Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will board the train from Poland to travel to Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Friday (Aug 23). Watch WION's Ground report; Inside visuals of Ukrainian train ahead of PM Modi's visit.

PM Modi’s Ukraine Visit: Inside visuals of Ukrainian train ahead of PM Modi's visit | Ground Report

Following Kyiv's incursion into the Kursk region inside Russia, the pentagon is trying to get a clear picture of Ukraine's longer term objectives in the region. The ultimate outcome of the incursion remains impossible to predict. Olena tregub, secretary-general, independent defence anti-corruption committee join us from Kyiv to discuss. Watch in for more details!

Ukraine's Kursk invasion: What are the objectives? | Live Discussion

Is Zelensky's ambition in Kursk leaving East Ukraine vulnerable to the Russian onslaught? Despite Ukraine's advancements into Russia's Kursk, Kyiv's forces are struggling to defend the strategic city of Pokrovsk as Russian troops steadily advance, now positioning themselves just 10 km (6 miles) from the city. Local Ukrainian authorities have described the situation as "extremely difficult." Zelensky has boldly stated that Ukraine's Kursk offensive exposes Russia's 'bluff' about its so-called 'Red Lines' in war. At the same time, Ukraine has urged its Western allies to lift restrictions on using NATO weapons in Russia. Tonight on #Gravitas, we ask who is truly 'bluffing' in this war - Putin or Zelensky?

Gravitas | Putin's Revenge: Russia marches into Pokrovsk, thwarts attacks in Kursk

The Ukrainian parliament on Tuesday (August 20) voted to ban the Ukrainian orthodox church, which has links to Russia. The move has been backed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who said that it&nbsp;will boost his country's independence.

"Today I want to note the work of the Verkhovna Rada. A law on our spiritual independence has been adopted," said Zelensky on social media. He added that the government would "continue to strengthen Ukraine and our society."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:133,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1822}">Russia slams the ban</h2>

Russia, however, has slammed the move as "unlawful".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:209,&quot;w&quot;:571,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1898}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-zelensky-wants-uks-storm-shadow-or-some-other-western-weapons-751595">What does Zelensky want? UK's Storm Shadow or some other western weapons</a>

In a statement posted on Telegram, the Russian Orthodox Church spokesman Vladimir Legoida said, "This is an unlawful act that is the grossest violation of the basic principles of freedom of conscience and human rights."

Nevertheless, Zelensky's office has welcomed the bill.

Andriy Yermak, Zelensky's chief of staff on Telegram, proclaimed that, "There will be no Moscow Church in Ukraine."

Labelling the bill as "historic",&nbsp;Ukrainian lawmaker Iryna Gerashchenko said "This is a matter of national security, not religion," she said in a post on Telegram.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:407,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2096}">Why ban a church?</h2>

As per AFP, Ukraine has for years tried to curb spiritual ties with bodies it considers aligned with Russia. The process was further accelerated by Moscow's full-blown invasion in 2022. The powerful Russian Orthodox Church reportedly endorsed the invasion.

Now, a majority of Ukrainian MPs approved the bill that outlaws Russia-linked religious organisations, including the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), which is linked to the Moscow Patriarchate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-its-forces-captured-key-hub-of-new-york-in-east-ukraine-751656">Russia claims its forces captured key hub of New York in east Ukraine</a>

The bill will now go to the president and will become law&nbsp;after his signature. However, as per the report, implementing it will take years. In spite of that, it caused dismay among the church's followers.

As per AFP, the Moscow-linked Ukrainian Orthodox Church officially broke ties with its Russian counterpart back in 2022. However, some Ukrainian leaders have accused the church of collaborating with Russian clergymen despite Moscow's invasion.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Ukrainian parliament on Tuesday (August 20) voted to ban the Ukrainian orthodox church, which has links to Russia. The move has been backed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who said that it will boost his country's independence.

The Ukrainian parliament on Tuesday (August 20) voted to ban the Ukrainian orthodox church, which has links to Russia. The move has been backed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who said that it will boost his country's independence. "Today I want to note the work of the Verkhovna Rada. A law on our spiritual independence has been adopted," said Zelensky on social media. He added that the government would "continue to strengthen Ukraine and our society." Russia slams the ban Russia, however, has slammed the move as "unlawful". Also read | What does Zelensky want? UK's Storm Shadow or some other western weapons In a statement posted on Telegram, the Russian Orthodox Church spokesman Vladimir Legoida said, "This is an unlawful act that is the grossest violation of the basic principles of freedom of conscience and human rights." Nevertheless, Zelensky's office has welcomed the bill. Andriy Yermak, Zelensky's chief of staff on Telegram, proclaimed that, "There will be no Moscow Church in Ukraine." Labelling the bill as "historic", Ukrainian lawmaker Iryna Gerashchenko said "This is a matter of national security, not religion," she said in a post on Telegram. Why ban a church? As per AFP, Ukraine has for years tried to curb spiritual ties with bodies it considers aligned with Russia. The process was further accelerated by Moscow's full-blown invasion in 2022. The powerful Russian Orthodox Church reportedly endorsed the invasion. Now, a majority of Ukrainian MPs approved the bill that outlaws Russia-linked religious organisations, including the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), which is linked to the Moscow Patriarchate. Also read | Russia claims its forces captured key hub of New York in east Ukraine The bill will now go to the president and will become law after his signature. However, as per the report, implementing it will take years. In spite of that, it caused dismay among the church's followers. As per AFP, the Moscow-linked Ukrainian Orthodox Church officially broke ties with its Russian counterpart back in 2022. However, some Ukrainian leaders have accused the church of collaborating with Russian clergymen despite Moscow's invasion. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine passes bill to ban Orthodox church with ties to Russia; Zelensky hails ban, Moscow slams it

Russia has ruled out any peace talks with Ukraine and this comes amid Kyiv raising pressure on the Kremlin by claiming fresh advances in its offensive into Russian territory. Watch in for more details.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Zelensky says Kursk attack shows Kremlin red lines are bluff

Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv says Russian forces pressing hard in Eastern Ukraine

Russia on Monday ruled out any peace talks with Ukraine despite Kyiv raising pressure on the Kremlin by claiming fresh advances in its offensive into Russian territory. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia rules out peace talks as Ukraine claims advances

Ukraine's audacious crossborder strikes on Russian territory have ignited a fresh chapter in the conflict, with Kyiv now openly seeking the deployment of long range missiles. Our next report explores why Kyiv is desperately trying to persuade London to allow it to use Storm Shadow cruise missiles. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war | Storm Shadow: A game-changer for Ukraine?

It's been less than 2 weeks into its stunning cross border incursion. Ukraine has destroyed a key bridge in Russia's Kursk region and struck a second one nearby on Sunday and the destruction of the first bridge that span the same river near the town of Glushkovo is expected to impede deliveries of supplies to Russian forces repelling Ukraine's incursion. Watch in for more details!

Ukraine's Incursion Into Russia: Does Kyiv intend to seek a foothold in the region?

Ukraine's successes in its two-week old incursion into Russia have not stopped Moscow's drive into the eastern part of the country. Officials in eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk have started evacuating the local residents as Russian forces close in. Moscow's troops are reportedly now less than six miles from the city limits.

Russia encircles Ukraine's Pokrovsk as Zelensky seeks 'buffer zone' in Kursk

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine destroys two key bridges in Russia's Kursk region

Moscow has shot down media reports of indirect talks with Kyiv in the wake of Ukraine's Kursk offensive. According to these reports, Ukraine and Russia were set to send delegates to Qatar to negotiate an agreement halting strikes on energy and power infrastructure on both warring sides. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow denies reports of indirect talks with Kyiv

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine plans to intensify attacks on Russian military assets

Russia introduced a state of emergency in the southern Russian city of Proletarsk on Monday (August 19) as firefighters battled a blaze sparked by a Ukrainian drone strike at a fuel storage facility.&nbsp;

For more than 24 hours, firefighters battled to extinguish the blaze at a fuel storage warehouse in the city of around 20,000 people. The fire at the oil facility started on Sunday morning and was seen raging for a second day, reports AFP.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:133,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2033}">Firefighters hurt</h2>

As per local governor Vasily Golubev, 18 firefighters were hurt while&nbsp;tackling the blaze that was still "continuing".

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Four of the firefighters had moderate-to-severe burns, said Golubev, adding that he had ordered more medics to go to the Proletarsk blaze site.

On Telegram, he stated, "Given the difficulty of the fire in the Proletarsk district, a high alert regime has been turned into a state of emergency."

He also said that the "forces and means" to put out the fire had been increased.

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<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:424,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2324}">Are locals at threat?</h2>

Citing local city administration, the Russian state media reported that there was no threat of the fire spreading to the residential areas. Authorities have urged the people to "not to give in to panic."&nbsp;

Kyiv has been attacking Russia's oil infrastructure for more than a year.&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called the strikes "fair" retaliation for Moscow's attacks on his country.&nbsp;

Recently, on August 6, Ukraine also launched a surprise incursion into the Kursk region.

On Monday, Zelensky said that his troops were meeting their objectives in Ukraine's offensive in the Kursk region.

"We are achieving our goals. This morning we have another replenishment of the (prisoner of war) exchange fund for our country."

The Kursk offensive is the biggest such attack by Ukraine since Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Kyiv officials, including Zelensky, have said that this offensive was aimed at creating a "buffer zone" on Russian territory to shield its own population from strikes.&nbsp;

Additionally, the war-torn nation has said that the Kursk incursion is an attempt to force Russia to negotiate on "fair terms".

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia introduced a state of emergency in the southern Russian city of Proletarsk on Monday (August 19) as firefighters battled a blaze sparked by a Ukrainian drone strike at a fuel storage facility.

Russia introduced a state of emergency in the southern Russian city of Proletarsk on Monday (August 19) as firefighters battled a blaze sparked by a Ukrainian drone strike at a fuel storage facility. For more than 24 hours, firefighters battled to extinguish the blaze at a fuel storage warehouse in the city of around 20,000 people. The fire at the oil facility started on Sunday morning and was seen raging for a second day, reports AFP. Firefighters hurt As per local governor Vasily Golubev, 18 firefighters were hurt while tackling the blaze that was still "continuing". Also read | Ukraine war: Zelensky mentions the aim of Kyiv's Kursk invasion Four of the firefighters had moderate-to-severe burns, said Golubev, adding that he had ordered more medics to go to the Proletarsk blaze site. On Telegram, he stated, "Given the difficulty of the fire in the Proletarsk district, a high alert regime has been turned into a state of emergency." He also said that the "forces and means" to put out the fire had been increased. Also read | Gaza records first polio case in 25 years amid raging state of war Are locals at threat? Citing local city administration, the Russian state media reported that there was no threat of the fire spreading to the residential areas. Authorities have urged the people to "not to give in to panic." Kyiv has been attacking Russia's oil infrastructure for more than a year. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called the strikes "fair" retaliation for Moscow's attacks on his country. Recently, on August 6, Ukraine also launched a surprise incursion into the Kursk region. On Monday, Zelensky said that his troops were meeting their objectives in Ukraine's offensive in the Kursk region. "We are achieving our goals. This morning we have another replenishment of the (prisoner of war) exchange fund for our country." The Kursk offensive is the biggest such attack by Ukraine since Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion in February 2022. Kyiv officials, including Zelensky, have said that this offensive was aimed at creating a "buffer zone" on Russian territory to shield its own population from strikes. Additionally, the war-torn nation has said that the Kursk incursion is an attempt to force Russia to negotiate on "fair terms". (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian drone sparks state of emergency in Russia's Proletarsk after lighting up oil facility

Ukraine's incursion into Russia's Kursk region has entered its 13 day and in the latest Ukraine has destroyed another strategic bridge on the Seym river. Watch to know more.

Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv blows up second bridge in Russia's Kursk region

After about a fortnight of Ukraine's incursion into Russia's Kursk region President Vladimir Zelensky has revealed the real reason for taking the bold move. Zelensky says Kyiv aims to create a buffer zone to prevent further attacks by Moscow across the border. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky urges West to allow use of shadow missiles inside Russia

Ukrainian air force destroyed another strategic bridge over the Seym River in Russia's Kursk region limiting the supply capacity of a Russian group opposing the Ukrainian advance. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine destroys another bridge in Russia's Kursk region | WION Originals

Ukraine said Friday its incursion into Russian territory was aimed at forcing Russia to negotiate on "fair" terms, as Moscow's troops announced new gains in eastern Ukraine. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine links Kursk incursion to ‘fair talks’

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine says Kursk incursion aimed at 'fair' talks with Russia

Amid ongoing offensive in Russia’s Kursk region, Ukrainian authorities have ordered evacuation in the eastern city of Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region. As Kyiv forces claim to have occupied around 1,150 sq km of Russian territories, Moscow&nbsp;is pressing ahead with its own offensive and making steady gains in Donetsk. Ukraine’s top military official in Pokrovsk urged people to leave their homes as Russian forces had advanced within 10 km of the city.

“Don’t delay,” the official said on Telegram. “The enemy ruthlessly hits critical infrastructure and residential neighbourhoods.”

Deepstate, a military analysis outlet with links to Ukraine’s defence ministry, reported Wednesday (Aug 14) that Russian forces were forcefully hitting the Ukrainian cities of Pokrovsk and Toretsk and occupied parts of Niu York.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine claims capturing 100 Russian soldiers in Kursk region

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Russian forces were “maintaining their relatively high offensive tempo in Donetsk region, demonstrating that the Russian military command continues to prioritise advances in eastern Ukraine,” the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War was quoted as saying by the Financial Times.

<h2>Why is Pokrovsk so significant for Ukraine?</h2>

Pokrovsk, located just 70 km northwest of Russian-held Donetsk city, is a key logistics hub for the war-torn country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwip27bq3vmHAxWokK8BHdB7G1wQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-strikes-russia-with-drones-says-it-is-advancing-deeper-750022" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-strikes-russia-with-drones-says-it-is-advancing-deeper-750022&amp;ved=2ahUKEwip27bq3vmHAxWokK8BHdB7G1wQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">Ukraine strikes Russia with drones, says it is advancing deeper</a>

The city sits on a key intersection that links the eastern front to the rest of the city and is used to provide supplies to the frontline soldiers.

<h2>Ukrainian offensive ‘will lead to negotiations’</h2>

Meanwhile, a top advisor to Ukrainian&nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky said Friday (Aug 16),&nbsp;that the purpose of the Kursk offensive was to force Russia to initiate peace negotiations.

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Incredible footage released by the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukrainian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukrainian</a> Ministry of Defence shows early hours of the successful offensive operation of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> Army in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kursk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kursk</a> Oblast of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> on August 6, 2024. <a href="https://t.co/yke5V3pryO">pic.twitter.com/yke5V3pryO</a>
— Babak Taghvaee - The Crisis Watch (@BabakTaghvaee1) <a href="https://twitter.com/BabakTaghvaee1/status/1824388759007137862?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"Ukraine is not interested in occupying Russian territories," said Mykhailo Podolyak in a statement on social media. "But if we are talking about potential negotiations – I emphasize potential – we will have to put [Russia] at the table opposite. On our own terms," he added.

Ukraine launched its surprise Kursk offensive on August 6 with targeted attacks in three border regions: Bryansk, Belgorod, and Kursk.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Amid ongoing offensive in Russia’s Kursk region, Ukrainian authorities have ordered evacuation in the eastern city of Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region. As Kyiv forces claim to have occupied around 1,150 sq km of Russian territories, Moscow is pressing ahead with its own offensive and making steady gains in Donetsk.

Amid ongoing offensive in Russia’s Kursk region, Ukrainian authorities have ordered evacuation in the eastern city of Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region. As Kyiv forces claim to have occupied around 1,150 sq km of Russian territories, Moscow is pressing ahead with its own offensive and making steady gains in Donetsk. Ukraine’s top military official in Pokrovsk urged people to leave their homes as Russian forces had advanced within 10 km of the city. “Don’t delay,” the official said on Telegram. “The enemy ruthlessly hits critical infrastructure and residential neighbourhoods.” Deepstate, a military analysis outlet with links to Ukraine’s defence ministry, reported Wednesday (Aug 14) that Russian forces were forcefully hitting the Ukrainian cities of Pokrovsk and Toretsk and occupied parts of Niu York. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine claims capturing 100 Russian soldiers in Kursk region × Russian forces were “maintaining their relatively high offensive tempo in Donetsk region, demonstrating that the Russian military command continues to prioritise advances in eastern Ukraine,” the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War was quoted as saying by the Financial Times. Why is Pokrovsk so significant for Ukraine? Pokrovsk, located just 70 km northwest of Russian-held Donetsk city, is a key logistics hub for the war-torn country. Also read: Ukraine strikes Russia with drones, says it is advancing deeper The city sits on a key intersection that links the eastern front to the rest of the city and is used to provide supplies to the frontline soldiers. Ukrainian offensive ‘will lead to negotiations’ Meanwhile, a top advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Friday (Aug 16), that the purpose of the Kursk offensive was to force Russia to initiate peace negotiations. Incredible footage released by the #Ukrainian Ministry of Defence shows early hours of the successful offensive operation of the #Ukraine Army in #Kursk Oblast of #Russia on August 6, 2024. pic.twitter.com/yke5V3pryO — Babak Taghvaee - The Crisis Watch (@BabakTaghvaee1) August 16, 2024 × "Ukraine is not interested in occupying Russian territories," said Mykhailo Podolyak in a statement on social media. "But if we are talking about potential negotiations – I emphasize potential – we will have to put [Russia] at the table opposite. On our own terms," he added. Ukraine launched its surprise Kursk offensive on August 6 with targeted attacks in three border regions: Bryansk, Belgorod, and Kursk. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russia launches its own offensive after Kursk attack, forces evacuation in Ukraine’s Pokrovsk

Russia is on the search for trench diggers. But Why? Scores of job ads for trench diggers and construction workers in the Kursk region have appeared online. Reportedly, these diggers will build defences in the Kursk because of Ukraine’s surprise invasion. As per sources, at least 30 listings for trench diggers appeared on the classifieds website Avito.

Russia hiring trench diggers after Kursk invasion

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy hailed Ukraine's "good advance" in Russia's Kursk region on Wednesday (August 14), saying Kyiv was achieving its strategic goal in the operation. In his nightly address published on Telegram, Zelenskiy appealed to partners to allow long-range strikes on targets inside Russia.

Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky hails advance in Kursk region, says Kyiv achieving strategic goal

President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday said Ukraine's army was advancing in the Russian region of Kursk where it launched a surprise offensive last week.

Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky says, 'Troops moving further in Russia's Kursk region' | Gravitas

A Russian court on Thursday (August 15) sentenced dual US-Russian citizen Ksenia Karelina to 12 years in prison. She was found guilty of "high treason" for donating around $50 to a pro-Ukraine charity.&nbsp;

The case has drawn significant criticism, with the White House condemning the ruling as "vindictive cruelty."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:133,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1883}">Who is Karelina?</h2>

Ksenia Karelina is a 32-year-old ballet dancer and spa worker from Los Angeles, United States. She was detained in January while visiting her family in Yekaterinburg, a Russian city in the Urals.&nbsp;

The Sverdlovsk Regional Court, where her trial took place, stated that Karelina had been found "guilty of high treason and sentenced her to 12 years' imprisonment in a general regime colony".

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She transferred $51.80 to the New York-based charity "Razom for Ukraine" on February 24, 2022, the day Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

According to the court, the funds were allegedly "used to purchase tactical medical supplies, equipment, weapons and ammunition for the Ukrainian armed forces."

Karelina pleaded guilty to the charges last week, reported state media.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:454,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2204}">White House expresses outrage</h2>

The court's decision has been met with outrage from both her supporters and international observers.&nbsp;The White House was quick to denounce the sentence calling it "nothing less than just vindictive cruelty".

National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby criticised the severity of the punishment and said "We're talking about 50 bucks to try to alleviate the suffering of the people of Ukraine, and to call that treason is just absolutely ludicrous."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-leader-mahmud-abbas-vows-to-visit-gaza-declares-our-life-is-not-more-worthy-than-a-childs-750488">Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas vows to visit Gaza, says ‘our life is not more worthy’ than a child’s</a>

Karelina's case is the latest in a series of high-profile incidents involving US citizens detained in Russia on charges of espionage or treason.&nbsp;

Just two weeks earlier, Russia engaged in a major prisoner swap with the West, which resulted in the release of US journalist Evan Gershkovich, former Marine Paul Whelan, and 14 others. However, Karelina was not included in this exchange.

Karelina's boyfriend, Christopher van Heerden, expressed his frustration and sorrow over the verdict. "She’s facing 12 years in prison for a $51 donation that she made as an American citizen on American soil," he said, urging the US State Department to declare her "wrongfully detained" and prioritise her release.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Russian court on Thursday (August 15) sentenced dual US-Russian citizen Ksenia Karelina to 12 years in prison. She was found guilty of "high treason" for donating around $50 to a pro-Ukraine charity.

A Russian court on Thursday (August 15) sentenced dual US-Russian citizen Ksenia Karelina to 12 years in prison. She was found guilty of "high treason" for donating around $50 to a pro-Ukraine charity. The case has drawn significant criticism, with the White House condemning the ruling as "vindictive cruelty." Who is Karelina? Ksenia Karelina is a 32-year-old ballet dancer and spa worker from Los Angeles, United States. She was detained in January while visiting her family in Yekaterinburg, a Russian city in the Urals. The Sverdlovsk Regional Court, where her trial took place, stated that Karelina had been found "guilty of high treason and sentenced her to 12 years' imprisonment in a general regime colony". Also read | Backing down from retaliating against Israel would invite ‘divine wrath’: Iran supreme leader Khamenei She transferred $51.80 to the New York-based charity "Razom for Ukraine" on February 24, 2022, the day Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. According to the court, the funds were allegedly "used to purchase tactical medical supplies, equipment, weapons and ammunition for the Ukrainian armed forces." Karelina pleaded guilty to the charges last week, reported state media. White House expresses outrage The court's decision has been met with outrage from both her supporters and international observers. The White House was quick to denounce the sentence calling it "nothing less than just vindictive cruelty". National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby criticised the severity of the punishment and said "We're talking about 50 bucks to try to alleviate the suffering of the people of Ukraine, and to call that treason is just absolutely ludicrous." Also read | Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas vows to visit Gaza, says ‘our life is not more worthy’ than a child’s Karelina's case is the latest in a series of high-profile incidents involving US citizens detained in Russia on charges of espionage or treason. Just two weeks earlier, Russia engaged in a major prisoner swap with the West, which resulted in the release of US journalist Evan Gershkovich, former Marine Paul Whelan, and 14 others. However, Karelina was not included in this exchange. Karelina's boyfriend, Christopher van Heerden, expressed his frustration and sorrow over the verdict. "She’s facing 12 years in prison for a $51 donation that she made as an American citizen on American soil," he said, urging the US State Department to declare her "wrongfully detained" and prioritise her release. (With inputs from agencies)

'High treason': Who is Ksenia Karelina? US woman Russia sentenced to 12yrs for donating $51 to Ukraine charity

#Gravitas | Ukrainian drones reportedly struck four Russian airfields, the largest such attack since the war began. This move comes as Ukrainian forces push deeper into Russian territory, following a cross-border incursion earlier this month that caught the Kremlin completely by surprise.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine's biggest drone attack against Russia | Gravitas

Ukraine on&nbsp;Wednesday (Aug 14) said that its forces had advanced&nbsp;deeper into Russia’s Kursk region as Moscow faces the biggest incursion since World War 2. The offensive began on August 6 and has now affected at least three regions of the country, posing a major security challenge for strongman President Vladimir Putin.

“We continue to advance further in the Kursk region,” Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on Telegram, “from one to two kilometres in various areas since the start of the day. And more than 100 Russian prisoners of war in the same period.”

<h2>Russia’s National Guard beefs up security</h2>

In response, Russia’s National Guard beefed up security measures in the area, especially near the Kursk nuclear power plant, located just 35 kilometres&nbsp;from the fighting.

To deter the surprise&nbsp;attack, Russia has now begun pulling reserve forces from Ukraine and Crimea to focus on the embattled Russian territories, one Ukrainian commander was quoted as saying by CNN. Russian soldiers are being pulled from Zaporizhzhia, Crimea, and Kharkiv, claimed the commander.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj2j-P94fSHAxWDTGwGHSBOK0cQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-strikes-russia-with-drones-says-it-is-advancing-deeper-750022" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-strikes-russia-with-drones-says-it-is-advancing-deeper-750022&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj2j-P94fSHAxWDTGwGHSBOK0cQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">Ukraine strikes Russia with drones, says it is advancing deeper</a>

“(The Russians) are now trying to stop our advance; they have pulled in reserves, which has benefited our defense forces in other areas, because it has become easier to work there,” the Ukrainian&nbsp;commander said.

WION can’t independently verify these claims.

<h2>Kyiv creating security zone in Russia</h2>

Earlier, Kyiv said it was carving out a "security zone" on Russian soil in order to protect Ukrainian border regions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj2j-P94fSHAxWDTGwGHSBOK0cQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-vows-to-expel-enemy-from-russian-territory-as-ukraine-claims-control-of-1000-sq-km-749632" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-vows-to-expel-enemy-from-russian-territory-as-ukraine-claims-control-of-1000-sq-km-749632&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj2j-P94fSHAxWDTGwGHSBOK0cQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Putin vows to expel enemy from Russian territory as Ukraine claims control of 1,000 sq. km</a>

Ukrainian Minister for Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories Iryna Vereshchuk on&nbsp;Wednesday said, “The Ukrainian Defense Forces are creating a security zone on the territory of the Russian Federation adjacent to the territory of Ukraine.”

<h2>India issues advisory</h2>

The Indian embassy in Moscow on Wednesday issued an advisory asking citizens to avoid travelling to three affected regions: Bryansk, Belgorod and Kursk.

The embassy has also provided a telephone number and an email address for any person requiring assistance.

Earlier, Belgorod Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said the situation on the ground was “extremely difficult and tense” as the attacks destroyed homes and caused civilian casualties.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine on Wednesday (Aug 14) said that its forces had advanced deeper into Russia’s Kursk region as Moscow faces the biggest incursion since World War 2. The offensive began on August 6 and has now affected at least three regions of the country, posing a major security challenge for strongman President Vladimir Putin.

Ukraine on Wednesday (Aug 14) said that its forces had advanced deeper into Russia’s Kursk region as Moscow faces the biggest incursion since World War 2. The offensive began on August 6 and has now affected at least three regions of the country, posing a major security challenge for strongman President Vladimir Putin. “We continue to advance further in the Kursk region,” Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on Telegram, “from one to two kilometres in various areas since the start of the day. And more than 100 Russian prisoners of war in the same period.” Russia’s National Guard beefs up security In response, Russia’s National Guard beefed up security measures in the area, especially near the Kursk nuclear power plant, located just 35 kilometres from the fighting. To deter the surprise attack, Russia has now begun pulling reserve forces from Ukraine and Crimea to focus on the embattled Russian territories, one Ukrainian commander was quoted as saying by CNN. Russian soldiers are being pulled from Zaporizhzhia, Crimea, and Kharkiv, claimed the commander. Also read: Ukraine strikes Russia with drones, says it is advancing deeper “(The Russians) are now trying to stop our advance; they have pulled in reserves, which has benefited our defense forces in other areas, because it has become easier to work there,” the Ukrainian commander said. WION can’t independently verify these claims. Kyiv creating security zone in Russia Earlier, Kyiv said it was carving out a "security zone" on Russian soil in order to protect Ukrainian border regions. Also read: Putin vows to expel enemy from Russian territory as Ukraine claims control of 1,000 sq. km Ukrainian Minister for Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories Iryna Vereshchuk on Wednesday said, “The Ukrainian Defense Forces are creating a security zone on the territory of the Russian Federation adjacent to the territory of Ukraine.” India issues advisory The Indian embassy in Moscow on Wednesday issued an advisory asking citizens to avoid travelling to three affected regions: Bryansk, Belgorod and Kursk. The embassy has also provided a telephone number and an email address for any person requiring assistance. Earlier, Belgorod Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said the situation on the ground was “extremely difficult and tense” as the attacks destroyed homes and caused civilian casualties. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine forces advance 2 km inside Russia’s Kursk, claims Zelensky; India issues advisory

President Vladimir Putin appointed his aide and former bodyguard Alexei Dyumin to oversee Russia’s military response to the Ukrainian offensive in the Kursk region. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin's former security guard Dyumin tasked to 'sort Kursk out'

The Russian Defence Ministry has announced that its forces have prevented Kyiv's troops from expanding a week-long invasion into Russia's Kursk area, while a Ukrainian Foreign Ministry official has stated that Kyiv has no intention of occupying Russian territory during the significant operation. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Who is Alexander Dyumin? Rising star of Putin's entourage

The Russian Defence Ministry has announced that its forces have prevented Kyiv's troops from expanding a week-long invasion into Russia's Kursk area, while a Ukrainian Foreign Ministry official has stated that Kyiv has no intention of occupying Russian territory during the significant operation.

Russia-Ukraine war: Putin appoints Alexander Dyumin in charge of Kursk defence

#Gravitas | In the early hours of Sunday, Kyiv once again found itself under a barrage of Russian missiles and drones. As per reports, the attack killed two people and injured three, including a 12-year-old boy. Russia's strike wasn't limited to Kyiv it was part of a broader, coordinated offensive that saw 57 drones unleashed across Ukraine targeting 11 regions. Gravitas tells you more!

Russia's revenge: Kyiv pays the price for Kursk | Gravitas

#Gravitas | On Tuesday, Russian foreign intelligence services accused Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky of taking “insane” steps that threaten to escalate the war far beyond his country. President Vladimir Putin has promised Ukraine a "worthy response" after the war-battered country claimed to have seized 1,000 sq km of Russian territory in Kursk. But how long will Ukraine be able to celebrate this win? What will Russia's revenge look like? Just how violent will a Russian response be?

Russia-Ukraine war: How harsh will Russia's retribution be after Ukraine's Kursk offensive? Gravitas

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