The Russia Ukraine War has been escalating with no end in sight after Ukraine launched the long-awaited counter-offensive on Russia last week. The conditions have bee difficult for both the sides. In a new statement, Ukraine's President Zelensky said that fighting with the Russian forces was tough for Ukraine but his forces are making progress on the battlefield.

Ukraine takes 90 sq km of area from Russia, seven settlements taken over in last week | WION

High waves and gusting downpours in Gujarat's coastal areas uprooting trees and resulted in more collapse that killed three people in Western India. With more people who have drowned in the Arabian Sea in Mumbai, the death toll has risen to seven even before the Cyclone made landfall.

Cyclone Biparjoy to make landfall on Thursday: IMD

The West has been accusing Russia's blackmailing Europe over gas supplies ever since the Ukraine war started and now Germany has said that it may have to shut down industrial capacity if Ukraine's Gas Transit agreement with Russia is not extended. The deal is expected to end by 2024 and German economy Minister Robert Habeck says that lawmakers should avoid making the same mistake of assuming that the economy will be unaffected without any precautions to safeguard energy supplies.

Germany will export gas to East Europe

<p>Russia on Sunday claimed that its force repelled an attack by the Ukrainian army on a Russian warship which was guarding gas pipelines in the Black Sea.<br />
<br />
"Ukraine's armed forces made an unsuccessful attempt to attack the Black Sea Fleet's Priazovye ship," stated the Russian defence ministry, adding that the forces of Kyiv used six unmanned boats.<br />
<br />
"All the boats have been destroyed. There are no casualties,” the ministry said in a statement.<br />
<br />
The Priazovye battleship, which has been guarding the Blue Stream and the TurkStream gas pipelines, has been performing its tasks without much hindrance, said the defence ministry.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="Russian opposition failing to unite against Putin. Here's why">Russian opposition failing to unite against Putin. Here's why</a></p>

<p>At the time of the attack, reconnaissance was being conducted by a remotely piloted US military aircraft called the RQ-4 Global Hawk in the Black Sea, Moscow stated.</p>

<h2><strong>35 people missing in Ukraine's devastating flood: Minister</strong></h2>

<p>Thirty-five people, which included seven children, went missing in southern Ukraine on Sunday in the devastating flood which prosecutors called the "worst environmental catastrophe since Chernobyl".<br />
<br />
On June 6, the Russian-controlled Kakhovka dam located along the front line in the Kherson region blew up and forced thousands of people to flee, sparking fears of environmental and humanitarian disasters.<br />
<br />
Russia has been accused by Ukraine of blowing up the dam on the Dnipro River, while Moscow stated that Kyiv fired upon the structure.<br />
<br />
Ukrainian Interior Minister Igor Klymenko stated that 77 towns and villages were flooded in the southern regions of Mykolaiv and Kherson. Klymenko stated that 35 people went missing in the Kherson region, which included seven children.<br />
<br />
Because of the flood, five people lost their lives in Kherson and one person was killed in the region of Mykolaiv.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia under way</strong></p>

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<p>Around 3,700 people were evacuated from their homes in both regions, said the minister in a statement. “Separately, Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin and representatives of the International Criminal Court visited the flooded territory,” stated his office.<br />
<br />
"This is the worst environmental catastrophe since Chernobyl so we are investigating not only a war crime but also an ecocide," said Kostin in a statement. "The situation is very complicated," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine announces first gain of offensive, says retook village in southeast</strong></h2>

<p>On Sunday,&nbsp;Kyiv stated that Ukrainian forces have retaken a village in the&nbsp;south of the country which marked&nbsp;the first reported gain of the offensive. In a statement, Ukraine's ground forces stated that&nbsp;soldiers of the 68th separate ranger brigade had "liberated the settlement of Blagodatne" in the region of Donetsk.<br />
<br />
Earlier in the day, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia has started. "Counter-offensive and defensive actions are taking place," he stated.<br />
<br />
<em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>

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Russia on Sunday claimed that its force repelled an attack by the Ukrainian army on a Russian warship which was guarding gas pipelines in the Black Sea. "Ukraine's armed forces made an unsuccessful attempt to attack the Black Sea Fleet's Priazovye ship," stated the Russian defence ministry, adding that the forces of Kyiv used six unmanned boats.

Russia on Sunday claimed that its force repelled an attack by the Ukrainian army on a Russian warship which was guarding gas pipelines in the Black Sea. "Ukraine's armed forces made an unsuccessful attempt to attack the Black Sea Fleet's Priazovye ship," stated the Russian defence ministry, adding that the forces of Kyiv used six unmanned boats. "All the boats have been destroyed. There are no casualties,” the ministry said in a statement. The Priazovye battleship, which has been guarding the Blue Stream and the TurkStream gas pipelines, has been performing its tasks without much hindrance, said the defence ministry. ALSO READ | Russian opposition failing to unite against Putin. Here's why At the time of the attack, reconnaissance was being conducted by a remotely piloted US military aircraft called the RQ-4 Global Hawk in the Black Sea, Moscow stated. 35 people missing in Ukraine's devastating flood: Minister Thirty-five people, which included seven children, went missing in southern Ukraine on Sunday in the devastating flood which prosecutors called the "worst environmental catastrophe since Chernobyl". On June 6, the Russian-controlled Kakhovka dam located along the front line in the Kherson region blew up and forced thousands of people to flee, sparking fears of environmental and humanitarian disasters. Russia has been accused by Ukraine of blowing up the dam on the Dnipro River, while Moscow stated that Kyiv fired upon the structure. Ukrainian Interior Minister Igor Klymenko stated that 77 towns and villages were flooded in the southern regions of Mykolaiv and Kherson. Klymenko stated that 35 people went missing in the Kherson region, which included seven children. Because of the flood, five people lost their lives in Kherson and one person was killed in the region of Mykolaiv. WATCH | Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia under way Around 3,700 people were evacuated from their homes in both regions, said the minister in a statement. “Separately, Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin and representatives of the International Criminal Court visited the flooded territory,” stated his office. "This is the worst environmental catastrophe since Chernobyl so we are investigating not only a war crime but also an ecocide," said Kostin in a statement. "The situation is very complicated," he added. Ukraine announces first gain of offensive, says retook village in southeast On Sunday, Kyiv stated that Ukrainian forces have retaken a village in the south of the country which marked the first reported gain of the offensive. In a statement, Ukraine's ground forces stated that soldiers of the 68th separate ranger brigade had "liberated the settlement of Blagodatne" in the region of Donetsk. Earlier in the day, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia has started. "Counter-offensive and defensive actions are taking place," he stated. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia claims it repelled attack by Ukraine on Black Sea warship

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - Ukraine claims to have retaken three villages in Donetsk, Russia claims to repel Ukrainian attack on Black Sea warship, Russia-Ukraine prisoner swap, Russia arrests US citizens on drug dealing charges.

Ukraine claims to have retaken 3 villages in Donetsk | Russia-Ukraine's prisoner swap

The war between Russia & Ukraine has been focused on three regions over the weekend. We are focusing on three specific regions in Ukraine. These have been at the centre of attention in the last three days, following the explosion which dismantled the Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro river last week.

Ukrainian counteroffensive claims victories in Donetsk, Russian shelling kills 3 in Kherson | WION

Ukraine has announced that its forces have retaken three villages in the Eastern region of Donetsk. This is the first reported gains of Ukraine's much anticipated counter-offensive which President Zelensky confirmed is now underway.

Russia Ukraine War: Kyiv claims 3 villages taken in Donetsk, Moscow yet to confirm the fall

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday urged his Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi to stop backing Russia's efforts in the invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>Macron asked Raisi to "immediately end" Tehran's support to Russia in the war against Ukraine, including the supply of drones, said the Elysee Palace.</p>

<p>In a telephonic conversation, the French President highlighted the serious "security and humanitarian consequences" of Iran's drone deliveries "and urged Tehran to immediately end the support it thus gives to Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine", the statement said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-receiving-materials-from-iran-to-build-drone-factory-says-white-house-602656">Russia receiving material from Iran to build drone factory, says White House</a></p>

<p>The call by the French President came a day after White House national security spokesman John Kirby said that Iran was sending materials to Russia to build a drone factory on its territory.</p>

<h2><strong>Drone factory 'could be fully operational early next year': Kirby</strong></h2>

<p>John Kirby said that Russia was importing materials from Iran to build the drone factory which "could be fully operational early next year".</p>

<p>The White House released a satellite image of the location of the forthcoming plant in the Alabuga Special Economic Zone, which was based some 900 kilometres (560 miles) east of Moscow.</p>

<p>"The Russia-Iran military partnership appears to be deepening," Kirby said in a statement, citing US intelligence information.</p>

<p>The White House said it would release a new government advisory to assist businesses and governments "to ensure they are not inadvertently contributing to Iran's (drone) programme".</p>

<p>According to Washington, Russia has received hundreds of attack drones and related equipment from Iran to aid Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>As per US data, Kirby said, the drones "are built in Iran, shipped across the Caspian Sea and then used operationally by Russian forces against Ukraine."</p>

<p>"Russia has been using Iranian UAVs in recent weeks to strike Kyiv and terrorise the Ukrainian population," he added, referring to unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones.</p>

<p>Washington issued the alert on what it feels are Moscow's efforts to create Iranian drones itself.</p>

<p>"We have information that Russia is receiving materials from Iran needed to build a UAV manufacturing plant inside Russia," Kirby said.</p>

<p>According to the White House, in turn, Iran is seeking to purchase Su-35 fighter jets, attack helicopters, radars, and YAK-130 combat trainer aircraft from Russia.</p>

<p>"We will continue to impose sanctions on the actors involved in the transfer of Iranian military equipment to Russia for use in Ukraine," AFP quoted Kirby as saying.</p>

<p>Iran has repeatedly denied the allegations made by the United States of sending military supplies to Russia during its war against Ukraine.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday urged his Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi to stop backing Russia's efforts in the invasion of Ukraine. Macron asked Raisi to "immediately end" Tehran's support to Russia in the war against Ukraine, including the supply of drones, said the Elysee Palace.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday urged his Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi to stop backing Russia's efforts in the invasion of Ukraine. Macron asked Raisi to "immediately end" Tehran's support to Russia in the war against Ukraine, including the supply of drones, said the Elysee Palace. In a telephonic conversation, the French President highlighted the serious "security and humanitarian consequences" of Iran's drone deliveries "and urged Tehran to immediately end the support it thus gives to Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine", the statement said. Also read: Russia receiving material from Iran to build drone factory, says White House The call by the French President came a day after White House national security spokesman John Kirby said that Iran was sending materials to Russia to build a drone factory on its territory. Drone factory 'could be fully operational early next year': Kirby John Kirby said that Russia was importing materials from Iran to build the drone factory which "could be fully operational early next year". The White House released a satellite image of the location of the forthcoming plant in the Alabuga Special Economic Zone, which was based some 900 kilometres (560 miles) east of Moscow. "The Russia-Iran military partnership appears to be deepening," Kirby said in a statement, citing US intelligence information. The White House said it would release a new government advisory to assist businesses and governments "to ensure they are not inadvertently contributing to Iran's (drone) programme". According to Washington, Russia has received hundreds of attack drones and related equipment from Iran to aid Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. As per US data, Kirby said, the drones "are built in Iran, shipped across the Caspian Sea and then used operationally by Russian forces against Ukraine." "Russia has been using Iranian UAVs in recent weeks to strike Kyiv and terrorise the Ukrainian population," he added, referring to unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones. Washington issued the alert on what it feels are Moscow's efforts to create Iranian drones itself. "We have information that Russia is receiving materials from Iran needed to build a UAV manufacturing plant inside Russia," Kirby said. According to the White House, in turn, Iran is seeking to purchase Su-35 fighter jets, attack helicopters, radars, and YAK-130 combat trainer aircraft from Russia. "We will continue to impose sanctions on the actors involved in the transfer of Iranian military equipment to Russia for use in Ukraine," AFP quoted Kirby as saying. Iran has repeatedly denied the allegations made by the United States of sending military supplies to Russia during its war against Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Emmanuel Macron urges Iran to 'immediately end' support to Russia in war against Ukraine

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<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (June 10) criticised parts of the world for being indifferent towards the Kakhovka dam disaster last week. In his evening address, President Zelensky said “Now, unfortunately, we see that at some levels, the world is simply shamefully indifferent to the ecocide and human tragedy caused by the Russian terrorist attack on the Kakhovka hydroelectric power station,” the news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“When international organisations that are supposed to protect life on a global scale fail to form and send a rescue mission to the occupied territory even in a week, when some global actors do not dare to come out with clear and strong statements condemning this latest Russian war crime, terrorists are simply fuelled by this weakness of the world, this indifference - it encourages them," Zelensky added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian president also said that over 3,000 people had been evacuated from Kherson and Mykolaiv regions.</p>

<h2><strong>Russian shelling continues at evacuation points: Zelensky</strong></h2>

<p>During his address, Zelensky pointed out that Russian shelling continued even at evacuation points, adding Moscow was not providing any real help to people in the flooded areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"International organisations must work where we have not yet de-occupied our territories. Every life is important — the entire Kherson region, the entire south, every city and village. We will do everything possible and impossible to get help to all our people,” he further said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The destruction of the Kakhovka dam is one of the latest flashpoints between Ukraine and Russia in the ongoing war. Both countries have blamed each other for the disaster.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The flood triggered by the damage has forced thousands of civilians to flee and has also sparked fears of an environmental and humanitarian disaster. At least five people have died due to floods.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia behind dam breach: EU foreign policy chief&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On Friday, the European Union's (EU) Foreign Policy chief Josep Borrel said everything indicated that Russia was behind the Kakhovka dam destruction. Speaking to Spanish public television, Borrell said, "The dam was not bombed. It was destroyed by explosives installed in the areas where the turbines are located. This area is under Russian control," the news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I wasn't there to find out who did it. But everything seems to indicate that if it took place in an area under Russian control, it is difficult to believe it could have been someone else," he added.</p>

<p>The EU foreign policy chief also pointed out the dam's destruction would cause an ecological disaster.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (June 10) criticised parts of the world for being indifferent towards the Kakhovka dam disaster last week. In his evening address, President Zelensky said “Now, unfortunately, we see that at some levels, the world is simply shamefully indifferent to the ecocide and human tragedy caused by the Russian terrorist attack on the Kakhovka hydroelectric power station,” the news agency Reuters reported.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (June 10) criticised parts of the world for being indifferent towards the Kakhovka dam disaster last week. In his evening address, President Zelensky said “Now, unfortunately, we see that at some levels, the world is simply shamefully indifferent to the ecocide and human tragedy caused by the Russian terrorist attack on the Kakhovka hydroelectric power station,” the news agency Reuters reported. “When international organisations that are supposed to protect life on a global scale fail to form and send a rescue mission to the occupied territory even in a week, when some global actors do not dare to come out with clear and strong statements condemning this latest Russian war crime, terrorists are simply fuelled by this weakness of the world, this indifference - it encourages them," Zelensky added. The Ukrainian president also said that over 3,000 people had been evacuated from Kherson and Mykolaiv regions. Russian shelling continues at evacuation points: Zelensky During his address, Zelensky pointed out that Russian shelling continued even at evacuation points, adding Moscow was not providing any real help to people in the flooded areas. "International organisations must work where we have not yet de-occupied our territories. Every life is important — the entire Kherson region, the entire south, every city and village. We will do everything possible and impossible to get help to all our people,” he further said. The destruction of the Kakhovka dam is one of the latest flashpoints between Ukraine and Russia in the ongoing war. Both countries have blamed each other for the disaster. The flood triggered by the damage has forced thousands of civilians to flee and has also sparked fears of an environmental and humanitarian disaster. At least five people have died due to floods. Russia behind dam breach: EU foreign policy chief On Friday, the European Union's (EU) Foreign Policy chief Josep Borrel said everything indicated that Russia was behind the Kakhovka dam destruction. Speaking to Spanish public television, Borrell said, "The dam was not bombed. It was destroyed by explosives installed in the areas where the turbines are located. This area is under Russian control," the news agency AFP reported. "I wasn't there to find out who did it. But everything seems to indicate that if it took place in an area under Russian control, it is difficult to believe it could have been someone else," he added. The EU foreign policy chief also pointed out the dam's destruction would cause an ecological disaster. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine dam collapse: Zelensky says world ‘shamefully indifferent’ to disaster

<p>The White House said on Friday (June 9) that Russia appeared to deepen its defence cooperation with Iran and this had resulted in it getting hundreds of Iranian drones which it was using to strike Ukraine.<br />
<br />
The White House cited newly declassified information. It said that the Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) built in Iran were being shipped across the Caspian Sea and were then being used by Russia against Ukraine.</p>

<p>"Russia has been using Iranian UAVs in recent weeks to strike Kyiv and terrorize the Ukrainian population, and the Russia-Iran military partnership appears to be deepening," White House spokesman John Kirby said in a statement.</p>

<p>"We are also concerned that Russia is working with Iran to produce Iranian UAVs from inside Russia."</p>

<p>Kirby said that the US was in possession of information that Russia was receiving materials from Iran which was required to build a drone manufacturing plant. This plant, said Kirby could be fully operational early next year.</p>

<p>"We are releasing satellite imagery of the planned location of this UAV manufacturing plant in Russia’s Alabuga Special Economic Zone," he said.</p>

<p>The US has previously sanctioned Iranian executives at a defence manufacturer over drone supplies to Russia. Iran has acknowledged sending drones to Russia but said in the past they were sent before Russia's February invasion. Moscow has denied its forces used Iranian drones in Ukraine. A White House official said Iran had transferred several hundred drones to Russia since August.</p>

<p>Kirby said that support between Iran and Russia was both ways. Iran is seeking billions of dollars worth of military equipment from Russia. This includes helicopters and radars.</p>

<p>"Russia has been offering Iran unprecedented defense cooperation, including on missiles, electronics, and air defense," he said.</p>

<p>"This is a full-scale defense partnership that is harmful to Ukraine, to Iran’s neighbors, and to the international community. We are continuing to use all the tools at our disposal to expose and disrupt these activities including by sharing this with the public – and we are prepared to do more."</p>

<h2><strong>Violation of UN rules&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Kirby said that drone transfer constituted violation of United Nations rules. He added that the US would seek to hold Russia and Iran accountable.</p>

<p>In addition to the US, countries like Britain, France, Germany and Ukraine say that supply of Iran-made drones to Russia violates a 2015 U.N. Security Council resolution enshrining the Iran nuclear deal.</p>

<p>Under the 2015 U.N. resolution, a conventional arms embargo on Iran was in place until October 2020.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The White House said on Friday (June 9) that Russia appeared to deepen its defence cooperation with Iran and this had resulted in it getting hundreds of Iranian drones which it was using to strike Ukraine.

The White House said on Friday (June 9) that Russia appeared to deepen its defence cooperation with Iran and this had resulted in it getting hundreds of Iranian drones which it was using to strike Ukraine. The White House cited newly declassified information. It said that the Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) built in Iran were being shipped across the Caspian Sea and were then being used by Russia against Ukraine. "Russia has been using Iranian UAVs in recent weeks to strike Kyiv and terrorize the Ukrainian population, and the Russia-Iran military partnership appears to be deepening," White House spokesman John Kirby said in a statement. "We are also concerned that Russia is working with Iran to produce Iranian UAVs from inside Russia." Kirby said that the US was in possession of information that Russia was receiving materials from Iran which was required to build a drone manufacturing plant. This plant, said Kirby could be fully operational early next year. "We are releasing satellite imagery of the planned location of this UAV manufacturing plant in Russia’s Alabuga Special Economic Zone," he said. The US has previously sanctioned Iranian executives at a defence manufacturer over drone supplies to Russia. Iran has acknowledged sending drones to Russia but said in the past they were sent before Russia's February invasion. Moscow has denied its forces used Iranian drones in Ukraine. A White House official said Iran had transferred several hundred drones to Russia since August. Kirby said that support between Iran and Russia was both ways. Iran is seeking billions of dollars worth of military equipment from Russia. This includes helicopters and radars. "Russia has been offering Iran unprecedented defense cooperation, including on missiles, electronics, and air defense," he said. "This is a full-scale defense partnership that is harmful to Ukraine, to Iran’s neighbors, and to the international community. We are continuing to use all the tools at our disposal to expose and disrupt these activities including by sharing this with the public – and we are prepared to do more." Violation of UN rules Kirby said that drone transfer constituted violation of United Nations rules. He added that the US would seek to hold Russia and Iran accountable. In addition to the US, countries like Britain, France, Germany and Ukraine say that supply of Iran-made drones to Russia violates a 2015 U.N. Security Council resolution enshrining the Iran nuclear deal. Under the 2015 U.N. resolution, a conventional arms embargo on Iran was in place until October 2020. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iran supplied hundreds of drones to Russia for attack on Ukraine: White House

<p>The largest Western companies still operating in Russia recorded a combined net profit of 1.1 trillion rubles ($13.3 billion) in 2022, according to a report by Novaya Gazeta Europe, the leading independent Russian news website. This represents a significant increase of 54 per cent&nbsp;compared to the previous year.</p>

<p>The findings were based on the financial statements of Russian-registered legal entities that are either fully or partially owned by the western entities.</p>

<p>In terms of corporate income taxes, Western companies contributed a total of 288 billion rubles ($3.5 billion) to Russia's budget revenue last year, amounting to 1 per cent&nbsp;of the total. French, British, and US companies were the largest taxpayers, with contributions of 55 billion, 47 billion, and 40 billion rubles, respectively.</p>

<h2>Western business in Russia amid Ukraine war: The scale</h2>

<p>Ukrainian researchers estimate that there are over 1,300 Western companies currently active in Russia, The Moscow Times reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-affects-russian-energy-giant-gazproms-profits-net-profit-down-by-414-in-2022-595729">Ukraine war affects Russian energy giant Gazprom's profits; net profit down by 41.4% in 2022</a></strong></p>

<p>However, more than 700 of these companies have suspended their operations, and 241 have completely exited the country after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<h2>Western business in Russia amid Ukraine war: Top winners</h2>

<p>Despite withdrawing from certain assets, French energy group TotalEnergies managed to double its net profit to 269 billion rubles ($3.2 billion).</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint: Who is profiting from Russia-Ukraine war?</strong></p>

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<p>Raiffeisen Bank, one of the major Western banks still present in Russia, nearly quadrupled its net profit to 141 billion rubles ($1.7 billion).</p>

<p>Among the top ten earners in Russia are well-known companies such as PepsiCo, British Petroleum, Japan Tobacco, Mondelez International (formerly Kraft Foods), Mars, the packaging giant Mondi, Kia, and the multinational building materials company Knauf.</p>

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The largest Western companies still operating in Russia recorded a combined net profit of 1.1 trillion rubles ($13.3 billion) in 2022, according to a report by Novaya Gazeta Europe, the leading independent Russian news website.

The largest Western companies still operating in Russia recorded a combined net profit of 1.1 trillion rubles ($13.3 billion) in 2022, according to a report by Novaya Gazeta Europe, the leading independent Russian news website. This represents a significant increase of 54 per cent compared to the previous year. The findings were based on the financial statements of Russian-registered legal entities that are either fully or partially owned by the western entities. In terms of corporate income taxes, Western companies contributed a total of 288 billion rubles ($3.5 billion) to Russia's budget revenue last year, amounting to 1 per cent of the total. French, British, and US companies were the largest taxpayers, with contributions of 55 billion, 47 billion, and 40 billion rubles, respectively. Western business in Russia amid Ukraine war: The scale Ukrainian researchers estimate that there are over 1,300 Western companies currently active in Russia, The Moscow Times reported. Also read | Ukraine war affects Russian energy giant Gazprom's profits; net profit down by 41.4% in 2022 However, more than 700 of these companies have suspended their operations, and 241 have completely exited the country after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Western business in Russia amid Ukraine war: Top winners Despite withdrawing from certain assets, French energy group TotalEnergies managed to double its net profit to 269 billion rubles ($3.2 billion). Also watch | WION Fineprint: Who is profiting from Russia-Ukraine war? × Raiffeisen Bank, one of the major Western banks still present in Russia, nearly quadrupled its net profit to 141 billion rubles ($1.7 billion). Among the top ten earners in Russia are well-known companies such as PepsiCo, British Petroleum, Japan Tobacco, Mondelez International (formerly Kraft Foods), Mars, the packaging giant Mondi, Kia, and the multinational building materials company Knauf. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia earned billions in taxes after western companies made record profits amid Ukraine war

The water is Ukraine is bought between the Ukrainian soldiers and the Russian troops - there are no western boots on the ground but almost every bullet, artillery, shell, bomb and missile which is fired by the Ukrainians have been provided by the West.

Russia wants answers from US: Does US know how Kyiv is using their weapons? | World News | WION

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Sweden has said that it would allow NATO to use the bases of troops in its territory even before it joins the alliance. Swedish Prime Minister and Defense Minister said that a Swedish Armed Forces may undertake preparations with NATO and that the NATO countries will enable future joint operations. These preparations will consist of placing foreign equipment and personnel on Swedish territory on a temporary basis. Russia applied for NATO membership last year following Russia's invasion of Ukraine

Sweden: Will allow NATO to base troops in territory

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday released a statement saying that his country would send aid to Ukraine "within the next few hours" after the Kakhovka dam breach triggered floods forcing the people to spend the night on roofs and trees.</p>

<p>"France condemns this atrocious act, which is endangering populations. Within the next few hours, we will send aid to meet immediate needs," Macron wrote on Twitter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I expressed to President Zelensky my solidarity with the Ukrainian people after the attack on the Kakhovka dam. France condemns this atrocious act, which is endangering populations. Within the next few hours, we will send aid to meet immediate needs.</p>
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1666501130535182339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The announcement came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted to his French counterpart the urgent need to control the situation and handle the impact&nbsp;of the incident.</p>

<p>During the call with French President Emmanuel Macron, they "spoke about the current situation in Kherson region, the environmental and humanitarian consequences of the Russian act of terrorism, and outlined the urgent needs of Ukraine to eliminate the disaster", Zelensky said in a tweet. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I had a thorough phone call with the President of 🇫🇷 France <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>. Thanked him for the opportunity to participate in the Summit of the European Political Community and for support at the UN Security Council. Spoke about the current situation in Kherson region, the…</p>
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1666484256799858689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>People forced to spend the night on roofs, trees due to flooding</strong></h2>

<p>The destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam in Ukraine caused heavy flooding and people awaiting rescue in affected areas spent&nbsp;Tuesday night (June 6) on roofs or trees. The critical dam along the Dnipro River in Ukraine's Kherson region now held by Russia, collapsed on Tuesday. It is not yet clear who was responsible for the dam breach as both Kyiv&nbsp;and Moscow have been accusing each other.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Satellite images taken by Maxar Technologies showed houses and buildings submerged, with many showing only their roofs, and water taking over parks, land and infrastructure. And many such people slept on roofs and sat on trees, waiting to be rescued, the news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>42,000 people at direct risk from flooding: Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>The Ukrainian government estimated that around 42,000 people are at direct risk from flooding which is expected to peak on Wednesday, and hundreds and thousands would be left without access to drinking water.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the agriculture ministry said the disaster would cut off the water supply to 31 irrigation systems in the Ukrainian regions of Dnipro. The dam's destruction has left 94% of irrigation systems in Kherson, 74% of those in Zaporizhzhia, and 30% in Dnipro regions without water, the ministry added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-prime-minister-denys-shmyhal-calls-kakhovka-dam-destruction-environmental-catastrophe-601821">Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal calls Kakhovka dam destruction 'environmental catastrophe'</a></p>

<p>Residents in affected areas have started fleeing, carrying children on their shoulders, dogs in their arms, and belongings in plastic bags while rescuers used rubber boats to search areas where the waters reached above head height.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin reacts, calls Kakhovka dam attack 'barbaric act'</strong></h2>

<p>President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (June 7) called the attack on the Russian-occupied Kakhovka dam a "barbaric act", in his first public reaction to the situation. Moscow has already blamed Ukraine for the "catastrophic" attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The hydroelectric dam was ripped open early Tuesday after a reported blast and in the aftermath, Moscow and Kyiv have traded blame for the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kremlin said in a statement that Putin told Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan in a phone call that the breach was "a barbaric act which has led to a large-scale environmental and humanitarian catastrophe".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday released a statement saying that his country would send aid to Ukraine "within the next few hours" after the Kakhovka dam breach triggered floods forcing the people to spend the night on roofs and trees.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday released a statement saying that his country would send aid to Ukraine "within the next few hours" after the Kakhovka dam breach triggered floods forcing the people to spend the night on roofs and trees. "France condemns this atrocious act, which is endangering populations. Within the next few hours, we will send aid to meet immediate needs," Macron wrote on Twitter. I expressed to President Zelensky my solidarity with the Ukrainian people after the attack on the Kakhovka dam. France condemns this atrocious act, which is endangering populations. Within the next few hours, we will send aid to meet immediate needs. — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) June 7, 2023 × The announcement came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted to his French counterpart the urgent need to control the situation and handle the impact of the incident. During the call with French President Emmanuel Macron, they "spoke about the current situation in Kherson region, the environmental and humanitarian consequences of the Russian act of terrorism, and outlined the urgent needs of Ukraine to eliminate the disaster", Zelensky said in a tweet. I had a thorough phone call with the President of 🇫🇷 France @EmmanuelMacron. Thanked him for the opportunity to participate in the Summit of the European Political Community and for support at the UN Security Council. Spoke about the current situation in Kherson region, the… — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) June 7, 2023 × People forced to spend the night on roofs, trees due to flooding The destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam in Ukraine caused heavy flooding and people awaiting rescue in affected areas spent Tuesday night (June 6) on roofs or trees. The critical dam along the Dnipro River in Ukraine's Kherson region now held by Russia, collapsed on Tuesday. It is not yet clear who was responsible for the dam breach as both Kyiv and Moscow have been accusing each other. Satellite images taken by Maxar Technologies showed houses and buildings submerged, with many showing only their roofs, and water taking over parks, land and infrastructure. And many such people slept on roofs and sat on trees, waiting to be rescued, the news agency Reuters reported. 42,000 people at direct risk from flooding: Ukraine The Ukrainian government estimated that around 42,000 people are at direct risk from flooding which is expected to peak on Wednesday, and hundreds and thousands would be left without access to drinking water. In a statement, the agriculture ministry said the disaster would cut off the water supply to 31 irrigation systems in the Ukrainian regions of Dnipro. The dam's destruction has left 94% of irrigation systems in Kherson, 74% of those in Zaporizhzhia, and 30% in Dnipro regions without water, the ministry added. Also read: Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal calls Kakhovka dam destruction 'environmental catastrophe' Residents in affected areas have started fleeing, carrying children on their shoulders, dogs in their arms, and belongings in plastic bags while rescuers used rubber boats to search areas where the waters reached above head height. Putin reacts, calls Kakhovka dam attack 'barbaric act' President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (June 7) called the attack on the Russian-occupied Kakhovka dam a "barbaric act", in his first public reaction to the situation. Moscow has already blamed Ukraine for the "catastrophic" attack. The hydroelectric dam was ripped open early Tuesday after a reported blast and in the aftermath, Moscow and Kyiv have traded blame for the attack. The Kremlin said in a statement that Putin told Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan in a phone call that the breach was "a barbaric act which has led to a large-scale environmental and humanitarian catastrophe". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

French President Emmanuel Macron to send aid to Ukraine after Kakhovka dam breach

The Ka-Kho-Vka dam explosion has resulted in floods and widespread destruction, triggering a humanitarian crisis in the middle of a warzone. Now, it has unleashed a new threat stray, rogue landmines which were planted along the river bank have been washed away.

Putin calls Ukraine dam explosion 'a barbaric act' as threat of rogue landmines loom large

The British prime minister Rishi Sunak is in Washington DC. This is his first visit since becoming the United Kingdom's Prime Minister. The analysts are expecting his meeting with US President Joe Biden will include discussions on support for Ukraine and the United Kingdom's role in regulating artificial intelligence and also the US-UK military alliance.

UK PM Rishi Sunak to host first Global Summit on AI safety in US, meets Senate leaders

The collapse of Ukraine's Kakhovka dam sparks fears of an ecological catastrophe.

'Ukraine dam breach an environmental bomb' | WION Climate Tracker

<p>The White House said on Tuesday (June 6) that it cannot ‘conclusively’ say what was behind the destruction of a massive dam in Ukraine. However, White House Spokesman John Kirby said that reports that the blast was caused by Russia were being assessed. Russia has been in occupation of the dam since last year.</p>

<p>Kirby noted that the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro River may likely have caused "many deaths" and evacuation of thousands of Ukrainians. Dnipro River separates Russian and Ukrainian forces in southern Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia's rare acknowledgment of losses</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Kirby told reporters the damage could have a devastating impact on Ukraine's energy security.</p>

<p>"We've seen the reports that Russia was responsible for the explosion at the dam," he said. "We're doing the best we can to assess those reports, and we are working with the Ukrainians to gather more information, but we cannot say conclusively what happened."</p>

<p>Ukraine has accused Russia of blowing up the Nova Kakhovka dam. Meanwhile, the Kremlin has claimed that it was Ukraine that sabotaged the dam.</p>

<p>Kyiv said the destruction of the dam — seized by Russia in the early hours of the war — was an attempt by Moscow to hamper its long-awaited offensive, which Ukraine's leader stressed would not be affected.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-russia-ukraine-war-nova-kakhovka-dam-attack-what-we-know-so-far-601391">Explained | What we know so far about the Nova Kakhovka dam attack in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>Kirby opined that it was too soon to discuss the effect of the development on Ukraine's long-planned counteroffensive. He did stress that Russian forces were in illegal occupation of the dam and were in control of it when the blast took place. However, Kirby said that US officials had not determined whether the blast was an intentional act.</p>

<h2><strong>Destruction of dam a war crime?</strong></h2>

<p>Asked if the destruction of the dam would constitute a war crime, Kirby said international law forbade the destruction of civilian infrastructure.</p>

<p>He said US officials would continue to work with humanitarian partners on the ground to supply aid to those affected.</p>

<p>Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24 last year. After sustained territorial gains in the first few months of the war, the Russian forces had to retreat in the face of the Ukrainian counteroffensive. Large swathes of land were won back by Ukrainian forces. As much as the credit goes to the fortitude of the Ukrainian military, the massive international help has been seen as a major factor that affected the situation on the battlefield.</p>

<p>Western countries, led by the United States, have poured in millions and millions in humanitarian as well as military help. This has boosted the military capacity of Ukraine.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The White House said on Tuesday (June 6) that it cannot ‘conclusively’ say what was behind the destruction of a massive dam in Ukraine. However, White House Spokesman John Kirby said that reports that the blast was caused by Russia were being assessed.

The White House said on Tuesday (June 6) that it cannot ‘conclusively’ say what was behind the destruction of a massive dam in Ukraine. However, White House Spokesman John Kirby said that reports that the blast was caused by Russia were being assessed. Russia has been in occupation of the dam since last year. Kirby noted that the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro River may likely have caused "many deaths" and evacuation of thousands of Ukrainians. Dnipro River separates Russian and Ukrainian forces in southern Ukraine. Watch | Russia's rare acknowledgment of losses × Kirby told reporters the damage could have a devastating impact on Ukraine's energy security. "We've seen the reports that Russia was responsible for the explosion at the dam," he said. "We're doing the best we can to assess those reports, and we are working with the Ukrainians to gather more information, but we cannot say conclusively what happened." Ukraine has accused Russia of blowing up the Nova Kakhovka dam. Meanwhile, the Kremlin has claimed that it was Ukraine that sabotaged the dam. Kyiv said the destruction of the dam — seized by Russia in the early hours of the war — was an attempt by Moscow to hamper its long-awaited offensive, which Ukraine's leader stressed would not be affected. Also Read | Explained | What we know so far about the Nova Kakhovka dam attack in Ukraine Kirby opined that it was too soon to discuss the effect of the development on Ukraine's long-planned counteroffensive. He did stress that Russian forces were in illegal occupation of the dam and were in control of it when the blast took place. However, Kirby said that US officials had not determined whether the blast was an intentional act. Destruction of dam a war crime? Asked if the destruction of the dam would constitute a war crime, Kirby said international law forbade the destruction of civilian infrastructure. He said US officials would continue to work with humanitarian partners on the ground to supply aid to those affected. Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24 last year. After sustained territorial gains in the first few months of the war, the Russian forces had to retreat in the face of the Ukrainian counteroffensive. Large swathes of land were won back by Ukrainian forces. As much as the credit goes to the fortitude of the Ukrainian military, the massive international help has been seen as a major factor that affected the situation on the battlefield. Western countries, led by the United States, have poured in millions and millions in humanitarian as well as military help. This has boosted the military capacity of Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine dam explosion: US not sure but possibility of Russian role being assessed

A key dam in Kherson, on the banks of the Dnipro river. That's the latest casualty in the Russia-Ukraine war. The dam was blown up less than 24 hours ago and this has sent a torrent of floodwaters into the warzone. Here is a complete breakdown of the breach that has opened the floodgates of suffering and blame game.

Kherson dam explosion opens floodgates of blame game between Russia & Ukraine

<p>Kyiv called Russia a “terrorist state,” on Tuesday (June 6), at the top United Nations court at the hearing of Moscow’s alleged backing of pro-Russian separatists accused of shooting down an aircraft in 2014 over Ukraine which killed nearly 300 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The hearing about the 2014 case also came amid the ongoing conflict between the two countries and hours after the attack on the Soviet-era Nova Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro River in the Russia-occupied part of southern Ukraine with both Moscow and Kyiv blaming&nbsp;each other.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What was the hearing about?</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, the hearing at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) was the first time where Russian and Ukrainian lawyers faced each other since the beginning of what Moscow has called its “special military operation” in Ukraine. The case was filed by Kyiv in 2017 at the World Court against the&nbsp;Moscow-backed rebels and accused Russia of violating the UN anti-terrorism treaty. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The legal teams from both countries comprised&nbsp;dozens of representatives but on Tuesday only Ukraine presented arguments before a panel of 16 judges at the ICJ.&nbsp;Russia will get the opportunity to respond on Thursday. Ukraine will then respond on June 12 and Russia will present again two days later.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Kyiv, Moscow violated the UN conventions for financing terrorism and racial discrimination as it allegedly equipped and funded pro-Russian forces who shot down the Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17 over Ukraine killing all 298 passengers and crew on board.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777 plane&nbsp;was reportedly shot down by a Russian-made missile in July. Moscow&nbsp;has since denied these allegations. There was also violence that&nbsp;took place in 2014 in Ukraine when at least 13,000 people were killed when pro-European Union protesters overthrew Kyiv’s Moscow-allied government. It was not soon after that Russia had forcibly annexed Crimea.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian representatives call Russia ‘terrorist state’</strong></h2>

<p>In his opening remarks, Ukrainian Ambassador-at-Large Anton Korynevych spoke about the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam which Kyiv has blamed Moscow for. “Russia cannot defeat us on the battlefield, so it targets civilian infrastructure to try to freeze us into submission,” said the Ukrainian diplomat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Russia’s actions are the actions of a terrorist state, an aggressor. But such actions did not appear out of the blue. They are the tragic but logical outcome of the situation we brought to this court’s attention back in 2017,”&nbsp;he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian diplomat reiterating statements from officials in Kyiv, said, “Just today, Russia blew up a major dam…causing significant civilian evacuations, ecological damage and threatening the safety of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.”</p>

<p>Ukraine has also called on the Hague-based court to order Russia to stop discrimination against the Tatar ethnic group in Crimea. Korynevych also said that Russia’s “contempt for international law didn't start in 2022” but when it annexed Crimea in 2014, adding that Moscow then “engaged in a campaign of cultural erasure, taking aim at ethnic Ukrainians and Crimean Tatars.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Russia is now “trying to wipe us from the map” with the ongoing invasion, said the Ukrainian lawyer. Moscow&nbsp;has denied the claims of systematic human rights abuses in the Ukrainian territory that it controls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian lawyers also spoke about the Dutch court verdict in November that convicted two Russians and a Ukrainian separatist to life in absentia over the shooting of MH17 and their role. The court also found Russia had “overall control” over the separatist forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian lawyers said that the Russian officials were “guilty of terrorism financing” as they supplied the missile knowing it would be used to shoot down an aircraft. Ukrainian lawyer Marney Cheek also said how Moscow also supplied rebels with rocket systems that were used in a “reign of terror” on civilians in 2015.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“What did Russia do to prevent and suppress this financing of terrorism? Nothing,” the lawyer added.<br />
<br />
Notably, Russia has previously tried to get the case filed by Ukraine&nbsp;thrown out saying that the International Criminal Court (ICC) does not have jurisdiction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2022, after Russia began its invasion of Ukraine, Kyiv filed a separate case which accused Moscow of planning genocide. This led the ICJ to order a suspension of the invasion. The ICC also issued a warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin in March, on war crimes over forced deportations of Ukrainian children.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Kyiv called Russia a “terrorist state,” on Tuesday (June 6), at the top United Nations court at the hearing of Moscow’s alleged backing of pro-Russian separatists accused of shooting down an aircraft in 2014 over Ukraine which killed nearly 300 people.

Kyiv called Russia a “terrorist state,” on Tuesday (June 6), at the top United Nations court at the hearing of Moscow’s alleged backing of pro-Russian separatists accused of shooting down an aircraft in 2014 over Ukraine which killed nearly 300 people. The hearing about the 2014 case also came amid the ongoing conflict between the two countries and hours after the attack on the Soviet-era Nova Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro River in the Russia-occupied part of southern Ukraine with both Moscow and Kyiv blaming each other. What was the hearing about? Notably, the hearing at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) was the first time where Russian and Ukrainian lawyers faced each other since the beginning of what Moscow has called its “special military operation” in Ukraine. The case was filed by Kyiv in 2017 at the World Court against the Moscow-backed rebels and accused Russia of violating the UN anti-terrorism treaty. The legal teams from both countries comprised dozens of representatives but on Tuesday only Ukraine presented arguments before a panel of 16 judges at the ICJ. Russia will get the opportunity to respond on Thursday. Ukraine will then respond on June 12 and Russia will present again two days later. According to Kyiv, Moscow violated the UN conventions for financing terrorism and racial discrimination as it allegedly equipped and funded pro-Russian forces who shot down the Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17 over Ukraine killing all 298 passengers and crew on board. The Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777 plane was reportedly shot down by a Russian-made missile in July. Moscow has since denied these allegations. There was also violence that took place in 2014 in Ukraine when at least 13,000 people were killed when pro-European Union protesters overthrew Kyiv’s Moscow-allied government. It was not soon after that Russia had forcibly annexed Crimea. Ukrainian representatives call Russia ‘terrorist state’ In his opening remarks, Ukrainian Ambassador-at-Large Anton Korynevych spoke about the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam which Kyiv has blamed Moscow for. “Russia cannot defeat us on the battlefield, so it targets civilian infrastructure to try to freeze us into submission,” said the Ukrainian diplomat. “Russia’s actions are the actions of a terrorist state, an aggressor. But such actions did not appear out of the blue. They are the tragic but logical outcome of the situation we brought to this court’s attention back in 2017,” he added. The Ukrainian diplomat reiterating statements from officials in Kyiv, said, “Just today, Russia blew up a major dam…causing significant civilian evacuations, ecological damage and threatening the safety of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.” Ukraine has also called on the Hague-based court to order Russia to stop discrimination against the Tatar ethnic group in Crimea. Korynevych also said that Russia’s “contempt for international law didn't start in 2022” but when it annexed Crimea in 2014, adding that Moscow then “engaged in a campaign of cultural erasure, taking aim at ethnic Ukrainians and Crimean Tatars.” However, Russia is now “trying to wipe us from the map” with the ongoing invasion, said the Ukrainian lawyer. Moscow has denied the claims of systematic human rights abuses in the Ukrainian territory that it controls. The Ukrainian lawyers also spoke about the Dutch court verdict in November that convicted two Russians and a Ukrainian separatist to life in absentia over the shooting of MH17 and their role. The court also found Russia had “overall control” over the separatist forces. Ukrainian lawyers said that the Russian officials were “guilty of terrorism financing” as they supplied the missile knowing it would be used to shoot down an aircraft. Ukrainian lawyer Marney Cheek also said how Moscow also supplied rebels with rocket systems that were used in a “reign of terror” on civilians in 2015. “What did Russia do to prevent and suppress this financing of terrorism? Nothing,” the lawyer added. Notably, Russia has previously tried to get the case filed by Ukraine thrown out saying that the International Criminal Court (ICC) does not have jurisdiction. In 2022, after Russia began its invasion of Ukraine, Kyiv filed a separate case which accused Moscow of planning genocide. This led the ICJ to order a suspension of the invasion. The ICC also issued a warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin in March, on war crimes over forced deportations of Ukrainian children. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Terrorist state’: Ukraine slams Russia at International Court of Justice hearing

<p>The US knew of a Ukrainian plan to attack the Nord Stream pipelines as early as three months before underwater explosions damaged them, claimed the Washington Post in a report. The news outlet cited leaked information posted online. The report said that America's Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) learned in June last year that a Ukrainian special operations force consisting of six people intended to blow up the pipelines.</p>

<p>Nord Stream pipelines carry natural gas from Russia to Germany through the Baltic Sea. In the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the pipelines and the subsequent explosions had assumed great political importance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The intelligence cited by the Washington Post was reportedly shared on chat platform Discord, allegedly by Air National Guard member Jack Teixeira, who was arrested for the leak of classified documents.</p>

<p>Teixeira was recently charged for leaking sensitive US documents. The Post said that it got a copy from one of Teixeira's online friends. The intelligence report was based on information obtained from an individual in Ukraine. The newspaper said that the CIA shared it with Germany and other European countries in June 2022.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia's rare acknowledgment of losses</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Post said officials in multiple countries had confirmed that the intelligence summary posted on Discord accurately stated what the European service told the CIA.</p>

<p>The report in the Washington Post said that the newspaper was withholding the name of the European intelligence agency as well as some aspects of the alleged plan after a request from government officials.</p>

<p>Reuters said that the CIA and White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nord Stream 1 and the newly built Nord Stream 2 pipelines were ruptured after several undersea explosions took place last year in September. The explosions occurred in the economic zones of Sweden and Denmark.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-russia-ukraine-war-nova-kakhovka-dam-attack-what-we-know-so-far-601391">Explained | What we know so far about the Nova Kakhovka dam attack in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>Both nations have said that the explosions were deliberate. However, it is yet to be clearly determined who was responsible. The two countries are investigating the incident along with Germany.</p>

<h2><strong>The situation last year</strong></h2>

<p>Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. As the Western countries led by the US imposed harsh economic sanctions on Russia, the latter responded by leveraging its position as the major energy supplier of Europe. Russia even halted energy supplies, partially in some cases, which sent fuel prices skywards globally. It was feared that Europe and particularly Ukraine would face extremely harsh conditions due to energy shortage and approaching winter in the latter part of the year.</p>

<p>The explosions rupturing Nord Stream pipelines hence came into quick international focus and both sides accused the other of doing the deed in order to play politics over it.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The US knew of a Ukrainian plan to attack the Nord Stream pipelines as early as three months before underwater explosions damaged them, claimed the Washington Post in a report.

The US knew of a Ukrainian plan to attack the Nord Stream pipelines as early as three months before underwater explosions damaged them, claimed the Washington Post in a report. The news outlet cited leaked information posted online. The report said that America's Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) learned in June last year that a Ukrainian special operations force consisting of six people intended to blow up the pipelines. Nord Stream pipelines carry natural gas from Russia to Germany through the Baltic Sea. In the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the pipelines and the subsequent explosions had assumed great political importance. The intelligence cited by the Washington Post was reportedly shared on chat platform Discord, allegedly by Air National Guard member Jack Teixeira, who was arrested for the leak of classified documents. Teixeira was recently charged for leaking sensitive US documents. The Post said that it got a copy from one of Teixeira's online friends. The intelligence report was based on information obtained from an individual in Ukraine. The newspaper said that the CIA shared it with Germany and other European countries in June 2022. Watch | Russia's rare acknowledgment of losses × The Post said officials in multiple countries had confirmed that the intelligence summary posted on Discord accurately stated what the European service told the CIA. The report in the Washington Post said that the newspaper was withholding the name of the European intelligence agency as well as some aspects of the alleged plan after a request from government officials. Reuters said that the CIA and White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Nord Stream 1 and the newly built Nord Stream 2 pipelines were ruptured after several undersea explosions took place last year in September. The explosions occurred in the economic zones of Sweden and Denmark. Also Read | Explained | What we know so far about the Nova Kakhovka dam attack in Ukraine Both nations have said that the explosions were deliberate. However, it is yet to be clearly determined who was responsible. The two countries are investigating the incident along with Germany. The situation last year Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. As the Western countries led by the US imposed harsh economic sanctions on Russia, the latter responded by leveraging its position as the major energy supplier of Europe. Russia even halted energy supplies, partially in some cases, which sent fuel prices skywards globally. It was feared that Europe and particularly Ukraine would face extremely harsh conditions due to energy shortage and approaching winter in the latter part of the year. The explosions rupturing Nord Stream pipelines hence came into quick international focus and both sides accused the other of doing the deed in order to play politics over it. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US knew of Ukrainian plan to blow up Nord Stream three months before blasts: Report

Months after launching an investigation, the world still does not have a concrete answer to the question - Who was behind the Nord Stream blast? But a Washington Post now claimed that the attack was carried out by a group of special Ukrainian servicemen.

US intelligence CIA was aware months before blasts, says report

Volodymyr Zelensky has praised Ukrainian troops for advances claimed near the devastated city of Bakhmut. On the other hand, Russia says it repelled a large-scale attack. The contrasting claims come at a time as Pope Francis's peace envoy arrived in Kyiv for two days of talks. Remember, in May, Russia said it seized the now-destroyed eastern Ukrainian city, the scene of the longest and one of the bloodiest battles of the war.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine claims advances near Bakhmut, Moscow says 'Large-scale attack repelled'

The nature of the Ukraine war has undergone some dramatic changes. As part of its strategy to fight back , Ukraine is doing the one thing that the West had been squeamish about. There has been a spate of cross-border, ground and drone attacks deep inside the Russian territory. Ukraine appears to be implementing the old adage: that the best defense is a good offense. So how successful has Kyiv been in pushing back the Russian forces? And how is Russia planning to blunt the Ukrainian counteroffensive, with the use of Western weapons? Mohammed Saleh explores.

Ukraine's counteroffensive takes the battle inside Russia | World at War

<p>A vast Soviet-era dam in the Russian-controlled part of southern Ukraine was destroyed on Tuesday. According to both the Ukrainian and the Russian forces, the destruction has unleashed a flood of water across the war zone. The destruction of the major dam has flooded nearby regions, prompting Ukraine to evacuate&nbsp;16,000&nbsp;residents from the 'critical zone'.</p>

<p>The two sides have blamed each other for destroying the dam.</p>

<p>Unverified visuals on social media show the reservoir "emptying into the Dnipro" river after a series of intense explosions around the Kakhovka Dam. Other videos show water surging through the remains of the dam, with bystanders expressing their shock, sometimes in strong language.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A multi-hundred foot chunk of the Nova Kakhovka dam is gone, the Kakhovka Reservoir is quickly emptying out into the Dnipro. <a href="https://t.co/265i1nbvAO">pic.twitter.com/265i1nbvAO</a></p>
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<p>Ukraine's military claims that the Russian forces were behind the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam.</p>

<p>"The Kakhovka (dam) was blown up by the Russian occupying forces," said the South command of Ukraine's Armed Forces on its Facebook page.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-strategy-will-cause-significant-defeats-near-bakhmut-warns-wagner-boss-601035">Russian strategy will cause 'significant' defeats near Bakhmut, warns Wagner boss</a></strong></p>

<p>The scale of the destruction, the speed and volumes of water, and the likely areas of inundation are being clarified."</p>

<p>However, Russian news agencies said that the dam was destroyed by shelling. The mayor of Russia-controlled Nova Kakhovka city, as per Reuters, has blamed "an act of terrorism"&nbsp;which apparently is a Russian code for a Ukrainian attack.</p>

<h2><strong>Nuclear danger</strong></h2>

<p>As per a report by Russia's TASS agency citing Moscow-backed officials in the Zaporizhzhia region, there was no "critical danger" to the Russia-controlled Zaporizhzhia facility.</p>

<p>However, the Russia-installed head of the Kherson region said that the water could reach critical levels in five hours and that evacuation has begun in nearby areas.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky's emergency meeting&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will hold an emergency meeting over the Nova Kakhovka dam blast. The information was shared on Twitter by Oleksiy Danilov, secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defence Council.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyiv-conducting-offensive-actions-russia-says-it-thwarts-major-attack-in-ukraine-601010">Kyiv conducting 'offensive' actions, Russia 'thwarts major attack' in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Significance of Nova Kakhovka dam</strong></h2>

<p>The dam, which is 30 metres tall and 3.2 kilometres (around two miles) long, was built in 1956 on the Dnipro River.</p>

<p>It holds significant amounts of water. As per Reuters, it holds water equivalent to the Great Salt Lake in the US state of Utah.</p>

<p>The Nova Kakhovka Dam supplies water to Crimea, a region annexed by Russia in 2014 and to Europe's largest nuclear plant, the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which is also under Russian control.</p>

<p><em><strong>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;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A vast Soviet-era dam in the Russian-controlled part of southern Ukraine was destroyed on Tuesday. According to both the Ukrainian and the Russian forces, the destruction has unleashed a flood of water across the war zone.

A vast Soviet-era dam in the Russian-controlled part of southern Ukraine was destroyed on Tuesday. According to both the Ukrainian and the Russian forces, the destruction has unleashed a flood of water across the war zone. The destruction of the major dam has flooded nearby regions, prompting Ukraine to evacuate 16,000 residents from the 'critical zone'. The two sides have blamed each other for destroying the dam. Unverified visuals on social media show the reservoir "emptying into the Dnipro" river after a series of intense explosions around the Kakhovka Dam. Other videos show water surging through the remains of the dam, with bystanders expressing their shock, sometimes in strong language. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. A multi-hundred foot chunk of the Nova Kakhovka dam is gone, the Kakhovka Reservoir is quickly emptying out into the Dnipro. pic.twitter.com/265i1nbvAO — OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) June 6, 2023 × Ukraine's military claims that the Russian forces were behind the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam. "The Kakhovka (dam) was blown up by the Russian occupying forces," said the South command of Ukraine's Armed Forces on its Facebook page. Also read | Russian strategy will cause 'significant' defeats near Bakhmut, warns Wagner boss The scale of the destruction, the speed and volumes of water, and the likely areas of inundation are being clarified." However, Russian news agencies said that the dam was destroyed by shelling. The mayor of Russia-controlled Nova Kakhovka city, as per Reuters, has blamed "an act of terrorism" which apparently is a Russian code for a Ukrainian attack. Nuclear danger As per a report by Russia's TASS agency citing Moscow-backed officials in the Zaporizhzhia region, there was no "critical danger" to the Russia-controlled Zaporizhzhia facility. However, the Russia-installed head of the Kherson region said that the water could reach critical levels in five hours and that evacuation has begun in nearby areas. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky's emergency meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will hold an emergency meeting over the Nova Kakhovka dam blast. The information was shared on Twitter by Oleksiy Danilov, secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defence Council. Also read | Kyiv conducting 'offensive' actions, Russia 'thwarts major attack' in Ukraine Significance of Nova Kakhovka dam The dam, which is 30 metres tall and 3.2 kilometres (around two miles) long, was built in 1956 on the Dnipro River. It holds significant amounts of water. As per Reuters, it holds water equivalent to the Great Salt Lake in the US state of Utah. The Nova Kakhovka Dam supplies water to Crimea, a region annexed by Russia in 2014 and to Europe's largest nuclear plant, the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which is also under Russian control. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine dam supplying nuke plant, Crimea breached in blast, thousands evacuate amid flooding fears

<p>A Russian military officer has been detained by the Wagner group after he allegedly opened fire on a Russian mercenary vehicle.&nbsp;</p>

<p><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p dir="ltr">According to reports, the incident took place on Monday while the officer was drunk. It is said that he dislikes Wagner and he shot at them out of spite.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">Even though both groups fight on the same side, there have been several episodes of animosity between the Russian troops and the mercenary fighters. The Wagner group is currently fighting in Bakhmut.</p>

<p dir="ltr">A video posted on the Telegram channel of Wagner chief Prigozhin's press office stated that they have detained the commander of the Russian army’s 72nd brigade, Politico reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">In the clip, he can be seen confessing that he gave the order to fire on the mercenaries’ vehicle and that he was drunk at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">The officer introduced himself as Lieutenant-Colonel Roman Gennadievich Venivitin, who appeared to have been roughed up by his captors.</p>

<h2><strong>Wagner group boss: Ukrainians have made gains near Bakhmut</strong></h2>

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<p dir="ltr">In the video, the officer further claims that 10 to 12 of his subordinates disarmed a group of Wagner fighters, although it wasn’t clear if this was part of the same incident.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Asked why he doesn't like the Wagner group, he replied that he "doesn't know".</p>

<p dir="ltr">The Wagner statement mentioned neither casualties nor injuries, but it said that a service truck was destroyed.&nbsp;</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Tensions grow&nbsp;between Wagner and Russian troops</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">Shortly before the video was released, Prigozhin published a report claiming that groups connected to Russia's defence ministry had planted explosives on the roads out of Bakhmut, which Wagner fighters were using to pull out of the city.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Earlier, the group's boss said the Russian army had mined the roads Wagner used to leave the city of Bakhmut.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The latest escalation comes a day after Prigozhin criticised Russia's military leadership, claiming that the Russian army had lost control of some of its positions around Bakhmut, describing it as a "disgrace".</p>

<p dir="ltr">He appealed to Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and the chief of the general staff, Valery Gerasimov, to travel to the frontline and rally the troops, who he claimed were quietly retreating.</p>

<p dir="ltr">"You can do it! And if you can't, you'll die heroes," he said.</p>

<p dir="ltr">After months of protracted war, Wagner claimed to have seized Bakhmut city. Two weeks ago, they handed over their positions to the Russian military.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A Russian military officer has been detained by the Wagner group after he allegedly opened fire on a Russian mercenary vehicle. According to reports, the incident took place on Monday while the officer was drunk.

A Russian military officer has been detained by the Wagner group after he allegedly opened fire on a Russian mercenary vehicle. According to reports, the incident took place on Monday while the officer was drunk. It is said that he dislikes Wagner and he shot at them out of spite. Even though both groups fight on the same side, there have been several episodes of animosity between the Russian troops and the mercenary fighters. The Wagner group is currently fighting in Bakhmut. A video posted on the Telegram channel of Wagner chief Prigozhin's press office stated that they have detained the commander of the Russian army’s 72nd brigade, Politico reported. In the clip, he can be seen confessing that he gave the order to fire on the mercenaries’ vehicle and that he was drunk at the time. The officer introduced himself as Lieutenant-Colonel Roman Gennadievich Venivitin, who appeared to have been roughed up by his captors. Wagner group boss: Ukrainians have made gains near Bakhmut In the video, the officer further claims that 10 to 12 of his subordinates disarmed a group of Wagner fighters, although it wasn’t clear if this was part of the same incident. Asked why he doesn't like the Wagner group, he replied that he "doesn't know". The Wagner statement mentioned neither casualties nor injuries, but it said that a service truck was destroyed. Tensions grow between Wagner and Russian troops Shortly before the video was released, Prigozhin published a report claiming that groups connected to Russia's defence ministry had planted explosives on the roads out of Bakhmut, which Wagner fighters were using to pull out of the city. Earlier, the group's boss said the Russian army had mined the roads Wagner used to leave the city of Bakhmut. The latest escalation comes a day after Prigozhin criticised Russia's military leadership, claiming that the Russian army had lost control of some of its positions around Bakhmut, describing it as a "disgrace". He appealed to Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and the chief of the general staff, Valery Gerasimov, to travel to the frontline and rally the troops, who he claimed were quietly retreating. "You can do it! And if you can't, you'll die heroes," he said. After months of protracted war, Wagner claimed to have seized Bakhmut city. Two weeks ago, they handed over their positions to the Russian military. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Mercenary Wagner group detains Russian military officer for opening fire at them

Russia claims to have thwarted a large-scale Ukrainian offensive in the Donetsk region. Was this the much-touted Ukrainian counter-offensive? Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Has Russia thwarted Ukraine's counter-offensive?

<p>On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin in a televised address declared martial law and ordered full-scale mobilisation of troops for an all-out war against Ukraine. He further urged citizens living in the border areas to evacuate and seek safety inside Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p dir="ltr">This speech was broadcast in Belgorod, Voronezh, and Rostov—the Russian cities that lie in close proximity to Ukraine’s border—with the caption running, "President's emergency appeal."</p>

<p dir="ltr">“Today, at 4 am this morning, Ukrainian forces … with the support of Washington, entered the territory of Kursk, Belgorod and Bryansk regions,” the broadcast said, announcing a mass call-up of eligible men to “defeat the dangerous and perfidious enemy.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a>, several radio stations and even local TV networks appear to have been hacked to broadcast a deep fake address allegedly by president Putin.<br />
<br />
This fake address announced mass mobilisation and introduced martial law in border regions.<br />
<br />
1/2<a href="https://t.co/Z79Jqjil6W">pic.twitter.com/Z79Jqjil6W</a></p>
— Alex Kokcharov (@AlexKokcharov) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlexKokcharov/status/1665709387648827397?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>However, something was off.</p>

<p>The way the 70-year-old’s face moved and the deep lines in his furrowed brow disappeared too smoothly as he changed his expression, was too conspicuous to ignore.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">It was later clarified by Kremlin officials that the Russian president gave no such speech and that it was apparently a deep fake video created allegedly by hackers.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Are hackers responsible?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p dir="ltr">Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov later confirmed to state-run TASS news agency that the video aired was a deep fake, adding there was no state media address made by Putin on Monday. He said that some hackers were responsible for this, but did not provide further information about them.</p>

<p dir="ltr">“There was a hack in some regions. In particular, I know that there was a hack on Mir radio and in some networks,” Peskov said.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">The government has taken control of the affected networks, and is “sorting out” the situation, he added. Those responsible for the hack have yet to be identified.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">Notably, the apparent cyberattack comes following increased Ukrainian attacks at multiple locations at the front lines on Monday. US satellites also detected movements and more activity from Ukraine's forces, The New York Times reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">There were also reports of cross-border raids by pro-Ukrainian fighters under the banner of the Legion of Free Russia and the Russian Volunteer Corps, said to be Russian citizens intent on fighting against Putin’s rule.&nbsp;</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Increased Ukrainian attacks&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">On Sunday, one of the groups said it had taken dozens of prisoners during one such incursion and would exchange them for captured Ukrainian soldiers.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar on Monday said that the country’s troops are&nbsp; “shifting to offensive actions” along some parts of the front line.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">The commander of Kyiv’s ground forces, General Oleksandr Syrskyi, also said that his units were “moving forward” towards the contested city of Bakhmut.</p>

<p dir="ltr">(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong><em>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.</em></strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin in a televised address declared martial law and ordered full-scale mobilisation of troops for an all-out war against Ukraine.

On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin in a televised address declared martial law and ordered full-scale mobilisation of troops for an all-out war against Ukraine. He further urged citizens living in the border areas to evacuate and seek safety inside Russia. This speech was broadcast in Belgorod, Voronezh, and Rostov—the Russian cities that lie in close proximity to Ukraine’s border—with the caption running, "President's emergency appeal." “Today, at 4 am this morning, Ukrainian forces … with the support of Washington, entered the territory of Kursk, Belgorod and Bryansk regions,” the broadcast said, announcing a mass call-up of eligible men to “defeat the dangerous and perfidious enemy.” In #Russia, several radio stations and even local TV networks appear to have been hacked to broadcast a deep fake address allegedly by president Putin. This fake address announced mass mobilisation and introduced martial law in border regions. 1/2pic.twitter.com/Z79Jqjil6W — Alex Kokcharov (@AlexKokcharov) June 5, 2023 × However, something was off. The way the 70-year-old’s face moved and the deep lines in his furrowed brow disappeared too smoothly as he changed his expression, was too conspicuous to ignore. It was later clarified by Kremlin officials that the Russian president gave no such speech and that it was apparently a deep fake video created allegedly by hackers. Are hackers responsible? Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov later confirmed to state-run TASS news agency that the video aired was a deep fake, adding there was no state media address made by Putin on Monday. He said that some hackers were responsible for this, but did not provide further information about them. “There was a hack in some regions. In particular, I know that there was a hack on Mir radio and in some networks,” Peskov said. The government has taken control of the affected networks, and is “sorting out” the situation, he added. Those responsible for the hack have yet to be identified. Notably, the apparent cyberattack comes following increased Ukrainian attacks at multiple locations at the front lines on Monday. US satellites also detected movements and more activity from Ukraine's forces, The New York Times reported. There were also reports of cross-border raids by pro-Ukrainian fighters under the banner of the Legion of Free Russia and the Russian Volunteer Corps, said to be Russian citizens intent on fighting against Putin’s rule. Increased Ukrainian attacks On Sunday, one of the groups said it had taken dozens of prisoners during one such incursion and would exchange them for captured Ukrainian soldiers. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar on Monday said that the country’s troops are “shifting to offensive actions” along some parts of the front line. The commander of Kyiv’s ground forces, General Oleksandr Syrskyi, also said that his units were “moving forward” towards the contested city of Bakhmut. (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Fake video of Vladimir Putin announcing full-scale war against Ukraine broadcast on Russian TV

Intense cross-border shelling between Ukraine and Russia continues into the 16th month of the war. Ukraine force of Russian partisan has now infiltrated a Russian city and captured multiple Russian soldiers.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia 'thwarts' Ukrainian assault on Donetsk | World News | WION

<p data-testid="paragraph-0">Russia said on Monday (June 5) that its forces managed to thwart a major Ukrainian offensive at five points along the Donetsk region and killed hundreds of pro-Kyiv troops. Russia's defence in the Donetsk region at the time of this Ukrainian attack was led by&nbsp;Russian Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov himself.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-0">It is yet not clear if the troops at the Ukrainian side consisted of&nbsp;the regular forces or some anti-Russia militant group.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-0">The supposed attack is deemed a part of Ukraine's counteroffensive which President Zelensky had been promising since months to recapture the territory lost in the war.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-0"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-appeals-residents-to-evacuate-border-district-amid-ukraine-shelling-600363">New fighting on Russian side of Ukraine border, says governor</a></strong></p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-0">Russia's defence ministry said Ukraine had attacked with six mechanised and two tank battalions in southern Donetsk, where Moscow has long suspected Ukraine would seek to drive a wedge through Russian-controlled territory.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3">"On the morning of June 4, the enemy launched a large-scale offensive in five sectors of the front in the South Donetsk direction," the defence ministry said in a statement posted on Telegram.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-4">"The enemy's goal was to break through our defences in the most vulnerable, in its opinion, sector of the front," it said. "The enemy did not achieve its tasks, it had no success."</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-4"><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Russian authorities ask villagers to evacuate border villages</strong></p>

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<p data-testid="paragraph-0">Meanwhile, a pro-Ukraine group of Russian partisans on Sunday said it had captured several Russian soldiers during a cross-border raid and would hand them over to Ukrainian authorities.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-1">The Russian Volunteer Corps made the claim in a video statement released on Telegram. The brief clip showed what appeared to be around a dozen Russian soldiers being held captive, with two lying on hospital beds.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-2">The group said earlier it had taken two soldiers prisoner.</p>

<p>Earlier, Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov published a cryptic message on Twitter on Sunday, quoting Depeche Mode's song "Enjoy the Silence".</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-7">"Words are very unnecessary. They can only do harm," his tweet said.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-10">Russian forces killed 250 Ukrainian troops as well as destroying 16 tanks, three infantry&nbsp;fighting vehicles and 21 armoured combat vehicles, the ministry said.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-11">Russian Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov, who is in charge of Moscow's military operation in Ukraine, was in the area of the Ukrainian attack, the ministry said.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-12">"(Gerasimov) was at one of the advanced command posts," the ministry said.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-12">Sixteen months into the war, Russia now controls at least 18 per cent&nbsp;of what is internationally recognised to be Ukrainian territory, and has claimed four regions of Ukraine as Russian territory.</p>

<p><em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>

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Russia said on Monday (June 5) that its forces managed to thwart a major Ukrainian offensive at five points along the Donetsk region and killed hundreds of pro-Kyiv troops.

Russia said on Monday (June 5) that its forces managed to thwart a major Ukrainian offensive at five points along the Donetsk region and killed hundreds of pro-Kyiv troops. Russia's defence in the Donetsk region at the time of this Ukrainian attack was led by Russian Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov himself. It is yet not clear if the troops at the Ukrainian side consisted of the regular forces or some anti-Russia militant group. The supposed attack is deemed a part of Ukraine's counteroffensive which President Zelensky had been promising since months to recapture the territory lost in the war. Also read | New fighting on Russian side of Ukraine border, says governor Russia's defence ministry said Ukraine had attacked with six mechanised and two tank battalions in southern Donetsk, where Moscow has long suspected Ukraine would seek to drive a wedge through Russian-controlled territory. "On the morning of June 4, the enemy launched a large-scale offensive in five sectors of the front in the South Donetsk direction," the defence ministry said in a statement posted on Telegram. "The enemy's goal was to break through our defences in the most vulnerable, in its opinion, sector of the front," it said. "The enemy did not achieve its tasks, it had no success." Also watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Russian authorities ask villagers to evacuate border villages × Meanwhile, a pro-Ukraine group of Russian partisans on Sunday said it had captured several Russian soldiers during a cross-border raid and would hand them over to Ukrainian authorities. The Russian Volunteer Corps made the claim in a video statement released on Telegram. The brief clip showed what appeared to be around a dozen Russian soldiers being held captive, with two lying on hospital beds. The group said earlier it had taken two soldiers prisoner. Earlier, Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov published a cryptic message on Twitter on Sunday, quoting Depeche Mode's song "Enjoy the Silence". "Words are very unnecessary. They can only do harm," his tweet said. Russian forces killed 250 Ukrainian troops as well as destroying 16 tanks, three infantry fighting vehicles and 21 armoured combat vehicles, the ministry said. Russian Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov, who is in charge of Moscow's military operation in Ukraine, was in the area of the Ukrainian attack, the ministry said. "(Gerasimov) was at one of the advanced command posts," the ministry said. Sixteen months into the war, Russia now controls at least 18 per cent of what is internationally recognised to be Ukrainian territory, and has claimed four regions of Ukraine as Russian territory. 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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zelensky's counteroffensive crashing? Russia says it killed hundreds of Ukrainian troops in Donetsk region

<p>As the Ukraine war shows no signs of abetting and nears 500 days of conflict, the situation inside Russia remains stifling. In the latest move to stifle opposition, Russia arrested more than 100 supporters of opposition leader and Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny on Sunday. The people, as per a protest monitoring group, had taken to the streets to mark the 47th birthday of their jailed leader.</p>

<h2><strong>The arrests</strong></h2>

<p>In its statement, the monitoring group OVD-Info said that people have been detained in 23 cities across Russia. The number of individuals arrested as of 10:42 pm Moscow time (1942 GMT) stood at 109.</p>

<p>Reuters reports that footage from Russia's two largest cities Moscow and St Petersburg shows police arresting individual protestors. In most cities, "only a handful" of individuals have been detained.</p>

<p>In one clip, a man could be seen holding up a protest sign briefly, before police usher him away, "bent over, as he groaned in pain".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-appeals-residents-to-evacuate-border-district-amid-ukraine-shelling-600363">New fighting on Russian side of Ukraine border, says governor</a></strong></p>

<p>Reportedly, another man in Moscow, who held up a sign that said "Free Navalny" in English, was also arrested among many others.</p>

<p>In St Petersburg, authorities arrested a woman who was accompanied by her "underage child".<br />
Talking to reporters, the woman said: "I'm against the war, that's why they detained me with my underage kid."</p>

<h2><strong>A repeating pattern?</strong></h2>

<p>Ever since the Russia-Ukraine war began with Russian President Vladimir Putin's announcement of a "special military operation" on February 24th, 2022, authorities in Moscow have clamped down heavily on any signs of dissent.</p>

<p>Taking the crackdown on freedom to a new level, as per AFP, Russia has shut down independent media. Most key opposition figures are in exile or, like Alexei Navalny, are behind bars.</p>

<h2><strong>Navalny from behind the bars</strong></h2>

<p>Citing the Kremlin critic, AFP reports that Navalny on Sunday professed that despite tougher prison conditions and yet another spell of solitary confinement, he is "in a good mood". Navalny is currently serving a nine-year prison sentence on embezzlement and other charges. He will soon go on trial in a new "extremism" case in which he&nbsp;faces a further 35 years in prison.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alexei Navalny&nbsp;is convinced that the authorities are trying to keep him imprisoned for the rest of his life.</p>

<p>"On the morning of your birthday you have to be honest with yourself, so I ask myself the question: am I really in a good mood, or do force myself to feel that way?</p>

<p>"My answer is: I really am. Let's face it, of course I wish I didn't have to wake up in this hellhole and instead have breakfast with my family, receive kisses on the cheek from my children, unwrap presents..."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/navalny-says-he-faces-30-more-years-in-prison-in-absurd-terrorism-case-586380">Navalny says he faces 30 more years in prison in 'absurd' terrorism case</a></strong></p>

<p>"But life works in such a way that social progress and a better future can only be achieved if a certain number of people are willing to pay the price for their right to have beliefs."</p>

<p>In his message, the opposition leader Alexei Navalny expressed hope that "the day will come when speaking the truth and advocating for justice will become something commonplace and not at all dangerous in Russia."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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As the Ukraine war shows no signs of abetting and nears 500 days of conflict, the situation inside Russia remains stifling. In the latest move to stifle opposition, Russia arrested more than 100 supporters of opposition leader and Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny on Sunday.

As the Ukraine war shows no signs of abetting and nears 500 days of conflict, the situation inside Russia remains stifling. In the latest move to stifle opposition, Russia arrested more than 100 supporters of opposition leader and Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny on Sunday. The people, as per a protest monitoring group, had taken to the streets to mark the 47th birthday of their jailed leader. The arrests In its statement, the monitoring group OVD-Info said that people have been detained in 23 cities across Russia. The number of individuals arrested as of 10:42 pm Moscow time (1942 GMT) stood at 109. Reuters reports that footage from Russia's two largest cities Moscow and St Petersburg shows police arresting individual protestors. In most cities, "only a handful" of individuals have been detained. In one clip, a man could be seen holding up a protest sign briefly, before police usher him away, "bent over, as he groaned in pain". Also read | New fighting on Russian side of Ukraine border, says governor Reportedly, another man in Moscow, who held up a sign that said "Free Navalny" in English, was also arrested among many others. In St Petersburg, authorities arrested a woman who was accompanied by her "underage child". Talking to reporters, the woman said: "I'm against the war, that's why they detained me with my underage kid." A repeating pattern? Ever since the Russia-Ukraine war began with Russian President Vladimir Putin's announcement of a "special military operation" on February 24th, 2022, authorities in Moscow have clamped down heavily on any signs of dissent. Taking the crackdown on freedom to a new level, as per AFP, Russia has shut down independent media. Most key opposition figures are in exile or, like Alexei Navalny, are behind bars. Navalny from behind the bars Citing the Kremlin critic, AFP reports that Navalny on Sunday professed that despite tougher prison conditions and yet another spell of solitary confinement, he is "in a good mood". Navalny is currently serving a nine-year prison sentence on embezzlement and other charges. He will soon go on trial in a new "extremism" case in which he faces a further 35 years in prison. Alexei Navalny is convinced that the authorities are trying to keep him imprisoned for the rest of his life. "On the morning of your birthday you have to be honest with yourself, so I ask myself the question: am I really in a good mood, or do force myself to feel that way? "My answer is: I really am. Let's face it, of course I wish I didn't have to wake up in this hellhole and instead have breakfast with my family, receive kisses on the cheek from my children, unwrap presents..." Also read | Navalny says he faces 30 more years in prison in 'absurd' terrorism case "But life works in such a way that social progress and a better future can only be achieved if a certain number of people are willing to pay the price for their right to have beliefs." In his message, the opposition leader Alexei Navalny expressed hope that "the day will come when speaking the truth and advocating for justice will become something commonplace and not at all dangerous in Russia." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's 109 supporters, including underage child arrested by Russian police

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