According to the reports, Israel is said to be providing Ukraine with intelligence to help them with intel on drones from Russia. The news comes as the Palestinian Authority President Abbas met with Russian President Putin and this was the first face-to-face meeting after Russia-Ukraine war.

Israel gives Ukraine intel on drones: Reports

French agribusiness Danone said Friday it planned to transfer control of its essential dairy and plant-based business in Russia, retaining only its infant nutrition branch.

One of the few multinationals to have remained in Russia after the invasion of Ukraine, Danone said the move to "transfer the effective control" of the dairy business could result in a write-off of up to one billion euros ($980 million).

The arm represented five per cent of Danone's net sales in 2022 so far.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia open for talks with Ukraine? Kremlin stresses on 'openness to talk'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-open-for-talks-with-ukraine-kremlin-stresses-on-openness-to-talk-525458/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Danone considers that this is the best option to ensure long-term local business continuity, for its employees, consumers and partners," the group said in a statement.

The transaction will be subject to the approval of authorities, the group added.

Danone will however retain the activities of its "specialised nutrition" arm, which includes infant milk.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-sees-no-need-for-talks-with-joe-biden-amid-growing-tensions-between-the-two-525508" hreflang="en">Putin sees 'no need' for talks with Biden amid growing tensions between Russia and US</a>

"Danone's priority remains to act responsibly and respectfully to its local employees, consumers, and partners throughout the process," the statement said Friday.

In March, the French group said it would continue its business in Russia, where it employs 8,000 people, as many international companies suspended operations in the wake of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

But in July,&nbsp;Danone spoke of the "extremely tense" operational conditions in Russia and Ukraine.

Multinational exodus

A large number of major western companies have pulled out of Russia in an exodus since Moscow invaded its pro-Western neighbour on February 24.

Starbucks and McDonald's were among the American corporations to announce their exit.

McDonald's -- which had employed 62,000 workers in Russia -- was bought by Russian businessman Alexander Govor and renamed "Vkusno i tochka" ("Delicious. Full Stop").

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-begins-evacuation-of-civilians-from-kherson-in-ukraine-525227" hreflang="en">Russia begins evacuation of civilians from Kherson in Ukraine</a>

The Russian operations of Starbucks were also bought and reopened with a new name and logo.

Denmark's Lego, the world's largest toymaker, said in July that it would "indefinitely cease commercial operations" in Russia, ending its partnership with the retail group that operated 81 stores on the brand's behalf.

French automaker Renault left the country in May, handing over its assets in the country to the Russian government.

Other firms to wind down their Russian business include clothing brands Nike, Adidas and H&amp;M, Swedish furniture giant Ikea, and US tech giant Cisco.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

French agribusiness Danone said Friday it planned to transfer control of its essential dairy and plant-based business in Russia, retaining only its infant nutrition branch.

French agribusiness Danone said Friday it planned to transfer control of its essential dairy and plant-based business in Russia, retaining only its infant nutrition branch. One of the few multinationals to have remained in Russia after the invasion of Ukraine, Danone said the move to "transfer the effective control" of the dairy business could result in a write-off of up to one billion euros ($980 million). The arm represented five per cent of Danone's net sales in 2022 so far. Watch | Russia open for talks with Ukraine? Kremlin stresses on 'openness to talk' "Danone considers that this is the best option to ensure long-term local business continuity, for its employees, consumers and partners," the group said in a statement. The transaction will be subject to the approval of authorities, the group added. Danone will however retain the activities of its "specialised nutrition" arm, which includes infant milk. Also read | Putin sees 'no need' for talks with Biden amid growing tensions between Russia and US "Danone's priority remains to act responsibly and respectfully to its local employees, consumers, and partners throughout the process," the statement said Friday. In March, the French group said it would continue its business in Russia, where it employs 8,000 people, as many international companies suspended operations in the wake of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. But in July, Danone spoke of the "extremely tense" operational conditions in Russia and Ukraine. Multinational exodus A large number of major western companies have pulled out of Russia in an exodus since Moscow invaded its pro-Western neighbour on February 24. Starbucks and McDonald's were among the American corporations to announce their exit. McDonald's -- which had employed 62,000 workers in Russia -- was bought by Russian businessman Alexander Govor and renamed "Vkusno i tochka" ("Delicious. Full Stop"). Also read | Russia begins evacuation of civilians from Kherson in Ukraine The Russian operations of Starbucks were also bought and reopened with a new name and logo. Denmark's Lego, the world's largest toymaker, said in July that it would "indefinitely cease commercial operations" in Russia, ending its partnership with the retail group that operated 81 stores on the brand's behalf. French automaker Renault left the country in May, handing over its assets in the country to the Russian government. Other firms to wind down their Russian business include clothing brands Nike, Adidas and H&M, Swedish furniture giant Ikea, and US tech giant Cisco. 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.

Danone plans to withdraw from its businesses in Russia, write-off up to $980 million

In the last two weeks the situation on ground has been shifting rapidly. Russia has escalated its offensive firing a barrage of missiles at Ukrainian towns and cities while Ukrainian troops are countering Moscow's attacks by reclaiming towns and villages that has been occupied by Russian troops.

Russia open for talks with Ukraine? Kremlin stresses on 'openness to talk'

Russian missiles pounded more than 40 Ukrainian cities and towns, officials said on Thursday, after a U.N. General Assembly resolution called Moscow's annexation of Ukrainian territory "illegal" and Ukraine's allies committed more military aid.

Russia repeated its position that the West, by helping Ukraine, indicated that "they are a direct party to the conflict" and warned the admission of Ukraine to NATO could trigger World War Three.

"Kyiv is well aware that such a step would mean a guaranteed escalation to a World War Three," deputy secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, Alexander Venediktov, told the state TASS news agency on Thursday.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;announced a surprise bid for fast-track membership of the NATO military alliance at the end of September after Russian President Vladimir Putin held a ceremony in Moscow to proclaim four partially occupied regions as annexed Russian land.

In the past 24 hours, Russian missiles hit more than 40 settlements, while Ukraine's air force carried out 32 strikes on 25 Russian targets, Ukraine's Armed Forces General Staff said.

Mayor of the port city of Mykolaiv, Oleksandr Senkevich, said in a social media post that the southern city was "massively shelled".

"A five-storey residential building was hit, the two upper floors were completely destroyed, the rest – under rubble. Rescuers are working on the site,” he said.

A shipbuilding centre and a port on the Southern Bug river off the Black Sea, Mykolaiv has suffered heavy Russian bombardments throughout the war.

Russia also targeted a settlement in the region of Ukraine's capital Kyiv using explosive drones early on Thursday, the region's administration said on the Telegram messaging app.

Governor of the Kyiv region, Oleksiy Kuleba, said, based on preliminary information, the strikes were caused by Iranian-made loitering munitions. These are often known as "kamikaze drones".

Critical infrastructure facilities were hit by the drones, said Kyrylo Tymoshenko, the deputy head of Zelenskyy's office.

Missiles struck more than 30 multi-storey and private houses, gas pipelines and power lines in the city of Nikopol in the Dnipropetrovsk region, and more than 2,000 families were left without electricity, Dnipropetrovsk Governor Valentyn Reznichenko wrote on Telegram.

Reuters was not able to immediately verify the report.

NATO's secretary-general, Jens Stoltenberg, said Russia's missile attacks were a sign of weakness. "Russia is actually losing on the battlefield," Stoltenberg said.

As his forces have lost ground since September, Putin has intensified the conflict, ordering the call-up of hundreds of thousands of reservists, proclaiming the annexation of occupied Ukrainian territory and repeatedly threatening to use nuclear weapons to protect Russia.

Putin has threatened to use nuclear weapons to protect Russian soil, which he says includes the four regions he declared annexed last month.

U.S. President Joe Biden said on Wednesday he doubted Putin would resort to nuclear weapons. A senior NATO official said a Russian nuclear strike would almost certainly trigger a "physical response"from Ukraine's allies and potentially NATO.

UN condemns Russia

In New York, three-quarters of the 193-member General Assembly - 143 countries - voted on Wednesday in favour of a resolution condemning Russia's "attempted illegal annexation" of the four partially occupied regions.

Only four countries joined Russia in voting against the resolution - Syria, Nicaragua, North Korea and Belarus. Thirty-five countries abstained from the vote, including Russia's strategic partner China, while the rest did not vote.

Moscow in September proclaimed its annexation of four partially occupied regions in Ukraine - Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia - after staging what it called referendums.

Zelenskyy said on Twitter he was "grateful to 143 states that supported the historic #UNGA resolution ...(Russia's) attempt at annexation is worthless."

In Brussels, more than 50 Western countries met to pledge more military aid to Ukraine, especially air defence weapons, on the heels of heavy retaliatory strikes this week ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin in response to an explosion on a bridge in Crimea.

Pledges from allies included an announcement by Francethat it would deliver radar and air defence systems to Ukraine in the coming weeks. Britainpledged air defence missiles, and Canada saidit would provide artillery rounds among other supplies.

At the meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group in Brussels, U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said Russia's latest attacks laid bare its "malice and cruelty" since invading Ukraine on Feb. 24. At least 26 people have been killed since Monday in Russian missile attacks across Ukraine.

Ukraine had shifted momentum since September with extraordinary gains, but would need more help, he said. "... We're going to do everything we can to make sure that they have what's required to be effective," Austin told reporters.

Since Monday's attacks, Germany has sent the first of four IRIS-T SLM air defence systems, while Washington said it would speed up delivery of a promised NASAMS air defence system.

"The more assistance Ukraine gets now, the sooner we'll come to an end to the Russian war," Zelenskyy said by video to a forum during International Monetary Fund and World Bank annual meetings in Washington.

Russia's U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia told the General Assembly ahead of the vote that the resolution was "politicised and openly provocative," adding that it could "destroy" efforts to reach a diplomatic solution.

Russian missiles pounded more than 40 Ukrainian cities and towns, officials said on Thursday, after a U.N. General Assembly resolution called Moscow's annexation of Ukrainian territory "illegal" and Ukraine's allies committed more military aid.

Russian missiles pounded more than 40 Ukrainian cities and towns, officials said on Thursday, after a U.N. General Assembly resolution called Moscow's annexation of Ukrainian territory "illegal" and Ukraine's allies committed more military aid. Russia repeated its position that the West, by helping Ukraine, indicated that "they are a direct party to the conflict" and warned the admission of Ukraine to NATO could trigger World War Three. "Kyiv is well aware that such a step would mean a guaranteed escalation to a World War Three," deputy secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, Alexander Venediktov, told the state TASS news agency on Thursday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced a surprise bid for fast-track membership of the NATO military alliance at the end of September after Russian President Vladimir Putin held a ceremony in Moscow to proclaim four partially occupied regions as annexed Russian land. In the past 24 hours, Russian missiles hit more than 40 settlements, while Ukraine's air force carried out 32 strikes on 25 Russian targets, Ukraine's Armed Forces General Staff said. Mayor of the port city of Mykolaiv, Oleksandr Senkevich, said in a social media post that the southern city was "massively shelled". "A five-storey residential building was hit, the two upper floors were completely destroyed, the rest – under rubble. Rescuers are working on the site,” he said. A shipbuilding centre and a port on the Southern Bug river off the Black Sea, Mykolaiv has suffered heavy Russian bombardments throughout the war. Russia also targeted a settlement in the region of Ukraine's capital Kyiv using explosive drones early on Thursday, the region's administration said on the Telegram messaging app. Governor of the Kyiv region, Oleksiy Kuleba, said, based on preliminary information, the strikes were caused by Iranian-made loitering munitions. These are often known as "kamikaze drones". Critical infrastructure facilities were hit by the drones, said Kyrylo Tymoshenko, the deputy head of Zelenskyy's office. Missiles struck more than 30 multi-storey and private houses, gas pipelines and power lines in the city of Nikopol in the Dnipropetrovsk region, and more than 2,000 families were left without electricity, Dnipropetrovsk Governor Valentyn Reznichenko wrote on Telegram. Reuters was not able to immediately verify the report. NATO's secretary-general, Jens Stoltenberg, said Russia's missile attacks were a sign of weakness. "Russia is actually losing on the battlefield," Stoltenberg said. As his forces have lost ground since September, Putin has intensified the conflict, ordering the call-up of hundreds of thousands of reservists, proclaiming the annexation of occupied Ukrainian territory and repeatedly threatening to use nuclear weapons to protect Russia. Putin has threatened to use nuclear weapons to protect Russian soil, which he says includes the four regions he declared annexed last month. U.S. President Joe Biden said on Wednesday he doubted Putin would resort to nuclear weapons. A senior NATO official said a Russian nuclear strike would almost certainly trigger a "physical response"from Ukraine's allies and potentially NATO. UN condemns Russia In New York, three-quarters of the 193-member General Assembly - 143 countries - voted on Wednesday in favour of a resolution condemning Russia's "attempted illegal annexation" of the four partially occupied regions. Only four countries joined Russia in voting against the resolution - Syria, Nicaragua, North Korea and Belarus. Thirty-five countries abstained from the vote, including Russia's strategic partner China, while the rest did not vote. Moscow in September proclaimed its annexation of four partially occupied regions in Ukraine - Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia - after staging what it called referendums. Zelenskyy said on Twitter he was "grateful to 143 states that supported the historic #UNGA resolution ...(Russia's) attempt at annexation is worthless." In Brussels, more than 50 Western countries met to pledge more military aid to Ukraine, especially air defence weapons, on the heels of heavy retaliatory strikes this week ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin in response to an explosion on a bridge in Crimea. Pledges from allies included an announcement by Francethat it would deliver radar and air defence systems to Ukraine in the coming weeks. Britainpledged air defence missiles, and Canada saidit would provide artillery rounds among other supplies. At the meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group in Brussels, U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said Russia's latest attacks laid bare its "malice and cruelty" since invading Ukraine on Feb. 24. At least 26 people have been killed since Monday in Russian missile attacks across Ukraine. Ukraine had shifted momentum since September with extraordinary gains, but would need more help, he said. "... We're going to do everything we can to make sure that they have what's required to be effective," Austin told reporters. Since Monday's attacks, Germany has sent the first of four IRIS-T SLM air defence systems, while Washington said it would speed up delivery of a promised NASAMS air defence system. "The more assistance Ukraine gets now, the sooner we'll come to an end to the Russian war," Zelenskyy said by video to a forum during International Monetary Fund and World Bank annual meetings in Washington. Russia's U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia told the General Assembly ahead of the vote that the resolution was "politicised and openly provocative," adding that it could "destroy" efforts to reach a diplomatic solution.

Russian missiles target more than 40 Ukraine cities, towns

India, which has a history of maintaining a neutral stand, abstained from&nbsp;voting on a UN General Assembly resolution denouncing Russia's annexation of Ukrainian territory Wednesday.&nbsp;China,&nbsp;South Africa and Pakistan too abstained from the vote.

Calling for a diplomatic resolution, the nation stated that this was in line with New Delhi's "well thought out national position".

The resolution which "condemns the organisation by the Russian Federation of so-called referendums within the internationally recognized borders of Ukraine" and "the attempted illegal annexation" announced last month of four regions by President Vladimir Putin received 143 votes, with only five countries voting against it. Even though 35 nations abstained from voting, the resolution was passed with a two-thirds majority, reports AFP.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;UN General Assembly adopts resolution condemning Russia’s attempted annexation of Ukraine’s regions

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-general-assembly-adopts-resolution-condemning-russias-attempted-annexation-of-ukraines-regions-524946/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In a run-up to this vote, India had voted against Russia in three procedural motions. However, these did not affect its neutral stance in a significant way.

The nation had also refrained from voting on a recent Security Council resolution and the two General Assembly resolutions condemning Russia in March.&nbsp;Bangladesh, Iraq and Senegal which had abstained from voting in March on Wednesday voted to condemn Russia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-reclaims-five-settlements-in-russia-annexed-kherson-region-524839" hreflang="en">Ukraine claims its forces recapture five settlements in Russia-annexed Kherson region</a>

As per IANS, Ruchira Kamboj, India's permanent representative explained that India has decided to abstain keeping with its "firm resolve to strive for a peaceful solution through dialogue and diplomacy".

"We have consistently advocated that no solution can ever be arrived at the cost of human lives. Escalation of hostilities and violence is in no one's interest."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-nord-stream-leaks-result-of-international-terrorism-524829" hreflang="en">Russian President Putin puts blame for Nord Stream leaks on 'international terrorism'</a>

Quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi she added that the Indian leader "has said unequivocally that this cannot be an era of war."&nbsp;

She also quoted Indian External Affairs Minister S.Jaishsankar in saying "We are on the side that respects the UN Charter and its founding principles". Thi statement is believed to imply support for Ukraine in the ongoing conflict.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

India, which has a history of maintaining a neutral stand, abstained from voting on a UN General Assembly resolution denouncing Russia's annexation of Ukrainian territory Wednesday.

India, which has a history of maintaining a neutral stand, abstained from voting on a UN General Assembly resolution denouncing Russia's annexation of Ukrainian territory Wednesday. China, South Africa and Pakistan too abstained from the vote. Calling for a diplomatic resolution, the nation stated that this was in line with New Delhi's "well thought out national position". The resolution which "condemns the organisation by the Russian Federation of so-called referendums within the internationally recognized borders of Ukraine" and "the attempted illegal annexation" announced last month of four regions by President Vladimir Putin received 143 votes, with only five countries voting against it. Even though 35 nations abstained from voting, the resolution was passed with a two-thirds majority, reports AFP. Watch | UN General Assembly adopts resolution condemning Russia’s attempted annexation of Ukraine’s regions In a run-up to this vote, India had voted against Russia in three procedural motions. However, these did not affect its neutral stance in a significant way. The nation had also refrained from voting on a recent Security Council resolution and the two General Assembly resolutions condemning Russia in March. Bangladesh, Iraq and Senegal which had abstained from voting in March on Wednesday voted to condemn Russia. Also read | Ukraine claims its forces recapture five settlements in Russia-annexed Kherson region As per IANS, Ruchira Kamboj, India's permanent representative explained that India has decided to abstain keeping with its "firm resolve to strive for a peaceful solution through dialogue and diplomacy". "We have consistently advocated that no solution can ever be arrived at the cost of human lives. Escalation of hostilities and violence is in no one's interest." Also read | Russian President Putin puts blame for Nord Stream leaks on 'international terrorism' Quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi she added that the Indian leader "has said unequivocally that this cannot be an era of war." She also quoted Indian External Affairs Minister S.Jaishsankar in saying "We are on the side that respects the UN Charter and its founding principles". Thi statement is believed to imply support for Ukraine in the ongoing conflict. (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.

UNGA passes resolution condemning Russian 'illegal annexation' of Ukrainian land; India abstains from voting

Ukraine has claimed that its forces recaptured five settlements in the southern annexed Kherson region during the ongoing counteroffensive against the Russian forces.

According to southern command speaker Vladislav Nazarov, the five villages that were taken on October 11 are&nbsp;Novovasylivka, Novohryhorivka, Nova Kamianka, Tryfonivka and Chervone in the Beryslav district.

"Ukrainian armed forces have liberated five more settlements in Beryslav district (of&nbsp; Kherson&nbsp;region): Novovasylivka, Novogrygorivka, Nova Kamyanka, Tryfonivka, Chervone," Ukraine President’s office said in its daily report, according to AFP news agency.

The report said that Russian forces were striking back and continuously shelling Ukraine's positions "along the entire contact line".&nbsp;

Kherson was among the first cities to be taken by Russian forces since the invasion of Ukraine in February.

In late August, the Ukrainian army launched its counteroffensive in the southern part of the country.&nbsp;

Currently, the Russian forces are in control of three more Ukrainian regions, apart from Kherson.

Apart from the south, the Ukrainian forces claimed to have gained significant advances in the eastern front as well, and regained almost full control of the northeastern region of Kharkiv.

Meanwhile, Russia continues to pummel Ukraine with missile strikes, damaging energy sites across the country.

President Vladimir Putin said that they were retaliating against the Crimea bridge explosion that reportedly killed four people.

On Wednesday, Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) detained eight suspects, including five Russian citizens, and three citizens of Ukraine and Armenia, &nbsp;over the blast.

In a press release, the FSB&nbsp;blamed Ukraine’s military intelligence for the attack.

Meanwhile, Ukraine has neither confirmed nor denied its role in the Kerch Bridge attack.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE: 

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Ukraine has claimed that its forces recaptured five settlements in the southern annexed Kherson region during the ongoing counteroffensive against the Russian forces.

Ukraine has claimed that its forces recaptured five settlements in the southern annexed Kherson region during the ongoing counteroffensive against the Russian forces. According to southern command speaker Vladislav Nazarov, the five villages that were taken on October 11 are Novovasylivka, Novohryhorivka, Nova Kamianka, Tryfonivka and Chervone in the Beryslav district. "Ukrainian armed forces have liberated five more settlements in Beryslav district (of Kherson region): Novovasylivka, Novogrygorivka, Nova Kamyanka, Tryfonivka, Chervone," Ukraine President’s office said in its daily report, according to AFP news agency. The report said that Russian forces were striking back and continuously shelling Ukraine's positions "along the entire contact line". Kherson was among the first cities to be taken by Russian forces since the invasion of Ukraine in February. In late August, the Ukrainian army launched its counteroffensive in the southern part of the country. Currently, the Russian forces are in control of three more Ukrainian regions, apart from Kherson. Apart from the south, the Ukrainian forces claimed to have gained significant advances in the eastern front as well, and regained almost full control of the northeastern region of Kharkiv. Meanwhile, Russia continues to pummel Ukraine with missile strikes, damaging energy sites across the country. President Vladimir Putin said that they were retaliating against the Crimea bridge explosion that reportedly killed four people. On Wednesday, Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) detained eight suspects, including five Russian citizens, and three citizens of Ukraine and Armenia, over the blast. In a press release, the FSB blamed Ukraine’s military intelligence for the attack. Meanwhile, Ukraine has neither confirmed nor denied its role in the Kerch Bridge attack. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ukraine claims its forces recapture five settlements in Russia-annexed Kherson region

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday claimed that Russia was dragging Belarus into the war, and urged the western allies to extend military aid and help Kyiv to defend itself.

Addressing the G7 leaders virtually after two days of widespread aerial strikes by Russia across Ukraine cities, Zelensky called for international observers to be placed on the Ukraine-Belarus border "to monitor the security situation".

"Russia is trying to directly draw Belarus into this war, playing a provocation that we are allegedly preparing an attack on this country," Zelensky said.

He further said that Putin is looking for "room for escalation" and added that he is his the final days of his reign.

“The Russian leader, who is now in the final stage of his reign, still has room for further escalation. This is "a threat to all of us,” he said.

Urging the West allies to help fund Ukraine’s air defence system, Zelensky said, “I am asking you to strengthen the overall effort to help financially with the creation of an air shield for Ukraine. Millions of people will be grateful to the Group of Seven for such assistance.”

The G7 leaders from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK and US condemned Russia “in the strongest possible terms” for the recent airstrikes in Ukraine that killed several civilians.

Following their meeting with the Ukrainian leader, the G7 issued a joint statement deploring attacks saying that the “indiscriminate attacks on innocent civilian populations constitute a war crime”.

“No country wants peace more than Ukraine, whose people have suffered death, displacement and countless atrocities as the result of Russian aggression.”

“We will continue to provide financial, humanitarian, military, diplomatic and legal support and will stand firmly with Ukraine for as long as it takes,” it added.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE: 

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday claimed that Russia was dragging Belarus into the war, and urged the western allies to extend military aid and help Kyiv to defend itself.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday claimed that Russia was dragging Belarus into the war, and urged the western allies to extend military aid and help Kyiv to defend itself. Addressing the G7 leaders virtually after two days of widespread aerial strikes by Russia across Ukraine cities, Zelensky called for international observers to be placed on the Ukraine-Belarus border "to monitor the security situation". "Russia is trying to directly draw Belarus into this war, playing a provocation that we are allegedly preparing an attack on this country," Zelensky said. He further said that Putin is looking for "room for escalation" and added that he is his the final days of his reign. “The Russian leader, who is now in the final stage of his reign, still has room for further escalation. This is "a threat to all of us,” he said. Urging the West allies to help fund Ukraine’s air defence system, Zelensky said, “I am asking you to strengthen the overall effort to help financially with the creation of an air shield for Ukraine. Millions of people will be grateful to the Group of Seven for such assistance.” The G7 leaders from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK and US condemned Russia “in the strongest possible terms” for the recent airstrikes in Ukraine that killed several civilians. Following their meeting with the Ukrainian leader, the G7 issued a joint statement deploring attacks saying that the “indiscriminate attacks on innocent civilian populations constitute a war crime”. “No country wants peace more than Ukraine, whose people have suffered death, displacement and countless atrocities as the result of Russian aggression.” “We will continue to provide financial, humanitarian, military, diplomatic and legal support and will stand firmly with Ukraine for as long as it takes,” it added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ukraine’s Zelensky says Russia ‘trying to draw Belarus into this war’

The UN General Assembly meets Monday hours after Russia launched a deadly barrage of missile strikes at cities across Ukraine, as Western powers condemned Moscow's latest attacks and sought to underscore its isolation.

The United Nations called the urgent meeting to discuss Russia's declared annexation of four partly occupied Ukrainian regions, but the debate was set to be overshadowed by the attacks on Kyiv and other cities in one of the most punishing assaults on Ukraine in months.

Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed even more "severe" retaliation after the recent explosion that damaged a key bridge in Moscow-annexed Crimea -- an attack the Kremlin has blamed on Kyiv.

Ahead of the General Assembly session, and with tensions at a boiling point, UN chief Antonio Guterres described Russia's attacks as an "unacceptable escalation of the war," his spokesman said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-hacker-group-launches-cyberattacks-on-various-united-states-airports-524198">Russian hacker group launches cyberattacks on various United States airports</a>

US President Joe Biden meanwhile condemned the strikes in stark terms, saying they "demonstrate the utter brutality" of Putin's "illegal war."

"The United States strongly condemns Russia's missile strikes today across Ukraine," he said in a statement.

'Illegal annexations'&nbsp;

With <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-live-updates-three-loud-blasts-rock-kyiv-report-523917">Putin's actions</a> in the spotlight, UN debate will open on a draft resolution denouncing what has been widely seen in the West as Russia's illegal seizure of Ukrainian land.

The decision to bring the annexation matter before the General Assembly, where the 193 UN members have one vote each -- and no one wields veto power -- was taken after Russia used its veto in a Security Council meeting September 30 to block a similar proposal.

The vote is expected no sooner than Wednesday.

"It's extremely important," said Olof Skoog, who, as EU ambassador to the world body, drafted the text in cooperation with Ukraine and other countries.

The international community will be in "a very, very bad place," the Swedish diplomat told reporters, "unless the UN system and the international community through the General Assembly react to this kind of illegal attempt."

A failure by the General Assembly to act would give "carte blanche to other countries to do likewise or to give recognition to what Russia has done," he added.

A resolution draft seen by AFP condemns Russia's "attempted illegal annexations" of the Ukrainian regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson following "so-called referendums," and it stresses these actions have "no validity under international law."

It calls on all states, international organizations and agencies not to recognize the annexations, and demands the immediate withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine.

In response to the resolution, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-girl-captures-kyiv-missile-explosions-with-phone-camera-watch-524044">Russia</a> has written to all member states in a letter attacking "Western delegations" whose actions "have nothing to do with protection of international law and the principles of the UN Charter."

"They only pursue their own geopolitical objectives," said the letter, signed by Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia.

Nebenzia said that given the circumstances, the General Assembly should vote by secret ballot -- a highly unusual procedure normally reserved for matters like electing the rotating members of the Security Council.

'A bit of desperation'&nbsp;

"It doesn't suggest a high degree of confidence in the outcome if Russia is seeking to obscure the vote count," a senior official in US President Joe Biden's administration told reporters. "It does suggest a bit of desperation."

Guterres himself has bluntly denounced the annexations as being "against everything the international community is meant to stand for," he said.&nbsp;

"It has no place in the modern world. It must not be accepted."

During last month's Security Council vote, no other country sided with Russia, though four delegations -- China, India, Brazil and Gabon -- abstained.

Some developing countries have complained the West is devoting all its attention to Ukraine, and others might be tempted to join them this week.

The vote will provide a clear picture of exactly how isolated Russia has become. Given the high stakes, backers of the draft are going all out to win over potential abstentionists.&nbsp;

On Monday, Ukrainian diplomat Dmytro Kuleba issued a plea to African nations to get off the fence.

"Neutrality will only encourage Russia to continue its aggression and malign activities across the world, including in Africa," he said.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

The UN General Assembly meets Monday hours after Russia launched a deadly barrage of missile strikes at cities across Ukraine, as Western powers condemned Moscow's latest attacks and sought to underscore its isolation.

The UN General Assembly meets Monday hours after Russia launched a deadly barrage of missile strikes at cities across Ukraine, as Western powers condemned Moscow's latest attacks and sought to underscore its isolation. The United Nations called the urgent meeting to discuss Russia's declared annexation of four partly occupied Ukrainian regions, but the debate was set to be overshadowed by the attacks on Kyiv and other cities in one of the most punishing assaults on Ukraine in months. Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed even more "severe" retaliation after the recent explosion that damaged a key bridge in Moscow-annexed Crimea -- an attack the Kremlin has blamed on Kyiv. Ahead of the General Assembly session, and with tensions at a boiling point, UN chief Antonio Guterres described Russia's attacks as an "unacceptable escalation of the war," his spokesman said. Also read | Russian hacker group launches cyberattacks on various United States airports US President Joe Biden meanwhile condemned the strikes in stark terms, saying they "demonstrate the utter brutality" of Putin's "illegal war." "The United States strongly condemns Russia's missile strikes today across Ukraine," he said in a statement. 'Illegal annexations' With Putin's actions in the spotlight, UN debate will open on a draft resolution denouncing what has been widely seen in the West as Russia's illegal seizure of Ukrainian land. The decision to bring the annexation matter before the General Assembly, where the 193 UN members have one vote each -- and no one wields veto power -- was taken after Russia used its veto in a Security Council meeting September 30 to block a similar proposal. The vote is expected no sooner than Wednesday. "It's extremely important," said Olof Skoog, who, as EU ambassador to the world body, drafted the text in cooperation with Ukraine and other countries. The international community will be in "a very, very bad place," the Swedish diplomat told reporters, "unless the UN system and the international community through the General Assembly react to this kind of illegal attempt." A failure by the General Assembly to act would give "carte blanche to other countries to do likewise or to give recognition to what Russia has done," he added. A resolution draft seen by AFP condemns Russia's "attempted illegal annexations" of the Ukrainian regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson following "so-called referendums," and it stresses these actions have "no validity under international law." It calls on all states, international organizations and agencies not to recognize the annexations, and demands the immediate withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine. In response to the resolution, Russia has written to all member states in a letter attacking "Western delegations" whose actions "have nothing to do with protection of international law and the principles of the UN Charter." "They only pursue their own geopolitical objectives," said the letter, signed by Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia. Nebenzia said that given the circumstances, the General Assembly should vote by secret ballot -- a highly unusual procedure normally reserved for matters like electing the rotating members of the Security Council. 'A bit of desperation' "It doesn't suggest a high degree of confidence in the outcome if Russia is seeking to obscure the vote count," a senior official in US President Joe Biden's administration told reporters. "It does suggest a bit of desperation." Guterres himself has bluntly denounced the annexations as being "against everything the international community is meant to stand for," he said. "It has no place in the modern world. It must not be accepted." During last month's Security Council vote, no other country sided with Russia, though four delegations -- China, India, Brazil and Gabon -- abstained. Some developing countries have complained the West is devoting all its attention to Ukraine, and others might be tempted to join them this week. The vote will provide a clear picture of exactly how isolated Russia has become. Given the high stakes, backers of the draft are going all out to win over potential abstentionists. On Monday, Ukrainian diplomat Dmytro Kuleba issued a plea to African nations to get off the fence. "Neutrality will only encourage Russia to continue its aggression and malign activities across the world, including in Africa," he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UN set to meet after Russia strikes in Ukraine

Would you ever picture a soldier in a wheelchair when you think of the Army or a war? Russia's compulsory partial military mobilisation almost made that a reality.

As the Ukraine war continues for the seventh month, Russian President Vladimir Putin a few weeks back ordered the compulsory mobilisation of Russian citizens for the first time since World War II.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Russia Mobilisation: Long lines at Russia-Georgia border, calls in military reservists

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indonesia-football-tragedy-official-no-orders-to-use-tear-gas-on-the-crowd-522577/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Putin in his televised address announcing this had said that "only citizens who are currently in the reserve and, above all, those who served in the armed forces, have certain military specialities and relevant experience will be subject to conscription".&nbsp;

However, multiple bizarre conscription orders have now come to light.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trying-to-escape-mobilisation-russians-pay-27000-for-seats-on-private-planes-out-of-country-520192">Trying to escape mobilisation, Russians pay $27,000 for seats on private planes out of country</a>

In one case, a wheelchair-bound paraplegic Russian man received his orders to join the army in its invasion of Ukraine. Oleg Vasiliev, a man who can barely move his body due to spinal muscular atrophy has been ordered to report to his local draft office.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><script async src="https://telegram.org/js/telegram-widget.js?21" data-telegram-post="sotaproject/47739" data-width="100%"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Another man, Dmitry Ignatov who lost a leg when an S-300 rocket launcher fell on him while he was serving in Severodvinsk during his time in the army also received a summons. Dmitry is a celebrity in hi sown right, a TV presenter and para-athlete, he raises awareness about the disabled in Russia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-satellite-images-show-10-mile-long-traffic-jam-at-russian-borders-amid-mobilisation-520666">Satellite images show 10-mile-long traffic jam at Russian borders amid mobilisation</a>

PDM News reports that Dmitry has been released from his summons.&nbsp;

"I went to the military enlistment office in the morning, they checked my documents and released me. No one is calling me, just checking documents and that’s it," he said.

<img src="https://pdmnews.ru/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/photo_2022-10-08_19-33-47-1200x898.jpg" />

(Image courtesy: PDM News)

This comes as hundreds attempt to flee Russia, trying to escape joining the war, with many spending thousands of dollars on private flight seats out of Russia.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe height="692" id="reddit-embed" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups" scrolling="no" src="https://www.redditmedia.com/r/ukraine/comments/xwlnos/russian_conscripts_in_the_taman_division_mounted/?ref_source=embed&amp;ref=share&amp;embed=true" style="border: none;" width="640"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

As per Mirror UK, Russian conscripts have started protesting "over being treated like 'cattle'", with many soldiers moaning about no training being provided to them even as they travel to the frontlines.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Would you ever picture a soldier in a wheelchair when you think of the Army or a war? Russia's compulsory partial military mobilisation almost made that a reality.

Would you ever picture a soldier in a wheelchair when you think of the Army or a war? Russia's compulsory partial military mobilisation almost made that a reality. As the Ukraine war continues for the seventh month, Russian President Vladimir Putin a few weeks back ordered the compulsory mobilisation of Russian citizens for the first time since World War II. Watch | Russia Mobilisation: Long lines at Russia-Georgia border, calls in military reservists Putin in his televised address announcing this had said that "only citizens who are currently in the reserve and, above all, those who served in the armed forces, have certain military specialities and relevant experience will be subject to conscription". However, multiple bizarre conscription orders have now come to light. Also read | Trying to escape mobilisation, Russians pay $27,000 for seats on private planes out of country In one case, a wheelchair-bound paraplegic Russian man received his orders to join the army in its invasion of Ukraine. Oleg Vasiliev, a man who can barely move his body due to spinal muscular atrophy has been ordered to report to his local draft office. × Another man, Dmitry Ignatov who lost a leg when an S-300 rocket launcher fell on him while he was serving in Severodvinsk during his time in the army also received a summons. Dmitry is a celebrity in hi sown right, a TV presenter and para-athlete, he raises awareness about the disabled in Russia. Also read | Satellite images show 10-mile-long traffic jam at Russian borders amid mobilisation PDM News reports that Dmitry has been released from his summons. "I went to the military enlistment office in the morning, they checked my documents and released me. No one is calling me, just checking documents and that’s it," he said. (Image courtesy: PDM News) This comes as hundreds attempt to flee Russia, trying to escape joining the war, with many spending thousands of dollars on private flight seats out of Russia. × As per Mirror UK, Russian conscripts have started protesting "over being treated like 'cattle'", with many soldiers moaning about no training being provided to them even as they travel to the frontlines. (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 summons wheelchair-bound man to fight in the Ukrainian war

President Biden condemned Russian President Vladimir V. Putin's missile strikes throughout Ukraine on Monday, saying they had no military use and once more illustrated "the complete cruelty of Mr. Putin's illegitimate war on the Ukrainian people."

In reaction to the attacks, Biden made no new announcements regarding the United States or its partners. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-takes-jibe-at-biden-says-stupid-people-do-not-have-a-clue-524132">Biden</a> reiterated his commitment to help Ukraine in its conflict with Russia in a written statement released by the White House.

“These attacks only further reinforce our commitment to stand with the people of Ukraine for as long as it takes,” Biden said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-live-updates-three-loud-blasts-rock-kyiv-report-523917">Russia-Ukraine war live updates | Putin warns of more 'severe' attacks as Russian missiles pound Ukraine</a>

The leaders of the Group of 7 nations—the United States, Canada, Japan, France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom—will meet virtually on Tuesday, and the American president is anticipated to be present. According to a European Union official, the group will talk about the missile attacks and the most recent developments in Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

President Biden condemned Russian President Vladimir V. Putin's missile strikes throughout Ukraine on Monday, saying they had no military use and once more illustrated "the complete cruelty of Mr.

President Biden condemned Russian President Vladimir V. Putin's missile strikes throughout Ukraine on Monday, saying they had no military use and once more illustrated "the complete cruelty of Mr. Putin's illegitimate war on the Ukrainian people." In reaction to the attacks, Biden made no new announcements regarding the United States or its partners. Biden reiterated his commitment to help Ukraine in its conflict with Russia in a written statement released by the White House. “These attacks only further reinforce our commitment to stand with the people of Ukraine for as long as it takes,” Biden said. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war live updates | Putin warns of more 'severe' attacks as Russian missiles pound Ukraine The leaders of the Group of 7 nations—the United States, Canada, Japan, France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom—will meet virtually on Tuesday, and the American president is anticipated to be present. According to a European Union official, the group will talk about the missile attacks and the most recent developments in Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US President Biden condemns ‘the utter brutality of Putin’s illegal war’

The United States will soon be unable to supply Ukraine with particular types of munitions that are crucial to Kyiv's fight against Russia's invasion,&nbsp;given that supplies are depleting more quickly than they can be renewed.&nbsp;

Since Russia began its invasion on February 24 with more than $26.4 billion&nbsp;in military aid, Washington has grown to be by far the largest supplier of armaments to Ukraine.

However, the US inventories of some equipment are "approaching the minimal levels needed for war preparations and training," and refilling to pre-invasion levels might take years, according to Mark Cancian of the Center for Strategic and International Studies in a recent analysis.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/semiconductor-war-us-announces-rules-that-will-set-back-the-chinese-chip-industry-by-years-523510">US enforces export controls to restrict China's chip supply for hi-tech military applications</a>

Under the condition of anonymity, a US military official stated that Washington is "learning lessons" from the fight about the ammunition demands in a great power war, which are "much more" than anticipated.

Following the fall of the Soviet Union, the United States severely cut defence spending, forcing American defence corporations to drastically reduce production. As a result, their numbers fell from dozens to single digits.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-new-york-university-fires-chemistry-teacher-after-students-file-petition-saying-his-class-was-too-hard-523268">US</a> government must now persuade the industry to restart manufacture of weapons like Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, which have not been produced since 2020, and reactivate assembly lines.

Several pieces of US-supplied equipment have come to represent the conflict in Ukraine, including the Javelin anti-tank weapons that Kyiv's forces used extensively to halt Russia's advance on the capital and the Himars, a precision rocket system that is now a key component of counteroffensives against Moscow's forces in the east and south.

However, US supplies of ammunition for Himars, which launches GMLRS rockets with a range of more than 80 kilometres, are running low.

While the US has given Kyiv roughly 8,500 Javelin missiles, the weapon that has come to represent Ukrainian resistance is only produced at a rate of about 1,000 per year. 
The US government placed an order for the missiles in May for $350 million, but it will still be a while before the stockpiles are refilled.

According to official Pentagon figures, the United States has also sent to Kyiv more than 800,000 NATO standard 155mm artillery shells, or 75% of the total amount delivered by all Western nations.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-world-must-act-now-to-stop-russia-nuclear-threat-says-zelensky-523472">Ukraine war: 'World must act now to stop Russia nuclear threat,' says Zelensky</a>

The Pentagon has stated that it intends to boost US production of these shells from the current monthly average of 14,000 to 36,000 within the next three years.

The annual production would still only reach 432,000, which is less than half of what has been given to Ukraine over the past seven months.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

The United States will soon be unable to supply Ukraine with particular types of munitions that are crucial to Kyiv's fight against Russia's invasion, given that supplies are depleting more quickly than they can be renewed.

The United States will soon be unable to supply Ukraine with particular types of munitions that are crucial to Kyiv's fight against Russia's invasion, given that supplies are depleting more quickly than they can be renewed. Since Russia began its invasion on February 24 with more than $26.4 billion in military aid, Washington has grown to be by far the largest supplier of armaments to Ukraine. However, the US inventories of some equipment are "approaching the minimal levels needed for war preparations and training," and refilling to pre-invasion levels might take years, according to Mark Cancian of the Center for Strategic and International Studies in a recent analysis. Also read | US enforces export controls to restrict China's chip supply for hi-tech military applications Under the condition of anonymity, a US military official stated that Washington is "learning lessons" from the fight about the ammunition demands in a great power war, which are "much more" than anticipated. Following the fall of the Soviet Union, the United States severely cut defence spending, forcing American defence corporations to drastically reduce production. As a result, their numbers fell from dozens to single digits. The US government must now persuade the industry to restart manufacture of weapons like Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, which have not been produced since 2020, and reactivate assembly lines. Several pieces of US-supplied equipment have come to represent the conflict in Ukraine, including the Javelin anti-tank weapons that Kyiv's forces used extensively to halt Russia's advance on the capital and the Himars, a precision rocket system that is now a key component of counteroffensives against Moscow's forces in the east and south. However, US supplies of ammunition for Himars, which launches GMLRS rockets with a range of more than 80 kilometres, are running low. While the US has given Kyiv roughly 8,500 Javelin missiles, the weapon that has come to represent Ukrainian resistance is only produced at a rate of about 1,000 per year. The US government placed an order for the missiles in May for $350 million, but it will still be a while before the stockpiles are refilled. According to official Pentagon figures, the United States has also sent to Kyiv more than 800,000 NATO standard 155mm artillery shells, or 75% of the total amount delivered by all Western nations. Also read | Ukraine war: 'World must act now to stop Russia nuclear threat,' says Zelensky The Pentagon has stated that it intends to boost US production of these shells from the current monthly average of 14,000 to 36,000 within the next three years. The annual production would still only reach 432,000, which is less than half of what has been given to Ukraine over the past seven months. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US ammunition supplies dwindle as Ukraine war depletes stockpiles

In the war-torn country of Ukraine, Russia's missile attack on Zaporizhzhia, killed at least 17 people while 49 others were injured, the injured victims included six children. The Ukrainian authorities claimed that the Russian missiles struck an apartment building.

Russian rockets hit residential building, kills at least 17 | Latest International News | WION

After a part of&nbsp;the Crimean bridge collapsed after an explosion, Russian President Vladimir Putin ramped up the security arrangements and deployed additional forces there.

The 19-kilometre bridge—which was seen as a symbol of the Kremlin’s annexation of the Crimean Peninsula—was hit by a blast on October 8. The explosion claimed the lives of three people and set several oil tankers ablaze, according to Russian officials.

Following the heavy damage, Putin had tasked Federal Security Service (FSB) to oversee the key connector to the occupied peninsula, reports BBC.

So far, it is unknown who caused the blast, but Kyiv hinted at the role of the Ukrainian forces with two Twitter posts— “sick burn” and “hey Crimea, what’s new?”

President Volodymyr Zelensky also acknowledged the incident in his nightly address on Saturday.

"Today was not a bad day and mostly sunny on our state's territory…Unfortunately, it was cloudy in Crimea. Although it was also warm," he said.

Meanwhile, Russia swiftly reopened those parts of the key connector that are still intact. On Saturday, the bridge was partially reopened to road and rail traffic.

Moscow-appointed governor of Crimea, Sergei Aksyonov, expressed the desire for revenge, but made reassurances that the peninsula still had a month's fuel and food for more than two months.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-invasion-of-ukraine-live-17-killed-40-hurt-in-ukraines-zaporizhzhia-city-shelling-523712" hreflang="en">Russia-Ukraine war LIVE | 17 killed, 40 hurt in Zaporizhzhia shelling</a>

"The situation is manageable — it's unpleasant, but not fatal," said Aksyonov, reports Reuters news agency.

"Of course, emotions have been triggered and there is a healthy desire to seek revenge."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mahsa-amini-death-protest-iranian-state-tv-hacked-during-live-broadcast-with-anti-regime-message-523676" hreflang="en">Mahsa Amini protests: Iranian state TV hacked during live broadcast, anti-regime messages flashed</a>

The bridge is a major artery for the Russian forces that control most of southern Ukraine's Kherson region and for the Russian naval port of Sevastopol.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE: 

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

After a part of the Crimean bridge collapsed after an explosion, Russian President Vladimir Putin ramped up the security arrangements and deployed additional forces there.

After a part of the Crimean bridge collapsed after an explosion, Russian President Vladimir Putin ramped up the security arrangements and deployed additional forces there. The 19-kilometre bridge—which was seen as a symbol of the Kremlin’s annexation of the Crimean Peninsula—was hit by a blast on October 8. The explosion claimed the lives of three people and set several oil tankers ablaze, according to Russian officials. Following the heavy damage, Putin had tasked Federal Security Service (FSB) to oversee the key connector to the occupied peninsula, reports BBC. So far, it is unknown who caused the blast, but Kyiv hinted at the role of the Ukrainian forces with two Twitter posts— “sick burn” and “hey Crimea, what’s new?” President Volodymyr Zelensky also acknowledged the incident in his nightly address on Saturday. "Today was not a bad day and mostly sunny on our state's territory…Unfortunately, it was cloudy in Crimea. Although it was also warm," he said. Meanwhile, Russia swiftly reopened those parts of the key connector that are still intact. On Saturday, the bridge was partially reopened to road and rail traffic. Moscow-appointed governor of Crimea, Sergei Aksyonov, expressed the desire for revenge, but made reassurances that the peninsula still had a month's fuel and food for more than two months. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war LIVE | 17 killed, 40 hurt in Zaporizhzhia shelling "The situation is manageable — it's unpleasant, but not fatal," said Aksyonov, reports Reuters news agency. "Of course, emotions have been triggered and there is a healthy desire to seek revenge." Also read | Mahsa Amini protests: Iranian state TV hacked during live broadcast, anti-regime messages flashed The bridge is a major artery for the Russian forces that control most of southern Ukraine's Kherson region and for the Russian naval port of Sevastopol. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russian President Putin ramps up security of Kerch bridge connecting Crimea after blast

The Kerch bridge that links the Russian mainland to Crimean peninsula has been partially destroyed after a blast hit the bridge. Ukraine has expressed joy but has not taken responsibility for the blast.

Crimea bridge partially destroyed after blast; Russian authorities say will be repaired soon

Russia on Friday labelled superstar rapper Oxxxymiron, popular among young Russians, a "foreign agent", according to the interior ministry's website.

Oxxxymiron, the stage name of 37-year-old Miron Fyodorov, has called the Kremlin's Ukraine offensive a "catastrophe and a crime".&nbsp;

His name was added to a register of "foreign agents" -- a term used to crackdown on Kremlin critics -- on the ministry's website. &nbsp;

The rapper is one of thousands of Russians who left Russia since the Kremlin sent troops to Ukraine and has organised concerts in support of Ukrainian refugees from abroad.

Popular Russian science fiction writer Dmitry Glukhovsky -- who also denounced the offensive and was put on a wanted list for "discrediting" the Russian army -- was also labelled a "foreign agent".

The author of a 2002 post-apocalyptic fiction novel, 'Metro 2033', was put on the list after a Russian court ordered his arrest in absentia for his criticism of the offensive.

Feminist politician Alena Popova -- who has long campaigned for domestic violence legislation in Russia -- and a journalist for Radio Free Europe/Liberty, Irina Storozheva, were also added to the foreign agent list.&nbsp;

The label, which is reminiscent of the "enemy of the people" of the Soviet era, has been used extensively against opponents, journalists and human rights activists accused of conducting foreign-funded political activities.

Russia on Friday labelled superstar rapper Oxxxymiron, popular among young Russians, a "foreign agent", according to the interior ministry's website. Oxxxymiron, the stage name of 37-year-old Miron Fyodorov, has called the Kremlin's Ukraine offensive a "catastrophe and a crime".

Russia on Friday labelled superstar rapper Oxxxymiron, popular among young Russians, a "foreign agent", according to the interior ministry's website. Oxxxymiron, the stage name of 37-year-old Miron Fyodorov, has called the Kremlin's Ukraine offensive a "catastrophe and a crime". His name was added to a register of "foreign agents" -- a term used to crackdown on Kremlin critics -- on the ministry's website. The rapper is one of thousands of Russians who left Russia since the Kremlin sent troops to Ukraine and has organised concerts in support of Ukrainian refugees from abroad. Popular Russian science fiction writer Dmitry Glukhovsky -- who also denounced the offensive and was put on a wanted list for "discrediting" the Russian army -- was also labelled a "foreign agent". The author of a 2002 post-apocalyptic fiction novel, 'Metro 2033', was put on the list after a Russian court ordered his arrest in absentia for his criticism of the offensive. Feminist politician Alena Popova -- who has long campaigned for domestic violence legislation in Russia -- and a journalist for Radio Free Europe/Liberty, Irina Storozheva, were also added to the foreign agent list. The label, which is reminiscent of the "enemy of the people" of the Soviet era, has been used extensively against opponents, journalists and human rights activists accused of conducting foreign-funded political activities.

Russia labels star rapper Oxxxymiron a 'foreign agent' on interior ministry website

The Russian President Vladimir Putin signed yet another decree amidst Russia-Ukraine war. Putin's decree created a new operator for Exxonmobil cooperation led Sakhalin-1 oil and gas project.

Russia: Putin orders seizure of Sakhalin-1 project

In recent days, Ukrainian forces have made significant territorial gains against invading Russian forces in both the east of the country around Lyman and in the south around Kherson. These are part of the territories that Russia attempted to annex in what the West calls “sham” referendums.

WION-VOA Co-Production: Ukraine war enters critical phase, Kyiv forces advance in South

After signing the legislation formally including four Ukrainian regions into Russia, President Putin said that Moscow will stabilise the situation in what it claimed to be the annexed regions that represents around 18% of Ukraine's territory.

Russia annexes 15% Ukraine; Kyiv, West condemns move

Against all odds a 75-year-old Ukrainian pensioner has demonstrated his resilience to help his nation. He has been collecting donations for Ukrainian soldiers despite losing his legs more than half a century.

Ukrainian pensioner who lost legs defies Russian occupation

An Indian-born doctor, who was stuck in the conflict-torn Ukraine for months with his two pets—a jaguar and leopard—has been forced to let go of them.

Gidikumar Patil, a 42-year-old doctor who became a Ukrainian citizen in 2016, had to leave his pets in search of a living in neighbouring Poland after the hospital he was working with was bombed in the Russia-Ukraine war.

Patil bought the animals in 2020 from a zoo in the capital Kyiv. One of the cats is a 24-month-old male "lepjag"— a rare hybrid of a male leopard and a female jaguar — while the other one is a 14-month-old female black panther.

When the Russian invasion began, Patil, who is unmarried, vowed not to leave without his pets. He was working as an orthopaedic doctor in a hospital in Svavtove, a small town in Severodonetsk&nbsp;in the Luhansk region of eastern Ukraine, reports BBC.

But he could not sustain himself as the hospital where he was working closed before being bombed and it became very difficult to feed them.&nbsp;He used to spend $300 on food, which mostly consisted of 5 kg chicken every day after the war began.

Eventually, he spent all of his savings and sold&nbsp;part of his farmland, two apartments, two cars, his motorcycle and camera for a little over $100,000.

Patil left home in Ukraine with a bag carrying his clothes, $100 and a few thousand roubles in cash. He left the cats with a caretaker, paid him $2,400 as three months of wages and decided to cross the border, hoping one day he would earn some money and return.

"As the situation worsened and bomb attacks inched closer to my home and I ran out of money, I decided to leave the cats with a caretaker, cross the border, earn some money and return," Giri told BBC.

But the plan didn’t quite work out the way he thought.

While trying to cross the border, he was detained by Russian soldiers on the suspicion of being a spy and was interrogated for three days.

Only after he convinced them that he is not participating in the war and showed the YouTube videos he used to make with his animals that he was finally let go. But they seized his passport and issued him a paper identification and dropped him off near the Polish border.

After Patil shared his ordeal with the Polish authorities, they gave him a "paper visa" which allows him to stay in the country for 90 days, he said. Then he took a night bus to Warsaw.

As the situation worsens in Ukraine, Patil says he is clueless about when he will return to his cats.

Though his family from the southern Andhra Pradesh state, India, is sending him money, he has been knocking on the doors of Indian embassies to get his cats back.

"I have contacted the Indian embassy in Kyiv a few times on phone and WhatsApp, asking them whether they could take my cats out of Ukraine. They told me they don't deal with wild animals," he was quoted as saying.

“I want my cats back. If the Indian government can pick them up and take them home to a zoo or a forest in India, it is fine. I just want to save them."

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE: 

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

An Indian-born doctor, who was stuck in the conflict-torn Ukraine for months with his two pets—a jaguar and leopard—has been forced to let go of them. Gidikumar Patil, a 42-year-old doctor who became a Ukrainian citizen in 2016, had to leave his pets in search of a living in neighbouring Poland after the hospital he was working with was bombed in the Russia-Ukraine war.

An Indian-born doctor, who was stuck in the conflict-torn Ukraine for months with his two pets—a jaguar and leopard—has been forced to let go of them. Gidikumar Patil, a 42-year-old doctor who became a Ukrainian citizen in 2016, had to leave his pets in search of a living in neighbouring Poland after the hospital he was working with was bombed in the Russia-Ukraine war. Patil bought the animals in 2020 from a zoo in the capital Kyiv. One of the cats is a 24-month-old male "lepjag"— a rare hybrid of a male leopard and a female jaguar — while the other one is a 14-month-old female black panther. When the Russian invasion began, Patil, who is unmarried, vowed not to leave without his pets. He was working as an orthopaedic doctor in a hospital in Svavtove, a small town in Severodonetsk in the Luhansk region of eastern Ukraine, reports BBC. But he could not sustain himself as the hospital where he was working closed before being bombed and it became very difficult to feed them. He used to spend $300 on food, which mostly consisted of 5 kg chicken every day after the war began. Eventually, he spent all of his savings and sold part of his farmland, two apartments, two cars, his motorcycle and camera for a little over $100,000. Patil left home in Ukraine with a bag carrying his clothes, $100 and a few thousand roubles in cash. He left the cats with a caretaker, paid him $2,400 as three months of wages and decided to cross the border, hoping one day he would earn some money and return. "As the situation worsened and bomb attacks inched closer to my home and I ran out of money, I decided to leave the cats with a caretaker, cross the border, earn some money and return," Giri told BBC. But the plan didn’t quite work out the way he thought. While trying to cross the border, he was detained by Russian soldiers on the suspicion of being a spy and was interrogated for three days. Only after he convinced them that he is not participating in the war and showed the YouTube videos he used to make with his animals that he was finally let go. But they seized his passport and issued him a paper identification and dropped him off near the Polish border. After Patil shared his ordeal with the Polish authorities, they gave him a "paper visa" which allows him to stay in the country for 90 days, he said. Then he took a night bus to Warsaw. As the situation worsens in Ukraine, Patil says he is clueless about when he will return to his cats. Though his family from the southern Andhra Pradesh state, India, is sending him money, he has been knocking on the doors of Indian embassies to get his cats back. "I have contacted the Indian embassy in Kyiv a few times on phone and WhatsApp, asking them whether they could take my cats out of Ukraine. They told me they don't deal with wild animals," he was quoted as saying. “I want my cats back. If the Indian government can pick them up and take them home to a zoo or a forest in India, it is fine. I just want to save them." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

After months of struggle, Indian doctor bids goodbye to pet jaguar, leopard in Ukraine

Ukraine is seeing another battlefield success as it began its counter-offensive in September. Kyiv has said that it has torn down Russian flags in the town of Lyman.

Russia-Ukraine War Update: Ukraine presses counteroffensive after Russian setback

"There's no question that this is a major change in the course of the war and I think the primary purpose of this annexation coupled with the military mobilisation. Putin is communicating to everybody in the world and to his own people that he is all in this war and he has committed his life and the state of Russia in this," says Lt Col (R) Daniel L. Davis, military expert.

Russia annexes 15% of Ukraine; Putin attacks West as 'Satanic', hails Russian values | WION

Russia has formally annexed four Ukrainian territories, warning Ukraine against any counter-attack. This comes as Zelensky has requested a fast-track NATO membership.

WION FINEPRINT: Russia formally annexes 4 Ukrainian regions; Ukraine applies for NATO membership

The Kremlin says it will annex four Ukrainian regions on Friday after what Ukraine and the West say were 'sham' referendum. Russia will claim control of Donetsk and Luhansk and parts of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson. The area is a home to 4 million people and make up around 15% Ukraine's territory.

Russia officially announces annexation of four provinces in Ukraine

'Star Wars' actor Mark Hamill has become the latest big name to become an ambassador for United24, the official fundraising arm of the Ukrainian government as it continues its war against Russia.

Hamill, known around the world as Luke Skywalker in the 'Star Wars' franchise, recently spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has been recruiting A-listers to raise awareness for the Russian invasion that began more than seven months ago, reports Deadline.

Also in Hollywood |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-prince-andrew-banished-trailer-explores-sexual-assault-allegations-against-the-controversial-british-royal-521178">'Prince Andrew: Banished' trailer explores sexual assault allegations against the controversial British royal</a>

The actor joins other celebrity ambassadors for the effort, including Barbra Streisand, Liev Schreiber, Imagine Dragons, soccer star Andriy Shevchenko, tennis star Elina Svitolina and Balenciaga creative director Demna among others.

Organisers said Hamill agreed to participate in United24's 'Army of Drones' project, designed to raise funds for drone procurement, repair and training. To date, the group says, Ukraine has received 986 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) totalling about $51.8 million.

"I know for certain that Ukrainians need drones to protect their land, their freedom and the values of the entire democratic world," Hamill said.

"Right now is the best time for everyone to come together and help Ukraine stand up in this war with the evil empire," he added.

Zelensky&nbsp;most recently enlisted Streisand to help spread the word about Friends of Ukraine, a United24 programme that raises money for doctors to procure medical supplies for the front lines.

United24, started by Zelensky, raised more than $180 million across 110 countries during its first four months of operations.

'Star Wars' actor Mark Hamill has become the latest big name to become an ambassador for United24, the official fundraising arm of the Ukrainian government as it continues its war against Russia.

'Star Wars' actor Mark Hamill has become the latest big name to become an ambassador for United24, the official fundraising arm of the Ukrainian government as it continues its war against Russia. Hamill, known around the world as Luke Skywalker in the 'Star Wars' franchise, recently spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has been recruiting A-listers to raise awareness for the Russian invasion that began more than seven months ago, reports Deadline. Also in Hollywood | 'Prince Andrew: Banished' trailer explores sexual assault allegations against the controversial British royal The actor joins other celebrity ambassadors for the effort, including Barbra Streisand, Liev Schreiber, Imagine Dragons, soccer star Andriy Shevchenko, tennis star Elina Svitolina and Balenciaga creative director Demna among others. Organisers said Hamill agreed to participate in United24's 'Army of Drones' project, designed to raise funds for drone procurement, repair and training. To date, the group says, Ukraine has received 986 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) totalling about $51.8 million. "I know for certain that Ukrainians need drones to protect their land, their freedom and the values of the entire democratic world," Hamill said. "Right now is the best time for everyone to come together and help Ukraine stand up in this war with the evil empire," he added. Zelensky most recently enlisted Streisand to help spread the word about Friends of Ukraine, a United24 programme that raises money for doctors to procure medical supplies for the front lines. United24, started by Zelensky, raised more than $180 million across 110 countries during its first four months of operations.

Mark Hamill joins Ukrainian fundraising efforts, calls Russia an 'evil empire'

Former US President Donald Trump has offered to negotiate a deal between Russia and Ukraine. He made this announcement on his social media platform - 'Truth Social'. Trump began his message by telling the US leadership to remain calm after the sabotage reports emerged.

Former US President Donald Trump ready to lead negotiations with Russian President Putin

With the winters fast approaching and the ongoing energy crisis due to the Russia and Ukraine war, the UK govt is now looking at the other alternatives sources of energy for home heating.

WION Climate Tracker: Blow to UK's sustainable future; plans to change existing boilers in houses

After five days of voting, Russia has released the results of its four referenda held on Ukraine territory. The Kremlin said that all the four regions voted in favour of joining Russia. Meanwhile, Ukraine and the West claimed the vote and the results are a sham.

Russia announces referendum results, claims victory in all four regions

As Russia started releasing the results of the referendums it claims are a prelude to it annexing four Ukrainian regions, one of President Vladimir Putin's allies issued a stern new nuclear warning to Ukraine and the West.

Russia-Ukraine War Update: Russia issues new nuclear warning as Ukraine referendum ends

The last of the five days of referendums on joining the Russian Federation is taking place in four Ukrainian regions partially occupied by Moscow. Kyiv and its allies have denounced the votes as a "sham".

Russia-Ukraine War Update: Voting on joining Russia in occupied parts of Ukraine enters final day

A few days back, Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia, issued the country's first call for mobilisation since World War 2. Following this announcement, many citizens attempting to avoid the army drafting hastily departed the country. Countless others are still trying to get out.

Men of military age are rushing to flee the nation in response to the Kremlin's announcement of partial mobilisation.&nbsp;According to reports, most travellers are en route to Armenia, Turkey, and Azerbaijan, countries that don't require visas for entry for Russians.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | Russia admits to mistakes during mobilisation

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-russia-admits-to-mistakes-during-mobilisation-519893/embed" width="560"></iframe>

In Moscow, the demand for seats on private planes has exponentially risen in the last few days.&nbsp;

According to the Guardian, as a result of concerns that government officials intend to bar men of mobilisation age from leaving the country, people are now paying between $21,600 and $27,000 (£20,000 and £25,000)&nbsp;for one seat on a private plane out of Russia. While those looking to book an eight-seater plane must spend between $86,500 and $151,300 (£80,000 and £140,000), which is a significant hike on the standard fare.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-grants-snowden-russian-citizenship-people-ask-will-the-whisteblower-be-drafted-into-army-519919" hreflang="en">Putin grants Snowden Russian citizenship, people ask will the whisteblower be 'drafted into army'?</a>

Guardian quoted Yevgeny Bikov the director of a broker jet company, Your Charter as saying that earlier his company used to get around 50 booking requests a day but now they get close to 5,000. "The situation is absolutely crazy at the moment," he added.

Eduard Simonov of FlightWay, a company that offers private jet flights says that the demand for one-way flights to Armenia, Turkey, Kazakhstan and Dubai has increased by 50 times.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-russians-flew-to-georgia-amid-putins-mobilisation-announcement-519944">Thousands of Russians flee to Georgia amid Putin's mobilisation announcement</a>

While the majority of one-way commercial jet tickets have already sold out for the upcoming days, Russia's border crossings, are also witnessing miles-long traffic bottlenecks.

Many worry&nbsp;that this situation is causing a brain drain in a country that, per a study, is already on track to lose 15 per cent of its millionaires this year as its wealthiest citizens leave the country.&nbsp;

This exodus is anticipated to intensify as a result of the mobilisation, which may worsen the economic harm to Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

A few days back, Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia, issued the country's first call for mobilisation since World War 2. Following this announcement, many citizens attempting to avoid the army drafting hastily departed the country.

A few days back, Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia, issued the country's first call for mobilisation since World War 2. Following this announcement, many citizens attempting to avoid the army drafting hastily departed the country. Countless others are still trying to get out. Men of military age are rushing to flee the nation in response to the Kremlin's announcement of partial mobilisation. According to reports, most travellers are en route to Armenia, Turkey, and Azerbaijan, countries that don't require visas for entry for Russians. Watch | WION Fineprint | Russia admits to mistakes during mobilisation In Moscow, the demand for seats on private planes has exponentially risen in the last few days. According to the Guardian, as a result of concerns that government officials intend to bar men of mobilisation age from leaving the country, people are now paying between $21,600 and $27,000 (£20,000 and £25,000) for one seat on a private plane out of Russia. While those looking to book an eight-seater plane must spend between $86,500 and $151,300 (£80,000 and £140,000), which is a significant hike on the standard fare. Also read | Putin grants Snowden Russian citizenship, people ask will the whisteblower be 'drafted into army'? Guardian quoted Yevgeny Bikov the director of a broker jet company, Your Charter as saying that earlier his company used to get around 50 booking requests a day but now they get close to 5,000. "The situation is absolutely crazy at the moment," he added. Eduard Simonov of FlightWay, a company that offers private jet flights says that the demand for one-way flights to Armenia, Turkey, Kazakhstan and Dubai has increased by 50 times. Also read | Thousands of Russians flee to Georgia amid Putin's mobilisation announcement While the majority of one-way commercial jet tickets have already sold out for the upcoming days, Russia's border crossings, are also witnessing miles-long traffic bottlenecks. Many worry that this situation is causing a brain drain in a country that, per a study, is already on track to lose 15 per cent of its millionaires this year as its wealthiest citizens leave the country. This exodus is anticipated to intensify as a result of the mobilisation, which may worsen the economic harm to Russia. (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.

Trying to escape mobilisation, Russians pay $27,000 for seats on private planes out of country

russia-ukraine-war

Russia Ukraine War, News on Russia Ukraine War, stories on Russia Ukraine War, articles on Russia Ukraine War, Russia Ukraine War stories at Wion, Russia Ukraine War news, Russia Ukraine War latest news

russia ukraine-war