Russian troops have made significant advances in the last one and a half weeks, the major cities still remain under Ukrainian control. The main battle is of course going to be for the Ukrainian capital Kyiv.

Can Kyiv resist the Russian Assault?

On day 12 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Russian troops have made significant advances over the last one and a half weeks. But major cities still remain under the control of the Ukrainian government. WION's Anas Mallick brings you more insights.

Mapping the Russian invasion of Ukraine; towns of Irpin and Chernihiv bombarded

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and the President of Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskyy, urging the two sides of ceasefire and to ensure the safe evacuation of all the Indians from the region.

PM Modi speaks with Putin, Zelensky, conveys concern for safety of Indians

According to US officials, Russia is recruiting Syrian fighters experienced in urban combat as it ramps up its assault on Ukraine. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has claimed around 20,000 foreign volunteers have traveled to the country to join Kyiv's forces.

US says Russia is recruiting Syrian fighters to fight in Ukraine

Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov and Ukrainian FM Dmytro Kuleba plan to meet on the sidelines of a diplomatic forum in Turkey.

Russian and Ukrainian foreign ministers to meet in Turkey on March 12

A ceasefire attempt in Ukrainian cities has collapsed, with Russia pushing forward with its military offensive. The Russian Defence Ministry has published a video showing tanks driving along roads in the Kyiv, Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russian Defence Ministry releases new video of army

Ukrainian orphanages have been forced to flee after Russian troops attacked the nuclear powerplant on the weekend. They are among the youngest fleeing Ukrainians in search of security. Even Human Rights Commission has confirmed that around 5 million refugees have fled to the surrounding countries and even this makes Ukraine the worst humanitarian crisis in Europe since World War 2.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Kids in Ukraine forced to flee

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict enters day 12 heavy shelling has been reported from the city of Irpin which is located just 26 km away from the capital Kyiv. Irpin is one of the regions where Russian troops continue to shell the town.

Day 12 of Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Irpin suffers heavy shelling

More than 1.5 million Ukrainians have fled to Poland since the start of the Russian invasion on 24 February. The UN estimates that more than 1.5 million refugees have crossed into neighbouring countries since the outbreak of war in Ukraine.

Over 1.5 million people have fled Ukraine since Russian invasion

Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak sparked massive outrage on Sunday (March 06) after he was seen sporting an insignia showcasing support to his country in their ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Kuliak had a 'Z' symbol engraved on his shirt as he stood on the podium to collect his bronze medal in the parallel bars at a Gymnastics World Cup event in Doha, Qatar.

Kuliak had won the bronze medal finishing behind Ukraine's Kovtun Illia, who bagged the gold medal to stand on top of the podium. A Kuliak shared the podium with his Ukrainian rival, he had the symbol 'Z' placed on his shirt. At a time when several Russian athletes have stood up against their country's actions in Ukraine, Kuliak's behaviour has left many in shock.

The letter 'Z' reportedly symbolically represents 'victory' in Russian. Though the letter does not exist in the Cyrillic Russian alphabet, it has been used as a symbol for victory in the Ukraine war. Russia's tanks and military vehicles also have the symbol 'Z' engraved on them as they wreak havoc in Ukraine.

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Just saw that Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak wore 'Z' symbol at the World Cup in Doha yesterday to show his support for the war in Ukraine. Can't think of a more disgusting thing to do and a better reason to ban Russia from sporting events altogether instead of current half measures <a href="https://t.co/1rmV5UNQnR">pic.twitter.com/1rmV5UNQnR</a>
— Tadeusz Giczan (@TadeuszGiczan) <a href="https://twitter.com/TadeuszGiczan/status/1500515900730101768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Ukrainian Illya Kovtun won gold in a gymnastics event in Qatar. Russian Ivan Kuliak won bronze. Then the Russian - with a pompous, smug look on his face - wore a pro-war 'z' symbol on the podium. Disgusting. <a href="https://t.co/BC3hnfvKBo">pic.twitter.com/BC3hnfvKBo</a>
— Don Lewis (@DonLew87) <a href="https://twitter.com/DonLew87/status/1500654928737411074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Reacting to Kuliak's actions, the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) said that it will ask the Gymnastics Ethics Foundation to take disciplinary action against the Russian gymnast while terming his behaviour as 'shocking'. The FIG had already announced that Russian and Belarusian athletes, officials and judges will not be allowed to take part in any FIG-related events from Monday (March 07).

"The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) confirms that it will ask the Gymnastics Ethics Foundation to open disciplinary proceedings against Ivan Kuliak following his shocking behaviour at the Apparatus World Cup in Doha, Qatar,” FIG said in a statement.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-manager-thomas-tuchel-condemns-roman-abramovich-chants-during-ukraine-solidarity-gesture-459553">&nbsp;Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel condemns Roman Abramovich chants during Ukraine solidarity gesture</a>

“The FIG adopted further measures against Russia and Belarus on 4 March,” FIG said in a statement. “From 7 March 2022, Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials, including judges, are not allowed to take part in FIG competitions or FIG-sanctioned competitions," it added.

Several sporting bodies including the likes of the International Olympics Committee, FIFA and UEFA among others have sanctioned Russia in the wake of the invasion of Ukraine. The sporting bodies have banned Russia from hosting any events and the Russian athletes from taking part in any sporting events organised by them.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has received widespread criticism from across the globe as millions of Ukrainians have had to flee their country due to the war.

Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak sparked massive outrage on Sunday (March 06) after he was seen sporting an insignia showcasing support to his country in their ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak sparked massive outrage on Sunday (March 06) after he was seen sporting an insignia showcasing support to his country in their ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Kuliak had a 'Z' symbol engraved on his shirt as he stood on the podium to collect his bronze medal in the parallel bars at a Gymnastics World Cup event in Doha, Qatar. Kuliak had won the bronze medal finishing behind Ukraine's Kovtun Illia, who bagged the gold medal to stand on top of the podium. A Kuliak shared the podium with his Ukrainian rival, he had the symbol 'Z' placed on his shirt. At a time when several Russian athletes have stood up against their country's actions in Ukraine, Kuliak's behaviour has left many in shock. The letter 'Z' reportedly symbolically represents 'victory' in Russian. Though the letter does not exist in the Cyrillic Russian alphabet, it has been used as a symbol for victory in the Ukraine war. Russia's tanks and military vehicles also have the symbol 'Z' engraved on them as they wreak havoc in Ukraine. Just saw that Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak wore 'Z' symbol at the World Cup in Doha yesterday to show his support for the war in Ukraine. Can't think of a more disgusting thing to do and a better reason to ban Russia from sporting events altogether instead of current half measures pic.twitter.com/1rmV5UNQnR — Tadeusz Giczan (@TadeuszGiczan) March 6, 2022 × Ukrainian Illya Kovtun won gold in a gymnastics event in Qatar. Russian Ivan Kuliak won bronze. Then the Russian - with a pompous, smug look on his face - wore a pro-war 'z' symbol on the podium. Disgusting. pic.twitter.com/BC3hnfvKBo — Don Lewis (@DonLew87) March 7, 2022 × Reacting to Kuliak's actions, the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) said that it will ask the Gymnastics Ethics Foundation to take disciplinary action against the Russian gymnast while terming his behaviour as 'shocking'. The FIG had already announced that Russian and Belarusian athletes, officials and judges will not be allowed to take part in any FIG-related events from Monday (March 07). "The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) confirms that it will ask the Gymnastics Ethics Foundation to open disciplinary proceedings against Ivan Kuliak following his shocking behaviour at the Apparatus World Cup in Doha, Qatar,” FIG said in a statement. Also Read: Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel condemns Roman Abramovich chants during Ukraine solidarity gesture “The FIG adopted further measures against Russia and Belarus on 4 March,” FIG said in a statement. “From 7 March 2022, Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials, including judges, are not allowed to take part in FIG competitions or FIG-sanctioned competitions," it added. Several sporting bodies including the likes of the International Olympics Committee, FIFA and UEFA among others have sanctioned Russia in the wake of the invasion of Ukraine. The sporting bodies have banned Russia from hosting any events and the Russian athletes from taking part in any sporting events organised by them. Russia's invasion of Ukraine has received widespread criticism from across the globe as millions of Ukrainians have had to flee their country due to the war.

Russian gymnast sports 'Z' symbol on shirt while sharing podium with Ukrainian winner, sparks outrage

As part of its tactics to disarm Ukraine, the Russian defence ministry has announced that it will target Ukraine enterprises in the defence industry. Russia says that it will use high precision weapons to destroy defence factories in Ukraine.

Russia steps up assault on urban areas | Russia announces plans to strike defence factories

Russia announces plans to strike defence factories

Russia has announced fresh ceasefire to open humanitarian corridors in Ukraine to facilitate the evacuations of civilians from several Ukraine in cities. The Russian military will hold fire on open green corridors in several Ukraine cities including the capital Kyiv 7am onwards. Now Russian defence ministry confirmed that they hold temporary ceasefire to facilitate the evacuation from several Ukraine in cities.

Russia calls for a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine from 7 AM GMT to aid in evacuations

A barrage of Russian missiles destroyed a civilian airport in Vinnytsia in central Ukraine on Sunday. Several cities and airbases in Ukraine have been bombed, shelled or hit with ballistic missiles since Russia launched its 11-day-old invasion.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russia attacks civilian airport in Vinnytsia

Russian President Vladimir Putin has once again set conditions for endling Moscow's invasion in Ukraine. Kremlin has announced that Russia will only halt its military operation if Ukraine stops fighting and Moscow's demands are met.

Russian President Vladimir Putin sets conditions to end Moscow's invasion in Ukraine

The Russia-Ukraine war is making headlines globally but, one name is going to be remembered longer than others, Volodymyr Zelensky. WION tells you how Ukraine won the narrative war due to its President.

Zelensky: Wartime leader on social media

Visa and Mastercard are suspending their operations in Russia in the latest blow to the country’s financial system after its invasion of Ukraine.

Visa, Mastercard halt operations in Russia over Ukraine invasion

The City Council of Mariupol has announced a temporary ceasefire to help evacuate civilians as well as the wounded and dead. The news comes after a Ukrainian-Russian agreement for humanitarian corridors out of the city broke down following reports of Russian shelling.

Fresh attempts of evacuation in Mariupol, second temporary ceasefire announced

The United Nation has estimated that approximately 1.5 million Ukrainian citizens have been displaced during the country’s conflict with Russia. WION tells you more.

UN: Almost 1.5 million people displaced from Ukraine during Russian invasion

Italian police have seized luxurious properties like villas and yachts from high-profile Russians who were placed on an EU sanctions list after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Italian authorities seizes yachts and villas from Russian oligarchs

The next round of talks between Ukraine and Russia will be held on Monday, as the two sides try to negotiate a ceasefire as well as a safe passage corridor for civilians.

Russia, Ukraine to hold third round of talks on Monday

Beyond conventional wisdom, more than the loss of finance, strategy, and economy, there lies a much deeper, often immeasurable - the human cost of war.

Ukraine-Russia Conflict: The Human Cost Of War

Many parts of Europe have been knocked off the internet after it encountered massive “cyberattacks” at the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, news agency AFP reports.

According to telecom company Orange, around 9,000 users of its satellite internet service are without internet following a "cyber event" on February 24 at Viasat, a US satellite operator of which it is a client.

The same was witnessed by one-third of 40,000 subscribers of Eutelsat, the parent company of the bigblu satellite internet service.

According to reports, the outage was felt in Germany, France, Hungary, Greece, Italy and Poland. &nbsp;

On Wednesday,&nbsp;Viasat said that a “cyber event” had caused a "partial network outage" for customers "in Ukraine and elsewhere" in Europe who rely on its KA-SAT satellite.

So far there is no evidence suggesting which country was behind the cyberattacks, with Viasat only saying that “police and state partners” had been notified and were assisting with investigations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-foreign-minister-dmytro-kuleba-accuses-lavrov-of-spreading-misinformation-459024">Ukrainian invasion: Dmytro Kuleba accuses Lavrov of spreading misinformation</a>

Chief of France's Space Command General Michel Friedling confirmed that there had been a cyberattack on a civilian network —Viasat.

"For several days, shortly after the start of operations, we have had a satellite network that covers Europe and Ukraine in particular, which was the victim of a cyberattack, with tens of thousands of terminals that were rendered inoperative immediately after the attack," AFP quoted Friedling as saying.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-ready-to-take-further-severe-measures-if-putin-does-not-stop-459082" hreflang="en">EU ready to take 'further severe measures if Putin does not stop'</a>

It is being reported that around 5,800 wind turbines in Germany and Central Europe—which has a combined output of 11 gigawatts—were also affected by the cyberattacks.

In Russia, institutional websites were made inaccessible from abroad, to protect them from denial of service (DOS) attacks that regularly rendered them inoperable.

(With inputs from agencies)

Many parts of Europe have been knocked off the internet after it encountered massive “cyberattacks” at the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, news agency AFP reports.

Many parts of Europe have been knocked off the internet after it encountered massive “cyberattacks” at the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, news agency AFP reports. According to telecom company Orange, around 9,000 users of its satellite internet service are without internet following a "cyber event" on February 24 at Viasat, a US satellite operator of which it is a client. The same was witnessed by one-third of 40,000 subscribers of Eutelsat, the parent company of the bigblu satellite internet service. According to reports, the outage was felt in Germany, France, Hungary, Greece, Italy and Poland. On Wednesday, Viasat said that a “cyber event” had caused a "partial network outage" for customers "in Ukraine and elsewhere" in Europe who rely on its KA-SAT satellite. So far there is no evidence suggesting which country was behind the cyberattacks, with Viasat only saying that “police and state partners” had been notified and were assisting with investigations. Also read | Ukrainian invasion: Dmytro Kuleba accuses Lavrov of spreading misinformation Chief of France's Space Command General Michel Friedling confirmed that there had been a cyberattack on a civilian network —Viasat. "For several days, shortly after the start of operations, we have had a satellite network that covers Europe and Ukraine in particular, which was the victim of a cyberattack, with tens of thousands of terminals that were rendered inoperative immediately after the attack," AFP quoted Friedling as saying. Also read | EU ready to take 'further severe measures if Putin does not stop' It is being reported that around 5,800 wind turbines in Germany and Central Europe—which has a combined output of 11 gigawatts—were also affected by the cyberattacks. In Russia, institutional websites were made inaccessible from abroad, to protect them from denial of service (DOS) attacks that regularly rendered them inoperable. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Cyber Armageddon’ in Europe: Thousands go offline following Russia-Ukraine war, says report

The devastation that Ukraine is facing has sparked a new debate among Americans, with many claiming that if the embattled Ukrainians were privy to guns they could've defended their country better. Let's take a look at what's being said.

USA debates: Could Ukrainians have defended their country better if they owned more guns?

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.

In the midst of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, a surge in 'Deepfake' videos are being used to spread misinformation against Ukraine.&nbsp;

The sudden surge in such videos has put US authorities on alert.

Apparently, a Russian propaganda campaign called 'Ukraine Today' is using fake accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to promote fake news about the war, according to a report in The Guardian.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/please-use-with-caution-elon-musk-warns-that-starlink-can-be-targeted-by-russia-advises-caution-458726" hreflang="en">'Please use with caution': Elon Musk warns that starlink can be 'targeted' by Russia, advises caution</a>

Officials from US intelligence agencies are monitoring video and audio for manipulation that might result in misinformation.

Reports from Fox News state that the FBI is continuing its fight against illegal deepfakes as the technology improves.

"Audio, video, text and images that are created to show something that didn't necessarily happen, or never occurred," FBI Cyber Division Unit Chief Pranav Shah was quoted as stating in the report.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-shelling-sets-largest-nuclear-power-plant-in-europe-on-fire-says-ukraines-minister-458728" hreflang="en">Russian shelling sets largest nuclear power plant in Europe on fire, says Ukraine's minister</a>

Several fake profiles, posing as pro-Russian Ukrainians have been removed from Facebook and Twitter, according to the report.

Deepfakes are being used by influence operations with ties to Russia and Belarus to spread disinformation against Ukraine.

Video forgeries known as deep fakes make people seem to say things they never said, such as the viral forged video of Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and the forged video of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Over the weekend, Facebook and Twitter removed two anti-Ukraine "covert influence operations." One of them had ties with Russia and the other with Belarus.

Watch |&nbsp;Nuclear war: Putin's threat or rhetoric? Who has how many nuclear warheads?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nuclear-war-putins-threat-or-rhetoric-who-has-how-many-nuclear-warheads-458729/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In recent years, deepfakes have become so convincing that it is difficult to differentiate between them and the real thing.

In a study cited last week by AI News, researchers concluded that humans can no longer distinguish between real and AI-generated "deepfake" faces.

(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. In the midst of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, a surge in 'Deepfake' videos are being used to spread misinformation against Ukraine. The sudden surge in such videos has put US authorities on alert. Apparently, a Russian propaganda campaign called 'Ukraine Today' is using fake accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to promote fake news about the war, according to a report in The Guardian. Also read | 'Please use with caution': Elon Musk warns that starlink can be 'targeted' by Russia, advises caution Officials from US intelligence agencies are monitoring video and audio for manipulation that might result in misinformation. Reports from Fox News state that the FBI is continuing its fight against illegal deepfakes as the technology improves. "Audio, video, text and images that are created to show something that didn't necessarily happen, or never occurred," FBI Cyber Division Unit Chief Pranav Shah was quoted as stating in the report. Also read | Russian shelling sets largest nuclear power plant in Europe on fire, says Ukraine's minister Several fake profiles, posing as pro-Russian Ukrainians have been removed from Facebook and Twitter, according to the report. Deepfakes are being used by influence operations with ties to Russia and Belarus to spread disinformation against Ukraine. Video forgeries known as deep fakes make people seem to say things they never said, such as the viral forged video of Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and the forged video of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Over the weekend, Facebook and Twitter removed two anti-Ukraine "covert influence operations." One of them had ties with Russia and the other with Belarus. Watch | Nuclear war: Putin's threat or rhetoric? Who has how many nuclear warheads? In recent years, deepfakes have become so convincing that it is difficult to differentiate between them and the real thing. In a study cited last week by AI News, researchers concluded that humans can no longer distinguish between real and AI-generated "deepfake" faces. (With inputs from agencies)

Digital weaponry: Russia using deepfakes to spread misinformation against Ukraine, claims report

Even as Russia lies in financial meltdown due to crippling Western sanctions imposed after Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, wealthy Russians are 'panic buying' luxury jewellery and watches that will likely have a high resale value.

As the rouble value continues to fall, many of Russia's wealthy have sought to invest in luxury jewellery and watches; goods that are likely to have a high resale value.

Similar to gold, the prices of designer jewels and watches can hold and even increase in some cases following economic turmoil caused by war and conflict.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-day-9-zelensky-accuses-russia-of-nuclear-terror-trying-to-repeat-the-chernobyl-disaster-458768" hreflang="en">Ukraine crisis day 9: Zelensky accuses Russia of "nuclear terror", trying to "repeat" the Chernobyl disaster</a>

Following the imposition of western sanctions, many&nbsp;of the world's largest companies such as Apple, Nike, Shell, and BP pulled out of Russia. However, luxury European brands remained and have reported an increase in sales.

During the last few days, Bulgari's jewellery sales increased at its Russian stores following the issuance of international sanctions against Putin to restrict the movement of cash.

Selected Russian banks were disconnected from SWIFT financial messaging services after Putin invaded Ukraine, restricting the movement of cash even more.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/please-use-with-caution-elon-musk-warns-that-starlink-can-be-targeted-by-russia-advises-caution-458726" hreflang="en">'Please use with caution': Elon Musk warns that starlink can be 'targeted' by Russia, advises caution</a>

In an interview with Bloomberg, Jean-Christophe Babin, Bulgari's chief executive, said the move probably boosted business and characterized Bulgari's jewellery as a 'safe investment.

Along with Bulgari, other luxury brands such as Cartier, Rolex and Swatch's Omega watches are available in the country.

During early trading, the currency plunged 30 per cent before easing back to 20 per cent down. Its collapse could wipe out the savings of ordinary Russians, many of whom have been seen flocking to ATMs throughout the country to empty their accounts.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia trade restrictions: Nike, Ikea close stores in Russia

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-trade-restrictions-nike-ikea-close-stores-in-russia-458783/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The US cut off the Russian central bank this week in a fresh round of sanctions that effectively bans Americans from doing business with it and significantly limits Russia's ability to defend its currency. &nbsp;

Additionally, the US imposed sanctions on the state investment fund, with an official claiming Joe Biden's intent was to ensure that the Russian economy &nbsp;'goes backward as long as Putin goes forward with his invasion of Ukraine'.

(With inputs from agencies)

Even as Russia lies in financial meltdown due to crippling Western sanctions imposed after Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, wealthy Russians are 'panic buying' luxury jewellery and watches that will likely have a high resale value.

Even as Russia lies in financial meltdown due to crippling Western sanctions imposed after Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, wealthy Russians are 'panic buying' luxury jewellery and watches that will likely have a high resale value. As the rouble value continues to fall, many of Russia's wealthy have sought to invest in luxury jewellery and watches; goods that are likely to have a high resale value. Similar to gold, the prices of designer jewels and watches can hold and even increase in some cases following economic turmoil caused by war and conflict. Also read | Ukraine crisis day 9: Zelensky accuses Russia of "nuclear terror", trying to "repeat" the Chernobyl disaster Following the imposition of western sanctions, many of the world's largest companies such as Apple, Nike, Shell, and BP pulled out of Russia. However, luxury European brands remained and have reported an increase in sales. During the last few days, Bulgari's jewellery sales increased at its Russian stores following the issuance of international sanctions against Putin to restrict the movement of cash. Selected Russian banks were disconnected from SWIFT financial messaging services after Putin invaded Ukraine, restricting the movement of cash even more. Also read | 'Please use with caution': Elon Musk warns that starlink can be 'targeted' by Russia, advises caution In an interview with Bloomberg, Jean-Christophe Babin, Bulgari's chief executive, said the move probably boosted business and characterized Bulgari's jewellery as a 'safe investment. Along with Bulgari, other luxury brands such as Cartier, Rolex and Swatch's Omega watches are available in the country. During early trading, the currency plunged 30 per cent before easing back to 20 per cent down. Its collapse could wipe out the savings of ordinary Russians, many of whom have been seen flocking to ATMs throughout the country to empty their accounts. Watch | Russia trade restrictions: Nike, Ikea close stores in Russia The US cut off the Russian central bank this week in a fresh round of sanctions that effectively bans Americans from doing business with it and significantly limits Russia's ability to defend its currency. Additionally, the US imposed sanctions on the state investment fund, with an official claiming Joe Biden's intent was to ensure that the Russian economy 'goes backward as long as Putin goes forward with his invasion of Ukraine'. (With inputs from agencies)

Even as Ukraine suffers, luxury brands in Russia see sales rise as country’s rich panic-buy jewellery, watches

Estonia allocates over $1.4 million for Ukrainian refugees arriving from the war-torn country, amid the Estonian prime minister calling on NATO to bolster defences of the Baltic members.

Estonia allocates over $1.4 million for Ukrainian refugees

Ukraine has said that Russian troops had seized the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant where a fire had broken out after it had been targeted by shelling.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russia captures Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant

Displaced people line up for food outside Lviv stations as thousands of refugee descend on the western Ukrainian city for rescue. WION's Anas Mallick brings you this ground report from Ukraine.

Ground Report: WION reports from the western Ukrainian city of Lviv

Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday accused Russian forces of resorting to "nuclear terror" and attempting to "repeat" the Chernobyl disaster after invading Russian forces attacked a nuclear power plant.

As Europe's largest nuclear plant caught fire after it was shelled, he urged world leaders to wake up and act before Europe dies "from a nuclear disaster".

"No country other than Russia has ever fired on nuclear power units," he said in a video message released by his office. "This is the first time in our history. In the history of mankind. The terrorist state now resorted to nuclear terror."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-shelling-sets-largest-nuclear-power-plant-in-europe-on-fire-says-ukraines-minister-458728">Russian shelling sets largest nuclear power plant in Europe on fire, says Ukraine's minister</a>

The nuclear power plant in Zaporizhzhia supplies 40 per cent of Ukraine's nuclear energy and houses six of the country's 15 reactors.

Kyiv says the fire started after Russian troops fired on the facility.&nbsp;

"These are tanks equipped with thermal imagers, so they know where they are shooting," said Zelensky.&nbsp;

However, the station's "essential" equipment was not affected and radiation levels were normal, local officials told the UN's atomic watchdog.

Earlier Ukrainian emergency services in a Facebook post had said that "the invaders are not authorising Ukrainian public rescue units to begin extinguishing the fire."

They were eventually able to gain access.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/please-use-with-caution-elon-musk-warns-that-starlink-can-be-targeted-by-russia-advises-caution-458726">'Please use with caution': Elon Musk warns that starlink can be 'targeted' by Russia, advises caution</a>

"As of 05:20 at the Zaporizhzhia NPP in Energodar, State Emergency Service units went to put out the fire in the training building," the state emergency services wrote on Facebook, noting that 40 people and 10 vehicles were involved in the operation.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine last week and began bombarding cities with shells and missiles, Ukraine's nuclear facilities have become a major concern.

"If there is an explosion, it is the end of everything. The end of Europe," Zelensky said. "Only immediate European action can stop Russian troops."

Watch |&nbsp;What is the road ahead for Ukraine? The Russian invasion of Ukraine enters day 9

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-is-the-road-ahead-for-ukraine-the-russian-invasion-of-ukraine-enters-day-9-458748/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Following the attack on a Ukrainian nuclear power plant by invading Russian forces, Boris Johnson also accused Vladimir Putin of putting all of Europe at risk.&nbsp;

"The Prime Minister said the reckless actions of President Putin could now directly threaten the safety of all of Europe," according to a Downing Street statement, adding that Johnson will seek an emergency UN Security Council meeting in the coming hours.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday accused Russian forces of resorting to "nuclear terror" and attempting to "repeat" the Chernobyl disaster after invading Russian forces attacked a nuclear power plant.

Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday accused Russian forces of resorting to "nuclear terror" and attempting to "repeat" the Chernobyl disaster after invading Russian forces attacked a nuclear power plant. As Europe's largest nuclear plant caught fire after it was shelled, he urged world leaders to wake up and act before Europe dies "from a nuclear disaster". "No country other than Russia has ever fired on nuclear power units," he said in a video message released by his office. "This is the first time in our history. In the history of mankind. The terrorist state now resorted to nuclear terror." Also read | Russian shelling sets largest nuclear power plant in Europe on fire, says Ukraine's minister The nuclear power plant in Zaporizhzhia supplies 40 per cent of Ukraine's nuclear energy and houses six of the country's 15 reactors. Kyiv says the fire started after Russian troops fired on the facility. "These are tanks equipped with thermal imagers, so they know where they are shooting," said Zelensky. However, the station's "essential" equipment was not affected and radiation levels were normal, local officials told the UN's atomic watchdog. Earlier Ukrainian emergency services in a Facebook post had said that "the invaders are not authorising Ukrainian public rescue units to begin extinguishing the fire." They were eventually able to gain access. Also read | 'Please use with caution': Elon Musk warns that starlink can be 'targeted' by Russia, advises caution "As of 05:20 at the Zaporizhzhia NPP in Energodar, State Emergency Service units went to put out the fire in the training building," the state emergency services wrote on Facebook, noting that 40 people and 10 vehicles were involved in the operation. Since Russia invaded Ukraine last week and began bombarding cities with shells and missiles, Ukraine's nuclear facilities have become a major concern. "If there is an explosion, it is the end of everything. The end of Europe," Zelensky said. "Only immediate European action can stop Russian troops." Watch | What is the road ahead for Ukraine? The Russian invasion of Ukraine enters day 9 Following the attack on a Ukrainian nuclear power plant by invading Russian forces, Boris Johnson also accused Vladimir Putin of putting all of Europe at risk. "The Prime Minister said the reckless actions of President Putin could now directly threaten the safety of all of Europe," according to a Downing Street statement, adding that Johnson will seek an emergency UN Security Council meeting in the coming hours. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine crisis day 9: Zelensky accuses Russia of "nuclear terror", trying to "repeat" the Chernobyl disaster

Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX, warned that his company's Starlink satellite broadband service could be the next "target" of Russian aggression in Ukraine.

The warning follows one by an internet security researcher who warned that&nbsp;satellite communication devices could serve as "beacons" that Russia could target for airstrikes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-invasion-elon-musk-activates-starlink-internet-service-after-request-from-an-official-457100">Ukraine invasion: Elon Musk activates Starlink internet service after request from an official</a>

"Important warning: Starlink is the only non-Russian communications system still working in some parts of Ukraine, so probability of being targeted is high. Please use with caution," Musk tweeted.

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Important warning: Starlink is the only non-Russian communications system still working in some parts of Ukraine, so probability of being targeted is high. Please use with caution.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1499472139333746691?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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He asked users to "turn on Starlink only when needed and place antenna away as far away from people as possible" and "place light camouflage over antenna to avoid visual detection."

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Turn on Starlink only when needed and place antenna away as far away from people as possible
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1499473384367079429?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Musk said Saturday that Starlink was now active in Ukraine and that SpaceX was sending more stations after a Ukrainian government official tweeted asking Musk to provide the embattled country with Starlink stations.

It was reported Monday that Ukraine had received donated satellite internet, terminals from Starlink, but an internet security researcher warned these could be targeted by the Russians.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russia-ukraine-crisis-where-the-refugees-are-escaping-to-458490" hreflang="en">Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Where the refugees are escaping to?</a>

"...if #Putin controls the air above #Ukraine, users' uplink transmissions become beacons ... for airstrikes," John Scott-Railton, a senior researcher at the University of Toronto's Citizen Lab project, tweeted.

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Re: <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a>'s starlink donation. 
 
Good to see. 
 
But remember: if <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Putin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Putin</a> controls the air above <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a>, users' uplink transmissions become beacons... for airstrikes. 
 
Some background 1/ <a href="https://t.co/0p6J87TtUF">pic.twitter.com/0p6J87TtUF</a>
— John Scott-Railton (@jsrailton) <a href="https://twitter.com/jsrailton/status/1497745011932286979?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"#Russia has decades of experience hitting people by targeting their satellite communications," he added in a series of 15 tweets detailing the risks.

Vice Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov thanks Starlink for&nbsp;"keeping our cities connected and emergency services saving lives!". However, he added, that due to Russian attacks on infrastructure, the country needs generators to maintain Starlink's service.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Risk of a nuclear disaster in Ukraine

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In response, Musk said SpaceX would update its software to reduce peak power consumption so that Starlink could be charged from a car's cigarette lighter.

"Mobile roaming enabled, so phased array antenna can maintain signal while on moving vehicle," he said.

In their first sign of progress since the invasion, which Moscow calls a "special operation," Russia and Ukraine have agreed that humanitarian corridors and possibly a ceasefire around them are needed for fleeing civilians.

(With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX, warned that his company's Starlink satellite broadband service could be the next "target" of Russian aggression in Ukraine. The warning follows one by an internet security researcher who warned that satellite communication devices could serve as "beacons" that Russia could target for airstrikes.

Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX, warned that his company's Starlink satellite broadband service could be the next "target" of Russian aggression in Ukraine. The warning follows one by an internet security researcher who warned that satellite communication devices could serve as "beacons" that Russia could target for airstrikes. Also read | Ukraine invasion: Elon Musk activates Starlink internet service after request from an official "Important warning: Starlink is the only non-Russian communications system still working in some parts of Ukraine, so probability of being targeted is high. Please use with caution," Musk tweeted. Important warning: Starlink is the only non-Russian communications system still working in some parts of Ukraine, so probability of being targeted is high. Please use with caution. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 3, 2022 × He asked users to "turn on Starlink only when needed and place antenna away as far away from people as possible" and "place light camouflage over antenna to avoid visual detection." Turn on Starlink only when needed and place antenna away as far away from people as possible — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 3, 2022 × Musk said Saturday that Starlink was now active in Ukraine and that SpaceX was sending more stations after a Ukrainian government official tweeted asking Musk to provide the embattled country with Starlink stations. It was reported Monday that Ukraine had received donated satellite internet, terminals from Starlink, but an internet security researcher warned these could be targeted by the Russians. Also read | Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Where the refugees are escaping to? "...if #Putin controls the air above #Ukraine, users' uplink transmissions become beacons ... for airstrikes," John Scott-Railton, a senior researcher at the University of Toronto's Citizen Lab project, tweeted. Re: @elonmusk's starlink donation. Good to see. But remember: if #Putin controls the air above #Ukraine, users' uplink transmissions become beacons... for airstrikes. Some background 1/ pic.twitter.com/0p6J87TtUF — John Scott-Railton (@jsrailton) February 27, 2022 × "#Russia has decades of experience hitting people by targeting their satellite communications," he added in a series of 15 tweets detailing the risks. Vice Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov thanks Starlink for "keeping our cities connected and emergency services saving lives!". However, he added, that due to Russian attacks on infrastructure, the country needs generators to maintain Starlink's service. Watch | Gravitas: Risk of a nuclear disaster in Ukraine In response, Musk said SpaceX would update its software to reduce peak power consumption so that Starlink could be charged from a car's cigarette lighter. "Mobile roaming enabled, so phased array antenna can maintain signal while on moving vehicle," he said. In their first sign of progress since the invasion, which Moscow calls a "special operation," Russia and Ukraine have agreed that humanitarian corridors and possibly a ceasefire around them are needed for fleeing civilians. (With inputs from agencies)

'Please use with caution': Elon Musk warns that starlink can be 'targeted' by Russia, advises caution