It started with one bid, then two, then twenty: a small Stockholm company has recently been swamped with inquiries for the rights to air the comedy series featuring Ukraine's former actor-turned-war hero Volodymyr Zelensky.

"It's been very, very busy. All around the world, people have asked for the rights because they want to broadcast it," says Eccho Rights co-founder Nicola Soderlund.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-ukraines-besieged-cities-35000-escaped-via-humanitarian-corridors-zelensky-460729" hreflang="en">From Ukraine's besieged cities, 35,000 escaped via humanitarian corridors: Zelensky</a>

Since the beginning of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, broadcasters including Channel 4 in the UK, ANT1 in Greece, and PRO TV in Romania, have rushed to acquire the rights to "Servant of the People", which first aired in Ukraine in 2015.

"I think last week we made maybe 15 deals and we are in negotiations with another 20 countries," says Soderlund, a poster advertising the series hanging above his desk.&nbsp;

"The latest we heard of is Latin America, we're discussing with the US, Netflix, we're discussing with many."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-from-ex-comedian-to-war-president-456070">Volodymyr Zelensky: From ex-comedian to ‘war president’</a>

There are currently three or four broadcasters in Italy vying for the rights, while in Greece, the show airs nightly during primetime.

"In a way, it's an act of solidarity with the Ukrainians, and at the same time, of curiosity -- you want to see who he is," Soderlund says of Zelensky.

President Zelensky has risen to prominence on the international stage since the start of the invasion, impressing the world with his fearless determination against the Russian invasion.

In retrospect, it was unimaginable that this "very funny comedian, very popular and loved by audiences" would eventually become Vladimir Putin's main target and "this world leader who embodies and speaks for the whole nation".

"We needed a hero like him, after Trump and all that," Eccho Rights managing director Fredrik af Malmborg interjects.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Zelensky's three big miscalculations

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-zelenskys-three-big-miscalculations-460693/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

With "Servant of the People", life imitated art.&nbsp;The series, which lasted three seasons, featured Zelensky as a high school teacher who was elected president after a viral video of him ranting about corruption in Ukraine went viral.

Zelensky became president in real life after the success of the show.

While Eccho has not had direct contact with Zelensky, it has been in touch with some of his representatives.

The details of the rights contracts are confidential, but the rights will cost "around a million euros". &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

It started with one bid, then two, then twenty: a small Stockholm company has recently been swamped with inquiries for the rights to air the comedy series featuring Ukraine's former actor-turned-war hero Volodymyr Zelensky.

It started with one bid, then two, then twenty: a small Stockholm company has recently been swamped with inquiries for the rights to air the comedy series featuring Ukraine's former actor-turned-war hero Volodymyr Zelensky. "It's been very, very busy. All around the world, people have asked for the rights because they want to broadcast it," says Eccho Rights co-founder Nicola Soderlund. Also read | From Ukraine's besieged cities, 35,000 escaped via humanitarian corridors: Zelensky Since the beginning of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, broadcasters including Channel 4 in the UK, ANT1 in Greece, and PRO TV in Romania, have rushed to acquire the rights to "Servant of the People", which first aired in Ukraine in 2015. "I think last week we made maybe 15 deals and we are in negotiations with another 20 countries," says Soderlund, a poster advertising the series hanging above his desk. "The latest we heard of is Latin America, we're discussing with the US, Netflix, we're discussing with many." Also read | Volodymyr Zelensky: From ex-comedian to ‘war president’ There are currently three or four broadcasters in Italy vying for the rights, while in Greece, the show airs nightly during primetime. "In a way, it's an act of solidarity with the Ukrainians, and at the same time, of curiosity -- you want to see who he is," Soderlund says of Zelensky. President Zelensky has risen to prominence on the international stage since the start of the invasion, impressing the world with his fearless determination against the Russian invasion. In retrospect, it was unimaginable that this "very funny comedian, very popular and loved by audiences" would eventually become Vladimir Putin's main target and "this world leader who embodies and speaks for the whole nation". "We needed a hero like him, after Trump and all that," Eccho Rights managing director Fredrik af Malmborg interjects. Watch | Gravitas: Zelensky's three big miscalculations With "Servant of the People", life imitated art. The series, which lasted three seasons, featured Zelensky as a high school teacher who was elected president after a viral video of him ranting about corruption in Ukraine went viral. Zelensky became president in real life after the success of the show. While Eccho has not had direct contact with Zelensky, it has been in touch with some of his representatives. The details of the rights contracts are confidential, but the rights will cost "around a million euros". (With inputs from agencies)

Life imitates art: Broadcasters clamour to air Ukrainian comedian-turned-war-hero President's TV show

President Joe Biden banned Russian oil and other energy imports to the United States, piling pressure on Vladimir Putin to halt the assault on Ukraine, but an effort to evacuate civilians from the besieged port city of Mariupol failed. 
 
Ukraine's government accused Russia of shelling a humanitarian corridor it had promised in Mariupol. 
 
SANCTIONS 
 
* Biden acknowledged the ban on Russian energy imports, which has bipartisan support, would drive up U.S. energy prices. 
 
* Britain said it aimed to phase out imports of Russian oil by the end of 2022. The EU plans to cut dependency on Russian gas this year by two-thirds. 
 
FIGHTING 
 
* Ukrainian troops repulsed efforts by Russian forces to enter the eastern city of Kharkiv, regional governor Oleh Synehubov said. 
 
* Russian forces have repeatedly tried to seize the southern regional capital of Mykolayiv in attacks that have been repulsed by Ukrainian troops, a Ukrainian presidential adviser said 
 
CORRIDORS 
 
* Russian forces will stop firing from 10 a.m. Moscow time (0700 GMT) on Wednesday to provide humanitarian corridors for people to leave Kyiv and four other cities, Tass news agency cited a senior Russian official as saying. 
 
DEATH TOLL 
 
* The United Nations human rights office said it had verified 1,335 civilian casualties so far in Ukraine, including 474 killed and 861 injured, but the true toll was likely to be higher. 
 
* Ukraine says its forces have killed more than 11,000 Russian troops. Russia has confirmed about 500 losses. Neither side has disclosed Ukrainian casualties. 
 
NATO AIRCRAFT 
 
The United States rejected a surprise offer by NATO ally Poland on Tuesday to transfer its Russian-made MiG-29 fighter jets to a U.S. base in Germany as a way to replenish Ukraine`s air force in its defence against invading Russian forces. 
 
The United States has sought to speed weapons deliveries to Ukraine. But the prospect of flying combat aircraft from NATO territory into the war zone "raises serious concerns for the entire NATO alliance," the Pentagon said. 
 
ECONOMIC IMPACT 
 
* McDonald`s Corp, Starbucks and L`Oreal are temporarily closing all outlets in Russia. Coca-Cola and Pepsi suspended soda sales in the country. 
 
* Unilever became the first major European food company to stop imports and exports out of Russia. 
 
* The London Metal Exchange halted trade in nickel after prices of the metal, a key component in electric vehicle batteries, doubled to more than $100,000 a tonne. 
 
QUOTES 
 
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy told Britain`s House of Commons via videolink: "The question for us now is to be or not to be. I can give you a definitive answer: it`s definitely to be." 
 
"Russia may continue to grind out its advance at a horrible price, but this much is already clear: Ukraine will never be a victory for Putin," Biden told reporters. "Putin may be able to take a city, but he`ll never be able to hold the country."

President Joe Biden banned Russian oil and other energy imports to the United States, piling pressure on Vladimir Putin to halt the assault on Ukraine, but an effort to evacuate civilians from the besieged port city of Mariupol failed.

President Joe Biden banned Russian oil and other energy imports to the United States, piling pressure on Vladimir Putin to halt the assault on Ukraine, but an effort to evacuate civilians from the besieged port city of Mariupol failed. Ukraine's government accused Russia of shelling a humanitarian corridor it had promised in Mariupol. SANCTIONS * Biden acknowledged the ban on Russian energy imports, which has bipartisan support, would drive up U.S. energy prices. * Britain said it aimed to phase out imports of Russian oil by the end of 2022. The EU plans to cut dependency on Russian gas this year by two-thirds. FIGHTING * Ukrainian troops repulsed efforts by Russian forces to enter the eastern city of Kharkiv, regional governor Oleh Synehubov said. * Russian forces have repeatedly tried to seize the southern regional capital of Mykolayiv in attacks that have been repulsed by Ukrainian troops, a Ukrainian presidential adviser said CORRIDORS * Russian forces will stop firing from 10 a.m. Moscow time (0700 GMT) on Wednesday to provide humanitarian corridors for people to leave Kyiv and four other cities, Tass news agency cited a senior Russian official as saying. DEATH TOLL * The United Nations human rights office said it had verified 1,335 civilian casualties so far in Ukraine, including 474 killed and 861 injured, but the true toll was likely to be higher. * Ukraine says its forces have killed more than 11,000 Russian troops. Russia has confirmed about 500 losses. Neither side has disclosed Ukrainian casualties. NATO AIRCRAFT The United States rejected a surprise offer by NATO ally Poland on Tuesday to transfer its Russian-made MiG-29 fighter jets to a U.S. base in Germany as a way to replenish Ukraine`s air force in its defence against invading Russian forces. The United States has sought to speed weapons deliveries to Ukraine. But the prospect of flying combat aircraft from NATO territory into the war zone "raises serious concerns for the entire NATO alliance," the Pentagon said. ECONOMIC IMPACT * McDonald`s Corp, Starbucks and L`Oreal are temporarily closing all outlets in Russia. Coca-Cola and Pepsi suspended soda sales in the country. * Unilever became the first major European food company to stop imports and exports out of Russia. * The London Metal Exchange halted trade in nickel after prices of the metal, a key component in electric vehicle batteries, doubled to more than $100,000 a tonne. QUOTES Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy told Britain`s House of Commons via videolink: "The question for us now is to be or not to be. I can give you a definitive answer: it`s definitely to be." "Russia may continue to grind out its advance at a horrible price, but this much is already clear: Ukraine will never be a victory for Putin," Biden told reporters. "Putin may be able to take a city, but he`ll never be able to hold the country."

Russian invasion of Ukraine: What you need to know right now

Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Ukraine will no longer be seeking NATO membership, a delicate issue cited by Russia as a reason for invading its pro-Western neighbor.

Zelensky also said he is open to "compromise" over the status of two breakaway pro-Russian territories that Putin recognized as independent just before the invasion, on February 24.

"I have cooled down regarding this question a long time ago after we understood that ... NATO is not prepared to accept Ukraine," Zelensky said in an interview aired Monday night on ABC News.

"The alliance is afraid of controversial things, and confrontation with Russia," the president added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-not-give-up-will-fight-till-the-end-says-ukraine-president-zelensky-tells-uk-parliament-460376" hreflang="en">We will not give up, will fight till the end, Ukraine President Zelensky tells UK Parliament</a>

Regarding NATO membership, Zelensky said that he did not want to be president of a "country which is begging something on its knees."&nbsp;

Russia is opposed to neighbouring Ukraine joining NATO, the transatlantic alliance formed at the start of the Cold War to defend Europe from the Soviet Union.&nbsp;

The Kremlin has been infuriated by the alliance's expansion to former Soviet bloc countries in recent years.

NATO enlargement, as well as the military posture of these new Western allies on their doorstep, is viewed by Russia as a threat.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-bans-us-import-of-russian-oil-global-economy-to-face-heat-460356" hreflang="en">Joe Biden bans US import of Russian oil, global economy to face heat?</a>

Putin recognized Donetsk and Lugansk in eastern Ukraine, which have been at war with Kyiv since 2014, as independent "republics" shortly before he shocked the world by launching Ukraine's invasion.&nbsp;

Now, Putin wants Ukraine to recognize them as sovereign and independent, too.

When asked about Russian demands, Zelensky said he was open to dialogue.

"I'm talking about security guarantees," he said.

Watch |&nbsp;Amid Russian offensive, Ukraine backs away from NATO bid?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/amid-russian-offensive-ukraine-backs-away-from-nato-bid-460396/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He said these two regions "have not been recognized by anyone but Russia, these pseudo republics. But we can discuss and find the compromise on how these territories will live on."

"What is important to me is how the people in those territories are going to live who want to be part of Ukraine, who in Ukraine will say that they want to have them in," Zelensky said.

"So the question is more difficult than simply acknowledging them," the president said.

"This is another ultimatum and we are not prepared for ultimatums. What needs to be done is for President Putin to start talking, start the dialogue instead of living in the informational bubble without oxygen."

(With inputs from agencies)

Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Ukraine will no longer be seeking NATO membership, a delicate issue cited by Russia as a reason for invading its pro-Western neighbor.

Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Ukraine will no longer be seeking NATO membership, a delicate issue cited by Russia as a reason for invading its pro-Western neighbor. Zelensky also said he is open to "compromise" over the status of two breakaway pro-Russian territories that Putin recognized as independent just before the invasion, on February 24. "I have cooled down regarding this question a long time ago after we understood that ... NATO is not prepared to accept Ukraine," Zelensky said in an interview aired Monday night on ABC News. "The alliance is afraid of controversial things, and confrontation with Russia," the president added. Also read | We will not give up, will fight till the end, Ukraine President Zelensky tells UK Parliament Regarding NATO membership, Zelensky said that he did not want to be president of a "country which is begging something on its knees." Russia is opposed to neighbouring Ukraine joining NATO, the transatlantic alliance formed at the start of the Cold War to defend Europe from the Soviet Union. The Kremlin has been infuriated by the alliance's expansion to former Soviet bloc countries in recent years. NATO enlargement, as well as the military posture of these new Western allies on their doorstep, is viewed by Russia as a threat. Also read | Joe Biden bans US import of Russian oil, global economy to face heat? Putin recognized Donetsk and Lugansk in eastern Ukraine, which have been at war with Kyiv since 2014, as independent "republics" shortly before he shocked the world by launching Ukraine's invasion. Now, Putin wants Ukraine to recognize them as sovereign and independent, too. When asked about Russian demands, Zelensky said he was open to dialogue. "I'm talking about security guarantees," he said. Watch | Amid Russian offensive, Ukraine backs away from NATO bid? He said these two regions "have not been recognized by anyone but Russia, these pseudo republics. But we can discuss and find the compromise on how these territories will live on." "What is important to me is how the people in those territories are going to live who want to be part of Ukraine, who in Ukraine will say that they want to have them in," Zelensky said. "So the question is more difficult than simply acknowledging them," the president said. "This is another ultimatum and we are not prepared for ultimatums. What needs to be done is for President Putin to start talking, start the dialogue instead of living in the informational bubble without oxygen." (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky gives up on joining NATO, says he does not want to lead a nation 'begging something on its knees'

The US has banned Russian oil exports. Moscow has threatened to cut gas supplies - if the oil ban goes ahead. Will Europe continue to bankroll Russia's Ukraine invasion? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Will Europe still bankroll Russia's Ukraine invasion?

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has a new symbol. The letter 'Z'. It's present on Russian tanks, billboards, cars, even on uniforms of Russian athletes. What does this symbol stand for? Is it a military marking or a warning? Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: The mystery around Russia's 'Z' Symbol

Four world leaders have positioned themselves as mediators in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Who are they? Is there any hope for talks amid raining missiles? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Meet the mediators of the Russia-Ukraine war

In a statement Tuesday, the UN watchdog said that the Chernobyl nuclear power plant is no longer sending data to them. The agency also expressed concern for staff operating under Russian guard at the Ukrainian facility.

Rafael Grossi, the chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), "indicated that remote data transmission from safeguards monitoring systems installed at the Chornobyl NPP had been lost", the agency said in its statement.

"The Agency is looking into the status of safeguards monitoring systems in other locations in Ukraine and will provide further information soon," it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-gives-up-on-joining-nato-says-he-does-not-want-to-lead-a-nation-begging-something-on-its-knees-460394" hreflang="en">Zelensky gives up on joining NATO, says he does not want to lead a nation “begging something on its knees"</a>

By "safeguards," the IAEA refers to the technical measures it uses to regulate nuclear material and activities with the goal of suppressing the spread of nuclear weapons through the early detection of their misuse.

On February 24, Russia invaded Ukraine and seized Chernobyl, the site of a 1986 disaster that killed hundreds of people and spread radioactive contamination west across Europe.

Staff conditions were "worsening" at the site, the IAEA said, citing Ukraine's nuclear regulator.&nbsp;Over 200 technical staff and guards are trapped on the site, working 13 days straight since the Russians took over.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-not-give-up-will-fight-till-the-end-says-ukraine-president-zelensky-tells-uk-parliament-460376" hreflang="en">We will not give up, will fight till the end, Ukraine President Zelensky tells UK Parliament</a>

The defunct plant lies inside an exclusion zone that also contains decommissioned reactors and a radioactive waste facility.&nbsp;

A staff of more than 2,000 is still employed at the plant as it must be constantly managed to prevent another nuclear accident.

Russian authorities were urged to allow workers to rotate because regular shifts and rest were crucial to the site's safety.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Meet the mediators of the Russia-Ukraine war

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-meet-the-mediators-of-the-russia-ukraine-war-460387/embed" width="560"></iframe>

"I'm deeply concerned about the difficult and stressful situation facing staff at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant and the potential risks this entails for nuclear safety," said Grossi.

"I call on the forces in effective control of the site to urgently facilitate the safe rotation of personnel there."

Since the Ukrainian regulator could only reach the plant via email, Grossi reiterated his offer to travel to the plant or elsewhere to secure from all parties "the commitment to safety and security" of Ukraine's power plants.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a statement Tuesday, the UN watchdog said that the Chernobyl nuclear power plant is no longer sending data to them. The agency also expressed concern for staff operating under Russian guard at the Ukrainian facility.

In a statement Tuesday, the UN watchdog said that the Chernobyl nuclear power plant is no longer sending data to them. The agency also expressed concern for staff operating under Russian guard at the Ukrainian facility. Rafael Grossi, the chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), "indicated that remote data transmission from safeguards monitoring systems installed at the Chornobyl NPP had been lost", the agency said in its statement. "The Agency is looking into the status of safeguards monitoring systems in other locations in Ukraine and will provide further information soon," it said. Also read | Zelensky gives up on joining NATO, says he does not want to lead a nation “begging something on its knees" By "safeguards," the IAEA refers to the technical measures it uses to regulate nuclear material and activities with the goal of suppressing the spread of nuclear weapons through the early detection of their misuse. On February 24, Russia invaded Ukraine and seized Chernobyl, the site of a 1986 disaster that killed hundreds of people and spread radioactive contamination west across Europe. Staff conditions were "worsening" at the site, the IAEA said, citing Ukraine's nuclear regulator. Over 200 technical staff and guards are trapped on the site, working 13 days straight since the Russians took over. Also read | We will not give up, will fight till the end, Ukraine President Zelensky tells UK Parliament The defunct plant lies inside an exclusion zone that also contains decommissioned reactors and a radioactive waste facility. A staff of more than 2,000 is still employed at the plant as it must be constantly managed to prevent another nuclear accident. Russian authorities were urged to allow workers to rotate because regular shifts and rest were crucial to the site's safety. Watch | Gravitas: Meet the mediators of the Russia-Ukraine war "I'm deeply concerned about the difficult and stressful situation facing staff at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant and the potential risks this entails for nuclear safety," said Grossi. "I call on the forces in effective control of the site to urgently facilitate the safe rotation of personnel there." Since the Ukrainian regulator could only reach the plant via email, Grossi reiterated his offer to travel to the plant or elsewhere to secure from all parties "the commitment to safety and security" of Ukraine's power plants. (With inputs from agencies)

UN nuclear watchdog no longer receiving data from Chernobyl, expresses worry about the 130 trapped workers

Following last week's decision by the Executive Board (EB) of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) to exclude Russia from the upcoming FIH Hockey Women's Junior World Cup, the national team of Austria will now join this top-flight event scheduled from April 1 to 12 in Potchefstroom, South Africa.

Austria will take the place of Russia in Pool C, therefore joining Argentina, Korea and Uruguay.

It will be Austria's first-ever participation in&nbsp;FIH Hockey Women's Junior World Cup.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-legend-shane-warnes-state-memorial-service-to-be-held-at-melbourne-cricket-ground-on-march-30-460555">Australian legend Shane Warne's state memorial service to be held at Melbourne Cricket Ground on March 30</a>

"Furthermore, FIH continues to be in contact with the Hockey Association of Ukraine and is still hopeful that the Ukrainian team will be able to participate in the event in South Africa," stated an official FIH release.

Last month, FIH had expressed its full solidarity to the members of Ukraine's hockey community at this terrible time.

Following last week's decision by the Executive Board (EB) of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) to exclude Russia from the upcoming FIH Hockey Women's Junior World Cup, the national team of Austria will now join this top-flight event scheduled from April 1 to 12 in Potchefstroom, South Africa.

Following last week's decision by the Executive Board (EB) of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) to exclude Russia from the upcoming FIH Hockey Women's Junior World Cup, the national team of Austria will now join this top-flight event scheduled from April 1 to 12 in Potchefstroom, South Africa. Austria will take the place of Russia in Pool C, therefore joining Argentina, Korea and Uruguay. It will be Austria's first-ever participation in FIH Hockey Women's Junior World Cup. ALSO READ: Australian legend Shane Warne's state memorial service to be held at Melbourne Cricket Ground on March 30 "Furthermore, FIH continues to be in contact with the Hockey Association of Ukraine and is still hopeful that the Ukrainian team will be able to participate in the event in South Africa," stated an official FIH release. Last month, FIH had expressed its full solidarity to the members of Ukraine's hockey community at this terrible time.

FIH Women's Junior World Cup: Austria to join tournament in place of Russia

Ukraine has begun evacuating civilians from the town of Irpin near the capital Kyiv after days of heavy aerial bombardment by Russian forces. WION's Anas Mallick brings you this report from the ground zero.

Ground Report: Irpin faces heat as Russian troops advance towards Kyiv

Ukrainian military has a tough job at hand to close all channels entering Kyiv to keep the Russian troops out but at the same time to keep the humanitarian routes open to help its civilians evacuate. WION's Anas Mallick brings you this report from a bridge Bucha region and Irpin.

Ukraine destroys bridge of Bucha to keep Russians out of Kyiv

Moscow threatens to close a major gas pipeline to Germany after the US pushed its European allies to consider banning Russian oil imports over its invasion of Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine war puts oil market in turmoil

Civilians are coming under attack in Ukraine. Near Kyiv, a shell exploded near a group of civilians who were trying to flee. Molly Gambhir gets you a report.

Gravitas | Watch: Ukrainian civilians hit by a missile near Kyiv

Oil prices have skyrocketed. Global markets have tanked. The chief of the World Bank has called the Ukraine invasion "an economic catastrophe". Molly Gambhir tells you how the war could impact you.

Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: Global investors lose billions

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky lashed out at NATO over its refusal to impose a no-fly zone over Ukraine. What does a no-fly zone mean? Why is NATO refusing to impose one? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: Zelensky lashes out at NATO over no-fly zone

What military gains did Russia make over the weekend? What did Joe Biden and Zelensky discuss in their phone call? Why is Zelensky upset with NATO? Molly Gambhir decodes the developments with WION's correspondents.

Gravitas: Decoding Russia's military gains

An 'Iron Curtain' has descended upon Russia. Banks and multi-national companies are cutting ties with Moscow. Attempts are also being made to disconnect Russia from the global internet. Molly Gambhir gets you a report.

Gravitas: New 'Iron Curtain' descends upon Russia

US media reports say Russia is recruiting Syrian fighters to beat Ukrainians in urban warfare. What is the role of foreign mercenaries in this war? How many of them are deployed in Ukraine? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: Putin using Syrian fighters to beat Ukraine?

At a time when Russia's military operation is causing a fast-growing refugee crisis in Europe, a handful of Ukrainian citizens have found a safe refuge on an Indian cruise ship. WION tells you more in this report.

20 Ukrainians find safe refuge in an Indian cruise ship

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed on Monday evening that all Indian students who were in Sumy had been successfully evacuated, and are now in Poltava.

Ukraine starts evacuation of civilians from Sumy to Poltava

Wang Yi, the Chinese foreign minister, used an annual press conference to laud Russia as his country’s “most important strategic partner”, while condemning the West’s “double standards” on its territorial claims towards Taiwan.

China hails Russia friendship and condemns the west for double standards on Ukraine

Scotland's FIFA World Cup play-off semi-final against Ukraine, scheduled for March 24, has been postponed.

FIFA, world football's governing body, had a call with the chief executives of the Scotland, Ukraine, Wales and Austria Football Associations on Monday where they were verbally told that the game will be moved to June.

Earlier, Ukriane had asked FIFA to postpone their March 24 World Cup play-off match against Scotland.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-to-suspend-contracts-of-foreign-players-currently-tied-to-ukrainian-russian-clubs-460172">FIFA to suspend contracts of foreign players currently tied to Ukrainian, Russian clubs</a>

The play-off semi-final was due to be played at Hampden Park on March 24, with the winner going on to face Austria or Wales in Cardiff for a place in this year's World Cup in Qatar.

But now the clash has been postponed owing to the ongoing military operation of Ukraine by Russia.

Russia was thrown out of the tournament by FIFA as a sanction for their military operation.

They had been due to face Poland in their semi-final.World football's governing body had earlier released a joint statement with UEFA on Monday announcing Russia's national teams and its clubs were banned from all competitions.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-harry-kanes-brace-helps-tottenham-hotspur-crush-everton-5-0-460196">Premier League: Harry Kane's brace helps Tottenham Hotspur crush Everton 5-0</a>

Earlier, the Russian football federation on Thursday said that it will appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against the decisions by FIFA and UEFA to bar Russian national teams from international competitions over the country's military operation of Ukraine.

The Russian football federation said in a statement it would file one lawsuit against the two governing bodies to demand that Russian men's and women's national teams be allowed to compete, including in qualifying for this year`s World Cup in Qatar.

Scotland's FIFA World Cup play-off semi-final against Ukraine, scheduled for March 24, has been postponed. FIFA, world football's governing body, had a call with the chief executives of the Scotland, Ukraine, Wales and Austria Football Associations on Monday where they were verbally told that the game will be moved to June.

Scotland's FIFA World Cup play-off semi-final against Ukraine, scheduled for March 24, has been postponed. FIFA, world football's governing body, had a call with the chief executives of the Scotland, Ukraine, Wales and Austria Football Associations on Monday where they were verbally told that the game will be moved to June. Earlier, Ukriane had asked FIFA to postpone their March 24 World Cup play-off match against Scotland. ALSO READ: FIFA to suspend contracts of foreign players currently tied to Ukrainian, Russian clubs The play-off semi-final was due to be played at Hampden Park on March 24, with the winner going on to face Austria or Wales in Cardiff for a place in this year's World Cup in Qatar. But now the clash has been postponed owing to the ongoing military operation of Ukraine by Russia. Russia was thrown out of the tournament by FIFA as a sanction for their military operation. They had been due to face Poland in their semi-final.World football's governing body had earlier released a joint statement with UEFA on Monday announcing Russia's national teams and its clubs were banned from all competitions. ALSO READ: Premier League: Harry Kane's brace helps Tottenham Hotspur crush Everton 5-0 Earlier, the Russian football federation on Thursday said that it will appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against the decisions by FIFA and UEFA to bar Russian national teams from international competitions over the country's military operation of Ukraine. The Russian football federation said in a statement it would file one lawsuit against the two governing bodies to demand that Russian men's and women's national teams be allowed to compete, including in qualifying for this year`s World Cup in Qatar.

FIFA postpone Scotland's World Cup play-off semi-final against Ukraine amid war crisis

After Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged the foreigners to show support for his country and fight side by side with the Ukrainians against the Russian war, a total of 16,000 foreigners have volunteered to fight untethered against the Russian assault.

Ukraine Under Attack: 16,000 foreigners volunteer to fight for Ukraine against Russia

People in Ukraine are unable to flee with their pets amid the Russian invasion, they're finding it difficult to leave their pets behind. Ukrainians are being forced to leave their pets due to conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

The dilemma of pet owners amid Russia invasion

Russia has opened safe corridors for civilians from 5 Ukrainian cities. However, assault on cities including Kyiv, Kharkiv, Sumy, and Mariupol continues. WION's Anas Mallick brings you more insights.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russia opens humanitarian corridor for 5 Ukrainian cities

A man in Ireland rammed his truck through the gates of the Russian embassy in Dublin as part of his protest against the Russian invasion of Ukraine—earning applause from onlookers.

According to local media reports, the incident took place on Monday around 1.30 pm and no injuries were reported.

The Irish police have arrested local businessman&nbsp;Desmond Wisley and launched an investigation into the incident of “criminal damage”.

"One male was arrested and taken to Rathfarnham Garda Station where he is currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984," a police spokesperson said in a statement. "Investigations are ongoing.”

Videos of the incident appeared on social media showing an ecclesiastical truck with a trailer reversing into the gates, forcing them to open.

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Desmond Wisley has breached the gates of the Russian Embassy in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dublin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dublin</a>. He was overcome after seeing photos of the family killed in Irpin. <a href="https://t.co/8SMbZIYxK0">pic.twitter.com/8SMbZIYxK0</a>
— Laura Moth (@EisabelMoth) <a href="https://twitter.com/EisabelMoth/status/1500856168792657924?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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After ploughing his lorry into the gates, Wisley got out of his vehicle and handed out photos to other protesters showing what Russian troops are doing in Ukraine, according to The Irish Times.

“I've just done this to create a safe corridor for the Russian ambassador to leave Ireland,” Wisely told the crowd of protesters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-zelensky-slams-russias-cynicism-and-propaganda-posts-video-from-his-office-watch-460068">Zelensky slams Russia's 'cynicism and propaganda', posts video from his office</a>

“I want the ambassador and his colleagues to leave this country, leave this free country,” Wisely added. "It's about time we stood up."

As the officer leads him away, uncuffed, Wiley declares: “I’ve done my bit lads. It’s about time Ireland does theirs.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fears-of-energy-war-between-russia-west-grows-whats-at-stake-460104">Fears of energy war between Russia, West grow. What’s at stake?</a>

In a statement to The Irish Times, a Russian embassy spokeswoman accused the Garda police officers of standing idle during the incident.

“The embassy strongly condemns this criminal act of insanity directed against a peaceful diplomatic mission. The embassy views this incident as a clear and blatant violation of the article 22 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic relations of 1961.

"The embassy is in contact with the Department of Foreign Affairs of Ireland, demanding that the Irish authorities take comprehensive measures to ensure the safety of its staff and their family members.

"The incident is cause of extreme concern. We believe that no people of sound mind could support such senseless and barbaric actions," the spokeswoman said.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

A man in Ireland rammed his truck through the gates of the Russian embassy in Dublin as part of his protest against the Russian invasion of Ukraine—earning applause from onlookers.

A man in Ireland rammed his truck through the gates of the Russian embassy in Dublin as part of his protest against the Russian invasion of Ukraine—earning applause from onlookers. According to local media reports, the incident took place on Monday around 1.30 pm and no injuries were reported. The Irish police have arrested local businessman Desmond Wisley and launched an investigation into the incident of “criminal damage”. "One male was arrested and taken to Rathfarnham Garda Station where he is currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984," a police spokesperson said in a statement. "Investigations are ongoing.” Videos of the incident appeared on social media showing an ecclesiastical truck with a trailer reversing into the gates, forcing them to open. Desmond Wisley has breached the gates of the Russian Embassy in #Dublin. He was overcome after seeing photos of the family killed in Irpin. pic.twitter.com/8SMbZIYxK0 — Laura Moth (@EisabelMoth) March 7, 2022 × After ploughing his lorry into the gates, Wisley got out of his vehicle and handed out photos to other protesters showing what Russian troops are doing in Ukraine, according to The Irish Times. “I've just done this to create a safe corridor for the Russian ambassador to leave Ireland,” Wisely told the crowd of protesters. Also read | Zelensky slams Russia's 'cynicism and propaganda', posts video from his office “I want the ambassador and his colleagues to leave this country, leave this free country,” Wisely added. "It's about time we stood up." As the officer leads him away, uncuffed, Wiley declares: “I’ve done my bit lads. It’s about time Ireland does theirs.” Also read | Fears of energy war between Russia, West grow. What’s at stake? In a statement to The Irish Times, a Russian embassy spokeswoman accused the Garda police officers of standing idle during the incident. “The embassy strongly condemns this criminal act of insanity directed against a peaceful diplomatic mission. The embassy views this incident as a clear and blatant violation of the article 22 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic relations of 1961. "The embassy is in contact with the Department of Foreign Affairs of Ireland, demanding that the Irish authorities take comprehensive measures to ensure the safety of its staff and their family members. "The incident is cause of extreme concern. We believe that no people of sound mind could support such senseless and barbaric actions," the spokeswoman said. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Irish man rams truck into Russian embassy gates, arrested

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