As the Russian-Ukraine war&nbsp;rages on, several donation pages have emerged in the dark web asking for funds in cryptocurrencies for the Ukrainian cause.

Check Point Research, the threat intelligence arm of the cybersecurity solutions provider, has reported that while some are running genuine donation&nbsp;services, many fake ads have flooded the dark web.

The darknet is a part of the internet that is invisible to search engines and can only be accessed through anonymous browsers.

Several prominent organisations like BBC and Twitter have been using the dark web to bring regular updates to Russia as their services have been restricted in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

However, in the midst of all these, several scammers have been running fake donation camps to collect money with&nbsp;‘Help Ukraine’ advertisements.

“CPR has always taken a close look at the Darknet. Last year, we found advertisements for fake coronavirus services. Now, we’re seeing donation scams appear on the Darknet, as the Russia-Ukraine conflict intensifies," says Oded Vanunu, head of product vulnerabilities research at Check Point Software.

One such ad featured a mother and her children, who were in bad shape and needed money to escape the war-torn country. However, the image was unrelated and was taken out of context from a German newspaper, Vanunu said.

It said that sites such as Defend Ukraine, and an accompanying Twitter account has been found to be reliable.

The website contains a list of organisations and NGOs in Ukraine in need of assistance and solicits donations in both bitcoin and ethereum. It has received over $9m in funding since being registered in February 2022.

As the Russian-Ukraine war rages on, several donation pages have emerged in the dark web asking for funds in cryptocurrencies for the Ukrainian cause. Check Point Research, the threat intelligence arm of the cybersecurity solutions provider, has reported that while some are running genuine donation services, many fake ads have flooded the dark web.

As the Russian-Ukraine war rages on, several donation pages have emerged in the dark web asking for funds in cryptocurrencies for the Ukrainian cause. Check Point Research, the threat intelligence arm of the cybersecurity solutions provider, has reported that while some are running genuine donation services, many fake ads have flooded the dark web. The darknet is a part of the internet that is invisible to search engines and can only be accessed through anonymous browsers. Several prominent organisations like BBC and Twitter have been using the dark web to bring regular updates to Russia as their services have been restricted in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, in the midst of all these, several scammers have been running fake donation camps to collect money with ‘Help Ukraine’ advertisements. “CPR has always taken a close look at the Darknet. Last year, we found advertisements for fake coronavirus services. Now, we’re seeing donation scams appear on the Darknet, as the Russia-Ukraine conflict intensifies," says Oded Vanunu, head of product vulnerabilities research at Check Point Software. One such ad featured a mother and her children, who were in bad shape and needed money to escape the war-torn country. However, the image was unrelated and was taken out of context from a German newspaper, Vanunu said. It said that sites such as Defend Ukraine, and an accompanying Twitter account has been found to be reliable. The website contains a list of organisations and NGOs in Ukraine in need of assistance and solicits donations in both bitcoin and ethereum. It has received over $9m in funding since being registered in February 2022.

Cashing in on Ukrainian war: Scammers running crypto scam on dark web, says report

Amidst the shelling, sandbags and security forces clashing, these musicians are playing to add their bit of sweetness to the bitter air in Odesa, Ukraine.

Melodious background to Ukraine's bitter reality

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.

Amidst the Russian-Ukraine war that is set complete a month, calls are growing for Russian President Vladamir Putin’s rumoured girlfriend to be expelled from her luxurious house in Switzerland.

The opponents of Putin&nbsp;have launched a petition on change.org urging the Swiss to extradite 38-year-old Alina Kabaeva, a former athlete, claiming that she is hiding with their secret children in a luxury villa, reports Mirror.

The petition in German, French and English, is said to have attracted almost 55,000 signatures and has mostly citizens from Ukraine, Russia, and its ally Belarus.

Comparing Kabaeva to Hilter’s wife, the petition says, “It's time you reunite Eva Braun with her Führer.”

“Despite the current war, Switzerland continues to host an accomplice of Putin's regime,” it adds, as it lists Kabaeva’s many crimes.

It added that it was time for the neutral country “to take action” and send her home to Putin, 69.

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It is being claimed that the Olympic gold medallist was sent to a private chalet in Switzerland earlier this month amidst the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

However, a separate report suggests that Kabaeva is rather housed at a hi-tech underground bunker in the Altai Mountains of Siberia.

She has released only one statement linked to the war where she slammed the refusal to allow the Russian team to compete at the Beijing Paralympics.

Who is Kabaeva?

Kabaeva, an Olympic gold medallist, is known as Russia’s “most flexible woman”. There are claims that Putin and she got married in a secret ceremony after he divorced his first wife Lyudmila in 2013.

However, the Kremlin has always dismissed all the reports as rumours.

The former gymnast enjoys quite a few privileges in Russia. She spent six years as a member of parliament in Putin’s United Russia Party.

In September 2014, she quit the party to take charge of Russia’s National Media Group, which had a stake in Channel One, one of the state-controlled television channels, along with other newspapers. She headed the media holding for more than even years, where she earned an annual salary of £8 million, reports the British tabloid&nbsp;Daily Mail.

(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.

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. Amidst the Russian-Ukraine war that is set complete a month, calls are growing for Russian President Vladamir Putin’s rumoured girlfriend to be expelled from her luxurious house in Switzerland. The opponents of Putin have launched a petition on change.org urging the Swiss to extradite 38-year-old Alina Kabaeva, a former athlete, claiming that she is hiding with their secret children in a luxury villa, reports Mirror. The petition in German, French and English, is said to have attracted almost 55,000 signatures and has mostly citizens from Ukraine, Russia, and its ally Belarus. Comparing Kabaeva to Hilter’s wife, the petition says, “It's time you reunite Eva Braun with her Führer.” “Despite the current war, Switzerland continues to host an accomplice of Putin's regime,” it adds, as it lists Kabaeva’s many crimes. It added that it was time for the neutral country “to take action” and send her home to Putin, 69. View this post on Instagram A post shared by АЛИНА КАБАЕВА |ФАН-СООБЩЕСТВО| (@alinakabaeva.official) × It is being claimed that the Olympic gold medallist was sent to a private chalet in Switzerland earlier this month amidst the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, a separate report suggests that Kabaeva is rather housed at a hi-tech underground bunker in the Altai Mountains of Siberia. She has released only one statement linked to the war where she slammed the refusal to allow the Russian team to compete at the Beijing Paralympics. Who is Kabaeva? Kabaeva, an Olympic gold medallist, is known as Russia’s “most flexible woman”. There are claims that Putin and she got married in a secret ceremony after he divorced his first wife Lyudmila in 2013. However, the Kremlin has always dismissed all the reports as rumours. The former gymnast enjoys quite a few privileges in Russia. She spent six years as a member of parliament in Putin’s United Russia Party. In September 2014, she quit the party to take charge of Russia’s National Media Group, which had a stake in Channel One, one of the state-controlled television channels, along with other newspapers. She headed the media holding for more than even years, where she earned an annual salary of £8 million, reports the British tabloid Daily Mail. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Putin’s girlfriend? And why is she trending amidst Russia-Ukraine war?

Russia must adhere to the United Nations Charter, British Prime Minister&nbsp;Boris&nbsp;Johnson and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said during a call on Tuesday, according to a readout provided by Johnson's office.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has created a rift between India, which imports arms from Russia, and its Western allies, who have called on India to condemn Russian President Vladimir Putin in stronger terms.

"The pair agreed that Ukraine’s integrity and territorial sovereignty must be respected," a statement issued by Johnson's office following the call said.

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"Russia needed to adhere to the UN Charter, the leaders said, and both agreed that respect for international law was the only way to ensure global peace and prosperity."

Johnson also said both countries needed to intensify efforts to promote peace and de-escalation in the region.

The British readout of the call said Johnson told Modi Russia's actions were "deeply disturbing and disastrous for the world". It did not indicate Modi's response to this point.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/walls-dreams-and-genocide-zelenskyy-invokes-history-to-rally-support-464564">Walls, dreams and genocide: Zelenskyy invokes history to rally support</a>

US&nbsp;President Joe Biden has said only India among the Quad group of countries was "somewhat shaky" in acting against Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.

India and Britain are currently in talks over a trade deal, but UK trade minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan has said that India's refusal to condemn Russia's actions has left Britain "very disappointed."

"Prime minister recognises that India has an important role to play in its relationship with Putin and his regime, and certainly he urged him to continue to join... the condemnation of Putin," Johnson's spokesman told reporters.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine faces intense Russian assault, defies Russian demand to lay down arms

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-faces-intense-russian-assault-defies-russian-demand-to-lay-down-arms-464666/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

India has also indicated it might take Russia up on an offer to buy crude oil at a discount.

Johnson's spokesman said Britain wanted all countries to move away from reliance on Russian oil and gas, but each country was coming from a different starting point.

"The prime minister believes the best way to broaden that coalition and to bring people with us is through is through diplomacy," he said.

Russia must adhere to the United Nations Charter, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said during a call on Tuesday, according to a readout provided by Johnson's office.

Russia must adhere to the United Nations Charter, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said during a call on Tuesday, according to a readout provided by Johnson's office. Russia's invasion of Ukraine has created a rift between India, which imports arms from Russia, and its Western allies, who have called on India to condemn Russian President Vladimir Putin in stronger terms. "The pair agreed that Ukraine’s integrity and territorial sovereignty must be respected," a statement issued by Johnson's office following the call said. Also read | Ukraine conflict creates 'noodle crisis' in Indonesia "Russia needed to adhere to the UN Charter, the leaders said, and both agreed that respect for international law was the only way to ensure global peace and prosperity." Johnson also said both countries needed to intensify efforts to promote peace and de-escalation in the region. The British readout of the call said Johnson told Modi Russia's actions were "deeply disturbing and disastrous for the world". It did not indicate Modi's response to this point. Also read | Walls, dreams and genocide: Zelenskyy invokes history to rally support US President Joe Biden has said only India among the Quad group of countries was "somewhat shaky" in acting against Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. India and Britain are currently in talks over a trade deal, but UK trade minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan has said that India's refusal to condemn Russia's actions has left Britain "very disappointed." "Prime minister recognises that India has an important role to play in its relationship with Putin and his regime, and certainly he urged him to continue to join... the condemnation of Putin," Johnson's spokesman told reporters. Watch | Ukraine faces intense Russian assault, defies Russian demand to lay down arms India has also indicated it might take Russia up on an offer to buy crude oil at a discount. Johnson's spokesman said Britain wanted all countries to move away from reliance on Russian oil and gas, but each country was coming from a different starting point. "The prime minister believes the best way to broaden that coalition and to bring people with us is through is through diplomacy," he said.

Russia must adhere to UN Charter, say UK and India

No agreement has been reached so far at the Russian-Ukrainian peace talks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday.

Calling on the countries to exert influence over Ukraine to make Kyiv more constructive at the negotiations, Peskov said significant progress in the talks is yet to be achieved to enable a possible meeting between President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky.

"So far, no significant progress has been made. So far, [it is early] to talk about the meeting of the two presidents, they will simply have nothing to fix. There are no agreements that they can fix," Peskov told reporters, according to Sputnik news agency.

Every actor in the world should now use their influence on Kyiv to make it more willing to reach agreements, the spokesman added.

"Actually, the choice of a place for some such hypothetical meeting is a secondary issue, although we are certainly grateful to all those countries that declare their desire to help such a negotiation process," he added.

The Kremlin’s reaction came a day after Zelensky expressed willingness to negotiate with Putin.

He, however, added that the negotiations could lead to a much bigger global conflict if the talks break down.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-heavy-bombardment-follows-mariupol-forced-to-bury-dead-on-roadside-in-makeshift-graves-464161">As heavy bombardment follows, Mariupol forced to bury dead on roadside</a>

“I’m ready for negotiations with him. I was ready for the last two years. And I think that without negotiations we cannot end this war,” Zelensky told CNN in an interview.

“I think that we have to use any format, any chance in order to have a possibility of negotiating, the possibility of talking to Putin. But if these attempts fail, that would mean that this is a third World War.”

Meanwhile, Russian bombings continue to pummel Ukraine as the war entered 26th&nbsp;day on Monday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-us-president-biden-to-visit-poland-on-europe-trip-this-week-464181">Ukraine-Russia conflict: US President Biden to visit Poland this week</a>

More Russian troops are heading towards Kyiv, as per reports, as renewed overnight shelling killed at least eight people at a shopping mall in the capital.

Almost 350,000 people are trapped without water and electricity in the port city of Mariupol, which has been bombarded by Russian troops for almost a month in what has been described as a "massive war crime" by EU policy chief Josep Borrell.

Ukrainian leaders also stressed they were standing firm against invaders in Mariupol, which is suffering a critical humanitarian crisis.

(With inputs from agencies)

No agreement has been reached so far at the Russian-Ukrainian peace talks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday. Calling on the countries to exert influence over Ukraine to make Kyiv more constructive at the negotiations, Peskov said significant progress in the talks is yet to be achieved to enable a possible meeting between President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky.

No agreement has been reached so far at the Russian-Ukrainian peace talks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday. Calling on the countries to exert influence over Ukraine to make Kyiv more constructive at the negotiations, Peskov said significant progress in the talks is yet to be achieved to enable a possible meeting between President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky. "So far, no significant progress has been made. So far, [it is early] to talk about the meeting of the two presidents, they will simply have nothing to fix. There are no agreements that they can fix," Peskov told reporters, according to Sputnik news agency. Every actor in the world should now use their influence on Kyiv to make it more willing to reach agreements, the spokesman added. "Actually, the choice of a place for some such hypothetical meeting is a secondary issue, although we are certainly grateful to all those countries that declare their desire to help such a negotiation process," he added. The Kremlin’s reaction came a day after Zelensky expressed willingness to negotiate with Putin. He, however, added that the negotiations could lead to a much bigger global conflict if the talks break down. Also read | As heavy bombardment follows, Mariupol forced to bury dead on roadside “I’m ready for negotiations with him. I was ready for the last two years. And I think that without negotiations we cannot end this war,” Zelensky told CNN in an interview. “I think that we have to use any format, any chance in order to have a possibility of negotiating, the possibility of talking to Putin. But if these attempts fail, that would mean that this is a third World War.” Meanwhile, Russian bombings continue to pummel Ukraine as the war entered 26th day on Monday. Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: US President Biden to visit Poland this week More Russian troops are heading towards Kyiv, as per reports, as renewed overnight shelling killed at least eight people at a shopping mall in the capital. Almost 350,000 people are trapped without water and electricity in the port city of Mariupol, which has been bombarded by Russian troops for almost a month in what has been described as a "massive war crime" by EU policy chief Josep Borrell. Ukrainian leaders also stressed they were standing firm against invaders in Mariupol, which is suffering a critical humanitarian crisis. (With inputs from agencies)

No breakthrough yet at Russia-Ukraine peace talks, says Kremlin

Formula One drivers will gather together on the grid ahead of Sunday's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix to raise awareness of UNICEF's emergency fundraising appeal for its programmes helping children and families in Ukraine and other conflict zones, the sport said on Sunday.

The 20 drivers will stand on the grid behind a banner in support of the appeal, urging fans to consider donating to the United Nations children's agency's appeal.

Formula One and teams have already made a "generous donation", the sport said, without specifying a number.

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Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24.

Over three million have fled the fighting for other countries, according to United Nations data, in what has become Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War Two.

Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special military operation".

Formula One drivers will gather together on the grid ahead of Sunday's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix to raise awareness of UNICEF's emergency fundraising appeal for its programmes helping children and families in Ukraine and other conflict zones, the sport said on Sunday.

Formula One drivers will gather together on the grid ahead of Sunday's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix to raise awareness of UNICEF's emergency fundraising appeal for its programmes helping children and families in Ukraine and other conflict zones, the sport said on Sunday. The 20 drivers will stand on the grid behind a banner in support of the appeal, urging fans to consider donating to the United Nations children's agency's appeal. Formula One and teams have already made a "generous donation", the sport said, without specifying a number. ALSO READ: T Natarajan breaks a stump into two as Sunrisers Hyderabad pacer breathes fire ahead of IPL 2022 - WATCH Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24. Over three million have fled the fighting for other countries, according to United Nations data, in what has become Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War Two. Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special military operation".

F1 drivers to support UNICEF's emergency fundraising appeal for Ukraine

A 36-year-old Chinese vlogger, who lives in Ukraine’s southern Odesa city, has been branded as a “national traitor” by his own people back home for simply posting videos of war-torn Ukraine.

Wang Jixian, a Beijing-born programmer, unintentionally became the voice of resistance in Ukraine when he posted videos of his whereabouts to let his parents know that he was doing fine amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine, CNN reported.

It all started on February 24, the first day of the invasion, when Jixian posed a clip on Douyin, China's version of TikTok, to describe how things were normal despite the looming war.

In the video, he purportedly says, "I'm coming back from buying groceries".

But as the days passed, the Russian assault on Ukraine escalated. When he would log into Douyin, Jixian would see Chinese people praising the Russian troops or supporting the invasion.

"I was very angry, then I thought I would record videos for them, and I'll tell them what the real battlefield is," he told CNN.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/telegram-emerges-as-frontrunner-amid-russias-crackdown-on-facebook-instagram-463783" hreflang="en">Telegram emerges as frontrunner amid Russia’s crackdown on Facebook, Instagram</a>

He soon started getting active across several social media apps like YouTube and the Chinese messaging app WeChat and started posting videos to sensitise the people about the war.

His effort paid off and soon, he quickly gained traction for offering an independent perspective on the war, contrary to the Chinese media which has been propagating the Russian claims of dethroning the “Nazi regime”.

In one video, the man holds up his Chinese passport and says "These Ukrainian guards are not Nazis, they are IT programmers, common people, barbers -- these are the people", CNN reported.

However, the rise to fame was soon followed by the detractors slamming him for not siding with the Chinese views, going as far as calling him a “national traitor”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/all-you-need-to-know-about-kinzhal-hypersonic-missiles-that-russia-used-in-ukraine-for-the-first-time-463754" hreflang="en">All you need to know about Kinzhal hypersonic missiles that Russia 'used in Ukraine for the first time'</a>

According to CNN, one critic told Jixian on Douyin, “You don't need this Chinese passport anymore, you have already forgotten which country you are from,” adding, "The official position of the country should be the position of all Chinese people.”

Despite facing global pressure, China has so far taken a neutral stand on the Russia-Ukraine war and said Moscow's "legitimate security concerns" should be taken seriously.

There have been reports of China sending military and economic aid to Russia—which Beijing denies.

Watch |&nbsp;Week 4 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: Zelensky renews calls for talks with Russia

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(With inputs from agencies)

A 36-year-old Chinese vlogger, who lives in Ukraine’s southern Odesa city, has been branded as a “national traitor” by his own people back home for simply posting videos of war-torn Ukraine.

A 36-year-old Chinese vlogger, who lives in Ukraine’s southern Odesa city, has been branded as a “national traitor” by his own people back home for simply posting videos of war-torn Ukraine. Wang Jixian, a Beijing-born programmer, unintentionally became the voice of resistance in Ukraine when he posted videos of his whereabouts to let his parents know that he was doing fine amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine, CNN reported. It all started on February 24, the first day of the invasion, when Jixian posed a clip on Douyin, China's version of TikTok, to describe how things were normal despite the looming war. In the video, he purportedly says, "I'm coming back from buying groceries". But as the days passed, the Russian assault on Ukraine escalated. When he would log into Douyin, Jixian would see Chinese people praising the Russian troops or supporting the invasion. "I was very angry, then I thought I would record videos for them, and I'll tell them what the real battlefield is," he told CNN. Also read | Telegram emerges as frontrunner amid Russia’s crackdown on Facebook, Instagram He soon started getting active across several social media apps like YouTube and the Chinese messaging app WeChat and started posting videos to sensitise the people about the war. His effort paid off and soon, he quickly gained traction for offering an independent perspective on the war, contrary to the Chinese media which has been propagating the Russian claims of dethroning the “Nazi regime”. In one video, the man holds up his Chinese passport and says "These Ukrainian guards are not Nazis, they are IT programmers, common people, barbers -- these are the people", CNN reported. However, the rise to fame was soon followed by the detractors slamming him for not siding with the Chinese views, going as far as calling him a “national traitor”. Also read | All you need to know about Kinzhal hypersonic missiles that Russia 'used in Ukraine for the first time' According to CNN, one critic told Jixian on Douyin, “You don't need this Chinese passport anymore, you have already forgotten which country you are from,” adding, "The official position of the country should be the position of all Chinese people.” Despite facing global pressure, China has so far taken a neutral stand on the Russia-Ukraine war and said Moscow's "legitimate security concerns" should be taken seriously. There have been reports of China sending military and economic aid to Russia—which Beijing denies. Watch | Week 4 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: Zelensky renews calls for talks with Russia (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese vlogger in Ukraine branded ‘national traitor’ for siding with Kyiv in Russian war

Pope Francis on Friday decried the war in Ukraine terming it a "perverse abuse of power" waged for partisan interests and called for aid to Ukrainians who “have been attacked in their identity, history and tradition” and were “defending their land.”

Without naming Russia, Francis condemned the war during a message to a Catholic Church conference in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia.

“The tragedy of the war taking place in the heart of Europe has left us stunned,” he said, adding that few people would have imagined scenes similar to the two world wars in the 20th century.

“Once more humanity is threatened by a perverse abuse of power and partisan interests which condemns defenceless people to suffer every form of brutal violence,” he said, according to Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-conflict-in-no-ones-interest-says-president-xi-to-biden-463557">Ukraine war: Conflict in no one's interest, says President Xi to Biden</a>

The Pope also rejected the term “special military operation”—a phrase used by Russia which says that its intention is to demilitarise and “de-Nazify” its neighbour rather than occupying the territory.

“The blood and tears of children, the suffering of women and men who are defending their land or fleeing from bombardments shakes our conscience,” he said.

On&nbsp;March 16, the Pope held a video call with Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church, an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to reports.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-have-not-had-unity-like-this-for-a-long-time-says-putin-at-a-concert-amid-ukraine-war-463574">We have not had unity like this for a long time, says Putin at a concert</a>

Kirill, 75, has made statements defending Moscow’s actions in Ukraine and sees the war as a bulwark against a West he considers decadent, particularly over the acceptance of homosexuality.

The Vatican said the Pope told Kirill: “The ones who pay the price of war are the people, the Russian soldiers and the people who are bombarded and die.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis on Friday decried the war in Ukraine terming it a "perverse abuse of power" waged for partisan interests and called for aid to Ukrainians who “have been attacked in their identity, history and tradition” and were “defending their land.

Pope Francis on Friday decried the war in Ukraine terming it a "perverse abuse of power" waged for partisan interests and called for aid to Ukrainians who “have been attacked in their identity, history and tradition” and were “defending their land.” Without naming Russia, Francis condemned the war during a message to a Catholic Church conference in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. “The tragedy of the war taking place in the heart of Europe has left us stunned,” he said, adding that few people would have imagined scenes similar to the two world wars in the 20th century. “Once more humanity is threatened by a perverse abuse of power and partisan interests which condemns defenceless people to suffer every form of brutal violence,” he said, according to Reuters. Also read | Ukraine war: Conflict in no one's interest, says President Xi to Biden The Pope also rejected the term “special military operation”—a phrase used by Russia which says that its intention is to demilitarise and “de-Nazify” its neighbour rather than occupying the territory. “The blood and tears of children, the suffering of women and men who are defending their land or fleeing from bombardments shakes our conscience,” he said. On March 16, the Pope held a video call with Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church, an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to reports. Also read | We have not had unity like this for a long time, says Putin at a concert Kirill, 75, has made statements defending Moscow’s actions in Ukraine and sees the war as a bulwark against a West he considers decadent, particularly over the acceptance of homosexuality. The Vatican said the Pope told Kirill: “The ones who pay the price of war are the people, the Russian soldiers and the people who are bombarded and die.” (With inputs from agencies)

Without naming Russia, Pope Francis decries 'perverse abuse of power' in Ukraine war

Russian businessman Roman Abramovich transferred a company he controlled with tens of millions of dollars of investments to a director of English soccer club Chelsea on the day Russia invaded Ukraine, UK corporate filings showed.

It was the second time Chelsea owner Abramovich moved assets to a close associate before Britain and the European Union imposed sanctions on him this month.

After Britain was initially slower than the United States and the European Union in imposing sanctions following the Feb. 24 invasion, British lawmakers complained that the government was giving oligarchs time to move their assets out of the country before any curbs were announced.

Abramovich did not respond to requests for comment left with Chelsea and his spokesperson. A British government spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment.

Abramovich, 55, became one of Russia`s most powerful entrepreneurs mostly from oil and aluminium during the chaotic aftermath of the 1991 break-up of the Soviet Union. Forbes last month put his net worth at more than $13 billion.

Britain and the EU imposed sanctions such as asset freezes on Abramovich and hundreds of Russian individuals and entities, targeting people accused of propping up Russian President Vladimir Putin. 
Abramovich has denied having close to links to Putin.

A Reuters analysis of corporate filings in London and Amsterdam showed Abramovich was previously listed as the "beneficial owner" of Cyprus-based Ervington Investments Limited. The company has made investments in at least eight firms, including in Russia`s top search engine Yandex, the filings showed.

On Feb. 24, Eugene Tenenbaum, a director of Chelsea who is described on the club website as one of Abramovich`s "closest associates", took full control of Ervington, according to a filing with the London Stock Exchange. Neither Britain, the EU nor the United States has placed sanctions on Tenenbaum.

Tenenbaum said in a statement to Reuters that his company purchased Ervington Investments from a trust in which Abramovich and his children were previously the beneficiaries. He said the purchase from the trust, called Norma Investments, was in compliance with laws and regulations. Tenenbaum declined to say how much he paid for the stake.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-quarterfinals-draw-chesela-to-take-on-real-madrid-manchester-city-face-atletico-463473">UEFA Champions League quarterfinals draw: Chesela to take on Real Madrid, Manchester City face Atletico</a>

"Ervington is a company that I have worked with for many years," he said. "I know the company`s investments and employees well, and buying Ervington provides me with an opportunity to continue to work with this business, under my control and for my, and the employees` benefit."

ASSET MOVEMENTS

London-based lawyers said the move meant that the assets held by Ervington would not be subject to the freeze imposed on Abramovich`s other assets.

Abramovich has handed control of two companies to business associates since the war began, according to corporate filings.

Also on the first day of Russia`s attack on Ukraine, which Moscow calls a special operation, Abramovich moved Norma Investments to another associate, David Davidovich, UK corporate filings showed. The Norma transfer was first reported by the Wall Street Journal and has been confirmed in the filings.

Reuters was unable to reach Davidovich immediately for comment.

Britain imposed sanctions on Abramovich on March 10, saying he had profited from transactions with the Russian government and special tax breaks.

The British government said Evraz, a steel company in which Abramovich is the largest shareholder, could contribute to the war against Ukraine and supply steel for Russian tanks. Evraz has denied this, saying it only supplies steel to the infrastructure and construction sectors.

Evraz has not been sanctioned by the British government. Its London-listed shares were suspended by Britain`s Financial Conduct Authority after Abramovich was sanctioned. Tenenbaum was among 10 of Evraz`s board members who quit on March 11 because of the Abramovich sanctions, the company said.

Abramovich put reigning European champions Chelsea up for sale on March 2, but following the sanctions announcement, the club was made to operate under a special licence and is now effectively controlled by the British government.

Several potential buyers of Chelsea have confirmed their interest and the deadline for the first round of bids is Friday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-will-continue-to-fight-hard-for-success-says-coach-thomas-tuchel-amid-roman-abramovich-crisis-462608">Chelsea will continue to fight hard for success, says coach Thomas Tuchel amid Roman Abramovich crisis</a>

Tenenbaum, 57, was born in Ukraine when it was part of the Soviet Union and has been on Chelsea`s board for 19 years. He was previously the head of corporate finance at Sibneft, an oil company sold in 2006 by Abramovich. Tenenbaum said in his statement that he does not agree with the way Abramovich has been publicly characterised.

The British government said when it sanctioned Abramovich that he had been a close ally of Putin for decades. 
"It is my hope that the unjust measures imposed on Mr Abramovich will be reassessed," he said. "Unfortunately, as a British citizen and due to the new regulations, I am unable to continue to work with him personally."

Ervington has served as an investment vehicle for Abramovich for at least eight years. It was among investors who put $600 million into Yandex in 2020 and who put money into Via, a ride-sharing app.

Tenenbaum moved to Canada at a young age and previously worked for accounting firm KPMG in Toronto, Moscow and London, according to the Chelsea website.

Russian businessman Roman Abramovich transferred a company he controlled with tens of millions of dollars of investments to a director of English soccer club Chelsea on the day Russia invaded Ukraine, UK corporate filings showed.

Russian businessman Roman Abramovich transferred a company he controlled with tens of millions of dollars of investments to a director of English soccer club Chelsea on the day Russia invaded Ukraine, UK corporate filings showed. It was the second time Chelsea owner Abramovich moved assets to a close associate before Britain and the European Union imposed sanctions on him this month. After Britain was initially slower than the United States and the European Union in imposing sanctions following the Feb. 24 invasion, British lawmakers complained that the government was giving oligarchs time to move their assets out of the country before any curbs were announced. Abramovich did not respond to requests for comment left with Chelsea and his spokesperson. A British government spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment. Abramovich, 55, became one of Russia`s most powerful entrepreneurs mostly from oil and aluminium during the chaotic aftermath of the 1991 break-up of the Soviet Union. Forbes last month put his net worth at more than $13 billion. Britain and the EU imposed sanctions such as asset freezes on Abramovich and hundreds of Russian individuals and entities, targeting people accused of propping up Russian President Vladimir Putin. Abramovich has denied having close to links to Putin. A Reuters analysis of corporate filings in London and Amsterdam showed Abramovich was previously listed as the "beneficial owner" of Cyprus-based Ervington Investments Limited. The company has made investments in at least eight firms, including in Russia`s top search engine Yandex, the filings showed. On Feb. 24, Eugene Tenenbaum, a director of Chelsea who is described on the club website as one of Abramovich`s "closest associates", took full control of Ervington, according to a filing with the London Stock Exchange. Neither Britain, the EU nor the United States has placed sanctions on Tenenbaum. Tenenbaum said in a statement to Reuters that his company purchased Ervington Investments from a trust in which Abramovich and his children were previously the beneficiaries. He said the purchase from the trust, called Norma Investments, was in compliance with laws and regulations. Tenenbaum declined to say how much he paid for the stake. Also Read: UEFA Champions League quarterfinals draw: Chesela to take on Real Madrid, Manchester City face Atletico "Ervington is a company that I have worked with for many years," he said. "I know the company`s investments and employees well, and buying Ervington provides me with an opportunity to continue to work with this business, under my control and for my, and the employees` benefit." ASSET MOVEMENTS London-based lawyers said the move meant that the assets held by Ervington would not be subject to the freeze imposed on Abramovich`s other assets. Abramovich has handed control of two companies to business associates since the war began, according to corporate filings. Also on the first day of Russia`s attack on Ukraine, which Moscow calls a special operation, Abramovich moved Norma Investments to another associate, David Davidovich, UK corporate filings showed. The Norma transfer was first reported by the Wall Street Journal and has been confirmed in the filings. Reuters was unable to reach Davidovich immediately for comment. Britain imposed sanctions on Abramovich on March 10, saying he had profited from transactions with the Russian government and special tax breaks. The British government said Evraz, a steel company in which Abramovich is the largest shareholder, could contribute to the war against Ukraine and supply steel for Russian tanks. Evraz has denied this, saying it only supplies steel to the infrastructure and construction sectors. Evraz has not been sanctioned by the British government. Its London-listed shares were suspended by Britain`s Financial Conduct Authority after Abramovich was sanctioned. Tenenbaum was among 10 of Evraz`s board members who quit on March 11 because of the Abramovich sanctions, the company said. Abramovich put reigning European champions Chelsea up for sale on March 2, but following the sanctions announcement, the club was made to operate under a special licence and is now effectively controlled by the British government. Several potential buyers of Chelsea have confirmed their interest and the deadline for the first round of bids is Friday. Also Read: Chelsea will continue to fight hard for success, says coach Thomas Tuchel amid Roman Abramovich crisis Tenenbaum, 57, was born in Ukraine when it was part of the Soviet Union and has been on Chelsea`s board for 19 years. He was previously the head of corporate finance at Sibneft, an oil company sold in 2006 by Abramovich. Tenenbaum said in his statement that he does not agree with the way Abramovich has been publicly characterised. The British government said when it sanctioned Abramovich that he had been a close ally of Putin for decades. "It is my hope that the unjust measures imposed on Mr Abramovich will be reassessed," he said. "Unfortunately, as a British citizen and due to the new regulations, I am unable to continue to work with him personally." Ervington has served as an investment vehicle for Abramovich for at least eight years. It was among investors who put $600 million into Yandex in 2020 and who put money into Via, a ride-sharing app. Tenenbaum moved to Canada at a young age and previously worked for accounting firm KPMG in Toronto, Moscow and London, according to the Chelsea website.

Roman Abramovich handed Chelsea director control of firm on day of Ukraine invasion

Russia’s war on Ukraine is causing a strategic re-think in Finland, which shares a 1300-km border with Russia.

Though Finland has remained militarily non-aligned, the country has been a member of the European Union and a partner of NATO. However, Finn leaders are now contemplating formally joining the NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), a political and military alliance of countries in Europe and North America.

Notably, it was the growing proximity to the NATO and US that led to Russia's invasion and the ongoing war on Ukraine.

To better understand Finland's stance, WION spoke to Ritva Koukku-Ronde, Finland's Ambassador to India.

According to the diplomat, the Government of Finland is looking at the security situation in Europe and discussing to prepare a White Paper assessing their security situation, which will be followed by a parliamentary discussion.

She added that the country was having this discussion in a relatively short duration and also working closely with Sweden and NATO countries.

When queried on Russia's warning (threat of political and military consequences) against any move by Finland and Sweden to join NATO, she said that every independent and sovereign country has the right to make their decisions on choosing who their allies are and not.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-russias-advance-halts-in-ukraine-us-warns-china-over-backing-putin-463300">As Russia's advance halts in Ukraine, US warns China over backing Putin</a>

"It is the right of independent Finland to make own security and other decisions, just as it is for Ukraine. Of course, Ukraine's sovereignty should be respected and, in this case, Russia has strongly violated international laws and the UN Charter with its aggression. Finland, European Union and a majority of international community condemns this one-sided aggression.”

At a time when Russian troops continue their attack on Ukraine, Russia's “militarily non-aligned” neighbour Finland is taking part in 'Cold Response 2022', a military exercise of troops from NATO countries.

When this was pointed out, the ambassador said, "Finland is militarily non-aligned, but we are a partner in NATO, and we are traditionally exercising with NATO partners and Nordic countries. This exercise is also part of regular exercises which we had planned a very long time ago. The coincidence is now the Russian aggression, which has taken all of us by surprise.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/norway-prepared-for-up-to-100000-ukraine-refugees-says-pm-jonas-gahr-stoere-463453">Norway prepared for up to 100,000 Ukraine refugees, says PM</a>

On how Russia would see the ‘Exercise Cold Response 2022’ happening at this time, Finland's top diplomat said that it was for Russia, as an independent country, to think the way they do over these exercises.

However, she mentioned that Finland, as an independent nation, had the right to exercise its military capabilities and this exercise is a part of that. "Finnish defence is totally interoperable with NATO forces and it is good to train every now and then.”

"We always take our time on preparing carefully… The security assessment is underway… Most probably it would be completed during spring and let's see what happens after that and what is the situation,” she replied on the question regarding when Finland would decide on joining NATO formally as a member.

Russia’s war on Ukraine is causing a strategic re-think in Finland, which shares a 1300-km border with Russia. Though Finland has remained militarily non-aligned, the country has been a member of the European Union and a partner of NATO.

Russia’s war on Ukraine is causing a strategic re-think in Finland, which shares a 1300-km border with Russia. Though Finland has remained militarily non-aligned, the country has been a member of the European Union and a partner of NATO. However, Finn leaders are now contemplating formally joining the NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), a political and military alliance of countries in Europe and North America. Notably, it was the growing proximity to the NATO and US that led to Russia's invasion and the ongoing war on Ukraine. To better understand Finland's stance, WION spoke to Ritva Koukku-Ronde, Finland's Ambassador to India. According to the diplomat, the Government of Finland is looking at the security situation in Europe and discussing to prepare a White Paper assessing their security situation, which will be followed by a parliamentary discussion. She added that the country was having this discussion in a relatively short duration and also working closely with Sweden and NATO countries. When queried on Russia's warning (threat of political and military consequences) against any move by Finland and Sweden to join NATO, she said that every independent and sovereign country has the right to make their decisions on choosing who their allies are and not. Also read | As Russia's advance halts in Ukraine, US warns China over backing Putin "It is the right of independent Finland to make own security and other decisions, just as it is for Ukraine. Of course, Ukraine's sovereignty should be respected and, in this case, Russia has strongly violated international laws and the UN Charter with its aggression. Finland, European Union and a majority of international community condemns this one-sided aggression.” At a time when Russian troops continue their attack on Ukraine, Russia's “militarily non-aligned” neighbour Finland is taking part in 'Cold Response 2022', a military exercise of troops from NATO countries. When this was pointed out, the ambassador said, "Finland is militarily non-aligned, but we are a partner in NATO, and we are traditionally exercising with NATO partners and Nordic countries. This exercise is also part of regular exercises which we had planned a very long time ago. The coincidence is now the Russian aggression, which has taken all of us by surprise.” Also read | Norway prepared for up to 100,000 Ukraine refugees, says PM On how Russia would see the ‘Exercise Cold Response 2022’ happening at this time, Finland's top diplomat said that it was for Russia, as an independent country, to think the way they do over these exercises. However, she mentioned that Finland, as an independent nation, had the right to exercise its military capabilities and this exercise is a part of that. "Finnish defence is totally interoperable with NATO forces and it is good to train every now and then.” "We always take our time on preparing carefully… The security assessment is underway… Most probably it would be completed during spring and let's see what happens after that and what is the situation,” she replied on the question regarding when Finland would decide on joining NATO formally as a member.

‘Security assessment underway, Finland could join NATO by spring', Finnish envoy to India tells WION

Ukraine refugee crisis raises other concerns; fleeing women & minors may be targetted for trafficking

The Russian government announced Tuesday it would leave the Council of Europe amid mounting calls for Moscow to be expelled over its invasion of Ukraine.

Having essentially jumped before being expelled from the Strasbourg-based body, the Russian foreign ministry informed Secretary-General Marija Pejcinovic Buric of its departure.

As a result of the decision, Russia ends its quarter-century membership in the Council of Europe (COE) and opens the door to the reimposition of the death penalty if the authorities so choose.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/courage-of-true-friends-of-ukraine-european-leaders-defiant-visit-to-kyiv-amid-growing-tension-with-russia-462717">'Courage of true friends of Ukraine': European leaders' defiant visit to Kyiv amid growing tension with Russia</a>

By leaving the Council of Europe, Russia will no longer be a signatory to the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and its citizens will lose access to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR).

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Responsibility for destruction of the common humanitarian space on the continent &amp; the consequences for Council of Europe – which, without Russia, will lose its pan-European character – will be borne solely by those who are forcing us to take this step. 
 
🔗<a href="https://t.co/79kDQi3E0N">https://t.co/79kDQi3E0N</a> <a href="https://t.co/j0maChWWUT">pic.twitter.com/j0maChWWUT</a>
— MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) <a href="https://twitter.com/mfa_russia/status/1503834772719738883?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Russia's exit will represent a major change to the ECHR, which serves as the court of last resort when all domestic options have been exhausted.

In the history of the Council of Europe, this is only the second time a member state has announced it is leaving the organisation, the first being Greece which temporarily left in the late 1960s.

A day after tens of thousands of troops entered Ukraine on February 24, Russia was stripped of all representation rights.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imitation-the-sincerest-form-of-flattery-french-president-discards-suits-dons-sweatshirt-copying-zelensky-462399" hreflang="en">Imitation, the sincerest form of flattery: French President discards suits, dons sweatshirt. Copying Zelensky?</a>

"As leaders of the Council of Europe we expressed on several occasions our firm condemnation of the Russian Federation’s aggression against Ukraine," the Italian Foreign Minister, Luigi Di Maio, the president of the Council of Europe’s Parliamentary Assembly, Tiny Kox, and the secretary-general of the Council of Europe, Marija Pejcinovic Buric, said in a joint statement.

"The Committee of Ministers will hold an extraordinary meeting tomorrow morning also in the light of today’s notification by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation of the Russian leadership’s decision to withdraw from the Council of Europe," they said.

Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal of Ukraine demanded Monday that Russia be expelled from the organisation, saying it had no right to continue being a member after sending troops into the pro-Western nation.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine | Refugees of war: What do the numbers say

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-refugees-of-war-what-do-the-numbers-say-462711/embed" width="560"></iframe>

A statement was posted by the Russian foreign ministry on its Telegram account regarding "launching the procedure to exit the Council of Europe," adding that it had "no regrets" about leaving.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs officials said the exit would not affect the rights and freedoms of Russian citizens and that existing European Court resolutions will continue to be implemented if they do not contradict Russian law.

They alleged that EU and NATO member states had turned the Council of Europe into an "instrument for anti-Russian policies".

(With inputs from agencies)

The Russian government announced Tuesday it would leave the Council of Europe amid mounting calls for Moscow to be expelled over its invasion of Ukraine. Having essentially jumped before being expelled from the Strasbourg-based body, the Russian foreign ministry informed Secretary-General Marija Pejcinovic Buric of its departure.

The Russian government announced Tuesday it would leave the Council of Europe amid mounting calls for Moscow to be expelled over its invasion of Ukraine. Having essentially jumped before being expelled from the Strasbourg-based body, the Russian foreign ministry informed Secretary-General Marija Pejcinovic Buric of its departure. As a result of the decision, Russia ends its quarter-century membership in the Council of Europe (COE) and opens the door to the reimposition of the death penalty if the authorities so choose. Also read | 'Courage of true friends of Ukraine': European leaders' defiant visit to Kyiv amid growing tension with Russia By leaving the Council of Europe, Russia will no longer be a signatory to the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and its citizens will lose access to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). Responsibility for destruction of the common humanitarian space on the continent & the consequences for Council of Europe – which, without Russia, will lose its pan-European character – will be borne solely by those who are forcing us to take this step. 🔗https://t.co/79kDQi3E0N pic.twitter.com/j0maChWWUT — MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) March 15, 2022 × Russia's exit will represent a major change to the ECHR, which serves as the court of last resort when all domestic options have been exhausted. In the history of the Council of Europe, this is only the second time a member state has announced it is leaving the organisation, the first being Greece which temporarily left in the late 1960s. A day after tens of thousands of troops entered Ukraine on February 24, Russia was stripped of all representation rights. Also read | Imitation, the sincerest form of flattery: French President discards suits, dons sweatshirt. Copying Zelensky? "As leaders of the Council of Europe we expressed on several occasions our firm condemnation of the Russian Federation’s aggression against Ukraine," the Italian Foreign Minister, Luigi Di Maio, the president of the Council of Europe’s Parliamentary Assembly, Tiny Kox, and the secretary-general of the Council of Europe, Marija Pejcinovic Buric, said in a joint statement. "The Committee of Ministers will hold an extraordinary meeting tomorrow morning also in the light of today’s notification by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation of the Russian leadership’s decision to withdraw from the Council of Europe," they said. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal of Ukraine demanded Monday that Russia be expelled from the organisation, saying it had no right to continue being a member after sending troops into the pro-Western nation. Watch | Ukraine | Refugees of war: What do the numbers say A statement was posted by the Russian foreign ministry on its Telegram account regarding "launching the procedure to exit the Council of Europe," adding that it had "no regrets" about leaving. Ministry of Foreign Affairs officials said the exit would not affect the rights and freedoms of Russian citizens and that existing European Court resolutions will continue to be implemented if they do not contradict Russian law. They alleged that EU and NATO member states had turned the Council of Europe into an "instrument for anti-Russian policies". (With inputs from agencies)

Jumping the gun: As calls for its expulsion grow, Russia announces 'Ruxit' from Council of Europe

It was nothing short of a charade.

The parade of questions by western media journalists at the recent White House briefing exposed their agenda: thirsting for Ukraine to fight a war with invading troops of Russia, with zero boots on ground from the US or European countries.

It was as if the journalists, men and women, were schooled by some larger, unknown handler to go and ask the same question, over and over again with different phrasing, to White House press secretary Jen Psaki.

Look at this video for evidence:

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Reporters asked Press Secretary Jen Psaki why the administration isn't doing more to arm Ukraine. The Intercept's <a href="https://twitter.com/ryangrim?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RyanGrim</a> asked what the U.S. is doing to push for peaceful negotiations. <a href="https://t.co/8G9DMpNvqb">https://t.co/8G9DMpNvqb</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZHqGryRYHf">pic.twitter.com/ZHqGryRYHf</a>
— The Intercept (@theintercept) <a href="https://twitter.com/theintercept/status/1503923457461035011?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Ever since the Russian invasion, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has been receiving an outpouring of support from across the world, especially the West.

On February 24, Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in order to overthrow the Zelensky regime, which the Kremlin believes harbours “Nazi ideology”.

The war, one of the biggest in Europe since 1945, has claimed thousands of lives and triggered a mass exodus of Ukrainians to neighbouring countries.

As expected, the war drew wide condemnation from all around the world. While US, UK and EU imposed tough economic sanctions on Russia, there are other countries like India, which reminded that the path of dialogue and diplomacy is the only way forward to resolve the issue.

As one of the biggest humanitarian crises unfolds, the press briefing of Jen Psaki, on Tuesday witnessed one of the unruly sides of the western media, a day ahead of Zelensky’s address to the US Congress.

The reporters repeatedly asked why the Biden administration isn’t doing more to provide military support to Ukraine.

One reporter asked, “Zelensky and other Ukrainian officials have made clear that what they believe they need the most—more warplanes and fighter jets. So, why is the US assessing something different?”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/struggling-russia-deploying-more-reinforcements-from-across-country-into-ukraine-uk-intel-462861">‘Struggling’ Russia deploying more reinforcements into Ukraine: UK intel</a>

Another wanted to know whether the Biden administration will supply more weapons to Ukraine.

“President Zelensky will be speaking to Congress tomorrow. He has been pushing for fighter jets and a no-fly zone. We expect to hear the same requests tomorrow as well. Has the administration’s thinking shifted on that at all?”

A video of the press briefing was shared on Twitter by US-based The Intercept news organisation. Many users slammed the reporters for fanning the flames of war.

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Because Putin's said he'll attack those ships carrying arms maybe? Wonder why some of these questioners are masked. <a href="https://t.co/o7zERDM8Dd">https://t.co/o7zERDM8Dd</a>
— Ramola D: Writer &amp; Journalist (@SatyaCovertCAS) <a href="https://twitter.com/SatyaCovertCAS/status/1503927885194792973?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"The link between MSM media and the U.S. war machine couldn't be clearer. While most journalists insist on pressing for an escalation,@ryangrim&nbsp;asked Jen Psaki about Zelensky's other request: can the U.S. be more involved in negotiations toward a peaceful resolution to the war?" a user wrote, referring to a journalist from The Intercept, whose question was more about peace.

Another user commented, "Most media is pushing for more military escalation. Glad someone asks about negotiations"

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jumping-the-gun-as-calls-for-its-expulsion-grow-russia-announces-ruxit-from-council-of-europe-462722">Amid calls for its expulsion, Russia announces 'Ruxit'&nbsp;from Council of Europe</a>

It is evident from the sort of questions asked that the western media was repeatedly peddling motivated and agenda-driven questions surrounding the conflict instead of raising genuine questions on what is being done to de-escalate the tensions.

It was nothing short of a charade. The parade of questions by western media journalists at the recent White House briefing exposed their agenda: thirsting for Ukraine to fight a war with invading troops of Russia, with zero boots on ground from the US or European countries.

It was nothing short of a charade. The parade of questions by western media journalists at the recent White House briefing exposed their agenda: thirsting for Ukraine to fight a war with invading troops of Russia, with zero boots on ground from the US or European countries. It was as if the journalists, men and women, were schooled by some larger, unknown handler to go and ask the same question, over and over again with different phrasing, to White House press secretary Jen Psaki. Look at this video for evidence: Reporters asked Press Secretary Jen Psaki why the administration isn't doing more to arm Ukraine. The Intercept's @RyanGrim asked what the U.S. is doing to push for peaceful negotiations. https://t.co/8G9DMpNvqb pic.twitter.com/ZHqGryRYHf — The Intercept (@theintercept) March 16, 2022 × Ever since the Russian invasion, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has been receiving an outpouring of support from across the world, especially the West. On February 24, Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in order to overthrow the Zelensky regime, which the Kremlin believes harbours “Nazi ideology”. The war, one of the biggest in Europe since 1945, has claimed thousands of lives and triggered a mass exodus of Ukrainians to neighbouring countries. As expected, the war drew wide condemnation from all around the world. While US, UK and EU imposed tough economic sanctions on Russia, there are other countries like India, which reminded that the path of dialogue and diplomacy is the only way forward to resolve the issue. As one of the biggest humanitarian crises unfolds, the press briefing of Jen Psaki, on Tuesday witnessed one of the unruly sides of the western media, a day ahead of Zelensky’s address to the US Congress. The reporters repeatedly asked why the Biden administration isn’t doing more to provide military support to Ukraine. One reporter asked, “Zelensky and other Ukrainian officials have made clear that what they believe they need the most—more warplanes and fighter jets. So, why is the US assessing something different?” Also read | ‘Struggling’ Russia deploying more reinforcements into Ukraine: UK intel Another wanted to know whether the Biden administration will supply more weapons to Ukraine. “President Zelensky will be speaking to Congress tomorrow. He has been pushing for fighter jets and a no-fly zone. We expect to hear the same requests tomorrow as well. Has the administration’s thinking shifted on that at all?” A video of the press briefing was shared on Twitter by US-based The Intercept news organisation. Many users slammed the reporters for fanning the flames of war. Because Putin's said he'll attack those ships carrying arms maybe? Wonder why some of these questioners are masked. https://t.co/o7zERDM8Dd — Ramola D: Writer & Journalist (@SatyaCovertCAS) March 16, 2022 × "The link between MSM media and the U.S. war machine couldn't be clearer. While most journalists insist on pressing for an escalation,@ryangrim asked Jen Psaki about Zelensky's other request: can the U.S. be more involved in negotiations toward a peaceful resolution to the war?" a user wrote, referring to a journalist from The Intercept, whose question was more about peace. Another user commented, "Most media is pushing for more military escalation. Glad someone asks about negotiations" Also read | Amid calls for its expulsion, Russia announces 'Ruxit' from Council of Europe It is evident from the sort of questions asked that the western media was repeatedly peddling motivated and agenda-driven questions surrounding the conflict instead of raising genuine questions on what is being done to de-escalate the tensions.

'Give Ukraine weapons': Is the western press asking same, agenda-driven, motivated questions?

In the first foreign leaders' visit to Ukraine's besieged capital since Russia's invasion, the prime ministers of Poland, the Czech Republic, and Slovenia met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday.

Upon arrival by train, the prime ministers sat around a table with their Ukrainian counterpart Denis Shmyhal and the Ukrainian president, who provided an overview of the situation.

"They are shelling everywhere. Not only Kyiv but also the western areas," Zelensky told them in comments translated into English, a video posted on his Telegram account showed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imitation-the-sincerest-form-of-flattery-french-president-discards-suits-dons-sweatshirt-copying-zelensky-462399" hreflang="en">Imitation, the sincerest form of flattery: French President discards suits, dons sweatshirt. Copying Zelensky?</a>

"We have to halt this tragedy unfolding in the East as quickly as possible," Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said in a post on Facebook announcing their arrival.

Ukraine had the "unequivocal support" of the European Union, he added.

Shmyhal announced their arrival earlier that day on Twitter, saluting "the courage of true friends of Ukraine."

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The Prime Ministers of 🇵🇱 <a href="https://twitter.com/MorawieckiM?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MorawieckiM</a>, 🇸🇮 <a href="https://twitter.com/JJansaSDS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JJansaSDS</a> and 🇨🇿 <a href="https://twitter.com/P_Fiala?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@P_Fiala</a> arrived on the behalf of <a href="https://twitter.com/EUCouncil?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EUCouncil</a> to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kyiv?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kyiv</a> today. The courage of true friends of 🇺🇦! Discussing support of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> and strengthening sanctions against the Russian aggression.
— Denys Shmyhal (@Denys_Shmyhal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Denys_Shmyhal/status/1503793161562427393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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He said their talks would focus on support for Ukraine and "strengthening sanctions against the Russian aggression".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/we-dont-know-how-to-kill-residents-of-odessa-who-cannot-fight-help-with-war-efforts-in-other-ways-462454" hreflang="en">'We don't know how to kill': Residents of Odessa who cannot fight help with war efforts in other ways</a>

Prime Minister Morawiecki, Czech Premier Petr Fiala and Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Jansa are on a visit to the besieged country as "representatives" of the European Union, according to an early statement from the Polish government.

The visit comes as Russian forces attack targets across Ukraine, including Kyiv, which has nearly been encircled by Moscow's forces, and as negotiations to end the nearly three-week war are scheduled to resume.

"In such crucial times for the world, it is our duty to be in the place where history is being made," Morawiecki said in a Facebook post earlier Tuesday.

"Because this is not about us, it is about the future of our children who deserve to live in a world free from tyranny," he said.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine | Refugees of war: What do the numbers say

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-refugees-of-war-what-do-the-numbers-say-462711/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the government statement, the visit was organised "in agreement" with European Council chief Charles Michel and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen.

"The purpose of the visit is to confirm the unequivocal support of the entire European Union for the sovereignty and independence of Ukraine and to present a broad package of support for the Ukrainian state and society," the statement said.

Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the leader of Poland's right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party, accompanied&nbsp;the trio.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the first foreign leaders' visit to Ukraine's besieged capital since Russia's invasion, the prime ministers of Poland, the Czech Republic, and Slovenia met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday.

In the first foreign leaders' visit to Ukraine's besieged capital since Russia's invasion, the prime ministers of Poland, the Czech Republic, and Slovenia met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday. Upon arrival by train, the prime ministers sat around a table with their Ukrainian counterpart Denis Shmyhal and the Ukrainian president, who provided an overview of the situation. "They are shelling everywhere. Not only Kyiv but also the western areas," Zelensky told them in comments translated into English, a video posted on his Telegram account showed. Also read | Imitation, the sincerest form of flattery: French President discards suits, dons sweatshirt. Copying Zelensky? "We have to halt this tragedy unfolding in the East as quickly as possible," Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said in a post on Facebook announcing their arrival. Ukraine had the "unequivocal support" of the European Union, he added. Shmyhal announced their arrival earlier that day on Twitter, saluting "the courage of true friends of Ukraine." The Prime Ministers of 🇵🇱 @MorawieckiM, 🇸🇮 @JJansaSDS and 🇨🇿 @P_Fiala arrived on the behalf of @EUCouncil to #Kyiv today. The courage of true friends of 🇺🇦! Discussing support of #Ukraine and strengthening sanctions against the Russian aggression. — Denys Shmyhal (@Denys_Shmyhal) March 15, 2022 × He said their talks would focus on support for Ukraine and "strengthening sanctions against the Russian aggression". Also read | 'We don't know how to kill': Residents of Odessa who cannot fight help with war efforts in other ways Prime Minister Morawiecki, Czech Premier Petr Fiala and Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Jansa are on a visit to the besieged country as "representatives" of the European Union, according to an early statement from the Polish government. The visit comes as Russian forces attack targets across Ukraine, including Kyiv, which has nearly been encircled by Moscow's forces, and as negotiations to end the nearly three-week war are scheduled to resume. "In such crucial times for the world, it is our duty to be in the place where history is being made," Morawiecki said in a Facebook post earlier Tuesday. "Because this is not about us, it is about the future of our children who deserve to live in a world free from tyranny," he said. Watch | Ukraine | Refugees of war: What do the numbers say According to the government statement, the visit was organised "in agreement" with European Council chief Charles Michel and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen. "The purpose of the visit is to confirm the unequivocal support of the entire European Union for the sovereignty and independence of Ukraine and to present a broad package of support for the Ukrainian state and society," the statement said. Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the leader of Poland's right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party, accompanied the trio. (With inputs from agencies)

'Courage of true friends of Ukraine': European leaders' defiant visit to Kyiv amid growing tension with Russia

It's been 21 days of Russia-Ukraine conflict, and now Russia is seeking UN humanitarian resolution and calling for council votes.

Russia-Ukraine War enters day 21: Russia seeks UN humanitarian resolution

Two Chinese nationals have been arrested for trying to smuggle undocumented children out of Ukraine and into Romania.

Ukraine's State Border Guard Service reported on Monday that border guards held off foreigners from taking babies out of the country at the Porubne Border Crossing Point in Chernivtsi Oblast.&nbsp;

The people who have been identified as Chinese nationals were carrying two infants as they attempted to cross the border and into Romania when they attracted suspicion from the border guards who suspected that something was off.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-refugee-crisis-raises-other-concerns-feeling-women-minors-may-be-targetted-for-trafficking-462747">Ukraine refugee crisis raises other concerns; fleeing women &amp; minors may be targetted for trafficking</a>

Upon inspection, border officials discovered that the foreigners did not have any identification documents for the infants.&nbsp;

In an investigation conducted by the State Border Guard Service, it was found that both Chinese had arrived in the country without children a few weeks before this incident.

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🚫Прикордонники припинили спробу вивезення з України громадянами Китаю немовлят без документів 
▪️У пункті пропуску «Порубне», що у Чернівецькій області, прикордонники припинили спробу іноземців вивезти немовлят. 
▪️Двоє громадян Китаю намагалися пішки перейти з України в Румунію <a href="https://t.co/44Kmp2TsAl">pic.twitter.com/44Kmp2TsAl</a>
— Держприкордонслужба (@DPSU_ua) <a href="https://twitter.com/DPSU_ua/status/1503432061213986821?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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When border guards questioned the two men, they were unable to explain where the children came from.&nbsp;

Now the Ukrainian National Police is looking into the matter.&nbsp;The Ukrainian government's website features pictures of the babies being looked after by its border force.

<img alt="Ukraine border force cares for rescued babies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a575c714-83fa-4726-ab95-67c5ec689d9b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%2820%29_0.jpg" />

<img alt="Ukraine border force cares for rescued babies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9702a948-5ce2-4b6c-b973-0540ab554497" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%2819%29_2.jpg" />

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jumping-the-gun-as-calls-for-its-expulsion-grow-russia-announces-ruxit-from-council-of-europe-462722" hreflang="en">Jumping the gun: As calls for its expulsion grow, Russia announces 'Ruxit'&nbsp;from Council of Europe</a>

However, it remains unclear what will become of the babies as the identities of their parents remain a mystery.

According to a US Department of State report, many of the trafficked children in China are forced into labour.

The report said: “China is a source, transit, and destination country for men, women, and children who are subjected to trafficking in persons, specifically forced labour and forced prostitution.

“Well-organised international criminal syndicates and local gangs play key roles in both internal and cross-border trafficking."

Watch |&nbsp;Surrogacy industry in Ukraine hit by war, citizenship of newborn babies unclear

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/surrogacy-industry-in-ukraine-hit-by-war-citizenship-of-newborn-babies-unclear-462804/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Women and girls from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and several countries in Africa experience forced labour in domestic service, forced concubinism leading to forced childbearing, and sex trafficking via forced and fraudulent marriage to Chinese men."&nbsp;

"Traffickers target adults and children with developmental disabilities and children whose parents have left them with relatives to migrate to the cities—estimated at 6.4 million—and subject them to forced labour and forced begging."

(With inputs from agencies)

Two Chinese nationals have been arrested for trying to smuggle undocumented children out of Ukraine and into Romania. Ukraine's State Border Guard Service reported on Monday that border guards held off foreigners from taking babies out of the country at the Porubne Border Crossing Point in Chernivtsi Oblast.

Two Chinese nationals have been arrested for trying to smuggle undocumented children out of Ukraine and into Romania. Ukraine's State Border Guard Service reported on Monday that border guards held off foreigners from taking babies out of the country at the Porubne Border Crossing Point in Chernivtsi Oblast. The people who have been identified as Chinese nationals were carrying two infants as they attempted to cross the border and into Romania when they attracted suspicion from the border guards who suspected that something was off. Also read | Ukraine refugee crisis raises other concerns; fleeing women & minors may be targetted for trafficking Upon inspection, border officials discovered that the foreigners did not have any identification documents for the infants. In an investigation conducted by the State Border Guard Service, it was found that both Chinese had arrived in the country without children a few weeks before this incident. 🚫Прикордонники припинили спробу вивезення з України громадянами Китаю немовлят без документів ▪️У пункті пропуску «Порубне», що у Чернівецькій області, прикордонники припинили спробу іноземців вивезти немовлят. ▪️Двоє громадян Китаю намагалися пішки перейти з України в Румунію pic.twitter.com/44Kmp2TsAl — Держприкордонслужба (@DPSU_ua) March 14, 2022 × When border guards questioned the two men, they were unable to explain where the children came from. Now the Ukrainian National Police is looking into the matter. The Ukrainian government's website features pictures of the babies being looked after by its border force. Also read | Jumping the gun: As calls for its expulsion grow, Russia announces 'Ruxit' from Council of Europe However, it remains unclear what will become of the babies as the identities of their parents remain a mystery. According to a US Department of State report, many of the trafficked children in China are forced into labour. The report said: “China is a source, transit, and destination country for men, women, and children who are subjected to trafficking in persons, specifically forced labour and forced prostitution. “Well-organised international criminal syndicates and local gangs play key roles in both internal and cross-border trafficking." Watch | Surrogacy industry in Ukraine hit by war, citizenship of newborn babies unclear "Women and girls from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and several countries in Africa experience forced labour in domestic service, forced concubinism leading to forced childbearing, and sex trafficking via forced and fraudulent marriage to Chinese men." "Traffickers target adults and children with developmental disabilities and children whose parents have left them with relatives to migrate to the cities—estimated at 6.4 million—and subject them to forced labour and forced begging." (With inputs from agencies)

Two Chinese nationals arrested for allegedly attempting to smuggle infants from Ukraine

A CCTV video that is going viral on social media shows a missile blast in front of a Ukrainian civilian as he walks through a park.&nbsp;

In Ukraine's capital, now surrounded by two sides and emptied of more than half its three million residents, the latest Russian attacks have killed at least two people.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-warns-russia-might-be-planning-a-chemical-attack-on-ukraine-us-nato-un-echo-the-concern-462340" hreflang="en">UK warns Russia might be planning a chemical attack on Ukraine; US, NATO echo the concern</a>

The video posted online shows the moment a missile exploded in a street in Kyiv, right in front of a civilian walking through a park on Kyrylivska Street. In the video, the civilian can be seen recoiling from the shock of the blast and running away from the explosion.

Here's the shocking&nbsp;video:

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A residential building was severely damaged in a blast that rocked Kyiv today, with a local resident saying at least two had died in the incident. 
 
CCTV footage showed the moment the building exploded, shocking a passer-by.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kyiv?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kyiv</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/russianinvasion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#russianinvasion</a> <a href="https://t.co/oBrQKIj7dK">pic.twitter.com/oBrQKIj7dK</a>
— talkRADIO (@talkRADIO) <a href="https://twitter.com/talkRADIO/status/1503392187781943297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The Russian offensive targeting Kyiv -- launched on February 24 and initially repelled by an enthusiastic army, including many volunteers -- has gained strength once again.

As part of the violent clashes along Kyiv's northwestern edge, long-range missiles caused at least two deaths and 12 injuries on Monday alone.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-kyiv-mayor-records-himself-as-he-shows-the-scale-of-destruction-caused-by-russian-forces-462297" hreflang="en">Watch: Kyiv mayor records himself as he shows the scale of destruction caused by Russian forces</a>

Tensions are also rising in Kyiv's more remote northeast industrial districts where a second front seems to be opening up.

As a result of the growing sense of peril, armed volunteers at Kyiv's sandbagged checkpoints have started asking passing cars to use code words that change constantly.

In order to more easily ascertain who is on the Ukrainian side and who is a Russian saboteur, the ribbon colours are being alternated onto soldiers' elbows and calves.

Watch |&nbsp;Russian troops inch closer to Ukrainian capital, Kyiv braces for more Russian strikes

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-troops-inch-closer-to-ukrainian-capital-kyiv-braces-for-more-russian-strikes-462262/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The almost tangible paranoia on the city's deserted streets, however, is accompanied by strident defiance on the part of many of the distraught victims of Russian President Vladimir Putin's forces.

Moscow-backed separatists claim a fragment of a shot-down Ukrainian Tochka-U missile sliced through Donetsk's centre, killing 23 people. In response, Moscow called it a "war crime," and rebels published images of bloody corpses in the street.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A CCTV video that is going viral on social media shows a missile blast in front of a Ukrainian civilian as he walks through a park. In Ukraine's capital, now surrounded by two sides and emptied of more than half its three million residents, the latest Russian attacks have killed at least two people.

A CCTV video that is going viral on social media shows a missile blast in front of a Ukrainian civilian as he walks through a park. In Ukraine's capital, now surrounded by two sides and emptied of more than half its three million residents, the latest Russian attacks have killed at least two people. Also read | UK warns Russia might be planning a chemical attack on Ukraine; US, NATO echo the concern The video posted online shows the moment a missile exploded in a street in Kyiv, right in front of a civilian walking through a park on Kyrylivska Street. In the video, the civilian can be seen recoiling from the shock of the blast and running away from the explosion. Here's the shocking video: A residential building was severely damaged in a blast that rocked Kyiv today, with a local resident saying at least two had died in the incident. CCTV footage showed the moment the building exploded, shocking a passer-by.#Ukraine | #Kyiv | #russianinvasion pic.twitter.com/oBrQKIj7dK — talkRADIO (@talkRADIO) March 14, 2022 × The Russian offensive targeting Kyiv -- launched on February 24 and initially repelled by an enthusiastic army, including many volunteers -- has gained strength once again. As part of the violent clashes along Kyiv's northwestern edge, long-range missiles caused at least two deaths and 12 injuries on Monday alone. Also read | Watch: Kyiv mayor records himself as he shows the scale of destruction caused by Russian forces Tensions are also rising in Kyiv's more remote northeast industrial districts where a second front seems to be opening up. As a result of the growing sense of peril, armed volunteers at Kyiv's sandbagged checkpoints have started asking passing cars to use code words that change constantly. In order to more easily ascertain who is on the Ukrainian side and who is a Russian saboteur, the ribbon colours are being alternated onto soldiers' elbows and calves. Watch | Russian troops inch closer to Ukrainian capital, Kyiv braces for more Russian strikes The almost tangible paranoia on the city's deserted streets, however, is accompanied by strident defiance on the part of many of the distraught victims of Russian President Vladimir Putin's forces. Moscow-backed separatists claim a fragment of a shot-down Ukrainian Tochka-U missile sliced through Donetsk's centre, killing 23 people. In response, Moscow called it a "war crime," and rebels published images of bloody corpses in the street. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian man shocked as a missile explodes mere steps away from him: Watch

In Pics: Ukrainian colours paint Britain's streets, street art shows support for Kyiv

'We don't know how to kill': Residents of Odessa who cannot fight help with war efforts in other ways

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.

On Monday, the British Defence Ministry tweeted that Russia might use chemical or biological weapons in Ukraine in response to a staged attack on Russian troops.

In what it called an intelligence update, it cited no evidence in support of the assertion. United States officials and NATO chief have earlier also made similar assertions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sees-at-least-one-winner-emerging-from-ukraine-war-china-462310" hreflang="en">China sees at least one winner emerging from Ukraine war: China</a>

The Twitter post said: "Such an operation could take the form of a faked attack, a staged 'discovery' of agents or munitions or fabricated evidence of alleged Ukrainian planning to use such weapons."

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Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 14 March 2022 
 
Find out more about the UK government's response: <a href="https://t.co/wg3FhtrkiY">https://t.co/wg3FhtrkiY</a> 
 
🇺🇦 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StandWithUkraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StandWithUkraine</a> 🇺🇦 <a href="https://t.co/cJikRzwVpQ">pic.twitter.com/cJikRzwVpQ</a>
— Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceHQ/status/1503489559509798912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In its statement, the Defence Ministry said it had not seen any evidence supporting Russia's accusations that Ukraine planned to use chemical and biological weapons.

Earlier, US President Joe Biden had also said that if Russia used chemical weapons against Ukraine, they would pay a "severe price."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-kyiv-mayor-records-himself-as-he-shows-the-scale-of-destruction-caused-by-russian-forces-462297" hreflang="en">Watch: Kyiv mayor records himself as he shows the scale of destruction caused by Russian forces</a>

In a statement published on Friday, the United Nations claimed it had no evidence that Ukraine possessed biological weapons. At the same time, Washington and its allies accused Russia of spreading the unproven claim in advance of launching its own chemical or biological attack.

An interview in the German newspaper Welt am Sonntag quotes NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg as warning that Russia may use chemical weapons following its invasion of Ukraine and that such an act would constitute a war crime.

Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine, Russia optimistic about round 4 of talks

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-russia-optimistic-about-round-4-of-talks-462334/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"In recent days, we have heard absurd claims about chemical and biological weapons laboratories," Stoltenberg said, adding that the Kremlin was inventing false excuses to justify events that could not be justified.

"Now that these false claims have been made, we must remain vigilant because it is possible that Russia itself could plan chemical weapons operations under this fabrication of lies. That would be a war crime."&nbsp;

He added that although the Ukrainian people were courageously resisting the Russian invasion, the coming days are likely to bring even greater hardship.

(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. On Monday, the British Defence Ministry tweeted that Russia might use chemical or biological weapons in Ukraine in response to a staged attack on Russian troops. In what it called an intelligence update, it cited no evidence in support of the assertion. United States officials and NATO chief have earlier also made similar assertions. Also read | China sees at least one winner emerging from Ukraine war: China The Twitter post said: "Such an operation could take the form of a faked attack, a staged 'discovery' of agents or munitions or fabricated evidence of alleged Ukrainian planning to use such weapons." Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 14 March 2022 Find out more about the UK government's response: https://t.co/wg3FhtrkiY 🇺🇦 #StandWithUkraine 🇺🇦 pic.twitter.com/cJikRzwVpQ — Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) March 14, 2022 × In its statement, the Defence Ministry said it had not seen any evidence supporting Russia's accusations that Ukraine planned to use chemical and biological weapons. Earlier, US President Joe Biden had also said that if Russia used chemical weapons against Ukraine, they would pay a "severe price." Also read | Watch: Kyiv mayor records himself as he shows the scale of destruction caused by Russian forces In a statement published on Friday, the United Nations claimed it had no evidence that Ukraine possessed biological weapons. At the same time, Washington and its allies accused Russia of spreading the unproven claim in advance of launching its own chemical or biological attack. An interview in the German newspaper Welt am Sonntag quotes NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg as warning that Russia may use chemical weapons following its invasion of Ukraine and that such an act would constitute a war crime. Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine, Russia optimistic about round 4 of talks "In recent days, we have heard absurd claims about chemical and biological weapons laboratories," Stoltenberg said, adding that the Kremlin was inventing false excuses to justify events that could not be justified. "Now that these false claims have been made, we must remain vigilant because it is possible that Russia itself could plan chemical weapons operations under this fabrication of lies. That would be a war crime." He added that although the Ukrainian people were courageously resisting the Russian invasion, the coming days are likely to bring even greater hardship. (With inputs from agencies)

UK warns Russia might be planning a chemical attack on Ukraine; US, NATO echo the concern

Ukrainians have been forced to flee and seek refuge in other countries, but some have decided to return to the conflict-ridden home.

Why are the refugees going back to Ukraine?

Amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Belgium's Ambassador to India François Delhaye has said that his country has been asking to India to “clearly condemn war by Russia".

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is currently in its third week, creating Europe's worst refugee crisis since the end of World War 2.

Speaking to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal exclusively, envoy Delhaye said, “We think, given the weight of India, also given its moral weight… any clear condemnation by India will make it clear to President of Russia that he has embarked on an operation which will lead him nowhere.”

India has a close relationship with both Europe and Russia. Earlier this week, Indian PM Modi spoke to both Ukraine and Russian presidents, urging them for direct talks, saying that dialogue is the only way forward.

Asked if a situation in Europe can divert attention from Indo Pacific, the envoy said, "As long as this war will last, and no one knows how long it will last, it will be impossible for Europe to focus what is happening in Asia."

WION: How do you see the situation right now in the aftermath of the Russian invasion of Ukraine?

François Delhaye: What we see is huge human suffering, we have the largest flow of refugees since the Second World War with 2 million refugees. We have seen the destruction of Ukraine, which is huge, and the suffering of people there. This is the first thing we see. The second thing which we see is the direct threat at the border of the EU. We see it as a situation which is unprecedented in nearly 80 years, which is extremely worrying.

&nbsp;

WION: How do you see India's role in terms of evolving situation? We have seen what has happened at the UN, considering that India has a close relationship with Europe and Russia.

François Delhaye: We understand India's position. What we have been asking is for India to clearly condemn what is war, and war by Russia. We think given the weight of India, and the moral weight it carries, as India is a non-permanent member of the security council, any clear condemnation of what is happening now will have an enormous impact. It will probably in some way make clear to the President of Russia that he has embarked on an operation which will lead him to nowhere.

&nbsp;

WION: Do you think Europe will now be less invested in Indo Pacific, given that war is&nbsp;creating a distraction?

François Delhaye: Yes, no doubt about it. As long as this war will last, and no one knows how long it will last, it will be impossible for Europe to focus on what is happening in Asia. It does not mean that situation in Asia is not a matter of great interest. It is. Challenges which we now see in Asia are important for the future but at the moment, all of Europe's resources are completed focused on what is happening at our doorstep.

&nbsp;

WION: Do you see a de-escalation happening soon in Europe?

François Delhaye: It is really hard to tell. I think the situation did not develop as President Putin expected it, probably. What will be his choice, will it be more escalation or will it be de-escalation. It is something that cannot be foreseen, and we should be ready for all options.

Amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Belgium's Ambassador to India François Delhaye has said that his country has been asking to India to “clearly condemn war by Russia".

Amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Belgium's Ambassador to India François Delhaye has said that his country has been asking to India to “clearly condemn war by Russia". The Russian invasion of Ukraine is currently in its third week, creating Europe's worst refugee crisis since the end of World War 2. Speaking to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal exclusively, envoy Delhaye said, “We think, given the weight of India, also given its moral weight… any clear condemnation by India will make it clear to President of Russia that he has embarked on an operation which will lead him nowhere.” India has a close relationship with both Europe and Russia. Earlier this week, Indian PM Modi spoke to both Ukraine and Russian presidents, urging them for direct talks, saying that dialogue is the only way forward. Asked if a situation in Europe can divert attention from Indo Pacific, the envoy said, "As long as this war will last, and no one knows how long it will last, it will be impossible for Europe to focus what is happening in Asia." WION: How do you see the situation right now in the aftermath of the Russian invasion of Ukraine? François Delhaye: What we see is huge human suffering, we have the largest flow of refugees since the Second World War with 2 million refugees. We have seen the destruction of Ukraine, which is huge, and the suffering of people there. This is the first thing we see. The second thing which we see is the direct threat at the border of the EU. We see it as a situation which is unprecedented in nearly 80 years, which is extremely worrying. WION: How do you see India's role in terms of evolving situation? We have seen what has happened at the UN, considering that India has a close relationship with Europe and Russia. François Delhaye: We understand India's position. What we have been asking is for India to clearly condemn what is war, and war by Russia. We think given the weight of India, and the moral weight it carries, as India is a non-permanent member of the security council, any clear condemnation of what is happening now will have an enormous impact. It will probably in some way make clear to the President of Russia that he has embarked on an operation which will lead him to nowhere. WION: Do you think Europe will now be less invested in Indo Pacific, given that war is creating a distraction? François Delhaye: Yes, no doubt about it. As long as this war will last, and no one knows how long it will last, it will be impossible for Europe to focus on what is happening in Asia. It does not mean that situation in Asia is not a matter of great interest. It is. Challenges which we now see in Asia are important for the future but at the moment, all of Europe's resources are completed focused on what is happening at our doorstep. WION: Do you see a de-escalation happening soon in Europe? François Delhaye: It is really hard to tell. I think the situation did not develop as President Putin expected it, probably. What will be his choice, will it be more escalation or will it be de-escalation. It is something that cannot be foreseen, and we should be ready for all options.

Want India to clearly condemn ‘war by Russia’, says Belgium's envoy to India

In the emergency UNSC meeting, Russia has accused US of backing bioweapons program, but US denied the claim.

UNSC Meet: Russia accuses US of backing bioweapons program

In response to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, Facebook has temporarily relaxed its ban on violent speech, allowing statements such as "death to Russian invaders" but not credible threats against civilians.

As a result of Moscow's war on its neighbour, Western governments and businesses have imposed unprecedented sanctions, but there has also been a surge in online anger over social media's role in the conflict.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-ukraine-needs-surface-to-air-missiles-not-fighter-jets-to-fight-formidable-russian-air-force-461103">US says Ukraine needs surface-to-air missiles, not fighter jets, to fight 'formidable' Russian air force</a>

Despite the immediate controversy, Facebook and Instagram's parent company, Meta, defended its policy decision.

"As a result of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, we have temporarily made allowances for forms of political expression that would normally violate our rules like violent speech such as 'death to the Russian invaders,'" Meta said in a statement.

"We still won't allow credible calls for violence against Russian civilians," it added.

As one of the world's leading social media companies, Meta has previously struggled to decide what to allow people to post in times of upheaval.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-russias-barbaric-attack-on-ukraine-childrens-hospital-460804">In Pics- Russia's 'barbaric' attack on Ukraine children's hospital</a>

During protests that rocked Iran during July 2021, the company had temporarily allowed posts calling for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death.

Platforms like Twitter and Facebook have had to navigate a myriad of thorny issues related to the war in Ukraine, like when US Senator Lindsey Graham called for the murder of Russian President Vladimir Putin during a televised interview and on Twitter.

"The only way this ends is for somebody in Russia to take this guy out," Graham wrote in a tweet on March 3, which Twitter has not removed.

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Is there a Brutus in Russia? Is there a more successful Colonel Stauffenberg in the Russian military? 
 
The only way this ends is for somebody in Russia to take this guy out. 
 
You would be doing your country - and the world - a great service.
— Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) <a href="https://twitter.com/LindseyGrahamSC/status/1499574209567199235?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Views on Meta's decision were sharply divided.

Watch&nbsp;|&nbsp;Gravitas: Russia becomes the world's most sanctioned country

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Emerson Brooking, a disinformation expert at the Atlantic Council's Digital Forensic Research Lab, said that "the policy regards calls for violence against Russian soldiers".&nbsp;

"A call for violence here, by the way is also a call for resistance because Ukrainians resist a violent invasion," he added.&nbsp;

However, some expressed deep concerns, such as Lehigh University professor Jeremy Littau, who tweeted "'We don't allow hate speech except against certain people from a certain country' is one hell of a can of worms."

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“We don’t allow hate speech except against certain people from a certain country” is one hell of a can of worms.
— Jeremy Littau (@JeremyLittau) <a href="https://twitter.com/JeremyLittau/status/1502066222304841729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

In response to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, Facebook has temporarily relaxed its ban on violent speech, allowing statements such as "death to Russian invaders" but not credible threats against civilians.

In response to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, Facebook has temporarily relaxed its ban on violent speech, allowing statements such as "death to Russian invaders" but not credible threats against civilians. As a result of Moscow's war on its neighbour, Western governments and businesses have imposed unprecedented sanctions, but there has also been a surge in online anger over social media's role in the conflict. Also read | US says Ukraine needs surface-to-air missiles, not fighter jets, to fight 'formidable' Russian air force Despite the immediate controversy, Facebook and Instagram's parent company, Meta, defended its policy decision. "As a result of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, we have temporarily made allowances for forms of political expression that would normally violate our rules like violent speech such as 'death to the Russian invaders,'" Meta said in a statement. "We still won't allow credible calls for violence against Russian civilians," it added. As one of the world's leading social media companies, Meta has previously struggled to decide what to allow people to post in times of upheaval. Also read | In Pics- Russia's 'barbaric' attack on Ukraine children's hospital During protests that rocked Iran during July 2021, the company had temporarily allowed posts calling for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death. Platforms like Twitter and Facebook have had to navigate a myriad of thorny issues related to the war in Ukraine, like when US Senator Lindsey Graham called for the murder of Russian President Vladimir Putin during a televised interview and on Twitter. "The only way this ends is for somebody in Russia to take this guy out," Graham wrote in a tweet on March 3, which Twitter has not removed. Is there a Brutus in Russia? Is there a more successful Colonel Stauffenberg in the Russian military? The only way this ends is for somebody in Russia to take this guy out. You would be doing your country - and the world - a great service. — Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) March 4, 2022 × Views on Meta's decision were sharply divided. Watch | Gravitas: Russia becomes the world's most sanctioned country Emerson Brooking, a disinformation expert at the Atlantic Council's Digital Forensic Research Lab, said that "the policy regards calls for violence against Russian soldiers". "A call for violence here, by the way is also a call for resistance because Ukrainians resist a violent invasion," he added. However, some expressed deep concerns, such as Lehigh University professor Jeremy Littau, who tweeted "'We don't allow hate speech except against certain people from a certain country' is one hell of a can of worms." “We don’t allow hate speech except against certain people from a certain country” is one hell of a can of worms. — Jeremy Littau (@JeremyLittau) March 10, 2022 × (With inputs from agencies)

Opening Pandora's box? Facebook allows calls for violence and death against 'Russian invaders'

In a statement on Thursday, the US State Department rejected proposals to send MiG fighter jets to Ukraine via an American base, saying that ground-based weapons would be more effective against Russian invasion.

The Ukrainian president has repeatedly called on NATO and the United States to send aircraft or create a "no-fly zone" over the war-torn Western ally in order to protect his country from Russian airstrikes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-russias-barbaric-attack-on-ukraine-childrens-hospital-460804">In Pics- Russia's 'barbaric' attack on Ukraine children's hospital</a>

Nevertheless, State Department spokesperson Ned Price has told reporters in Washington that Ukraine had found ground-based defence systems are more effective in fending off Russia's "formidable" air force.

"We will continue to provide our Ukrainian partners with the surface-to-air systems that they need to take on the threat that they face from Russian missiles, from Russian rockets, from artillery," he said.

Moreover, Price noted that Ukraine already has "several squadrons" of its own "fully mission-capable" aircraft and that the United States sending more to Ukraine could aggravate the conflict.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/4-falsehoods-russians-are-told-about-the-war-461088" hreflang="en">4 falsehoods Russians are told about the war</a>

"The intelligence community produced an assessment that the provision of planes in this manner... could be viewed by Moscow as escalatory," he told the news conference.

"It is incumbent upon us to do everything we can to bring this conflict to a close to save as many lives as we can, and to do everything we can to see to it that this conflict does not expand."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Will Russia launch a chemical attack on Ukraine?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-russia-launch-a-chemical-attack-on-ukraine-461097/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Polish government had expressed support for sending its Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets to Kyiv via Ramstein, Germany, with the suggestion that the United States provide F-16s to supplement the Polish air force.

However, on Wednesday, Lloyd Austin told Poland's defence minister Mariusz Blaszczak that Washington had no intention of getting involved in the plan.

While the US&nbsp;has strongly supported Ukraine, pushing for tough international sanctions and sending weapons and other aid, it has already denied enforcing a no-fly zone out of fear of being drawn into the conflict directly.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a statement on Thursday, the US State Department rejected proposals to send MiG fighter jets to Ukraine via an American base, saying that ground-based weapons would be more effective against Russian invasion.

In a statement on Thursday, the US State Department rejected proposals to send MiG fighter jets to Ukraine via an American base, saying that ground-based weapons would be more effective against Russian invasion. The Ukrainian president has repeatedly called on NATO and the United States to send aircraft or create a "no-fly zone" over the war-torn Western ally in order to protect his country from Russian airstrikes. Also read | In Pics- Russia's 'barbaric' attack on Ukraine children's hospital Nevertheless, State Department spokesperson Ned Price has told reporters in Washington that Ukraine had found ground-based defence systems are more effective in fending off Russia's "formidable" air force. "We will continue to provide our Ukrainian partners with the surface-to-air systems that they need to take on the threat that they face from Russian missiles, from Russian rockets, from artillery," he said. Moreover, Price noted that Ukraine already has "several squadrons" of its own "fully mission-capable" aircraft and that the United States sending more to Ukraine could aggravate the conflict. Also read | 4 falsehoods Russians are told about the war "The intelligence community produced an assessment that the provision of planes in this manner... could be viewed by Moscow as escalatory," he told the news conference. "It is incumbent upon us to do everything we can to bring this conflict to a close to save as many lives as we can, and to do everything we can to see to it that this conflict does not expand." Watch | Gravitas: Will Russia launch a chemical attack on Ukraine? The Polish government had expressed support for sending its Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets to Kyiv via Ramstein, Germany, with the suggestion that the United States provide F-16s to supplement the Polish air force. However, on Wednesday, Lloyd Austin told Poland's defence minister Mariusz Blaszczak that Washington had no intention of getting involved in the plan. While the US has strongly supported Ukraine, pushing for tough international sanctions and sending weapons and other aid, it has already denied enforcing a no-fly zone out of fear of being drawn into the conflict directly. (With inputs from agencies)

US says Ukraine needs surface-to-air missiles, not fighter jets, to fight 'formidable' Russian air force

World Athletics will implement further sanctions against the member federation of Belarus following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the ruling body's President Sebastian Coe said on Thursday.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has led to sanctions across global sport, and Belarus, a key staging area for the full-scale invasion, has also been punished.

World Athletics initially responded by banning the two countries'&nbsp;athletes, support staff and officials from all events for the foreseeable future, and following a Council meeting it decided to impose harsher sanctions on Belarus.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-gujarat-titans-to-host-its-inaugural-event-at-the-narendra-modi-stadium-in-ahmedabad-461243">IPL 2022: Gujarat Titans to host its inaugural event at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad</a>

"These sanctions include no hosting of any international or European athletics events," Coe told a news conference. "No representation at congress or in decisions which require congressional votes.

"No accreditation to attend any world athletics events and no involvement of federation personnel in any official World athletics development, or professional programmes."

The Russian Athletics Federation has been suspended from World Athletics since 2015 due to doping violations, and its competitors have not been allowed to compete under the country's flag at international events.

"None of us came in the sport to prevent athletes from competing, but this is of such a different scale," Coe said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharmas-team-india-look-to-seal-series-in-pink-ball-test-against-injury-hit-sri-lanka-461235">Rohit Sharma's Team India look to seal series in pink-ball Test against injury-hit Sri Lanka</a>

"The council was unanimous about the view that it would be inconceivable to have athletes from Ukraine being excluded for ... being unable to compete or train, in an environment that is beyond compare, and have athletes from the two aggressor nations being given the full panoply."

"In the past I've railed against sport being used singularly as a tool. But here, the answer is very clear. Everybody is now doing what they can to stand shoulder to shoulder and sport needs to do that as well."

World Athletics will implement further sanctions against the member federation of Belarus following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the ruling body's President Sebastian Coe said on Thursday.

World Athletics will implement further sanctions against the member federation of Belarus following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the ruling body's President Sebastian Coe said on Thursday. Russia's invasion of Ukraine has led to sanctions across global sport, and Belarus, a key staging area for the full-scale invasion, has also been punished. World Athletics initially responded by banning the two countries' athletes, support staff and officials from all events for the foreseeable future, and following a Council meeting it decided to impose harsher sanctions on Belarus. ALSO READ: IPL 2022: Gujarat Titans to host its inaugural event at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad "These sanctions include no hosting of any international or European athletics events," Coe told a news conference. "No representation at congress or in decisions which require congressional votes. "No accreditation to attend any world athletics events and no involvement of federation personnel in any official World athletics development, or professional programmes." The Russian Athletics Federation has been suspended from World Athletics since 2015 due to doping violations, and its competitors have not been allowed to compete under the country's flag at international events. "None of us came in the sport to prevent athletes from competing, but this is of such a different scale," Coe said. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma's Team India look to seal series in pink-ball Test against injury-hit Sri Lanka "The council was unanimous about the view that it would be inconceivable to have athletes from Ukraine being excluded for ... being unable to compete or train, in an environment that is beyond compare, and have athletes from the two aggressor nations being given the full panoply." "In the past I've railed against sport being used singularly as a tool. But here, the answer is very clear. Everybody is now doing what they can to stand shoulder to shoulder and sport needs to do that as well."

World Athletics to implement further sanctions against Belarus amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine

Ukrainians try to protect their 'past' from the 'present'; rush to save cultural heritage from Russian attacks

Seven refugee bears from Kyiv were getting used to their new home in the western city of Lviv on March 8, after enduring a 24 hour non-stop journey to safety.

Bears rescued from Russian Invasion

In Pics- Russia's 'barbaric' attack on Ukraine children's hospital

Volodymyr Zelensky, president of Ukraine, said Wednesday that at least 35,000 civilians had been evacuated from besieged cities.

According to a video address, the Ukrainian leader made late Wednesday, three humanitarian corridors had enabled residents of Sumy, Enerhodar, and the area around Kyiv to flee.

He said he hoped that the evacuations would continue on Thursday, noting that three more routes were set to open out of Mariupol, Volnovakha in the southeast, and Izium in eastern Ukraine.

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As a result of Moscow and Kyiv's agreement on Wednesday, more corridors were opened, offering a sliver of hope to civilians trapped in bombarded cities.

More than 5,000 people were evacuated from Sumy, a&nbsp;day earlier, a city of 250,000 near the Russian border that has been the scene of heavy fighting.&nbsp;

As per an Interfax Ukraine news agency report,&nbsp;around 48,000 Ukrainians have been evacuated through humanitarian corridors. The report&nbsp;cites a senior aide to President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Kyrylo Tymoshenko, deputy head of the president`s office, said 43,000 people had left the city of Sumy, 3,500 from the Kyiv region and 1,000 from Energodar.

However, the evacuation of Mariupol, which has been under Russian siege for days, has failed on several occasions, with both Kyiv and Moscow blaming each other.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Russia becomes the world's most sanctioned country

Phone signals are down, effectively cutting off the industrial city from the world. Hundreds of thousands of residents of Mariupol under bombardment have been sheltering without water or power for more than a week.

Russia struck a children's hospital in the city on Wednesday, provoking renewed global outrage two weeks after Moscow invaded its former Soviet neighbour.

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In the siege, which has lasted more than a week, more than 1,200 civilians have been killed, according to Mariupol's mayor.

According to the UN refugee agency UNHCR, the number of refugees resulting from this conflict lies somewhere between 2.1 million and 2.2 million.&nbsp;

Volodymyr Zelensky, president of Ukraine, said Wednesday that at least 35,000 civilians had been evacuated from besieged cities. According to a video address, the Ukrainian leader made late Wednesday, three humanitarian corridors had enabled residents of Sumy, Enerhodar, and the area around Kyiv to flee.

Volodymyr Zelensky, president of Ukraine, said Wednesday that at least 35,000 civilians had been evacuated from besieged cities. According to a video address, the Ukrainian leader made late Wednesday, three humanitarian corridors had enabled residents of Sumy, Enerhodar, and the area around Kyiv to flee. He said he hoped that the evacuations would continue on Thursday, noting that three more routes were set to open out of Mariupol, Volnovakha in the southeast, and Izium in eastern Ukraine. Also read | Caribbean countries junk program allowing Russians to buy citizenship As a result of Moscow and Kyiv's agreement on Wednesday, more corridors were opened, offering a sliver of hope to civilians trapped in bombarded cities. More than 5,000 people were evacuated from Sumy, a day earlier, a city of 250,000 near the Russian border that has been the scene of heavy fighting. As per an Interfax Ukraine news agency report, around 48,000 Ukrainians have been evacuated through humanitarian corridors. The report cites a senior aide to President Volodymyr Zelensky. Kyrylo Tymoshenko, deputy head of the president`s office, said 43,000 people had left the city of Sumy, 3,500 from the Kyiv region and 1,000 from Energodar. However, the evacuation of Mariupol, which has been under Russian siege for days, has failed on several occasions, with both Kyiv and Moscow blaming each other. Watch | Gravitas: Russia becomes the world's most sanctioned country Phone signals are down, effectively cutting off the industrial city from the world. Hundreds of thousands of residents of Mariupol under bombardment have been sheltering without water or power for more than a week. Russia struck a children's hospital in the city on Wednesday, provoking renewed global outrage two weeks after Moscow invaded its former Soviet neighbour. Also read | Russia bombed children's hospital in Mariupol, alleges Ukraine In the siege, which has lasted more than a week, more than 1,200 civilians have been killed, according to Mariupol's mayor. According to the UN refugee agency UNHCR, the number of refugees resulting from this conflict lies somewhere between 2.1 million and 2.2 million.

From Ukraine's besieged cities, 35,000 escaped via humanitarian corridors: Zelensky

Britain's government on Thursday imposed sanctions on Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, handing a huge blow to his plans of selling Chelsea football club. In the wake of the Russia-Ukraine war, Abramovich had put Chelsea up for sale after the British government started tightening the noose on Russian billionaires operating in the country.

On Thursday, the British government announced sanctions on seven Russians, including Abramovich. The assets of the seven Russian billionaires will be frozen by the government. However, the British government confirmed that it will allow Chelsea football club to continue playing their matches across competitions despite the sanctions on its owner.

The sanctions mean Abramovich's ability to see Chelsea has also been frozen by the government. The Russian cannot sell the club for now as the asset freeze and sanctions bar the process of a sale under the terms of the license that was granted to the club.

However, the British government has issued a special license to Chelsea which will allow the club to continue playing their matches without any disruption. The license also ensures that the club will pay their staff and players in time, and the ticket holders will be allowed to attend the club's matches.

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However, barring the season ticket holders, no other fans will be able to attend Chelsea matches.&nbsp;"I know this brings some uncertainty, but the government will work with the league and clubs to keep football being played while ensuring sanctions hit those intended," said&nbsp;Nadine Dorries, Britain's minister for sport.

"Football clubs are cultural assets and the bedrock of our communities. We`re committed to protecting them," she added.

Reigning Club World Cup and European champions Chelsea are currently placed third on the Premier League points table with 53 points from 26 matches so far this season and are fighting to finish inside top four.

Britain's government on Thursday imposed sanctions on Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, handing a huge blow to his plans of selling Chelsea football club. In the wake of the Russia-Ukraine war, Abramovich had put Chelsea up for sale after the British government started tightening the noose on Russian billionaires operating in the country.

Britain's government on Thursday imposed sanctions on Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, handing a huge blow to his plans of selling Chelsea football club. In the wake of the Russia-Ukraine war, Abramovich had put Chelsea up for sale after the British government started tightening the noose on Russian billionaires operating in the country. On Thursday, the British government announced sanctions on seven Russians, including Abramovich. The assets of the seven Russian billionaires will be frozen by the government. However, the British government confirmed that it will allow Chelsea football club to continue playing their matches across competitions despite the sanctions on its owner. The sanctions mean Abramovich's ability to see Chelsea has also been frozen by the government. The Russian cannot sell the club for now as the asset freeze and sanctions bar the process of a sale under the terms of the license that was granted to the club. However, the British government has issued a special license to Chelsea which will allow the club to continue playing their matches without any disruption. The license also ensures that the club will pay their staff and players in time, and the ticket holders will be allowed to attend the club's matches. Also Read: Deja vu for Lionel Messi-starrer PSG as they crumble again on big occasion with Real Madrid loss However, barring the season ticket holders, no other fans will be able to attend Chelsea matches. "I know this brings some uncertainty, but the government will work with the league and clubs to keep football being played while ensuring sanctions hit those intended," said Nadine Dorries, Britain's minister for sport. "Football clubs are cultural assets and the bedrock of our communities. We`re committed to protecting them," she added. Reigning Club World Cup and European champions Chelsea are currently placed third on the Premier League points table with 53 points from 26 matches so far this season and are fighting to finish inside top four.

Chelsea football club's sale halted as UK government imposes sanctions on Roman Abramovich

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