repeatedly vowed that he will end the Russia-Ukraine war quickly, with his aides suggesting leveraging US aid to force Kyiv to make concessions. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump says Putin 'destroying Russia' by not signing a deal to end Ukraine war

Three high-ranking officers of the Ukrainian Army were detained over alleged inaction to halt a Russian offensive as the war between Russia and Ukraine rages on.
In a statement, the office of the Ukrainian prosecutor said on Monday (Jan 20) that it detained two generals for inaction that led to the seizure of part of the Kharkiv region last year.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-accuses-ukraine-of-civilian-killings-in-village-seized-by-kyivs-army-8635967" rel="dofollow">Russia accuses Ukraine of civilian killings in village seized by Kyiv's army</a>
The generals were formally notified they were being investigated for "negligence."&nbsp;A third official with the rank of colonel was being probed on the same charges, as well as for "abandoning the battlefield" without permission, a statement read.
<h2>The consequences of the inaction</h2>
The general prosecutor's office said the three officials had been detained and posted images apparently showing officers arriving at the suspects' homes.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-when-russians-hide-north-koreans-shoot-how-pyongyangs-troops-are-reshaping-8633581" rel="dofollow">'When Russians hide, North Koreans shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war</a>
The office pointed out the men's negligence had resulted in the loss of Ukrainian weapons, territory, and military personnel.
<h2>Latest from Russia-Ukraine war</h2>
The above developments came as Ukraine attacked a Russian-occupied town in the southern Kherson region on Monday, killing two people and wounding more than a dozen others.
According to Russian authorities, the Ukrainian military fired "cluster munitions" near a school in the town of Bekhtery when students and teachers were on their way to lessons.
At least 19 people, including two children, were wounded in the attack. Citing state media, a report by the news agency AFP said that the two children were in a serious condition.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Russia said that its forces captured two more villages in east Ukraine, including one just a few kilometres from Pokrovsk, a key supply hub for Kyiv's forces.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.
&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: The developments came as Ukraine attacked a Russian-occupied town in the southern Kherson region on Monday, killing two people and wounding more than a dozen others.

Three high-ranking officers of the Ukrainian Army were detained over alleged inaction to halt a Russian offensive as the war between Russia and Ukraine rages on. In a statement, the office of the Ukrainian prosecutor said on Monday (Jan 20) that it detained two generals for inaction that led to the seizure of part of the Kharkiv region last year. Also read | Russia accuses Ukraine of civilian killings in village seized by Kyiv's army The generals were formally notified they were being investigated for "negligence." A third official with the rank of colonel was being probed on the same charges, as well as for "abandoning the battlefield" without permission, a statement read. The consequences of the inaction The general prosecutor's office said the three officials had been detained and posted images apparently showing officers arriving at the suspects' homes. Also read | 'When Russians hide, North Koreans shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war The office pointed out the men's negligence had resulted in the loss of Ukrainian weapons, territory, and military personnel. Latest from Russia-Ukraine war The above developments came as Ukraine attacked a Russian-occupied town in the southern Kherson region on Monday, killing two people and wounding more than a dozen others. According to Russian authorities, the Ukrainian military fired "cluster munitions" near a school in the town of Bekhtery when students and teachers were on their way to lessons. At least 19 people, including two children, were wounded in the attack. Citing state media, a report by the news agency AFP said that the two children were in a serious condition. Meanwhile, Russia said that its forces captured two more villages in east Ukraine, including one just a few kilometres from Pokrovsk, a key supply hub for Kyiv's forces. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: Three high-ranking Ukrainian Army officers detained over alleged inaction to halt Russian offensive

Russia on Sunday said it had opened a criminal investigation into allegations that Ukrainian troops killed civilians in a Russian village that had been seized by Kyiv's army.
Ukraine has taken dozens of border settlements under its control in the western Russian Kursk region since launching a surprise offensive there last August and says around 2,000 civilians still live in areas under its occupation.
Russia has slowly been pushing Ukraine back and has retaken a number of villages.
Russia's Investigative Committee, which probes major crimes, on Sunday alleged Ukrainian troops "committed the murder of at least seven civilians, who were sheltering in the basement of a residential house" in the village of Russkoe Porechnoye, some 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the border.
Several Russian state media outlets had overnight published video, supplied by the army, that they said showed Russian troops discovering several dead bodies in a dark basement.
AFP could not immediately verify the claims or the video, which showed troops in a dark room moving blankets and clothes off the bodies and faces of what they said were dead civilians.
There has been no official response from Ukraine.
Also Read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-three-israeli-hostages-romi-gonen-emily-damari-doron-steinbrecher-handed-over-to-red-cross-israel-hamas-war-8635634"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-three-israeli-hostages-romi-gonen-emily-damari-doron-steinbrecher-handed-over-to-red-cross-israel-hamas-war-8635634">First three Israeli hostages released by Hamas after Gaza ceasefire: Where do they go next?</a>
In a statement, Russia's foreign ministry spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova, accused Ukraine of the "cannibalistic massacre of civilians".
Both Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of having killed and targeted civilians throughout the three-year conflict.
Russian forces are accused of having murdered hundreds of civilians in the Ukrainian town of Bucha during a month-long occupation at the start of the conflict.
AFP reporters were among the international journalists to witness and photograph the bodies of killed Ukrainian civilians, including some with their hands tied, in the town.
Also Read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/donald-trumps-meme-coin-could-add-24-billion-to-his-net-worth-report-8635221">Donald Trump's meme coin could add $24 billion to his net worth: Report</a>
The pictures and first-hand accounts from the town triggered outrage in the West and widespread condemnation of alleged Russian "war crimes".
Moscow has rejected committing atrocities in Bucha and accused Kyiv of staging the images&mdash;a claim that has been debunked by several independent fact-checking organisations and media outlets, including AFP.
Russia's army said it retook Russkoe Porechnoye from Ukrainian control last week.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: Ukraine has taken dozens of border settlements under its control in the western Russian Kursk region since launching a surprise offensive there last August and says around 2,000 civilians still live in areas under its occupation.


Russia on Sunday said it had opened a criminal investigation into allegations that Ukrainian troops killed civilians in a Russian village that had been seized by Kyiv's army. Ukraine has taken dozens of border settlements under its control in the western Russian Kursk region since launching a surprise offensive there last August and says around 2,000 civilians still live in areas under its occupation. Russia has slowly been pushing Ukraine back and has retaken a number of villages. Russia's Investigative Committee, which probes major crimes, on Sunday alleged Ukrainian troops "committed the murder of at least seven civilians, who were sheltering in the basement of a residential house" in the village of Russkoe Porechnoye, some 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the border. Several Russian state media outlets had overnight published video, supplied by the army, that they said showed Russian troops discovering several dead bodies in a dark basement. AFP could not immediately verify the claims or the video, which showed troops in a dark room moving blankets and clothes off the bodies and faces of what they said were dead civilians. There has been no official response from Ukraine. Also Read| First three Israeli hostages released by Hamas after Gaza ceasefire: Where do they go next? In a statement, Russia's foreign ministry spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova, accused Ukraine of the "cannibalistic massacre of civilians". Both Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of having killed and targeted civilians throughout the three-year conflict. Russian forces are accused of having murdered hundreds of civilians in the Ukrainian town of Bucha during a month-long occupation at the start of the conflict. AFP reporters were among the international journalists to witness and photograph the bodies of killed Ukrainian civilians, including some with their hands tied, in the town. Also Read| Donald Trump's meme coin could add $24 billion to his net worth: Report The pictures and first-hand accounts from the town triggered outrage in the West and widespread condemnation of alleged Russian "war crimes". Moscow has rejected committing atrocities in Bucha and accused Kyiv of staging the images—a claim that has been debunked by several independent fact-checking organisations and media outlets, including AFP. Russia's army said it retook Russkoe Porechnoye from Ukrainian control last week. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Russia accuses Ukraine of civilian killings in village seized by Kyiv's army

At least four people have been killed and three injured in a Russian drone and missile attack in the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv on Saturday (Jan 18).
The attack that happened at dawn on Saturday took place in the city&rsquo;s centrally located Shevchenkivskyi district, Timur Tkachenko, head of Kyiv&rsquo;s military administration, said.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We already have four dead in Shevchenkivsky district,&rdquo; Tkachenko said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-to-carry-out-most-massive-strike-on-russia-moscow-vows-retaliation-8622222" rel="dofollow">Ukraine claims to carry out 'most massive strike' on Russia, Moscow vows retaliation</a>
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko in a post on Telegram advised people to "stay in shelters". He further warned of a &ldquo;ballistic missile threat&rdquo; against the capital hours earlier.&nbsp;
As the missile hit Kyiv city, windows were shattered in Shevchenkivskyi district, including those at the entrance of the Lukianivska metro station, which was closed down, the mayor said.&nbsp;
Earlier on Saturday, Russian forces "attacked the centre" of Zaporizhzhia, injuring two people, local governor Ivan Fedorov said.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/any-placement-of-british-military-assets-in-ukraine-under-100-year-partnership-concern-for-moscow-russia-8631280" rel="dofollow"> Any placement of British military assets in Ukraine under 100-year partnership concern for Moscow: Russia</a>
<h2>Zelensky shares video</h2>
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky took to X, saying, "The enemy launched a ballistic strike on the center of Kyiv."&nbsp;
"Residential buildings, a metro station, shops, cafes, and other civilian infrastructure have been damaged. All services are continuing their efforts to mitigate the aftermath of the shelling," he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-police-launch-massive-raids-amid-probe-into-exodus-of-military-aged-men-8629630" rel="dofollow">Ukraine police launch massive raids amid probe into exodus of military-aged men</a>
The Ukrainian president also shared a video showing the damage caused by the attack and how Ukrainian forces are managing the situation.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
In the early hours of the morning, the enemy launched a ballistic strike on the center of Kyiv. The area was affected by falling debris. Three people are confirmed dead, and three others were wounded. My condolences to their families and loved ones. Residential buildings, a metro&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/pCw8boyj4V">pic.twitter.com/pCw8boyj4V</a>
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1880550016638484837?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</blockquote>
Zelensky further stressed that in the Zaporizhzhia attack, 10 people had been reportedly injured and some others may still be "trapped under the rubble".
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Під ранок ворог здійснив удар балістикою по центру Києва. Є падіння уламків. Відомо про трьох загиблих і трьох поранених. Мої співчуття рідним та близьким. Пошкоджені житлові будинки, станція метро, магазини, кав&rsquo;ярні та цивільна інфраструктура. Всі служби продовжують&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/nWL0SGiN3y">pic.twitter.com/nWL0SGiN3y</a>
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1880550145130901730?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>


<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Russia claims responsibility</h2>
Russia's army on Saturday said that it hit a Ukrainian rocket manufacturer in Kyiv in retaliation for missile strikes.&nbsp;
"The Russian armed forces carried out a group strike with precision-guided weapons against Ukrainian military-industrial facilities," including a site that designs and manufactures long-range rockets in Kyiv, the Russian defence ministry said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-play-leading-role-in-defending-ukraine-as-starmer-zelensky-ink-100-year-agreement-8627912" rel="dofollow">UK to play 'leading role' in defending Ukraine as Starmer, Zelensky ink 100-year agreement</a>
This comes as Ukraine has intensified its aerial attacks on Russian energy and military facilities in recent months.&nbsp;
Ukraine carried out its largest aerial attack on Russian territory of the nearly three-year war overnight on Tuesday, hitting factories and energy hubs hundreds of miles from the frontline.
The Russian military accused Kyiv of using US- and British-supplied missiles for one of the strikes and promised it would "not go unanswered".
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The attack that happened at dawn on Saturday took place in the city’s centrally located Shevchenkivskyi district, Timur Tkachenko, head of Kyiv’s military administration, said. 

At least four people have been killed and three injured in a Russian drone and missile attack in the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv on Saturday (Jan 18). The attack that happened at dawn on Saturday took place in the city’s centrally located Shevchenkivskyi district, Timur Tkachenko, head of Kyiv’s military administration, said. “We already have four dead in Shevchenkivsky district,” Tkachenko said. Also read: Ukraine claims to carry out 'most massive strike' on Russia, Moscow vows retaliation Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko in a post on Telegram advised people to "stay in shelters". He further warned of a “ballistic missile threat” against the capital hours earlier. As the missile hit Kyiv city, windows were shattered in Shevchenkivskyi district, including those at the entrance of the Lukianivska metro station, which was closed down, the mayor said. Earlier on Saturday, Russian forces "attacked the centre" of Zaporizhzhia, injuring two people, local governor Ivan Fedorov said. Also read: Any placement of British military assets in Ukraine under 100-year partnership concern for Moscow: Russia Zelensky shares video Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky took to X, saying, "The enemy launched a ballistic strike on the center of Kyiv." "Residential buildings, a metro station, shops, cafes, and other civilian infrastructure have been damaged. All services are continuing their efforts to mitigate the aftermath of the shelling," he added. Also read: Ukraine police launch massive raids amid probe into exodus of military-aged men The Ukrainian president also shared a video showing the damage caused by the attack and how Ukrainian forces are managing the situation. In the early hours of the morning, the enemy launched a ballistic strike on the center of Kyiv. The area was affected by falling debris. Three people are confirmed dead, and three others were wounded. My condolences to their families and loved ones. Residential buildings, a metro… pic.twitter.com/pCw8boyj4V — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) January 18, 2025 Zelensky further stressed that in the Zaporizhzhia attack, 10 people had been reportedly injured and some others may still be "trapped under the rubble". Під ранок ворог здійснив удар балістикою по центру Києва. Є падіння уламків. Відомо про трьох загиблих і трьох поранених. Мої співчуття рідним та близьким. Пошкоджені житлові будинки, станція метро, магазини, кав’ярні та цивільна інфраструктура. Всі служби продовжують… pic.twitter.com/nWL0SGiN3y — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) January 18, 2025 Russia claims responsibility Russia's army on Saturday said that it hit a Ukrainian rocket manufacturer in Kyiv in retaliation for missile strikes. "The Russian armed forces carried out a group strike with precision-guided weapons against Ukrainian military-industrial facilities," including a site that designs and manufactures long-range rockets in Kyiv, the Russian defence ministry said. Also read: UK to play 'leading role' in defending Ukraine as Starmer, Zelensky ink 100-year agreement This comes as Ukraine has intensified its aerial attacks on Russian energy and military facilities in recent months. Ukraine carried out its largest aerial attack on Russian territory of the nearly three-year war overnight on Tuesday, hitting factories and energy hubs hundreds of miles from the frontline. The Russian military accused Kyiv of using US- and British-supplied missiles for one of the strikes and promised it would "not go unanswered". Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Video: Russia attacks Kyiv with ballistic missiles and drones, kills four

Russia launched more than 40 missiles and over 70 attack drones in an overnight barrage that targeted Ukraine's energy sector, Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky said Wednesday.

Russia-Ukraine war | Zelensky: 70 drones targeted Ukraine's energy infrastructure

Russian forces are intensifying their efforts to capture key Ukrainian towns in the Donbas as Donald Trump's return to the White House approaches. Fierce fighting continues, with both sides increasing their offensives. Reports indicate that Russian forces have taken control of two settlements recently and conducted strikes on Ukrainian ammunition depots, electronic warfare stations, artillery, and other targets. Russian air defense claims to have intercepted American-made ATACMS, British-made Storm Shadow missiles, HIMARS rockets, and hundreds of drones.

Russia’s Donbas push before Trump returns to the White House

Russia-Ukraine war: '70 drones targeted Ukraine's energy infrastructure: Zelensky

Donald Trump has said that a meeting is being arranged between himself and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

No-holds-barred attacks across multiple warfronts

The United States warned on Wednesday (January 8) that North Korea is &ldquo;significantly benefiting&rdquo; from its troops fighting alongside Russia against Ukraine, gaining experience that makes Pyongyang &ldquo;more capable of waging war against its neighbours.&rdquo;
Russia has forged closer diplomatic and military ties with North Korea since Moscow invaded Ukraine in February 2022.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mel-j-horne-man-arrested-for-trying-to-smuggle-machete-knives-into-us-capitol-ahead-of-trumps-visit-for-jimmy-carter-state-funeral-8603446">Man arrested for trying to smuggle machete, knives into US Capitol ahead of Trump visit</a>
More than 12,000 North Korean troops are in Russia and last month began fighting against Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region, deputy US Ambassador to the UN Dorothy Camille Shea told the United Nations Security Council.
&ldquo;The DPRK is significantly benefiting from receiving Russian military equipment, technology and experience, rendering it more capable of waging war against its neighbours,&rdquo; Shea told the 15-member council, which met over what Pyongyang said was a test of a new intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile on Monday.
&ldquo;In turn, the DPRK will likely be eager to leverage these improvements to promote weapons sales and military training contracts globally,&rdquo; she said, using the acronym for North Korea's formal name - the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/priyanka-chopra-is-safe-shares-video-of-la-fires-as-hollywood-celebs-flee-8603522">Priyanka Chopra is safe, shares video of LA fires as Hollywood celebs flee</a>
North Korea's UN Ambassador Kim Song justified Monday's missile test as part of a plan to enhance the country's defence capabilities. He accused the United States of double standards.
&ldquo;When the civilian death toll exceeded 45,000 in Gaza, United States embellished Israel's nefarious mass killing atrocity as the right to self-defence... Meanwhile, it takes issue with the legitimate exercise of the right to self-defence of the DPRK,&rdquo; Kim told the Security Council.
Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia repeated Moscow's long-standing accusation that the US, South Korea and Japan provoke North Korea with military exercises. He also rejected as &ldquo;wholly unsubstantiated&rdquo; a US allegation that Russia intends to share satellite and space technology with Pyongyang.
&ldquo;Such statements are the latest example of baseless conjecture which is geared towards smearing bilateral cooperation between the Russian Federation and the friendly nation of the DPRK,&rdquo; said Nebenzia, who also congratulated North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on his birthday on Wednesday.
South Korea's UN Ambassador Joonkook Hwang told the council that North Korea's soldiers were &ldquo;essentially slaves to Kim Jong Un, brainwashed to sacrifice their lives on faraway battlefields to raise money for his regime and secure advanced military technology from Russia.&rdquo;
North Korea has been under UN sanctions since 2006, and the measures have been steadily strengthened over the years with the aim of halting Pyongyang's development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles. Russia has a veto power in the 15-member body, so any further council action is unlikely.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

More than 12,000 North Korean troops are in Russia and last month began fighting against Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region, deputy US Ambassador to the UN Dorothy Camille Shea told the United Nations Security Council.

The United States warned on Wednesday (January 8) that North Korea is “significantly benefiting” from its troops fighting alongside Russia against Ukraine, gaining experience that makes Pyongyang “more capable of waging war against its neighbours.” Russia has forged closer diplomatic and military ties with North Korea since Moscow invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Also read | Man arrested for trying to smuggle machete, knives into US Capitol ahead of Trump visit More than 12,000 North Korean troops are in Russia and last month began fighting against Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region, deputy US Ambassador to the UN Dorothy Camille Shea told the United Nations Security Council. “The DPRK is significantly benefiting from receiving Russian military equipment, technology and experience, rendering it more capable of waging war against its neighbours,” Shea told the 15-member council, which met over what Pyongyang said was a test of a new intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile on Monday. “In turn, the DPRK will likely be eager to leverage these improvements to promote weapons sales and military training contracts globally,” she said, using the acronym for North Korea's formal name - the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Also read | Priyanka Chopra is safe, shares video of LA fires as Hollywood celebs flee North Korea's UN Ambassador Kim Song justified Monday's missile test as part of a plan to enhance the country's defence capabilities. He accused the United States of double standards. “When the civilian death toll exceeded 45,000 in Gaza, United States embellished Israel's nefarious mass killing atrocity as the right to self-defence... Meanwhile, it takes issue with the legitimate exercise of the right to self-defence of the DPRK,” Kim told the Security Council. Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia repeated Moscow's long-standing accusation that the US, South Korea and Japan provoke North Korea with military exercises. He also rejected as “wholly unsubstantiated” a US allegation that Russia intends to share satellite and space technology with Pyongyang. “Such statements are the latest example of baseless conjecture which is geared towards smearing bilateral cooperation between the Russian Federation and the friendly nation of the DPRK,” said Nebenzia, who also congratulated North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on his birthday on Wednesday. South Korea's UN Ambassador Joonkook Hwang told the council that North Korea's soldiers were “essentially slaves to Kim Jong Un, brainwashed to sacrifice their lives on faraway battlefields to raise money for his regime and secure advanced military technology from Russia.” North Korea has been under UN sanctions since 2006, and the measures have been steadily strengthened over the years with the aim of halting Pyongyang's development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles. Russia has a veto power in the 15-member body, so any further council action is unlikely. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

North Korea 'significantly benefiting' from its troops fighting in Russia war: US at UNSC

The Ukrainian military said on Wednesday (Jan 8) that its forces hit a Russian oil depot which was used by Moscow's air force.&nbsp;
In a statement on social media, the Ukrainian general staff said that the military hit the oil depot in Engels in the Saratov region.&nbsp;
"This oil depot provided fuel to the Engels-2 military airfield, where enemy strategic aviation is based," the statement added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-backtracks-on-kursk-new-offensive-claims-russia-claims-captured-key-town-kurakhove-kyiv-says-battle-continues-8600145" rel="dofollow">Ukraine backtracks on Kursk 'new offensive' claims; Russia says captured key town Kurakhove</a>
A report by the news agency AFP said that the attack was the latest in a series of escalating cross border strikes by Moscow and Kyiv targeting energy and military facilities.
<h2>Russia acknowledges attack in Saratov</h2>
Earlier, Russian officials acknowledged in statements that Ukraine attacked in the Saratov region with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The Russian defence ministry said that its air defence systems had downed 32 Ukrainian drones overnight, including 11 over Saratov.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inhuman-terrorist-act-moscow-accuses-ukraine-of-deliberately-killing-russian-journalist-in-drone-strike-8593248" rel="dofollow">'Inhuman terrorist act': Moscow accuses Ukraine of 'deliberately' killing Russian journalist in drone strike</a>
The region's Roman Busargin said that an emergency response team had been dispatched to an industrial facility where a fire had broken out after a Ukrainian drone attack, without elaborating on the type of facility hit. No injuries were reported.&nbsp;
<h2>Russia attacks Ukraine with 64 drones</h2>
This attack on the oil depot comes a day after the Ukrainian military said that Russia launched 64 drones at the country overnight.
Of those&nbsp;drones, Ukraine's air force shot down 41, while 22 "imitator&nbsp;drones" did not reach their targets, the air force added.
(With inputs from agencies)

The Ukrainian military said that oil depot provided fuel to the Engels-2 military airfield, where Russian strategic aviation is based. 

The Ukrainian military said on Wednesday (Jan 8) that its forces hit a Russian oil depot which was used by Moscow's air force. In a statement on social media, the Ukrainian general staff said that the military hit the oil depot in Engels in the Saratov region. "This oil depot provided fuel to the Engels-2 military airfield, where enemy strategic aviation is based," the statement added. Also read | Ukraine backtracks on Kursk 'new offensive' claims; Russia says captured key town Kurakhove A report by the news agency AFP said that the attack was the latest in a series of escalating cross border strikes by Moscow and Kyiv targeting energy and military facilities. Russia acknowledges attack in Saratov Earlier, Russian officials acknowledged in statements that Ukraine attacked in the Saratov region with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The Russian defence ministry said that its air defence systems had downed 32 Ukrainian drones overnight, including 11 over Saratov. Also read | 'Inhuman terrorist act': Moscow accuses Ukraine of 'deliberately' killing Russian journalist in drone strike The region's Roman Busargin said that an emergency response team had been dispatched to an industrial facility where a fire had broken out after a Ukrainian drone attack, without elaborating on the type of facility hit. No injuries were reported. Russia attacks Ukraine with 64 drones This attack on the oil depot comes a day after the Ukrainian military said that Russia launched 64 drones at the country overnight. Of those drones, Ukraine's air force shot down 41, while 22 "imitator drones" did not reach their targets, the air force added. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian military hits Russian oil depot used by Moscow's air force

According to a French army official, several Ukrainian soldiers have abandoned their posts while undergoing training in France. The report from AFP states that members of the 155th Mechanized Brigade, which was intended to be an elite unit for Ukraine and was trained and equipped by France, have deserted. This brigade, named ‘Anne of Kiev’ after the daughter of the medieval prince Yaroslav the Wise who wed French King Henry I, was personally reviewed by French President Emmanuel Macron in northeast France last October.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukrainian troops abandon battleground

Ukraine claimed on Tuesday that its forces had conducted a &ldquo;high-precision&rdquo; strike on a Russian military command post in the Kursk region during &ldquo;combat operations&rdquo;. However, Kyiv later backtracked and said it had launched fresh offensive operations in the area. &nbsp;
The Ukrainian General Staff in a statement on Telegram initially announced &ldquo;new offensive operations,&rdquo; but later edited the post, removing references to a &ldquo;new offensive&rdquo;. Instead, the revised statement framed the strike as part of ongoing &ldquo;combat operations&rdquo; by Ukrainian Defence Forces within the Kursk region.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-says-strong-donald-trumps-unpredictability-key-to-ending-ukraine-russia-war-8594243" aria-label="Zelensky says 'strong' Trump's 'unpredictability' key to ending Ukraine-Russia war">Zelensky says 'strong' Trump's 'unpredictability' key to ending Ukraine-Russia war</a>
&ldquo;This strike is an integral part of the combat operations of units of the Ukrainian Defence Forces, which conduct combat operations,&rdquo; said the updated statement.
<h2>Ukraine's alleged new offensive in Kursk</h2>
Pro-Kremlin military sources have suggested that Ukraine is mounting a powerful new offensive in Kursk, where Kyiv has maintained control of some areas since a surprise incursion in August 2024. Kyiv has not confirmed these claims, though President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday (Jan 6) hinted at operations in the region during his Monday evening address.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inhuman-terrorist-act-moscow-accuses-ukraine-of-deliberately-killing-russian-journalist-in-drone-strike-8593248" aria-label="'Inhuman terrorist act': Moscow accuses Ukraine of 'deliberately' killing Russian journalist in drone strike">'Inhuman terrorist act': Moscow accuses Ukraine of 'deliberately' killing Russian journalist in drone strike</a>
He said that they were &ldquo;maintaining a buffer zone on Russian territory&rdquo; and &ldquo;actively destroying Russian military potential there&rdquo;.
While it remains unclear whether Ukrainian forces have made significant advances, the situation in Kursk could &ldquo;factor in any negotiation that may come about in the coming year&rdquo; under incoming US President-elect Donald Trump, said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday.
Trump, who takes office later this month, has pledged to initiate negotiations to end the nearly three-year war.&nbsp;
<h2>Who controls Kurakhove? Conflicting claims emerge</h2>
Meanwhile, in eastern Ukraine, the battle for Kurakhove continues. Russia claimed on Monday that it had captured the strategic town, an &ldquo;important logistics hub&rdquo; in the Donetsk region, which Moscow has sought to fully annex since 2022.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-vows-retaliation-after-ukraine-fires-us-supplied-atacms-missiles-8591479" aria-label="Russia vows 'retaliation' after Ukraine fires US-supplied ATACMS missiles">Russia vows 'retaliation' after Ukraine fires US-supplied ATACMS missiles</a>
Ukrainian forces, however, disputed the claim and, in a statement on Tuesday, asserted that fighting was still ongoing.
Victor Tregubov, a spokesperson for Ukraine's Khortytsia military unit, said: &ldquo;Ukrainian troops are holding on in the western part of the town, on the western outskirts of the town.&rdquo;
He also accused Russian forces of employing scorched-earth tactics and said that a &ldquo;large part of the town has been destroyed&rdquo;.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-launches-counterattack-in-russias-kursk-region-says-russian-defence-ministry-8594082" aria-label="Ukraine launches counterattack in Russia's Kursk region, says Russian Defence Ministry">Ukraine launches counterattack in Russia's Kursk region, says Russian Defence Ministry</a>
&ldquo;They are actually trying to dismantle the town brick by brick,&rdquo; Tregubov said on national television. He added that Ukrainian troops were &ldquo;inflicting losses on them (Russian troops) so that they do not advance further&rdquo;.
Kurakhove, once home to 18,000 people, holds strategic importance due to its power station and lithium deposits.
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | Conflicting reports emerge from Kurakhove, with Russia claiming capture while Ukraine asserts ongoing battles. Meanwhile, in Kursk, reports of a new Ukrainian offensive emerge. 

Ukraine claimed on Tuesday that its forces had conducted a “high-precision” strike on a Russian military command post in the Kursk region during “combat operations”. However, Kyiv later backtracked and said it had launched fresh offensive operations in the area. The Ukrainian General Staff in a statement on Telegram initially announced “new offensive operations,” but later edited the post, removing references to a “new offensive”. Instead, the revised statement framed the strike as part of ongoing “combat operations” by Ukrainian Defence Forces within the Kursk region. Also read | Zelensky says 'strong' Trump's 'unpredictability' key to ending Ukraine-Russia war “This strike is an integral part of the combat operations of units of the Ukrainian Defence Forces, which conduct combat operations,” said the updated statement. Ukraine's alleged new offensive in Kursk Pro-Kremlin military sources have suggested that Ukraine is mounting a powerful new offensive in Kursk, where Kyiv has maintained control of some areas since a surprise incursion in August 2024. Kyiv has not confirmed these claims, though President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday (Jan 6) hinted at operations in the region during his Monday evening address. Also read | 'Inhuman terrorist act': Moscow accuses Ukraine of 'deliberately' killing Russian journalist in drone strike He said that they were “maintaining a buffer zone on Russian territory” and “actively destroying Russian military potential there”. While it remains unclear whether Ukrainian forces have made significant advances, the situation in Kursk could “factor in any negotiation that may come about in the coming year” under incoming US President-elect Donald Trump, said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday. Trump, who takes office later this month, has pledged to initiate negotiations to end the nearly three-year war. Who controls Kurakhove? Conflicting claims emerge Meanwhile, in eastern Ukraine, the battle for Kurakhove continues. Russia claimed on Monday that it had captured the strategic town, an “important logistics hub” in the Donetsk region, which Moscow has sought to fully annex since 2022. Also read | Russia vows 'retaliation' after Ukraine fires US-supplied ATACMS missiles Ukrainian forces, however, disputed the claim and, in a statement on Tuesday, asserted that fighting was still ongoing. Victor Tregubov, a spokesperson for Ukraine's Khortytsia military unit, said: “Ukrainian troops are holding on in the western part of the town, on the western outskirts of the town.” He also accused Russian forces of employing scorched-earth tactics and said that a “large part of the town has been destroyed”. Also read | Ukraine launches counterattack in Russia's Kursk region, says Russian Defence Ministry “They are actually trying to dismantle the town brick by brick,” Tregubov said on national television. He added that Ukrainian troops were “inflicting losses on them (Russian troops) so that they do not advance further”. Kurakhove, once home to 18,000 people, holds strategic importance due to its power station and lithium deposits. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine backtracks on Kursk 'new offensive' claims; Russia says captured key town Kurakhove

Is Volodymyr Zelensky changing his tone on Donald Trump? There was no love lost between the two till November US election, but now, the Ukrainian president has expressed optimism that the &ldquo;strong&rdquo; incoming American president could force Russia into peace talks, potentially ending the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;
Speaking in an interview with US podcaster Lex Fridman published Sunday (Jan 5), Zelensky highlighted Trump's influence and suggested the Republican leader could be pivotal in securing a negotiated settlement backed by European nations.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-ready-to-release-34-israeli-hostages-but-alive-or-dead-to-be-determined-8594233">Hamas ready to release 34 Israeli hostages, but 'alive or dead' to be determined</a>
<h2>What did Zelensky say?</h2>
The Ukrainian president described Trump as &ldquo;strong&rdquo; and said he believes his qualities could put pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;
Trump, who has vowed to end the conflict within &ldquo;24 hours&rdquo; of taking office on January 20, has so far faced scepticism from Kyiv over whether this would involve territorial concessions. &nbsp;
Zelensky said he and Trump would &ldquo;come to an agreement and... offer strong security guarantees, together with Europe, and then we can talk to the Russians&rdquo;.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-launches-counterattack-in-russias-kursk-region-says-russian-defence-ministry-8594082" aria-label="Ukraine launches counterattack in Russia's Kursk region, says Russian Defence Ministry">Ukraine launches counterattack in Russia's Kursk region, says Russian Defence Ministry</a>
Despite Trump's previous criticism of Zelensky- he mocked the Ukrainian leader as "the greatest salesman&rdquo; - and US military aid to Ukraine as opposed to his controversial praise for Putin, Zelensky expressed faith in Trump's ability to exert pressure on Russia.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I think that president Trump not only has will, he has all these possibilities, and it's not just talk,&rdquo; Zelensky said.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I really count on him, and I think that our people really count on him, so he has enough power to pressure him, to pressure Putin,&rdquo; he added.
European leaders, Zelensky noted, are closely watching Trump&rsquo;s approach.
&ldquo;When I talk about something with Donald Trump &mdash; whether we meet in person or we just have a call &mdash; all the European leaders always ask, 'how was it?' This shows the influence of Donald Trump, and this has never happened before with an American president,&rdquo; he said.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inhuman-terrorist-act-moscow-accuses-ukraine-of-deliberately-killing-russian-journalist-in-drone-strike-8593248" aria-label="'Inhuman terrorist act': Moscow accuses Ukraine of 'deliberately' killing Russian journalist in drone strike">'Inhuman terrorist act': Moscow accuses Ukraine of 'deliberately' killing Russian journalist in drone strike</a>
&ldquo;This also gives you confidence that he can stop this war,&rdquo; remarked the president of war-torn Ukraine.
Previously, in an interview with Ukrainian media, Zelensky said that Trump's &ldquo;unpredictability&rdquo; could help end the war with Russia.
<h2>On US elections and NATO</h2>
Zelensky warned against any weakening of US commitment to NATO, which Trump has repeatedly hinted at.
A US withdrawal from the alliance would signify &ldquo;the death of NATO,&rdquo; Zelensky cautioned, adding that Putin's goals are a &ldquo;weak NATO,&rdquo; an &ldquo;Ukraine which cannot survive on the battlefield,&rdquo; and to &ldquo;prevent&rdquo; him &ldquo;from building a strong relationship with Trump.&rdquo;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-vows-retaliation-after-ukraine-fires-us-supplied-atacms-missiles-8591479" aria-label="Russia vows 'retaliation' after Ukraine fires US-supplied ATACMS missiles">Russia vows 'retaliation' after Ukraine fires US-supplied ATACMS missiles</a>
Weighing in on the US elections, Zelensky said Trump defeated Democrat candidate Kamala Harris because he &ldquo;was much more strong&rdquo; and showed strength &ldquo;intellectually and physically&rdquo;.
Asked if he would attend Trump's inauguration, Zelensky said he would only do so if the president-elect invited him &ldquo;personally. &ldquo;If he invites me, I will come,&rdquo; he remarked. &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | Zelensky expressed confidence in Trump's ability to exert pressure on Putin, viewing his influence as a potential game-changer in securing a peace agreement.

Is Volodymyr Zelensky changing his tone on Donald Trump? There was no love lost between the two till November US election, but now, the Ukrainian president has expressed optimism that the “strong” incoming American president could force Russia into peace talks, potentially ending the war in Ukraine. Speaking in an interview with US podcaster Lex Fridman published Sunday (Jan 5), Zelensky highlighted Trump's influence and suggested the Republican leader could be pivotal in securing a negotiated settlement backed by European nations. Also read | Hamas ready to release 34 Israeli hostages, but 'alive or dead' to be determined What did Zelensky say? The Ukrainian president described Trump as “strong” and said he believes his qualities could put pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump, who has vowed to end the conflict within “24 hours” of taking office on January 20, has so far faced scepticism from Kyiv over whether this would involve territorial concessions. Zelensky said he and Trump would “come to an agreement and... offer strong security guarantees, together with Europe, and then we can talk to the Russians”. Also read | Ukraine launches counterattack in Russia's Kursk region, says Russian Defence Ministry Despite Trump's previous criticism of Zelensky- he mocked the Ukrainian leader as "the greatest salesman” - and US military aid to Ukraine as opposed to his controversial praise for Putin, Zelensky expressed faith in Trump's ability to exert pressure on Russia. “I think that president Trump not only has will, he has all these possibilities, and it's not just talk,” Zelensky said. “I really count on him, and I think that our people really count on him, so he has enough power to pressure him, to pressure Putin,” he added. European leaders, Zelensky noted, are closely watching Trump’s approach. “When I talk about something with Donald Trump — whether we meet in person or we just have a call — all the European leaders always ask, 'how was it?' This shows the influence of Donald Trump, and this has never happened before with an American president,” he said. Also read | 'Inhuman terrorist act': Moscow accuses Ukraine of 'deliberately' killing Russian journalist in drone strike “This also gives you confidence that he can stop this war,” remarked the president of war-torn Ukraine. Previously, in an interview with Ukrainian media, Zelensky said that Trump's “unpredictability” could help end the war with Russia. On US elections and NATO Zelensky warned against any weakening of US commitment to NATO, which Trump has repeatedly hinted at. A US withdrawal from the alliance would signify “the death of NATO,” Zelensky cautioned, adding that Putin's goals are a “weak NATO,” an “Ukraine which cannot survive on the battlefield,” and to “prevent” him “from building a strong relationship with Trump.” Also read | Russia vows 'retaliation' after Ukraine fires US-supplied ATACMS missiles Weighing in on the US elections, Zelensky said Trump defeated Democrat candidate Kamala Harris because he “was much more strong” and showed strength “intellectually and physically”. Asked if he would attend Trump's inauguration, Zelensky said he would only do so if the president-elect invited him “personally. “If he invites me, I will come,” he remarked. (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky says 'strong' Trump's 'unpredictability' key to ending Ukraine-Russia war