Latest in Russia-Ukraine war: Russia bombards Ukraine as three Russian drones hit Ukraine's Kharkiv. Russia launched a drone attack on Ukraine city of Kharkiv, killing seven people. The attacked damaged infrastructure and residential houses. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war: Russian drone strike sparks 'river of fire' in Ukraine's Kharkiv

Russian forces has reportedly launched massive storming of the eastern Ukrainian town of Avdiivka, in a culmination of a months long effort to capture the industrial hub.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian forces intensify efforts to seize Ukraine's Avdiivka

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian forces storming Ukraine's Avdiivka city

Russian troops are engaged in fighting with Ukrainian forces inside the beleaguered town of Avdiivka, which has been under sustained Russian assault since mid-October, Ukraine's military says.

Russia-Ukraine War: Cracks appear in Ukraine’s eastern fortress of Avdiivka

In an interview with the American talk show host Tucker Carlson Russian President Vladimir Putin said the West should understand it is impossible to defeat Russia in Ukraine. Watch to know more.

Putin slams the west in a rare US interview

President Volodymyr Zelensky replaced Ukraine's outgoing armed forces commander General Valeriy Zaluzhnyi with Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrskyi. The military shakeup comes at a difficult time for Ukraine on the battlefield with troops facing acute ammunition shortages with vital military assistance held up in the United States.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukrainian president replaces army's top general amid war with Russia

The United Arab Emirates said it succeeded in mediating the release of 100 Russian prisoners of war in exchange for 100 war prisoners from the Ukrainian side.

Russia's Defence Ministry, in a post on the Telegram messaging app, noted the UAE's "humanitarian mediation", as did Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and the Ukrainian body overseeing exchanges of POWs.

The UAE's foreign ministry said it is the third mediation effort between Russia and Ukraine this year adding that it is calling for diplomacy, dialogue, and de-escalation, state news agency WAM reported.

The United Arab Emirates said it succeeded in mediating the release of 100 Russian prisoners of war in exchange for 100 war prisoners from the Ukrainian side. Russia's Defence Ministry, in a post on the Telegram messaging app, noted the UAE's "humanitarian mediation", as did Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and the Ukrainian body overseeing exchanges of POWs.

The United Arab Emirates said it succeeded in mediating the release of 100 Russian prisoners of war in exchange for 100 war prisoners from the Ukrainian side. Russia's Defence Ministry, in a post on the Telegram messaging app, noted the UAE's "humanitarian mediation", as did Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and the Ukrainian body overseeing exchanges of POWs. The UAE's foreign ministry said it is the third mediation effort between Russia and Ukraine this year adding that it is calling for diplomacy, dialogue, and de-escalation, state news agency WAM reported.

UAE says mediation efforts led to Russia, Ukraine swap of 100 prisoners each

Russians are finding ways to escape the internet censorship being imposed in the country amid war. Reports say that more and more people are downloading VPN apps.

Gravitas | Putin Tightens Grip on Internet Access | How Russians Are Evading Kremlin's Eyes

Ukraine's top commander Valery Zaluzhny, who led Kyiv's forces throughout Russia's invasion, has been removed from his post. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky appoints Oleksandr Syrsky as the country's new army chief, in a dramatic military shakeup nearly two years into Russia's invasion. The development comes hours after Ukrainian Mayor in Avdiivka said that large numbers of Russian forces are storming the frontline Ukrainian town. Mayor Vitaly Barabash said, "Unfortunately, the enemy is pressing from all directions. There is not a single part of our city that is more or less calm".

Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky sacks Ukraine's army chief

Russia fired cruise and ballistic missiles and Shahed-type drones at six regions across Ukraine on Wednesday morning, authorities reported, killing at least five civilians and wounding dozens.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia strikes Ukraine with 64 missiles and drones

At least three civilians were killed and over 10 others were injured as Russia launched cruise and ballistic missiles as well as Shahed-type drones at targets throughout Ukraine, according to Ukrainian authorities.

The Ukrainian military claimed to have intercepted 44 of the 64 launched missiles and drones, indicating that Russia was aiming its missiles at at least three major cities.

"We are grateful to our brave defenders and our international partners who help us strengthening air defence capabilities," the ministry said.

The air raid alert began at about 6 am&nbsp;local time and lasted for about three hours.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;took to X to confirm the deaths of two civilians. He said two people were killed in the capital, Kyiv and one person in Mykolaiv in the south of the country.

“Another massive attack against our state. Six regions were under the enemy’s strike. All our services are now working to cope with the consequences of this terror,” he posted on X.

"My condolences to all who have lost loved ones," he said. "We will definitely retaliate against Russia; terrorists will always face the consequences of their actions. I am grateful to all of our medics, rescuers, and utility workers. I thank everyone who cares about our country and saves and assists people."

Parts of Kiev lost power, high-voltage wires were broken, and individuals were buried beneath debris, said Zelensky.

According to Mayor Vitalii Klitschko, 13 people were injured in Kyiv, including a pregnant woman. Apartment buildings caught fire in multiple Kyiv districts.

Oleksandr Senkevich, the mayor of Mykolaiv, said one man was killed in the attack, which also damaged the port city's water and gas pipelines and stripped the roofs of twenty dwellings.

According to Oleh Syniehubov, the regional governor of Kharkiv, in northeastern Ukraine, a 52-year-old woman was mildly hurt in an S-300 missile attack.

The attacks in Kyiv sent Josep Borrell, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, into an air raid shelter in his hotel, the AFP news agency reported. 
 
(With inputs from agency) 
 
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.

&nbsp;

At least three civilians were killed and over 10 others were injured as Russia launched cruise and ballistic missiles as well as Shahed-type drones at targets throughout Ukraine, according to Ukrainian authorities.

At least three civilians were killed and over 10 others were injured as Russia launched cruise and ballistic missiles as well as Shahed-type drones at targets throughout Ukraine, according to Ukrainian authorities. The Ukrainian military claimed to have intercepted 44 of the 64 launched missiles and drones, indicating that Russia was aiming its missiles at at least three major cities. "We are grateful to our brave defenders and our international partners who help us strengthening air defence capabilities," the ministry said. The air raid alert began at about 6 am local time and lasted for about three hours. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky took to X to confirm the deaths of two civilians. He said two people were killed in the capital, Kyiv and one person in Mykolaiv in the south of the country. “Another massive attack against our state. Six regions were under the enemy’s strike. All our services are now working to cope with the consequences of this terror,” he posted on X. "My condolences to all who have lost loved ones," he said. "We will definitely retaliate against Russia; terrorists will always face the consequences of their actions. I am grateful to all of our medics, rescuers, and utility workers. I thank everyone who cares about our country and saves and assists people." Parts of Kiev lost power, high-voltage wires were broken, and individuals were buried beneath debris, said Zelensky. According to Mayor Vitalii Klitschko, 13 people were injured in Kyiv, including a pregnant woman. Apartment buildings caught fire in multiple Kyiv districts. Oleksandr Senkevich, the mayor of Mykolaiv, said one man was killed in the attack, which also damaged the port city's water and gas pipelines and stripped the roofs of twenty dwellings. According to Oleh Syniehubov, the regional governor of Kharkiv, in northeastern Ukraine, a 52-year-old woman was mildly hurt in an S-300 missile attack. The attacks in Kyiv sent Josep Borrell, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, into an air raid shelter in his hotel, the AFP news agency reported. (With inputs from agency) 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.

Zelensky says two killed in Kyiv after massive missiles, drone attacks by Russia

The Russia-Ukraine war continues to drag on. Zelensky is seeking much-needed aid for Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia continues with its relentless grinding. Is Ukraine's Avdiivka next on Putin's target? Watch this video to find out.

Why does Russia want to capture Ukraine's Avdiivka?

Ukrainian President is replacing senior officials. Ukraine's Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi was the first on the list. Speculations have been rife that Zelensky will fire the highly popular Valerii Zaluzhnyi.

Why is Zelensky preparing to replace senior officials?

Ukraine claimed it used sea drones to sink a small Russian warship in the Black Sea as Russian investigators alleged that a Russian military transport plane that crashed last month was brought down by two US-made Patriot missiles fired by Kyiv’s forces.

Ukraine claims its sea drones sank a Russian warship

Ukraine's defence ministry and intelligence service published a video on February 1 to show a maritime drone attack on a Russian warship near Crimea. Watch to know more.

Russia-Ukraine war | Ukraine's explosive-laden sea drone races towards its Russian target

The Ukraine war appears&nbsp;to have taken a backseat in global perception as Israel-Hamas war started in the month of October last year. But this has not lessened the suffering of Ukrainians, effort of Ukrainian army to drive Russian army out and resolve of the latter to stand ground and repel Ukrainian attacks. The war continues to resemble a stalemate with neither side gaining decisively in the ongoing conflict. A major news related to war has come from the Ukrainian camp. There are media reports that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is unhappy with Ukraine army chief Valery Zaluzhny and is in a mind to replace him.

Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. After some major battlefield&nbsp;advances in the initial months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat from large swathes of Ukrainian land and there were some major gains for the Ukrainian side. Meanwhile, the Western nations, particularly led by the United States poured billions and billions of dollars in humanitarian as well as military help to Ukraine. Nations provided arms, ammunition and even tanks to Ukraine and this did help Ukrainian soldiers to be better equipped than their Russian adversaries. It was hence expected that Ukraine would launch a major counter-offensive and push Russians back.

Despite high anticipation, the decisive counter-offensive has not taken place. Excluding minor gains, the Ukrainian armed forces have not been able to push Russians back. The Russians remain dug in.

Multiple media reports now say that Zelensky now wants to replace army chief Zaluzhny and has already broached the subject with him.

Financial Times has reported that earlier this week, on Monday, Zelensky had a discussion with Zaluzhny on this matter and offered him another position in Ukraine's security apparatus. The four-star-general has reportedly refused to step down from the position of army chief and take up another post. Zelensky has reportedly told Zaluzhny that irrespective of his decision about taking the post being offered to him, he would be sacked as army chief.

<h2>The popular general</h2>

General Valery Zaluzhny remains popular in Ukraine as under him Ukrainian forces retook almost half of Russia-occupied regions in Ukraine in 2022. His assurances of major counteroffensive lifted morale of the Ukrainian people and projected an image globally that Ukraine was about to decisively fight back. This resulted in greater confidence among Western nations that helping Ukraine was indeed going to turn things around, helping the aid trickle.

<h2>So what's the feud between Zelensky and General Zaluzhny?</h2>

It is being reported that President Zelensky is not very happy with the situation of Ukraine army under General Zaluzhny, especially after the latter's promises of major counter-offensive were not fulfilled. The situation of Russia-Ukraine war has come to resemble World War I-style stagnant trench warfare with neither side making any decisive advance.

Although Ukraine received substantial help from the Western countries, Russia used the lull in hostilities to considerably fortify its position in Ukraine, as a result of which, its army has been able to repel Ukrainian attacks and even stage offensives elsewhere.

Zaluzhny was blamed by many in Ukraine's political circles for tactical mistakes.

Watch | Russia and Ukraine exchange PoWs after plane crash prevented last swap

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The general has not come up with a plan for 2024. Al-Jazeera has even reported that Zelensky has, at times, bypassed the army in some decisions to manage the armed forces and the war.

Ukraine was not able to gain advantage of brief but major chaos on the Russian side due to the rebellion of Wagner Group forces which were instrumental in some of Russia's gains in Ukraine.

Also, with no signs of major Ukrainian success on the battlefield, prominent voices in the Western camp, including from within US lawmaking circles have started doubting continuing to spend billions of dollars to help Ukraine. US President Joe Biden himself had to support the continued aid to Ukraine. But with US Presidential Election 2024 slated to take place later this year, there is, at least in theory, uncertainty about Biden's continued presence in the Oval Office.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/endgame-joe-biden-donald-trump-leads-over-serving-us-president-in-7-battleground-states-key-poll-finds-685746">Endgame Joe Biden? Donald Trump leads serving US president in 7 battleground states, key poll finds</a>

The clock appears to be ticking for Ukraine in spite of the European Union striking a deal for 50 billion euro aid for Kyiv. European Council president Charles Michel has made an announcement of the deal on social media platform X (formerly Twitter)

"All 27 leaders agreed on an additional €50 billion support package for Ukraine within the EU budget," said Michel.

"This locks in steadfast, long-term, predictable funding for Ukraine."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-unlocks-50-bln-euros-financial-aid-for-ukraine-amid-shifting-focus-on-gaza-red-sea-685938">EU unlock 50bn Euros financial aid for Ukraine amid shifting focus on Gaza, Red Sea</a>

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We have a deal. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Unity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Unity</a> 
 
All 27 leaders agreed on an additional €50 billion support package for Ukraine within the EU budget. 
 
This locks in steadfast, long-term, predictable funding for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a>. 
 
EU is taking leadership &amp; responsibility in support for Ukraine; we know what is…
— Charles Michel (@CharlesMichel) <a href="https://twitter.com/CharlesMichel/status/1753001809268920719?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Ukraine welcomed the development.

"EU Member States one more time show their solidarity and unity in the actions to Ukrainian people to withstand the war," wrote Ukraine's Prime Minister Denis Shmygal.&nbsp;

"Each of your votes is a significant contribution to our joint victory."

However, sustained support for Ukraine will likely depend on actual, tangible gains on the battlefield. Zelensky knows this and with increasing global pressure for him to deliver, General Zaluzhny's position looks shaky, irrespective of his massive popularity among Ukrainians.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Ukraine war appears to have taken a backseat in global perception as Israel-Hamas war started in the month of October last year. But this has not lessened the suffering of Ukrainians, effort of Ukrainian army to drive Russian army out and resolve of the latter to stand ground and repel Ukrainian attacks.

The Ukraine war appears to have taken a backseat in global perception as Israel-Hamas war started in the month of October last year. But this has not lessened the suffering of Ukrainians, effort of Ukrainian army to drive Russian army out and resolve of the latter to stand ground and repel Ukrainian attacks. The war continues to resemble a stalemate with neither side gaining decisively in the ongoing conflict. A major news related to war has come from the Ukrainian camp. There are media reports that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is unhappy with Ukraine army chief Valery Zaluzhny and is in a mind to replace him. Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. After some major battlefield advances in the initial months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat from large swathes of Ukrainian land and there were some major gains for the Ukrainian side. Meanwhile, the Western nations, particularly led by the United States poured billions and billions of dollars in humanitarian as well as military help to Ukraine. Nations provided arms, ammunition and even tanks to Ukraine and this did help Ukrainian soldiers to be better equipped than their Russian adversaries. It was hence expected that Ukraine would launch a major counter-offensive and push Russians back. Despite high anticipation, the decisive counter-offensive has not taken place. Excluding minor gains, the Ukrainian armed forces have not been able to push Russians back. The Russians remain dug in. Multiple media reports now say that Zelensky now wants to replace army chief Zaluzhny and has already broached the subject with him. Financial Times has reported that earlier this week, on Monday, Zelensky had a discussion with Zaluzhny on this matter and offered him another position in Ukraine's security apparatus. The four-star-general has reportedly refused to step down from the position of army chief and take up another post. Zelensky has reportedly told Zaluzhny that irrespective of his decision about taking the post being offered to him, he would be sacked as army chief. The popular general General Valery Zaluzhny remains popular in Ukraine as under him Ukrainian forces retook almost half of Russia-occupied regions in Ukraine in 2022. His assurances of major counteroffensive lifted morale of the Ukrainian people and projected an image globally that Ukraine was about to decisively fight back. This resulted in greater confidence among Western nations that helping Ukraine was indeed going to turn things around, helping the aid trickle. So what's the feud between Zelensky and General Zaluzhny? It is being reported that President Zelensky is not very happy with the situation of Ukraine army under General Zaluzhny, especially after the latter's promises of major counter-offensive were not fulfilled. The situation of Russia-Ukraine war has come to resemble World War I-style stagnant trench warfare with neither side making any decisive advance. Although Ukraine received substantial help from the Western countries, Russia used the lull in hostilities to considerably fortify its position in Ukraine, as a result of which, its army has been able to repel Ukrainian attacks and even stage offensives elsewhere. Zaluzhny was blamed by many in Ukraine's political circles for tactical mistakes. Watch | Russia and Ukraine exchange PoWs after plane crash prevented last swap × The general has not come up with a plan for 2024. Al-Jazeera has even reported that Zelensky has, at times, bypassed the army in some decisions to manage the armed forces and the war. Ukraine was not able to gain advantage of brief but major chaos on the Russian side due to the rebellion of Wagner Group forces which were instrumental in some of Russia's gains in Ukraine. Also, with no signs of major Ukrainian success on the battlefield, prominent voices in the Western camp, including from within US lawmaking circles have started doubting continuing to spend billions of dollars to help Ukraine. US President Joe Biden himself had to support the continued aid to Ukraine. But with US Presidential Election 2024 slated to take place later this year, there is, at least in theory, uncertainty about Biden's continued presence in the Oval Office. Also Read | Endgame Joe Biden? Donald Trump leads serving US president in 7 battleground states, key poll finds The clock appears to be ticking for Ukraine in spite of the European Union striking a deal for 50 billion euro aid for Kyiv. European Council president Charles Michel has made an announcement of the deal on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) "All 27 leaders agreed on an additional €50 billion support package for Ukraine within the EU budget," said Michel. "This locks in steadfast, long-term, predictable funding for Ukraine." Also Read | EU unlock 50bn Euros financial aid for Ukraine amid shifting focus on Gaza, Red Sea We have a deal. #Unity All 27 leaders agreed on an additional €50 billion support package for Ukraine within the EU budget. This locks in steadfast, long-term, predictable funding for #Ukraine. EU is taking leadership & responsibility in support for Ukraine; we know what is… — Charles Michel (@CharlesMichel) February 1, 2024 × Ukraine welcomed the development. "EU Member States one more time show their solidarity and unity in the actions to Ukrainian people to withstand the war," wrote Ukraine's Prime Minister Denis Shmygal. "Each of your votes is a significant contribution to our joint victory." However, sustained support for Ukraine will likely depend on actual, tangible gains on the battlefield. Zelensky knows this and with increasing global pressure for him to deliver, General Zaluzhny's position looks shaky, irrespective of his massive popularity among Ukrainians. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | The feud between Zelensky and Ukraine Army chief he wants to sack

Russia and Ukraine have conducted a major prisoner-of-war exchange a week after a previous swap was prevented when a Russian Il-76 transport plane was shot down and exploded near the border between the two countries. Both sides said about 200 prisoners each had been exchanged on Wednesday, although they disagreed about the exact figures.

Russia and Ukraine exchange PoWs after plane crash prevented last swap

The International Court of Justice has rejected most of Ukraine's case against Russia but it has also ruled that Moscow violated certain elements of the United Nations anti-terrorism treaty.

International Court of Justice tosses out most of Kyiv's claims

Anxiety at the very top of Ukraine’s wartime government has been laid bare, after rumours swept Kyiv on January 29th that the president, Volodymyr Zelensky, was about to fire his armed-forces commander, General Valery Zaluzhny, following weeks of reported tensions.

Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky suggested Army General to quit, write resignation note, says reports

President Zelensky reportedly fired Ukraine's army chief but was forced into taking a U-turn. Tensions are boiling over among Ukraine's top leaders.

Gravitas | Zelensky forced to reverse sacking of Ukraine's top general?

The European Union are meeting again to finalise a $50 billion aid package for Ukraine. But Hungary is apprehensive, having vetoed the move once. Will it block the aid again?

European Union leaders to meet in Brussels | Will Hungary block $50 bn Kyiv aid again?

European Union leaders are set to meet in Brussels on Thursday to agree on granting Ukraine more financial aid. However ahead of the meeting, a senior EU official has said that the talks remain difficult despite Hungary signalling its Readiness for a compromise.

European Union to grant more financial aid to Ukraine?

The Mosfilm, is a state-owned joint of Soviet and Russian cinema, it has produced classic films like Battleship Pumpkin. The cinema studios has now turned 100.

Russia's historic studio Mosfilm celebrates centenary amid war with Ukraine

Ukrainian&nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky sounded a warning on Sunday, expressing concern over the potential decrease in aid from the United States to Kyiv and emphasised&nbsp;the decision would send a negative message.

Zelensky, in an interview with German national broadcaster ARD, also sounded an alarm about the looming threat of the Ukraine conflict spiralling into World War Three.

<h2>A bad signal &nbsp;</h2>

Amid US President Joe Biden grapplling&nbsp;with a Republican obstruction on additional support to Ukraine, Zelensky urged Germany to leverage its economic influence to encourage EU partners to enhance their contributions to Kyiv's battle against Russia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-it-uncovered-corruption-scheme-in-weapons-procurement-by-military-684495">Ukraine says it uncovered corruption scheme in weapons procurement by military</a>

"Passivity from the United States or the lack of support would be a bad signal," he said, adding that it is not right for anyone, and that "Germany can manage to consolidate the EU."

"Germany can manage to consolidate the EU. Many countries have important economic relationships with Germany, and their economy is dependent on Germany's decisions because Germany has a strong economy," Zelensky stated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-obviously-ukraine-shot-army-plane-carrying-war-prisoners-684096">Putin says 'obviously' Ukraine shot army plane carrying war prisoners</a>

Urging nations from Germany to the United States to stand by Ukraine in these critical times, he articulated the gravity of the situation. Zelensky, as per Reuters, asserted that a potential Russian strike on a NATO country could serve as the ominous start to the Third World War.

"It seems to me that the Chancellor (Olaf Scholz) is aware of this risk," he said.&nbsp;

The ongoing political dynamics in the United States, particularly the Republican opposition, have posed challenges to the continuation of aid to Ukraine. Biden's administration has prioritised supporting Ukraine, and US assistance has been crucial in helping the country resist a significant Russian force. However, the opposition Republicans have sought to halt these efforts, linking budget approvals to demands for stringent measures against illegal migration.

Also watch |&nbsp;Pessimism over prospects for a victory is rising in Ukraine

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Zelensky, however, acknowledged the multifaceted support Ukraine receives in the United States and underscored the bipartisan consensus, noting that the vast majority of both Democrats and Republicans stand in solidarity with Ukraine.

"There are individual Republicans who do not support Ukraine, but the vast majority of Democrats and Republicans support Ukraine," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sounded a warning on Sunday, expressing concern over the potential decrease in aid from the United States to Kyiv and emphasised the decision would send a negative message.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sounded a warning on Sunday, expressing concern over the potential decrease in aid from the United States to Kyiv and emphasised the decision would send a negative message. Zelensky, in an interview with German national broadcaster ARD, also sounded an alarm about the looming threat of the Ukraine conflict spiralling into World War Three. A bad signal Amid US President Joe Biden grapplling with a Republican obstruction on additional support to Ukraine, Zelensky urged Germany to leverage its economic influence to encourage EU partners to enhance their contributions to Kyiv's battle against Russia. Also read | Ukraine says it uncovered corruption scheme in weapons procurement by military "Passivity from the United States or the lack of support would be a bad signal," he said, adding that it is not right for anyone, and that "Germany can manage to consolidate the EU." "Germany can manage to consolidate the EU. Many countries have important economic relationships with Germany, and their economy is dependent on Germany's decisions because Germany has a strong economy," Zelensky stated. Also read | Putin says 'obviously' Ukraine shot army plane carrying war prisoners Urging nations from Germany to the United States to stand by Ukraine in these critical times, he articulated the gravity of the situation. Zelensky, as per Reuters, asserted that a potential Russian strike on a NATO country could serve as the ominous start to the Third World War. "It seems to me that the Chancellor (Olaf Scholz) is aware of this risk," he said. The ongoing political dynamics in the United States, particularly the Republican opposition, have posed challenges to the continuation of aid to Ukraine. Biden's administration has prioritised supporting Ukraine, and US assistance has been crucial in helping the country resist a significant Russian force. However, the opposition Republicans have sought to halt these efforts, linking budget approvals to demands for stringent measures against illegal migration. Also watch | Pessimism over prospects for a victory is rising in Ukraine Zelensky, however, acknowledged the multifaceted support Ukraine receives in the United States and underscored the bipartisan consensus, noting that the vast majority of both Democrats and Republicans stand in solidarity with Ukraine. "There are individual Republicans who do not support Ukraine, but the vast majority of Democrats and Republicans support Ukraine," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Bad signal': Ukraine's Zelensky expresses concern over potential decrease in aid from US

The Security Service of Ukraine, commonly known as SBU, said on Saturday (Jan 27) that it uncovered a corruption scheme in the purchase of arms by the country's military to the tune of about $40 million.

The Security Service of Ukraine, commonly known as SBU, said on Saturday (Jan 27) that it uncovered a corruption scheme in the purchase of arms by the country's military to the tune of about $40 million. According to a report by news agency Reuters, the SBU said that an investigation had "exposed officials of the ministry of defence and managers of arms supplier Lviv Arsenal, who stole nearly 1.5 billion hryvnias in the purchase of shells." "According to the investigation, former and current high-ranking officials of the ministry of defence and heads of affiliated companies are involved in the embezzlement," the SBU said, adding the embezzlement involved the purchase of 100,000 mortar shells for the military. The allegations were confirmed by the defence ministry. 'Five people served notices of suspicion' The SBU said on Saturday that a contract for the mortar shells was clinched by Lviv Arsenal in August 2022- six months after Russia's offensive- and payment was made in advance, with some funds transferred abroad. However, no arms were provided, and some of the funds were moved to other foreign accounts. Also read | Putin says 'obviously' Ukraine shot army plane carrying war prisoners The security service also said that five individuals had been served "notices of suspicion" - the first stage in Ukrainian legal proceedings - both in the ministry and the arms supplier. One of the suspects was detained while trying to cross the Ukrainian border. Meanwhile, Ukraine's prosecutor general said the stolen funds have been seized and will be returned to the defence budget. In recent months, Ukraine has seen a series of corruption scandals including several others within the defence ministry. Also watch | Pessimism over prospects for a victory is rising in Ukraine × The latest expose by the SBU comes amidst Republican lawmakers in the United States resisting President Joe Biden's efforts to send more aid to Kyiv. Last week, President Biden's top aids told lawmakers in a private meeting that if Congress failed to authorise additional military aid for Ukraine in the coming days, Russia could win the war in a matter of weeks or months, NBC News reported. Citing sources, the report said that National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and the Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines have said that Kyiv would run out of certain air defence and artillery capabilities in the coming weeks. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine says it uncovered corruption scheme in weapons procurement by military

The primary reason why Russia attacked Ukraine was for its wish to join NATO. But it seems President Putin might be opening up to this idea. He is testing the waters with the U.S. To engage in peace talks.

Gravitas: Is the war in Ukraine winding down?

Days after the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the US is "always open" to talks with Russia, it has emerged that Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly looking for ways to engage with the United States.&nbsp;

Blinken on Jan 17 had said that while Washington is always open for talks, "in this moment", he doesn't see it happening.

"There has to be a willingness on the part of Russia to engage, to negotiate in good faith, based on the basic principles that have been challenged by its aggression — territorial integrity, sovereignty, independence," Blinken said.

According to a&nbsp;Bloomberg report that cited&nbsp;two people close to the Kremlin, Putin has indicated to Washington through indirect channels that he is open to discussions, which&nbsp;may potentially include future security arrangements for Ukraine.

Also watch |&nbsp;UNSC Meet: Sergey Lavrov rules out peace plans supported by Kyiv and West

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As the Russia-Ukraine war heads into its third year, the US officials that Bloomberg cited said they are not aware of Moscow's supposed overtures for a conclusive end of the war in Ukraine.

<h2>Russia's past efforts to end war in Ukraine</h2>

In June 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of signing a peace treaty with Moscow to end the ongoing war and throwing it into the 'garbage of history' shortly after that in the spring of 2022, during the initial weeks of war in Ukraine.

Putin's comments came during a meeting with the leaders of African Union spearheaded by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at St. Petersberg's historic Konstantinovsky Palace in June 2023.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-ukraine-signed-peace-treaty-with-russia-in-spring-of-2022-then-threw-it-into-garbage-of-history-605673">Putin says Ukraine signed peace treaty with Russia in spring of 2022, then threw it into 'garbage of history'</a>

Turkey hosted a series of negotiations starting in the spring of 2022 to help develop "trust" between the two warring sides.

Ukraine under President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to recapture lost territories and has expressed unwillingness to end the war with nothing short of full withdrawal by Russian forces as per the status quo before February 2022.&nbsp;

<h2>What amends Putin is reportedly willing to make for peace this time?</h2>

Putin, according to Kremlin insiders cited by Bloomberg, may be willing to consider dropping an insistence on neutral status for Ukraine and "even ultimately abandon opposition to eventual NATO membership". This, the report added, may potentially come once Ukraine gives up the claim on Ukrainian land captured by Russian forces since February 2022.&nbsp;

In a televised address right before launching war on Ukraine in February 2022, Putin had reasoned NATO's eastward expansion towards Russian borders as one of the defining reasons behind Moscow's&nbsp;offensive in Ukraine.

"We are unaware of the shifts in Russia’s position described," US National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said.&nbsp;

"It will be up to Ukraine to decide whether, when, and how to negotiate with Russia." 
 
(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.

Days after the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the US is "always open" to talks with Russia, it has emerged that Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly looking for ways to engage with the United States.

Days after the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the US is "always open" to talks with Russia, it has emerged that Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly looking for ways to engage with the United States. Blinken on Jan 17 had said that while Washington is always open for talks, "in this moment", he doesn't see it happening. "There has to be a willingness on the part of Russia to engage, to negotiate in good faith, based on the basic principles that have been challenged by its aggression — territorial integrity, sovereignty, independence," Blinken said. According to a Bloomberg report that cited two people close to the Kremlin, Putin has indicated to Washington through indirect channels that he is open to discussions, which may potentially include future security arrangements for Ukraine. Also watch | UNSC Meet: Sergey Lavrov rules out peace plans supported by Kyiv and West × As the Russia-Ukraine war heads into its third year, the US officials that Bloomberg cited said they are not aware of Moscow's supposed overtures for a conclusive end of the war in Ukraine. Russia's past efforts to end war in Ukraine In June 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of signing a peace treaty with Moscow to end the ongoing war and throwing it into the 'garbage of history' shortly after that in the spring of 2022, during the initial weeks of war in Ukraine. Putin's comments came during a meeting with the leaders of African Union spearheaded by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at St. Petersberg's historic Konstantinovsky Palace in June 2023. Also read | Putin says Ukraine signed peace treaty with Russia in spring of 2022, then threw it into 'garbage of history' Turkey hosted a series of negotiations starting in the spring of 2022 to help develop "trust" between the two warring sides. Ukraine under President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to recapture lost territories and has expressed unwillingness to end the war with nothing short of full withdrawal by Russian forces as per the status quo before February 2022. What amends Putin is reportedly willing to make for peace this time? Putin, according to Kremlin insiders cited by Bloomberg, may be willing to consider dropping an insistence on neutral status for Ukraine and "even ultimately abandon opposition to eventual NATO membership". This, the report added, may potentially come once Ukraine gives up the claim on Ukrainian land captured by Russian forces since February 2022. In a televised address right before launching war on Ukraine in February 2022, Putin had reasoned NATO's eastward expansion towards Russian borders as one of the defining reasons behind Moscow's offensive in Ukraine. "We are unaware of the shifts in Russia’s position described," US National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said. "It will be up to Ukraine to decide whether, when, and how to negotiate with Russia." (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.

Putin willing to let Ukraine join NATO? New report indicates renewed peace effort

Russian President Vladimir Putin is hinting at restarting negotiations in the ongoing Ukraine war through secret indirect channels. As per reports citing sources Russia has sent signals to United States through back channels that it may be willing to consider dropping its insistence on Ukraine's neutrality and also ultimately abandon opposition to its eventual NATO membership.

Russia-Ukraine war | US-Russia secret back channel talks?

Russia-Ukraine war | Secret back channel talks to agree on security guarantees

Did Zelensky's men order the bombing of the Russian plane that was carrying 65 Ukrainian POWs. Russia certainly thinks so. If Moscow is right, why would Ukraine kill its soldiers? What led to the crash of Russia's 100-ton aircraft on January 24th? Was the plane even carrying POWs? We piece together the details of what has come out on this episode of Gravitas.

Gravitas: Putin fumes as Russian jet with POWs crashes near Ukraine | Did Zelensky order the hit?

A Russian Ilyushin Il-76 military transport plane crashed on Wednesday in Russia's Belgorod region. Russia has accused Ukraine of downing the plane whereas Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Moscow of "playing with the lives of Ukrainian prisoners of war."

Russian military plane crash: Blame game erupts after Belgorod plane crash

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