Has Ukraine become a testing ground for new-age Russian weapons? A viral video shows flaming munitions falling down in Ukraine's Vuhledar. What were they? Mohammed Saleh explains.

Gravitas: Ukraine becomes testing ground for new-age Russian weapons

Over 8 Million people have fled Ukraine taking along with them the future of the country, Ukraine's economy is tanking, and Russia is closing in. Who is responsible for the destruction of Ukraine? Putin or Zelensky?

Gravitas: The Battle for Bakhmut & the destruction of Ukraine

Russia on Tuesday extended the Black Sea grain deal, which facilitates safe passage to the Ukrainian agricultural exports, for another 60 days, the state-owned TASS news agency reported while citing the Russian deputy foreign minister Alexander Grushko.

Millions of tonnes of the food grains and other food products have been exported from war-torn Ukraine to parts of the world after the two warring sides signed a United Nations-backed Black Sea Grain Initiative in Turkey last year on July 22.&nbsp;

Earlier on Monday, Russia suggested renewing the deal as it coincided with the UN's&nbsp;pledge to do everything possible to ensure the agreement's integrity remained intact.

"Indeed, the deal has been extended.&nbsp;It has been agreed that it has been extended for 60 days," Grushko was quoted as saying by&nbsp;TASS.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/data-lab-whos-war-is-this-anyway-measuring-the-cost-of-the-russia-ukraine-war-one-year-on-565166">Data Lab: Whose war is this? Measuring the cost of the Russia-Ukraine war, one year on</a>

RIA news agency also cited Grushko as saying the deal had been extended.

Russia has said&nbsp;that, while its&nbsp;agricultural exports have not been explicitly targeted by the West, other economic sanctions have hit its ability&nbsp;to export its own grains and fertilisers.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;12 ships with over 350,000 tons of grain leave Ukrainian ports despite Russian pull-out

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Ukraine's infrastructure minister in an apparent admission to the Russian extension of the grain deal,&nbsp;said Monday that Russia's decision to extend the grain deal for 60 days went against the agreement, but did not reject Moscow's proposal.

"(The grain) agreement involves at least 120 days of extension, therefore Russia's position to extend the deal only for 60 days contradicts the document signed by Turkey and the UN," Oleksandr Kubrakov said on Twitter, adding: "We are&nbsp;waiting for the official position of the UN and Turkey as the guarantors of the initiative."

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Russia on Tuesday extended the Black Sea grain deal, which facilitates safe passage to the Ukrainian agricultural exports, for another 60 days, the state-owned TASS news agency reported while citing the Russian deputy foreign minister Alexander Grushko.

Russia on Tuesday extended the Black Sea grain deal, which facilitates safe passage to the Ukrainian agricultural exports, for another 60 days, the state-owned TASS news agency reported while citing the Russian deputy foreign minister Alexander Grushko. Millions of tonnes of the food grains and other food products have been exported from war-torn Ukraine to parts of the world after the two warring sides signed a United Nations-backed Black Sea Grain Initiative in Turkey last year on July 22. Earlier on Monday, Russia suggested renewing the deal as it coincided with the UN's pledge to do everything possible to ensure the agreement's integrity remained intact. "Indeed, the deal has been extended. It has been agreed that it has been extended for 60 days," Grushko was quoted as saying by TASS. ALSO READ | Data Lab: Whose war is this? Measuring the cost of the Russia-Ukraine war, one year on RIA news agency also cited Grushko as saying the deal had been extended. Russia has said that, while its agricultural exports have not been explicitly targeted by the West, other economic sanctions have hit its ability to export its own grains and fertilisers. ALSO WATCH | 12 ships with over 350,000 tons of grain leave Ukrainian ports despite Russian pull-out × Ukraine's infrastructure minister in an apparent admission to the Russian extension of the grain deal, said Monday that Russia's decision to extend the grain deal for 60 days went against the agreement, but did not reject Moscow's proposal. "(The grain) agreement involves at least 120 days of extension, therefore Russia's position to extend the deal only for 60 days contradicts the document signed by Turkey and the UN," Oleksandr Kubrakov said on Twitter, adding: "We are waiting for the official position of the UN and Turkey as the guarantors of the initiative." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia extends Black Sea grain deal for another 60 days: State media

A Russian strike in Ukraine's Kherson city on Saturday (March 11) killed three people and injured two others. According to Oleksandr Prokudin, the head of Kherson's regional military administration, the casualties occurred when a car was hit by a shell and caught fire, the news agency AFP reported.

A Russian strike in Ukraine's Kherson city on Saturday (March 11) killed three people and injured two others. According to Oleksandr Prokudin, the head of Kherson's regional military administration, the casualties occurred when a car was hit by a shell and caught fire, the news agency AFP reported. Taking to Telegram, Andriy Yermak, the head of Ukraine's presidential office posted a photograph of firefighters standing next to the charred car. "Russian terrorists are shelling Kherson again," Andriy Yermak said. Kherson is among the four regions along with Donetsk, Lugansk and Zaporizhzhia — that Russia claims to have annexed but still does not fully control. Despite Moscow retreating from Kherson late last year, it continues to pound the city. ALSO READ | Russia pummels Ukraine with hypersonic missiles in latest barrage Saturday's strike comes two days after Russia fired a huge wave of missiles across Ukraine on Thursday, killing at least nine civilians and knocking out power. According to Kyiv, this attack included six Kinzhal hypersonic cruise missiles, which are one of Moscow's most valuable weapons. Battle for Bakhmut rages on On Saturday, three Mi-8 helicopter gunships of the Ukrainian military unleashed strikes on Russian targets near Bakhmut. Speaking to AFP, one of the pilots said that the targets were an enemy fortification line made up of troops on the ground, armoured vehicles, and a munitions depot. The fortification lies near Severodonetsk, which the Russian army seized last year, to the northeast of Bakhmut. Earlier on Saturday, an aide to President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukraine decided to fight in Bakhmut as the battle was pinning down Russia's best units and degrading them. Meanwhile, the Russian mercenary group Wagner said that its forces were close to the centre of the frontline hotspot in the Ukrainian city. In a video posted on Telegram, Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin is seen standing on a roof of a high-rise building in what is said to be Bakhmut. "This is the building of the town administration, this is the centre of the town. It is one kilometre and two hundred metres away," Prigozhin said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine war: Russian strike in Kherson kills three; battle for Bakhmut rages on

The United Kingdom Defence Ministry in the latest has said that Bakhmut has become a 'killing zone', that has become highly challenging for Russia's Wagner mercenary. In the latest, the Wagner Group forces has taken control of most of Eastern Bakhmut.

Russia Ukraine War: Battle for Bakhmut intensifies; Russian shelling kills Kherson residents

The anti-government protest in Czech Republic is not ignited by any domestic policy but because of the European nation's support to Ukraine amid Russian invasion and the economic fallout of this war. The protest adds to the evidence of growing exertion with the year-long war.

Protest in Czech Republic against military aid to Ukraine, protesters chant 'Stop War, Stop NATO'

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. 
 
Both Russia and Ukraine claimed heavy casualties of enemy troops running into hundreds in a day during the battle for the Bakhmut city in the eastern part of the country.

Ukrainian military spokesperson Serhiy Cherevatyi claimed that 221 pro-Moscow troops were neutralised and more than 300 wounded in Bakhmut.

On the other hand, Russia's defence ministry alleged that about 210 Ukrainian soldiers were killed in the broader Donetsk part of the frontline, reports Reuters news agency.

"Over the course of the fighting, 221 enemies were killed and 314 sustained injuries of various degrees," Cherevatyi told the national parliament's television channel.

Both sides admitted to suffering and inflicting significant losses in Bakhmut, while the exact number of casualties is difficult to verify independently.

Over the past few months, Russia has been deploying a heavy amount of troops to Bakhmut in the hope&nbsp;of capturing the city as it desperately seeks a win after a series of setbacks. The Russian troops are being assisted by the mercenary Wagner Group, which has claimed to have taken control of the majority parts of the city.

<h2>Gravitas Plus: Explained: The Battle for Bakhmut</h2>

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Ukraine asserted that it was stalling Russian advances in Bakhmut and was giving a "decent rebuff", with the commander in charge of defending Bakhmut saying its protection was key for a Ukrainian counter-strike.

"It is necessary to gain time to accumulate reserves and start a counter-offensive, which is not far off," the military cited Colonel general Oleksandr Syrskyi as saying on Saturday, according to Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-likely-to-attend-g20-summit-in-india-report-570868">Russian President Vladimir Putin likely to attend G20 summit in India: Report</a>

Russia believes that capturing Bakhmut would deal a heavy blow to the Ukrainian defences and be a step towards seizing all of the Donbas industrial region, a major target. Kyiv says the battle is&nbsp;grinding&nbsp;down Russia's best units.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russian-strike-in-kherson-kills-three-battle-for-bakhmut-rages-on-570951">Ukraine war: Russian strike in Kherson kills three; battle for Bakhmut rages on</a>

British intelligence said that "this area has become a killing zone, likely making it highly challenging for Wagner forces attempting to continue their frontal assault westward."

But the situation remained dangerous for Ukrainian forces.

"The Ukrainian force and their supply lines to the west remain vulnerable to the continued Russian attempts to outflank the defenders from the north and south," it said.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Both Russia and Ukraine claimed heavy casualties of enemy troops running into hundreds in a day during the battle for the Bakhmut city in the eastern part of the country. Ukrainian military spokesperson Serhiy Cherevatyi claimed that 221 pro-Moscow troops were neutralised and more than 300 wounded in Bakhmut. On the other hand, Russia's defence ministry alleged that about 210 Ukrainian soldiers were killed in the broader Donetsk part of the frontline, reports Reuters news agency. "Over the course of the fighting, 221 enemies were killed and 314 sustained injuries of various degrees," Cherevatyi told the national parliament's television channel. Both sides admitted to suffering and inflicting significant losses in Bakhmut, while the exact number of casualties is difficult to verify independently. Over the past few months, Russia has been deploying a heavy amount of troops to Bakhmut in the hope of capturing the city as it desperately seeks a win after a series of setbacks. The Russian troops are being assisted by the mercenary Wagner Group, which has claimed to have taken control of the majority parts of the city. Gravitas Plus: Explained: The Battle for Bakhmut Ukraine asserted that it was stalling Russian advances in Bakhmut and was giving a "decent rebuff", with the commander in charge of defending Bakhmut saying its protection was key for a Ukrainian counter-strike. "It is necessary to gain time to accumulate reserves and start a counter-offensive, which is not far off," the military cited Colonel general Oleksandr Syrskyi as saying on Saturday, according to Reuters. Also read | Russian President Vladimir Putin likely to attend G20 summit in India: Report Russia believes that capturing Bakhmut would deal a heavy blow to the Ukrainian defences and be a step towards seizing all of the Donbas industrial region, a major target. Kyiv says the battle is grinding down Russia's best units. Also read | Ukraine war: Russian strike in Kherson kills three; battle for Bakhmut rages on British intelligence said that "this area has become a killing zone, likely making it highly challenging for Wagner forces attempting to continue their frontal assault westward." But the situation remained dangerous for Ukrainian forces. "The Ukrainian force and their supply lines to the west remain vulnerable to the continued Russian attempts to outflank the defenders from the north and south," it said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine, Russia claim hundreds of rival casualties in battle of Bakhmut

Russian forces have made progress in their campaign to capture the city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine - the focus of the war’s longest ground battle--- but their assault will be difficult to sustain without more significant personnel losses, this is according to British military officials. The U.K. Defense Ministry said in its latest assessment that military units from the kremlin-controlled Wagner group have seized most of eastern Bakhmut, with a river flowing through the city now marking the front line of the fighting. What does this advance by Russia mean for the war? WION's Eric Njoka speaks to Maj. John Spencer (Retd) who is the chairman of Urban Warfare Studies, Madison Policy Forum.

Determination by Russia to capture Bakhmut

Surprising everyone in the two warring nations and elsewhere around, the chief of the Russian mercenary group Wagner revealed his political ambitions and declared his intentions to run for Ukraine's President in 2024. In a video going viral on social media, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced his "political ambitions" for next year and said that he has "decided to run for president in 2024."

In the video, Prigozhin, who is dressed in combat gear, can be seen addressing the camera from an unknown location. Gunfire can be heard in the background, as he says, "I'm making a political coming out. Looking at everything around me, I've got political ambitions. I decided to run for president in 2024. For President of Ukraine."

Watch |&nbsp;Wagner Chief: Our men running short of ammunition | Battle of Bakhmut

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He goes on to add if he defeated incumbent Volodymyr Zelensky and his predecessor, Petro Poroshenko, "everything will be fine."

"If I win the presidential elections of Ukraine, then everything will be fine, guys, the shells will not be needed."&nbsp;

Watch the video here:

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⚡️In 2024 I will run for the presidency of Ukraine — head of Wagner PMC Yevgeny Prigozhin <a href="https://t.co/C0Ni5FMKVx">pic.twitter.com/C0Ni5FMKVx</a>
— War Monitor (@WarMonitors) <a href="https://twitter.com/WarMonitors/status/1634530100640206848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ordinary-bureaucracy-or-a-betrayal-wagner-chief-says-without-fresh-ammunition-bakhmut-could-collapse-569053">'Ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal?': Wagner chief says without promised ammunition, Bakhmut could collapse</a>

As per reports, this could be a dig at Moscow's failure to supply the mercenary group with ammunition. The Wagner chief has in recent days repeatedly brought up the ammunition issue.

The Wagner chief has for some time been at odds with the Russian military chiefs, including Defence Minister Sergey Shoygu and head of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov. He has questioned their competence and has voiced his suspicions of the ministry's "jealousy" for the success of his mercenary troops.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russian-strike-in-kherson-kills-three-battle-for-bakhmut-rages-on-570951">Ukraine war: Russian strike in Kherson kills three; battle for Bakhmut rages on</a> 
 
Recently, Prigozhin accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of cutting him off completely and said that he has been unable to get through to anyone at the Kremlin. 
 
Prigozhin said on his Telegram channel, “To get me to stop asking for ammunition, all the hotlines to offices, to departments etc have been cut off from me. But the real humdinger is that they’ve also blocked agencies from making decisions [related to Wagner].”

Just last week, he had warned that unless his troops are fortified with ammunition, Moscow's position in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is in peril. Reportedly, Moscow has failed to keep its promise to deliver ammunition to Wagner. In February, Prigozhin as per Reuters even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason".

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Surprising everyone in the two warring nations and elsewhere around, the chief of the Russian mercenary group Wagner revealed his political ambitions and declared his intentions to run for Ukraine's President in 2024.

Surprising everyone in the two warring nations and elsewhere around, the chief of the Russian mercenary group Wagner revealed his political ambitions and declared his intentions to run for Ukraine's President in 2024. In a video going viral on social media, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced his "political ambitions" for next year and said that he has "decided to run for president in 2024." In the video, Prigozhin, who is dressed in combat gear, can be seen addressing the camera from an unknown location. Gunfire can be heard in the background, as he says, "I'm making a political coming out. Looking at everything around me, I've got political ambitions. I decided to run for president in 2024. For President of Ukraine." Watch | Wagner Chief: Our men running short of ammunition | Battle of Bakhmut He goes on to add if he defeated incumbent Volodymyr Zelensky and his predecessor, Petro Poroshenko, "everything will be fine." "If I win the presidential elections of Ukraine, then everything will be fine, guys, the shells will not be needed." Watch the video here: ⚡️In 2024 I will run for the presidency of Ukraine — head of Wagner PMC Yevgeny Prigozhin pic.twitter.com/C0Ni5FMKVx — War Monitor (@WarMonitors) March 11, 2023 × Also read | 'Ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal?': Wagner chief says without promised ammunition, Bakhmut could collapse As per reports, this could be a dig at Moscow's failure to supply the mercenary group with ammunition. The Wagner chief has in recent days repeatedly brought up the ammunition issue. The Wagner chief has for some time been at odds with the Russian military chiefs, including Defence Minister Sergey Shoygu and head of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov. He has questioned their competence and has voiced his suspicions of the ministry's "jealousy" for the success of his mercenary troops. Also read | Ukraine war: Russian strike in Kherson kills three; battle for Bakhmut rages on Recently, Prigozhin accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of cutting him off completely and said that he has been unable to get through to anyone at the Kremlin. Prigozhin said on his Telegram channel, “To get me to stop asking for ammunition, all the hotlines to offices, to departments etc have been cut off from me. But the real humdinger is that they’ve also blocked agencies from making decisions [related to Wagner].” Just last week, he had warned that unless his troops are fortified with ammunition, Moscow's position in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is in peril. Reportedly, Moscow has failed to keep its promise to deliver ammunition to Wagner. In February, Prigozhin as per Reuters even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason". (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.

Russian mercenary group Wagner’s chief reveals ‘political ambitions’, to run for Ukraine’s president in 2024

Former US President Donald Trump claimed that if he was in power,&nbsp;he would have "made a deal" to allow Russia to take over parts of Ukrainian territory if that's what it took to end the war in Ukraine.

But Trump said that it would have been an "at worst" scenario. The former US president said that the Russian President Vladimir Putin would not have launched military offensive against Ukraine if he had been in power.

"Don’t forget, under Bush they take over Georgia, under Obama they took over Crimea. And, under Biden, they are&nbsp;taking over everything. It looks like they are&nbsp;going to take over everything, the whole thing, they are&nbsp;going to go for the whole enchilada, they are&nbsp;going for everything, that’s what it looks like to me,"&nbsp;Trump said in&nbsp;Sean Hannity’s radio show.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/letters-to-trump-from-rich-and-famous-set-to-release-next-month-570404">'Letters to Trump' from rich and famous set to release next month</a>

"And, under Trump, you know what they took over? They took nothing, Russia. First time, first president in a long time. He [Putin] understood. He would have never done it."

Trump added: "That’s without even negotiating a deal. I could have negotiated. At worst, I could have made a deal to take over something, you know, there are certain areas that are Russian speaking areas, right, like, but you could have worked a deal. And now Ukraine is just being blown to smithereens."

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Former US President Donald Trump files lawsuit against Jan 6 committee

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Donald Trump has repeatedly said in past that if he had been re-elected to the White House in 2020, the war in Ukraine could have been prevented without providing any prospective evidence for the same.

Trump has also said that he could end the current war in "no longer than one day"&nbsp;if he was the US president.&nbsp;

Trump's latest comment come as the US House speaker Kevin McCarthy declined an invitation from the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to visit Kyiv.

McCarthy said: "I will continue to get my briefings and others, but I don’t have to go to Ukraine or Kyiv to see it."

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Former US President Donald Trump claimed that if he was in power, he would have "made a deal" to allow Russia to take over parts of Ukrainian territory if that's what it took to end the war in Ukraine.

Former US President Donald Trump claimed that if he was in power, he would have "made a deal" to allow Russia to take over parts of Ukrainian territory if that's what it took to end the war in Ukraine. But Trump said that it would have been an "at worst" scenario. The former US president said that the Russian President Vladimir Putin would not have launched military offensive against Ukraine if he had been in power. "Don’t forget, under Bush they take over Georgia, under Obama they took over Crimea. And, under Biden, they are taking over everything. It looks like they are going to take over everything, the whole thing, they are going to go for the whole enchilada, they are going for everything, that’s what it looks like to me," Trump said in Sean Hannity’s radio show. ALSO READ | 'Letters to Trump' from rich and famous set to release next month "And, under Trump, you know what they took over? They took nothing, Russia. First time, first president in a long time. He [Putin] understood. He would have never done it." Trump added: "That’s without even negotiating a deal. I could have negotiated. At worst, I could have made a deal to take over something, you know, there are certain areas that are Russian speaking areas, right, like, but you could have worked a deal. And now Ukraine is just being blown to smithereens." ALSO WATCH | Former US President Donald Trump files lawsuit against Jan 6 committee × Donald Trump has repeatedly said in past that if he had been re-elected to the White House in 2020, the war in Ukraine could have been prevented without providing any prospective evidence for the same. Trump has also said that he could end the current war in "no longer than one day" if he was the US president. Trump's latest comment come as the US House speaker Kevin McCarthy declined an invitation from the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to visit Kyiv. McCarthy said: "I will continue to get my briefings and others, but I don’t have to go to Ukraine or Kyiv to see it." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Donald Trump makes extreme claims, says Russia will take over 'everything' in Ukraine

Russia has fired at least six hypersonic missiles into Ukraine. These missiles are called Kinzhals or daggers, and they are capable of carrying nuclear weapons. Is Russia exhibiting signs of desperation? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas | Battle for Bakhmut: Russia uses hypersonic missiles in Ukraine

Russia showered major cities across Ukraine with Kinzhal hypersonic cruise missiles as it unleashed its largest missile barrage against Kyiv in three weeks.

Russia launches Kinzhal hypersonic cruise missiles on Ukraine

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of G20 meet were "constructive" but that the US said nothing new. Both leaders met during the G20 foreign ministers' meeting in India last week. Russia and US are at two opposite ends of political manoeuvres especially after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February last year.&nbsp;

Lavrov was speaking during an interview on Russian state TV. He said that he spoke with Blinken for 10 minutes and both of them discussed nuclear arms issues and the conflict in Ukraine. This was the first meeting between the two leaders since the Russian invasion.

"We spoke constructively, without emotions, we shook hands," Lavrov said.

"Everything I heard was a position that has already been expressed and underlined in public many times before. I gave my honest, detailed assessment about the New START treaty, and why we saw it necessary to suspend it," he said.

Last month, Russian President Vladimir Putin suspended Russian participation in the new START nuclear arms treaty. He accused the US of trying to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia in the Ukraine conflict. 
 
Russia said on Friday it was still in contact with Washington over the treaty, but held out little prospect of returning to it.

Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24 last year. After sustained gains in the first months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat in face of Ukrainian counter-offensive. Russian&nbsp;forces are currently trying very hard to capture the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of G20 meet were "constructive" but that the US said nothing new.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of G20 meet were "constructive" but that the US said nothing new. Both leaders met during the G20 foreign ministers' meeting in India last week. Russia and US are at two opposite ends of political manoeuvres especially after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February last year. Lavrov was speaking during an interview on Russian state TV. He said that he spoke with Blinken for 10 minutes and both of them discussed nuclear arms issues and the conflict in Ukraine. This was the first meeting between the two leaders since the Russian invasion. "We spoke constructively, without emotions, we shook hands," Lavrov said. "Everything I heard was a position that has already been expressed and underlined in public many times before. I gave my honest, detailed assessment about the New START treaty, and why we saw it necessary to suspend it," he said. Last month, Russian President Vladimir Putin suspended Russian participation in the new START nuclear arms treaty. He accused the US of trying to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia in the Ukraine conflict. Russia said on Friday it was still in contact with Washington over the treaty, but held out little prospect of returning to it. Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24 last year. After sustained gains in the first months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat in face of Ukrainian counter-offensive. Russian forces are currently trying very hard to capture the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Talks with Blinken at G20 ‘constructive’ but US said nothing new: Lavrov

The United States is purportedly refraining from sharing the American intelligence with the International Criminal Court (ICC) on "war crimes" allegedly committed by Russia during the ongoing war in Ukraine, New York Times reported.

The report cited current and former officials that the U.S. Department of Defense has held back from sharing evidence on acts, which it said were "war crimes", for the reason that it may act as a precedent that could impact US soldiers involved in wars on foreign lands in the future.

<h2>Joe Biden to take final call: Report</h2>

The report said that the US National Security Council, in its February 3 meeting, sought to find solution to the conflict. But the defence secretary Lloyd Austin was reportedly adamant to not inform the International Criminal Court (ICC) of the Russian actions in Ukraine based on the US intelligence reports from the region. The situation remains at a deadlock with the US President Joe Biden yet to make&nbsp;a decision on it.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-russia-ukraine-war-belarus-fully-supports-beijings-peace-plan-567256">Russia-Ukraine war: Belarus 'fully' supports Beijing's peace plan</a>

GOP senator Lindsey Graham, who was a part of the congressional resolution that called for US support to International Criminal Court&nbsp;over war in Ukraine, held the Pentagon responsible for blocking vital intel. “DoD [Department of Defence] opposed the legislative change – it passed overwhelmingly – and they are now trying to undermine the letter and spirit of the law. It seems to me that DoD is the problem child here, and the sooner we can get the information into the hands of the ICC, the better off the world will be," Graham said.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Russia rejects International Criminal Court's jurisdiction over probe into war crimes in Ukraine

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The Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, was partly formulated by the United States. This, finally became a 1998 treaty&nbsp;that established the International Criminal Court.

The US officials, at present&nbsp;remain divided, on utilising the statute amid ongoing war in Ukraine. They argue that in the future, the US adversaries can prosecute American troops utilising the same. One of the safeguards mentioned&nbsp;in the statute point out that the ICC will only exercise its power if a suspect's home country fail to carry out prosecution. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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The United States is purportedly refraining from sharing the American intelligence with the International Criminal Court (ICC) on "war crimes" allegedly committed by Russia during the ongoing war in Ukraine, New York Times reported.

The United States is purportedly refraining from sharing the American intelligence with the International Criminal Court (ICC) on "war crimes" allegedly committed by Russia during the ongoing war in Ukraine, New York Times reported. The report cited current and former officials that the U.S. Department of Defense has held back from sharing evidence on acts, which it said were "war crimes", for the reason that it may act as a precedent that could impact US soldiers involved in wars on foreign lands in the future. Joe Biden to take final call: Report The report said that the US National Security Council, in its February 3 meeting, sought to find solution to the conflict. But the defence secretary Lloyd Austin was reportedly adamant to not inform the International Criminal Court (ICC) of the Russian actions in Ukraine based on the US intelligence reports from the region. The situation remains at a deadlock with the US President Joe Biden yet to make a decision on it. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war: Belarus 'fully' supports Beijing's peace plan GOP senator Lindsey Graham, who was a part of the congressional resolution that called for US support to International Criminal Court over war in Ukraine, held the Pentagon responsible for blocking vital intel. “DoD [Department of Defence] opposed the legislative change – it passed overwhelmingly – and they are now trying to undermine the letter and spirit of the law. It seems to me that DoD is the problem child here, and the sooner we can get the information into the hands of the ICC, the better off the world will be," Graham said. ALSO WATCH | Russia rejects International Criminal Court's jurisdiction over probe into war crimes in Ukraine × The Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, was partly formulated by the United States. This, finally became a 1998 treaty that established the International Criminal Court. The US officials, at present remain divided, on utilising the statute amid ongoing war in Ukraine. They argue that in the future, the US adversaries can prosecute American troops utilising the same. One of the safeguards mentioned in the statute point out that the ICC will only exercise its power if a suspect's home country fail to carry out prosecution. (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.

Pentagon refrains from sharing evidence of alleged Russian war crimes with international court. Here's why

The chief of the Wagner mercenaries Yevgeny Prigozhin who has gone round prisons, recruiting convicts to fight on the battlefields of Ukraine has made the battle of Bakhmut a prestige issue. Recently, Yevgeny Prigozhin complained about not getting enough ammunition to fight. Prigozhin has also criticised the tactics employed by the regular Russian forces. So Prigozhin's reputation and his clout in Moscow hinges on the fate of Bakhmut.

Why battle of Bakhmut can define the endgame of Ukraine war?

A Czech company producing inflatable weapon decoys, including Himars rocket launchers and Abrams tanks, said Monday it had seen a spike in demand since the Russian invasion of Ukraine started last year. The synthetic silk decoys inflated with an electric or petrol blower are used to fool the enemy on the battlefield, making them target the air-filled decoys instead of real weaponry.

How the art of deception is playing out in Russia-Ukraine war

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. 
 
As Russia claims it is inching closer to seizing control of the Bakhmut city in the east, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has ruled out withdrawing the troops from the besieged city, saying that such a move will allow Russian forces to capture key cities in eastern Ukraine.

“This is tactical for us,” Zelensky told CNN in an interview on Tuesday.

“We understand that after Bakhmut they could go further. They could go to Kramatorsk, they could go to Sloviansk, it would be an open road for the Russians after Bakhmut to other towns in Ukraine, in the Donetsk direction,” he was quoted as saying. “That’s why our guys are standing there.”

He stressed that Ukraine’s military will prolong its defence of the city despite Russia gaining an upper hand.

The eastern city has been witnessing&nbsp;months of intense fighting, as Russian mercenary Wagner Group and Russian troops have been trying&nbsp;to seize it. Ukraine has been valiantly maintaining its defence,&nbsp;and stalling advancement of the Russian troops.

<h2>Ukraine vows to keep defending Bakhmut amid constant attacks by Russian forces</h2>

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Ukraine's president and military commanders have agreed to strengthen their defence of Bakhmut.

The Ukrainian leader said that there is a reason why they are stationing their troops there. “We understand what Russia wants to achieve there. Russia needs at least some victory – a small victory – even by ruining everything in Bakhmut, just killing every civilian there.”

Zelensky said that if Russia is able to capture Bakhmut, then it would give a major boost to their confidence after facing series of setbacks. He said that it would help “mobilize their society in order to create this idea they’re such a powerful army.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-denies-involvement-in-nord-stream-pipelines-blast-569843">Ukraine denies involvement in Nord Stream pipelines blast</a>

Experts opine that Bakhmut holds little to no strategic significance for Russia. But they believe that fall of the eastern city would open doors to other cities like Kramatorsk and Sloviansk — two densely populated, industrial urban hubs to the northwest.

Responding to reports that some commanders and lower level officers have questioned the merit of holding Bakhmut amid a rising number of casualties, Zelensky said he has “never heard anything like that” from his commanders.

“We have to think about our people first and no one should be surrounded, encircled – this is very important,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. As Russia claims it is inching closer to seizing control of the Bakhmut city in the east, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has ruled out withdrawing the troops from the besieged city, saying that such a move will allow Russian forces to capture key cities in eastern Ukraine. “This is tactical for us,” Zelensky told CNN in an interview on Tuesday. “We understand that after Bakhmut they could go further. They could go to Kramatorsk, they could go to Sloviansk, it would be an open road for the Russians after Bakhmut to other towns in Ukraine, in the Donetsk direction,” he was quoted as saying. “That’s why our guys are standing there.” He stressed that Ukraine’s military will prolong its defence of the city despite Russia gaining an upper hand. The eastern city has been witnessing months of intense fighting, as Russian mercenary Wagner Group and Russian troops have been trying to seize it. Ukraine has been valiantly maintaining its defence, and stalling advancement of the Russian troops. Ukraine vows to keep defending Bakhmut amid constant attacks by Russian forces Ukraine's president and military commanders have agreed to strengthen their defence of Bakhmut. The Ukrainian leader said that there is a reason why they are stationing their troops there. “We understand what Russia wants to achieve there. Russia needs at least some victory – a small victory – even by ruining everything in Bakhmut, just killing every civilian there.” Zelensky said that if Russia is able to capture Bakhmut, then it would give a major boost to their confidence after facing series of setbacks. He said that it would help “mobilize their society in order to create this idea they’re such a powerful army.” Also read | Ukraine denies involvement in Nord Stream pipelines blast Experts opine that Bakhmut holds little to no strategic significance for Russia. But they believe that fall of the eastern city would open doors to other cities like Kramatorsk and Sloviansk — two densely populated, industrial urban hubs to the northwest. Responding to reports that some commanders and lower level officers have questioned the merit of holding Bakhmut amid a rising number of casualties, Zelensky said he has “never heard anything like that” from his commanders. “We have to think about our people first and no one should be surrounded, encircled – this is very important,” he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Won’t withdraw from Bakhmut,’ says Ukraine’s Zelensky with Russia on cusp of seizing control city

The head of the Russian mercenary group Wagner has warned that unless his troops are fortified with ammunition, Moscow's position in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is in peril. This, as per Reuters, can be seen as the latest sign of tensions between the Kremlin and the private militia chief. Ukrainian military officials and analysts too have reported reluctance on the part of Russia's 155th brigade leaders. Reportedly, after sustaining severe losses in fighting near the town of Vuhledar, south of Bakhmut, they are resisting orders to attack.

Watch |&nbsp;Russian forces surround Bakhmut; tide changes as Kyiv's hold weakens

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Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner chief, said that Russia's front lines could collapse if his forces did not receive the ammunition that Moscow had promised in February.

"For now, we are trying to figure out the reason: is it just ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal," said Prigozhin on Telegram. He was referring to the absence of ammunition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-begins-withdrawal-from-eastern-bakhmut-town-as-russia-gains-upper-hand-568405">Ukraine begins withdrawal from Bakhmut as Russia gains upper hand: Report</a>

"If Wagner retreats from Bakhmut now, the whole front will collapse," he said, adding "the situation will not be sweet for all military formations protecting Russian interests."

Prigozhin regularly criticises Russian defence chiefs and top generals. Reuters reports that in February he had even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/battle-for-bakhmut-rages-on-as-russian-forces-attempt-to-encircle-city-residents-flee-568971">Battle for Bakhmut rages on as Russian forces attempt to ‘encircle’ city; residents flee</a>

A Russian victory in Bakhmut could give Moscow its first major prize in a costly winter offensive. Russia has acknowledged the city's importance and calls it a stepping stone to completing the capture of the Donbas industrial region, one of Moscow's important objectives.

The fighting in the city and around "is very much hell-like, as it is on the entire eastern front," as per Volodymyr Nazarenko, a commander of Ukrainian troops in Bakhmut.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The head of the Russian mercenary group Wagner has warned that unless his troops are fortified with ammunition, Moscow's position in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is in peril.

The head of the Russian mercenary group Wagner has warned that unless his troops are fortified with ammunition, Moscow's position in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is in peril. This, as per Reuters, can be seen as the latest sign of tensions between the Kremlin and the private militia chief. Ukrainian military officials and analysts too have reported reluctance on the part of Russia's 155th brigade leaders. Reportedly, after sustaining severe losses in fighting near the town of Vuhledar, south of Bakhmut, they are resisting orders to attack. Watch | Russian forces surround Bakhmut; tide changes as Kyiv's hold weakens Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner chief, said that Russia's front lines could collapse if his forces did not receive the ammunition that Moscow had promised in February. "For now, we are trying to figure out the reason: is it just ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal," said Prigozhin on Telegram. He was referring to the absence of ammunition. Also read | Ukraine begins withdrawal from Bakhmut as Russia gains upper hand: Report "If Wagner retreats from Bakhmut now, the whole front will collapse," he said, adding "the situation will not be sweet for all military formations protecting Russian interests." Prigozhin regularly criticises Russian defence chiefs and top generals. Reuters reports that in February he had even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason". Also read | Battle for Bakhmut rages on as Russian forces attempt to ‘encircle’ city; residents flee A Russian victory in Bakhmut could give Moscow its first major prize in a costly winter offensive. Russia has acknowledged the city's importance and calls it a stepping stone to completing the capture of the Donbas industrial region, one of Moscow's important objectives. The fighting in the city and around "is very much hell-like, as it is on the entire eastern front," as per Volodymyr Nazarenko, a commander of Ukrainian troops in Bakhmut. (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.

'Ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal?': Wagner chief says without promised ammunition, Bakhmut could collapse

As tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate, South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor has called for peaceful negotiations to resolve the conflict. Drawing upon South Africa's own history of overcoming apartheid through negotiation, Pandor emphasized the importance of diplomacy and the role of the United Nations in promoting peace.

South Africa's Foreign Minister speaks to WION on India ties, Russia Ukraine conflict

Latvia's Deputy Foreign Minister, Dr Gunda Reire, in an exclusive conversation with WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, emphasised the gravity of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Calling the war an "existential threat" to the global world, she said that her country is committed to supporting Ukraine in this conflict as long as it takes. She also commented on the growing ties between India and Latvia.

WION: How do you see the relationship between the two countries?

Dr Gunda Reire: I must say that the relationship between India and Latvia relationship is very warm and very friendly. We are democracies; we support the rule of law and also international order based on the rule of law. India's students form the biggest part of foreign students in Latvia, and Indian culture and cuisine are very well known in our country.

Watch |&nbsp;Latvia's Deputy Foreign Minister Dr. Gunda Reire Speaks to WION on Russia Ukraine conflict

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WION: How has the Russia- Ukraine conflict impacted your country?

Dr Gunda Reire: We see it as an existential threat, not only to our country and Europe but also globally. &nbsp;Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine threatens the very basis of the international system based on the rules of law. This is the reason why we are supporting Ukraine with every possible means..we will do that as long as it takes. This is why we're advocating for global support for Ukraine and for imposing sanctions against Russia and this is the reason why I am here at the Raisina dialogue...to speak about to bring justice (to Ukraine).

WION: Your view about Indo-Pacific, how do you see your country's position on it?

Dr Gunda Reire: We are looking at the Indo-Pacific through the lens of the European Union. We are members of the EU and as we know, right now EU is looking for strategic vision and engagement with the Indo-Pacific region. India is the key partner in this relationship.
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Latvia's Deputy Foreign Minister, Dr Gunda Reire, in an exclusive conversation with WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, emphasised the gravity of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Latvia's Deputy Foreign Minister, Dr Gunda Reire, in an exclusive conversation with WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, emphasised the gravity of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Calling the war an "existential threat" to the global world, she said that her country is committed to supporting Ukraine in this conflict as long as it takes. She also commented on the growing ties between India and Latvia. WION: How do you see the relationship between the two countries? Dr Gunda Reire: I must say that the relationship between India and Latvia relationship is very warm and very friendly. We are democracies; we support the rule of law and also international order based on the rule of law. India's students form the biggest part of foreign students in Latvia, and Indian culture and cuisine are very well known in our country. Watch | Latvia's Deputy Foreign Minister Dr. Gunda Reire Speaks to WION on Russia Ukraine conflict WION: How has the Russia- Ukraine conflict impacted your country? Dr Gunda Reire: We see it as an existential threat, not only to our country and Europe but also globally. Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine threatens the very basis of the international system based on the rules of law. This is the reason why we are supporting Ukraine with every possible means..we will do that as long as it takes. This is why we're advocating for global support for Ukraine and for imposing sanctions against Russia and this is the reason why I am here at the Raisina dialogue...to speak about to bring justice (to Ukraine). WION: Your view about Indo-Pacific, how do you see your country's position on it? Dr Gunda Reire: We are looking at the Indo-Pacific through the lens of the European Union. We are members of the EU and as we know, right now EU is looking for strategic vision and engagement with the Indo-Pacific region. India is the key partner in this relationship. 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.

Latvia's Deputy Foreign Minister calls Russia-Ukraine war an 'existential threat' to the global world

Latvia's Deputy Foreign Minister, Dr. Gunda Reire, has emphasized the gravity of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, calling it an "existential threat." In an interview with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, she stated that her country is committed to supporting Ukraine in this conflict as long as it takes. Dr. Reire also commented on the growing ties between India and Latvia.

Latvia's Deputy Foreign Minister Dr. Gunda Reire Speaks to WION on Russia Ukraine conflict

Poland's Member of Parliament Władysław T. Bartoszewski has warned of the potential threat posed by the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Bartoszewski highlighted the importance of India's role in addressing the crisis. He emphasized that India's voice in the international community can play a significant role in curbing Russia's aggressive behavior.

Poland MP Władysław T. Bartoszewski speaks to WION on Russia Ukraine conflict

Ukraine MP Sviatoslav Yurash has spoken to WION and detailed the situation in his country. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he pointed to the role India can play. Sviatoslav Yurash, 27 years old is a member of Servant of the People party. He studied in Poland and in Kolkata. Sviatoslav Yurash, 27 years old is a member of Servant of the People party .He studied in Poland and in Kolkata.

Ukraine MP Sviatoslav Yurash speaks to WION on Russia Ukraine conflict

Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine is now the epicentre of the Russian-Ukraine battle. The Russian and Ukrainian forces are locked in a gruesome exchange battling through the streets of eastern city. After months of fighting, the tide is changing against Kiev.

Russian forces surround Bakhmut; tide changes as Kyiv's hold weakens

Ukraine has started withdrawing its troops from the embattled Bakhmut, as Russia inches closed to one of its major victories this year, Sky News reported.

Russia's Wagner private army chief Yevgeny Prigozhin in a video posted on social media said that only one road out of Bakhmut remains under Ukrainian control and called on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to abandon the city.

“Units of the private military company Wagner have practically surrounded Bakhmut,” Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin said, appearing in combat uniform in a video posted on Telegram.

“Only one route [out] is left,” he said. “The pincers are closing.”

A top Ukrainian presidential adviser told CNN on Tuesday that Kyiv was considering leaving the eastern city, which has been blasted to ruins by Russian artillery.

“So far they’ve held the city, but if need be, they will strategically pull back because we’re not going to sacrifice all of our people just for nothing,” Alexander Rodnyansky was quoted as saying.

<h2>Gravitas: Russia looks at its first major victory</h2>

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Bakhmut is located in Donetsk province—one of four provinces illegally annexed by Russia last fall. Kremlin controls half of the Donetsk province.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-support-kyiv-as-long-as-it-takes-joe-biden-and-olaf-scholz-vow-to-fight-russia-568356">'Will support Kyiv as long as it takes': US President Joe Biden &amp; German Chancellor Scholz vow Ukraine support</a>

In order to seize control of the remaining half of that province, Russian forces must pass through Bakhmut, which will then pave the way for bigger Ukrainian cities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-likely-to-run-out-of-money-next-year-claims-oligarch-oleg-deripaska-567969">&nbsp;Russia likely to run out of money next year, claims oligarch Oleg Deripaska</a>

This is the second Ukrainian city that has fallen to its foe Russia. In January, Moscow was able to take control of the salt mining town of Soledar through sheer force.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Ukraine has started withdrawing its troops from the embattled Bakhmut, as Russia inches closed to one of its major victories this year, Sky News reported. Russia's Wagner private army chief Yevgeny Prigozhin in a video posted on social media said that only one road out of Bakhmut remains under Ukrainian control and called on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to abandon the city.

Ukraine has started withdrawing its troops from the embattled Bakhmut, as Russia inches closed to one of its major victories this year, Sky News reported. Russia's Wagner private army chief Yevgeny Prigozhin in a video posted on social media said that only one road out of Bakhmut remains under Ukrainian control and called on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to abandon the city. “Units of the private military company Wagner have practically surrounded Bakhmut,” Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin said, appearing in combat uniform in a video posted on Telegram. “Only one route [out] is left,” he said. “The pincers are closing.” A top Ukrainian presidential adviser told CNN on Tuesday that Kyiv was considering leaving the eastern city, which has been blasted to ruins by Russian artillery. “So far they’ve held the city, but if need be, they will strategically pull back because we’re not going to sacrifice all of our people just for nothing,” Alexander Rodnyansky was quoted as saying. Gravitas: Russia looks at its first major victory Bakhmut is located in Donetsk province—one of four provinces illegally annexed by Russia last fall. Kremlin controls half of the Donetsk province. Also read | 'Will support Kyiv as long as it takes': US President Joe Biden & German Chancellor Scholz vow Ukraine support In order to seize control of the remaining half of that province, Russian forces must pass through Bakhmut, which will then pave the way for bigger Ukrainian cities. Also read | Russia likely to run out of money next year, claims oligarch Oleg Deripaska This is the second Ukrainian city that has fallen to its foe Russia. In January, Moscow was able to take control of the salt mining town of Soledar through sheer force. (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 begins withdrawal from Bakhmut as Russia gains upper hand: Report

The U.S. and Germany have worked closely to supply Ukraine with military and humanitarian assistance, but there has also been friction over issues such as providing tanks. Washington has occasionally grown frustrated with berlin's hesitance. Maintaining a steady flow of weapons to Kyiv will be critical in the war's second year, especially with both sides planning spring offensives. Meeting Scholz, Biden said the two nations are making the NATO alliance stronger, as the U.S. announced a new military aid package for Ukraine.

Ukraine to get tactical bridges to move tanks and armoured vehicles; Will China send arms to Russia?

The war in Ukraine is now in its second year, US and Germany have worked closely to supply Ukraine with military aid and monetary assistance. But there is also been an issue for providing tanks. Washington has occasionally grown frustrated with these demands.

US President Biden & Germany's Chancellor Scholz huddle on Ukraine war, vow to punish Russia

British military intelligence said on Saturday (March 4) that Ukrainian forces were under severe increasing pressure defending Bakhkmut against Russian attacks. Intense fighting is taking place in and around the city. Russian army, aided by private military troops from Wagner group have made advances in Bakhmut's northern suburbs. Ukraine is reinforcing the area with elite military troops, said British Defence Ministry in its daily intelligence bulletin.

Watch | Ukraine to get tactical bridges to move tanks and armoured vehicles; Will China send arms to Russia?

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Two key bridges in Bakhmut have been destroyed within the last 36 hours, it said, adding that Ukrainian-held resupply routes out of the city are increasingly limited.

One of those bridges connected Bakhmut to the city's last main supply route from the Ukrainian-held town of Chasiv Yar, about 13 km (eight miles) to the west, it said.

Ukraine's military command said Russia was still trying to surround Bakhmut but added that over the past day Ukrainian forces had beaten back Russian attacks in the city.

"The enemy does not cease attempts to surround Bakhmut," it said in its morning briefing note on Saturday, adding that over the past day Ukrainian forces had beaten back Russian attacks in Bakhmut.

Russian artillery pounded the last routes out of Bakhmut on Friday, aiming to complete the encirclement of the besieged city and bring Moscow closer to its first major victory in the war in six months.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-begins-withdrawal-from-eastern-bakhmut-town-as-russia-gains-upper-hand-568405">Ukraine begins withdrawal from Bakhmut as Russia gains upper hand: Report</a>

The Ukrainian briefing note also said that Russian attacks had been foiled in the villages of Ivanivske and Bohdanivka, both of which lie less than eight km (five miles) west of Bakhmut's city centre.

(With inputs from agencies)

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British military intelligence said on Saturday (March 4) that Ukrainian forces were under severe increasing pressure defending Bakhkmut against Russian attacks. Intense fighting is taking place in and around the city.

British military intelligence said on Saturday (March 4) that Ukrainian forces were under severe increasing pressure defending Bakhkmut against Russian attacks. Intense fighting is taking place in and around the city. Russian army, aided by private military troops from Wagner group have made advances in Bakhmut's northern suburbs. Ukraine is reinforcing the area with elite military troops, said British Defence Ministry in its daily intelligence bulletin. Watch | Ukraine to get tactical bridges to move tanks and armoured vehicles; Will China send arms to Russia? × Two key bridges in Bakhmut have been destroyed within the last 36 hours, it said, adding that Ukrainian-held resupply routes out of the city are increasingly limited. One of those bridges connected Bakhmut to the city's last main supply route from the Ukrainian-held town of Chasiv Yar, about 13 km (eight miles) to the west, it said. Ukraine's military command said Russia was still trying to surround Bakhmut but added that over the past day Ukrainian forces had beaten back Russian attacks in the city. "The enemy does not cease attempts to surround Bakhmut," it said in its morning briefing note on Saturday, adding that over the past day Ukrainian forces had beaten back Russian attacks in Bakhmut. Russian artillery pounded the last routes out of Bakhmut on Friday, aiming to complete the encirclement of the besieged city and bring Moscow closer to its first major victory in the war in six months. Also Read | Ukraine begins withdrawal from Bakhmut as Russia gains upper hand: Report The Ukrainian briefing note also said that Russian attacks had been foiled in the villages of Ivanivske and Bohdanivka, both of which lie less than eight km (five miles) west of Bakhmut's city centre. (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 forces under severe pressure defending Bakhmut, says UK

A steel plant in Ukraine's Kryvyi Rih city is making metal bunkers for its front-line troops. The bunkers are built to withstand projectiles with calibres of up to 152 millimetres.

A steel plant in Ukraine's Kryvyi Rih city is making metal bunkers for its front-line troops. The bunkers are built to withstand projectiles with calibres of up to 152 millimetres. They can accommodate up to six soldiers and need to be buried about five feet underground, a report by the news agency AP said. The project (to build the bunkers) has been launched by the Ukrainian mining and metals company Metinvest. Petro Zhuk, who manages the 40-person team building the bunkers, said that although the structures take 165 man-hours to produce, including prefabrication, his team can build one a day. Zhuk hoped that Ukrainian troops would find a measure of comfort in the bunkers. ALSO READ | US: Two Kansas men arrested for illegally exporting technology to Russia amid Ukraine war “While they are inside, they cannot worry about an attack that could happen while they are asleep. They can be warm and comfortable,” he added. Metinvest also owns the Azovstal Iron and Steel Works, a plant in Mariupol. When the city was under siege, civilians and soldiers sheltered at the plant and it became a symbol of resistance against Russian attacks. Speaking to local media, the company's chief executive officer (CEO) Yurii Ryzhenkov said that drawings for the bunkers were found in the company's archives when it was a Soviet enterprise. Back then, every plant had to produce something for the army, Ryzhenkov added. 'This is for victory of Ukraine' With Metinvest making bunkers for Ukrainian troops, the workers in the steel plant in Kryvyi Rih are happy that they are contributing to the resistance to Russia's offensive. Vitalii Yevzhenko, 54, a plant worker involved in assembling the bunkers, said he thinks what he and his colleagues are doing is very important. “This is for the victory of Ukraine. The sooner the war ends, the better it will be,” Yevzhenko said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine war: Steel plant builds six-person bunkers for front line troops

Russian troops and mercenaries rained artillery on the last access routes to the besieged Ukrainian city of Bakhmut on Friday, bringing Moscow closer to its first major victory in half a year after the bloodiest fighting of the war. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Russia looks at its first major victory

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