<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday ordered the security at his country's border with Belarus to be tightened after the arrival of fighters from the mercenary group Wagner in the neighbouring nation.</p>

<p>The mercenary group's fighters and its chief were offered an exile in Belarus after their mutiny against Russian military leadership&nbsp;was aborted last week. As a part of a deal, President Vladimir Putin gave the fighters a choice of signing contracts with the Russian defence ministry, returning to civilian life or going into exile in Belarus.</p>

<p>Zelensky, on Friday, said that he had been informed of the situation in Belarus by the Ukrainian intelligence service GUR, foreign intelligence services and border guards.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"By the decision of the Stavka (chief of staff), Commander-in-Chief (Valery) Zaluzhny and General (Sergey) Nayev were instructed to strengthen the northern direction in order to guarantee peace. There are appropriate deadlines," the Ukraine leader said in a video posted on Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus': Putin</strong></h2>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the nation late on Monday, said that he would honour his promise to allow Wagner fighters to relocate to Belarus, if they wanted, or to sign a contract with the Defence Ministry or simply return to their families.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-lukashenko-emerged-as-a-key-player-to-resolve-wagner-situation-608913">Explained | How Lukashenko emerged as key player to resolve Wagner situation</a></p>

<p>"I thank those soldiers and commanders of the Wagner Group who made the only right decision - they did not turn to fratricidal bloodshed, they stopped at the last line. Today, you have the opportunity to continue serving Russia by entering into a contract with the Ministry of Defence or other law enforcement agencies or to return to your family and friends. Whoever wants to, can go to Belarus. The promise I made will be fulfilled."</p>

<p>He then thanked the Wagner mercenary fighters and commanders who had stood down to avoid bloodshed.</p>

<p>“We knew and we know that the vast majority of the fighters and commanders of the Wagner Group are also Russian patriots, devoted to their people and state. They proved it with their courage on the battlefield, liberating the Donbas and Novorossiya. They tried to use them in the dark against their brothers-in-arms, with whom they fought together for the sake of the country and its future. Therefore, from the very beginning of the events, on my direct instructions, steps were taken to avoid a lot of bloodshed."</p>

<p>Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko offered Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin refuge after he aborted the armed rebellion against Moscow a week ago.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday ordered the security at his country's border with Belarus to be tightened after the arrival of fighters from the mercenary group Wagner in the neighbouring nation.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday ordered the security at his country's border with Belarus to be tightened after the arrival of fighters from the mercenary group Wagner in the neighbouring nation. The mercenary group's fighters and its chief were offered an exile in Belarus after their mutiny against Russian military leadership was aborted last week. As a part of a deal, President Vladimir Putin gave the fighters a choice of signing contracts with the Russian defence ministry, returning to civilian life or going into exile in Belarus. Zelensky, on Friday, said that he had been informed of the situation in Belarus by the Ukrainian intelligence service GUR, foreign intelligence services and border guards. "By the decision of the Stavka (chief of staff), Commander-in-Chief (Valery) Zaluzhny and General (Sergey) Nayev were instructed to strengthen the northern direction in order to guarantee peace. There are appropriate deadlines," the Ukraine leader said in a video posted on Telegram. Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus': Putin Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the nation late on Monday, said that he would honour his promise to allow Wagner fighters to relocate to Belarus, if they wanted, or to sign a contract with the Defence Ministry or simply return to their families. Also read: Explained | How Lukashenko emerged as key player to resolve Wagner situation "I thank those soldiers and commanders of the Wagner Group who made the only right decision - they did not turn to fratricidal bloodshed, they stopped at the last line. Today, you have the opportunity to continue serving Russia by entering into a contract with the Ministry of Defence or other law enforcement agencies or to return to your family and friends. Whoever wants to, can go to Belarus. The promise I made will be fulfilled." He then thanked the Wagner mercenary fighters and commanders who had stood down to avoid bloodshed. “We knew and we know that the vast majority of the fighters and commanders of the Wagner Group are also Russian patriots, devoted to their people and state. They proved it with their courage on the battlefield, liberating the Donbas and Novorossiya. They tried to use them in the dark against their brothers-in-arms, with whom they fought together for the sake of the country and its future. Therefore, from the very beginning of the events, on my direct instructions, steps were taken to avoid a lot of bloodshed." Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko offered Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin refuge after he aborted the armed rebellion against Moscow a week ago. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Volodymyr Zelensky orders tighter security on Ukraine-Belarus border after arrival of Wagner fighters

<p>Russian rocket strikes in Ukraine killed at least 11 people and&nbsp;injured 56&nbsp;on Tuesday, said the country's interior minister. Among the dead at the cafe which was hit in Kramatorsk, a town located in eastern Ukraine, include three children, two of whom were twin sisters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As of 07:00 (0400 GMT) on June 28, the bodies of eight dead people (including three children, two of them born in 2008 and 2011) were unblocked from under the rubble of the destroyed cafe building," the State Emergency Service of Ukraine said on Telegram.</p>

<p>The educational department of Kramatorsk city council said in a Telegram post,&nbsp;"Two sisters, both age 14, died in the missile&nbsp;attack."&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs said that the attack in Kramatorsk wounded another 56 people.</p>

<p>The rocket strikes hit a restaurant in the town of Kramatorsk, one of the largest still under Ukrainian control in the east, and is a popular eatery that is frequented by both journalists and soldiers.</p>

<p>As per Ukrainian police, Russia fired two S-300 surface-to-air missiles at the city.&nbsp;The S-300 is a surface-to-air missile that cannot hit targets on the ground accurately, but have&nbsp; been repurposed it for loosely targeted strikes on cities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There were a lot of people in there -- there are children under the rubble," said Yevgen, who had been dining with two friends at the Ria Pizza restaurant.</p>

<p>"We were just about to leave," he said, but one of his friends was not "under the rubble", he told AFP after the blast.</p>

<p>As per AFP reports, a crowd quickly gathered at the site of the strike where fires broke out after the strikes as soldiers and rescue workers searched for other victims.</p>

<p>President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;condemned the missile strikes saying that S-300 missiles were used to carry out the deadly attacks.</p>

<p>"Exactly on the anniversary of the Russian terrorists' attack on Kremenchuk, on a shopping mall, where&nbsp;22 people were killed, Russian savages again fired missiles at the Kremenchuk district," he said.</p>

<p>"Today, Russian terrorists also brutally shelled Kramatorsk... Unfortunately, there are killed and wounded. Assistance is being provided. The rubble is being cleared."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-plane-belonging-to-wagner-chief-reportedly-lands-in-belarus-609259">Russia-Ukraine war: Lukashenko says Wagner chief Prigozhin in Belarus</a></p>

<p>According to Donetsk governor Pavlo Kyrylenko, two Russian rockets hit the city of 150,000 people, one of the largest still under Ukrainian control in the country's besieged east.</p>

<p>"There was a good crowd" at the restaurant when the missile hit, one of its cooks, a 32-year-old Ruslan, told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I had just arrived: I was standing there, and then I was buried," he said. "I was lucky."</p>

<p>Natalia, in tears, explained that her half-brother Nikita, 23, was inside near the pizza oven.</p>

<p>"They can't get him out, he was covered&nbsp;by debris," she said.</p>

<p>The strike also caused destruction and damaged several nearby buildings which have often been targeted by Russian forces since the invasion launched by Russia in February 2022.</p>

<p>"People told me they heard a plane flying, there was a hissing and then an explosion," a 19-year-old Ukrainian soldier who gave his war name as "Ghost", and was nearby when the strike occurred, told AFP.</p>

<p>He quickly entered the restaurant to help rescue workers. "A girl was trapped, injured. They haven't yet been able to get her out," he said.<br />
<br />
Kramatorsk is located in Donetsk, one of the four Ukrainian provinces that Russia claimed to annex last September but does not fully control.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian rocket strikes in Ukraine killed at least 11 people and injured 56 on Tuesday, said the country's interior minister. Among the dead at the cafe which was hit in Kramatorsk, a town located in eastern Ukraine, include three children, two of whom were twin sisters.

Russian rocket strikes in Ukraine killed at least 11 people and injured 56 on Tuesday, said the country's interior minister. Among the dead at the cafe which was hit in Kramatorsk, a town located in eastern Ukraine, include three children, two of whom were twin sisters. "As of 07:00 (0400 GMT) on June 28, the bodies of eight dead people (including three children, two of them born in 2008 and 2011) were unblocked from under the rubble of the destroyed cafe building," the State Emergency Service of Ukraine said on Telegram. The educational department of Kramatorsk city council said in a Telegram post, "Two sisters, both age 14, died in the missile attack." The Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs said that the attack in Kramatorsk wounded another 56 people. The rocket strikes hit a restaurant in the town of Kramatorsk, one of the largest still under Ukrainian control in the east, and is a popular eatery that is frequented by both journalists and soldiers. As per Ukrainian police, Russia fired two S-300 surface-to-air missiles at the city. The S-300 is a surface-to-air missile that cannot hit targets on the ground accurately, but have been repurposed it for loosely targeted strikes on cities. "There were a lot of people in there -- there are children under the rubble," said Yevgen, who had been dining with two friends at the Ria Pizza restaurant. "We were just about to leave," he said, but one of his friends was not "under the rubble", he told AFP after the blast. As per AFP reports, a crowd quickly gathered at the site of the strike where fires broke out after the strikes as soldiers and rescue workers searched for other victims. President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the missile strikes saying that S-300 missiles were used to carry out the deadly attacks. "Exactly on the anniversary of the Russian terrorists' attack on Kremenchuk, on a shopping mall, where 22 people were killed, Russian savages again fired missiles at the Kremenchuk district," he said. "Today, Russian terrorists also brutally shelled Kramatorsk... Unfortunately, there are killed and wounded. Assistance is being provided. The rubble is being cleared." Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Lukashenko says Wagner chief Prigozhin in Belarus According to Donetsk governor Pavlo Kyrylenko, two Russian rockets hit the city of 150,000 people, one of the largest still under Ukrainian control in the country's besieged east. "There was a good crowd" at the restaurant when the missile hit, one of its cooks, a 32-year-old Ruslan, told AFP. "I had just arrived: I was standing there, and then I was buried," he said. "I was lucky." Natalia, in tears, explained that her half-brother Nikita, 23, was inside near the pizza oven. "They can't get him out, he was covered by debris," she said. The strike also caused destruction and damaged several nearby buildings which have often been targeted by Russian forces since the invasion launched by Russia in February 2022. "People told me they heard a plane flying, there was a hissing and then an explosion," a 19-year-old Ukrainian soldier who gave his war name as "Ghost", and was nearby when the strike occurred, told AFP. He quickly entered the restaurant to help rescue workers. "A girl was trapped, injured. They haven't yet been able to get her out," he said. Kramatorsk is located in Donetsk, one of the four Ukrainian provinces that Russia claimed to annex last September but does not fully control. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian strikes at restaurant in Ukraine kill 11, including three kids, injure 56

<p>Solid majorities of Americans support providing weaponry to Ukraine to defend itself against Russia and believe that such aid demonstrates to China and other US&nbsp;rivals a will to protect US&nbsp;interests and allies, according to a Reuters/Ipsos survey.</p>

<p>The two-day poll that was concluded on Tuesday charted a sharp rise in backing for arming Ukraine, with 65% of the respondents approving of the shipments compared with 46% in a May poll.</p>

<p>Eighty-one per cent of Democrats, 56% of Republicans and 57% of independents favour supplying U.S. weapons to Ukraine,&nbsp;according to the latest poll.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russian strike on restaurant in Ukraine leaves 42 injured, child among those dead</strong></p>

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<p>The survey was conducted just days after Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the private Wagner mercenary company, launched and then called off a mutiny over what he charged was the Russian defence ministry's mishandling of the war in Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/leaked-intel-foils-wagners-attempt-to-capture-russias-military-leadership-report-609743">Leaked intel foils Wagner's attempt to capture Russia's military leadership: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The findings appeared to provide firmer backing for US&nbsp;President Joe Biden's policy of doing "whatever it takes" to assist Ukraine in recapturing territory that Russia seized in an initial assault in 2014 and its full-scale invasion 16 months ago.</p>

<p>"This definitely reinforces Biden's decision to be all-in on this," said William Taylor, a former US&nbsp;ambassador to Ukraine now with the U.S. Institute of Peace.</p>

<p>"The Republican leadership of the House and Senate will also take heart from this," Taylor said. Some right-wing Republican lawmakers have opposed continuing US&nbsp;military support for Ukraine.</p>

<p>The Biden administration has approved 41 weapons packages for Ukraine totaling more than $40 billion since Russian President Vladimir Putin launched what he calls "a special military operation" in February 2022.</p>

<p>The online Reuters/Ipsos poll was conducted nationwide, collecting responses from 1,004 adults, including 400 Democrats and 383 Republicans. It had a credibility interval, a measure of precision, of about 4 percentage points in either direction.</p>

<p>The poll found that 76% of Americans believe that providing aid to Ukraine demonstrates to China and other rivals that the United States has "the will and capability to protect our interests, our allies and ourselves."</p>

<p>In other findings, the survey said large majorities of Americans - 67% and 73% - are more likely to support a candidate in next year's U.S. presidential election who will continue military aid to Ukraine and one who backs the NATO alliance.</p>

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Solid majorities of Americans support providing weaponry to Ukraine to defend itself against Russia and believe that such aid demonstrates to China and other US rivals a will to protect US interests and allies, according to a Reuters/Ipsos survey.

Solid majorities of Americans support providing weaponry to Ukraine to defend itself against Russia and believe that such aid demonstrates to China and other US rivals a will to protect US interests and allies, according to a Reuters/Ipsos survey. The two-day poll that was concluded on Tuesday charted a sharp rise in backing for arming Ukraine, with 65% of the respondents approving of the shipments compared with 46% in a May poll. Eighty-one per cent of Democrats, 56% of Republicans and 57% of independents favour supplying U.S. weapons to Ukraine, according to the latest poll. Watch | Russian strike on restaurant in Ukraine leaves 42 injured, child among those dead × The survey was conducted just days after Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the private Wagner mercenary company, launched and then called off a mutiny over what he charged was the Russian defence ministry's mishandling of the war in Ukraine. Also Read | Leaked intel foils Wagner's attempt to capture Russia's military leadership: Report The findings appeared to provide firmer backing for US President Joe Biden's policy of doing "whatever it takes" to assist Ukraine in recapturing territory that Russia seized in an initial assault in 2014 and its full-scale invasion 16 months ago. "This definitely reinforces Biden's decision to be all-in on this," said William Taylor, a former US ambassador to Ukraine now with the U.S. Institute of Peace. "The Republican leadership of the House and Senate will also take heart from this," Taylor said. Some right-wing Republican lawmakers have opposed continuing US military support for Ukraine. The Biden administration has approved 41 weapons packages for Ukraine totaling more than $40 billion since Russian President Vladimir Putin launched what he calls "a special military operation" in February 2022. The online Reuters/Ipsos poll was conducted nationwide, collecting responses from 1,004 adults, including 400 Democrats and 383 Republicans. It had a credibility interval, a measure of precision, of about 4 percentage points in either direction. The poll found that 76% of Americans believe that providing aid to Ukraine demonstrates to China and other rivals that the United States has "the will and capability to protect our interests, our allies and ourselves." In other findings, the survey said large majorities of Americans - 67% and 73% - are more likely to support a candidate in next year's U.S. presidential election who will continue military aid to Ukraine and one who backs the NATO alliance. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Most Americans support US arming Ukraine -Reuters/Ipsos

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<p>Nepali Gurkhas are joining the Russian mercenary group Wagner eyeing Russian citizenship. According to a report by the EurAsian Times on Sunday (June 25), some of the fighters have retired from the Nepali Army. The report said that Nepal has been caught off guard as it does not have any bilateral pacts with Russia, and the Nepalese embassy in Moscow claimed that youngsters are going in their personal capacity. More than a dozen Nepali youths are getting trained in handling weapons and fighting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On May 16 this year, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree, simplifying the process of obtaining Russian citizenship for foreigners who joined the Russian military in the ongoing Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to the EurAsian Times, strategic analyst Major General Binoj Basnyat (retired) from the Nepal Army said, "This is a concerning situation. The Nepal government is not able to do anything about it as they have gone in an individual capacity."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-vladimir-putin-wanted-to-kill-wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-but-stopped-heres-how-609686">Vladimir Putin wanted to kill Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin but stopped. Here's what happened</a></strong></p>

<p>Basnyat said that if Nepalese citizens are part of the military of a sovereign nation, it has to be part of the government's foreign policy, or there has to be a Memorandum of Understanding or a treaty with the other country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"No such instruments are in place in this case,” the strategic analyst added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>An offer hard to resist</strong></h2>

<p>The May 16 decree signed by Putin is hard for Nepali youngsters to resist keeping in mind the unemployment rate in the country. Basnyat said that after finishing their studies, a large number of Nepali youngsters are coming out for employment, but they have not been absorbed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The number of youth looking to leave for other countries in search of jobs and opportunities has shot up,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The major employment opportunities in Nepal are in the informal sector with poor working conditions and wages, the report said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Videos show Nepalese youths joining Russian Army</strong></h2>

<p>For the past few weeks, videos on social media platforms including TikTok and Telegram showed Nepali youngsters joining the Russian Army. There was also news of Nepalese citizens joining the French Legion, but entering Russia is easier than entering Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, the publication reported that Nepalese Gurkhas won't be joining the Indian Army this year as Kathmandu did not allow the recruitment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A youth from Nepal's Koshi, who studied at a Russian university, said he had two options after completing his education - either go back to Nepal unemployed or join the Russian army.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The person said that even during the (army) training period, the salary was about 50,000 Nepalese Rupees along with insurance. "After one year, citizenship is also available. If I don’t die in one year, I will live here,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

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Nepali Gurkhas are joining the Russian mercenary group Wagner eyeing Russian citizenship. According to a report by the EurAsian Times on Sunday (June 25), some of the fighters have retired from the Nepali Army.

Nepali Gurkhas are joining the Russian mercenary group Wagner eyeing Russian citizenship. According to a report by the EurAsian Times on Sunday (June 25), some of the fighters have retired from the Nepali Army. The report said that Nepal has been caught off guard as it does not have any bilateral pacts with Russia, and the Nepalese embassy in Moscow claimed that youngsters are going in their personal capacity. More than a dozen Nepali youths are getting trained in handling weapons and fighting. On May 16 this year, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree, simplifying the process of obtaining Russian citizenship for foreigners who joined the Russian military in the ongoing Ukraine war. Speaking to the EurAsian Times, strategic analyst Major General Binoj Basnyat (retired) from the Nepal Army said, "This is a concerning situation. The Nepal government is not able to do anything about it as they have gone in an individual capacity." Also read | Vladimir Putin wanted to kill Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin but stopped. Here's what happened Basnyat said that if Nepalese citizens are part of the military of a sovereign nation, it has to be part of the government's foreign policy, or there has to be a Memorandum of Understanding or a treaty with the other country. "No such instruments are in place in this case,” the strategic analyst added. An offer hard to resist The May 16 decree signed by Putin is hard for Nepali youngsters to resist keeping in mind the unemployment rate in the country. Basnyat said that after finishing their studies, a large number of Nepali youngsters are coming out for employment, but they have not been absorbed. "The number of youth looking to leave for other countries in search of jobs and opportunities has shot up,” he added. The major employment opportunities in Nepal are in the informal sector with poor working conditions and wages, the report said. Videos show Nepalese youths joining Russian Army For the past few weeks, videos on social media platforms including TikTok and Telegram showed Nepali youngsters joining the Russian Army. There was also news of Nepalese citizens joining the French Legion, but entering Russia is easier than entering Europe. Earlier, the publication reported that Nepalese Gurkhas won't be joining the Indian Army this year as Kathmandu did not allow the recruitment. A youth from Nepal's Koshi, who studied at a Russian university, said he had two options after completing his education - either go back to Nepal unemployed or join the Russian army. The person said that even during the (army) training period, the salary was about 50,000 Nepalese Rupees along with insurance. "After one year, citizenship is also available. If I don’t die in one year, I will live here,” he 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.

Nepali Gurkhas joining Wagner group while eyeing Russian citizenship: Report

<p>Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Tuesday spilled the beans on the hectic parleys that took place to defuse tensions between Russian President Vladimir Putin and the rebelling Wagner Group mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin.</p>

<p>Lukashenko&nbsp;played a key role in halting the short-lived coup attempt in exchange for a deal that included providing asylum to Prigozhin.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, Russia's FSB security service dropped charges against the participants in the insurrection as part of a deal negotiated by Lukashenko and his long-term ally Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lukashenko said Prigozhin had arrived in Belarus and was welcome to stay "for some time".&nbsp;</p>

<p>“At 10.10, he (Putin) called and informed me in detail about the situation that is happening in Russia. He asked several questions, including how to counteract this, and I realised that the situation is complicated,” Lukashenko said at a military awards ceremony in Minsk.</p>

<p>He then said that Putin wanted to eliminate Prigozhin, but decided not to “rush” after Lukashenko intervened.</p>

<p>Lukashenko said he told the Wagner chief that he would be “squashed like a bug” if he proceeds to march towards Moscow and warned that the Kremlin would never fulfil his demand of ousting Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu and the Chief of The General Staff, General Valery Gerasimov.</p>

<p>The president further revealed that Putin was furious that the Wagner chief wouldn't take his calls during the brief uprising.</p>

<h2><strong>Behind the scenes </strong></h2>

<p>Detailing his back-to-back calls with Putin and Prigozhin on Saturday, Lukashenko told Prigozhin that it would be against his own interests if he thinks that he would get justice for the alleged wrongdoings against Wagner.</p>

<p>“Our first round of talks lasted about 30 minutes and we talked mostly in swear words. Almost only swear words," Lukashenko said.</p>

<p>"Later, it occurred to me that there were 10&nbsp;times more swear words than normal words."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-strikes-on-ukraine-restaurant-kills-at-least-injures-22-people-609413">Russian strikes at eatery in Ukraine kill 9, including three kids, injure 56</a></p>

<p>Lukashenko told Prigozhin that "no one will ever hand over Shoigu, Gerasimov, or anyone else, for that matter. Especially in this situation. You know Putin as well as I do."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/firing-season-continues-google-lays-off-employees-at-its-mapping-app-waze-609587">Firing season continues: Google lays off employees at its mapping app Waze</a></p>

<p>“For a long time, I was trying to convince him. And in the end, I said, ‘You know, you can do whatever you want. But don't be offended by me. Our brigade is ready for transfer to Moscow'," Lukashenko told state media.</p>

<p>Lukashenko said that he had detailed negotiations with Putin, who was reluctant to let go Prigozhin unpunished.</p>

<p>“The most dangerous thing, as I understand it, is not what the situation was, but how it could develop and its consequences,” Lukashenko said, according to Belarussian state media.</p>

<p>“I also realised there was a harsh decision taken — to destroy (Prigozhin). I suggested Putin not to hurry. Let’s talk with <a name="_Hlk138863381">Prigozhin</a>, with his commanders.”</p>

<p>Lukashenko said Putin told him: “Listen, Alex, it’s useless. (Prigozhin) doesn’t even pick up the phone, he doesn’t want to talk to anyone.”</p>

<p>But despite that Lukashenko said he was able to get hold of the Wagner boss and bring him to senses.</p>

<h2><strong>Kremlin’s response</strong></h2>

<p>Putin has so far been silent on the backchannel talks between his long-time ally Lukashenko and Prigozhin.</p>

<p>But in a statement, the Kremlin credited Lukashenko for helping to de-escalate the tense situation, though they did not corroborate the Belarus leader’s account of events.</p>

<p>Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Lukashenko was able to draw on a personal relationship&nbsp;with Prigozhin to reach the deal, which would also see Wagner troops and equipment absorbed by the Russian military.</p>

<p>The Defence Ministry didn't release any information about casualties, but media reports said at least a dozen airmen were killed.</p>

<p>When asked why the rebels were allowed to advance to roughly 200 kilometres away from Moscow without facing any resistance, National Guard chief Viktor Zolotov said authorities tried to assemble a strong force capable of stopping the onslaught.</p>

<p>"We concentrated our forces in one fist closer to Moscow," he told reporters. "If we spread them thin, they would have come like a knife through butter."</p>

<p>General Zolotov also said the National Guard had lacked battle tanks and other heavy weapons, but&nbsp;would now get them.</p>

<h2><strong>Belarus wouldn’t mind a Wagner-like unit</strong></h2>

<p>Lukashenko further said that his defence minister Viktor Khrennikov was very much interested in having a Wagner-like unit in the Belarusian army. He said that he has instructed Khrennikov to negotiate with Prigozhin on the matter.</p>

<p>When asked where is Prigozhin and his troops are staying, the Belrusian leader said that the mercenary leader and some of his troops are staying at one of the abandoned military bases.</p>

<p>They will be staying at their own expense, Lukashenko said.</p>

<h2>What will happen of Wagner troops?</h2>

<p>The Russian Defence Ministry said that preparations are underway for Wagner's troops, who numbered 25,000, to hand over their heavy weapons to the Russian military.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prigozhin had said those moves were being taken ahead of a July 1 deadline for his fighters to sign contracts to serve under the Russian military's command.</p>

<p>Prigozhin issued no public statements on Tuesday.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Tuesday spilled the beans on the hectic parleys that took place to defuse tensions between Russian President Vladimir Putin and the rebelling Wagner Group mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Tuesday spilled the beans on the hectic parleys that took place to defuse tensions between Russian President Vladimir Putin and the rebelling Wagner Group mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin. Lukashenko played a key role in halting the short-lived coup attempt in exchange for a deal that included providing asylum to Prigozhin. On Tuesday, Russia's FSB security service dropped charges against the participants in the insurrection as part of a deal negotiated by Lukashenko and his long-term ally Putin. Lukashenko said Prigozhin had arrived in Belarus and was welcome to stay "for some time". “At 10.10, he (Putin) called and informed me in detail about the situation that is happening in Russia. He asked several questions, including how to counteract this, and I realised that the situation is complicated,” Lukashenko said at a military awards ceremony in Minsk. He then said that Putin wanted to eliminate Prigozhin, but decided not to “rush” after Lukashenko intervened. Lukashenko said he told the Wagner chief that he would be “squashed like a bug” if he proceeds to march towards Moscow and warned that the Kremlin would never fulfil his demand of ousting Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu and the Chief of The General Staff, General Valery Gerasimov. The president further revealed that Putin was furious that the Wagner chief wouldn't take his calls during the brief uprising. Behind the scenes Detailing his back-to-back calls with Putin and Prigozhin on Saturday, Lukashenko told Prigozhin that it would be against his own interests if he thinks that he would get justice for the alleged wrongdoings against Wagner. “Our first round of talks lasted about 30 minutes and we talked mostly in swear words. Almost only swear words," Lukashenko said. "Later, it occurred to me that there were 10 times more swear words than normal words." Also read | Russian strikes at eatery in Ukraine kill 9, including three kids, injure 56 Lukashenko told Prigozhin that "no one will ever hand over Shoigu, Gerasimov, or anyone else, for that matter. Especially in this situation. You know Putin as well as I do." Also read | Firing season continues: Google lays off employees at its mapping app Waze “For a long time, I was trying to convince him. And in the end, I said, ‘You know, you can do whatever you want. But don't be offended by me. Our brigade is ready for transfer to Moscow'," Lukashenko told state media. Lukashenko said that he had detailed negotiations with Putin, who was reluctant to let go Prigozhin unpunished. “The most dangerous thing, as I understand it, is not what the situation was, but how it could develop and its consequences,” Lukashenko said, according to Belarussian state media. “I also realised there was a harsh decision taken — to destroy (Prigozhin). I suggested Putin not to hurry. Let’s talk with Prigozhin, with his commanders.” Lukashenko said Putin told him: “Listen, Alex, it’s useless. (Prigozhin) doesn’t even pick up the phone, he doesn’t want to talk to anyone.” But despite that Lukashenko said he was able to get hold of the Wagner boss and bring him to senses. Kremlin’s response Putin has so far been silent on the backchannel talks between his long-time ally Lukashenko and Prigozhin. But in a statement, the Kremlin credited Lukashenko for helping to de-escalate the tense situation, though they did not corroborate the Belarus leader’s account of events. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Lukashenko was able to draw on a personal relationship with Prigozhin to reach the deal, which would also see Wagner troops and equipment absorbed by the Russian military. The Defence Ministry didn't release any information about casualties, but media reports said at least a dozen airmen were killed. When asked why the rebels were allowed to advance to roughly 200 kilometres away from Moscow without facing any resistance, National Guard chief Viktor Zolotov said authorities tried to assemble a strong force capable of stopping the onslaught. "We concentrated our forces in one fist closer to Moscow," he told reporters. "If we spread them thin, they would have come like a knife through butter." General Zolotov also said the National Guard had lacked battle tanks and other heavy weapons, but would now get them. Belarus wouldn’t mind a Wagner-like unit Lukashenko further said that his defence minister Viktor Khrennikov was very much interested in having a Wagner-like unit in the Belarusian army. He said that he has instructed Khrennikov to negotiate with Prigozhin on the matter. When asked where is Prigozhin and his troops are staying, the Belrusian leader said that the mercenary leader and some of his troops are staying at one of the abandoned military bases. They will be staying at their own expense, Lukashenko said. What will happen of Wagner troops? The Russian Defence Ministry said that preparations are underway for Wagner's troops, who numbered 25,000, to hand over their heavy weapons to the Russian military. Prigozhin had said those moves were being taken ahead of a July 1 deadline for his fighters to sign contracts to serve under the Russian military's command. Prigozhin issued no public statements on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | Putin wanted to kill Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, but stopped. Here's what happened

<p>Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claimed that he had requested Russian President Vladimir Putin not to "wipe out" mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin amid the armed mutiny of Wagner group that pushed Russia to the brink of civil war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Initially, Putin had promised to crush the mutiny which it compared to the wartime turmoil that had led to the revolution of 1917 followed by civil war, however, hours later the Wagner chief finalised a deal which allowed him along with some of his fighters to go to Belarus.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, Wagner&nbsp;chief flew to Belarus from Russia. Lukashenko, while talking about the conversation he had with Putin on Saturday, made use of the Russian criminal slang phrase used for killing someone which is similar to the English phrase to "wipe out".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-lukashenko-emerged-as-a-key-player-to-resolve-wagner-situation-608913">Explained | How Lukashenko emerged as key player to resolve Wagner situation</a></p>

<p>"I also understood: a brutal decision had been made (and it was the undertone of Putin's address) to wipe out&nbsp;the mutineers," said Lukashenko in a meeting of his army officials as well as journalists on Tuesday, as reported by the Belarusian state media.</p>

<p>"I suggested to Putin not to rush. 'Come on,' I said, 'Let's talk with Prigozhin, with his commanders.' To which he told me: 'Listen, Sasha, it's useless. He doesn't even pick up the phone, he doesn’t want to talk to anyone'," he stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The same Russian verb was used by Putin in 1999 about Chechen militants, as he vowed to "wipe out them out in the shithouse". The remarks made by Putin became a widely quoted emblem of the Russian leader's severe persona.</p>

<h2><strong>'Experience of Wagner troops beneficial'</strong></h2>

<p>No immediate comment was made by Kremlin on the remarks of Lukashenko. The statements gave a rare insight into the conversations that took place inside the Kremlin as Russia, as per its own account of Putin, teetered towards a kind of turmoil which the country had not seen for decades.</p>

<p>Lukashenko, a close ally of Putin and an old acquaintance of Prigozhin, said that he had asked the Russian president to think "beyond our own noses" and that the elimination of Prigozhin can trigger a widespread revolt by his fighters.</p>

<p>The Belarusian leader also stated that the experience of Wagner troops can benefit his own army as the troop, according to the deal finalised with the Kremlin, are now free to go towards Belarus.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Wagner Revolt: Lukashenko positions himself as voice of reason</strong></p>

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<p>"This is the most trained unit in the army," Lukashenko was quoted by the BelTA state agency as saying. "Who will argue with this? My military also understands this, and we don't have such people in Belarus," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lukashenko, later, said to his military that "people fail to understand that we are approaching this in a pragmatic way ... They've (Wagner) been through it, they'll tell us about the weaponry - what worked well, which worked badly."</p>

<p>Prigozhin's "march of justice" towards Moscow from Rostov-on-Don, the southern city located within 200 kilometres of the capital, was halted after the intervention of Lukashenko.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claimed that he had requested Russian President Vladimir Putin not to "wipe out" mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin amid the armed mutiny of Wagner group that pushed Russia to the brink of civil war.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claimed that he had requested Russian President Vladimir Putin not to "wipe out" mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin amid the armed mutiny of Wagner group that pushed Russia to the brink of civil war. Initially, Putin had promised to crush the mutiny which it compared to the wartime turmoil that had led to the revolution of 1917 followed by civil war, however, hours later the Wagner chief finalised a deal which allowed him along with some of his fighters to go to Belarus. On Tuesday, Wagner chief flew to Belarus from Russia. Lukashenko, while talking about the conversation he had with Putin on Saturday, made use of the Russian criminal slang phrase used for killing someone which is similar to the English phrase to "wipe out". ALSO READ | Explained | How Lukashenko emerged as key player to resolve Wagner situation "I also understood: a brutal decision had been made (and it was the undertone of Putin's address) to wipe out the mutineers," said Lukashenko in a meeting of his army officials as well as journalists on Tuesday, as reported by the Belarusian state media. "I suggested to Putin not to rush. 'Come on,' I said, 'Let's talk with Prigozhin, with his commanders.' To which he told me: 'Listen, Sasha, it's useless. He doesn't even pick up the phone, he doesn’t want to talk to anyone'," he stated. The same Russian verb was used by Putin in 1999 about Chechen militants, as he vowed to "wipe out them out in the shithouse". The remarks made by Putin became a widely quoted emblem of the Russian leader's severe persona. 'Experience of Wagner troops beneficial' No immediate comment was made by Kremlin on the remarks of Lukashenko. The statements gave a rare insight into the conversations that took place inside the Kremlin as Russia, as per its own account of Putin, teetered towards a kind of turmoil which the country had not seen for decades. Lukashenko, a close ally of Putin and an old acquaintance of Prigozhin, said that he had asked the Russian president to think "beyond our own noses" and that the elimination of Prigozhin can trigger a widespread revolt by his fighters. The Belarusian leader also stated that the experience of Wagner troops can benefit his own army as the troop, according to the deal finalised with the Kremlin, are now free to go towards Belarus. WATCH | Wagner Revolt: Lukashenko positions himself as voice of reason "This is the most trained unit in the army," Lukashenko was quoted by the BelTA state agency as saying. "Who will argue with this? My military also understands this, and we don't have such people in Belarus," he added. Lukashenko, later, said to his military that "people fail to understand that we are approaching this in a pragmatic way ... They've (Wagner) been through it, they'll tell us about the weaponry - what worked well, which worked badly." Prigozhin's "march of justice" towards Moscow from Rostov-on-Don, the southern city located within 200 kilometres of the capital, was halted after the intervention of Lukashenko. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin wished to ‘wipe out’ Wagner chief Prigozhin after mutiny, claims Lukashenko

<p>Russia mercenary group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, who turned his force against the military leadership in Moscow, will quit Russia and move to Belarus under an agreement brokered by Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, the Kremlin said on Saturday.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
All criminal charges against Prigozhin will also be dropped under the deal that ends the&nbsp;armed insurrection&nbsp;that appeared as the gravest threat to the authority of Russian President Vladimir Putin.</p>

<p>"Avoiding bloodshed, internal confrontation, and clashes with unpredictable results was the highest goal," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.</p>

<p>Peskov further added that under the deal, Wagner fighters will also not be prosecuted. "We have always respected their heroic deeds at the front," he said.</p>

<p>"An agreement has been reached that Wagner would return to its bases," Peskov said, adding that those fighters who had not participated in the rebellion would be allowed to formally join the Russian army.</p>

<h2><strong>Wagner chief Prigozhin orders his fighters to retreat</strong></h2>

<p>Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner mercenary group, ordered his fighters to retreat from their advance towards Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation or avert the potential bloodshed. Prigozhin revealed on Saturday that his forces had made significant progress, covering a distance of 200 km (124 miles) within the past 24 hours, but he has now issued orders for them to promptly return to their respective bases.</p>

<p>This comes as Belarus claimed that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march toward Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in the last 30 years.</p>

<p>Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before his negotiations with Wagner's chief, he held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.”</p>

<p>The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement. It said Prigozhin had “accepted [Lukashenko’s] request to “stop the movement of armed men from the Wagner company on Russian territory and [take] further steps to de-escalate the situation.”</p>

<p>“At the moment, there is an absolutely advantageous and acceptable way to defuse the situation on the table, with security guarantees for Wagner’s fighters,” Lukashenko’s press service said, as per media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russian President Vladimir Putin thanks Lukashenko</strong></h2>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Saturday, thanked Belarus leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after the chief of mercenary group&nbsp;Wagner&nbsp;Yegevy Prigozhin announced he was turning around his forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The President of Belarus informed the President of Russia in detail about the results of negotiations with the leadership of PMC Wagner," Lukashenko's press service released a statement saying as quoted by news agency AFP, adding Putin "thanked his Belarusian colleague."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Russia mercenary group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, who turned his force against the military leadership in Moscow, will quit Russia and move to Belarus under an agreement brokered by Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, the Kremlin said on Saturday.

Russia mercenary group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, who turned his force against the military leadership in Moscow, will quit Russia and move to Belarus under an agreement brokered by Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, the Kremlin said on Saturday. All criminal charges against Prigozhin will also be dropped under the deal that ends the armed insurrection that appeared as the gravest threat to the authority of Russian President Vladimir Putin. "Avoiding bloodshed, internal confrontation, and clashes with unpredictable results was the highest goal," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Peskov further added that under the deal, Wagner fighters will also not be prosecuted. "We have always respected their heroic deeds at the front," he said. "An agreement has been reached that Wagner would return to its bases," Peskov said, adding that those fighters who had not participated in the rebellion would be allowed to formally join the Russian army. Wagner chief Prigozhin orders his fighters to retreat Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner mercenary group, ordered his fighters to retreat from their advance towards Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation or avert the potential bloodshed. Prigozhin revealed on Saturday that his forces had made significant progress, covering a distance of 200 km (124 miles) within the past 24 hours, but he has now issued orders for them to promptly return to their respective bases. This comes as Belarus claimed that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march toward Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in the last 30 years. Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin. Before his negotiations with Wagner's chief, he held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.” The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement. It said Prigozhin had “accepted [Lukashenko’s] request to “stop the movement of armed men from the Wagner company on Russian territory and [take] further steps to de-escalate the situation.” “At the moment, there is an absolutely advantageous and acceptable way to defuse the situation on the table, with security guarantees for Wagner’s fighters,” Lukashenko’s press service said, as per media reports. Russian President Vladimir Putin thanks Lukashenko Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Saturday, thanked Belarus leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after the chief of mercenary group Wagner Yegevy Prigozhin announced he was turning around his forces. "The President of Belarus informed the President of Russia in detail about the results of negotiations with the leadership of PMC Wagner," Lukashenko's press service released a statement saying as quoted by news agency AFP, adding Putin "thanked his Belarusian colleague." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin to quit Russia and move to Belarus under deal to end mutiny

<p>In a dramatic turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the rebel leader of the Wagner Group of mercenaries, ordered his fighters to retreat from their advance toward Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation and avert potential bloodshed following a deal with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko under which Russia would drop all charges against him and he will be granted safe passage to Belarus.&nbsp;Prigozhin revealed on Saturday that his forces had made significant progress, covering a distance of 200 km (124 miles) within the past 24 hours, but he has now issued orders for them to promptly return to their respective bases.</p>

<p>The Wagner mutiny drama ended after Belarus claimed that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march towards Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in last 30 years.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/archaeologists-unearth-4000-year-old-stonehenge-burial-ground-in-the-netherlands-608203">Archaeologists unearth 4,000-year-old ‘Stonehenge’ burial ground in the Netherlands</a></p>

<p>Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before his negotiations with Wagner&nbsp;chief, Lukashenko held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.”</p>

<p>The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement. It said Prigozhin had “accepted [Lukashenko’s] request to “stop the movement of armed men from the Wagner company on Russian territory and [take] further steps to de-escalate the situation.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-rolls-out-perspectives-tab-in-major-search-engine-revamp-608201">Google rolls out 'Perspectives' tab in major search-engine revamp</a></p>

<p>“At the moment, there is an absolutely advantageous and acceptable way to defuse the situation on the table, with security guarantees for Wagner’s fighters,” Lukashenko’s press service said, as per media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">⚡️⚡️⚡️ President of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Belarus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Belarus</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lukashenko?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lukashenko</a> held talks w/ head of PMC Wagner <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Prigozhin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Prigozhin</a>. Negotiations continued throughout the day.<br />
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‼️Y.Prigozhin accepted the proposal of President of 🇧🇾 to stop the movement of armed people of the Wagner company on the territory of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://t.co/Kpf2SW7RNu">pic.twitter.com/Kpf2SW7RNu</a></p>
— Belarus MFA 🇧🇾 (@BelarusMFA) <a href="https://twitter.com/BelarusMFA/status/1672660872668368898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Before Wagner chief's decision to turn back his forces, Ukraine's defence ministry mocked the presence of Russian troops on the country's land on Saturday, urging them to return home and participate in the ongoing clashes between rebel mercenaries and Russia's military. The ministry's statement questioned the reason behind Russian soldiers still being stationed in challenging conditions instead of supporting their comrades involved in the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the Ukrainian ministry asked, "Why Russian soldiers are still sitting in muddy trenches rather than running to the aid of their comrades on both sides of the conflict. That would be far safer than confronting the Ukrainian army."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | 'Putin's chef' vs Defence Minister: Where has Wagner operated?</strong></p>

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<p>Many world leaders were also keeping a close eye on the events in Russia as Putin faced a tough battle to push back Wagner chief from making gains in several Russian regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, Wagner chief pledged to overthrow Russia's military leadership and his forces were moving through the Lipetsk region, situated around 400 kilometres (250 miles) south of Moscow, however, it seems like a deal was brokered between the warring factions which ultimately lead to the turning back of mercenary forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia's parliamentary leaders had expressed support for President Putin against Wagner mercenaries. On Saturday, the speakers of both houses of the Russian parliament declared their backing for President Vladimir Putin amidst the Wagner mercenary group's attempted ousting of the country's military leadership.</p>

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In a dramatic turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the rebel leader of the Wagner Group of mercenaries, ordered his fighters to retreat from their advance toward Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation and avert potential bloodshed following a deal with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko under which Russia would drop all charges against him and he will be granted safe passage to Belarus.

In a dramatic turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the rebel leader of the Wagner Group of mercenaries, ordered his fighters to retreat from their advance toward Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation and avert potential bloodshed following a deal with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko under which Russia would drop all charges against him and he will be granted safe passage to Belarus. Prigozhin revealed on Saturday that his forces had made significant progress, covering a distance of 200 km (124 miles) within the past 24 hours, but he has now issued orders for them to promptly return to their respective bases. The Wagner mutiny drama ended after Belarus claimed that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march towards Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in last 30 years. Also Read | Archaeologists unearth 4,000-year-old ‘Stonehenge’ burial ground in the Netherlands Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin. Before his negotiations with Wagner chief, Lukashenko held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.” The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement. It said Prigozhin had “accepted [Lukashenko’s] request to “stop the movement of armed men from the Wagner company on Russian territory and [take] further steps to de-escalate the situation.” Also Read | Google rolls out 'Perspectives' tab in major search-engine revamp “At the moment, there is an absolutely advantageous and acceptable way to defuse the situation on the table, with security guarantees for Wagner’s fighters,” Lukashenko’s press service said, as per media reports. ⚡️⚡️⚡️ President of #Belarus #Lukashenko held talks w/ head of PMC Wagner #Prigozhin. Negotiations continued throughout the day. ‼️Y.Prigozhin accepted the proposal of President of 🇧🇾 to stop the movement of armed people of the Wagner company on the territory of #Russia pic.twitter.com/Kpf2SW7RNu — Belarus MFA 🇧🇾 (@BelarusMFA) June 24, 2023 × Before Wagner chief's decision to turn back his forces, Ukraine's defence ministry mocked the presence of Russian troops on the country's land on Saturday, urging them to return home and participate in the ongoing clashes between rebel mercenaries and Russia's military. The ministry's statement questioned the reason behind Russian soldiers still being stationed in challenging conditions instead of supporting their comrades involved in the conflict. In a statement, the Ukrainian ministry asked, "Why Russian soldiers are still sitting in muddy trenches rather than running to the aid of their comrades on both sides of the conflict. That would be far safer than confronting the Ukrainian army." Watch | 'Putin's chef' vs Defence Minister: Where has Wagner operated? × Many world leaders were also keeping a close eye on the events in Russia as Putin faced a tough battle to push back Wagner chief from making gains in several Russian regions. Earlier in the day, Wagner chief pledged to overthrow Russia's military leadership and his forces were moving through the Lipetsk region, situated around 400 kilometres (250 miles) south of Moscow, however, it seems like a deal was brokered between the warring factions which ultimately lead to the turning back of mercenary forces. Russia's parliamentary leaders had expressed support for President Putin against Wagner mercenaries. On Saturday, the speakers of both houses of the Russian parliament declared their backing for President Vladimir Putin amidst the Wagner mercenary group's attempted ousting of the country's military leadership. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Wagner chief Prigozhin orders fighters to retreat, halt advance on Moscow to prevent bloodshed

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Saturday, thanked Belarus leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after the chief of mercenary group, Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced he was turning around his forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The President of Belarus informed the President of Russia in detail about the results of negotiations with the leadership of PMC Wagner," Lukashenko's press service released a statement saying as quoted by news agency AFP, adding Putin "thanked his Belarusian colleague."</p>

<h2><strong>Wagner chief commands fighters to retreat</strong></h2>

<p>In a dramatic turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner mercenary, commanded his fighters to retreat from their advance toward Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation or avert the potential bloodshed.</p>

<p>His move came after Belarus asserted that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march toward Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in the last 30 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before his negotiations with Wagner's chief, he held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.”</p>

<p>The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;had made an emergency television broadcast railing against the “deadly threat to our state”.</p>

<p>Progozhin said that he wanted to avoid shedding Russian blood and would order his troops back to their bases instead.</p>

<p>“Now the moment has come when blood can be shed,” he said. “Therefore, realising all the responsibility for the fact that Russian blood will be shed from one side, we will turn our convoys around and go in the opposite direction to our field camps.”<br />
<br />
The Kremlin announced later on Saturday night that Prigozhin would move to Belarus under a deal to end what was in effect the country’s first armed coup in decades.</p>

<p>Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the criminal case that had been opened against Prigozhin for armed mutiny would be dropped, and the Wagner fighters who had taken part in his “march for justice” would not face any action in recognition of their previous service to Russia.</p>

<p>The Kremlin had earlier been forced to mobilise its forces and prepare defences as Prigozhin sent a convoy of armed troops towards Moscow.</p>

<p>Before Wagner chief's decision to turn back his forces, Ukraine's defence ministry mocked the presence of Russian troops within the country on Saturday, urging them to return home and participate in the ongoing clashes between rebel mercenaries and Russia's military. The ministry's statement questioned the reason behind Russian soldiers still being stationed in challenging conditions instead of supporting their comrades involved in the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the Ukrainian ministry asked, "why Russian soldiers are still sitting in muddy trenches rather than running to the aid of their comrades on both sides of the conflict. That would be far safer than confronting the Ukrainian army."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Saturday, thanked Belarus leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after the chief of mercenary group, Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced he was turning around his forces.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Saturday, thanked Belarus leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after the chief of mercenary group, Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced he was turning around his forces. "The President of Belarus informed the President of Russia in detail about the results of negotiations with the leadership of PMC Wagner," Lukashenko's press service released a statement saying as quoted by news agency AFP, adding Putin "thanked his Belarusian colleague." Wagner chief commands fighters to retreat In a dramatic turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner mercenary, commanded his fighters to retreat from their advance toward Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation or avert the potential bloodshed. His move came after Belarus asserted that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march toward Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in the last 30 years. Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin. Before his negotiations with Wagner's chief, he held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.” The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement. Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin had made an emergency television broadcast railing against the “deadly threat to our state”. Progozhin said that he wanted to avoid shedding Russian blood and would order his troops back to their bases instead. “Now the moment has come when blood can be shed,” he said. “Therefore, realising all the responsibility for the fact that Russian blood will be shed from one side, we will turn our convoys around and go in the opposite direction to our field camps.” The Kremlin announced later on Saturday night that Prigozhin would move to Belarus under a deal to end what was in effect the country’s first armed coup in decades. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the criminal case that had been opened against Prigozhin for armed mutiny would be dropped, and the Wagner fighters who had taken part in his “march for justice” would not face any action in recognition of their previous service to Russia. The Kremlin had earlier been forced to mobilise its forces and prepare defences as Prigozhin sent a convoy of armed troops towards Moscow. Before Wagner chief's decision to turn back his forces, Ukraine's defence ministry mocked the presence of Russian troops within the country on Saturday, urging them to return home and participate in the ongoing clashes between rebel mercenaries and Russia's military. The ministry's statement questioned the reason behind Russian soldiers still being stationed in challenging conditions instead of supporting their comrades involved in the conflict. In a statement, the Ukrainian ministry asked, "why Russian soldiers are still sitting in muddy trenches rather than running to the aid of their comrades on both sides of the conflict. That would be far safer than confronting the Ukrainian army." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian President Vladimir Putin thanks Belarus leader after Wagner chief announces turnaround

<p lang="en-US">Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the Russians on Saturday, said that necessary orders have been given to the troops to neutralise those who have orchestrated the armed rebellion.<br />
<br />
The president addressed the nation as Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's armed forces declared to have gained control over the Russian city of RostoV and his army continued to 'march' towards the capital to oust the military leadership of the country.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Putin appeals for 'unity', says won't allow civil war</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">"I appeal to the citizens of Russia, to the personnel of the Armed Forces, law enforcement agencies and special services, to the soldiers and commanders who are now fighting in their combat positions, repelling enemy attacks – they are doing it heroically. I know. Today, I once again spoke with the commanders of all directions. I also appeal to those who, by deceit or threats, were dragged into a criminal adventure, pushed onto the path of a grave crime – an armed rebellion,” Putin said, in his address.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-issues-arrest-warrant-against-wagner-chief-after-his-call-for-mutiny-608089">Russia orders Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s arrest after his call for mutiny</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">"This is a battle when the fate of our people is being decided, it requires the unity of all forces, unity, consolidation and responsibility, when everything that weakens us, any strife that our external enemies can use and use to undermine us from the inside must be thrown aside".</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Putin calls Wagner chief's actions 'stab in the back', 'betrayal'</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">"The actions that split our unity are, in fact, apostasy from our people, from our comrades-in-arms who are now fighting at the front. This is a stab in the back to our country and our people. We will protect both our people and our statehood from any threats, including from internal betrayal, and what we are faced with is precisely betrayal&nbsp;to the cause for which, side by side with our other units and subunits, the fighters and commanders of the Wagner group fought and died,” the Russian president said.<br />
<br />
"I believe that we will save and defend what is dear and sacred to us. Together with our homeland, we will overcome any trials, we will become even stronger. Everyone who deliberately took the path of betrayal, who prepared an armed rebellion, took the path of rebellion and terrorist methods will suffer inevitable punishment, will answer before the law and before our people,” he added.<br />
<br />
The Wagner chief is facing accusations of "incitement to armed rebellion" as he asked Russians to support his 25,000 Wagner fighters against Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. Prigozhin has been charged with armed mutiny and can face up to 20 years of imprisonment, as per TASS.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Wagner chief accuses Russia military of bombing its forces</strong></p>

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<p lang="en-US">"Amid the seriousness of the situation and the threat of escalation of confrontation in the Russian Federation the FSB has opened a criminal case into the fact of a call for an armed rebellion on the part of Yevgeny Prigozhin," the Federal Security Service’s Public Relations Centre said.<br />
<br />
Russia, which has been engaging with Ukraine in one of the longest wars, is on the brink of civil war and feared a coup as it faced a rebellion from the Wagner group. Amid the escalating situation, an "anti-terrorist operation regime" has been declared in Moscow and all public events have been cancelled.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the Russians on Saturday, said that necessary orders have been given to the troops to neutralise those who have orchestrated the armed rebellion.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the Russians on Saturday, said that necessary orders have been given to the troops to neutralise those who have orchestrated the armed rebellion. The president addressed the nation as Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's armed forces declared to have gained control over the Russian city of RostoV and his army continued to 'march' towards the capital to oust the military leadership of the country. Putin appeals for 'unity', says won't allow civil war "I appeal to the citizens of Russia, to the personnel of the Armed Forces, law enforcement agencies and special services, to the soldiers and commanders who are now fighting in their combat positions, repelling enemy attacks – they are doing it heroically. I know. Today, I once again spoke with the commanders of all directions. I also appeal to those who, by deceit or threats, were dragged into a criminal adventure, pushed onto the path of a grave crime – an armed rebellion,” Putin said, in his address. ALSO READ | Russia orders Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s arrest after his call for mutiny "This is a battle when the fate of our people is being decided, it requires the unity of all forces, unity, consolidation and responsibility, when everything that weakens us, any strife that our external enemies can use and use to undermine us from the inside must be thrown aside". Putin calls Wagner chief's actions 'stab in the back', 'betrayal' "The actions that split our unity are, in fact, apostasy from our people, from our comrades-in-arms who are now fighting at the front. This is a stab in the back to our country and our people. We will protect both our people and our statehood from any threats, including from internal betrayal, and what we are faced with is precisely betrayal to the cause for which, side by side with our other units and subunits, the fighters and commanders of the Wagner group fought and died,” the Russian president said. "I believe that we will save and defend what is dear and sacred to us. Together with our homeland, we will overcome any trials, we will become even stronger. Everyone who deliberately took the path of betrayal, who prepared an armed rebellion, took the path of rebellion and terrorist methods will suffer inevitable punishment, will answer before the law and before our people,” he added. The Wagner chief is facing accusations of "incitement to armed rebellion" as he asked Russians to support his 25,000 Wagner fighters against Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. Prigozhin has been charged with armed mutiny and can face up to 20 years of imprisonment, as per TASS. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Wagner chief accuses Russia military of bombing its forces "Amid the seriousness of the situation and the threat of escalation of confrontation in the Russian Federation the FSB has opened a criminal case into the fact of a call for an armed rebellion on the part of Yevgeny Prigozhin," the Federal Security Service’s Public Relations Centre said. Russia, which has been engaging with Ukraine in one of the longest wars, is on the brink of civil war and feared a coup as it faced a rebellion from the Wagner group. Amid the escalating situation, an "anti-terrorist operation regime" has been declared in Moscow and all public events have been cancelled. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'This is treason': Putin appeals for 'unity', calls Wagner mutiny 'deadly threat' to Russia

<p>Ukraine on Friday claimed to have struck down 13 cruise missiles fired by Russian forces overnight targeting an airfield in the west of the country.</p>

<p>"Thirteen of the occupiers' cruise missiles were destroyed on June 23.... This time, the attack was aimed at a military airfield in the Khmelnytskyi region," the Ukrainian air force said on social media.</p>

<p>The country’s air force said that four TU-95 bombers fired 13 Kh-101/Kh-555 cruise missiles from the Caspian Sea against a military airfield in Khmelnytskyi Oblast.</p>

<p>"The launches were carried out around midnight from the Caspian Sea from four Tu-95MS bombers," the air force statement said.</p>

<p>Air raid alerts rang across&nbsp; Ukraine early on Friday, with warnings of Russian missile and drone attacks issued over wide areas.</p>

<p>The military also alleged that it has eliminated one reconnaissance drone of an unspecified type.</p>

<p>Mayor of Khmelnytskyi, Oleksandr Symchyshyn reported explosions in the town with a pre-war population of around 275,000 and praised Ukrainian air defence systems.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia considering nuclear plant terror attack: Zelensky</strong></h2>

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<p>Meanwhile, Ukraine’s armed forces said they have halted a Russian offensive towards the cities of Kupiansk and Lyman in the east of the country, and are advancing in the south.</p>

<p>“We had very fierce battles in the Kupiansk and Lyman directions, but our soldiers stopped the enemy there,” Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar told Ukrainian television.</p>

<p>Attacks on Russia-held regions have intensified over the past month, after Ukraine received military aid to start its counter-offensive.</p>

<p>So far, it has retaken eight villages during its counteroperation, its first substantial gains on the battlefield for seven months, but Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky admitted that it has not been smooth sailing as he&nbsp;would have expected.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Russian Navy likely training dolphins’</strong></h2>

<p>The British Ministry of Defence (MoD) in its report has claimed that Russia has been training combat dolphins in the Crimean peninsula.</p>

<p>In its daily intelligence update, the report said that the Russian Navy has invested heavily in security at the Black Sea Fleet’s main base at Sevastopol.</p>

<p>“In recent weeks, these defences have highly likely also been augmented by an increased number of trained marine mammals. Imagery shows a near doubling of floating mammal pens in the harbour which highly likely contain bottle-nosed dolphins,” the report said.</p>

<p>“In Arctic waters, the navy also uses Beluga whales and seals. Russia has trained animals for a range of missions, but the ones housed in Sevastopol harbour are highly likely intended to counter enemy divers.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

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Ukraine on Friday claimed to have struck down 13 cruise missiles fired by Russian forces overnight targeting an airfield in the west of the country. "Thirteen of the occupiers' cruise missiles were destroyed on June 23.

Ukraine on Friday claimed to have struck down 13 cruise missiles fired by Russian forces overnight targeting an airfield in the west of the country. "Thirteen of the occupiers' cruise missiles were destroyed on June 23.... This time, the attack was aimed at a military airfield in the Khmelnytskyi region," the Ukrainian air force said on social media. The country’s air force said that four TU-95 bombers fired 13 Kh-101/Kh-555 cruise missiles from the Caspian Sea against a military airfield in Khmelnytskyi Oblast. "The launches were carried out around midnight from the Caspian Sea from four Tu-95MS bombers," the air force statement said. Air raid alerts rang across Ukraine early on Friday, with warnings of Russian missile and drone attacks issued over wide areas. The military also alleged that it has eliminated one reconnaissance drone of an unspecified type. Mayor of Khmelnytskyi, Oleksandr Symchyshyn reported explosions in the town with a pre-war population of around 275,000 and praised Ukrainian air defence systems. Russia considering nuclear plant terror attack: Zelensky Meanwhile, Ukraine’s armed forces said they have halted a Russian offensive towards the cities of Kupiansk and Lyman in the east of the country, and are advancing in the south. “We had very fierce battles in the Kupiansk and Lyman directions, but our soldiers stopped the enemy there,” Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar told Ukrainian television. Attacks on Russia-held regions have intensified over the past month, after Ukraine received military aid to start its counter-offensive. So far, it has retaken eight villages during its counteroperation, its first substantial gains on the battlefield for seven months, but Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky admitted that it has not been smooth sailing as he would have expected. ‘Russian Navy likely training dolphins’ The British Ministry of Defence (MoD) in its report has claimed that Russia has been training combat dolphins in the Crimean peninsula. In its daily intelligence update, the report said that the Russian Navy has invested heavily in security at the Black Sea Fleet’s main base at Sevastopol. “In recent weeks, these defences have highly likely also been augmented by an increased number of trained marine mammals. Imagery shows a near doubling of floating mammal pens in the harbour which highly likely contain bottle-nosed dolphins,” the report said. “In Arctic waters, the navy also uses Beluga whales and seals. Russia has trained animals for a range of missions, but the ones housed in Sevastopol harbour are highly likely intended to counter enemy divers.” (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine claims to have struck down 13 cruise missiles fired by Russia

<p>The United Nations has put the Russian army and its armed groups on its “list of shame” for killing and maiming hundreds of children during its ongoing war in Ukraine, reported news agency AFP, on Thursday (June 22). The report seen by Reuters, says Russia killed at least 136 children in Ukraine last year and has since added Moscow’s forces to a global list of offenders.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-e2bfd44a-7fff-72d5-ff48-4d5ecb69e0bc">What was the report about?</b></h2>

<p dir="ltr">The UN report, as per Reuters, said that at least 24,300 violations had been committed against children in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The annual report is about the treatment of children in conflict zones which is submitted to the 15-member UNSC and accounts attacks such as killing, maiming, sexual abuse, abduction or recruitment of children, denial of aid access and targeting of schools and hospitals.</p>

<p>The report was compiled by Virginia Gamba, United Nations chief Antonio Guterres’ special representative for children and armed conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the so-called “list of shame” is intended to shame the parties involved in the conflict and hopes to push them to implement measures for protecting children during a war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report, in question, will be made public next week. It also reportedly noted most violations were in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories, Somalia, Syria, Ukraine, Afghanistan, Haiti and Yemen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Guterres in the report said that “non-state armed groups” were responsible for 50 per cent of the “grave violations,” adding that “government forces were the main perpetrator of the killing and maiming of children, attacks on schools and hospitals, and the denial of humanitarian access,” as quoted by Reuters.</p>

<h2><strong>What did it find about Russia and Ukraine?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the UN report, Russian armed forces and affiliated groups in addition to killing over 100 children, also maimed 518 children and carried out 480 attacks on schools and hospitals, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian forces have also been accused of using 91 children as human shields. Last year, as per the document, a total of 477 were killed in Ukraine and 909 were maimed, as per AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, the report also shows that Ukrainian armed forces killed 80 children, maimed 175 children and carried out 212 attacks on schools and hospitals, as per Reuters, but has not made it to the so-called “list of shame”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Gamba visited Kyiv and Moscow where she met with Russia’s envoy for children’s rights, Maria Lvova-Belova who is currently wanted by the International Criminal Court for war crimes charges along with Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after the ICC issued an arrest warrant against them, earlier this year, for the illegal deportation of Ukrainian children and unlawful transfer of people from Ukraine to Russia since the beginning of the conflict over a year ago.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Particularly shocked…’: UN chief fumes over findings</strong></h2>

<p>In the document, as per reports, the UN chief said he is “appalled” by the high number of grave violations committed in Ukraine, last year. Guterres also said that he is “particularly disturbed” by such a number of offences committed against children by Ukrainian armed forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I am particularly shocked by the high number of attacks on schools and hospitals and protected personnel, and by the high number of children killed and maimed attributed to the Russian forces and affiliated armed groups,” said Guterres about Russia, in the report, as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is also worth noting that despite years of criticism and push by human rights organisations, Israel has not made it to the so-called list for killing dozens of Palestinian children. According to the UN report, Israeli forces killed 42 children last year, and 78 in 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing this the UN chief noted, a “meaningful decrease in the number of children killed by Israeli forces, including by air strikes.” “Nevertheless, I remain deeply concerned by the number of children killed and maimed by Israeli forces during hostilities,” Guterres said, as quoted by AFP. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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The United Nations has put the Russian army and its armed groups on its “list of shame” for killing and maiming hundreds of children during its ongoing war in Ukraine, reported news agency AFP, on Thursday (June 22).

The United Nations has put the Russian army and its armed groups on its “list of shame” for killing and maiming hundreds of children during its ongoing war in Ukraine, reported news agency AFP, on Thursday (June 22). The report seen by Reuters, says Russia killed at least 136 children in Ukraine last year and has since added Moscow’s forces to a global list of offenders. What was the report about? The UN report, as per Reuters, said that at least 24,300 violations had been committed against children in 2022. The annual report is about the treatment of children in conflict zones which is submitted to the 15-member UNSC and accounts attacks such as killing, maiming, sexual abuse, abduction or recruitment of children, denial of aid access and targeting of schools and hospitals. The report was compiled by Virginia Gamba, United Nations chief Antonio Guterres’ special representative for children and armed conflict. Notably, the so-called “list of shame” is intended to shame the parties involved in the conflict and hopes to push them to implement measures for protecting children during a war. The report, in question, will be made public next week. It also reportedly noted most violations were in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories, Somalia, Syria, Ukraine, Afghanistan, Haiti and Yemen. Guterres in the report said that “non-state armed groups” were responsible for 50 per cent of the “grave violations,” adding that “government forces were the main perpetrator of the killing and maiming of children, attacks on schools and hospitals, and the denial of humanitarian access,” as quoted by Reuters. What did it find about Russia and Ukraine? According to the UN report, Russian armed forces and affiliated groups in addition to killing over 100 children, also maimed 518 children and carried out 480 attacks on schools and hospitals, reported Reuters. The Russian forces have also been accused of using 91 children as human shields. Last year, as per the document, a total of 477 were killed in Ukraine and 909 were maimed, as per AFP. On the other hand, the report also shows that Ukrainian armed forces killed 80 children, maimed 175 children and carried out 212 attacks on schools and hospitals, as per Reuters, but has not made it to the so-called “list of shame”. Notably, Gamba visited Kyiv and Moscow where she met with Russia’s envoy for children’s rights, Maria Lvova-Belova who is currently wanted by the International Criminal Court for war crimes charges along with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This comes after the ICC issued an arrest warrant against them, earlier this year, for the illegal deportation of Ukrainian children and unlawful transfer of people from Ukraine to Russia since the beginning of the conflict over a year ago. ‘Particularly shocked…’: UN chief fumes over findings In the document, as per reports, the UN chief said he is “appalled” by the high number of grave violations committed in Ukraine, last year. Guterres also said that he is “particularly disturbed” by such a number of offences committed against children by Ukrainian armed forces. “I am particularly shocked by the high number of attacks on schools and hospitals and protected personnel, and by the high number of children killed and maimed attributed to the Russian forces and affiliated armed groups,” said Guterres about Russia, in the report, as quoted by AFP. It is also worth noting that despite years of criticism and push by human rights organisations, Israel has not made it to the so-called list for killing dozens of Palestinian children. According to the UN report, Israeli forces killed 42 children last year, and 78 in 2021. Addressing this the UN chief noted, a “meaningful decrease in the number of children killed by Israeli forces, including by air strikes.” “Nevertheless, I remain deeply concerned by the number of children killed and maimed by Israeli forces during hostilities,” Guterres said, as quoted by AFP. (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.

UN adds Russia to its ‘list of shame’ over Ukraine war: Here’s why

<p>A spokesperson for the Pentagon said Tuesday that it overestimated the value of weapons it sent to Ukraine over the last two years by a whopping $6.2 billion. Sabrina Singh, the Pentagon’s spokeswoman revealed that the accounting error took place as military officials took into account the replacement cost rather than the book value of the weapons pulled from the Pentagon stocks to be delivered to the war-torn nation.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BREAKING: Pentagon says it overestimated the value of the weapons it has sent to Ukraine by $6.2 billion<a href="https://t.co/GesSDyU1xV">pic.twitter.com/GesSDyU1xV</a></p>
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<p>This adjustment has now led to a surplus in American coffers which the administration plans to use in future security packages meant to shore up Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russia. Of $6.2 billion, there was an error of $3.6 billion in the current fiscal year and $2.6 billion in the previous year ending September 2022.<br />
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“It’s just going to go back into the pot of money that we have allocated&nbsp;for the future Pentagon stock drawdowns,” the spokeswoman said.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine’s new counter-offensive against Russia</strong></h2>

<p>In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, new developments have emerged as Ukraine launches a counteroffensive against the Kremlin's occupying forces. This move aims to reclaim the territory that has been under Russian control since the full-scale invasion in February 2022.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Fake image of explosion at Pentagon briefly goes viral</strong></p>

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<p>However, Ukrainian forces are encountering challenges such as heavily mined areas and fortified defences, as stated by Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the commander in chief of Ukraine's armed forces.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia’s assault on Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Simultaneously, Russia has intensified its assault on the Kyiv region by deploying numerous Shahed exploding drones. This attack has exposed vulnerabilities in the air defence system of Ukraine, which has been engaged in warfare for nearly 16 months. Ukrainian officials reported that they successfully intercepted and destroyed 32 out of the 35 drones launched by Russia early on Tuesday.</p>

<h2><strong>USA’s military aid to Ukraine so far</strong></h2>

<p>Initially estimated on June 13, the US had pledged over $40 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since the Russian invasion. However, with the new calculation, it appears that the actual amount of aid provided by the US is less than $34 billion.</p>

<p>It is difficult for officials to determine the exact remaining funds available for drawdowns or the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which offers long-term funding for the procurement of various weapons, including larger air defence systems.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-daniel-ellsbergs-history-defining-disclosure-with-pentagon-papers-that-rocked-white-house-605431"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Explained | Daniel Ellsberg's history-defining expose of Pentagon Papers that rocked White House</strong></a></p>

<p>In response to Russia's invasion, the US has approved four rounds of aid to Ukraine, totalling approximately $113 billion. Some of this financial support has been allocated to replenishing US military equipment that was deployed to the frontlines.</p>

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A spokesperson for the Pentagon said Tuesday that it overestimated the value of weapons it sent to Ukraine over the last two years by a whopping $6.2 billion. Sabrina Singh, the Pentagon’s spokeswoman revealed that the accounting error took place as military officials took into account the replacement cost rather than the book value of the weapons pulled from the Pentagon stocks to be delivered to the war-torn nation.

A spokesperson for the Pentagon said Tuesday that it overestimated the value of weapons it sent to Ukraine over the last two years by a whopping $6.2 billion. Sabrina Singh, the Pentagon’s spokeswoman revealed that the accounting error took place as military officials took into account the replacement cost rather than the book value of the weapons pulled from the Pentagon stocks to be delivered to the war-torn nation. BREAKING: Pentagon says it overestimated the value of the weapons it has sent to Ukraine by $6.2 billionpic.twitter.com/GesSDyU1xV — The Spectator Index (@spectatorindex) June 20, 2023 × This adjustment has now led to a surplus in American coffers which the administration plans to use in future security packages meant to shore up Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russia. Of $6.2 billion, there was an error of $3.6 billion in the current fiscal year and $2.6 billion in the previous year ending September 2022. “It’s just going to go back into the pot of money that we have allocated for the future Pentagon stock drawdowns,” the spokeswoman said. Ukraine’s new counter-offensive against Russia In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, new developments have emerged as Ukraine launches a counteroffensive against the Kremlin's occupying forces. This move aims to reclaim the territory that has been under Russian control since the full-scale invasion in February 2022. Watch: Fake image of explosion at Pentagon briefly goes viral × However, Ukrainian forces are encountering challenges such as heavily mined areas and fortified defences, as stated by Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the commander in chief of Ukraine's armed forces. Russia’s assault on Ukraine Simultaneously, Russia has intensified its assault on the Kyiv region by deploying numerous Shahed exploding drones. This attack has exposed vulnerabilities in the air defence system of Ukraine, which has been engaged in warfare for nearly 16 months. Ukrainian officials reported that they successfully intercepted and destroyed 32 out of the 35 drones launched by Russia early on Tuesday. USA’s military aid to Ukraine so far Initially estimated on June 13, the US had pledged over $40 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since the Russian invasion. However, with the new calculation, it appears that the actual amount of aid provided by the US is less than $34 billion. It is difficult for officials to determine the exact remaining funds available for drawdowns or the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which offers long-term funding for the procurement of various weapons, including larger air defence systems. Also read: Explained | Daniel Ellsberg's history-defining expose of Pentagon Papers that rocked White House In response to Russia's invasion, the US has approved four rounds of aid to Ukraine, totalling approximately $113 billion. Some of this financial support has been allocated to replenishing US military equipment that was deployed to the frontlines. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US overestimated value of weapons sent to Ukraine by $6.2 billion: Pentagon

<p>Kyiv said on Tuesday (June 20) that European Union member states are planning to train 30,000 members of Ukraine's armed forces this year. The members of the armed forces also include territorial defence units.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The defence ministry in Kyiv said, "In 2023, the EU Military Assistance Mission for Ukraine plans to train 30,000 Ukrainian armed forces personnel, including soldiers of the territorial defence forces."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement comes after EU officials made a pledge earlier this year in February that it would train 30,000 Ukrainian troops, building on an initial target of 15,000 personnel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russian-air-strikes-hit-kyiv-other-regions-far-from-front-lines-606608">Russian air strikes hit Kyiv, other regions far from frontline</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>EU offers Ukraine over 50 billion dollars through 2027&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The EU said on Tuesday that it will provide Ukraine with $54.58 billion in aid for 2024-27. EU's president said ahead of a gathering in London to secure short-term financing and money to rebuild the nation from Russia's war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the first part of a "Green Marshall Plan" for reconstruction, Ukraine asked up to $40 billion from the London conference starting on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the World Bank estimates, the war-ravaged nation needs more than $400 billion over a decade, which is three times Ukraine's GDP.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-planning-to-launch-missiles-at-crimea-russia-claims-606594">Ukraine planning to launch missiles at Crimea, Russia claims</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Rostyslav Shurma, who is a deputy head of President Volodymyr Zelensky's office, told Reuters the first focus would be the iron and steel industry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The news agency said in its report that in 2021, the sector provided around 10% of Ukrainian GDP, a third of export income, and employed over 600,000 people. Shurma said that it accounted for 15% of the country's carbon emissions. The official said that he believes there is now a potential to establish an economy based on renewable energy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>"If you have to rebuild, it is logical to rebuild green in line with new technologies ... Our vision is to build a 50 million tonnes green steel industry in Ukraine," he said.</p>

<p>Shurma added that many of the country's damaged legacy steel plants were built in locations that suited their reliance on coal as a power source, but now, they were free to build closer to the iron ore deposits and away from the Donbas region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the aim was to "provide predictable finance to Ukraine on its EU path, together with global partners and the private sector."&nbsp;</p>

<p>At a conference aimed at encouraging private companies to invest in the country's reconstruction after Russia's invasion, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he would set out a new assistance package for Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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Kyiv said on Tuesday (June 20) that European Union member states are planning to train 30,000 members of Ukraine's armed forces this year. The members of the armed forces also include territorial defence units.

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

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

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

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

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

<p>A Russia-installed official, on Sunday (June 18) acknowledged that Ukrainian forces have recaptured Piatykhatky village in the southern Zapororizhzhia region, in what might be the second&nbsp;reported gains in the region since Kyiv began its counteroffensive, earlier this month. Meanwhile, both Ukrainian and Russian officials have reported a rise in the death toll after the destruction of the Kakhovka dam.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>D<strong>eath toll due to Kakhovka dam breach rises</strong></h2>

<p>The death toll from the floods due to the destruction of the Kakhovka dam rose to 16 in Ukraine, said the officials in Kyiv. Meanwhile, a Russia-installed official in the Moscow-occupied parts of the Kherson region, Andrei Alekseyenko, took to Telegram and said at least 29 people have lost their lives due to the flood, as of late Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Ukrainian interior ministry, in a statement also said that more than 3,600 people have been evacuated from the flooded areas in the Kherson and Mykolaiv regions and some 31 were still missing. Additionally, as of late Saturday, at least 1,300 were flooded, said the Ukrainian officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The destruction of the Soviet-era dam on the Dnipro River has prompted the evacuation of thousands of people after it unleashed a flood in several parts of southern Ukraine and in Russia-occupied parts of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While, both Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of destroying the dam, a team of international legal experts who are helping prosecutors in Kyiv with the investigation, in their preliminary findings on Friday said it was “highly likely” that the collapse of the Soviet-era dam was caused by explosives planted by Russians.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian forces reportedly take over another village</strong></h2>

<p>In what might be the second gain&nbsp;for the Ukrainian forces along the southern Zaporizhzhia region front, a Russian-installed official Vladimir Rogov reported that Kyiv has taken over the settlement of Piatykhatky. Rogov took to Telegram and said Ukrainian forces have entrenched themselves there while coming under fire from Russian troops.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The enemy’s ‘wave-like’ offensives yielded results, despite enormous losses,” said the Russian official, adding that heavy fighting continues in the area. The claim was not immediately confirmed by Kyiv. This also comes days after&nbsp;Ukraine said it regained&nbsp;control of&nbsp;Lobkove, a village adjacent to Piatykhatky in Zaporizhzhia region.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, the Russian defence ministry, in a statement on Sunday said&nbsp;its forces had repelled a series of Ukrainian attacks across three sections of the front line with "most active actions" in&nbsp;Zaporizhzhia direction while also mentioning&nbsp;attempts to attack in the&nbsp;South-Donetsk and Donetsk directions. However, the ministry did not confirm the Russian-installed official's claim.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine claims to have destroyed ‘significant’ ammunition depot in Kherso</strong>n</h2>

<p>A spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, Serhiy Bratchuk, on Sunday, claimed that Ukrainian forces have destroyed a “significant” ammunition depot near the Russian-occupied port city of Henichesk in Kherson. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In a video message, Bratchuk, said, “Our armed forces dealt a good blow in the morning - and a very loud one - in the village of Rykove, Henichesk district, in the temporarily occupied territory of the Kherson region.” He added, “There was a very significant ammunition depot. It was destroyed.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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A Russia-installed official, on Sunday (June 18) acknowledged that Ukrainian forces have recaptured Piatykhatky village in the southern Zapororizhzhia region, in what might be the second reported gains in the region since Kyiv began its counteroffensive, earlier this month.

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

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

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

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

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

<p>Russian air defence units successfully repelled a drone attack carried out by Ukrainian forces targeting a pumping station on the Druzhba oil pipeline located in the area, reported Reuters quoting Alexander Bogomaz, the governor of the Bryansk region, which borders Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In recent weeks, Ukrainian drone attacks inside Russia have been increasing in intensity. Three Ukrainian military drones were destroyed during the attack in the Novozybkov district in Bryansk Oblast, Bogomaz said on Telegram. These drone attacks have been occurring more frequently in recent weeks, often focusing on energy facilities. While Russia attributes the attacks to Ukraine, Kyiv has not publicly claimed responsibility for them.</p>

<h2><strong>Druzhba pipeline and its importance</strong></h2>

<p>The Druzhba oil pipeline, capable of pumping over 2 million barrels per day (bpd), stands as a major global pipeline, providing Russian oil to numerous Eastern and Central European nations. The southern branch of the Druzhba pipeline, which was established during the Soviet era, traverses Ukraine and continues to supply crude oil to Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stoltenberg-expected-to-be-asked-to-extend-another-term-as-nato-chief-amid-replacement-challenges-605543">Stoltenberg expected to be asked to extend another term as NATO Chief amid replacement challenges</a></p>

<p>Unfortunately, due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the pipeline has faced multiple disruptions. In the past, the supply to Hungary and Slovakia through the pipeline's southern branch was temporarily halted. Despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the pipeline remains operational, serving as a crucial energy route for these countries.</p>

<p>Russian officials and media reported that Ukraine launched drone attacks on oil pipeline installations within Russian territory in late May, including a station that serves the Druzhba pipeline. The attacks were accompanied by shelling from Ukraine, which resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals, according to Russian sources quoted by reports.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>EU proposes halt of Russian oil supplies via Druzhba pipeline</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>In May, European Union (EU) put forward a proposal to officially cease the supply of Russian oil through the northern section of the Druzhba pipeline to Germany and Poland, as per documents seen by Bloomberg.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shehbaz-sharif-calls-on-nawaz-sharif-to-become-pakistan-pm-again-lead-election-campaign-605527">Shehbaz Sharif calls on Nawaz Sharif to become Pakistan PM again, lead election campaign</a></p>

<p>Previously, these countries were allowed to receive Russian oil under a derogation of EU sanctions. However, exemptions permitting the flow of oil through the southern branch of the pipeline, which supplies Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic, will remain unaffected.</p>

<h2><strong>No ban on Kazakh oil, imports from third countries</strong></h2>

<p>According to Bloomberg's report, there is no discussion regarding the prohibition of Kazakh oil flowing through the Druzhba pipeline after the suspension of Russian oil deliveries.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy</strong></p>

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<p>Furthermore, imports originating from other third countries, even if the oil transits via Russia, are permitted under the current proposal.</p>

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Russian air defence units successfully repelled a drone attack carried out by Ukrainian forces targeting a pumping station on the Druzhba oil pipeline located in the area, reported Reuters quoting Alexander Bogomaz, the governor of the Bryansk region, which borders Ukraine.

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

Russia thwarts drone attack on Druzhba oil pipeline station near Ukraine border

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

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

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

<p>The Red Cross said on Wednesday (June 14) that it had visited 1500 prisoners of war (POW) on both sides of the conflict in Ukraine. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has stressed the importance of access to both Russian and Ukrainian POWs.</p>

<p>The ICRC said such visits are of importance to check detention conditions, offering support and sometimes books, hygiene items and other personal necessities. The visits are also vital to relay information between the prisoners and their loved ones.</p>

<p>"For the prisoners of war and their families who have been able to share news, the impact is... immeasurable," Ariane Bauer, ICRC's regional director for Europe and Central Asia, told reporters.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Ukraine's Andriy Yermak dials India's NSA Ajit Doval seeking support for peace plan</strong></p>

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<p>The ICRC&nbsp;and&nbsp;its partners have till now delivered around 2500 personal messages between POWs and their families in the Ukraine conflict.</p>

<p>The organisation said it had also helped provide around 5,500 families with information on the fate of their loved ones in the conflict.</p>

<p>Visiting the POWs forms the core to ICRC's mission which is enshrined in the Geneva conventions.</p>

<p>Geneva conventions define the laws of war.</p>

<h2><strong>Red Cross not pushing hard enough, feels Zelensky&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeatedly criticised the Red Cross on the ultra-sensitive subject of POW visits. Zelensky has accused the&nbsp;Red Cross of not pushing hard enough to gain access to Ukraine troops who are captured by Russian forces.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-belarus-begins-taking-delivery-of-russian-nuclear-weapons-604512">Ukraine war: Belarus begins taking delivery of Russian nuclear weapons</a></strong></p>

<p>The organisation sees it as a vital part of its mandate to "access prisoners of war on both sides", ICRC president Mirjana Spoljaric told reporters last week.</p>

<p>"We are progressing," she added.</p>

<p>The ICRC has said that it has access to POWs held by Russia including in recent weeks. However, the ICRC has not revealed breakdown of how many POWs on either side of the conflict it has visited on either side&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ICRC never reveals such numbers, nor any details on the conditions it finds in detention centres as part of its unrelenting commitment to neutrality.</p>

<p>Bauer acknowledged that this commitment during times of conflict, particularly Ukraine war, is often "misunderstood".</p>

<p>"Neutrality is not a moral position. It's a tool that helps us work and get access to prisoners of war, to populations in difficult situations," she said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Red Cross said on Wednesday (June 14) that it had visited 1500 prisoners of war (POW) on both sides of the conflict in Ukraine. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has stressed the importance of access to both Russian and Ukrainian POWs.

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

Russia-Ukraine war: Red Cross visits POWs ‘on both sides’ of conflict

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

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

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

<p>Russian missiles struck civilian buildings in Ukraine's Black Sea port of Odesa overnight, killing at least three people and wounding 13, Ukraine's military said early on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Russia launched four cruise missiles on the city, the South command of Ukraine's Armed Forces said. The military said earlier that two missiles were destroyed before hitting their targets.</p>

<p>"As a result of air combat and blast waves, a business centre, an educational institution, a residential complex, food establishments and shops in the city centre were damaged," the South command said on the Telegram messaging app.</p>

<p>The three people killed were working at a retail chain's warehouse when a missile hit, setting it ablaze, the military added. Seven people were wounded there.</p>

<p>"Sifting through the debris continues," the military said. "There may be people under."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-claims-to-retaken-ground-from-russian-forces-604064"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Kyiv claims to retaken ground from Russian forces</strong></a></p>

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<p>Serhiy Bratchuk, a spokesman for the Odesa military administration, posted a video and photographs showing multi-storey buildings with parts of their walls missing and windows blown out, as well as firefighters battling against flames in what appeared to be a warehouse.</p>

<p>Reuters could not independently verify the reports. There was no immediate comment from Russia. Both Russia and Ukraine deny targeting civilians in their military operations.<br />
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Russian missiles struck civilian buildings in Ukraine's Black Sea port of Odesa overnight, killing at least three people and wounding 13, Ukraine's military said early on Wednesday.

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

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

Putin ponders if Russia should try to take Kyiv again

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

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

Russia claims it repelled attack by Ukraine on Black Sea warship

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

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

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

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

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

Ukraine dam collapse: Zelensky says world ‘shamefully indifferent’ to disaster

<p>The White House said on Friday (June 9) that Russia appeared to deepen its defence cooperation with Iran and this had resulted in it getting hundreds of Iranian drones which it was using to strike Ukraine.<br />
<br />
The White House cited newly declassified information. It said that the Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) built in Iran were being shipped across the Caspian Sea and were then being used by Russia against Ukraine.</p>

<p>"Russia has been using Iranian UAVs in recent weeks to strike Kyiv and terrorize the Ukrainian population, and the Russia-Iran military partnership appears to be deepening," White House spokesman John Kirby said in a statement.</p>

<p>"We are also concerned that Russia is working with Iran to produce Iranian UAVs from inside Russia."</p>

<p>Kirby said that the US was in possession of information that Russia was receiving materials from Iran which was required to build a drone manufacturing plant. This plant, said Kirby could be fully operational early next year.</p>

<p>"We are releasing satellite imagery of the planned location of this UAV manufacturing plant in Russia’s Alabuga Special Economic Zone," he said.</p>

<p>The US has previously sanctioned Iranian executives at a defence manufacturer over drone supplies to Russia. Iran has acknowledged sending drones to Russia but said in the past they were sent before Russia's February invasion. Moscow has denied its forces used Iranian drones in Ukraine. A White House official said Iran had transferred several hundred drones to Russia since August.</p>

<p>Kirby said that support between Iran and Russia was both ways. Iran is seeking billions of dollars worth of military equipment from Russia. This includes helicopters and radars.</p>

<p>"Russia has been offering Iran unprecedented defense cooperation, including on missiles, electronics, and air defense," he said.</p>

<p>"This is a full-scale defense partnership that is harmful to Ukraine, to Iran’s neighbors, and to the international community. We are continuing to use all the tools at our disposal to expose and disrupt these activities including by sharing this with the public – and we are prepared to do more."</p>

<h2><strong>Violation of UN rules&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Kirby said that drone transfer constituted violation of United Nations rules. He added that the US would seek to hold Russia and Iran accountable.</p>

<p>In addition to the US, countries like Britain, France, Germany and Ukraine say that supply of Iran-made drones to Russia violates a 2015 U.N. Security Council resolution enshrining the Iran nuclear deal.</p>

<p>Under the 2015 U.N. resolution, a conventional arms embargo on Iran was in place until October 2020.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The White House said on Friday (June 9) that Russia appeared to deepen its defence cooperation with Iran and this had resulted in it getting hundreds of Iranian drones which it was using to strike Ukraine.

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

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

<p>The largest Western companies still operating in Russia recorded a combined net profit of 1.1 trillion rubles ($13.3 billion) in 2022, according to a report by Novaya Gazeta Europe, the leading independent Russian news website. This represents a significant increase of 54 per cent&nbsp;compared to the previous year.</p>

<p>The findings were based on the financial statements of Russian-registered legal entities that are either fully or partially owned by the western entities.</p>

<p>In terms of corporate income taxes, Western companies contributed a total of 288 billion rubles ($3.5 billion) to Russia's budget revenue last year, amounting to 1 per cent&nbsp;of the total. French, British, and US companies were the largest taxpayers, with contributions of 55 billion, 47 billion, and 40 billion rubles, respectively.</p>

<h2>Western business in Russia amid Ukraine war: The scale</h2>

<p>Ukrainian researchers estimate that there are over 1,300 Western companies currently active in Russia, The Moscow Times reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-affects-russian-energy-giant-gazproms-profits-net-profit-down-by-414-in-2022-595729">Ukraine war affects Russian energy giant Gazprom's profits; net profit down by 41.4% in 2022</a></strong></p>

<p>However, more than 700 of these companies have suspended their operations, and 241 have completely exited the country after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<h2>Western business in Russia amid Ukraine war: Top winners</h2>

<p>Despite withdrawing from certain assets, French energy group TotalEnergies managed to double its net profit to 269 billion rubles ($3.2 billion).</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint: Who is profiting from Russia-Ukraine war?</strong></p>

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<p>Raiffeisen Bank, one of the major Western banks still present in Russia, nearly quadrupled its net profit to 141 billion rubles ($1.7 billion).</p>

<p>Among the top ten earners in Russia are well-known companies such as PepsiCo, British Petroleum, Japan Tobacco, Mondelez International (formerly Kraft Foods), Mars, the packaging giant Mondi, Kia, and the multinational building materials company Knauf.</p>

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The largest Western companies still operating in Russia recorded a combined net profit of 1.1 trillion rubles ($13.3 billion) in 2022, according to a report by Novaya Gazeta Europe, the leading independent Russian news website.

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

Russia earned billions in taxes after western companies made record profits amid Ukraine war

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

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

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

<p>The White House said on Tuesday (June 6) that it cannot ‘conclusively’ say what was behind the destruction of a massive dam in Ukraine. However, White House Spokesman John Kirby said that reports that the blast was caused by Russia were being assessed. Russia has been in occupation of the dam since last year.</p>

<p>Kirby noted that the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro River may likely have caused "many deaths" and evacuation of thousands of Ukrainians. Dnipro River separates Russian and Ukrainian forces in southern Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia's rare acknowledgment of losses</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Kirby told reporters the damage could have a devastating impact on Ukraine's energy security.</p>

<p>"We've seen the reports that Russia was responsible for the explosion at the dam," he said. "We're doing the best we can to assess those reports, and we are working with the Ukrainians to gather more information, but we cannot say conclusively what happened."</p>

<p>Ukraine has accused Russia of blowing up the Nova Kakhovka dam. Meanwhile, the Kremlin has claimed that it was Ukraine that sabotaged the dam.</p>

<p>Kyiv said the destruction of the dam — seized by Russia in the early hours of the war — was an attempt by Moscow to hamper its long-awaited offensive, which Ukraine's leader stressed would not be affected.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-russia-ukraine-war-nova-kakhovka-dam-attack-what-we-know-so-far-601391">Explained | What we know so far about the Nova Kakhovka dam attack in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>Kirby opined that it was too soon to discuss the effect of the development on Ukraine's long-planned counteroffensive. He did stress that Russian forces were in illegal occupation of the dam and were in control of it when the blast took place. However, Kirby said that US officials had not determined whether the blast was an intentional act.</p>

<h2><strong>Destruction of dam a war crime?</strong></h2>

<p>Asked if the destruction of the dam would constitute a war crime, Kirby said international law forbade the destruction of civilian infrastructure.</p>

<p>He said US officials would continue to work with humanitarian partners on the ground to supply aid to those affected.</p>

<p>Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24 last year. After sustained territorial gains in the first few months of the war, the Russian forces had to retreat in the face of the Ukrainian counteroffensive. Large swathes of land were won back by Ukrainian forces. As much as the credit goes to the fortitude of the Ukrainian military, the massive international help has been seen as a major factor that affected the situation on the battlefield.</p>

<p>Western countries, led by the United States, have poured in millions and millions in humanitarian as well as military help. This has boosted the military capacity of Ukraine.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The White House said on Tuesday (June 6) that it cannot ‘conclusively’ say what was behind the destruction of a massive dam in Ukraine. However, White House Spokesman John Kirby said that reports that the blast was caused by Russia were being assessed.

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

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

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

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

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