Russia&rsquo;s Foreign Ministry on Saturday (Jan 11) criticised new US sanctions targeting its energy sector, calling it an attempt to weaken the Russian economy while risking global market instability.
The United States and the United Kingdom announced fresh sanctions on Friday, aimed at Russia&rsquo;s energy industry, including major oil company Gazprom Neft. 
The sanctions come just days before US President Joe Biden&rsquo;s term ends and will affect nearly 400 entities and individuals. 
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-releases-first-testimony-captured-north-korean-soldiers-8611052">&lsquo;Thought it was training, not combat': Ukraine releases first testimony of captured N Korean soldiers | Watch</a>
In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said the sanctions were "an attempt to inflict at least some damage to the Russian economy, even at the cost of the risk of destabilising world markets as the end approaches of President Joe Biden's inglorious tenure in power."
&ldquo;Of course, Washington's hostile actions will not be left without reaction," the ministry added.
The ministry accused US of involving the global energy sector in what it referred to as a "hybrid war" against Russia. &ldquo;Despite the convulsions in the White House and the machinations of the Russophobic lobby in the West, trying to drag the world energy sector into the 'hybrid war' unleashed by the United States against Russia, our country has been and remains a key and reliable player in the global fuel market,&rdquo; it said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/evidence-of-involvement-zelensky-says-ukraine-captured-two-north-korean-soldiers-in-kursk-region-8610796">'Evidence of involvement': Zelensky says Ukraine captured two North Korean soldiers in Kursk region</a>
<h2>Russia says Biden leaving 'scorched earth' for Trump</h2>
Referring to the wildfires in California, Moscow accused Biden&rsquo;s administration of leaving &ldquo;scorched earth&rdquo; for the incoming US President, Donald Trump, claiming the new president would be unable to reverse the sanctions without congressional approval. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov also alleged that the Biden administration was deliberately creating challenges for Trump by leaving behind &ldquo;as heavy a legacy as possible.&rdquo;
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<h2>Zelensky welcomes US sanctions on Russia</h2>
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the sanctions, describing them as a major blow to Russia&rsquo;s ability to sustain its military efforts. &ldquo;These measures deliver a significant blow to the financial foundation of Russia's war machine by disrupting its entire supply chain,&rdquo; Zelensky wrote on social media platform X.
Speaking from the White House on Friday, President Biden defended the sanctions, saying, &ldquo;Putin is in tough shape right now, and I think it's really important that he not have any breathing room to continue to do the god-awful things he continues to do.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-putin-in-tough-shape-as-us-and-uk-impose-sanctions-on-russia-ukraine-war-8609103">Biden says Putin in &lsquo;tough shape&rsquo; as US and UK impose sanctions on Russia</a>
Biden added, &ldquo;There is a real chance Ukraine can prevail&rdquo; if it continues to receive support from Western nations. He admitted the sanctions might result in a slight increase in petrol prices&mdash;&ldquo;as much as three, four cents a gallon&rdquo;&mdash;but emphasised that the measures would have a far greater impact on Russia&rsquo;s economy.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: US, UK announced fresh sanctions aimed at Russia’s energy industry, including major oil company Gazprom Neft. The sanctions come just days before Biden’s term ends.

Russia’s Foreign Ministry on Saturday (Jan 11) criticised new US sanctions targeting its energy sector, calling it an attempt to weaken the Russian economy while risking global market instability. The United States and the United Kingdom announced fresh sanctions on Friday, aimed at Russia’s energy industry, including major oil company Gazprom Neft. The sanctions come just days before US President Joe Biden’s term ends and will affect nearly 400 entities and individuals. Also read: ‘Thought it was training, not combat': Ukraine releases first testimony of captured N Korean soldiers | Watch In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said the sanctions were "an attempt to inflict at least some damage to the Russian economy, even at the cost of the risk of destabilising world markets as the end approaches of President Joe Biden's inglorious tenure in power." “Of course, Washington's hostile actions will not be left without reaction," the ministry added. The ministry accused US of involving the global energy sector in what it referred to as a "hybrid war" against Russia. “Despite the convulsions in the White House and the machinations of the Russophobic lobby in the West, trying to drag the world energy sector into the 'hybrid war' unleashed by the United States against Russia, our country has been and remains a key and reliable player in the global fuel market,” it said. Also read: 'Evidence of involvement': Zelensky says Ukraine captured two North Korean soldiers in Kursk region Russia says Biden leaving 'scorched earth' for Trump Referring to the wildfires in California, Moscow accused Biden’s administration of leaving “scorched earth” for the incoming US President, Donald Trump, claiming the new president would be unable to reverse the sanctions without congressional approval. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov also alleged that the Biden administration was deliberately creating challenges for Trump by leaving behind “as heavy a legacy as possible.” Also read: 'That's a lot of money': NATO faces pressure as Trump reignites spending debate; Germany, Czech react Zelensky welcomes US sanctions on Russia Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the sanctions, describing them as a major blow to Russia’s ability to sustain its military efforts. “These measures deliver a significant blow to the financial foundation of Russia's war machine by disrupting its entire supply chain,” Zelensky wrote on social media platform X. Speaking from the White House on Friday, President Biden defended the sanctions, saying, “Putin is in tough shape right now, and I think it's really important that he not have any breathing room to continue to do the god-awful things he continues to do.” Also read: Biden says Putin in ‘tough shape’ as US and UK impose sanctions on Russia Biden added, “There is a real chance Ukraine can prevail” if it continues to receive support from Western nations. He admitted the sanctions might result in a slight increase in petrol prices—“as much as three, four cents a gallon”—but emphasised that the measures would have a far greater impact on Russia’s economy. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia slams 'hostile' US energy sanctions, says Biden leaving 'scorched earth' for Trump

Ukrainian forces have captured two North Korean soldiers fighting alongside Russian troops in Kursk border region, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Saturday. Watch this report for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky says Ukraine captured two North Korean soldiers in Kursk

Ukrainian President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-says-nothing-more-cruel-than-launching-air-strikes-on-civilians">Volodymyr Zelensky</a> has said forces operating in the Kursk region of Russia have captured two North Korean soldiers.
&ldquo;Our soldiers have captured North Korean military personnel in the Kursk region. Two soldiers, though wounded, survived and were transported to Kyiv, where they are now communicating with the Security Service of Ukraine,&rdquo; Zelensky said Saturday in a statement on X, which include several images of the injured soldiers.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-doubts-donald-trump-can-resolve-ukraine-russia-war-calls-greenland-canada-plans-wild-speculations-8605233">Russia doubts Trump can resolve Ukraine war swiftly; calls Greenland and Canada plans &lsquo;wild speculations&rsquo;</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5s79afs-w6ypzwrb-p3rrtniq">
Our soldiers have captured North Korean military personnel in the Kursk region. Two soldiers, though wounded, survived and were transported to Kyiv, where they are now communicating with the Security Service of Ukraine. This was not an easy task: Russian forces and other North&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/5J0hqbarP6">pic.twitter.com/5J0hqbarP6</a>
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1878046090018042169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2025</a></blockquote>
"This was not an easy task: Russian forces and other North Korean military personnel usually execute their wounded to erase any evidence of North Korea&rsquo;s involvement in the war against Ukraine," he added.
The two wounded soldiers received necessary medical care and are in the custody of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) in Kyiv, according to Zelensky. The president applauded Ukrainian paratroopers and soldiers from the Special Operation Forces for capturing the North Koreans.
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<h2>'World needs to know the truth'</h2>
"As with all prisoners of war, these two North Korean soldiers are receiving the necessary medical assistance. I have instructed the Security Service of Ukraine to grant journalists access to these prisoners. The world needs to know the truth about what is happening," Zelensky added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zeelesnkyseeks-new-opportunities-in-trump-administration-after-us-announces-another-military-aid-package-worth-500-million-8605218">Zelensky seeks 'new opportunities' in Trump administration after Biden announces $500mn military aid</a>
North Korea deployed around 12,000 soldiers in Kursk Oblast, where Ukraine launched a surprise cross-border incursion in August 2024 to bring the war to Russia.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "This was not an easy task: Russian forces and other North Korean military personnel usually execute their wounded to erase any evidence of North Korea’s involvement in the war against Ukraine," Volodymyr Zelensky said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said forces operating in the Kursk region of Russia have captured two North Korean soldiers. “Our soldiers have captured North Korean military personnel in the Kursk region. Two soldiers, though wounded, survived and were transported to Kyiv, where they are now communicating with the Security Service of Ukraine,” Zelensky said Saturday in a statement on X, which include several images of the injured soldiers. Also read: Russia doubts Trump can resolve Ukraine war swiftly; calls Greenland and Canada plans ‘wild speculations’ Our soldiers have captured North Korean military personnel in the Kursk region. Two soldiers, though wounded, survived and were transported to Kyiv, where they are now communicating with the Security Service of Ukraine. This was not an easy task: Russian forces and other North… pic.twitter.com/5J0hqbarP6 — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) January 11, 2025 "This was not an easy task: Russian forces and other North Korean military personnel usually execute their wounded to erase any evidence of North Korea’s involvement in the war against Ukraine," he added. The two wounded soldiers received necessary medical care and are in the custody of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) in Kyiv, according to Zelensky. The president applauded Ukrainian paratroopers and soldiers from the Special Operation Forces for capturing the North Koreans. Also read: Philippines ramps up Spratly Islands upgrades to enhance military capacity amid tension with China 'World needs to know the truth' "As with all prisoners of war, these two North Korean soldiers are receiving the necessary medical assistance. I have instructed the Security Service of Ukraine to grant journalists access to these prisoners. The world needs to know the truth about what is happening," Zelensky added. Also read: Zelensky seeks 'new opportunities' in Trump administration after Biden announces $500mn military aid North Korea deployed around 12,000 soldiers in Kursk Oblast, where Ukraine launched a surprise cross-border incursion in August 2024 to bring the war to Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

'Evidence of involvement': Zelensky says Ukraine captured two North Korean soldiers in Kursk region

Ukrainian President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-carries-out-another-wave-of-attacks-on-ukraine-683191">Vlodymyr Zelensky</a> said Ukraine allies will have to cooperate more once US President-elect Donald Trump takes office. In a statement on Thursday (Jan 9), Zelensky added that the new US administration will bring new opportunities for Ukraine.&nbsp;
"It's clear that a new chapter starts for Europe and the entire world, just 11 days from now, a time when we have to cooperate even more, rely on one another even more, and achieve even greater results together. I see this as a time of opportunities," Zelensky said during a meeting with allies in Germany.&nbsp;
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Zelensky's statement came after US Defence Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-court-restores-plea-deals-for-911-defendants-after-defense-secretary-lloyd-austins-challenge-8582649">Lloyd Austin</a> a new military <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-outgoing-us-president-biden-125-bn-military-aid-for-kyiv-8573331">aid package for Ukraine</a> worth $500 million. The aid was announced during the same meeting in Germany.&nbsp;
The new package from the US includes "additional missiles for Ukrainian air defence, more ammunition, more air-to-ground munitions and other equipment to support Ukraine's F-16s".&nbsp;
European Union's foreign police chief Kaja Kallas said on Thursday (Jan 9) that she "hopes" that the new US administration would continue its support to Ukraine but if that weren't the case, the EU would take the lead.&nbsp;
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"I'm sure that all the other members, and hopefully also the United States, are ready to continue with the support to Ukraine," Kallas said.&nbsp;
She further added, "The European Union is also ready to take over this leadership if the United States is not willing to do so."
<h3>'Strong' US president </h3>
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Speaking in an interview with US podcaster Lex Fridman published Sunday (Jan 5), Zelensky highlighted Trump's influence and suggested the Republican leader could be pivotal in securing a negotiated settlement backed by European nations.
The Ukrainian president has expressed optimism that the &ldquo;strong&rdquo; incoming American president could force Russia into peace talks, potentially ending the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;
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(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

Zelensky is optimistic about the new US administration, seeing it as a chance to strengthen ties and bolster support for Ukraine's strategic aims and security needs.

Ukrainian President Vlodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine allies will have to cooperate more once US President-elect Donald Trump takes office. In a statement on Thursday (Jan 9), Zelensky added that the new US administration will bring new opportunities for Ukraine. "It's clear that a new chapter starts for Europe and the entire world, just 11 days from now, a time when we have to cooperate even more, rely on one another even more, and achieve even greater results together. I see this as a time of opportunities," Zelensky said during a meeting with allies in Germany. Also read | Trump reposts video calling Netanyahu 'deep, dark son of a b***h' Zelensky's statement came after US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin a new military aid package for Ukraine worth $500 million. The aid was announced during the same meeting in Germany. The new package from the US includes "additional missiles for Ukrainian air defence, more ammunition, more air-to-ground munitions and other equipment to support Ukraine's F-16s". European Union's foreign police chief Kaja Kallas said on Thursday (Jan 9) that she "hopes" that the new US administration would continue its support to Ukraine but if that weren't the case, the EU would take the lead. Also read | L&T chairman asks employees to stop 'staring at their wives' at home and work 90 hours a week. Internet is not happy "I'm sure that all the other members, and hopefully also the United States, are ready to continue with the support to Ukraine," Kallas said. She further added, "The European Union is also ready to take over this leadership if the United States is not willing to do so." 'Strong' US president Also read | S Korean Prez Yoon Suk Yeol in doom loop after probe launched against wife for thesis 'plagiarism' Speaking in an interview with US podcaster Lex Fridman published Sunday (Jan 5), Zelensky highlighted Trump's influence and suggested the Republican leader could be pivotal in securing a negotiated settlement backed by European nations. The Ukrainian president has expressed optimism that the “strong” incoming American president could force Russia into peace talks, potentially ending the war in Ukraine. Also read | Chinese woman gives birth four hours after finding out she was pregnant (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky seeks 'new opportunities' in Trump administration after Biden announces $500mn military aid

According to a French army official, several Ukrainian soldiers have abandoned their posts while undergoing training in France. The report from AFP states that members of the 155th Mechanized Brigade, which was intended to be an elite unit for Ukraine and was trained and equipped by France, have deserted. This brigade, named ‘Anne of Kiev’ after the daughter of the medieval prince Yaroslav the Wise who wed French King Henry I, was personally reviewed by French President Emmanuel Macron in northeast France last October.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukrainian Soldiers Go AWOL in France, Military Urges Recruits to Return to Base

As winter sets in, Ukraine’s army faces new and difficult challenges on the battlefield. Harsh weather conditions and the need for adapted strategies are testing the resilience and preparedness of Ukrainian forces amid ongoing conflict.

Russia-Ukraine War: Winter Battlefield Poses New Challenges for Ukraine’s Army

Russia-Ukraine War: Over 100,000 Ukrainian Troops Charged With Desertion

In an interview, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed confidence in President-elect Donald Trump's ability to broker peace talks with Russia. Watch this report for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Macron urges 'realistic' expectations from Ukraine on territory

Russia-Ukraine War: Why Zelensky seeks Trump's guarantee for Ukraine's security?

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin does not want me to have good ties with Trump says Zelensky

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Russia strongly condemns the use of US-made missiles on its soil, escalating tensions in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia opposes use of US-made missiles on its soil

Ukraine launches a U.S.-backed ATACMS missile as part of its ongoing offensive, marking a significant escalation in the conflict.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine fires U.S.-backed ATACMS missile in strategic strike

Russia threatens retaliation after claiming Ukraine launched US-supplied missiles in recent attacks.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia vows retaliation over Ukraine's use of US-supplied missiles

A freelance journalist working for Russian state newspaper Izvestia has been killed in a drone strike near the Russian-controlled city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine, according to the publication.
Izvestia claimed that the attack targeted a civilian vehicle on a highway within a Russian-occupied area. Their correspondent Alexander Martemyanov and five other media workers were injured in the incident.
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&ldquo;The Ukrainian army launched a drone strike on a civilian car carrying Izvestia's freelance correspondent Alexander Martemyanov,&rdquo; the outlet wrote on its Telegram channel. They added that the car was &ldquo;far from the line of contact.&rdquo;&nbsp;
The news outlet, which has been blocked by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-diplomats-visit-syria-for-talks-with-de-facto-leader-sharaa-8588093" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">European Union</a> for allegedly spreading Russian propaganda, said that the vehicle was returning from reporting on shelling in the Russian-held city of Gorlivka when it was hit.
Russian officials have accused Ukraine&rsquo;s military of deliberately targeting Martemyanov, describing the attack as an &ldquo;inhuman terrorist act.&rdquo; In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said, &ldquo;Without a doubt, media representatives were deliberately chosen as targets for a deadly attack. This is also evidenced by the testimonies of those who survived the attack.&rdquo;
The ministry further called the killing &ldquo;yet another brutal crime in a series of bloody atrocities committed by the Zelensky regime, which openly resorts to terrorist methods to eliminate its ideological opponents.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-vows-retaliation-after-ukraine-fires-us-supplied-atacms-missiles-8591479">Russia vows 'retaliation' after Ukraine fires US-supplied ATACMS missiles</a>
<h2>'All guilty will be brought to inevitable punishment': Russia</h2>
Moscow has called on international organisations, including UNESCO, to respond to the incident. &ldquo;We demand that yet another brutal murder of a Russian war correspondent receive an appropriate response from Audrey Azoulay (UNESCO head), as prescribed by her mandate,&rdquo; said Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry.&nbsp;
Zakharova criticised <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-unesco-listed-rubab-faces-extinction-amid-talibans-music-ban-in-afghanistan-8575450">UNESCO</a> for failing to acknowledge Russian journalists who have been killed. She claimed that a recent draft report by the organisation&rsquo;s Director-General on journalist safety lacked any mention of Russian media reporters who have died. She accused UNESCO of being complicit in &ldquo;terrorist attacks&rdquo; through &ldquo;political distortions and statistical manipulations.&rdquo;
&ldquo;All those guilty of the crime against Russian journalists will be identified and brought to inevitable punishment,&rdquo; Zakharova added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: “The Ukrainian army launched a drone strike on a civilian car carrying Izvestia's freelance correspondent Alexander Martemyanov,” the outlet wrote on its Telegram channel. 

A freelance journalist working for Russian state newspaper Izvestia has been killed in a drone strike near the Russian-controlled city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine, according to the publication. Izvestia claimed that the attack targeted a civilian vehicle on a highway within a Russian-occupied area. Their correspondent Alexander Martemyanov and five other media workers were injured in the incident. Also read: New York becomes first US city to implement congestion charge scheme despite Trump's objection “The Ukrainian army launched a drone strike on a civilian car carrying Izvestia's freelance correspondent Alexander Martemyanov,” the outlet wrote on its Telegram channel. They added that the car was “far from the line of contact.” The news outlet, which has been blocked by the European Union for allegedly spreading Russian propaganda, said that the vehicle was returning from reporting on shelling in the Russian-held city of Gorlivka when it was hit. Russian officials have accused Ukraine’s military of deliberately targeting Martemyanov, describing the attack as an “inhuman terrorist act.” In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said, “Without a doubt, media representatives were deliberately chosen as targets for a deadly attack. This is also evidenced by the testimonies of those who survived the attack.” The ministry further called the killing “yet another brutal crime in a series of bloody atrocities committed by the Zelensky regime, which openly resorts to terrorist methods to eliminate its ideological opponents.” Also read: Russia vows 'retaliation' after Ukraine fires US-supplied ATACMS missiles 'All guilty will be brought to inevitable punishment': Russia Moscow has called on international organisations, including UNESCO, to respond to the incident. “We demand that yet another brutal murder of a Russian war correspondent receive an appropriate response from Audrey Azoulay (UNESCO head), as prescribed by her mandate,” said Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry. Zakharova criticised UNESCO for failing to acknowledge Russian journalists who have been killed. She claimed that a recent draft report by the organisation’s Director-General on journalist safety lacked any mention of Russian media reporters who have died. She accused UNESCO of being complicit in “terrorist attacks” through “political distortions and statistical manipulations.” “All those guilty of the crime against Russian journalists will be identified and brought to inevitable punishment,” Zakharova added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Inhuman terrorist act': Moscow accuses Ukraine of 'deliberately' killing Russian journalist in drone strike

On January 3, 2025, Russia launched a ballistic missile attack on Chernihiv, Ukraine, resulting in one fatality and four injuries. Watch to know more.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russia bombards Ukraine's Chernihiv, 1 dead

Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, former U.S. President Donald Trump has promised to push for peace, but his statements are raising concerns about potential compromises on Ukraine’s sovereignty. Analysts worry about the implications of Trump's approach to the conflict.

Russia-Ukraine war: Trump's peace promise fears of Ukrainian compromise

Russia launched a devastating aerial attack on the heart of Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, intensifying the ongoing conflict. The strike targeted key locations, causing significant damage and raising concerns over the city's safety and security as the war continues.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian Aerial Attack On The Heart Of Ukrainian Capital

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict marks the end of Europe's reliance on Russian gas, as countries seek alternative energy sources. With pipelines cut off and supply routes disrupted, Europe is now navigating a critical shift toward energy independence and diversification.

Russia-Ukraine: Europe's Russian Gas Era Comes To An End

The breakaway Moldovan region of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-urges-citizens-including-annexed-ukrainians-to-vote-as-moldova-accuses-russia-of-breaking-laws-699893">Transdniestria</a> cut heating and hot water supplies to households on Wednesday after Russia stopped supplying gas via Ukraine.
"There is no heating or hot water," an employee of local energy company Tirasteploenergo told Reuters by phone from Tiraspol, the main city of the breakaway territory. She said she did not know how long the situation would last.
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<h2>Transit deal between Russia and Ukraine expires&nbsp;</h2>
Transdniestria is a pro-Russian entity that split from the rest of Moldova after the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-it-may-consider-own-options-if-us-resumes-nuclear-testing-under-trumps-watch-8570852">Soviet Union</a> collapsed in 1991. It was receiving Russian gas via Ukraine, but that supply route was halted on Wednesday with the expiry of a transit deal between the two warring countries.
A statement on the energy company's website said the heating cuts took effect at 7 a.m. local time on Wednesday (Jan 1), but some facilities, such as hospitals, were exempt.
It urged residents to dress warmly, gather family members together in a single room, hang blankets or thick curtains over windows and balcony doors, and use electric heaters.
"It is forbidden to use gas or electric stoves to heat the apartment&mdash;this can lead to tragedy," the company said.
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Transdniestria has existed generally peacefully side by side with Moldova since a brief post-Soviet war in 1992. Some 1,500 Russian troops are stationed there.
The local parliament last month sent an appeal to the Kremlin and the Russian parliament to reach a new agreement with Ukraine to enable gas supplies to continue. Moscow said at the time it would protect its citizens and soldiers in Transdniestria.
Until the expiry of its gas transit deal with Ukraine, Russia was supplying Moldova with about 2 billion cubic metres of gas per year, pumped via Transdniestria.
Moldova accuses Russia of exploiting its energy dependence on Moscow in order to destabilise the country, something Moscow denies.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

World: Transdniestria, a pro-Russian entity that split from Moldova after the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, was receiving Russian gas via Ukraine, but that supply route was halted on Wednesday.

The breakaway Moldovan region of Transdniestria cut heating and hot water supplies to households on Wednesday after Russia stopped supplying gas via Ukraine. "There is no heating or hot water," an employee of local energy company Tirasteploenergo told Reuters by phone from Tiraspol, the main city of the breakaway territory. She said she did not know how long the situation would last. Also read: Russia's Gazprom to cut gas supplies to Moldova from Jan 1 Transit deal between Russia and Ukraine expires Transdniestria is a pro-Russian entity that split from the rest of Moldova after the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991. It was receiving Russian gas via Ukraine, but that supply route was halted on Wednesday with the expiry of a transit deal between the two warring countries. A statement on the energy company's website said the heating cuts took effect at 7 a.m. local time on Wednesday (Jan 1), but some facilities, such as hospitals, were exempt. It urged residents to dress warmly, gather family members together in a single room, hang blankets or thick curtains over windows and balcony doors, and use electric heaters. "It is forbidden to use gas or electric stoves to heat the apartment—this can lead to tragedy," the company said. Also read: Ukraine war: Kyiv halts Russian gas flow to Europe, calls it 'historic' Transdniestria has existed generally peacefully side by side with Moldova since a brief post-Soviet war in 1992. Some 1,500 Russian troops are stationed there. The local parliament last month sent an appeal to the Kremlin and the Russian parliament to reach a new agreement with Ukraine to enable gas supplies to continue. Moscow said at the time it would protect its citizens and soldiers in Transdniestria. Until the expiry of its gas transit deal with Ukraine, Russia was supplying Moldova with about 2 billion cubic metres of gas per year, pumped via Transdniestria. Moldova accuses Russia of exploiting its energy dependence on Moscow in order to destabilise the country, something Moscow denies. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Moldova's breakaway region Transdniestria faces heating cuts as Russia halts gas supply

2024 – A year that kept the world on its toes, shattering expectations and rewriting the rulebook on politics and global stability. 

On 'Did You Believe?', we break down the stories that stunned, shocked, and shaped 2024. Watch in for more details!

From Spark To Spotlight: How It Started Vs Where Are We Now?

Russia is set to abandon a moratorium on deploying intermediate and shorter-range nuclear missiles, citing U.S. Plans to deploy similar weapons globally. The two countries control over 90% of the global nuclear arsenals.

The New Nuclear Arms Race

Russia and Ukraine have carried out a major prisoner exchange, with over three hundred soldiers from both sides released in a deal mediated by the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
According to Russia&rsquo;s Ministry of Defence, 150 Ukrainian prisoners of war were exchanged for the same number of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-vows-response-after-state-media-blocked-on-telegram-in-eu-8577944" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Russian</a> troops. In a statement, the ministry said, &ldquo;On Dec. 30, as a result of the negotiation process, 150 Russian servicemen were returned from territory controlled by the Kyiv regime. In return, 150 Ukrainian prisoners of war were handed over.&rdquo;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-us-support-strengthened-israel-and-ukraine-in-their-wars-8574196" aria-label="How US support strengthened Israel and Ukraine in their wars">How US support strengthened Israel and Ukraine in their wars</a>
The ministry added, "Currently, all Russian servicemen are in the territory of the Republic of Belarus, where they are receiving the necessary psychological and medical assistance, as well as the opportunity to contact their relatives. All released servicemen will be delivered to the Russian Federation for treatment and rehabilitation in medical institutions of the Russian Ministry of Defense."&nbsp;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-not-satisfied-with-us-president-elect-trumps-nato-freeze-and-peacekeeper-plan-for-ukraine-report-8576040" aria-label="Russia 'not satisfied' with Donald Trump's Ukraine peace plan:&nbsp;Report">Russia 'not satisfied' with Donald Trump's Ukraine peace plan:&nbsp;Report</a>
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that 189 Ukrainians had been released as part of the exchange. "We are working to free everyone from Russian captivity. This is our goal. We do not forget anyone," he said.
President Zelensky added that those released included defenders from key locations: Azovstal, Mariupol, the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, and Snake Island. Among the released prisoners were soldiers, border guards, officers, and two civilians captured in Mariupol.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=ukraine" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ukraine&rsquo;s government</a> said that Moscow has so far released a total of 3,956 individuals both military personnel and civilians, through prisoner swaps since the war began.
<h2>'Very soon our guys will celebrate New Year in their native land'</h2>
Video shared by Russia&rsquo;s human rights commissioner, Tatyana Moskalkova, showed soldiers in winter gear standing near buses. Moskalkova thanked them for their service, &ldquo;I thank you for your service, patience, and courage,&rdquo; while wishing them a happy New Year.
"Very soon our guys will embrace their relatives and friends and celebrate the New Year in their native land," she wrote in a Telegram message.
Meanwhile, Zelensky posted images of Ukrainian soldiers holding yellow-and-blue flags while seated on a coach bus after their release. This marked the 59th prisoner exchange since the beginning of Russia&rsquo;s full-scale invasion and was one of the largest swaps to date.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that 189 Ukrainians had been freed as part of the exchange. "We are working to free everyone from Russian captivity. This is our goal. We do not forget anyone," he said.

Russia and Ukraine have carried out a major prisoner exchange, with over three hundred soldiers from both sides released in a deal mediated by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). According to Russia’s Ministry of Defence, 150 Ukrainian prisoners of war were exchanged for the same number of Russian troops. In a statement, the ministry said, “On Dec. 30, as a result of the negotiation process, 150 Russian servicemen were returned from territory controlled by the Kyiv regime. In return, 150 Ukrainian prisoners of war were handed over.” Also read: How US support strengthened Israel and Ukraine in their wars The ministry added, "Currently, all Russian servicemen are in the territory of the Republic of Belarus, where they are receiving the necessary psychological and medical assistance, as well as the opportunity to contact their relatives. All released servicemen will be delivered to the Russian Federation for treatment and rehabilitation in medical institutions of the Russian Ministry of Defense." Also read: Russia 'not satisfied' with Donald Trump's Ukraine peace plan: Report Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that 189 Ukrainians had been released as part of the exchange. "We are working to free everyone from Russian captivity. This is our goal. We do not forget anyone," he said. President Zelensky added that those released included defenders from key locations: Azovstal, Mariupol, the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, and Snake Island. Among the released prisoners were soldiers, border guards, officers, and two civilians captured in Mariupol. Ukraine’s government said that Moscow has so far released a total of 3,956 individuals both military personnel and civilians, through prisoner swaps since the war began. 'Very soon our guys will celebrate New Year in their native land' Video shared by Russia’s human rights commissioner, Tatyana Moskalkova, showed soldiers in winter gear standing near buses. Moskalkova thanked them for their service, “I thank you for your service, patience, and courage,” while wishing them a happy New Year. "Very soon our guys will embrace their relatives and friends and celebrate the New Year in their native land," she wrote in a Telegram message. Meanwhile, Zelensky posted images of Ukrainian soldiers holding yellow-and-blue flags while seated on a coach bus after their release. This marked the 59th prisoner exchange since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion and was one of the largest swaps to date. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow, Kyiv exchange 300 prisoners in UAE-brokered deal

A new report calls for NATO to take more decisive actions to support Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. The report emphasizes the need for stronger military and political backing to help Ukraine defend itself and counter Russia's aggression.

Russia-Ukraine War: NATO Must Take Decisive Actions To Support Ukraine, Says Report

The United States on Monday announced nearly $6 billion in additional military and budget assistance for Ukraine as President Joe Biden uses his final weeks in office to surge aid to Kyiv before President-elect Donald Trump takes over.
Biden announced $2.5 billion in additional security assistance for Ukraine.
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said the United States has made available $3.4 billion in additional budget aid to Ukraine, giving the war-torn country critical resources amid intensifying Russian attacks on Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure.
"At my direction, the United States will continue to work relentlessly to strengthen Ukraine&rsquo;s position in this war over the remainder of my time in office," Biden said in a statement.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-accuses-elon-musk-of-trying-to-influence-elections-with-afd-endorsements-8578786" aria-label="Germany accuses Elon Musk of 'trying to influence' elections with AfD endorsements">Germany accuses Elon Musk of 'trying to influence' elections with AfD endorsements</a>
Under USAI, military equipment is procured from the defence industry or&nbsp;partners, rather than drawn from American stocks, meaning it can take months or years to arrive on the battlefield. Yellen said&nbsp;the direct budget assistance, provided in coordination with the U.S. Agency for International Development and the State Department, marked the final disbursement under the 2024 Ukraine Security Supplemental Appropriations Act.
The U.S. Congress has approved $175 billion in total assistance for Ukraine since Russia's invasion of Ukraine nearly three years ago, according to the nonpartisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget. As per reports, the Russians have been using North Korean troops to bolster their fighting position.
North Korean forces are&nbsp;experiencing mass casualties&nbsp;on the front lines of Russia's war against Ukraine, with 1,000 of their troops killed or wounded in the last week alone in Russia's Kursk region, White House spokesperson John Kirby said on Friday.
Biden said the new assistance would provide Ukraine with "an immediate influx of capabilities that it continues to use to great effect on the battlefield and longer-term supplies of air defence, artillery, and other critical weapons systems."
Nearly three years into the war, Washington has committed billions of dollars in aid for Ukraine, but it is uncertain if the aid will continue at that pace under Trump, who succeeds Biden on Jan. 20.
Trump has said he wants to bring the war to a swift end.
During the presidential campaign, Trump questioned the level of U.S. involvement in the conflict, suggesting European allies should bear more of the financial burden.
Some of his fellow Republicans, who will control both the House of Representatives and Senate starting next month, have&nbsp;also cooled on sending more aid to Kyiv.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unitedhealthcare-employees-get-trained-to-deny-medical-claims-ex-employee-8578769" aria-label="UnitedHealthcare staff gets trained to deny medical claims: Ex-employee">UnitedHealthcare staff gets trained to deny medical claims: Ex-employe</a>
A U.S. official said the $3.4 billion in budget funding brings the total in U.S. budget aid to Ukraine to just over $30 billion since Russia's invasion in February 2022. Most of those funds are used to keep Ukraine's government running by paying salaries to teachers and other state employees.
Washington has separately provided approximately $61.4 billion in security assistance to Kyiv since the start of the war, according to the Pentagon.
Biden said the defence department is in the process of delivering hundreds of thousands of artillery rounds, thousands of rockets, and hundreds of armoured vehicles, "which will strengthen Ukraine&rsquo;s hand as it heads into the winter."
Yellen said continued economic aid for Ukraine was crucial to allow it to maintain government services and continue to defend its sovereignty, warning against moves to cut funding.
"Ukraine&rsquo;s success is in America&rsquo;s core national interest," she said, vowing to continue to pressure Moscow with sanctions and to help position Ukraine to achieve a just peace.
"We must not retreat in this effort."
<div class="post-content">
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
</div>

World: Biden's announcement includes $1.25 billion in military aid drawn from U.S. stockpiles and a $1.22 billion Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) package. 

The United States on Monday announced nearly $6 billion in additional military and budget assistance for Ukraine as President Joe Biden uses his final weeks in office to surge aid to Kyiv before President-elect Donald Trump takes over. Biden announced $2.5 billion in additional security assistance for Ukraine. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said the United States has made available $3.4 billion in additional budget aid to Ukraine, giving the war-torn country critical resources amid intensifying Russian attacks on Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure. "At my direction, the United States will continue to work relentlessly to strengthen Ukraine’s position in this war over the remainder of my time in office," Biden said in a statement. Also read | Germany accuses Elon Musk of 'trying to influence' elections with AfD endorsements Under USAI, military equipment is procured from the defence industry or partners, rather than drawn from American stocks, meaning it can take months or years to arrive on the battlefield. Yellen said the direct budget assistance, provided in coordination with the U.S. Agency for International Development and the State Department, marked the final disbursement under the 2024 Ukraine Security Supplemental Appropriations Act. The U.S. Congress has approved $175 billion in total assistance for Ukraine since Russia's invasion of Ukraine nearly three years ago, according to the nonpartisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget. As per reports, the Russians have been using North Korean troops to bolster their fighting position. North Korean forces are experiencing mass casualties on the front lines of Russia's war against Ukraine, with 1,000 of their troops killed or wounded in the last week alone in Russia's Kursk region, White House spokesperson John Kirby said on Friday. Biden said the new assistance would provide Ukraine with "an immediate influx of capabilities that it continues to use to great effect on the battlefield and longer-term supplies of air defence, artillery, and other critical weapons systems." Nearly three years into the war, Washington has committed billions of dollars in aid for Ukraine, but it is uncertain if the aid will continue at that pace under Trump, who succeeds Biden on Jan. 20. Trump has said he wants to bring the war to a swift end. During the presidential campaign, Trump questioned the level of U.S. involvement in the conflict, suggesting European allies should bear more of the financial burden. Some of his fellow Republicans, who will control both the House of Representatives and Senate starting next month, have also cooled on sending more aid to Kyiv. Also read | UnitedHealthcare staff gets trained to deny medical claims: Ex-employe A U.S. official said the $3.4 billion in budget funding brings the total in U.S. budget aid to Ukraine to just over $30 billion since Russia's invasion in February 2022. Most of those funds are used to keep Ukraine's government running by paying salaries to teachers and other state employees. Washington has separately provided approximately $61.4 billion in security assistance to Kyiv since the start of the war, according to the Pentagon. Biden said the defence department is in the process of delivering hundreds of thousands of artillery rounds, thousands of rockets, and hundreds of armoured vehicles, "which will strengthen Ukraine’s hand as it heads into the winter." Yellen said continued economic aid for Ukraine was crucial to allow it to maintain government services and continue to defend its sovereignty, warning against moves to cut funding. "Ukraine’s success is in America’s core national interest," she said, vowing to continue to pressure Moscow with sanctions and to help position Ukraine to achieve a just peace. "We must not retreat in this effort." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Biden administration announces $5.9 billion military aid to Ukraine

Russia is not satisfied with the proposals reportedly made by US President-elect Donald Trump's team to postpone Ukraine's NATO membership and the deployment of peacekeepers, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-foreign-minister-lavrov-backs-indias-unsc-bid-at-unga-762855">Russian Foreign Minister Sergey</a> Lavrov said during an interview with the Russian News Agency TASS on Sunday (December 29).
Citing leaks and Trump&rsquo;s interview with Time magazine on 12 December, Lavrov said, &ldquo;He is talking about &lsquo;freezing&rsquo; hostilities along the line of engagement and transferring further responsibility for confronting Russia to the Europeans. We are certainly not satisfied with the proposals made by representatives of the president-elect's team to postpone Ukraine's membership in NATO for 20 years and to deploy a peacekeeping contingent of &lsquo;UK and European forces&rsquo; in Ukraine," the Russian top diplomat said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/azerbaijan-president-confirms-plane-crash-caused-by-russian-shooting-regrets-false-narrative-8575645">Azerbaijan president confirms plane crash caused by Russian shooting, regrets &lsquo;false narrative&rsquo;</a>
"Until January 20 - the date of inauguration - Donald Trump has the status of 'president-elect,' and all policy on all fronts is determined by the incumbent president and his administration. And so far, only the latter is authorised to engage with Russia on behalf of the United States," he added.&nbsp;
"From time to time, as we are regularly informed, this happens, but there is no talk of negotiations on Ukraine in such contacts," the Russian foreign minister said.
Reports suggest that Trump discussed these proposals during a 7 December meeting in Paris with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron.&nbsp;
<h2>Putin 'ready' to talk with Trump anytime</h2>
Trump during his campaign had claimed he would&nbsp;bring the war to an end&nbsp;"within 24 hours" of taking office, although he did not provide specific details on how he would do it.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-outgoing-us-president-biden-125-bn-military-aid-for-kyiv-8573331">Ukraine war: US Prez Biden to announce $1.25 bn military aid for Kyiv</a>
When asked about Trump&rsquo;s comments on a potential peace agreement during his annual year-end press conference, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-it-may-consider-own-options-if-us-resumes-nuclear-testing-under-trumps-watch-8570852">Russian President Vladimir Putin</a> said he would welcome talks with the incoming leader. &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t know when I will see him. He isn&rsquo;t saying anything about it. I haven&rsquo;t spoken to him in more than four years. I am ready, of course. Any time,&rdquo; Putin said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Citing leaks and Trump’s interview with Time magazine on 12 December, Lavrov said, “We are certainly not satisfied with the proposals made by representatives of the president-elect's team to postpone Ukraine's membership in NATO."

Russia is not satisfied with the proposals reportedly made by US President-elect Donald Trump's team to postpone Ukraine's NATO membership and the deployment of peacekeepers, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said during an interview with the Russian News Agency TASS on Sunday (December 29). Citing leaks and Trump’s interview with Time magazine on 12 December, Lavrov said, “He is talking about ‘freezing’ hostilities along the line of engagement and transferring further responsibility for confronting Russia to the Europeans. We are certainly not satisfied with the proposals made by representatives of the president-elect's team to postpone Ukraine's membership in NATO for 20 years and to deploy a peacekeeping contingent of ‘UK and European forces’ in Ukraine," the Russian top diplomat said. Also read: Azerbaijan president confirms plane crash caused by Russian shooting, regrets ‘false narrative’ "Until January 20 - the date of inauguration - Donald Trump has the status of 'president-elect,' and all policy on all fronts is determined by the incumbent president and his administration. And so far, only the latter is authorised to engage with Russia on behalf of the United States," he added. "From time to time, as we are regularly informed, this happens, but there is no talk of negotiations on Ukraine in such contacts," the Russian foreign minister said. Reports suggest that Trump discussed these proposals during a 7 December meeting in Paris with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron. Putin 'ready' to talk with Trump anytime Trump during his campaign had claimed he would bring the war to an end "within 24 hours" of taking office, although he did not provide specific details on how he would do it. Also read: Ukraine war: US Prez Biden to announce $1.25 bn military aid for Kyiv When asked about Trump’s comments on a potential peace agreement during his annual year-end press conference, Russian President Vladimir Putin said he would welcome talks with the incoming leader. “I don’t know when I will see him. He isn’t saying anything about it. I haven’t spoken to him in more than four years. I am ready, of course. Any time,” Putin said. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia 'not satisfied' with Donald Trump's Ukraine peace plan: Report

The United States has been the key ally of Israel and Ukraine in their wars with Hamas, Hezbollah, and Russia respectively. However, the nature of the support to the warring nations has been different in its own way.&nbsp;
Be it in terms of military or financial aid, America has been defending Israel and Ukraine since the beginning of the wars as it shares good relations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=zelensky" rel="dofollow">Zelensky </a>and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.&nbsp;
In comparison, Netanyahu defies US President Joe Biden more bluntly than Zelensky, as the Ukrainian president has been more sympathetic since the war started.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-israel-uses-us-thaad-system-for-first-time-to-intercept-houthi-missile-what-is-it-8573666">Watch: Israel uses US THAAD system for first time to intercept Houthi missile. What is it?</a>
Despite the US talks and advice, Zelensky has not been taking meaningful steps to achieve a realistic ceasefire with Russia. However, he is hoping to reclaim all of Ukraine's lost territory by force.&nbsp;
<h2>US support to Ukraine</h2>
The Russia-Ukraine war has been going on now for more than two years, in which Washington has been playing a key role in providing military aid to Ukraine in its fight with one of the world's most powerful militaries.&nbsp;
Since 2022, the US Congress has passed five bills and provided a total of USD 175 billion, mostly for intelligence, weapons, and training.&nbsp;
A major shift in US support for Ukraine came to light when the Biden administration authorised Kyiv to use US-supplied long-range missiles to strike deeper inside Russia.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-outgoing-us-president-biden-125-bn-military-aid-for-kyiv-8573331" rel="dofollow">Ukraine war: US Prez Biden to announce $1.25 bn military aid for Kyiv</a>
This came after Russia positioned North Korean troops along Ukraine's northern border to try to reclaim hundreds of miles of territory seized by Ukrainian forces.&nbsp;
However, now the situation can change in a larger perspective with Donald Trump coming into the picture as he will soon take over the US administration.&nbsp;
President-elect Trump's foreign policy approach has always been more isolationist, stressing a focus on "America First".&nbsp;
This can further affect the wide foreign interventions, especially in Europe and Ukraine. After returning to office, his position on support to Ukraine and NATO could shift, which can further reduce US aid to Ukraine in its war with Russia.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-sentences-singer-to-55-years-in-jail-for-criticising-ukraine-offensive-8571826" rel="dofollow">Russia sentences singer to 5.5 years in jail for criticising Ukraine offensive</a>
<h2>US support to Israel&nbsp;</h2>
As compared to the past decades, US military aid to Israel has been the highest amid its war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. In the escalating war, over 40,000 Palestinians have died, the United Nations and the Gaza health ministry stated.&nbsp;
The war began on October 7, last year, when Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing approximately 1,200 Israelis and taking hundreds of people hostage in Gaza.&nbsp;
Following that, the war has escalated into a wider region, and now, it is not just with Hamas, but also with Hezbollah and Iran.&nbsp;
The US has spent at least USD 17.9 billion on military aid to Israel since the war began, according to a report for Brown University&rsquo;s Costs of War project published in October.&nbsp;
The US, however, is bound by the Leahy Law, which means that the country cannot provide security assistance to foreign governments or groups that commit gross human rights violations.&nbsp;
However, some legal scholars have alleged that America has not applied the law in the case of Israel as it has with other West Asian countries.&nbsp;
<h2>Wider point of view</h2>
Some US and Israeli analysts have argued that Washington's aid to Israel should be reevaluated because Israel is now a wealthy country, the fourteenth richest per capita and one of the most advanced militaries in the world.
In May 2024, CFR Senior Fellow Steven A. Cook said that US military aid should be phased out over ten years and replaced with a series of bilateral agreements on security cooperation.&nbsp;
Late Martin S. Indyk, former US ambassador to Israel and CFR Distinguished Fellow, also called for alteration of the aid.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The US-Israel relationship would be a lot healthier without this dependence. Time for Israel at seventy-five to stand on its own two feet,&rdquo; he posted on X in June last year.
Meanwhile, the Russia-Ukraine war has taken a shift weeks before Donald Trump takes over the US administration, as Joe Biden rushes out billions of dollars more in military aid to Ukraine.&nbsp;
Recently, Trump has been insisting that Russia and Ukraine immediately reach a ceasefire, saying that Ukraine should probably prepare to receive less US military aid.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: America has been defending Israel and Ukraine since the beginning of the wars as it shares good relations with Ukrainian President and Israeli Prime Minister. 

The United States has been the key ally of Israel and Ukraine in their wars with Hamas, Hezbollah, and Russia respectively. However, the nature of the support to the warring nations has been different in its own way. Be it in terms of military or financial aid, America has been defending Israel and Ukraine since the beginning of the wars as it shares good relations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In comparison, Netanyahu defies US President Joe Biden more bluntly than Zelensky, as the Ukrainian president has been more sympathetic since the war started. Also read: Watch: Israel uses US THAAD system for first time to intercept Houthi missile. What is it? Despite the US talks and advice, Zelensky has not been taking meaningful steps to achieve a realistic ceasefire with Russia. However, he is hoping to reclaim all of Ukraine's lost territory by force. US support to Ukraine The Russia-Ukraine war has been going on now for more than two years, in which Washington has been playing a key role in providing military aid to Ukraine in its fight with one of the world's most powerful militaries. Since 2022, the US Congress has passed five bills and provided a total of USD 175 billion, mostly for intelligence, weapons, and training. A major shift in US support for Ukraine came to light when the Biden administration authorised Kyiv to use US-supplied long-range missiles to strike deeper inside Russia. Also read: Ukraine war: US Prez Biden to announce $1.25 bn military aid for Kyiv This came after Russia positioned North Korean troops along Ukraine's northern border to try to reclaim hundreds of miles of territory seized by Ukrainian forces. However, now the situation can change in a larger perspective with Donald Trump coming into the picture as he will soon take over the US administration. President-elect Trump's foreign policy approach has always been more isolationist, stressing a focus on "America First". This can further affect the wide foreign interventions, especially in Europe and Ukraine. After returning to office, his position on support to Ukraine and NATO could shift, which can further reduce US aid to Ukraine in its war with Russia. Also read: Russia sentences singer to 5.5 years in jail for criticising Ukraine offensive US support to Israel As compared to the past decades, US military aid to Israel has been the highest amid its war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. In the escalating war, over 40,000 Palestinians have died, the United Nations and the Gaza health ministry stated. The war began on October 7, last year, when Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing approximately 1,200 Israelis and taking hundreds of people hostage in Gaza. Following that, the war has escalated into a wider region, and now, it is not just with Hamas, but also with Hezbollah and Iran. The US has spent at least USD 17.9 billion on military aid to Israel since the war began, according to a report for Brown University’s Costs of War project published in October. The US, however, is bound by the Leahy Law, which means that the country cannot provide security assistance to foreign governments or groups that commit gross human rights violations. However, some legal scholars have alleged that America has not applied the law in the case of Israel as it has with other West Asian countries. Wider point of view Some US and Israeli analysts have argued that Washington's aid to Israel should be reevaluated because Israel is now a wealthy country, the fourteenth richest per capita and one of the most advanced militaries in the world. In May 2024, CFR Senior Fellow Steven A. Cook said that US military aid should be phased out over ten years and replaced with a series of bilateral agreements on security cooperation. Late Martin S. Indyk, former US ambassador to Israel and CFR Distinguished Fellow, also called for alteration of the aid. “The US-Israel relationship would be a lot healthier without this dependence. Time for Israel at seventy-five to stand on its own two feet,” he posted on X in June last year. Meanwhile, the Russia-Ukraine war has taken a shift weeks before Donald Trump takes over the US administration, as Joe Biden rushes out billions of dollars more in military aid to Ukraine. Recently, Trump has been insisting that Russia and Ukraine immediately reach a ceasefire, saying that Ukraine should probably prepare to receive less US military aid. (With inputs from agencies)

How US support strengthened Israel and Ukraine in their wars

The United States is set to announce $1.25 billion in military aid for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-animals-poisoned-blown-up-at-top-secret-uk-military-lab-8572706">Ukraine</a>, according to a report by The Associated Press (AP).
<h2>What will the aid package include?</h2>
This aid package will include a large quantity of munitions, along with those for the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) and the HAWK air defence system. Stinger missiles, along with 155 mm and 105 mm artillery rounds, are also part of the aid.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-troops-killing-themselves-rather-than-surrendering-to-ukraine-forces-claims-us-8573283">N Korean troops killing themselves rather than surrendering to Ukraine, claims US</a>
The announcement will mark the Biden administration&rsquo;s 22nd aid package under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. Officials are expected to make the announcement on Monday, according to AP.
Earlier this month, President Biden announced a separate $988 million aid package for Ukraine, aimed at ensuring the country has "the tools it needs to prevail in its fight against Russian aggression."
During a recent speech at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in California, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin reaffirmed the administration&rsquo;s stance on supporting Ukraine. 
"This administration has made its choice. And so has a bipartisan coalition in Congress. The next administration must make its own choice," Austin said. 
"But, from this library, from this podium, I am confident that President Reagan would have stood on the side of Ukraine, American security and human freedom," he added.
<h2>Why does this package matter?</h2>
This new package comes amidst Russia's recent attacks on Ukraine&rsquo;s power infrastructure and ahead of the incoming Trump administration.
During his campaign, President-elect <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-elect-donald-trump-names-fierce-fighter-kevin-cabrera-as-panama-ambassador-8567276" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump</a>, along with Vice President-elect JD Vance, heavily criticised the Biden administration&rsquo;s support for Ukraine following Russia&rsquo;s invasion in 2022.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/portable-speaker-bomb-russia-ukraine-war-murder-plot-by-ukraine-8573309">Ukraine war: Russia claims it foiled Kyiv plot to kill top officer using &lsquo;speaker bomb&rsquo;</a>
Trump during his campaign had claimed he would bring the war to an end "within 24 hours" of taking office, although he did not provide specific details on how he would do it. 
While Vice President-elect JD Vance had earlier said that Ukraine should cede the territory seized by Russia and establish a demilitarised zone. This proposal was rejected by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
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&nbsp;and&nbsp;videos.

World, Ukraine war: President Biden announced a separate $988 million aid package for Ukraine ensuring the country has "the tools it needs to prevail in its fight against Russia"

The United States is set to announce $1.25 billion in military aid for Ukraine, according to a report by The Associated Press (AP). What will the aid package include? This aid package will include a large quantity of munitions, along with those for the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) and the HAWK air defence system. Stinger missiles, along with 155 mm and 105 mm artillery rounds, are also part of the aid. Also read: N Korean troops killing themselves rather than surrendering to Ukraine, claims US The announcement will mark the Biden administration’s 22nd aid package under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. Officials are expected to make the announcement on Monday, according to AP. Earlier this month, President Biden announced a separate $988 million aid package for Ukraine, aimed at ensuring the country has "the tools it needs to prevail in its fight against Russian aggression." During a recent speech at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in California, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin reaffirmed the administration’s stance on supporting Ukraine. "This administration has made its choice. And so has a bipartisan coalition in Congress. The next administration must make its own choice," Austin said. "But, from this library, from this podium, I am confident that President Reagan would have stood on the side of Ukraine, American security and human freedom," he added. Why does this package matter? This new package comes amidst Russia's recent attacks on Ukraine’s power infrastructure and ahead of the incoming Trump administration. During his campaign, President-elect Donald Trump, along with Vice President-elect JD Vance, heavily criticised the Biden administration’s support for Ukraine following Russia’s invasion in 2022. Also read: Ukraine war: Russia claims it foiled Kyiv plot to kill top officer using ‘speaker bomb’ Trump during his campaign had claimed he would bring the war to an end "within 24 hours" of taking office, although he did not provide specific details on how he would do it. While Vice President-elect JD Vance had earlier said that Ukraine should cede the territory seized by Russia and establish a demilitarised zone. This proposal was rejected by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. 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.

Ukraine war: US Prez Biden to announce $1.25 bn military aid for Kyiv

North Korean troops deployed in Russia&rsquo;s Kursk region, fighting Ukraine have been facing severe losses since the day they began to help Russian forces in its war with Ukraine. US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby stressed that the troops sent by North Korea, are killing themselves rather than risking capture.&nbsp;
Emphasising that the North Korean generals see their soldiers as "expendable", Kirby said that more than 1,000 North Korean soldiers had been killed or wounded in the last week.&nbsp;
However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky estimated that almost 3,000 Pyongyang soldiers have been killed or injured so far.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-soldier-captured-by-ukraine-dies-from-injuries-confirms-south-koreas-spy-agency-8570790">North Korean soldier captured by Ukraine dies from injuries, claims South Korea's spy agency</a>
A &ldquo;human wave&rdquo; of North Korean soldiers fighting on Russia's side in the Ukraine war are being sent to their deaths in &ldquo;hopeless&rdquo; attacks by generals who saw them as "expendable", he said.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We now assess that North Korean forces are conducting massed dismounted assaults against Ukrainian positions in Kursk, and these human wave tactics that we&rsquo;re seeing haven&rsquo;t really been all that effective,&rdquo; the spokesperson added.&nbsp;
"We also have reports of North Korean soldiers taking their own lives rather than surrendering to Ukrainian forces," he said, adding that the soldiers are taking such actions likely out of fear of reprisal against their families in North Korea in case they are captured.&nbsp;
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Kirby continues that these North Korean soldiers appear to be "highly indoctrinated", pushing attacks even when it is clear that those attacks are "futile".&nbsp;
<h2>'Several North Korean soldiers dead'</h2>
Menawhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday said that several North Korean soldiers who were "seriously wounded" died from their injuries after being captured by Ukrainian forces.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Our soldiers managed to take them prisoner. But they were very seriously wounded and could not be resuscitated,&rdquo; he said.&nbsp;
Zelensky has also accused Russia of sending North Korean troops to the battlefield with "minimal protection".&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-says-over-3000-north-koreans-killed-or-wounded-in-kursk-region-786276" rel="dofollow"> Ukraine's Zelensky says over 3,000 North Koreans killed or wounded in Kursk region</a>
&ldquo;They have a lot of losses. A lot. And we see that the Russian military and North Korean supervisors are not interested in the survival of these Koreans at all,&rdquo; he said.
On Friday, South Korea's spy agency claimed that one wounded North Korean soldier, captured by Ukraine, died from his injuries.
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&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Kirby said that these North Korean soldiers appear to be "highly indoctrinated", pushing attacks even when it is clear that those attacks are "futile". 

North Korean troops deployed in Russia’s Kursk region, fighting Ukraine have been facing severe losses since the day they began to help Russian forces in its war with Ukraine. US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby stressed that the troops sent by North Korea, are killing themselves rather than risking capture. Emphasising that the North Korean generals see their soldiers as "expendable", Kirby said that more than 1,000 North Korean soldiers had been killed or wounded in the last week. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky estimated that almost 3,000 Pyongyang soldiers have been killed or injured so far. Also read: North Korean soldier captured by Ukraine dies from injuries, claims South Korea's spy agency A “human wave” of North Korean soldiers fighting on Russia's side in the Ukraine war are being sent to their deaths in “hopeless” attacks by generals who saw them as "expendable", he said. “We now assess that North Korean forces are conducting massed dismounted assaults against Ukrainian positions in Kursk, and these human wave tactics that we’re seeing haven’t really been all that effective,” the spokesperson added. "We also have reports of North Korean soldiers taking their own lives rather than surrendering to Ukrainian forces," he said, adding that the soldiers are taking such actions likely out of fear of reprisal against their families in North Korea in case they are captured. Also read: Russia sentences singer to 5.5 years in jail for criticising Ukraine offensive Kirby continues that these North Korean soldiers appear to be "highly indoctrinated", pushing attacks even when it is clear that those attacks are "futile". 'Several North Korean soldiers dead' Menawhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday said that several North Korean soldiers who were "seriously wounded" died from their injuries after being captured by Ukrainian forces. “Our soldiers managed to take them prisoner. But they were very seriously wounded and could not be resuscitated,” he said. Zelensky has also accused Russia of sending North Korean troops to the battlefield with "minimal protection". Also read: Ukraine's Zelensky says over 3,000 North Koreans killed or wounded in Kursk region “They have a lot of losses. A lot. And we see that the Russian military and North Korean supervisors are not interested in the survival of these Koreans at all,” he said. On Friday, South Korea's spy agency claimed that one wounded North Korean soldier, captured by Ukraine, died from his injuries. 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)

N Korean troops killing themselves rather than surrendering to Ukraine, claims US

A Russian court on Friday sentenced a singer who burned his passport in protest at Moscow's Ukraine offensive to five and a half years in prison.
Eduard Sharlot, 26, was found guilty of "publicly insulting" the religious feelings of believers and "rehabilitating Naziism" by a court in the Volga city of Samara in a case over videos he published online, the RIA Novosti state news agency reported.
Moscow has sentenced dozens of people to years in prison for publicly opposing its offensive on Ukraine, launched in February 2022.
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&nbsp;singer had posted a video in June 2023 in which he burned his Russian passport in protest at the military campaign.
In another video, he nailed a photograph of Patriarch Kirill, the head of Russia's Orthodox Church that has staunchly backed the offensive, to a crucifix.
Sharlot initially left Russia for Armenia after the offensive but was arrested at Saint Petersburg airport in November 2023 upon his attempted return to Russia.
Since ordering troops into Ukraine, Russia has tightened its laws against domestic dissent and stepped up a campaign to arrest and imprison people who criticise its actions in Ukraine.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sanctions-seven-military-firms-over-us-aid-to-taiwan-8571778" aria-label="China sanctions seven military firms over US aid to Taiwan">China sanctions seven military firms over US aid to Taiwan</a>
Virtually all Kremlin opponents are either dead, in exile or behind bars.
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Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
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Sharlot initially left Russia for Armenia after the offensive but was arrested at Saint Petersburg airport in November 2023 upon his attempted return to Russia.

A Russian court on Friday sentenced a singer who burned his passport in protest at Moscow's Ukraine offensive to five and a half years in prison. Eduard Sharlot, 26, was found guilty of "publicly insulting" the religious feelings of believers and "rehabilitating Naziism" by a court in the Volga city of Samara in a case over videos he published online, the RIA Novosti state news agency reported. Moscow has sentenced dozens of people to years in prison for publicly opposing its offensive on Ukraine, launched in February 2022. Also read | Over 6,000 prisoners escape Mozambique prison amid unrest in country singer had posted a video in June 2023 in which he burned his Russian passport in protest at the military campaign. In another video, he nailed a photograph of Patriarch Kirill, the head of Russia's Orthodox Church that has staunchly backed the offensive, to a crucifix. Sharlot initially left Russia for Armenia after the offensive but was arrested at Saint Petersburg airport in November 2023 upon his attempted return to Russia. Since ordering troops into Ukraine, Russia has tightened its laws against domestic dissent and stepped up a campaign to arrest and imprison people who criticise its actions in Ukraine. Also read | China sanctions seven military firms over US aid to Taiwan Virtually all Kremlin opponents are either dead, in exile or behind bars. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Russia sentences singer to 5.5 years in jail for criticising Ukraine offensive

South Korea's spy agency said on Friday (December 27, 2024) it had confirmed that a North Korean soldier sent to Russia's war against Ukraine had been captured by Ukrainian forces.
Pyongyang has deployed thousands of troops to reinforce Russian troops, including in the Kursk border region where Ukraine mounted a shock border incursion in August.
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"Through real-time information sharing with an allied country's intelligence agency, it has been confirmed that one injured North Korean soldier has been captured," South Korea's National Intelligence Service said in a statement.
The soldier was captured by the Ukrainian army, an intelligence source told AFP, adding that the location where he was seized was unknown. 
The first confirmation of the capture of a North Korean soldier came days after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Monday that nearly 3,000 North Korean soldiers had been "killed or wounded" so far.
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Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) also said Monday that more than 1,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded.
The JCS had also said that Pyongyang is reportedly "preparing for the rotation or additional deployment of soldiers" and supplying "240mm rocket launchers and 170mm self-propelled artillery" to the Russian army.
Seoul's military believes that North Korea was seeking to modernise its conventional warfare capabilities through combat experience gained in the Russia-Ukraine war.
North Korean state media said Friday that Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a New Year's message to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, saying "the bilateral ties between our two countries have been elevated after our talks in June in Pyongyang".
A landmark defence pact went into effect in December after the two sides exchanged ratification documents. 
Putin hailed the deal in June as a "breakthrough document".
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Ukraine war updates: Reports say that a North Korean soldier fighting for Russia has been captured by Ukraine, in the first such incident. North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to reinforce Russian troops, including in the Kursk border region where Ukraine mounted a shock border incursion in August.

South Korea's spy agency said on Friday (December 27, 2024) it had confirmed that a North Korean soldier sent to Russia's war against Ukraine had been captured by Ukrainian forces. Pyongyang has deployed thousands of troops to reinforce Russian troops, including in the Kursk border region where Ukraine mounted a shock border incursion in August. Also read: South Korea's suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol faces impeachment hearing over martial law crisis "Through real-time information sharing with an allied country's intelligence agency, it has been confirmed that one injured North Korean soldier has been captured," South Korea's National Intelligence Service said in a statement. The soldier was captured by the Ukrainian army, an intelligence source told AFP, adding that the location where he was seized was unknown. The first confirmation of the capture of a North Korean soldier came days after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Monday that nearly 3,000 North Korean soldiers had been "killed or wounded" so far. Also read: Russia’s anti-aircraft system shot down Azerbaijani jet over ‘mistaken identity’, US claims Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) also said Monday that more than 1,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded. The JCS had also said that Pyongyang is reportedly "preparing for the rotation or additional deployment of soldiers" and supplying "240mm rocket launchers and 170mm self-propelled artillery" to the Russian army. Seoul's military believes that North Korea was seeking to modernise its conventional warfare capabilities through combat experience gained in the Russia-Ukraine war. North Korean state media said Friday that Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a New Year's message to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, saying "the bilateral ties between our two countries have been elevated after our talks in June in Pyongyang". A landmark defence pact went into effect in December after the two sides exchanged ratification documents. Putin hailed the deal in June as a "breakthrough document". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Injured North Korean soldier fighting for Russia captured by Ukrainian forces: Report

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