As the harsh winter begins to slowly fade, the frozen battlefields of Ukraine are turning into a different kind of war theater. The melting ice is now clearing paths for the Russian tanks, allowing them to advance swiftly and capture more territory. As Ukraine continues to fight to slow down the advance, take a look at this report.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia focuses on small but steady territorial gains

Russia has begun exercises with its Yars intercontinental ballistic missile system, in what is likely to be seen as another attempt by Moscow to showcase its nuclear strength. This story tells you about the Yars, a nuclear missile that can be moved around on truck carriers or deployed in silos, and happens to be a crucial part of Moscow's nuclear deterrence. Watch in for more details!

Russian military conducts Yars nuclear capable missile drills

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia's tanks roll faster as ice melts, Ukraine struggles to hold ground

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announces that Ukraine has significantly increased its diplomatic and military contact with the United States, marking a shift in the strategic relationship between the two nations amidst ongoing tensions with Russia.

Ukraine has significantly intensified contact with the U.S. says Zelensky

With the war entering a dangerous phase and US President Donald Trump mounting pressure to end the war, Zelensky has finally blinked to say he has agreed to hold direct talks with Vladimir Putin. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky calls for dialogue amid much-awaited Putin-Trump talks

Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky ready to hold talks with Trump

Russia-Ukraine War: Pressure from Trump forces Zelensky to call for dialogue

During his visit to Kyiv, the IAEA chief warned of the escalating nuclear risks posed by ongoing attacks on Ukraine's power grid. The warning highlights concerns over the safety of nuclear facilities and the potential global implications of further energy infrastructure strikes amidst the ongoing conflict.

IAEA chief warns of nuclear risk from attacks on Ukraine’s power grid during Kyiv visit

In the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Donald Trump proposes a controversial approach, suggesting military aid to Ukraine could be linked to securing mineral resources crucial for health and defense. His remarks have sparked debates about foreign policy priorities and geopolitical strategies.

Russia-Ukraine War: Trump's controversial Ukraine gambit, military aid tied to mineral health

Ukrainian President Zelensky calls for an additional $100 billion in U.S. aid to support Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia.

Zelensky says that U.S. still needs to give an additional $100 billion in Aid

Russia's use of glide bombs escalates the strain on Ukraine's air defense systems, which are increasingly unable to fend off attacks amid the ongoing conflict.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian glide bombs adds pressure on Kyiv's diminishing Air Defenses

As Ukrainian troops hang on a sliver of hope of Western Russia which they have occupied for six months, most of the soldiers have been ordered not to interact with the civilians living under their control, the Washington Post reported.&nbsp;
However, there's a small unit in the Ukrainian military which has been assigned specially for that. These soldiers wear uniforms but are unarmed and visit locals to help deliver food and medical aid. They are tasked to persuade the locals to abandon their long-held loyalties to Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;
These Ukrainian soldiers are also filming their outreach. This reflects the controversial role Kyiv plays as occupier in Russia's Kursk region, where some of its troops are engaged in deadly battles with &nbsp;Russian and North Korean troops.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, others are making a military-backed documentary about fighting for the hearts and minds of civilians, according to a Washington Post report.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-and-ukraine-blame-each-other-for-deadly-missile-strike-on-school-in-kursk-that-killed-four-8683804" rel="dofollow">Russia and Ukraine blame each other for deadly missile strike on school in Kursk that killed four</a>
For long, Russia has been hiding the realities of the Ukraine war from its citizens. But, as Ukrainians in the Kursk region attempt to reveal decades of deep-seated Russian propaganda, they are also carefully deploying their own.&nbsp;
They believe that their tactics will bolster its troop's credibility among Russians and disapprove of claims that they are abusing locals in Kursk.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hints-at-major-steps-with-putin-to-end-ukraine-conflict-8679710" rel="dofollow">Trump hints he and Putin could soon take 'decisive steps' to end Ukraine conflict</a>
Moreover, these tactics used by Ukrainian troops are being used among a population largely made up of Soviet-born retirees and others who were unwilling or unable to flee the surprise Ukrainian attack in August.&nbsp;
These people have been cut off from most communication, with no working phone network or electricity, and the Ukrainian troops they meet are the only human contact they have with the outside world.&nbsp;
<h2>'Planting seeds of truth in their hands'</h2>
Col. Oleksii Dmytrashkivskyi, who leads the military&rsquo;s TRO Media division said, "We are planting the seeds of truth in their heads, which I&rsquo;m sure at some point will grow."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-drone-barrage-kills-four-in-east-ukraine-8675037" rel="dofollow">Russian drone barrage kills four in east Ukraine</a>
Dmytrashkivskyi, who is also the spokesman for Ukraine's military commandant office in Kursk, is the one documenting the incursion.&nbsp;
However, the Washington Post was unable to independently verify accounts of the current situation for Russian civilians in Kursk because of the dangers of travelling in the region.
Russia has been claiming that Kyiv is mistreating civilians as it is controlling Kursk.&nbsp;
Amid Russian allegations that torture chambers had been found in parts of Kursk retaken by Russian forces, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters that proof &ldquo;must be voiced and shown.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/russias-new-school-textbook-teaches-children-ukraine-war-was-inevitable-and-forced-upon-it-8661208" rel="dofollow">Russia's new school textbook teaches children Ukraine war was 'inevitable' and 'forced' upon it</a>
Dmytrashkivskyi said that these allegations of mistreatment are not true, adding, "The accusations that people were tortured in cellars are not supported by any evidence.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Ukrainian soldiers are tasked to persuade the locals in Kursk to abandon their long-held loyalties to Russian President Vladimir Putin. 

As Ukrainian troops hang on a sliver of hope of Western Russia which they have occupied for six months, most of the soldiers have been ordered not to interact with the civilians living under their control, the Washington Post reported. However, there's a small unit in the Ukrainian military which has been assigned specially for that. These soldiers wear uniforms but are unarmed and visit locals to help deliver food and medical aid. They are tasked to persuade the locals to abandon their long-held loyalties to Russian President Vladimir Putin. These Ukrainian soldiers are also filming their outreach. This reflects the controversial role Kyiv plays as occupier in Russia's Kursk region, where some of its troops are engaged in deadly battles with Russian and North Korean troops. Meanwhile, others are making a military-backed documentary about fighting for the hearts and minds of civilians, according to a Washington Post report. Also read: Russia and Ukraine blame each other for deadly missile strike on school in Kursk that killed four For long, Russia has been hiding the realities of the Ukraine war from its citizens. But, as Ukrainians in the Kursk region attempt to reveal decades of deep-seated Russian propaganda, they are also carefully deploying their own. They believe that their tactics will bolster its troop's credibility among Russians and disapprove of claims that they are abusing locals in Kursk. Also read: Trump hints he and Putin could soon take 'decisive steps' to end Ukraine conflict Moreover, these tactics used by Ukrainian troops are being used among a population largely made up of Soviet-born retirees and others who were unwilling or unable to flee the surprise Ukrainian attack in August. These people have been cut off from most communication, with no working phone network or electricity, and the Ukrainian troops they meet are the only human contact they have with the outside world. 'Planting seeds of truth in their hands' Col. Oleksii Dmytrashkivskyi, who leads the military’s TRO Media division said, "We are planting the seeds of truth in their heads, which I’m sure at some point will grow." Also read: Russian drone barrage kills four in east Ukraine Dmytrashkivskyi, who is also the spokesman for Ukraine's military commandant office in Kursk, is the one documenting the incursion. However, the Washington Post was unable to independently verify accounts of the current situation for Russian civilians in Kursk because of the dangers of travelling in the region. Russia has been claiming that Kyiv is mistreating civilians as it is controlling Kursk. Amid Russian allegations that torture chambers had been found in parts of Kursk retaken by Russian forces, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters that proof “must be voiced and shown.” Also read: Russia's new school textbook teaches children Ukraine war was 'inevitable' and 'forced' upon it Dmytrashkivskyi said that these allegations of mistreatment are not true, adding, "The accusations that people were tortured in cellars are not supported by any evidence.” Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian troops brainwashing Russian minds in Kursk against Putin and filming it

A day after the attack on a school in Sudzha, a city in Russia's Kursk region, both Moscow and Kyiv have been trading blames for carrying out the deadly strike.
Four people were killed and four others seriously injured after the strike on the school, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, 84 people were rescued by Ukrainian servicemen from the rubble of the building.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-why-ukrainian-soldiers-are-running-away-as-war-with-russia-drags-on-8679412" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Realised I&rsquo;m nobody, just a number&rsquo;: Why Ukrainian soldiers are running away as war with Russia drags on</a>
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/russia-0" rel="dofollow">Russia</a> bombed the boarding school where civilians were sheltering and preparing to evacuate.&nbsp;
"This is a state devoid of civility. And this is an evil that will not stop on its own. But if we act strongly and decisively, even Russia can be forced to stop. And this must be done to ensure the world is safe from Russian bombs," Zelensky said.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This is how Russia wages war&mdash;Sudzha, Kursk region, Russian territory, a boarding school with civilians preparing to evacuate. A Russian aerial bomb. They destroyed the building even though dozens of civilians were there. This is how Russia waged war against Chechnya decades ago.&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/MG4MVhcumS">pic.twitter.com/MG4MVhcumS</a>
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1885779119180238928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
The General Staff said those in need of additional medical assistance were evacuated to medical facilities in Ukraine.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-drone-barrage-kills-four-in-east-ukraine-8675037" rel="dofollow">Russian drone barrage kills four in east Ukraine</a>
Meanwhile, the Russian Ministry of Defence claimed that the Ukrainian forces launched the missile strike on the school, adding that the missiles were launched from Ukraine's Sumy region.
<h2>Strike on Ukraine's Poltava</h2>
In another strike a Russian missile killed 11 people in the central city of Poltava while injuring 16 others, including four children. Twenty Two people were rescued from the rubble and emergency crews worked well into the night.&nbsp;
On Saturday, Russia launched a barrage of drones and missiles against Ukraine, killing at least 15 people and damaging dozens of residential buildings, including the energy infrastructure across the country.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-russia-ready-for-peace-talks-but-rules-out-speaking-directly-with-illegitimate-zelensky-8662995" rel="dofollow">Putin says Russia ready for peace talks but rules out speaking directly with 'illegitimate' Zelensky</a>
Russia on Sunday, sent 55 drones into Ukraine of which 40 were destroyed during the overnight attacks, said Ukrainian officials. Thriteen&nbsp;other drones were "lost", likely having been electronically jammed.&nbsp;
Moreover, the Russian Defence Ministry said that five Ukrainian drones were shot down overnight in five regions of western Russia, three over the Kursk region, and one each over the Belgorod and Bryansk regions.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos &nbsp; (With inputs from agencies)

World: Four people were killed and four others were seriously injured after the strike on the school, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said. 

A day after the attack on a school in Sudzha, a city in Russia's Kursk region, both Moscow and Kyiv have been trading blames for carrying out the deadly strike. Four people were killed and four others seriously injured after the strike on the school, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said. Meanwhile, 84 people were rescued by Ukrainian servicemen from the rubble of the building. Also read: ‘Realised I’m nobody, just a number’: Why Ukrainian soldiers are running away as war with Russia drags on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia bombed the boarding school where civilians were sheltering and preparing to evacuate. "This is a state devoid of civility. And this is an evil that will not stop on its own. But if we act strongly and decisively, even Russia can be forced to stop. And this must be done to ensure the world is safe from Russian bombs," Zelensky said. This is how Russia wages war—Sudzha, Kursk region, Russian territory, a boarding school with civilians preparing to evacuate. A Russian aerial bomb. They destroyed the building even though dozens of civilians were there. This is how Russia waged war against Chechnya decades ago.… pic.twitter.com/MG4MVhcumS — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) February 1, 2025 The General Staff said those in need of additional medical assistance were evacuated to medical facilities in Ukraine. Also read: Russian drone barrage kills four in east Ukraine Meanwhile, the Russian Ministry of Defence claimed that the Ukrainian forces launched the missile strike on the school, adding that the missiles were launched from Ukraine's Sumy region. Strike on Ukraine's Poltava In another strike a Russian missile killed 11 people in the central city of Poltava while injuring 16 others, including four children. Twenty Two people were rescued from the rubble and emergency crews worked well into the night. On Saturday, Russia launched a barrage of drones and missiles against Ukraine, killing at least 15 people and damaging dozens of residential buildings, including the energy infrastructure across the country. Also read: Putin says Russia ready for peace talks but rules out speaking directly with 'illegitimate' Zelensky Russia on Sunday, sent 55 drones into Ukraine of which 40 were destroyed during the overnight attacks, said Ukrainian officials. Thriteen other drones were "lost", likely having been electronically jammed. Moreover, the Russian Defence Ministry said that five Ukrainian drones were shot down overnight in five regions of western Russia, three over the Kursk region, and one each over the Belgorod and Bryansk regions. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Russia and Ukraine blame each other for deadly missile strike on school in Kursk that killed four

When Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine three years ago, Ukrainian soldiers were ready to sacrifice their lives for their country. However, after three years of conflict, the situation has changed. Desertion has become a pressing issue, drawing significant attention in Ukraine. 
Last week, the government launched an investigation into a brigade whose 56 soldiers disappeared during a training session in France, while hundreds of others are also reportedly missing.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-when-russians-hide-north-koreans-shoot-how-pyongyangs-troops-are-reshaping-8633581">'When Russians hide, North Koreans&nbsp;shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war</a>
The brigade's commander has been arrested and faces a 10-year prison sentence for failing to carry out his official duties and not reporting unauthorised absences.
<h2>Ukraine faces severe shortage of soldiers</h2>
Ukraine is facing a severe shortage of soldiers, particularly in infantry units. The Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine&rsquo;s parliament, has been debating efforts to increase recruitment. 
Deserters currently face prison sentences of between 12 and 15 years. However, last summer, the parliament removed criminal penalties for those who voluntarily return to their battalions, restoring their full benefits.
<h2>'I&rsquo;m nobody. Just a number'</h2>
A soldier who fought in the village of Tonenke near Avdiivka in 2023 described his experience to The Guardian: &ldquo;When I arrived I was super-motivated. If necessary, I would give my life.&rdquo; 
Over time, though, his enthusiasm faded. &ldquo;The Russians would smash our positions to the ground,&rdquo; he said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tulsi-gabbard-confirmation-hearing-us-senate-donald-trumps-director-of-national-intelligence-pick-8676030" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: 'Not Putin&rsquo;s or Modi&rsquo;s puppet&rsquo;: Trump's US top spy pick Tulsi Gabbard defends loyalty at confirmation hearing</a>
According to him, senior Ukrainian commanders issued unrealistic orders. While defending a destroyed building, a falling panel struck his shoulder. &ldquo;I realised I&rsquo;m nobody. Just a number,&rdquo; he told The Guardian.
In May of that year, he left his post to seek medical treatment and did not return. His commander listed him as AWOL. 
The soldier claimed he attempted to rejoin his brigade in August 2023 but was told he was no longer wanted. 
He is among thousands of Ukrainian soldiers who have left their units. While the exact number remains classified, officials confirmed to The Guardian that it is substantial.
&ldquo;Everybody is tired. The mood has changed. People used to hug soldiers in the streets. Now they worry about being conscripted,&rdquo; he said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-russia-ready-for-peace-talks-but-rules-out-speaking-directly-with-illegitimate-zelensky-8662995" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Putin says Russia ready for peace talks but rules out speaking directly with 'illegitimate' Zelensky</a>
&ldquo;One guy lost an arm. Another a leg. Some had bullet wounds. Nobody is completely OK. Even so, we managed to achieve some tasks,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>'I decided to go where nobody can find me'</h2>
Another deserter, who had participated in Ukrainian offensives in the Mykolaiv and Kherson regions, shared his perspective with The Guardian: &ldquo;I reached boiling point. So I decided to go where nobody can find me.&rdquo;
Since then, he has been in hiding. &ldquo;We will see what happens. Maybe I get caught and sent to the frontline,&rdquo; he said. However, he said that he would fight again if Russian forces entered his town or if the Ukrainian military became a fully reformed NATO-style force with better leadership.
<h2>'Problem is big'</h2>
Olha Reshetylova, Ukraine&rsquo;s commissioner for protecting service members&rsquo; rights, recognised the gravity of the situation. She told The Guardian, &ldquo;Let&rsquo;s be honest. The problem is big. It&rsquo;s natural in a situation where you&rsquo;ve had three years of major war. People are exhausted. They want to see their families. Their children are growing up without them. Relationships get broken. Wives and husbands can&rsquo;t wait for ever. They feel alone.&rdquo;
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s a complex and complicated problem. We can&rsquo;t solve this with criminal punishment. If it comes to a choice between being killed and going to prison, of course at that moment you will go with the second option,&rdquo; she said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-hints-at-possibility-of-peace-talks-with-russia-says-allies-should-work-on-its-format-8653717" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Zelensky hints at possibility of peace talks with Russia, says allies should work on its &lsquo;format&rsquo;</a>
Reshetylova pointed out that hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers remain in their positions and continue to fight. She suggested that the recruitment crisis could be eased if Ukraine&rsquo;s allies committed their own troops. 
&ldquo;As I see it, it is Europe&rsquo;s armies that are absent without leave. They don&rsquo;t understand &ndash; or don&rsquo;t want to understand &ndash; that this is their war too,&rdquo; she said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Russia Ukraine war Ukraine is facing a severe shortage of soldiers, particularly in infantry units. Desertion has become a pressing issue, drawing significant attention. 

When Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine three years ago, Ukrainian soldiers were ready to sacrifice their lives for their country. However, after three years of conflict, the situation has changed. Desertion has become a pressing issue, drawing significant attention in Ukraine. Last week, the government launched an investigation into a brigade whose 56 soldiers disappeared during a training session in France, while hundreds of others are also reportedly missing. Also read: 'When Russians hide, North Koreans shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war The brigade's commander has been arrested and faces a 10-year prison sentence for failing to carry out his official duties and not reporting unauthorised absences. Ukraine faces severe shortage of soldiers Ukraine is facing a severe shortage of soldiers, particularly in infantry units. The Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine’s parliament, has been debating efforts to increase recruitment. Deserters currently face prison sentences of between 12 and 15 years. However, last summer, the parliament removed criminal penalties for those who voluntarily return to their battalions, restoring their full benefits. 'I’m nobody. Just a number' A soldier who fought in the village of Tonenke near Avdiivka in 2023 described his experience to The Guardian: “When I arrived I was super-motivated. If necessary, I would give my life.” Over time, though, his enthusiasm faded. “The Russians would smash our positions to the ground,” he said. Also read: 'Not Putin’s or Modi’s puppet’: Trump's US top spy pick Tulsi Gabbard defends loyalty at confirmation hearing According to him, senior Ukrainian commanders issued unrealistic orders. While defending a destroyed building, a falling panel struck his shoulder. “I realised I’m nobody. Just a number,” he told The Guardian. In May of that year, he left his post to seek medical treatment and did not return. His commander listed him as AWOL. The soldier claimed he attempted to rejoin his brigade in August 2023 but was told he was no longer wanted. He is among thousands of Ukrainian soldiers who have left their units. While the exact number remains classified, officials confirmed to The Guardian that it is substantial. “Everybody is tired. The mood has changed. People used to hug soldiers in the streets. Now they worry about being conscripted,” he said. Also read: Putin says Russia ready for peace talks but rules out speaking directly with 'illegitimate' Zelensky “One guy lost an arm. Another a leg. Some had bullet wounds. Nobody is completely OK. Even so, we managed to achieve some tasks,” he added. 'I decided to go where nobody can find me' Another deserter, who had participated in Ukrainian offensives in the Mykolaiv and Kherson regions, shared his perspective with The Guardian: “I reached boiling point. So I decided to go where nobody can find me.” Since then, he has been in hiding. “We will see what happens. Maybe I get caught and sent to the frontline,” he said. However, he said that he would fight again if Russian forces entered his town or if the Ukrainian military became a fully reformed NATO-style force with better leadership. 'Problem is big' Olha Reshetylova, Ukraine’s commissioner for protecting service members’ rights, recognised the gravity of the situation. She told The Guardian, “Let’s be honest. The problem is big. It’s natural in a situation where you’ve had three years of major war. People are exhausted. They want to see their families. Their children are growing up without them. Relationships get broken. Wives and husbands can’t wait for ever. They feel alone.” “It’s a complex and complicated problem. We can’t solve this with criminal punishment. If it comes to a choice between being killed and going to prison, of course at that moment you will go with the second option,” she said. Also read: Zelensky hints at possibility of peace talks with Russia, says allies should work on its ‘format’ Reshetylova pointed out that hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers remain in their positions and continue to fight. She suggested that the recruitment crisis could be eased if Ukraine’s allies committed their own troops. “As I see it, it is Europe’s armies that are absent without leave. They don’t understand – or don’t want to understand – that this is their war too,” she said. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Realised I’m nobody, just a number’: Why Ukrainian soldiers are running away as war with Russia drags on

Russian forces are encircling the strategic eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, compromising Ukraine's supply lines and steel production. Watch this report for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia tightens grip on strategic Pokrovsk

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine battles to prevent strategic encirclement

An oil refinery in Russia's southern Volgograd region caught fire after an overnight Ukrainian drone attack, but the blaze has now been put out, the regional governor said on Friday.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine launches drone strikes on Russia's largest oil refinery | WION Originals

Amid impending talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Russian forces are pressing forward on multiple fronts across Ukraine. Both in the air and on the ground.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian drones devastate Ukraine warfront before Putin-Trump talks

Russian forces have stormed and seized the strategic heights of Chasiv Yar, intensifying the conflict as Ukraine's defense efforts continue.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russians storm strategic heights of Chasiv Yar

A large-scale drone attack by Ukraine on Russian territory has left 2 dead and 2 injured, escalating tensions in the ongoing conflict.

Russia-Ukraine War: 2 killed, 2 injured in massive Ukraine Drone attack on Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin has ruled out any negotiations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, calling him “illegitimate.” This comes as Russian forces took control of another key town in the Kharkiv region.

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin rejects talks with ‘illegitimate’ Zelensky as Russia captures another town

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Tuesday that his country could hold peace talks with Ukraine, but ruled out speaking directly with President Volodymyr Zelensky, whom he called "illegitimate".

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin rules out speaking directly with Ukrainian President Zelensky

Overnight, Russia launched an attack on Ukraine using 100 drones, impacting seven regions. Ukraine claimed to have destroyed more than half of the drones, while others disappeared from radar. Over the past few months, Russia has escalated its air campaign in Ukraine, targeting front-line cities such as Kharkiv.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia's barrage of 100 drones felt across seven regions of Ukraine

Russia intensifies its offensive in Ukraine, launching fresh attacks on Kharkiv and hitting residential areas in Odesa. The strikes have resulted in significant damage and casualties, escalating the ongoing conflict between the two nations.

Russia-Ukraine War: Moscow attacks Ukraine's Kharkiv, hits residential areas in Odesa

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has exposed significant vulnerabilities within the European Union, particularly in energy dependence and defense readiness. The conflict has highlighted the need for stronger EU unity and resilience in the face of geopolitical threats.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine conflict exposes EU's strategic weakness

Ukraine's survival will be under a serious threat if peace talks fail to begin by the summer, Ukrainian intelligence chief, has said. Watch this report for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukrainian intelligence chief predicts collapse

Continuing their relentless advance on the Ukrainian front lines, Russian forces have captured the town of Velyka Novosilka in the Donetsk region. Moscow's Defense Ministry stated that Russian troops had "liberated" the settlement, which is located to the west of Donetsk region. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Russian captures Ukrainian town of Velyka Novosilka

In light of rising tensions from the Ukraine War, Donald Trump urges world leaders to initiate global nuclear discussions. This video covers his call for diplomacy and peace talks amidst escalating conflicts and the potential threat of nuclear warfare, highlighting the critical need for dialogue.

Russia-Ukraine War: Donald Trump urges global nuclear talks amid rising tensions

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said he is ready to hold talks with U.S. President Donald Trump. Kremlin has said that Putin is waiting for a signal from Washington a day after Trump said he wanted to meet Putin as soon as possible to secure an end to the war with Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin ready to talk to Trump: 'waiting for signal from Washington'

Russia on Friday responded to US President Donald Trump's remarks, where he said that the war in Ukraine could be ended by reducing the oil prices, by saying that the conflict is about national security and not oil prices.&nbsp;
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the Russia-Ukraine war was triggered by the West's refusal to consider Russian security interests.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The conflict doesn't depend on oil prices,&rdquo; Peskov said in a conference call with reporters.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-ready-to-meet-russias-putin-immediately-to-help-end-russia-ukraine-war-8648730" rel="dofollow">Trump ready to meet Russia's Putin 'immediately' to help end Russia-Ukraine war</a>
He added, "The conflict is ongoing because of the threat to Russia&rsquo;s national security, the threat to Russians living on those territories, and the refusal by the Americans and the Europeans to listen to Russia&rsquo;s security concerns. It&rsquo;s not linked to oil prices.&rdquo;
Trump, while addressing the World Economic Forum on Thursday, claimed that a drop in the oil prices would end Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;
The US president said he would ask the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to lower the price of oil, saying it would end Russia&rsquo;s full-scale invasion of Ukraine &ldquo;immediately&rdquo;.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-vladimir-putin-destroying-russia-by-not-signing-a-deal-to-end-ukraine-war-8639126" rel="dofollow">Trump says Putin 'destroying Russia' by not signing a deal to end Ukraine war</a>
&ldquo;Right now the price is high enough that that war will continue, you gotta bring down the oil price and end the war,&rdquo; he added.&nbsp;
<h2>Putin ready for talks</h2>
Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday that he is ready to hold talks with Trump on the Ukraine conflict. 
"As for the issue of negotiations...we have always said, and I want to emphasise this once again, that we are ready for these negotiations on Ukrainian issues," Putin told a reporter from Russian state TV.
Meanwhile, Peskov on Friday also highlighted that Putin was ready to talk to Trump but was waiting for the 'signal' from Washington.&nbsp;
When asked about Trump's claims that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is ready for a peace deal, Peskov reiterated the Ukrainian leader's earlier decision to rule out any talks with Russia.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-accuses-ukraine-of-civilian-killings-in-village-seized-by-kyivs-army-8635967" rel="dofollow">Russia accuses Ukraine of civilian killings in village seized by Kyiv's army</a>
&ldquo;Zelenskyy can&rsquo;t be ready for a deal,&rdquo; Peskov told reporters, adding that &ldquo;in order to reach a settlement, it&rsquo;s necessary to conduct talks, and Zelenskyy forbade himself to hold talks by his own decree.&rdquo;
<h2>'No angel'&nbsp;</h2>
Trump, in an interview segment with Fox News released on January 23, said that both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukraine&rsquo;s President Volodymyr Zelensky share the blame for the Ukraine-Russia war.&nbsp;
Trump further criticised Zelensky for resisting Russia at the beginning of the invasion instead of cutting a deal.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosions-heard-in-kyiv-as-british-pm-starmer-visits-ukraine-8627086" rel="dofollow">Explosions heard over Ukraine's presidential palace amid British PM Starmer's visit</a>
"Zelensky... shouldn&rsquo;t have allowed this to happen either. He&rsquo;s no angel," Trump said.
"I could have made that deal so easily, and Zelensky decided that 'I want to fight," he said, adding that Ukraine has been fighting against a "much bigger entity."
He further said that Zelensky has "had enough" and is ready for peace.
"We started pouring equipment... and they (Ukraine) had the bravery to use the equipment, but in the end, it&rsquo;s a war that has to be settled," Trump said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the Russia-Ukraine war was triggered by the West's refusal to consider Russian security interests. 

Russia on Friday responded to US President Donald Trump's remarks, where he said that the war in Ukraine could be ended by reducing the oil prices, by saying that the conflict is about national security and not oil prices. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the Russia-Ukraine war was triggered by the West's refusal to consider Russian security interests. “The conflict doesn't depend on oil prices,” Peskov said in a conference call with reporters. Also read: Trump ready to meet Russia's Putin 'immediately' to help end Russia-Ukraine war He added, "The conflict is ongoing because of the threat to Russia’s national security, the threat to Russians living on those territories, and the refusal by the Americans and the Europeans to listen to Russia’s security concerns. It’s not linked to oil prices.” Trump, while addressing the World Economic Forum on Thursday, claimed that a drop in the oil prices would end Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The US president said he would ask the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to lower the price of oil, saying it would end Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine “immediately”. Also read: Trump says Putin 'destroying Russia' by not signing a deal to end Ukraine war “Right now the price is high enough that that war will continue, you gotta bring down the oil price and end the war,” he added. Putin ready for talks Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday that he is ready to hold talks with Trump on the Ukraine conflict. "As for the issue of negotiations...we have always said, and I want to emphasise this once again, that we are ready for these negotiations on Ukrainian issues," Putin told a reporter from Russian state TV. Meanwhile, Peskov on Friday also highlighted that Putin was ready to talk to Trump but was waiting for the 'signal' from Washington. When asked about Trump's claims that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is ready for a peace deal, Peskov reiterated the Ukrainian leader's earlier decision to rule out any talks with Russia. Also read: Russia accuses Ukraine of civilian killings in village seized by Kyiv's army “Zelenskyy can’t be ready for a deal,” Peskov told reporters, adding that “in order to reach a settlement, it’s necessary to conduct talks, and Zelenskyy forbade himself to hold talks by his own decree.” 'No angel' Trump, in an interview segment with Fox News released on January 23, said that both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky share the blame for the Ukraine-Russia war. Trump further criticised Zelensky for resisting Russia at the beginning of the invasion instead of cutting a deal. Also read: Explosions heard over Ukraine's presidential palace amid British PM Starmer's visit "Zelensky... shouldn’t have allowed this to happen either. He’s no angel," Trump said. "I could have made that deal so easily, and Zelensky decided that 'I want to fight," he said, adding that Ukraine has been fighting against a "much bigger entity." He further said that Zelensky has "had enough" and is ready for peace. "We started pouring equipment... and they (Ukraine) had the bravery to use the equipment, but in the end, it’s a war that has to be settled," Trump said. (With inputs from agencies)

'It is about security, not oil,' Russia reacts to Trump's claim on war with Ukraine

U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that he will impose high tariffs and further sanctions on Russia if Russian President Vladimir Putin fails to end the Russia-Ukraine war.

Russia-Ukraine War: Will Putin blink after Trump's warning?

russia-ukraine-war

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

russia ukraine-war