Top Biden administration officials spent last weekend in Europe trying to soothe jitters over the prospect of U.S. military aid to Ukraine ending, assuring counterparts from Paris, Berlin and Kyiv as the war enters its third year that Washington will somehow come through.

Russia-Ukraine war: As war with Russia enters third year, US aid to Ukraine hangs in the balance

On the frontlines of Ukraine, the snow is slowly melting but the battle is getting intense. Long faces, hunkered in the trenches, Ukrainian troops are growing weary as the war completes its second grim anniversary. The initial shock and disbelief have faded, replaced by a deep-seated weariness and the harsh realities of a protracted conflict.

Russia-Ukraine war: As the war enters it's third year, can Ukraine sustain the fight against Russia?

The United Nations reports that the fighting has resulted in over 10,000 civilian deaths and close to 20,000 injuries. Reconstruction will probably cost hundreds of billions of dollars.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine lives through second year of war with extreme grief and suffering

Heads of the Group of Seven major democracies on Saturday pledged to stand by war-weary Ukraine, and Western leaders traveled to Kyiv to show solidarity on the second anniversary of Russia's invasion, with no end in the sight to the fighting. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war: EU President says, 'More than ever, we stand firmly by Ukraine'

<p>Protesters gathered across major European cities on Saturday (Feb 24) to express solidarity with Ukraine, marking the second anniversary of the beginning of the Russian offensive. Amid mounting concerns over Kyiv's ability to resist an emboldened Russia, demonstrators in Berlin, London, Paris, and other cities waved the blue and yellow Ukrainian flag, and called for enhanced&nbsp;Western support in Ukraine's war effort against the Russian offensive.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-enters-third-year-as-putin-defies-wests-support-for-zelensky-693480">Russia-Ukraine war enters third year as Putin defies West’s support for Zelensky</a></strong></p>

<p>The conflict, launched&nbsp;by Russian forces on February 24, 2022, marked the biggest return of conflict to Europe since the Second World War. Fears of diminishing support from Ukraine's allies prompted calls for accelerated arms deliveries at a protest in Berlin, where thousands gathered at the iconic Brandenburg Gate.</p>

<p>Berlin mayor Kai Wegner while addressing the crowd, decried Putin's "brutal war of aggression" and called for the delivery of long-range Taurus missiles, a request the German government has so far resisted due to concerns about potential strikes inside Russia.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Western leaders offer support to Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>In London, thousands marched to Trafalgar Square, displaying banners with messages such as "world supports Ukraine" and "Russia is a terrorist state." Demonstrators voiced frustration over what they perceived as insufficient weaponry supplied by the West.</p>

<p>Protests also reverberated across France, with thousands in central Paris chanting slogans like "Putin murderer" and "Russia out of Ukraine."</p>

<p>Warsaw, the capital of Poland and a crucial ally to Ukraine, saw over 1,000 protesters gather in front of the Russian embassy, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Demonstrators in Warsaw displayed crosses bearing the names of war victims and models of buildings destroyed in Russian bombings.</p>

<p>Similar rallies unfolded in various European cities, including Dublin, Athens, Stockholm, and Milan.</p>

<h2><strong>Most Europeans feel Ukraine can no longer withstand Moscow</strong></h2>

<p>Despite the widespread support on Saturday (Feb 24), a recent survey indicates rising anxiety among Europeans about Ukraine's ability to withstand Moscow.</p>

<p>Only 10 per cent of respondents across 12 EU countries believe Ukraine can triumph on the battlefield, with 20 per cent believing Russia could win, and 37 per cent anticipating a compromise settlement in the ongoing conflict.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Protesters gathered across major European cities on Saturday (Feb 24) to express solidarity with Ukraine, marking the second anniversary of the beginning of the Russian offensive.

Protesters gathered across major European cities on Saturday (Feb 24) to express solidarity with Ukraine, marking the second anniversary of the beginning of the Russian offensive. Amid mounting concerns over Kyiv's ability to resist an emboldened Russia, demonstrators in Berlin, London, Paris, and other cities waved the blue and yellow Ukrainian flag, and called for enhanced Western support in Ukraine's war effort against the Russian offensive. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war enters third year as Putin defies West’s support for Zelensky The conflict, launched by Russian forces on February 24, 2022, marked the biggest return of conflict to Europe since the Second World War. Fears of diminishing support from Ukraine's allies prompted calls for accelerated arms deliveries at a protest in Berlin, where thousands gathered at the iconic Brandenburg Gate. Berlin mayor Kai Wegner while addressing the crowd, decried Putin's "brutal war of aggression" and called for the delivery of long-range Taurus missiles, a request the German government has so far resisted due to concerns about potential strikes inside Russia. Also watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Western leaders offer support to Ukraine × In London, thousands marched to Trafalgar Square, displaying banners with messages such as "world supports Ukraine" and "Russia is a terrorist state." Demonstrators voiced frustration over what they perceived as insufficient weaponry supplied by the West. Protests also reverberated across France, with thousands in central Paris chanting slogans like "Putin murderer" and "Russia out of Ukraine." Warsaw, the capital of Poland and a crucial ally to Ukraine, saw over 1,000 protesters gather in front of the Russian embassy, news agency AFP reported. Demonstrators in Warsaw displayed crosses bearing the names of war victims and models of buildings destroyed in Russian bombings. Similar rallies unfolded in various European cities, including Dublin, Athens, Stockholm, and Milan. Most Europeans feel Ukraine can no longer withstand Moscow Despite the widespread support on Saturday (Feb 24), a recent survey indicates rising anxiety among Europeans about Ukraine's ability to withstand Moscow. Only 10 per cent of respondents across 12 EU countries believe Ukraine can triumph on the battlefield, with 20 per cent believing Russia could win, and 37 per cent anticipating a compromise settlement in the ongoing conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Europeans rally to support Ukraine as war with Russia enters third year

<p>The second anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war saw a major Russian steel factory hit by Ukrainian drones on Saturday (Feb 24). The attack happened overnight, causing a large fire. The attack, which took place in the city of Lipetsk, some 400 km (250 miles) north of the Ukrainian border, was&nbsp;confirmed by the governor of Russia's Lipetsk region,</p>

<p>The said Russian steel factory is responsible for 18 per cent of the country’s total output.</p>

<p>The governor said a fire was caused by a drone strike which was extinguished and there were no causalities. The plant is reportedly operated by Russian steelmaker Novolipetsk (NLMK).</p>

<p>"There is no significant impact on the plant's operations," the governor added on Saturday night.</p>

<p>Ukrainian forces were quoted as saying by Reuters that the attack was carried out by GUR military intelligence and the SBU security service. They also claimed that the fire caused the full evacuation of the plant, reflecting the severity of the attack.</p>

<p>"Raw materials from this enterprise are used to manufacture Russian missiles, artillery, and drones. Therefore, it is a legitimate goal for Ukraine," the source said, without specifying the location of the plant.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Western leaders arrive in Ukraine to pledge moral support</strong></p>

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<p>Some videos of the incident also appeared on social media, showing an explosion, with orange flames illuminating the nighttime sky.</p>

<p>NLMK said the fire broke out at 1:40 am local time and was brought under control soon after.</p>

<p>Ukrainian drone strikes well within Russian territories have become common, targeting Russian naval assets as well as key oil facilities and factories.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw3fgMysDEco5ufZ7YFGM84f" data-ved="2ahUKEwif3pus0cSEAxVMklYBHXWfB80QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-makes-crucial-advances-in-ukraine-693532" jsname="YKoRaf">Russia-Ukraine war: Russia makes crucial advances in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>Despite Ukrainian sources having provided details of the attack to the media, Kyiv has refrained from taking responsibility of&nbsp;the strikes.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Russia said several Ukrainian drones were downed over the Lipetsk, Kursk and Tula regions overnight.</p>

<p>Despite Ukrainian claims, NLMK maintains the steel factory doesn’t contribute to Moscow’s war.</p>

<p>NLMK said in October 2022 that its Russian operations were not capable of producing military-grade heavy steel and did not supply goods to the military.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The second anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war saw a major Russian steel factory hit by Ukrainian drones on Saturday (Feb 24). The attack happened overnight, causing a large fire.

The second anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war saw a major Russian steel factory hit by Ukrainian drones on Saturday (Feb 24). The attack happened overnight, causing a large fire. The attack, which took place in the city of Lipetsk, some 400 km (250 miles) north of the Ukrainian border, was confirmed by the governor of Russia's Lipetsk region, The said Russian steel factory is responsible for 18 per cent of the country’s total output. The governor said a fire was caused by a drone strike which was extinguished and there were no causalities. The plant is reportedly operated by Russian steelmaker Novolipetsk (NLMK). "There is no significant impact on the plant's operations," the governor added on Saturday night. Ukrainian forces were quoted as saying by Reuters that the attack was carried out by GUR military intelligence and the SBU security service. They also claimed that the fire caused the full evacuation of the plant, reflecting the severity of the attack. "Raw materials from this enterprise are used to manufacture Russian missiles, artillery, and drones. Therefore, it is a legitimate goal for Ukraine," the source said, without specifying the location of the plant. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: Western leaders arrive in Ukraine to pledge moral support × Some videos of the incident also appeared on social media, showing an explosion, with orange flames illuminating the nighttime sky. NLMK said the fire broke out at 1:40 am local time and was brought under control soon after. Ukrainian drone strikes well within Russian territories have become common, targeting Russian naval assets as well as key oil facilities and factories. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Russia makes crucial advances in Ukraine Despite Ukrainian sources having provided details of the attack to the media, Kyiv has refrained from taking responsibility of the strikes. Meanwhile, Russia said several Ukrainian drones were downed over the Lipetsk, Kursk and Tula regions overnight. Despite Ukrainian claims, NLMK maintains the steel factory doesn’t contribute to Moscow’s war. NLMK said in October 2022 that its Russian operations were not capable of producing military-grade heavy steel and did not supply goods to the military. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian drone strikes cause large fire at Russian steel plant on second anniversary of war

According to the inspector general of the Pentagon, their criminal investigators have initiated over 50 probes concerning help sent to Ukraine, some of which involve contractors, but they have not yet confirmed any of the accusations.

Pentagon in US has opened over 50 criminal probes on US aid to Ukraine

Ukraine's military on Friday destroyed a Russian A-50 surveillance aircraft, Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk said, the second time in a little more than a month that Ukraine has reported downing the sophisticated plane.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine military destroys Russian surveillance plane A-50, claims commander

<p>Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister Iryna Borovets visited Indian capital New Delhi for Raisina Dialogue 2024. On the sidelines, she interacted with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibbal and spoke on many topics ranging from India-Ukraine ties to Ukraine war and more.</p>

<p>During the interaction, she expressed hope that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi attends the peace summit due to be held in Switzerland this year. Switzerland is holding the summit to hold discussion on the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.</p>

<p>While being mindful of the fact that general elections are due in India in coming months, she said the Ukrainian side was hopeful of Indian participation.</p>

<p>Thanking India for the humanitarian aid it had sent to Ukraine so far, Borovets said that India can play an important part in stopping the hostilities.</p>

<p>Mentioning PM Modi's words, “This is not an era of war,” Borovets said Ukraine agreed with PM Modi but the other side (Russia) was not paying heed to the message.</p>

<h2><strong>India-Ukraine ties</strong></h2>

<p>The deputy foreign minister expressed happiness on the state of India-Ukraine ties. Mentioning that both sides have been in contact with each other on various international forums Borovets underlined that a Ukrainian delegation attended 'Vibrant Gujarat Summit' for the first time this year. The minister said that India and Ukraine could further boost the bilateral ties.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Ukraine's Deputy FM, Iryana Borovets talks about the evolution of Ukraine's relationship with India</strong></p>

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<p>Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba is likely to visit India in near future. Borovets said that she was pleased to observe that the Indian side was looking forward to Kuleba's visit. She mentioned that Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar conveyed this sentiment to her on Friday.</p>

<p>On defence co-operation between India and Ukraine, the minister opined that both countries should build upon the robust tradition of working together since the Soviet times. She also invited India to invest in Ukraine after war for its recovery.</p>

<h2><strong>On Indian students in Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Mentioning that hundreds of Indian students are still studying in India, the deputy foreign minister invited others back to Ukraine, especially those Indian students who had to leave their studies and return to India after war broke out.</p>

<p>Borovets said that out of more than 20,000 students studying in Ukraine before war, 500 are still in the country. She underlined that western part of her country was relatively safe.</p>

<h2><strong>Situation in war against Russia</strong></h2>

<p>Although she admitted that situation with respect to the ongoing war was difficult and there was shortage of arms, ammunition, air defence systems and more, Ukrainian soldiers were bravely fighting on the front lines.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-announces-more-than-500-sanctions-targeting-russian-prez-vladimir-putins-war-machine-693182">US announces 500+ sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression'</a></strong></p>

<p>Some countries have offered to provide ammunitions for free while others were selling it to Ukraine. She said that military equipment was being transferred to the front lines and when adequately equipped, the Ukrainian army will be better prepared to fight.</p>

<p>When asked whether Israel-Hamas war had taken the focus away from Ukraine war, deputy foreign minister said no and maintained the global commitment for Ukraine is very much there.</p>

<p>"Solidarity around Ukraine is very solid," she said.</p>


Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister Iryna Borovets visited Indian capital New Delhi for Raisina Dialogue 2024. On the sidelines, she interacted with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibbal and spoke on many topics ranging from India-Ukraine ties to Ukraine war and more.

Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister Iryna Borovets visited Indian capital New Delhi for Raisina Dialogue 2024. On the sidelines, she interacted with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibbal and spoke on many topics ranging from India-Ukraine ties to Ukraine war and more. During the interaction, she expressed hope that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi attends the peace summit due to be held in Switzerland this year. Switzerland is holding the summit to hold discussion on the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. While being mindful of the fact that general elections are due in India in coming months, she said the Ukrainian side was hopeful of Indian participation. Thanking India for the humanitarian aid it had sent to Ukraine so far, Borovets said that India can play an important part in stopping the hostilities. Mentioning PM Modi's words, “This is not an era of war,” Borovets said Ukraine agreed with PM Modi but the other side (Russia) was not paying heed to the message. India-Ukraine ties The deputy foreign minister expressed happiness on the state of India-Ukraine ties. Mentioning that both sides have been in contact with each other on various international forums Borovets underlined that a Ukrainian delegation attended 'Vibrant Gujarat Summit' for the first time this year. The minister said that India and Ukraine could further boost the bilateral ties. Watch | Ukraine's Deputy FM, Iryana Borovets talks about the evolution of Ukraine's relationship with India × Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba is likely to visit India in near future. Borovets said that she was pleased to observe that the Indian side was looking forward to Kuleba's visit. She mentioned that Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar conveyed this sentiment to her on Friday. On defence co-operation between India and Ukraine, the minister opined that both countries should build upon the robust tradition of working together since the Soviet times. She also invited India to invest in Ukraine after war for its recovery. On Indian students in Ukraine Mentioning that hundreds of Indian students are still studying in India, the deputy foreign minister invited others back to Ukraine, especially those Indian students who had to leave their studies and return to India after war broke out. Borovets said that out of more than 20,000 students studying in Ukraine before war, 500 are still in the country. She underlined that western part of her country was relatively safe. Situation in war against Russia Although she admitted that situation with respect to the ongoing war was difficult and there was shortage of arms, ammunition, air defence systems and more, Ukrainian soldiers were bravely fighting on the front lines. Also Read | US announces 500+ sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression' Some countries have offered to provide ammunitions for free while others were selling it to Ukraine. She said that military equipment was being transferred to the front lines and when adequately equipped, the Ukrainian army will be better prepared to fight. When asked whether Israel-Hamas war had taken the focus away from Ukraine war, deputy foreign minister said no and maintained the global commitment for Ukraine is very much there. "Solidarity around Ukraine is very solid," she said.

Exclusive: Hopeful that PM Modi will attend Ukraine peace summit, says Ukrainian minister Iryna Borovets

India has an extensive bilateral relationship with Ukraine, spanning all spheres of cooperation. India was one of the first countries to recognize Ukraine. The government of India recognized the Republic of Ukraine as a sovereign country in December 1991 and established diplomatic relations in January 1992. Ukraine's Deputy FM, Iryana Borovets talks about the evolution of Ukraine's relationship with India and more.

Ukraine's Deputy FM, Iryana Borovets talks to WION on 2nd anniversary of Russia-Ukraine war

<p>Six men at a remote Arctic prison in Russia have been sanctioned by the US and the UK over Alexei Navalny's death. Alas, they will have to forego their dreams of visiting the castles of the UK or the casinos of Las Vegas. Today Russia is the world's most sanctioned country. The Western projections of a Russian economic meltdown at the beginning of the war in Ukraine were akin to a dash of Dostoevskian despair. The Russian Ruble has staged a remarkable comeback, fuelled by soaring energy prices and a resourcefulness that would make Leo Tolstoy's Natasha Rostova proud.</p>

<p>The West has slapped Russian individuals and entities with over 18,700 sanctions. But has this economic blockade achieved its intended goals? Led by the US and backed by its few Western allies, these sanctions have tried to castigate, chastise, chasten, and frighten Moscow.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-enters-third-year-as-putin-defies-wests-support-for-zelensky-693480">Russia-Ukraine war enters third year as Putin defies West's support for Zelensky</a></strong></p>

<p>While the West congratulates itself on its supposed economic warfare victory, the reality is that Russia is adapting, navigating, and continuing to pursue its objectives. It's time for the West to wake up and smell the borscht - the current approach simply isn't working.<img alt="Russia Ukraine war " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c40e2ce5-2200-4875-863e-03357a848f60" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/RussiaUkraineWar.png" /></p>

<p>Yes, the sanctions are unprecedented. Russia's foreign currency reserves worth $350 billion, which is about half its total reserves have been frozen. Russia has been excluded from SWIFT, an international payment system used by thousands of financial institutions. About 70 per cent of the assets of Russian banks were also frozen, the EU says, and some were excluded from Swift, a high-speed messaging service for financial institutions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the numbers tell a different tale. According to the International Monetary Fund, in the first year of the war, Russia's economy shrank by 2.1 per cent, only to grow by 2.2 per cent in 2023 and is predicted to grow by 1.1 per cent in 2024.</p>

<p>When the West slammed its door on Putin, he ventured East. Russia has been steadily building closer economic ties with China and other Asian countries. These new partnerships are helping to mitigate the impact of Western sanctions.</p>

<p>The people of Ukraine, caught in the crossfire of this geopolitical chess game, are the ones truly suffering. The losses on the Russian side are also huge, the actual figures remain hidden in the fog of war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the Russia-Ukraine war enters its third year, Kyiv is looking at a bleak future due to the US Congress blocking a vital $60 billion aid package. This has come on top of delays in promised European deliveries. The potential re-election of Donald Trump in the US adds another layer of complexity.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Two years of Russia-Ukraine war, what is next?</strong></p>

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<p>In the immediate future, the conflict will be determined not just on the battlefield but also in Western capitals and other places far from the front lines. Western leaders have had less time and political energy to devote to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Leaders in the Global South have accused the West of double standards over its attitudes to the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, making it more difficult for Kyiv and its allies to rally support. Putin has been turned into a pariah, and Russia pushed into far greater isolation by the West, but perhaps it's time to find ways and means to open channels of dialogue to end the long grinding war.</p>

<p><em><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></em></p>


Six men at a remote Arctic prison in Russia have been sanctioned by the US and the UK over Alexei Navalny's death. Alas, they will have to forego their dreams of visiting the castles of the UK or the casinos of Las Vegas.

Six men at a remote Arctic prison in Russia have been sanctioned by the US and the UK over Alexei Navalny's death. Alas, they will have to forego their dreams of visiting the castles of the UK or the casinos of Las Vegas. Today Russia is the world's most sanctioned country. The Western projections of a Russian economic meltdown at the beginning of the war in Ukraine were akin to a dash of Dostoevskian despair. The Russian Ruble has staged a remarkable comeback, fuelled by soaring energy prices and a resourcefulness that would make Leo Tolstoy's Natasha Rostova proud. The West has slapped Russian individuals and entities with over 18,700 sanctions. But has this economic blockade achieved its intended goals? Led by the US and backed by its few Western allies, these sanctions have tried to castigate, chastise, chasten, and frighten Moscow. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war enters third year as Putin defies West's support for Zelensky While the West congratulates itself on its supposed economic warfare victory, the reality is that Russia is adapting, navigating, and continuing to pursue its objectives. It's time for the West to wake up and smell the borscht - the current approach simply isn't working. Yes, the sanctions are unprecedented. Russia's foreign currency reserves worth $350 billion, which is about half its total reserves have been frozen. Russia has been excluded from SWIFT, an international payment system used by thousands of financial institutions. About 70 per cent of the assets of Russian banks were also frozen, the EU says, and some were excluded from Swift, a high-speed messaging service for financial institutions. But the numbers tell a different tale. According to the International Monetary Fund, in the first year of the war, Russia's economy shrank by 2.1 per cent, only to grow by 2.2 per cent in 2023 and is predicted to grow by 1.1 per cent in 2024. When the West slammed its door on Putin, he ventured East. Russia has been steadily building closer economic ties with China and other Asian countries. These new partnerships are helping to mitigate the impact of Western sanctions. The people of Ukraine, caught in the crossfire of this geopolitical chess game, are the ones truly suffering. The losses on the Russian side are also huge, the actual figures remain hidden in the fog of war. As the Russia-Ukraine war enters its third year, Kyiv is looking at a bleak future due to the US Congress blocking a vital $60 billion aid package. This has come on top of delays in promised European deliveries. The potential re-election of Donald Trump in the US adds another layer of complexity. Also watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Two years of Russia-Ukraine war, what is next? × In the immediate future, the conflict will be determined not just on the battlefield but also in Western capitals and other places far from the front lines. Western leaders have had less time and political energy to devote to Ukraine. Leaders in the Global South have accused the West of double standards over its attitudes to the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, making it more difficult for Kyiv and its allies to rally support. Putin has been turned into a pariah, and Russia pushed into far greater isolation by the West, but perhaps it's time to find ways and means to open channels of dialogue to end the long grinding war. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Western sanctions: A symbolic sting, not a knockout blow for Russia

After one of the bloodiest engagements of the war, Moscow claimed complete control over the Ukrainian town of Avdiivka, but some Ukrainian troops were reportedly still holed up in a Soviet-era coke plant.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine's defences under strain as Russia enhances attack on the country

Two years ago, on 24th February, Russian missiles hit Ukraine. What followed changed global security- from the growing fear of a nuclear war to the rush for modernising militaries around the world. Russia currently controls nearly 18% of Ukraine. Kyiv has blamed the loss of Avdiivka on the lack of weapon supplies No one is ready to waive the white flag. What happens next in the Ukraine war?

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine claims it is running out of weapons and shells

<p>Four world leaders visited the Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Saturday (Feb 24), a day that marked the completion of two years of the Russia-Ukraine war. It was on this day in 2022, that Russian forces launched what&nbsp;President Vladimir Putin calls a 'special military operation'. On Saturday, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed confidence that Ukraine will clinch victory in the ongoing conflict.</p>

<p>He was flanked by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo.</p>

<p>"We will win," said Zelensky during the joint press conference at Gostomel airport in Kyiv. The airport has frequently been targeted by Russia.</p>

<p>In 2022, when Russian forces invaded Ukraine, it was expected that the former world superpower will quickly attain victory. But Ukrainian forces fought back. The West, led by the United States, slapped sanctions on Russia and poured billions of dollars in humanitarian as well as military aid for Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, following Western help Ukraine has not been able to mount a successful counteroffensive and Russian forces have dug in, building fortified defences on Ukrainian land.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-enters-third-year-as-putin-defies-wests-support-for-zelensky-693480">Russia-Ukraine war enters third year as Putin defies West's support for Zelensky</a></strong></p>

<p>On Saturday, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg Ukraine and the allies to not "lose heart". European Commission chief von der Leyen praised Ukraine for what she called its "extraordinary resistance".</p>

<p>Oleksandr Syrsky, Ukrainian military chief, said that he was sure of victory "because light always conquers darkness".</p>

<p>On the battlefield however, the war looks like a stalemate.</p>

<p>Additionally, Russia has ramped up its arms production and has increased budget spending for the defence sector. While confidence in the Western camp appeared to have taken a hit following lack of progress from the Ukrainian side.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia says its forces push further West after taking Avdiivka</strong></p>

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<p>There are now many voices in the Western lawmaking circles that are questioning continued assistance to Ukraine.</p>

<p>AFP quoted some Ukrainian soldiers who said that they did not have adequate equipment&nbsp;and weapons.</p>

<p>"Give us artillery, drones, counter-battery, shells," said a 31-year-old Ukrainian soldier, who identified himself as Woodie.</p>

<p>"Our infantry, armed with assault rifles and grenades, were facing artillery, aircraft, and tanks," added a 39-year-old serviceman from Kyiv.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Four world leaders visited the Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Saturday (Feb 24), a day that marked the completion of two years of the Russia-Ukraine war. It was on this day in 2022, that Russian forces launched what President Vladimir Putin calls a 'special military operation'.

Four world leaders visited the Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Saturday (Feb 24), a day that marked the completion of two years of the Russia-Ukraine war. It was on this day in 2022, that Russian forces launched what President Vladimir Putin calls a 'special military operation'. On Saturday, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed confidence that Ukraine will clinch victory in the ongoing conflict. He was flanked by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo. "We will win," said Zelensky during the joint press conference at Gostomel airport in Kyiv. The airport has frequently been targeted by Russia. In 2022, when Russian forces invaded Ukraine, it was expected that the former world superpower will quickly attain victory. But Ukrainian forces fought back. The West, led by the United States, slapped sanctions on Russia and poured billions of dollars in humanitarian as well as military aid for Ukraine. However, following Western help Ukraine has not been able to mount a successful counteroffensive and Russian forces have dug in, building fortified defences on Ukrainian land. Also Read | Russia-Ukraine war enters third year as Putin defies West's support for Zelensky On Saturday, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg Ukraine and the allies to not "lose heart". European Commission chief von der Leyen praised Ukraine for what she called its "extraordinary resistance". Oleksandr Syrsky, Ukrainian military chief, said that he was sure of victory "because light always conquers darkness". On the battlefield however, the war looks like a stalemate. Additionally, Russia has ramped up its arms production and has increased budget spending for the defence sector. While confidence in the Western camp appeared to have taken a hit following lack of progress from the Ukrainian side. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia says its forces push further West after taking Avdiivka × There are now many voices in the Western lawmaking circles that are questioning continued assistance to Ukraine. AFP quoted some Ukrainian soldiers who said that they did not have adequate equipment and weapons. "Give us artillery, drones, counter-battery, shells," said a 31-year-old Ukrainian soldier, who identified himself as Woodie. "Our infantry, armed with assault rifles and grenades, were facing artillery, aircraft, and tanks," added a 39-year-old serviceman from Kyiv. (With inputs from agencies)

Two years of Ukraine war: World leaders visit Kyiv, Zelensky confident of victory

<p><strong>Russia Ukraine War News:</strong>Two years ago, on Feb 24, 2022,&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin declared war on Ukraine citing "expansion of NATO to the east" as an existential threat to Russia and a violation of post-Cold War understanding between the then-leaders in Moscow and the Western capitals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since then, one more country&nbsp;— Finland&nbsp;— has become part of the US-led military alliance while another Russian neighbour,&nbsp;Sweden, is on course to enter NATO. But on the battlefield,&nbsp;two years of&nbsp;Russian advances, and Ukrainian counteroffensives have created a state of stalemate.</p>

<p>Russia controls just 18 per cent of Ukraine's internationally recognised territory. This is made up of 94 per cent of Luhansk Oblast, 73 per cent of Kherson Oblast, 72 per cent of Zaporizhzhia Oblast, and 54 per cent of Donetsk Oblast and Crimea. Notably, some of these territorial gains were made before&nbsp;February 24, 2022.</p>

<p>Since Ukraine’s failed counteroffensive in the summer of 2023, Russian forces have slowly inched forward, capturing the town of Avdiivka earlier this month after a&nbsp;months-long battle..</p>

<p><img alt="Two years into its full-scale offensive, Russia has captured a little less than a fifth of Ukraine's internationally-recognised territories| AFO" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="02100e2a-57ab-4405-8faa-d06dee4000ff" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-02-24T162349.649.png" /></p>

<p><em>Two years into its full-scale offensive, Russia has captured a little less than a fifth of Ukraine's internationally-recognised territories | AFP</em></p>

<p>In the weeks after February 24, 2022, the economic picture for Moscow looked challenging for Russia as the Rouble crashed and foreign investors fled. But the war-related demand-supply chain fuelled and fulfilled by the military-industry complex came in handy. Add oil exports to the mix, and the Russian economy continued to withstand hundreds of Western sanctions as war raged on in Ukraine that gave Moscow control of Ukraine's all Black Sea ports except the port of Odesa.</p>

<p>In the second half of this two-year war period so far, an insurrection by the Wagner mercenary group in June 2023 led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, stunned the corridors of power in Moscow.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-rebellion-when-putins-former-chef-served-a-dish-of-treason-ten-points-608452">Wagner rebellion: When Putin’s former favourite chef served a dish of ‘treason’ | 10 points</a></strong></p>

<p>The Wagner mercenaries, while following Prigozhin's orders, were halted just a few hours short of Moscow after a Belarus-brokered deal. The insurrection died as dramatically as it began, and so did Prigozhin — <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-dies-in-plane-crash-628895">two months later</a>, in a mysterious plane crash.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/25/362065-untitled-design-2023-06-25t115710522.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p><em>File photo of Russian President Vladimir Putin with Yevgeny Prigozhin | Reuters</em></p>

<p>But Putin's hold on power continues to be stable. The Russian president is poised to win a fifth six-year&nbsp;presidential term in the upcoming March election.</p>

<p>The war, however, has displaced millions of Ukrainian nationals and has changed the geopolitical landscape of Eurocentric politics. The economies have been hit due to disrupted supply chains, triggering global economic uncertainty.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia-Ukraine war: Peace efforts continued as war raged</strong></h2>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of signing a peace treaty with Russia to end the&nbsp;war and throwing it into the 'garbage of history' in the spring of 2022. Putin's comments came during a meeting with the leaders of the African Union spearheaded by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in St. Petersberg on June 17, 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Turkey hosted a series of negotiations starting in the spring of 2022 to help develop "trust" between the two warring sides.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-boris-johnson-plays-spoilsport-to-derail-peace-deal-with-ukraine-680854">Putin says Boris Johnson played spoilsport as UK PM, derailed peace deal with Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>Ahead of the second anniversary of the war,&nbsp;Switzerland told the United Nations on Friday (Feb 23) that it intends to organise a high-level Ukraine&nbsp;peace conference&nbsp;"by the summer". Similarly, a Ukrainian official visiting India this week <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-hopeful-that-pm-modi-will-attend-ukraine-peace-summit-says-ukrainian-minister-iryna-borovets-693299">confirmed</a> to WION that one such peace&nbsp;conference will be organised by Switzerland&nbsp;later this year.</p>

<p>India, too, has said&nbsp;that New Delhi is publicly committed to bringing the conflict to an end.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-india-act-as-mediator-to-end-russia-ukraine-war-jaishankar-responds-692012">Will India act as mediator to end Russia-Ukraine war? Jaishankar responds</a></strong></p>

<p>"Wherever we can help, we are happy to do so. We are open when we are approached. However, we do not believe that we should initiate anything in this direction on our own," India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-india-act-as-mediator-to-end-russia-ukraine-war-jaishankar-responds-692012">told</a> a German newspaper on Feb 20, 2024.</p>

<h2><strong>What is the current state of war?</strong></h2>

<p>The present-day momentum in the war rests with Russia due to control of Ukrainian ports as well as psychological blow to Ukraine's wartime morale due to the fall of the most aggressively defended Ukrainian town of Avdiivka earlier this month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian forces are also reportedly sensing an acute shortage of equipment and manpower amid dwindling support from Washington.</p>

<p>Russia, on the other hand, has been able to successfully re-adapt its wartime tactics&nbsp;with increased military conscription and support from its indigenous military-industry complex for the production of military equipment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But nearly 45,000 Russians have been killed in action since February 2022, the independent outlet MediaZona has reported. To put this in context, this&nbsp;is three times the Red Army’s losses during its decade-long invasion of Afghanistan.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Two years of Russia-Ukraine war, what is next?</strong></p>

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<p>On the front lines in Ukraine, nearly 45,000 Russians have been killed in action since February 2022, the independent outlet MediaZona has reported. That is three times the Soviet Army’s losses during its decade-long military operations in&nbsp;Afghanistan.</p>

<p>But with its&nbsp;greater resources in terms of human power, the tactical gains and strategic advantages&nbsp;continue to stay tilted on the Russian side as the war enters its third year.&nbsp;</p>


Russia Ukraine War News:Two years ago, on Feb 24, 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared war on Ukraine citing "expansion of NATO to the east" as an existential threat to Russia and a violation of post-Cold War understanding between the then-leaders in Moscow and the Western capitals.

Russia Ukraine War News:Two years ago, on Feb 24, 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared war on Ukraine citing "expansion of NATO to the east" as an existential threat to Russia and a violation of post-Cold War understanding between the then-leaders in Moscow and the Western capitals. Since then, one more country — Finland — has become part of the US-led military alliance while another Russian neighbour, Sweden, is on course to enter NATO. But on the battlefield, two years of Russian advances, and Ukrainian counteroffensives have created a state of stalemate. Russia controls just 18 per cent of Ukraine's internationally recognised territory. This is made up of 94 per cent of Luhansk Oblast, 73 per cent of Kherson Oblast, 72 per cent of Zaporizhzhia Oblast, and 54 per cent of Donetsk Oblast and Crimea. Notably, some of these territorial gains were made before February 24, 2022. Since Ukraine’s failed counteroffensive in the summer of 2023, Russian forces have slowly inched forward, capturing the town of Avdiivka earlier this month after a months-long battle.. Two years into its full-scale offensive, Russia has captured a little less than a fifth of Ukraine's internationally-recognised territories | AFP In the weeks after February 24, 2022, the economic picture for Moscow looked challenging for Russia as the Rouble crashed and foreign investors fled. But the war-related demand-supply chain fuelled and fulfilled by the military-industry complex came in handy. Add oil exports to the mix, and the Russian economy continued to withstand hundreds of Western sanctions as war raged on in Ukraine that gave Moscow control of Ukraine's all Black Sea ports except the port of Odesa. In the second half of this two-year war period so far, an insurrection by the Wagner mercenary group in June 2023 led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, stunned the corridors of power in Moscow. Also read | Wagner rebellion: When Putin’s former favourite chef served a dish of ‘treason’ | 10 points The Wagner mercenaries, while following Prigozhin's orders, were halted just a few hours short of Moscow after a Belarus-brokered deal. The insurrection died as dramatically as it began, and so did Prigozhin — two months later, in a mysterious plane crash. File photo of Russian President Vladimir Putin with Yevgeny Prigozhin | Reuters But Putin's hold on power continues to be stable. The Russian president is poised to win a fifth six-year presidential term in the upcoming March election. The war, however, has displaced millions of Ukrainian nationals and has changed the geopolitical landscape of Eurocentric politics. The economies have been hit due to disrupted supply chains, triggering global economic uncertainty. Russia-Ukraine war: Peace efforts continued as war raged Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of signing a peace treaty with Russia to end the war and throwing it into the 'garbage of history' in the spring of 2022. Putin's comments came during a meeting with the leaders of the African Union spearheaded by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in St. Petersberg on June 17, 2023. Turkey hosted a series of negotiations starting in the spring of 2022 to help develop "trust" between the two warring sides. Also read | Putin says Boris Johnson played spoilsport as UK PM, derailed peace deal with Ukraine Ahead of the second anniversary of the war, Switzerland told the United Nations on Friday (Feb 23) that it intends to organise a high-level Ukraine peace conference "by the summer". Similarly, a Ukrainian official visiting India this week confirmed to WION that one such peace conference will be organised by Switzerland later this year. India, too, has said that New Delhi is publicly committed to bringing the conflict to an end. Also read | Will India act as mediator to end Russia-Ukraine war? Jaishankar responds "Wherever we can help, we are happy to do so. We are open when we are approached. However, we do not believe that we should initiate anything in this direction on our own," India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar told a German newspaper on Feb 20, 2024. What is the current state of war? The present-day momentum in the war rests with Russia due to control of Ukrainian ports as well as psychological blow to Ukraine's wartime morale due to the fall of the most aggressively defended Ukrainian town of Avdiivka earlier this month. The Ukrainian forces are also reportedly sensing an acute shortage of equipment and manpower amid dwindling support from Washington. Russia, on the other hand, has been able to successfully re-adapt its wartime tactics with increased military conscription and support from its indigenous military-industry complex for the production of military equipment. But nearly 45,000 Russians have been killed in action since February 2022, the independent outlet MediaZona has reported. To put this in context, this is three times the Red Army’s losses during its decade-long invasion of Afghanistan. Also watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Two years of Russia-Ukraine war, what is next? × On the front lines in Ukraine, nearly 45,000 Russians have been killed in action since February 2022, the independent outlet MediaZona has reported. That is three times the Soviet Army’s losses during its decade-long military operations in Afghanistan. But with its greater resources in terms of human power, the tactical gains and strategic advantages continue to stay tilted on the Russian side as the war enters its third year.

Russia-Ukraine war enters third year as Putin defies West’s support for Zelensky

The United States on Friday imposed extensive sanctions against Russia, targeting more than 500 people and entities to mark the second anniversary of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine and retaliate for the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

Russia-Ukraine war: US targets Russia with hundreds of sanctions over Ukraine war, Navalny death

<p>The United States on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a fresh wave of more than 500 sanctions against Russia. These sanctions announced on the second anniversary of the Ukrainian war, come after the death of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny in prison.</p>

<p>Vowing sustained pressure to stop Russian President Vladimir Putin's "war machine," President Joe Biden said that the sanctions will target more than 100 "individuals connected to Navalny's imprisonment as well as Russia’s financial sector, defence industrial base, procurement networks and sanctions evaders across multiple continents."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What Biden said</strong></h2>

<p>Referring to the Ukraine war and Navalny's death, in a statement Biden said that the sanctions "will ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression abroad and repression at home."</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-to-impose-sanctions-on-over-500-targets-on-anniversary-of-ukraine-war-693074">US to impose sanctions on over 500 targets on anniversary of Ukraine war</a></strong></p>

<p>Biden announced that the US will implement additional export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for aiding Russia and will work towards reducing Russia's energy revenues.</p>

<p>"We are also imposing new export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for providing backdoor support for Russia's war machine," said Biden.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;France's defence minister Lecornu slams Moscow</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Russia and Sanctions</strong></h2>

<p>Since the start of the Ukraine war, the United States and its Western allies have imposed a slew of measures against Moscow. This includes blocking its financial assets, restricting high-tech exports and even setting an official cap on the sale price of Russian oil exports.</p>

<p>The latest sanctions come after Biden declared that he considers Russian President Putin responsible for the death of 47-year-old Navalny.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/navalnys-daughter-offers-tribute-to-late-father-in-first-public-statement-693120">Alexei Navalny's daughter Dasha Navalnaya offers tribute to late father in first public statement</a></strong></p>

<p>Just a day earlier, on Thursday (Feb 22nd) he met with Navalny's wife Yulia Navalnay and their daughter Dasha in California.</p>

<p>After the meeting, he told reporters that the Putin opponent was a man of incredible courage."</p>

<p>Biden's announcement of the latest measures included a plea to Congress for new military aid to Ukraine.</p>

<p>"History is watching. The failure to support Ukraine at this critical moment will not be forgotten," said Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a fresh wave of more than 500 sanctions against Russia. These sanctions announced on the second anniversary of the Ukrainian war, come after the death of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny in prison.

The United States on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a fresh wave of more than 500 sanctions against Russia. These sanctions announced on the second anniversary of the Ukrainian war, come after the death of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny in prison. Vowing sustained pressure to stop Russian President Vladimir Putin's "war machine," President Joe Biden said that the sanctions will target more than 100 "individuals connected to Navalny's imprisonment as well as Russia’s financial sector, defence industrial base, procurement networks and sanctions evaders across multiple continents." What Biden said Referring to the Ukraine war and Navalny's death, in a statement Biden said that the sanctions "will ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression abroad and repression at home." Also read | US to impose sanctions on over 500 targets on anniversary of Ukraine war Biden announced that the US will implement additional export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for aiding Russia and will work towards reducing Russia's energy revenues. "We are also imposing new export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for providing backdoor support for Russia's war machine," said Biden. Watch | France's defence minister Lecornu slams Moscow × Russia and Sanctions Since the start of the Ukraine war, the United States and its Western allies have imposed a slew of measures against Moscow. This includes blocking its financial assets, restricting high-tech exports and even setting an official cap on the sale price of Russian oil exports. The latest sanctions come after Biden declared that he considers Russian President Putin responsible for the death of 47-year-old Navalny. Also read | Alexei Navalny's daughter Dasha Navalnaya offers tribute to late father in first public statement Just a day earlier, on Thursday (Feb 22nd) he met with Navalny's wife Yulia Navalnay and their daughter Dasha in California. After the meeting, he told reporters that the Putin opponent was a man of incredible courage." Biden's announcement of the latest measures included a plea to Congress for new military aid to Ukraine. "History is watching. The failure to support Ukraine at this critical moment will not be forgotten," said Biden. (With inputs from agencies)

US announces over 500 sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression'

Russia said it had full control of the Ukrainian town of Avdiivka after Ukrainian troops withdrew, though Moscow said that some were still holed up in a Soviet-era coke plant after one of the most intense battles of the war.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russia makes crucial advances in Ukraine | Pushes further in West

According to Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk, Ukraine's military downed a Russian A-50 surveillance aircraft on Friday. This is the second time in a little over a month that Ukraine has reported downing the high-tech aircraft. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine claims 'Russian Spy Plane crashed near sea of Azov'

Today is the second anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russian forces have advanced further to the West. Russia claims it has destroyed key Ukrainian facilities. Meanwhile, as the war rages on, Ukrainians across the country face a grim uncertainty.

Russia-Ukraine war: Two years of Russia-Ukraine war, what is next?

Tens of thousands of individuals have vanished under mysterious circumstances two years into Russia's conflict with Ukraine; their whereabouts remain unknown.

Russia-Ukraine war: Hundreds of Ukrainians live in agony and uncertainty about location of relatives

As the Ukraine war enters its third year, the infantry of 59th Brigade are confronting a bleak reality: they're running out of soldiers and ammunition to resist their Russian invaders.

Ukraine outnumbered, outgunned and ground down by relentless Russia | East the new target?

According to Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk, Ukraine's military downed a Russian A-50 surveillance aircraft on Friday. This is the second time in a little over a month that Ukraine has reported downing the high-tech aircraft.

Ukraine claims it has shot down A-50 Russian spy plane, known for it rarity

<p>Russia on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a significant expansion of the list of European Union officials and politicians banned from entering Russia. This comes in response to the latest round of sanctions by the bloc.</p>

<h2><strong>'Fruitless attempts'</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement the Russian foreign ministry called the European Union's latest sanctions "fruitless attempts to put pressure," and said that the prohibitions are a response to the "unfriendly actions."</p>

<p>"The European Union is continuing its fruitless attempts to put pressure on Russia through unilateral restrictive measures," it said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-announces-more-than-500-sanctions-targeting-russian-prez-vladimir-putins-war-machine-693182">US announces 500+ sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression'</a></strong></p>

<p>"In response to these unfriendly actions, the Russian side has significantly expanded the list of representatives of European institutions and EU member states, who…are prohibited from entering the territory of our state."</p>

<p>As per a Reuters report quoting the Russian foreign ministry, the latest stop list includes representatives of law enforcement agencies and commercial organisations who provided military assistance to its neighbour, Ukraine. Additionally, representatives of European institutions involved in the prosecution of Russian officials, and those who gathered material to support the idea of confiscating Russian state assets feature on the said list.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Putin touts Russia's new nuclear bomber, Zelensky pleads for ammo | Has NATO lost Ukraine war?</strong></p>

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<p>"The Russian retaliatory 'stop list' also includes representatives of the Council of Europe, members of the legislative assemblies of European Union countries, members of the OSCE PA (Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) and the PACE (Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe), who systematically make aggressive statements against Russia," said the statement.</p>

<h2><strong>EU's sanctions on Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday (Feb 21st), EU member states approved the 13th package of Ukraine-related sanctions against Russia. These sanctions ban nearly 200 entities and individuals accused of helping Moscow procure weapons or of involvement in kidnapping Ukrainian children, a charge vehemently denied by Moscow.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-launches-probe-into-over-122000-suspected-war-crimes-since-start-of-russian-invasion-693241">Ukraine launches probe into over 122,000 suspected war crimes since start of Russian invasion</a></strong></p>

<p>The restrictions which as per Belgium are "one of the broadest approved by the EU" will see 193 entities and individuals added to the list of those banned from travelling to the EU or doing business there. However, no fresh measures were announced against specific economic sectors, reports Reuters citing unnamed EU diplomatic sources.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a significant expansion of the list of European Union officials and politicians banned from entering Russia. This comes in response to the latest round of sanctions by the bloc.

Russia on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a significant expansion of the list of European Union officials and politicians banned from entering Russia. This comes in response to the latest round of sanctions by the bloc. 'Fruitless attempts' In a statement the Russian foreign ministry called the European Union's latest sanctions "fruitless attempts to put pressure," and said that the prohibitions are a response to the "unfriendly actions." "The European Union is continuing its fruitless attempts to put pressure on Russia through unilateral restrictive measures," it said. Also read | US announces 500+ sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression' "In response to these unfriendly actions, the Russian side has significantly expanded the list of representatives of European institutions and EU member states, who…are prohibited from entering the territory of our state." As per a Reuters report quoting the Russian foreign ministry, the latest stop list includes representatives of law enforcement agencies and commercial organisations who provided military assistance to its neighbour, Ukraine. Additionally, representatives of European institutions involved in the prosecution of Russian officials, and those who gathered material to support the idea of confiscating Russian state assets feature on the said list. Watch | Putin touts Russia's new nuclear bomber, Zelensky pleads for ammo | Has NATO lost Ukraine war? × "The Russian retaliatory 'stop list' also includes representatives of the Council of Europe, members of the legislative assemblies of European Union countries, members of the OSCE PA (Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) and the PACE (Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe), who systematically make aggressive statements against Russia," said the statement. EU's sanctions on Ukraine On Wednesday (Feb 21st), EU member states approved the 13th package of Ukraine-related sanctions against Russia. These sanctions ban nearly 200 entities and individuals accused of helping Moscow procure weapons or of involvement in kidnapping Ukrainian children, a charge vehemently denied by Moscow. Also read | Ukraine launches probe into over 122,000 suspected war crimes since start of Russian invasion The restrictions which as per Belgium are "one of the broadest approved by the EU" will see 193 entities and individuals added to the list of those banned from travelling to the EU or doing business there. However, no fresh measures were announced against specific economic sectors, reports Reuters citing unnamed EU diplomatic sources. (With inputs from agencies)

Moscow responds to EU's 'unfriendly actions,' bans bloc members from entering Russia

As the Ukraine war enters its third year, Russia has gained the upper hand with recent victories on the battlefield. Outnumbered and outgunned, Ukraine has been pleading for more arms from the West. How long can the U.S.-led bloc sustain Ukraine's war efforts? What is the realistic step ahead?

Putin touts Russia's new nuclear bomber, Zelensky pleads for ammo | Has NATO lost Ukraine war?

Russia invaded Ukraine from three fronts in the biggest assault on a European state since World War Two. Tens of thousands flee. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" to demilitarise and "denazify" Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine war recap as conflict enters its second anniversary

Russia has claimed to have retaken a Ukrainian bridgehead on the banks of the Dnipro river. Kremlin says it has seized village of Krynky as its forces step up offensive. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia claims new advances in Ukraine's Dnipro bridgehead

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia claims to have captured village of Krynky

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia claims capture of Krynky and new advances in Dnipro bridgehead

As per reports, Iran has provided Russia with several powerful surface-to-surface ballistic missiles. The military cooperation between the two U.S-sanctioned countries is progressing tremendously. Watch this video for all details.

Did Iran send Russia hundreds of ballistic missiles?

Ukrainian soldiers holding their positions in Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia region, said on Wednesday (February 21) they expect renewed Russian assaults with a big amount of heavy military equipment and infantry.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia ramps up attacks on Ukraine's front lines

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