South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin for facilitating the return of South African men who were reportedly lured into joining the Russia-Ukraine war. The development comes amid growing scrutiny over foreign recruitment networks linked to the conflict. Officials said diplomatic engagement helped secure their repatriation, highlighting concerns over misinformation, recruitment tactics, and the broader human impact of the ongoing war.


Russia-Ukraine War: Ramaphosa Thanks Putin for Return of Men Lured Into Russian War 

On the fourth anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war, European Union Chief Ursula von der Leyen, on Tuesday (Feb 24), said that the bloc would deliver on a multi-billion-euro loan for Ukraine despite Hungary, a Moscow-friendly nation of the 27-nation grouping, vetoing the proposal. Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban is stalling both the 90-billion-euro ($106-billion) loan as well as a fresh round of sanctions on Russia until Kyiv re-opens a key oil pipeline.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ukraine, on the other hand, claimed the Druzhba pipeline, which crosses its territory to deliver Russian oil to Slovakia and Hungary, was damagedon &nbsp;January 27 by Russian strikes.&nbsp;"Let me be crystal clear ... the loan was agreed by 27 heads of state and government in the European Council. They have given their word. This word cannot be broken," von der Leyen said.&nbsp;"We will deliver on the loan one way or the other. Let me be very clear. We have different options, and we will use them," she said at a press conference in Kyiv with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky marking the four-year anniversary of Russia's invasion.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-round-of-india-israel-fta-negotiations-begins-in-new-delhi-ahead-of-pm-modi-s-visit-1771951501537">First round of India-Israel FTA negotiations begins in New Delhi ahead of PM Modi’s visit</a>&nbsp;Zelensky blamed Russia for the destruction of the pipeline and said that Moscow forces are likely to strike it again even after it is fixed. He urged Orban to directly negotiate with Russian leader Vladimir Putin to halt strikes on the facility or agree on an "energy ceasefire" with Russia.&nbsp;Since the beginning of the war with Russia, the European Union and its Member States have provided Kyiv with around €193 billion in financial, military, and humanitarian assistance.&nbsp;The new proposed loan of €90 billion for the 2026–2027 period marks a significant structural shift in support. Agreed upon by EU leaders in late 2025 and formally advanced by the Council in February 2026, this "Ukraine Support Loan" is designed to cover two-thirds of Kyiv's projected financing needs. Approximately €60 billion of this package is specifically earmarked to bolster Ukraine's defence industrial base and military procurement, while the remaining €30 billion will provide essential budget support to maintain public services like healthcare and education.

Since the beginning of the war with Russia, the European Union and its Member States have provided Kyiv with around €193 billion in financial, military, and humanitarian assistance.

On the fourth anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war, European Union Chief Ursula von der Leyen, on Tuesday (Feb 24), said that the bloc would deliver on a multi-billion-euro loan for Ukraine despite Hungary, a Moscow-friendly nation of the 27-nation grouping, vetoing the proposal. Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban is stalling both the 90-billion-euro ($106-billion) loan as well as a fresh round of sanctions on Russia until Kyiv re-opens a key oil pipeline. Ukraine, on the other hand, claimed the Druzhba pipeline, which crosses its territory to deliver Russian oil to Slovakia and Hungary, was damagedon January 27 by Russian strikes. "Let me be crystal clear ... the loan was agreed by 27 heads of state and government in the European Council. They have given their word. This word cannot be broken," von der Leyen said. "We will deliver on the loan one way or the other. Let me be very clear. We have different options, and we will use them," she said at a press conference in Kyiv with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky marking the four-year anniversary of Russia's invasion. Also Read: First round of India-Israel FTA negotiations begins in New Delhi ahead of PM Modi’s visit Zelensky blamed Russia for the destruction of the pipeline and said that Moscow forces are likely to strike it again even after it is fixed. He urged Orban to directly negotiate with Russian leader Vladimir Putin to halt strikes on the facility or agree on an "energy ceasefire" with Russia. Since the beginning of the war with Russia, the European Union and its Member States have provided Kyiv with around €193 billion in financial, military, and humanitarian assistance. The new proposed loan of €90 billion for the 2026–2027 period marks a significant structural shift in support. Agreed upon by EU leaders in late 2025 and formally advanced by the Council in February 2026, this "Ukraine Support Loan" is designed to cover two-thirds of Kyiv's projected financing needs. Approximately €60 billion of this package is specifically earmarked to bolster Ukraine's defence industrial base and military procurement, while the remaining €30 billion will provide essential budget support to maintain public services like healthcare and education.

Since the beginning of the war with Russia, the European Union and its Member States have provided Kyiv with around €193 billion in financial, military, and humanitarian assistance.

EU chief vows new €90 billion loan to Ukraine on top of €193 billion it already spent since start of war

Russia observed Defender of the Fatherland Day, a national holiday honoring military personnel and veterans, amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The day included ceremonies, parades, and tributes to Russian servicemen, while the war continues to shape domestic and international perceptions. Observances highlight patriotism and military tradition, even as the conflict in Ukraine draws global attention and scrutiny over Russia’s ongoing military actions.


Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Marks Defender of the Fatherland Day

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has entered its fifth year, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accusing Russian President Vladimir Putin of “embodying the war.” The conflict continues to devastate communities, displace millions, and escalate global tensions. Stay updated with the latest developments from the frontlines and political statements.

Russia-Ukraine War Enters Fifth Year: Zelensky Says Putin ‘Embodies the War

Russia launched a massive drone and missile barrage across Ukraine on the eve of the war anniversary, targeting multiple cities and critical infrastructure. Ukrainian air defences were activated as explosions and air raid sirens were reported in several regions. The strikes come amid heightened tensions and ongoing frontline battles, underscoring the continued intensity of the Russia-Ukraine war as both sides brace for further escalation.


Russia-Ukraine War: Russian Drone & Missile Barrage Hits Ukraine On the Eve of War Anniversary

Russian strikes killed three people and wounded several others overnight, regional authorities said Monday, as Moscow intensified its assaults on the eve of the war's four-year anniversary. In the south, two people were killed when Russian drones hit industrial, energy and civilian infrastructure in the Odesa region, regional governor Oleg Kiper said on Telegram.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Strikes Odesa & Zaporizhzhia Regions Killing Three

Russia has reportedly targeted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure amid ongoing tensions and the protracted war. The strikes threaten power supply across several regions, escalating the humanitarian and economic impact.


Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Strikes Ukraine, Putin Focuses on Nuclear Development 

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Strikes Ukraine's Energy Infrastructure

Russia launched a massive assault on Ukraine, firing 50 missiles and deploying nearly 300 drones across multiple regions, including Kyiv and Odesa. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted most of the attacks, but strikes caused damage to civilian infrastructure and energy facilities. The escalation comes as the war anniversary approaches, highlighting the ongoing intensity of the conflict and the humanitarian and strategic impact on Ukraine.


Russia Unleashes 50 Missiles and Nearly 300 Drones Across Ukraine

Overnight Russian strikes targeted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure in Odesa, killing one person and injuring 24 others. The attacks caused significant damage to power facilities, leaving parts of the city without electricity. Ukrainian authorities condemned the assaults and vowed to reinforce defenses. The incident highlights the ongoing intensity of the Russia-Ukraine war and the growing humanitarian and infrastructural toll on civilians in affected regions.


Russia-Ukraine War: 1 Killed, 24 Injured in Overnight Strikes Target Energy Infra in Ukraine's Odesa

Russia launched a major aerial assault on Ukraine, firing an estimated 50 missiles and around 297 drones in one of the largest overnight attacks as the war’s anniversary approaches. Ukrainian air defences intercepted the majority, but strikes still hit energy infrastructure, residential areas and transport links across multiple regions, killing and injuring civilians and underscoring the ongoing intensity of the conflict.


Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Launched 50 Missiles, 297 Drones at Ukraine as War Anniversary Nears

Ukrainian forces have reportedly fired Caesar self-propelled howitzers toward Russian positions as fighting intensifies along the frontlines. The French-made artillery systems, known for their mobility and precision, have played a key role in Kyiv’s counter-battery and long-range strike capabilities. The development comes amid continued clashes and heightened military activity, as Ukraine seeks to repel advances while maintaining pressure on Russian forces in the ongoing conflict.


Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine Fires Caesar Howitzers Towards Russia

Ukrainian forces carried out strikes deep inside Russian territory, targeting a key missile factory in the Udmurt Republic. The attack marks a significant escalation in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, demonstrating Kyiv’s ability to hit strategic sites far from the frontlines.


Russian Drones Cut Power To 99,000 In Odesa

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin Demands Ukraine Cedes Donestsk To End War

Ukraine Strikes Deep Inside Russian Territory, Hit Key Missile Factory in Udmurt Republic

Ukraine has rejected the latest Donbas proposal reportedly put forward by the United States, as intense fighting continues along key frontlines in eastern Ukraine. The development highlights ongoing disagreements over conflict resolution terms, with Kyiv maintaining its stance on territorial integrity while clashes, artillery exchanges, and drone strikes persist across the contested region amid the prolonged Russia-Ukraine war.


Ukraine Rejects Latest Donbas Proposal From US, Fighting Intensifies on the Frontlines

Ukraine has reported drone strikes in the Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia regions amid ongoing conflict with Russian forces. Local officials said the incidents targeted infrastructure and residential areas, raising concerns over civilian safety and continued aerial threats. The strikes come as fighting persists along multiple fronts and drone use remains a key component of modern warfare in the region.


Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine Reports Drone Strikes in Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia | WION

#Gravitas Two European Union members, Hungary and Slovakia, have stopped diesel deliveries to Ukraine stemming from a dispute over an oil pipeline that has now led to the European Commission stepping in. Further compounding a crisis that has already left millions of Ukrainians without reliable power, particularly during the coldest months of the year.


Russia-Ukraine War: Hungary, Slovakia Halt Diesel Supplies to Ukraine | Gravitas

Restaurants and cafes across Russia are shutting down at the fastest rate since the start of the Ukraine war in 2022 as consumer spending stalls amid a broader economic slowdown. From Moscow to Vladivostok, eateries have closed in increasing numbers as Russians cut back on discretionary spending, choosing cheaper food options amid high inflation, rising costs, and economic pressures. Analysts say the downturn in dining reflects weakening consumption and mounting strain on the hospitality sector.


Russia: Restaurant Closures Hit Fastest Pace Since 2022 As Russian Consumption Slumps | WION

Fresh scrutiny has emerged over reports that British-made components may have surfaced in Russian weapons systems, raising questions about supply chains and sanctions enforcement. The developments have triggered debate over whether Western technology continues to reach Russia despite sweeping restrictions. The issue highlights broader concerns around export controls, dual-use goods, and the challenges of preventing sensitive technology from entering conflict zones.


Russia-Ukraine War: Is Britain Fueling Russia's War Machinery? | WION

Russia’s defence authorities reported intercepting 113 Ukrainian drones in a wave of overnight attacks, with officials saying two people were injured. Regional sources also indicated that a Russian oil refinery was struck during the exchanges. The developments come amid continuing cross-border drone operations and intensifying aerial engagements in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.


Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Downs 113 Ukrainian Drones, Two Injured; Oil Refinery Hit In Russia

Ukraine’s dismissed defence minister has spoken about tensions with President Volodymyr Zelensky, shedding light on internal differences following the reported failure of Kyiv’s attack plan targeting Russia. The remarks add to ongoing debate over military strategy, leadership dynamics, and the broader direction of Ukraine’s war effort. The developments come at a critical stage in the conflict as battlefield and political pressures continue to mount.


Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine's Ousted Minister Rifts with Zelensky Over Failed Operation' | WION 

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine’s Ousted Defence Minister On Rift With Zelensky | WION 

Russia is leveraging harsh winter conditions to advance frontlines in Ukraine, as sub-zero temperatures challenge Ukrainian air defenses. The extreme cold has affected radar systems, aircraft performance, and troop mobility, intensifying the conflict and highlighting the strategic impact of weather on military operations in the ongoing war.


Russia is Using Winter to Push Frontlines, Ukraine's Air Defences Falter in Sub-Zero Temperatures

Freezing temperatures are grounding Ukraine's interceptor drones just as Russia intensifies missile and drone attacks on energy infrastructure. As hypothermia deaths rise and Geneva talks continue, President Zelensky accuses Trump of unfair pressure. Kyiv says that Putin is weaponising winter.


Freezing Cold Grounds Ukraine's Drones | Hardest Winter in the Life of Every Ukrainian | Gravitas

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticised what he described as “unfair” pressure from US President Donald Trump amid the ongoing conflict. The remarks come as Ukraine faces mounting battlefield challenges, with reports highlighting difficulties for air defence systems operating in harsh sub-zero winter conditions.


Ukraine: Zelensky Slams 'Unfair' Pressure from Trump, Ukraine's Air Defences Falter in Sub-Zero War

Russia carried out overnight airstrikes across Ukraine as U.S.-mediated negotiations failed to deliver a breakthrough. The Russia–US–Ukraine talks in Geneva concluded without agreement, highlighting continued deadlock even as fighting on the ground persists.


Ukraine War: Russia Launches Overnight Strikes As US-Mediated Geneva Talks End Without Breakthrough

Russia reports intercepting 151 drones launched by Ukraine overnight, intensifying the ongoing conflict. The drone attacks targeted multiple regions, while Russia claims its air defenses successfully neutralized the threats.

The escalation comes amid continued fighting in eastern Ukraine, with both sides exchanging attacks and countermeasures. Civilians remain at risk, and international observers are closely monitoring the situation.

Trump Dumps Zelensky, Putin Burns Ukraine | Russia Unleashes 400 Drones & 29 Missiles

Russia reports intercepting 151 drones launched by Ukraine overnight, intensifying the ongoing conflict. The drone attacks targeted multiple regions, while Russia claims its air defenses successfully neutralized the threats.

The escalation comes amid continued fighting in eastern Ukraine, with both sides exchanging attacks and countermeasures. Civilians remain at risk, and international observers are closely monitoring the situation.


Russia Bombards Ukrainian Supply Lines, Weapons Depot in Odesa & Central Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Monday (Feb 16) that intelligence reports said that Russians will continue to launch "massive attacks" on energy targets. The president added that more attacks from Russia will make it more difficult to produce an agreement on ending the war, which has been ongoing for around four years now. The Ukrainian leader claimed that Russian attacks are "evolving" with combinations of weapons and require special defence.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-last-time-iran-trump-threatens-tehran-after-meeting-with-netanyahu-says-there-ll-be-no-deal-consequences-1770839117611">'Last time Iran...': Trump threatens Tehran after meeting with Netanyahu, says there'll be 'no deal' consequences</a>&nbsp;This came after Zelensky urged the US and European nations to deport Russian elites who support Moscow’s war effort. In a post on the social media platform X, Zelensky stated that the wealthy relatives of Russian officials must return home from European countries, as they lack “respect" for anyone.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/navalny-poisoning-allegations-is-this-the-first-time-wildlife-toxin-was-allegedly-used-in-a-political-assassination-1771248912958">Navalny poisoning allegations: Is this the first time wildlife toxin was allegedly used in a political assassination?</a>&nbsp;"Europeans have done a lot. But they haven’t yet sanctioned Russian nuclear energy, Rosatom, the persons and their relatives, their children, who live off their money in Europe, in the United States, who pay with these profits for their education at European universities, who own real estate in the United States. A lot of real estate. They financially support children and relatives everywhere," the Ukrainian leader said in the post.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-hitler-wanted-master-race-they-want-master-religion-us-senator-lindsey-graham-compares-khamenei-with-nazis-1771009318196">'Hitler wanted master race. They want master religion': US Senator Lindsey Graham compares Khamenei with Nazis</a>&nbsp;"F**k away to Russia. Go home. You don't respect anybody in the United States. You don't respect the rules. You don't respect democracy. You don't respect Ukraine or Europe. Go home," he added to the post.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/epstein-was-obsessed-with-girls-like-every-unmarried-billionaire-yale-professor-defends-emails-with-sex-offender-on-good-looking-blonde-student-1770906176284">Epstein was 'obsessed with girls, like every unmarried billionaire': Yale professor defends emails with sex offender on 'good-looking blonde' student</a>

President Volodymyr Zelensky warned Russia will continue massive energy attacks, saying evolving strikes hinder peace efforts, while urging tougher sanctions on Rosatom and Russian elites.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Monday (Feb 16) that intelligence reports said that Russians will continue to launch "massive attacks" on energy targets. The president added that more attacks from Russia will make it more difficult to produce an agreement on ending the war, which has been ongoing for around four years now. The Ukrainian leader claimed that Russian attacks are "evolving" with combinations of weapons and require special defence. Also read: 'Last time Iran...': Trump threatens Tehran after meeting with Netanyahu, says there'll be 'no deal' consequences This came after Zelensky urged the US and European nations to deport Russian elites who support Moscow’s war effort. In a post on the social media platform X, Zelensky stated that the wealthy relatives of Russian officials must return home from European countries, as they lack “respect" for anyone. Also read: Navalny poisoning allegations: Is this the first time wildlife toxin was allegedly used in a political assassination? "Europeans have done a lot. But they haven’t yet sanctioned Russian nuclear energy, Rosatom, the persons and their relatives, their children, who live off their money in Europe, in the United States, who pay with these profits for their education at European universities, who own real estate in the United States. A lot of real estate. They financially support children and relatives everywhere," the Ukrainian leader said in the post. Also read: 'Hitler wanted master race. They want master religion': US Senator Lindsey Graham compares Khamenei with Nazis "F**k away to Russia. Go home. You don't respect anybody in the United States. You don't respect the rules. You don't respect democracy. You don't respect Ukraine or Europe. Go home," he added to the post. Also read: Epstein was 'obsessed with girls, like every unmarried billionaire': Yale professor defends emails with sex offender on 'good-looking blonde' student

President Volodymyr Zelensky warned Russia will continue massive energy attacks, saying evolving strikes hinder peace efforts, while urging tougher sanctions on Rosatom and Russian elites.

Russians will continue ‘massive attacks’ on energy targets, says intelligence reports: Zelensky

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Russia-Ukraine War: Ramaphosa Thanks Putin for Return of Men Lured Into Russian War

EU vows new €90bn loan to Ukraine on top of €193bn in aid since start of war

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Marks Defender of the Fatherland Day

Russia-Ukraine War Enters Fifth Year: Zelensky Says Putin ‘Embodies the War

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian Drone & Missile Barrage Hits Ukraine On the Eve of War Anniversary

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Strikes Odesa & Zaporizhzhia Regions Killing Three

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Strikes Ukraine, Putin Focuses on Nuclear Development

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Strikes Ukraine's Energy Infrastructure

Russia Unleashes 50 Missiles and Nearly 300 Drones Across Ukraine

Russia-Ukraine War: 1 Killed, 24 Injured in Overnight Strikes Target Energy Infra in Ukraine's Odesa

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Launched 50 Missiles, 297 Drones at Ukraine as War Anniversary Nears

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine Fires Caesar Howitzers Towards Russia

Russian Drones Cut Power To 99,000 In Odesa

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin Demands Ukraine Cedes Donestsk To End War

Ukraine Strikes Deep Inside Russian Territory, Hit Key Missile Factory in Udmurt Republic

Ukraine Rejects Latest Donbas Proposal From US, Fighting Intensifies on the Frontlines

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine Reports Drone Strikes in Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia | WION

Russia-Ukraine War: Hungary, Slovakia Halt Diesel Supplies to Ukraine | Gravitas

Russia: Restaurant Closures Hit Fastest Pace Since 2022 As Russian Consumption Slumps | WION

Russia-Ukraine War: Is Britain Fueling Russia's War Machinery? | WION

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Downs 113 Ukrainian Drones, Two Injured; Oil Refinery Hit In Russia

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine's Ousted Minister Rifts with Zelensky Over Failed Operation' | WION

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine’s Ousted Defence Minister On Rift With Zelensky | WION

Russia is Using Winter to Push Frontlines, Ukraine's Air Defences Falter in Sub-Zero Temperatures

Freezing Cold Grounds Ukraine's Drones | Hardest Winter in the Life of Every Ukrainian | Gravitas

Ukraine: Zelensky Slams 'Unfair' Pressure from Trump, Ukraine's Air Defences Falter in Sub-Zero War