Ukraine claimed its armed forces had conducted a successful counterattack on the outskirts of Bakhmut. The Ukrainian push in and around Bakhmut comes as Russia struggles to complete its capture of the city, facing resistance from the Ukrainian defenders.

Russia-Ukraine War Update: Ukraine claims breakthrough in Bakhmut

The pace of the war in and around the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut has been changed dramatically in the recent weeks. The warring sides have also grown more and more vocal about the developments in the city. Watch the video to know more.

Russia-Ukraine War: Are Russians divided on the frontlines? | World News | WION

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described&nbsp;Ukraine as "the beating heart of today's European values" in a visit to Kyiv on Tuesday as Russia marked its World War II Victory Day.

Von der Leyen's trip underlined the European Union's support for Ukraine as Russian President Vladimir Putin presided over a military parade on Moscow's Red Square and portrayed his own country as under attack by the West as war rages on in Ukraine for the 15th month.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he and von der Leyen had discussed defence matters, sanctions on Russia and Ukraine's integration with the European Union.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;How has the Russia- Ukraine war changed the world? | Latest English News | WION

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"Our efforts for a united Europe, for security and peace, need to be as strong as Russia's desire to destroy our security, our freedom, our Europe," he told a joint news conference.

He also highlighted Russia's military failures in Ukraine by saying Russian forces had not managed to achieve the goal of capturing the eastern city of Bakhmut before the May 9 holiday, when Russia celebrates the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany.

Von der Leyen's trip fell on the day the EU celebrates as Europe Day, which Ukraine adopted as its own on Monday, underlining its ambition to join Western institutions after applying to join the EU last year following Russia's invasion.

Von der Leyen, who arrived in Kyiv after a night of reported Russian air strikes, welcomed Zelensky's decision on adopting Europe Day.

"Good to be back in Kyiv. Where the values we hold dear are defended everyday," von der Leyen, who heads the EU executive, wrote on Twitter.

"Ukraine is on the front line of the defence of everything we Europeans cherish: our liberty, our democracy, our freedom of thought and speech. Courageously, Ukraine is fighting for the ideals of Europe that we celebrate today."

Zelenskiy said he expected an 11th package of EU sanctions to be imposed on Russia soon and that it should include powerful sanctions on Russia's atomic sector.

He said he expected an EU summit in June to yield a positive appraisal of Ukraine's integration process.

"Our values, security, our wellbeing, security on the continent — all of this can be 100% realised for Europe only together with Ukraine," he said.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described Ukraine as "the beating heart of today's European values" in a visit to Kyiv on Tuesday as Russia marked its World War II Victory Day.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described Ukraine as "the beating heart of today's European values" in a visit to Kyiv on Tuesday as Russia marked its World War II Victory Day. Von der Leyen's trip underlined the European Union's support for Ukraine as Russian President Vladimir Putin presided over a military parade on Moscow's Red Square and portrayed his own country as under attack by the West as war rages on in Ukraine for the 15th month. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he and von der Leyen had discussed defence matters, sanctions on Russia and Ukraine's integration with the European Union. ALSO WATCH | How has the Russia- Ukraine war changed the world? | Latest English News | WION × "Our efforts for a united Europe, for security and peace, need to be as strong as Russia's desire to destroy our security, our freedom, our Europe," he told a joint news conference. He also highlighted Russia's military failures in Ukraine by saying Russian forces had not managed to achieve the goal of capturing the eastern city of Bakhmut before the May 9 holiday, when Russia celebrates the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany. Von der Leyen's trip fell on the day the EU celebrates as Europe Day, which Ukraine adopted as its own on Monday, underlining its ambition to join Western institutions after applying to join the EU last year following Russia's invasion. Von der Leyen, who arrived in Kyiv after a night of reported Russian air strikes, welcomed Zelensky's decision on adopting Europe Day. "Good to be back in Kyiv. Where the values we hold dear are defended everyday," von der Leyen, who heads the EU executive, wrote on Twitter. "Ukraine is on the front line of the defence of everything we Europeans cherish: our liberty, our democracy, our freedom of thought and speech. Courageously, Ukraine is fighting for the ideals of Europe that we celebrate today." Zelenskiy said he expected an 11th package of EU sanctions to be imposed on Russia soon and that it should include powerful sanctions on Russia's atomic sector. He said he expected an EU summit in June to yield a positive appraisal of Ukraine's integration process. "Our values, security, our wellbeing, security on the continent — all of this can be 100% realised for Europe only together with Ukraine," he said. (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.

EU hails Ukraine as ‘beating heart of today’s European values’

News agency AFP's Ukraine video coordinator Arman Soldin was killed on Tuesday (May 9) by rocket fire near Chasiv Yar in eastern Ukraine. According to a report by AFP, the attack happened at around 4:30 pm (1330 GMT) on the outskirts of the town close to Bakhmut.

News agency AFP's Ukraine video coordinator Arman Soldin was killed on Tuesday (May 9) by rocket fire near Chasiv Yar in eastern Ukraine. According to a report by AFP, the attack happened at around 4:30 pm (1330 GMT) on the outskirts of the town close to Bakhmut. The team of AFP journalists came under fire from Grad rockets while they were with a group of Ukrainian soldiers. Arman Soldin, 32, was killed when a rocket struck close to where he was lying. The rest of the team was not injured. Soldin was a French national who started working for AFP as an intern in its Rome bureau in 2015 and was later hired in London. He was part of the news agency's first team to be sent to Ukraine after the beginning of the Russian offensive on February 24, 2022, arriving the next day. He had been living in Ukraine since September, leading the team's video coverage and travelling regularly to the frontlines in the east and south. Tributes pour in for Soldin AFP chairman Fabrice Fries said that the news agency was devastated by the loss of Arman Soldin. Fries highlighted that Soldin's death "is a terrible reminder of the risks and dangers faced by journalists every day covering the conflict in Ukraine." Taking to Twitter, French President Emmanuel Macron hailed Soldin's bravery and said, "With bravery, from the first hours of the conflict, he was at the front to establish the facts, to inform us." Ukraine's defence ministry also condoled the journalist's death and said, "He dedicated his life to informing the world about the truth. His legacy, as well as his cause, will live on." The White House also paid tribute to Soldin, with Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre saying the world was "indebted" to the journalists who lost their lives covering the conflict. "Arman's brilliant work encapsulated everything that has made us so proud of AFP's journalism in Ukraine," the agency's Global News Director Phil Chetwynd said. Remembering the 32-year-old, colleagues said Soldin knew in particular how to recount the lives of ordinary people caught up in war-torn Ukraine, desperately trying to survive amid the chaos. According to Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), with Soldin's death, 11 journalists or fixers and drivers for media teams now have been killed covering the war. 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 war: AFP journalist Arman Soldin killed by rocket fire near Chasiv Yar

Russia launched its biggest swarm of drones for months against Ukraine on Monday, the eve of Victory Day holiday. Kyiv's mayor said Moscow had fired 60 Iranian-made kamikaze drones at Ukrainian targets.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia launches huge drone attacks on Ukrainian cities

In light of "provocations" by Ukrainian forces, operations at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant have been suspended, according to a TASS state news agency report. The Moscow-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of the surrounding region,&nbsp;Yevgeny Balitsky, cited concerns over Ukraine's anticipated counteroffensive to reclaim Russian-held territory, including areas in the Zaporizhzhia region. 
 
Due to this, Russian authorities have reportedly initiated evacuations. Rafael Grossi, head of the United Nations nuclear power watchdog, on Saturday, expressed concerns about the plant's safety, describing the situation as "potentially dangerous."

"The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous," said the IAEA chief, adding that he's concerned.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2-year-old-ukrainian-refugee-receives-gift-of-sound-in-united-states-590366">Two-year-old Ukrainian refugee receives 'gift of sound' in United States</a>

"I’m extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant."&nbsp;

In response to the escalating situation, Russian officials have begun evacuating people from nearby areas. As per Reuters, approximately 3,000 people, including around 1,000 minors, have been evacuated from villages close to the front line.

Balitsky, the Moscow-installed governor, noted a rise in water levels in the nearby Kakhovka Reservoir, which he believes to be a manipulation. He did not provide further details on the matter.

"We've seen the level (of water in the nearby Kakhovka Reservoir) rise to 17.08 (metres). We realise that this is manipulation. The nuclear reactors have been suspended," he said as per TASS.

According to an AFP report, Ivan Fedorov, the mayor of Melitopol in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, said that the evacuation directive has resulted in "a mad panic and no less mad queues" at the checkpoint leading to Russian-annexed Crimea.

With buses making frequent trips transporting individuals out fuel stations have reportedly been "drained" of gasoline.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-russian-flags-at-memorials-on-ww2-anniversary-says-berlin-court-590397">No Russian flags at memorials on WW2 anniversary, rules Berlin court</a>

Expressing concerns on Telegram, Fedorov stated: "The partial evacuation they announced is going too fast, and there is a possibility that they may be preparing for provocations and (for that reason) focusing on civilians."

The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which happens to be Europe's largest nuclear energy facility, was seized by Russia during the early stages of its invasion of Ukraine that began in February of last year. Despite all six reactors being in "cold shutdown" and not generating electricity, they still contain nuclear material.&nbsp;

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), led by Grossi, has previously issued warnings about the plant's safety following temporary power cuts caused by shelling. In March, the IAEA cautioned that the facility was relying on diesel generators to maintain crucial cooling systems due to damage to power lines.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In light of "provocations" by Ukrainian forces, operations at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant have been suspended, according to a TASS state news agency report. The Moscow-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of the surrounding region, Yevgeny Balitsky, cited concerns over Ukraine's anticipated counteroffensive to reclaim Russian-held territory, including areas in the Zaporizhzhia region.

In light of "provocations" by Ukrainian forces, operations at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant have been suspended, according to a TASS state news agency report. The Moscow-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of the surrounding region, Yevgeny Balitsky, cited concerns over Ukraine's anticipated counteroffensive to reclaim Russian-held territory, including areas in the Zaporizhzhia region. Due to this, Russian authorities have reportedly initiated evacuations. Rafael Grossi, head of the United Nations nuclear power watchdog, on Saturday, expressed concerns about the plant's safety, describing the situation as "potentially dangerous." "The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous," said the IAEA chief, adding that he's concerned. Also read | Two-year-old Ukrainian refugee receives 'gift of sound' in United States "I’m extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant." In response to the escalating situation, Russian officials have begun evacuating people from nearby areas. As per Reuters, approximately 3,000 people, including around 1,000 minors, have been evacuated from villages close to the front line. Balitsky, the Moscow-installed governor, noted a rise in water levels in the nearby Kakhovka Reservoir, which he believes to be a manipulation. He did not provide further details on the matter. "We've seen the level (of water in the nearby Kakhovka Reservoir) rise to 17.08 (metres). We realise that this is manipulation. The nuclear reactors have been suspended," he said as per TASS. According to an AFP report, Ivan Fedorov, the mayor of Melitopol in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, said that the evacuation directive has resulted in "a mad panic and no less mad queues" at the checkpoint leading to Russian-annexed Crimea. With buses making frequent trips transporting individuals out fuel stations have reportedly been "drained" of gasoline. Also read | No Russian flags at memorials on WW2 anniversary, rules Berlin court Expressing concerns on Telegram, Fedorov stated: "The partial evacuation they announced is going too fast, and there is a possibility that they may be preparing for provocations and (for that reason) focusing on civilians." The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which happens to be Europe's largest nuclear energy facility, was seized by Russia during the early stages of its invasion of Ukraine that began in February of last year. Despite all six reactors being in "cold shutdown" and not generating electricity, they still contain nuclear material. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), led by Grossi, has previously issued warnings about the plant's safety following temporary power cuts caused by shelling. In March, the IAEA cautioned that the facility was relying on diesel generators to maintain crucial cooling systems due to damage to power lines. (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.

Russia suspends operations at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, evacuates civilians amid threat of 'provocation'

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: Russian forces destroy 22 Ukrainian drones | Iran on Nuclear deal revival

Russia launched a large-scale wave of strikes on Kyiv and across Ukraine sowing destruction and injuries, as Moscow prepares for its cherished Victory Day holiday that marks the anniversary of its defeat of Nazi Germany.

Russia launches mass strikes on Ukraine ahead of Victory Day holiday

A Ukrainian refugee family that escaped the war in their home country and fled to the United States has received the miracle they were hoping for their toddler, the 'gift of sound'.

In a heartwarming story of hope, a young Ukrainian war refugee named Zlata has been given the gift of sound by a team of dedicated doctors in South Carolina. Zlata, who was born deaf, received a cochlear implant that has allowed her to hear for the first time in her life.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-food-no-water-only-wine-48-year-old-woman-miraculously-survives-five-days-in-bush-590286">No food, no water, only wine: 48-year-old woman miraculously survives five days in bush</a>

Parents Diana Kuzmina and her husband Olech Kuzmin as per CBS were for months haunted by the fear that their young daughter, two-year-old Zlata Kuzmina, was completely deaf and would forever be denied the sense many of us take for granted.

Thanks to a "very nice" doctor, the toddler can now hear.

The family travelled from their home in Odesa, Ukraine, to the United States. The trip, which took nearly two months, had them stay in Moldova, the Czech Republic, Poland and Germany, before finally settling in Boiling Springs, South Carolina.&nbsp;

Once in the US, the father Oleh Kuzmin landed a job at a nearby BMW plant, and as per his wife Diana Kuzmina, the miracle happened because "a lot of people prayed for us and God sent us a very good team and a very nice doctor."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-rejecting-worlds-most-progressive-constitution-chile-elects-right-wing-parties-to-rewrite-charter-590276">Chile elects right-wing parties to rewrite constitution after rejecting 'world's most progressive' charter</a>

CBS identifies the "very nice doctor" as Dr Teddy McRackan, a surgeon and cochlear implant specialist.&nbsp;

Upon running a spate of diagnostics, McRackan and his team at the Medical University of South Carolina found that the two-year-old girl was deaf in her left ear, but that "she was responding at very, very loud levels to noise in that right ear."

In a procedure done at the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital, a cochlear implant was placed in Zlata's ear. But there was still no guarantee that the little Ukrainian refugee would be able to hear.

After a month of waiting for the surgical incision to heal, in April, the implant was turned on and they found that the procedure was a success. Although Zlata's deafness is not completely cured, the device attached to her head, and the implant enables her to hear.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Ukrainian refugee family that escaped the war in their home country and fled to the United States has received the miracle they were hoping for their toddler, the 'gift of sound'.

A Ukrainian refugee family that escaped the war in their home country and fled to the United States has received the miracle they were hoping for their toddler, the 'gift of sound'. In a heartwarming story of hope, a young Ukrainian war refugee named Zlata has been given the gift of sound by a team of dedicated doctors in South Carolina. Zlata, who was born deaf, received a cochlear implant that has allowed her to hear for the first time in her life. Also read | No food, no water, only wine: 48-year-old woman miraculously survives five days in bush Parents Diana Kuzmina and her husband Olech Kuzmin as per CBS were for months haunted by the fear that their young daughter, two-year-old Zlata Kuzmina, was completely deaf and would forever be denied the sense many of us take for granted. Thanks to a "very nice" doctor, the toddler can now hear. The family travelled from their home in Odesa, Ukraine, to the United States. The trip, which took nearly two months, had them stay in Moldova, the Czech Republic, Poland and Germany, before finally settling in Boiling Springs, South Carolina. Once in the US, the father Oleh Kuzmin landed a job at a nearby BMW plant, and as per his wife Diana Kuzmina, the miracle happened because "a lot of people prayed for us and God sent us a very good team and a very nice doctor." Also read | Chile elects right-wing parties to rewrite constitution after rejecting 'world's most progressive' charter CBS identifies the "very nice doctor" as Dr Teddy McRackan, a surgeon and cochlear implant specialist. Upon running a spate of diagnostics, McRackan and his team at the Medical University of South Carolina found that the two-year-old girl was deaf in her left ear, but that "she was responding at very, very loud levels to noise in that right ear." In a procedure done at the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital, a cochlear implant was placed in Zlata's ear. But there was still no guarantee that the little Ukrainian refugee would be able to hear. After a month of waiting for the surgical incision to heal, in April, the implant was turned on and they found that the procedure was a success. Although Zlata's deafness is not completely cured, the device attached to her head, and the implant enables her to hear. (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.

Two-year-old Ukrainian refugee receives 'gift of sound' in United States

Russia's air defenses detected and destroyed 22 Ukrainian drones over the Black Sea overnight, the country's defence ministry said on Sunday (May 7, 2023) in a daily briefing. A Russian-installed official said earlier that Ukraine had launched drones at Crimea overnight, without providing details.

Russia says it destroys 22 Ukrainian drones over Black Sea

Victory in Europe Day commemorates&nbsp;the acceptance by the Allies of Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender in World War II on 8th May&nbsp;1945.&nbsp;It is a day of remembrance and commemoration of the sacrifices made by the military personnel and civilians who contributed to the defeat of Nazi Germany.

It is a day to honour the memory of those who lost their lives during the war and to express gratitude to the veterans who fought for freedom and democracy. While Russia’s first post-Soviet president Boris Yeltsin established Victory Day festivities in Russia as an annual event, it was Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev who declared May 9 a national holiday, as per reports.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/french-startup-will-take-to-take-people-to-space-in-a-balloon-heres-how-590070">French startup will take people to space in a balloon. Here's how</a>

In many countries, Victory Day is marked by parades, ceremonies, and speeches. The day is often observed as a national holiday, and schools, businesses, and government offices may be closed. It is an important reminder of the importance of international cooperation and solidarity in the face of global threats and serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed during World War II and the need to work towards peace and security for all people.

Victory Day was a major event in the country's history and had a profound impact on Russian society and culture. The celebrations in Russia typically include a military parade on Red Square in Moscow, which features troops, tanks, and other military equipment.

The parade is followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the soldiers, as well as fireworks and other festivities.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-pm-sympathises-with-koreas-colonial-victims-stops-short-of-offering-apology-590066">Japanese PM ‘sympathises’ with Korea’s colonial victims, stops short of offering apology</a>

In addition to the celebrations in Moscow, Victory Day is marked in cities and towns throughout Russia, as well as in other countries with significant Russian populations.

While Victory Day is primarily a day of celebration in Russia, it is also a time to reflect on the sacrifices made during the war and to remember the millions of people who lost their lives.

<h2>Ukraine War and Victory Day celebrations&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

The Ukraine war has led to thousands of deaths and displacement of people. The war has its roots in the political and ethnic tensions between Ukraine and Russia, and it began with the annexation of Crimea by Russia and the subsequent conflict in eastern Ukraine.

The situation has made the celebration of Victory Day in Ukraine a sensitive topic. Victory Day is a significant day in Ukraine, as it marks the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.

However, the conflict with Russia has caused some Ukrainians to question the holiday's significance, as they view Russia's annexation of Crimea and involvement in the conflict as a threat to Ukraine's sovereignty.

In recent years, the celebration of Victory Day in Ukraine has become increasingly divided. While some Ukrainians continue to celebrate the holiday as a way to honour the sacrifices made during World War II, others view it as a reminder of Russia's aggression towards Ukraine.

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One year after Russia invaded Crimea, Petro Poroshenko, Ukraine's then-president, said in 2015 that Ukraine will observe the "Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation" on May 8 and Victory Day against Nazism in World War II on May 9 in 2015.&nbsp;

This year, Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament, has proposed a draft bill that calls for getting "rid of past vestiges." "The end of the Second World War on the European front is celebrated on May 8. However, in other countries it is not a holiday, but a day of mourning for tens of millions of dead. The corresponding character should be returned to Ukraine as well," said an explanatory note published by the Verkhovna Rada.

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine underscores the importance of commemorating historical events with sensitivity and respect, and of promoting peace and reconciliation in the face of divisive political and social tensions.

In addition to the official celebrations, Victory Day is also a time for families to gather and remember their relatives who fought in the war. Many families visit cemeteries and war memorials to lay flowers and pay their respects to their loved ones.

While the celebrations are primarily a time for remembrance and reflection, they also serve as a demonstration of Russia's military might and its place in the world as a major power.

VE Day is celebrated in several countries around the world, including the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and the United States. The day is typically marked by parades, wreath-laying ceremonies, and other public events, as well as private gatherings and celebrations.

In the United Kingdom, VE Day is a bank holiday and is celebrated with street parties, concerts, and other events.&nbsp;In France, VE Day is known as Victory in Europe and Liberation Day, and it is marked with a national holiday.

In the United States, VE Day is not a national holiday, but it is observed as a day of remembrance and reflection. The day is typically marked by events at war memorials and other public spaces, and it is an opportunity for Americans to remember the sacrifices made by their fellow citizens during the war.

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Victory in Europe Day commemorates the acceptance by the Allies of Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender in World War II on 8th May 1945. It is a day of remembrance and commemoration of the sacrifices made by the military personnel and civilians who contributed to the defeat of Nazi Germany.

Victory in Europe Day commemorates the acceptance by the Allies of Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender in World War II on 8th May 1945. It is a day of remembrance and commemoration of the sacrifices made by the military personnel and civilians who contributed to the defeat of Nazi Germany. It is a day to honour the memory of those who lost their lives during the war and to express gratitude to the veterans who fought for freedom and democracy. While Russia’s first post-Soviet president Boris Yeltsin established Victory Day festivities in Russia as an annual event, it was Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev who declared May 9 a national holiday, as per reports. Also Read | French startup will take people to space in a balloon. Here's how In many countries, Victory Day is marked by parades, ceremonies, and speeches. The day is often observed as a national holiday, and schools, businesses, and government offices may be closed. It is an important reminder of the importance of international cooperation and solidarity in the face of global threats and serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed during World War II and the need to work towards peace and security for all people. Victory Day was a major event in the country's history and had a profound impact on Russian society and culture. The celebrations in Russia typically include a military parade on Red Square in Moscow, which features troops, tanks, and other military equipment. The parade is followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the soldiers, as well as fireworks and other festivities. Also Read | Japanese PM ‘sympathises’ with Korea’s colonial victims, stops short of offering apology In addition to the celebrations in Moscow, Victory Day is marked in cities and towns throughout Russia, as well as in other countries with significant Russian populations. While Victory Day is primarily a day of celebration in Russia, it is also a time to reflect on the sacrifices made during the war and to remember the millions of people who lost their lives. Ukraine War and Victory Day celebrations The Ukraine war has led to thousands of deaths and displacement of people. The war has its roots in the political and ethnic tensions between Ukraine and Russia, and it began with the annexation of Crimea by Russia and the subsequent conflict in eastern Ukraine. The situation has made the celebration of Victory Day in Ukraine a sensitive topic. Victory Day is a significant day in Ukraine, as it marks the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. However, the conflict with Russia has caused some Ukrainians to question the holiday's significance, as they view Russia's annexation of Crimea and involvement in the conflict as a threat to Ukraine's sovereignty. In recent years, the celebration of Victory Day in Ukraine has become increasingly divided. While some Ukrainians continue to celebrate the holiday as a way to honour the sacrifices made during World War II, others view it as a reminder of Russia's aggression towards Ukraine. Watch | India: 'Vegan leather' developed by Central Leather Research Institute | Sustainable Fashion × One year after Russia invaded Crimea, Petro Poroshenko, Ukraine's then-president, said in 2015 that Ukraine will observe the "Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation" on May 8 and Victory Day against Nazism in World War II on May 9 in 2015. This year, Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament, has proposed a draft bill that calls for getting "rid of past vestiges." "The end of the Second World War on the European front is celebrated on May 8. However, in other countries it is not a holiday, but a day of mourning for tens of millions of dead. The corresponding character should be returned to Ukraine as well," said an explanatory note published by the Verkhovna Rada. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine underscores the importance of commemorating historical events with sensitivity and respect, and of promoting peace and reconciliation in the face of divisive political and social tensions. In addition to the official celebrations, Victory Day is also a time for families to gather and remember their relatives who fought in the war. Many families visit cemeteries and war memorials to lay flowers and pay their respects to their loved ones. While the celebrations are primarily a time for remembrance and reflection, they also serve as a demonstration of Russia's military might and its place in the world as a major power. VE Day is celebrated in several countries around the world, including the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and the United States. The day is typically marked by parades, wreath-laying ceremonies, and other public events, as well as private gatherings and celebrations. In the United Kingdom, VE Day is a bank holiday and is celebrated with street parties, concerts, and other events. In France, VE Day is known as Victory in Europe and Liberation Day, and it is marked with a national holiday. In the United States, VE Day is not a national holiday, but it is observed as a day of remembrance and reflection. The day is typically marked by events at war memorials and other public spaces, and it is an opportunity for Americans to remember the sacrifices made by their fellow citizens during the war. 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. ×

EXPLAINED: Russia's victory day and its significance in light of Ukraine war

Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Saturday asked Moscow to let him hand over the Bakhmut positions to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov.&nbsp;

"I ask you to issue a combat order before 00:00 on May 10 concerning the transfer of the positions of the Wagner paramilitary units in Bakhmut and its periphery, to the units of the Akhmat battalion," Yevgeny Prigozhin said in a letter to Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.

The Akhmat battalion refers to the Chechen combat units under the command of Kadyrov, who has ruled Russia's Muslim-majority republic Chechnya for the last decade and a half.

Prigozhin said that his fighters would be compelled to withdraw because of a long "ammunition famine".

He condemned the Russian defence ministry for delivering only 32 per cent of the required ammunition since October 2022.&nbsp;

<h2>Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov to send forces replacing Wagner in Bakhmut</h2>

Chechen leader and a staunch ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ramzan Kadyrov, said his forces are ready to replace Wagner Group mercenaries in Bakhmut.&nbsp;

This comes after Wagner Group announced the withdrawal of forces from the Bakhmut region with its leader Prigozhin citing lack of ammunition as the reason.&nbsp;

Kadyrov, reacting to Wagner's comments on leaving Bakhmut and giving the command to Russian Defence Ministry’s forces, said, "If the elder brother Prigozhin and Wagner fighters leave, the General Staff will lose an experienced combat unit, but the younger brother Kadyrov and the Akhmat unit will replace them in Artyomovsk."

"If such a scenario is implemented, our fighters are ready to advance and take the city. However, we would like the last remaining two kilometres to be taken not at the expense of the lives of our warriors but as a result of mutual understanding, support and the determination of commanders and soldiers," Kadyrov noted.

"The interests of the state and the country’s security should come first. Once the special military operation is over, I would like all of us to emerge victorious and all the soldiers, commanders and Russian patriots to stand together," Kadyrov added.

<h2>Russia's Wagner threatens to leave Bakhmut</h2>

Wagner Group chief on Friday announced that on May 10 it will pull out from the Bakhmut region where the battle to overrun Ukrainian resistance is continuing with sharp intensity for nearly two months.&nbsp;

Wagner Group boss Yevgeny Prigozhin said that his men were facing a lack of ammunition and that he would expect the army to take their place in Bakhmut next Wednesday.

"My lads will not suffer useless and unjustified losses in Bakhmut without ammunition," Prigozhin said in a video accompanying a written withdrawal announcement addressed to military leaders including President Vladimir Putin.

In the announcement, he condemned 'bureaucrats' for holding back the ammunition supplies despite knowing that Wagner's target date to capture the city was May 9, which is also the day of the World War II commemoration.

"If, because of your petty jealousy, you do not want to give the Russian people the victory of taking Bakhmut, that's your problem," Prigozhin added in the video.

As per RIA news agency reports, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu had instructed one of his deputy ministers to ensure troops had all the weapons they needed.&nbsp;

(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.&nbsp;

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Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Saturday asked Moscow to let him hand over the Bakhmut positions to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. "I ask you to issue a combat order before 00:00 on May 10 concerning the transfer of the positions of the Wagner paramilitary units in Bakhmut and its periphery, to the units of the Akhmat battalion," Yevgeny Prigozhin said in a letter to Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.

Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Saturday asked Moscow to let him hand over the Bakhmut positions to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. "I ask you to issue a combat order before 00:00 on May 10 concerning the transfer of the positions of the Wagner paramilitary units in Bakhmut and its periphery, to the units of the Akhmat battalion," Yevgeny Prigozhin said in a letter to Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. The Akhmat battalion refers to the Chechen combat units under the command of Kadyrov, who has ruled Russia's Muslim-majority republic Chechnya for the last decade and a half. Prigozhin said that his fighters would be compelled to withdraw because of a long "ammunition famine". He condemned the Russian defence ministry for delivering only 32 per cent of the required ammunition since October 2022. Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov to send forces replacing Wagner in Bakhmut Chechen leader and a staunch ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ramzan Kadyrov, said his forces are ready to replace Wagner Group mercenaries in Bakhmut. This comes after Wagner Group announced the withdrawal of forces from the Bakhmut region with its leader Prigozhin citing lack of ammunition as the reason. Kadyrov, reacting to Wagner's comments on leaving Bakhmut and giving the command to Russian Defence Ministry’s forces, said, "If the elder brother Prigozhin and Wagner fighters leave, the General Staff will lose an experienced combat unit, but the younger brother Kadyrov and the Akhmat unit will replace them in Artyomovsk." "If such a scenario is implemented, our fighters are ready to advance and take the city. However, we would like the last remaining two kilometres to be taken not at the expense of the lives of our warriors but as a result of mutual understanding, support and the determination of commanders and soldiers," Kadyrov noted. "The interests of the state and the country’s security should come first. Once the special military operation is over, I would like all of us to emerge victorious and all the soldiers, commanders and Russian patriots to stand together," Kadyrov added. Russia's Wagner threatens to leave Bakhmut Wagner Group chief on Friday announced that on May 10 it will pull out from the Bakhmut region where the battle to overrun Ukrainian resistance is continuing with sharp intensity for nearly two months. Wagner Group boss Yevgeny Prigozhin said that his men were facing a lack of ammunition and that he would expect the army to take their place in Bakhmut next Wednesday. "My lads will not suffer useless and unjustified losses in Bakhmut without ammunition," Prigozhin said in a video accompanying a written withdrawal announcement addressed to military leaders including President Vladimir Putin. In the announcement, he condemned 'bureaucrats' for holding back the ammunition supplies despite knowing that Wagner's target date to capture the city was May 9, which is also the day of the World War II commemoration. "If, because of your petty jealousy, you do not want to give the Russian people the victory of taking Bakhmut, that's your problem," Prigozhin added in the video. As per RIA news agency reports, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu had instructed one of his deputy ministers to ensure troops had all the weapons they needed. (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

Wagner chief asks Moscow to let him hand over Bakhmut positions to Chechen leader

The situation in the Russia-Ukraine war continues to remain tense as a Russian-installed official said early on Sunday that Ukraine struck the Crimean Peninsula overnight with over 10 drones, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

As per reports, three of these drones hit the port of Sevastopol. The official added that Sevastopol's air defence systems were able to successfully thwart all of the strikes.

"No objects (in Sevastopol) were damaged," the Moscow-installed Sevastopol governor Mikhail Razvozhayev said on Telegram.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-kishida-heads-to-seoul-for-landmark-summit-with-yoon-589868">Japan's Kishida heads to Seoul for landmark summit with Yoon</a>

No damages from the attacks were reported from elsewhere on the Crimean Peninsula. Crimea was seized by Russia from Ukraine in 2014. Russian forces launched a major military offensive into Ukraine, which included significant advances into Ukrainian territory. The offensive was characterized by intense fighting, and many civilians were displaced from their homes.

The war in Eastern Europe is entering a significant phase with Ukraine's spring offensive. With this, there are significant stakes for war.

According to preliminary information, there were no injuries reported following Ukraine's drone strikes on Crimea. Telegram channel Baza, which has connections to Russian law enforcement, claimed the incident to be a series of strikes on Crimea earlier on Sunday.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-at-least-nine-shot-at-mall-in-texas-shooter-killed-by-police-589857">At least nine people killed in shooting at Texas mall; gunman killed by police</a>

Explosions took place in Sevastopol and Saki, where Russia has an air base. A few other places also came under attack, as per Ukrainian Telegram channels.&nbsp;

Watch | World at War: How is Russia's Wagner Group sending weapons into Sudan?

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The last two weeks have seen an increase in attacks against Russian-controlled locations, particularly in Crimea. Without denying any involvement in the strikes, Ukraine claims that destroying infrastructure is a prelude to its upcoming ground offensive.

For months, the war's most severe combat has been taking place in the battle for Bakhmut. Russia views this as a crucial battlefield to advance to other cities in eastern Ukraine's Donbas area.

Thousands of lives have reportedly been lost on both sides during this battle. Despite being driven back in recent weeks, Ukrainian forces were still able to maintain some degree of control over the region while dealing as much damage as they could to both regular Russian soldiers and soldiers from the Wagner mercenary group.

The Wagner group, which has led the charge in the conflict to seize Bakhmut, has declared it will leave the area on 10th May. Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of Wagner Group, stated in a statement on Friday that the retreat was because of a shortage of ammunition supply.

Chechen leader and a staunch ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ramzan Kadyrov, said his forces are ready to replace Wagner Group mercenaries in Bakhmut.&nbsp;

Kadyrov is a former militia leader who fought against Russian forces during the First Chechen War in the 1990s. However, he later switched sides and became a loyal supporter of the Russian government when he abandoned Chechnya's separatist movement.&nbsp;

(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.)

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The situation in the Russia-Ukraine war continues to remain tense as a Russian-installed official said early on Sunday that Ukraine struck the Crimean Peninsula overnight with over 10 drones, reported Reuters.

The situation in the Russia-Ukraine war continues to remain tense as a Russian-installed official said early on Sunday that Ukraine struck the Crimean Peninsula overnight with over 10 drones, reported Reuters. As per reports, three of these drones hit the port of Sevastopol. The official added that Sevastopol's air defence systems were able to successfully thwart all of the strikes. "No objects (in Sevastopol) were damaged," the Moscow-installed Sevastopol governor Mikhail Razvozhayev said on Telegram. Also Read | Japan's Kishida heads to Seoul for landmark summit with Yoon No damages from the attacks were reported from elsewhere on the Crimean Peninsula. Crimea was seized by Russia from Ukraine in 2014. Russian forces launched a major military offensive into Ukraine, which included significant advances into Ukrainian territory. The offensive was characterized by intense fighting, and many civilians were displaced from their homes. The war in Eastern Europe is entering a significant phase with Ukraine's spring offensive. With this, there are significant stakes for war. According to preliminary information, there were no injuries reported following Ukraine's drone strikes on Crimea. Telegram channel Baza, which has connections to Russian law enforcement, claimed the incident to be a series of strikes on Crimea earlier on Sunday. Also Read | At least nine people killed in shooting at Texas mall; gunman killed by police Explosions took place in Sevastopol and Saki, where Russia has an air base. A few other places also came under attack, as per Ukrainian Telegram channels. Watch | World at War: How is Russia's Wagner Group sending weapons into Sudan? × The last two weeks have seen an increase in attacks against Russian-controlled locations, particularly in Crimea. Without denying any involvement in the strikes, Ukraine claims that destroying infrastructure is a prelude to its upcoming ground offensive. For months, the war's most severe combat has been taking place in the battle for Bakhmut. Russia views this as a crucial battlefield to advance to other cities in eastern Ukraine's Donbas area. Thousands of lives have reportedly been lost on both sides during this battle. Despite being driven back in recent weeks, Ukrainian forces were still able to maintain some degree of control over the region while dealing as much damage as they could to both regular Russian soldiers and soldiers from the Wagner mercenary group. The Wagner group, which has led the charge in the conflict to seize Bakhmut, has declared it will leave the area on 10th May. Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of Wagner Group, stated in a statement on Friday that the retreat was because of a shortage of ammunition supply. Chechen leader and a staunch ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ramzan Kadyrov, said his forces are ready to replace Wagner Group mercenaries in Bakhmut. Kadyrov is a former militia leader who fought against Russian forces during the First Chechen War in the 1990s. However, he later switched sides and became a loyal supporter of the Russian government when he abandoned Chechnya's separatist movement. (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.

Ukraine strikes Crimean peninsula with over 10 drones in overnight attack

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) head Rafael Grossi warned on Saturday (May 7) that the situation around the Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant was becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) head Rafael Grossi warned on Saturday (May 7) that the situation around the Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant was becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous. "The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous," Grossi said on the IAEA's website and called for measures to ensure the plant's safe operation. "I'm extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant. We must act now to prevent the threat of a severe nuclear accident and its associated consequences for the population and the environment," Grossi added. ALSO READ | Explained: Ukraine downs Russia’s hypersonic Kinzhal missile. Here’s all you need to know The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant was seized by Russian forces just days after Moscow launched the invasion of Ukraine in February last year. In March, IAEA head Grossi paid a visit to the plant as part of efforts to speak to both sides to secure an agreement on safeguards to ensure the station's safe operation. He repeatedly warned of the dangers of military operations around the plant. On Friday, the Russian-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of Zaporizhzhia Yevgeny Balitsky said he ordered the evacuation of villages close to the front line with Ukrainian forces there, adding that Ukrainian shelling had intensified in the area recently. Russian nationalist writer injured in car bombing: Report Also on Saturday, prominent Russian nationalist writer Zakhar Prilepin was injured in a car bombing in Russia's Nizhny Novgorod region. According to a report by BBC on Sunday, Prilepin suffered fractures and his driver was killed. Russian investigators claimed they were questioning a suspect named Alexander Permyakov who has admitted operating for Ukraine. ALSO READ | Ukraine strikes Crimean peninsula with over 10 drones The suspect was caught in a neighbouring village. According to the Investigative Committee (SK), the suspect admitted to doing an assignment for the Ukrainian secret services. The Ukrainian government has not commented on the bombing so far. Saturday's car explosion comes a month after pro-Kremlin blogger Vladlen Tatarsky was killed in a bombing at a cafe in St Petersburg. 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 war: Situation around Zaporizhzhia plant becoming increasingly unpredictable, says IAEA head

Russian mercenary Wagner Group's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Friday threatened to pull his frontline troops out of Bakhmut. In a series of scathing videos, the Wagner chief blamed Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov for "tens of thousands" of killed and wounded Russian fighters in Ukraine. Ahead of an expected Ukrainian offensive, Prigozhin's extraordinary attack on military chiefs, as per AFP, has exposed a deep rift in Russian ranks.

Vowing to hold the generals to account for their failure to provide his fighters with sufficient ammunition, the paramilitary leader said: "For the tens of thousands killed and wounded, they will bear responsibility in front of their mothers and children, I will achieve that."

"Their unprofessionalism is destroying tens of thousands of Russian guys and that is unforgivable," he added.

Here's all you need to know about Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and his anger at Russian generals.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is Yevgeny Prigozhin?</h2>

Yevgeny Viktorovich Prigozhin is a Russian oligarch and a confidant of President Vladimir Putin, who is often called "Putin's chef."&nbsp;

His nickname stems from the fact that he owns restaurants and catering companies that provide services for the Kremlin.

The Wagner chief started his career as a petty criminal and even spent a decade behind bars for crime. Released from jail in 1990, he started selling hotdogs and before long owned a chain of supermarkets, before opening a restaurant called the Old Customs House which became&nbsp;one of Putin's favourite haunts.

<h2>Prigozhin and Putin</h2>

As per the Guardian, the Wagner chief and the Russian President met back when Putin was deputy mayor of St Petersburg, serving under the-then mayor, Anatoly Sobchak.

Putin was reportedly a frequent patron of&nbsp;Prigozhin's restaurant, Old Customs House, on St Petersburg's Vasilievsky Island; even after ascending to the post of Russian President, he would often take his guests to the restaurant, which by then had been turned into a floating restaurant.&nbsp;

He would soon go on to win contracts and cater for major government events through Concord, a holding company he had set up back in the 1990s. Next, he would win giant government supply contracts worth billions of roubles to provide food to Moscow’s schools and eventually the army.

In 2014, he founded Wagner to support Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine.

As Prigozhin describes it: "I cleaned the old weapons myself, sorted out the bulletproof vests myself and found specialists who could help me with this. From that moment, on 1 May 2014, a group of patriots was born, which later came to be called the Wagner Battalion."&nbsp;

"I am proud that I was able to defend their right to protect the interests of their country," he added in the September 2022 statement, posted by his catering company, Concord.

<h2>The Wagner Group</h2>

Prigozhin controls a network of influential companies and is the founder of the Russian state-backed mercenary company Wagner Group.&nbsp;

The group, as per the Business Insider report, has played a significant role in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and was reportedly deployed to assassinate Ukrainian leaders. As per Russian media outlet Mediazona, the Wagner group has also been recruiting prisoners for frontline combat.

Wagner Group's&nbsp;ranks according to Western intelligence estimates have ballooned to about 50,000. This includes tens of thousands of ex-prisoners recruited from jails around Russia, often personally by Prigozhin.

The group has been accused of committing human rights abuses in Ukraine, Syria, Libya, Central African Republic, Sudan and Mozambique.

As per a report by Polygraph, Prigozhin also controls three companies that have been accused of interference in the 2016 and 2018 US elections. For the alleged influencing of elections, Prigozhin, along with six other individuals was even (re) designated under the Specially Designated Nationals And Blocked Persons List (SDN).

<h2>Prigozhin’s anger at&nbsp;Russian generals</h2>

The Wagner chief in a series of scathing videos has threatened to pull out his&nbsp;troops from Bakhmut.

"I will pull out Wagner units from Bakhmut because, in the absence of ammunition, they are facing a senseless death," said Prigozhin in a recently released video statement. He added that he was now expecting a plan from the military on how to implement the withdrawal.

As per AFP, while Prigozhin has made similar threats to pull out in the past, the emotive language and the scathing personal criticism of the leaders of Russia's campaign in Ukraine were unprecedented.

The Wagner chief claims that Russian generals are "withholding" ammunition urgently needed by his men. In February of this year, he had even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason".

Previously, in December 2022, he accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of cutting him off completely and said that he has been unable to get through to anyone at the Kremlin.

On his Telegram channel, he said, "To get me to stop asking for ammunition, all the hotlines to offices, to departments etc., have been cut off from me. But the real humdinger is that they’ve also blocked agencies from making decisions [related to Wagner]."

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Russian mercenary Wagner Group's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Friday threatened to pull his frontline troops out of Bakhmut. In a series of scathing videos, the Wagner chief blamed Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov for "tens of thousands" of killed and wounded Russian fighters in Ukraine.

Russian mercenary Wagner Group's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Friday threatened to pull his frontline troops out of Bakhmut. In a series of scathing videos, the Wagner chief blamed Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov for "tens of thousands" of killed and wounded Russian fighters in Ukraine. Ahead of an expected Ukrainian offensive, Prigozhin's extraordinary attack on military chiefs, as per AFP, has exposed a deep rift in Russian ranks. Vowing to hold the generals to account for their failure to provide his fighters with sufficient ammunition, the paramilitary leader said: "For the tens of thousands killed and wounded, they will bear responsibility in front of their mothers and children, I will achieve that." "Their unprofessionalism is destroying tens of thousands of Russian guys and that is unforgivable," he added. Here's all you need to know about Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and his anger at Russian generals. Who is Yevgeny Prigozhin? Yevgeny Viktorovich Prigozhin is a Russian oligarch and a confidant of President Vladimir Putin, who is often called "Putin's chef." His nickname stems from the fact that he owns restaurants and catering companies that provide services for the Kremlin. The Wagner chief started his career as a petty criminal and even spent a decade behind bars for crime. Released from jail in 1990, he started selling hotdogs and before long owned a chain of supermarkets, before opening a restaurant called the Old Customs House which became one of Putin's favourite haunts. Prigozhin and Putin As per the Guardian, the Wagner chief and the Russian President met back when Putin was deputy mayor of St Petersburg, serving under the-then mayor, Anatoly Sobchak. Putin was reportedly a frequent patron of Prigozhin's restaurant, Old Customs House, on St Petersburg's Vasilievsky Island; even after ascending to the post of Russian President, he would often take his guests to the restaurant, which by then had been turned into a floating restaurant. He would soon go on to win contracts and cater for major government events through Concord, a holding company he had set up back in the 1990s. Next, he would win giant government supply contracts worth billions of roubles to provide food to Moscow’s schools and eventually the army. In 2014, he founded Wagner to support Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine. As Prigozhin describes it: "I cleaned the old weapons myself, sorted out the bulletproof vests myself and found specialists who could help me with this. From that moment, on 1 May 2014, a group of patriots was born, which later came to be called the Wagner Battalion." "I am proud that I was able to defend their right to protect the interests of their country," he added in the September 2022 statement, posted by his catering company, Concord. The Wagner Group Prigozhin controls a network of influential companies and is the founder of the Russian state-backed mercenary company Wagner Group. The group, as per the Business Insider report, has played a significant role in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and was reportedly deployed to assassinate Ukrainian leaders. As per Russian media outlet Mediazona, the Wagner group has also been recruiting prisoners for frontline combat. Wagner Group's ranks according to Western intelligence estimates have ballooned to about 50,000. This includes tens of thousands of ex-prisoners recruited from jails around Russia, often personally by Prigozhin. The group has been accused of committing human rights abuses in Ukraine, Syria, Libya, Central African Republic, Sudan and Mozambique. As per a report by Polygraph, Prigozhin also controls three companies that have been accused of interference in the 2016 and 2018 US elections. For the alleged influencing of elections, Prigozhin, along with six other individuals was even (re) designated under the Specially Designated Nationals And Blocked Persons List (SDN). Prigozhin’s anger at Russian generals The Wagner chief in a series of scathing videos has threatened to pull out his troops from Bakhmut. "I will pull out Wagner units from Bakhmut because, in the absence of ammunition, they are facing a senseless death," said Prigozhin in a recently released video statement. He added that he was now expecting a plan from the military on how to implement the withdrawal. As per AFP, while Prigozhin has made similar threats to pull out in the past, the emotive language and the scathing personal criticism of the leaders of Russia's campaign in Ukraine were unprecedented. The Wagner chief claims that Russian generals are "withholding" ammunition urgently needed by his men. In February of this year, he had even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason". Previously, in December 2022, he accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of cutting him off completely and said that he has been unable to get through to anyone at the Kremlin. On his Telegram channel, he said, "To get me to stop asking for ammunition, all the hotlines to offices, to departments etc., have been cut off from me. But the real humdinger is that they’ve also blocked agencies from making decisions [related to Wagner]." (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.

Explained | From hotdog seller to Putin's chef, all you need to know about Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin

Russia's Wagner chief Prigozhin says his forces will leave Bakhmut on May 10. Meanwhile Russian and Ukrainian delegates had a fist fight at the Black Sea Summit in Turkiye, as the Russian representative tore off Ukrainian flag from MPs hands. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Ukraine-Russia flag drama | Wagner chief pulling troops out of Bakhmut

The war in Ukraine is changing gears. Since the alleged assassination attempt of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. The question remains up in the air who was the mastermind behind this attack. Was it an assassination drive or a false scare?

Is Russia's attempt of invading Ukraine fading away? | Russia-Ukraine War

Russia on Saturday blamed Ukraine and the West for the car explosion which involved the pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin.

A Russian nationalist and prominent pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin was injured in a car “explosion” on Saturday and one person was killed, informed the interior ministry after multiple drone attacks took place recently as the fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces escalated.

"According to initial reports, one person was killed by the explosion, and the writer Zakhar Prilepin, who was in the car, was injured" in the Nizhny Novgorod region, which is at a distance of 400 kilometres (250 miles) from Moscow, the ministry stated.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-moscow-accused-of-attacking-bakhmut-with-phosphorus-bombs-589677">Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow accused of attacking Bakhmut with phosphorus bombs</a>

The Russian Investigative Committee, which investigates serious crimes, said that Prilepin was "travelling with his family" when the blast took place.

Russia's TASS news agency separately quoted an official from emergency services who stated that the writer was wounded in the explosion but was conscious after the incident.

Reacting to the incident, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated on Telegram, "The fact has come true: Washington and NATO fed another international terrorist cell — the Kyiv regime."

She added that it was the "direct responsibility of the US and Britain", but gave no evidence which can support the accusation made by her. "We pray for Zakhar," she stated.

TASS agency reported that Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on the incident in the wake of no information from investigators.

WATCH | Russia's Wagner Group decides to withdraw from Bakhmut due to shortage of ammunition

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Russia started a terrorism probe into the car blast incident.&nbsp;

"The Investigative Committee of Russia has opened a criminal case into a terrorist act in connection with the explosion of Zakhar Prilepin's car," said the committee that investigates major crimes, after the interior ministry said that a man has been detained who "may be involved" in the explosion.

Prilepin is a writer and novelist who has always spoken in support of actions taken by Russia against Ukraine, at a time when the invasion of Moscow has entered the 15th month.&nbsp;

Prilepin is a prolific writer with&nbsp;nationalist views and has garnered more than 300,000 followers on Telegram as well as on his YouTube channel and his website.&nbsp;

The writer spoke in favour of Russian proxy forces which are present in Donbas in eastern Ukraine before the full-scale invasion started in February 2022 and led a military unit&nbsp;about which the writer boasted in his YouTube interview published in 2019 in which he said&nbsp;that his unit "killed people in big numbers".

"These people are dead, they are buried and… there are many of them. Not a single unit among the Donetsk battalions had such results. It was outrageous chaos what we did there... Not a single field commander had such results as I had," he stated.&nbsp;

Regional governor Gleb Nikitin stated, "Law enforcement officers are now investigating the circumstances and causes of the incident. Zakhar is OK."

Two famous pro-war Russian propagandists have lost their lives in bombings since Ukraine has been invaded by Russia in February last year.

Darya Dugina, who was a nationalist ideologue Aleksandr Dugin's daughter, was killed in a car bombing near Moscow in August when military blogger Vladlen Tatarsky died in a bomb attack in St Petersburg cafe last month. 
&nbsp;

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Russia on Saturday blamed Ukraine and the West for the car explosion which involved the pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin. A Russian nationalist and prominent pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin was injured in a car “explosion” on Saturday and one person was killed, informed the interior ministry after multiple drone attacks took place recently as the fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces escalated.

Russia on Saturday blamed Ukraine and the West for the car explosion which involved the pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin. A Russian nationalist and prominent pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin was injured in a car “explosion” on Saturday and one person was killed, informed the interior ministry after multiple drone attacks took place recently as the fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces escalated. "According to initial reports, one person was killed by the explosion, and the writer Zakhar Prilepin, who was in the car, was injured" in the Nizhny Novgorod region, which is at a distance of 400 kilometres (250 miles) from Moscow, the ministry stated. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow accused of attacking Bakhmut with phosphorus bombs The Russian Investigative Committee, which investigates serious crimes, said that Prilepin was "travelling with his family" when the blast took place. Russia's TASS news agency separately quoted an official from emergency services who stated that the writer was wounded in the explosion but was conscious after the incident. Reacting to the incident, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated on Telegram, "The fact has come true: Washington and NATO fed another international terrorist cell — the Kyiv regime." She added that it was the "direct responsibility of the US and Britain", but gave no evidence which can support the accusation made by her. "We pray for Zakhar," she stated. TASS agency reported that Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on the incident in the wake of no information from investigators. WATCH | Russia's Wagner Group decides to withdraw from Bakhmut due to shortage of ammunition Russia started a terrorism probe into the car blast incident. "The Investigative Committee of Russia has opened a criminal case into a terrorist act in connection with the explosion of Zakhar Prilepin's car," said the committee that investigates major crimes, after the interior ministry said that a man has been detained who "may be involved" in the explosion. Prilepin is a writer and novelist who has always spoken in support of actions taken by Russia against Ukraine, at a time when the invasion of Moscow has entered the 15th month. Prilepin is a prolific writer with nationalist views and has garnered more than 300,000 followers on Telegram as well as on his YouTube channel and his website. The writer spoke in favour of Russian proxy forces which are present in Donbas in eastern Ukraine before the full-scale invasion started in February 2022 and led a military unit about which the writer boasted in his YouTube interview published in 2019 in which he said that his unit "killed people in big numbers". "These people are dead, they are buried and… there are many of them. Not a single unit among the Donetsk battalions had such results. It was outrageous chaos what we did there... Not a single field commander had such results as I had," he stated. Regional governor Gleb Nikitin stated, "Law enforcement officers are now investigating the circumstances and causes of the incident. Zakhar is OK." Two famous pro-war Russian propagandists have lost their lives in bombings since Ukraine has been invaded by Russia in February last year. Darya Dugina, who was a nationalist ideologue Aleksandr Dugin's daughter, was killed in a car bombing near Moscow in August when military blogger Vladlen Tatarsky died in a bomb attack in St Petersburg cafe last month. 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 blames Ukraine, West for pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin’s car bombing

Ukraine announced on Saturday that it has downed a Russian hypersonic Kinzhal missile for the first time amid continuous attacks by Moscow that took place in the night between last Wednesday and Thursday in Kyiv.

The downing of Russian hypersonic missiles is being seen as a major setback to Russia's campaign of long-range air strikes.

The Ukraine Air Force announced that they shot down the Kh-47 Kinzhal missile in the skies of Kyiv using a US Patriot air defence system in the skies at around 2:30 am on Thursday (2330 GMT Wednesday).

"I congratulate the Ukrainian people on the historic event," said Ukrainian Air Force Commander General Mykola Oleshchuk on Telegram. "Yes, we shot down the 'unparallelled' Kinzhal'&nbsp;missile," he added.

The US Patriot system is among an array of sophisticated air defence units which was supplied to Ukraine by the West to repel Russia's month-long campaign of air strikes which had targeted the country's power facilities, critical infrastructure, and other sites.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-authorities-shoot-down-drone-near-airbase-in-crimea-588984">Ukraine shoots down its own drone that 'lost control' over Kyiv</a>

<h2>What is a Kinzhal missile?</h2>

The word Kinzhal means "dagger" in Russian. Kinzhal missile is among the six "next generation" weapons which President Vladimir Putin had unveiled in 2018 and had boasted as one of those missiles which cannot be shot down by any air defence system&nbsp;of the world.

Putin had termed Kinzhal missile as "an ideal weapon" that the missile defences find extremely difficult to intercept.

According to the Russian military, the ballistic missile boasts a range of up to 2,000km (1,250 miles) and flies 10 times faster than the speed of sound which makes it difficult to intercept.

The ballistic missile is capable of carrying conventional or nuclear warheads. Kinzhal missile is 8 metres long, has a body diameter of 1 metrer, and its launch weight is approximately 4,300 kg.

The missile has been designed to be launched using MiG-31 fighter jets from an altitude of about 18 km (59,000 ft). During all stages of the flight, this missile manoeuvres to overcome hostile air defence systems.

<h2>How much damage can a Kinzhal missile cause?</h2>

Although Russia has claimed that the missile is among “next generation” systems, however, experts in the West say that these claims are exaggerated.

The Centre for Strategic and International Studies states that “Russia’s designation of the Kinzhal as a ‘hypersonic’ missile is somewhat misleading, as nearly all ballistic missiles reach hypersonic speeds… at some point during their flight.”

Meanwhile, the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence said that the use of the Kinzhal was “likely intended to detract from a lack of progress in Russia’s ground campaign” and “unlikely to materially affect the outcome of Russia’s campaign” in Ukraine.

The major difference between Kinzhal and its purported predecessor is that the missile is launched using an airborne vehicle and not from the ground, which makes it less predictable and more difficult to intercept, and also more survivable compared to the Iskander ground system.

The Kinzhal missile can also be seen as a precision weapon which can easily strike key targets like command centres and with its high speed, the missile can easily penetrate even deeply buried bunkers. However, for achieving such a feat, good information about the target location is required.

Even though Kinzhal is considered as a dangerous weapon, most analysts agree that it is not very different from weapons which have been in use for decades.

Any previous use of Kinzhal for the attack was not previously disclosed by the Air Force, although Kyiv officials immediately stated that there has been an involvement of a ballistic missile.

WATCH | Is Russia's attempt of invading Ukraine fading away? | Russia-Ukraine War

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<h2>Ukraine's efforts to strengthen the air defence system</h2>

Ukraine also appealed to the Western allies to help in reinforcing the country's air defence system as its energy infrastructure has been pounded by Russia from the air over winter.

Ukraine in mid-April received the first Patriots which is considered as one of the most advanced air defence systems of the United States.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the system would "significantly" strengthen the defences of the country against Russian strikes.

Many civilians have lost their lives in the attacks which were escalated by Russia in October ahead of winter. The Russian strikes failed to

The strikes failed to paralyse the power grid but led to major power outages. Russia has constantly denied targeting civilians.

Russia made the air strikes on Thursday a day after it accused Ukraine of making a failed attempt to assassinate President Vladimir Putin through a drone attack over the Kremlin citadel in Moscow and said that it would retaliate.

Since then, Moscow has accused Washington of being involved in the assassination plan but the allegations were denied by both the United States and Ukraine.

The drone and missile attacks over regions of Ukraine have been intensified by Russia in the past week as Kyiv prepares for a counter-offensive against the Russian army who have dug in across occupied land in the south and east.&nbsp;

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Ukraine announced on Saturday that it has downed a Russian hypersonic Kinzhal missile for the first time amid continuous attacks by Moscow that took place in the night between last Wednesday and Thursday in Kyiv.

Ukraine announced on Saturday that it has downed a Russian hypersonic Kinzhal missile for the first time amid continuous attacks by Moscow that took place in the night between last Wednesday and Thursday in Kyiv. The downing of Russian hypersonic missiles is being seen as a major setback to Russia's campaign of long-range air strikes. The Ukraine Air Force announced that they shot down the Kh-47 Kinzhal missile in the skies of Kyiv using a US Patriot air defence system in the skies at around 2:30 am on Thursday (2330 GMT Wednesday). "I congratulate the Ukrainian people on the historic event," said Ukrainian Air Force Commander General Mykola Oleshchuk on Telegram. "Yes, we shot down the 'unparallelled' Kinzhal' missile," he added. The US Patriot system is among an array of sophisticated air defence units which was supplied to Ukraine by the West to repel Russia's month-long campaign of air strikes which had targeted the country's power facilities, critical infrastructure, and other sites. ALSO READ | Ukraine shoots down its own drone that 'lost control' over Kyiv What is a Kinzhal missile? The word Kinzhal means "dagger" in Russian. Kinzhal missile is among the six "next generation" weapons which President Vladimir Putin had unveiled in 2018 and had boasted as one of those missiles which cannot be shot down by any air defence system of the world. Putin had termed Kinzhal missile as "an ideal weapon" that the missile defences find extremely difficult to intercept. According to the Russian military, the ballistic missile boasts a range of up to 2,000km (1,250 miles) and flies 10 times faster than the speed of sound which makes it difficult to intercept. The ballistic missile is capable of carrying conventional or nuclear warheads. Kinzhal missile is 8 metres long, has a body diameter of 1 metrer, and its launch weight is approximately 4,300 kg. The missile has been designed to be launched using MiG-31 fighter jets from an altitude of about 18 km (59,000 ft). During all stages of the flight, this missile manoeuvres to overcome hostile air defence systems. How much damage can a Kinzhal missile cause? Although Russia has claimed that the missile is among “next generation” systems, however, experts in the West say that these claims are exaggerated. The Centre for Strategic and International Studies states that “Russia’s designation of the Kinzhal as a ‘hypersonic’ missile is somewhat misleading, as nearly all ballistic missiles reach hypersonic speeds… at some point during their flight.” Meanwhile, the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence said that the use of the Kinzhal was “likely intended to detract from a lack of progress in Russia’s ground campaign” and “unlikely to materially affect the outcome of Russia’s campaign” in Ukraine. The major difference between Kinzhal and its purported predecessor is that the missile is launched using an airborne vehicle and not from the ground, which makes it less predictable and more difficult to intercept, and also more survivable compared to the Iskander ground system. The Kinzhal missile can also be seen as a precision weapon which can easily strike key targets like command centres and with its high speed, the missile can easily penetrate even deeply buried bunkers. However, for achieving such a feat, good information about the target location is required. Even though Kinzhal is considered as a dangerous weapon, most analysts agree that it is not very different from weapons which have been in use for decades. Any previous use of Kinzhal for the attack was not previously disclosed by the Air Force, although Kyiv officials immediately stated that there has been an involvement of a ballistic missile. WATCH | Is Russia's attempt of invading Ukraine fading away? | Russia-Ukraine War Ukraine's efforts to strengthen the air defence system Ukraine also appealed to the Western allies to help in reinforcing the country's air defence system as its energy infrastructure has been pounded by Russia from the air over winter. Ukraine in mid-April received the first Patriots which is considered as one of the most advanced air defence systems of the United States. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the system would "significantly" strengthen the defences of the country against Russian strikes. Many civilians have lost their lives in the attacks which were escalated by Russia in October ahead of winter. The Russian strikes failed to The strikes failed to paralyse the power grid but led to major power outages. Russia has constantly denied targeting civilians. Russia made the air strikes on Thursday a day after it accused Ukraine of making a failed attempt to assassinate President Vladimir Putin through a drone attack over the Kremlin citadel in Moscow and said that it would retaliate. Since then, Moscow has accused Washington of being involved in the assassination plan but the allegations were denied by both the United States and Ukraine. The drone and missile attacks over regions of Ukraine have been intensified by Russia in the past week as Kyiv prepares for a counter-offensive against the Russian army who have dug in across occupied land in the south and east. (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

Explained | Ukraine downs Russia’s hypersonic Kinzhal missile. Here’s all you need to know

Tensions continue to rise between Ukraine and Russia as Moscow has ordered the evacuation of families with children and the elderly from areas in southern Ukraine that are held by Russia. The evacuation is due to the increase in shelling from the Ukrainian side, which has intensified in recent days.

Yevgeny Balitsky, the Russian-installed head of the Zaporizhzhia region, announced the evacuation on social media. He stated that the decision was made to prioritize the safety of vulnerable groups such as children, parents, elderly people, disabled people, and hospital patients.

Watch:&nbsp;Did Ukraine try to assassinate Russian President Putin?

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"There will be a temporary evacuation from 18 places," Balitsky wrote, "including the town of Enerhodar, where the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is located." The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is Europe's largest and has been held by Russia since the beginning of the conflict. It is now near the front line, and its proximity to the fighting has caused international concern.

<h2>Major dam damaged in southern Ukraine&nbsp;</h2>

In addition to the shelling, a Russian official has warned that record-high water levels could overwhelm a major dam in southern Ukraine and damage parts of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station. Renat Karchaa, an adviser to the general director of nuclear energy firm Rosenergoatom, said that if the Nova Kakhovka dam did rupture, the power cable line for the Zaporizhzhia plant's pumping stations would be flooded.&nbsp;This would create functional problems for the operation of the plant and risks for nuclear safety.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doomed-to-perish-russias-wagner-announces-withdrawal-from-bakhmut-589161">Also Read |&nbsp;'Doomed to perish': Russia's Wagner announces withdrawal from Bakhmut, cites lack of ammo</a>

"Both sides have accused each other of planning to breach the dam using explosives, which would flood much of the area downstream and would likely cause major destruction around Kherson," Karchaa said. 
 
The situation at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant has been a cause for concern for several months.

In late March, Ukrainian officials had expressed concern that the plant could face a shortage of water to cool its reactors by late summer because Russian forces had let water out of a reservoir that supplied the plant.

Russian troops took over the plant as they invaded parts of Ukraine last year, and it has been at the centre of a nuclear security crisis due to near-constant shelling in its vicinity, which Kyiv and Moscow blame on each other.

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Tensions continue to rise between Ukraine and Russia as Moscow has ordered the evacuation of families with children and the elderly from areas in southern Ukraine that are held by Russia.

Tensions continue to rise between Ukraine and Russia as Moscow has ordered the evacuation of families with children and the elderly from areas in southern Ukraine that are held by Russia. The evacuation is due to the increase in shelling from the Ukrainian side, which has intensified in recent days. Yevgeny Balitsky, the Russian-installed head of the Zaporizhzhia region, announced the evacuation on social media. He stated that the decision was made to prioritize the safety of vulnerable groups such as children, parents, elderly people, disabled people, and hospital patients. Watch: Did Ukraine try to assassinate Russian President Putin? × "There will be a temporary evacuation from 18 places," Balitsky wrote, "including the town of Enerhodar, where the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is located." The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is Europe's largest and has been held by Russia since the beginning of the conflict. It is now near the front line, and its proximity to the fighting has caused international concern. Major dam damaged in southern Ukraine In addition to the shelling, a Russian official has warned that record-high water levels could overwhelm a major dam in southern Ukraine and damage parts of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station. Renat Karchaa, an adviser to the general director of nuclear energy firm Rosenergoatom, said that if the Nova Kakhovka dam did rupture, the power cable line for the Zaporizhzhia plant's pumping stations would be flooded. This would create functional problems for the operation of the plant and risks for nuclear safety. Also Read | 'Doomed to perish': Russia's Wagner announces withdrawal from Bakhmut, cites lack of ammo "Both sides have accused each other of planning to breach the dam using explosives, which would flood much of the area downstream and would likely cause major destruction around Kherson," Karchaa said. The situation at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant has been a cause for concern for several months. In late March, Ukrainian officials had expressed concern that the plant could face a shortage of water to cool its reactors by late summer because Russian forces had let water out of a reservoir that supplied the plant. Russian troops took over the plant as they invaded parts of Ukraine last year, and it has been at the centre of a nuclear security crisis due to near-constant shelling in its vicinity, which Kyiv and Moscow blame on each other. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Families evacuated from Russia-held regions in Ukraine amid fears of nuclear disaster at Zaporizhzhia plant

In a pretty dramatic announcement, in a video released by Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin said that his forces will pull out of Bakhmut on May 10. This is the same city that Wagner group have been trying to capture since August-September last year.

Wagner Chief says 'casualties would have been fewer if Moscow gave enough ammo supply'

Wagner Chief slams Russia's Defence Minister, 'They have gone down in history as cowards'

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - Wagner Chief lambasts Russia's Defence Minister, Second mass shooting in Serbia in less than 48 hours, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese frustrated over Assange's detention, China says US should stop its global cyber attacks.

Wagner Chief lambasts Russia's Defence Minister | Second mass shooting in Serbia | WION Speed News

Russia's Wagner Group, in a major shift of tactical goalpost during ongoing Russia-Ukraine war,&nbsp;announced that it will withdraw from the Bakhmut region where the battle to overrun Ukrainian resistance is continuing with sharp intensity for nearly two months.&nbsp;

Wagner founder Yevgeny Prigozhin said in a statement on Friday that the lack of ammunition was the reason for the withdrawal.

"I am pulling Wagner units out of Bakhmut because in the absence of ammunition they are doomed to perish senselessly," Prigozhin said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-group-will-soon-cease-to-exist-founder-tells-war-blogger-587166">Wagner group will soon cease to exist: Founder tells war blogger</a>

Wagner's positions in Bakhmut will be transferred to Russia's regular forces, Prigozhin said.&nbsp;

Earlier on Friday, Prigozhin published a video of himself standing among, what were referred to as, bloodied 'Wagner lads'. He blamed Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu for the loss of lives Wagner Group faced in Bakhmut over past many weeks of fighting with the Ukrainian forces.&nbsp;

"These are Wagner lads who died today. The blood is still fresh," Prigozhin said. "They came here as volunteers and they are dying so you can get fat in your offices."

The battle for strategically important Bakhmut has become a tactical flashpoint between Russia and Ukraine. The battle for Bakhmut is among the longest and bloodiest of the war, with severe losses on both the Russian and Ukrainian sides.

Wagner in the recent past called upon Moscow to boost ammunition supply-lines towards it.

<h2>Kremlin's reaction on Wagner's Bakhmut withdrawal</h2>

Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the Kremlin has seen Yevgeny Prigozhin's statement that announced group's removal from Bakhmut region.

Peskov said he had seen reports in the media, but "cannot comment on this, because it concerns the special military operation".&nbsp;

Speaking of contacts between Russia and United States after purported drone attacks on the Kremlin, Peskov said "any contacts are possible" for reaching Russia's own goals, for providing Russia's interests.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Russia still fighting for control in Bakhmut

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"Of course, contacts will continue, if necessary," Peskov added.

Russia claimed it foiled an attack by Ukrainian drones on the Kremlin early Wednesday, calling it an unsuccessful assassination attempt against President Vladimir Putin and promising retaliation for what it termed a “terrorist” act.

The Kremlin alleges that the United States&nbsp;was behind the purported drone attacks.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky denied that Ukraine was behind the purported attacks, saying: “We don't attack Putin or Moscow.”

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; 
 
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Russia's Wagner Group, in a major shift of tactical goalpost during ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, announced that it will withdraw from the Bakhmut region where the battle to overrun Ukrainian resistance is continuing with sharp intensity for nearly two months.

Russia's Wagner Group, in a major shift of tactical goalpost during ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, announced that it will withdraw from the Bakhmut region where the battle to overrun Ukrainian resistance is continuing with sharp intensity for nearly two months. Wagner founder Yevgeny Prigozhin said in a statement on Friday that the lack of ammunition was the reason for the withdrawal. "I am pulling Wagner units out of Bakhmut because in the absence of ammunition they are doomed to perish senselessly," Prigozhin said. ALSO READ | Wagner group will soon cease to exist: Founder tells war blogger Wagner's positions in Bakhmut will be transferred to Russia's regular forces, Prigozhin said. Earlier on Friday, Prigozhin published a video of himself standing among, what were referred to as, bloodied 'Wagner lads'. He blamed Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu for the loss of lives Wagner Group faced in Bakhmut over past many weeks of fighting with the Ukrainian forces. "These are Wagner lads who died today. The blood is still fresh," Prigozhin said. "They came here as volunteers and they are dying so you can get fat in your offices." The battle for strategically important Bakhmut has become a tactical flashpoint between Russia and Ukraine. The battle for Bakhmut is among the longest and bloodiest of the war, with severe losses on both the Russian and Ukrainian sides. Wagner in the recent past called upon Moscow to boost ammunition supply-lines towards it. Kremlin's reaction on Wagner's Bakhmut withdrawal Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the Kremlin has seen Yevgeny Prigozhin's statement that announced group's removal from Bakhmut region. Peskov said he had seen reports in the media, but "cannot comment on this, because it concerns the special military operation". Speaking of contacts between Russia and United States after purported drone attacks on the Kremlin, Peskov said "any contacts are possible" for reaching Russia's own goals, for providing Russia's interests. ALSO WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia still fighting for control in Bakhmut × "Of course, contacts will continue, if necessary," Peskov added. Russia claimed it foiled an attack by Ukrainian drones on the Kremlin early Wednesday, calling it an unsuccessful assassination attempt against President Vladimir Putin and promising retaliation for what it termed a “terrorist” act. The Kremlin alleges that the United States was behind the purported drone attacks. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky denied that Ukraine was behind the purported attacks, saying: “We don't attack Putin or Moscow.” 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.

‘Doomed to perish’: Russia’s Wagner announces withdrawal from Bakhmut, cites lack of ammo

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (May 3) that his country did not attack Russian President Vladimir Putin after Moscow claimed that two drones were shot down over the Kremlin and termed it an assassination attempt.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (May 3) that his country did not attack Russian President Vladimir Putin after Moscow claimed that two drones were shot down over the Kremlin and termed it an assassination attempt. "We didn't attack Putin... We fight on our territory, we are defending our villages and cities," Zelensky told reporters at a press conference with Nordic leaders in Finland's capital city Helsinki. "We fight on our territory. We are defending our villages and cities. We don't have, you know, enough weapons for this, that's why we don't use it anywhere. For us that is the deficit, we can't spend it and we didn't attack Putin. We leave it to the tribunal," Zelensky added. ALSO READ | Russia arrests Ukraine sabotage group's members for planning 'assassinations' Zelensky arrived in Finland earlier in the day and held talks with Finnish President Sauli Niinisto. He thanked Niinisto for the military support to Ukraine so far and said the two have agreed to speed up further deliveries. The Ukrainian president also participated in a summit in Helsinki which saw a gathering of the leaders of the five Nordic nations. Zelensky reaffirmed that Ukraine aims to be a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), while the Nordic NATO members said they would "continue to support Ukraine on its path towards future membership." Zelensky's visit to Finland was announced only after his arrival amid tight security in the Finnish capital. Recently, Finland joined NATO in response to Russia's offensive in Ukraine. Hitting back at the membership of the intergovernmental military alliance, Russia said Finland's accession to NATO was a dangerous historic mistake that would weaken security in the wider region and force Moscow to take counter-measures. Medvedev calls for 'elimination' of Zelensky As Russia accused Ukraine of a drone attack on the Kremlin, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev called for the physical elimination of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his clique in Kyiv. "After today's terrorist attack, there are no options left aside from the physical elimination of Zelensky and his cabal," Medvedev said. (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.

We didn't attack Putin: Ukraine's Zelensky as Nordic nations pledge continued support

Oil depots in both Ukraine and Russia caught fire on Wednesday as the drone war between the two countries targeting infrastructure escalated ahead of the planned spring counter-offensive of Kyiv.&nbsp;

Thousands of firefighters tried to control the huge fire at an oil terminal on the Russian side for which Moscow blamed a Ukrainian drone attack.

Meanwhile, a fuel depot in the central city of Kropyvnytskyi, Ukraine also caught fire after a suspected Russian drone strike.

Across Ukraine, a drone hit an administrative building in the southern Dnipropetrovsk region igniting a fire. Ukraine claimed to have shot down around 21 of 26 Iranian-made drones.

Long-range strikes are being launched by the two sides since last week in anticipation of the upcoming counteroffensive of Ukraine, which is expected to mark the most decisive phases of the ongoing war.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-military-suffered-100000-casualties-in-last-five-months-white-house-588028">Russia's military suffered 100,000 casualties in last five months: White House</a>

A wave of missiles was fired by Russia last Friday, which included one that killed 23 civilians sleeping in an apartment building in Uman, a city which lies hundreds of miles from the front.

A suspected Ukrainian drone strike on Saturday put&nbsp;a Russian oil terminal on fire in occupied Crimea. Dozens of homes as well as one industrial enterprise were&nbsp;hit by Russia in the Dnipropetrovsk region on Monday which Kyiv did not identify. Meanwhile, freight trains were derailed in blasts that took place on the last two days in a row in Russia’s Bryansk region near border with Ukraine.&nbsp;

Moscow claims military targets have been struck by its long-range attacks though no evidence has been produced by it to support this.

No comments were made by Kyiv on incidents in occupied Crimea or Russia but it said that destroying infrastructure which supports the Russian military is part of Ukraine's preparation for its planned ground assault.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war : Kyiv's spring offensive begins with assassination bid on Putin

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Black smoke and flames billowed over big tanks which had red warnings of “Flammable” in videos shared by Russian social media.&nbsp;

“The fire has been classified as the highest rank of difficulty,” said Veniamin Kondratyev, governor of the Krasnodar region on the Telegram messaging app, further stating that there were no casualties.

Citing emergency services, Russia’s TASS news agency said that the facility caught fire due to the drone strike. Moscow also blamed another drone for a huge fire caused in Crimea, in Sevastopol, which is the naval base of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet.

(With inputs from agencies)

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<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

Oil depots in both Ukraine and Russia caught fire on Wednesday as the drone war between the two countries targeting infrastructure escalated ahead of the planned spring counter-offensive of Kyiv.

Oil depots in both Ukraine and Russia caught fire on Wednesday as the drone war between the two countries targeting infrastructure escalated ahead of the planned spring counter-offensive of Kyiv. Thousands of firefighters tried to control the huge fire at an oil terminal on the Russian side for which Moscow blamed a Ukrainian drone attack. Meanwhile, a fuel depot in the central city of Kropyvnytskyi, Ukraine also caught fire after a suspected Russian drone strike. Across Ukraine, a drone hit an administrative building in the southern Dnipropetrovsk region igniting a fire. Ukraine claimed to have shot down around 21 of 26 Iranian-made drones. Long-range strikes are being launched by the two sides since last week in anticipation of the upcoming counteroffensive of Ukraine, which is expected to mark the most decisive phases of the ongoing war. ALSO READ | Russia's military suffered 100,000 casualties in last five months: White House A wave of missiles was fired by Russia last Friday, which included one that killed 23 civilians sleeping in an apartment building in Uman, a city which lies hundreds of miles from the front. A suspected Ukrainian drone strike on Saturday put a Russian oil terminal on fire in occupied Crimea. Dozens of homes as well as one industrial enterprise were hit by Russia in the Dnipropetrovsk region on Monday which Kyiv did not identify. Meanwhile, freight trains were derailed in blasts that took place on the last two days in a row in Russia’s Bryansk region near border with Ukraine. Moscow claims military targets have been struck by its long-range attacks though no evidence has been produced by it to support this. No comments were made by Kyiv on incidents in occupied Crimea or Russia but it said that destroying infrastructure which supports the Russian military is part of Ukraine's preparation for its planned ground assault. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war : Kyiv's spring offensive begins with assassination bid on Putin Black smoke and flames billowed over big tanks which had red warnings of “Flammable” in videos shared by Russian social media. “The fire has been classified as the highest rank of difficulty,” said Veniamin Kondratyev, governor of the Krasnodar region on the Telegram messaging app, further stating that there were no casualties. Citing emergency services, Russia’s TASS news agency said that the facility caught fire due to the drone strike. Moscow also blamed another drone for a huge fire caused in Crimea, in Sevastopol, which is the naval base of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet. (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

Oil depots in Russia and Ukraine on fire, warring nations blame drone attacks

In an audio message published on social media, Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of Russia’s Wagner Group, on Wednesday (May 3), said he believes&nbsp;that Ukraine has “already begun” its counter-offensive. This comes after he claimed that his forces have seen heightened activity by Ukrainian troops along the front lines.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the death toll from Russian strikes on the country’s southern Kherson region has risen to 21 after authorities in Kyiv said Russian strikes hit both the city and nearby villages.&nbsp;

The Pentagon, on Wednesday, announced a $300 million military aid package to Ukraine as it prepares for the spring counter-offensive.&nbsp;

Wagner chief about Ukraine’s spring offensive

In the clip posted on social media, Prigozhin also said that the “active phase” of Ukraine's counteroffensive would begin in the coming days. “I believe the advance of the Ukrainian army has already begun...We are seeing the greatest possible activity both on the perimeter and within the front lines,” said the Wagner chief, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

He added, “I therefore believe that it has all already started. And I believe it will all enter an active phase in the very near future. It could be a matter of days.” This comes as the Ukrainian forces have long promised to launch a counteroffensive and start taking back territory in the east which Russia has occupied after it began its invasion in February 2022.&nbsp;

In a subsequent statement, Prigozhin said his forces have advanced some 700 feet in the eastern Ukrainian town of Bakhmut which has witnessed some of the most intense battles since the conflict began, reported Reuters. 
 
He also reiterated his complaint about the Russian government ignoring his pleas to increase supplies of shells and said, “We only have resources for a few days. They (ministry of defence)&nbsp;ignore all requests from Wagner.”&nbsp;

Zelensky about shelling in Kherson&nbsp;

Zelensky took to Telegram and said, “As of now, 21 people have been killed! 48 wounded!” Officials in the region also imposed a curfew in the main city of Kherson starting Friday. The Ukrainian president also said the strikes hit “a railway station and a crossing, a house, a hardware store, a grocery supermarket and a gas station.”&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
He also published images of bodies and wounded people on the floor of a supermarket and said “The world needs to see and know this.” According to Kherson prosecutors, who have since called these attacks “massive,” 12 people were killed in the city and others in nearby villages.&nbsp;

“On the morning of May 3, Russian troops began massive shelling of the city of Kherson and the region's settlements,” said the prosecutors, as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;

United States announces more aid for Ukraine

The United States, on Wednesday, announced that it is sending a new $300 million military aid package to Ukraine which will also include “additional ammunition” for the US-provided HIMARS.&nbsp;

Among other weapons, are “howitzers, artillery and mortar rounds, and anti-armour capabilities,” which the US says, “Ukraine is using to push back against Russia’s unprovoked war of aggression.” Notably, the US has now committed a little over $35 billion in military to Ukraine.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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.

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In an audio message published on social media, Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of Russia’s Wagner Group, on Wednesday (May 3), said he believes that Ukraine has “already begun” its counter-offensive.

In an audio message published on social media, Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of Russia’s Wagner Group, on Wednesday (May 3), said he believes that Ukraine has “already begun” its counter-offensive. This comes after he claimed that his forces have seen heightened activity by Ukrainian troops along the front lines. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the death toll from Russian strikes on the country’s southern Kherson region has risen to 21 after authorities in Kyiv said Russian strikes hit both the city and nearby villages. The Pentagon, on Wednesday, announced a $300 million military aid package to Ukraine as it prepares for the spring counter-offensive. Wagner chief about Ukraine’s spring offensive In the clip posted on social media, Prigozhin also said that the “active phase” of Ukraine's counteroffensive would begin in the coming days. “I believe the advance of the Ukrainian army has already begun...We are seeing the greatest possible activity both on the perimeter and within the front lines,” said the Wagner chief, as quoted by Reuters. He added, “I therefore believe that it has all already started. And I believe it will all enter an active phase in the very near future. It could be a matter of days.” This comes as the Ukrainian forces have long promised to launch a counteroffensive and start taking back territory in the east which Russia has occupied after it began its invasion in February 2022. In a subsequent statement, Prigozhin said his forces have advanced some 700 feet in the eastern Ukrainian town of Bakhmut which has witnessed some of the most intense battles since the conflict began, reported Reuters. He also reiterated his complaint about the Russian government ignoring his pleas to increase supplies of shells and said, “We only have resources for a few days. They (ministry of defence) ignore all requests from Wagner.” Zelensky about shelling in Kherson Zelensky took to Telegram and said, “As of now, 21 people have been killed! 48 wounded!” Officials in the region also imposed a curfew in the main city of Kherson starting Friday. The Ukrainian president also said the strikes hit “a railway station and a crossing, a house, a hardware store, a grocery supermarket and a gas station.” He also published images of bodies and wounded people on the floor of a supermarket and said “The world needs to see and know this.” According to Kherson prosecutors, who have since called these attacks “massive,” 12 people were killed in the city and others in nearby villages. “On the morning of May 3, Russian troops began massive shelling of the city of Kherson and the region's settlements,” said the prosecutors, as quoted by AFP. United States announces more aid for Ukraine The United States, on Wednesday, announced that it is sending a new $300 million military aid package to Ukraine which will also include “additional ammunition” for the US-provided HIMARS. Among other weapons, are “howitzers, artillery and mortar rounds, and anti-armour capabilities,” which the US says, “Ukraine is using to push back against Russia’s unprovoked war of aggression.” Notably, the US has now committed a little over $35 billion in military to Ukraine. (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 You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Wagner leader says Ukraine counter-offensive has begun; Kherson shelling toll rises to 21

Ukraine President Zelensky has denied that his country carried out alleged 'Drone attack' which Russia says was an attempt to kill Russian President Putin.

Russia alleges US planned Kremlin attack, Ukraine carries it

Western hypocrisy is at play again. This time, in an attempt to get Russian oil via a back door. How is Russian oil reaching Europe? How has Europe re-routed Russian oil? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: India becomes Europe's largest exporter of refined oil

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview published on Tuesday (May 2) that he wasn't informed about the leaks of secret US documents. In an interview with the Washington Post, Zelensky said: "I did not receive information from the White House or the Pentagon beforehand."&nbsp;

He added, "It is unprofitable for us. It is not beneficial to the reputation of the White House, and I believe it is not beneficial to the reputation of the United States."&nbsp;

In the aftermath of the leak of the documents, which remained in the headlines last month, US officials said they were investigating the matter. The Pentagon had said that the leak presents a "very serious" risk to national security.&nbsp;

When the documents appeared online, they become an embarrassment and also a headache for the US authorities as highly sensitive military and defence documents were shared and circulated on multiple social media platforms. The leak released details of secret information linked to the Ukraine war, Israel's spy agency Mossad, South Korea, and more.&nbsp;

The set of leaked documents, labelled as "Secret" and "Top Secret", included materials related to Ukraine and its military, telling a partial tale of the ongoing war. The Ukrainian defence minister, Oleksii Reznikov, said on April 12 that the Pentagon document leaks contained a mixture of true and false information about his country's military and downplayed its negative impact.&nbsp;

One document suggested that the Ukrainian air defences are in deep crisis. The air defence systems have emerged as one of Ukraine's key strengths to counter Russian missile and drone strikes. Ukraine even urged the allies to supply fighter jets to help in its fight against Russian aggression.&nbsp;

Documents show that the munitions for Soviet-era air defence systems deployed by Ukraine will soon run out and a document dated February indicates that the S300 missile defence system is expected to run out of munitions by May this year and the SA-11 Gadfly system at the end of March.&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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After Zelensky's comments, a spokesperson for the White House National Security Council said: "We are in constant communication with our Ukrainian counterparts about a range of issues, including over the unauthorized disclosures, but we aren’t going to get into the details of those private discussions."&nbsp;

Pentagon Press Secretary Patrick Ryder said that US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had spoken to a number of allies, including Reznikov.&nbsp;Ryder told CNN: "Austin has conducted a large number of phone calls, conducted a large amount of outreach to our allies and partners around the world to discuss the matter with them, to highlight how seriously we are taking this issue, to include several conversations with his Ukrainian counterpart, minister Reznikov."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Volodymyr Zelensky

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview published on Tuesday (May 2) that he wasn't informed about the leaks of secret US documents. In an interview with the Washington Post, Zelensky said: "I did not receive information from the White House or the Pentagon beforehand.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview published on Tuesday (May 2) that he wasn't informed about the leaks of secret US documents. In an interview with the Washington Post, Zelensky said: "I did not receive information from the White House or the Pentagon beforehand." He added, "It is unprofitable for us. It is not beneficial to the reputation of the White House, and I believe it is not beneficial to the reputation of the United States." In the aftermath of the leak of the documents, which remained in the headlines last month, US officials said they were investigating the matter. The Pentagon had said that the leak presents a "very serious" risk to national security. When the documents appeared online, they become an embarrassment and also a headache for the US authorities as highly sensitive military and defence documents were shared and circulated on multiple social media platforms. The leak released details of secret information linked to the Ukraine war, Israel's spy agency Mossad, South Korea, and more. The set of leaked documents, labelled as "Secret" and "Top Secret", included materials related to Ukraine and its military, telling a partial tale of the ongoing war. The Ukrainian defence minister, Oleksii Reznikov, said on April 12 that the Pentagon document leaks contained a mixture of true and false information about his country's military and downplayed its negative impact. One document suggested that the Ukrainian air defences are in deep crisis. The air defence systems have emerged as one of Ukraine's key strengths to counter Russian missile and drone strikes. Ukraine even urged the allies to supply fighter jets to help in its fight against Russian aggression. Documents show that the munitions for Soviet-era air defence systems deployed by Ukraine will soon run out and a document dated February indicates that the S300 missile defence system is expected to run out of munitions by May this year and the SA-11 Gadfly system at the end of March. Watch this report: × After Zelensky's comments, a spokesperson for the White House National Security Council said: "We are in constant communication with our Ukrainian counterparts about a range of issues, including over the unauthorized disclosures, but we aren’t going to get into the details of those private discussions." Pentagon Press Secretary Patrick Ryder said that US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had spoken to a number of allies, including Reznikov. Ryder told CNN: "Austin has conducted a large number of phone calls, conducted a large amount of outreach to our allies and partners around the world to discuss the matter with them, to highlight how seriously we are taking this issue, to include several conversations with his Ukrainian counterpart, minister Reznikov." (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. Volodymyr Zelensky

Volodymyr Zelensky says White House did not warn him about secret documents’ leak

Russian security service on Wednesday said it arrested members of a Ukrainian group notorious for its anti-Russia acts in the recent past after pre-empting a series of attacks in Moscow-administered territories in Crimea.

The preempted attacks also included assassinations.

On Wednesday, footage of two drones being exploded over the Kremlin went viral. Russia alleged these drones belonged to Ukraine, and deemed it an assassination bid on President Vladimir Putin. The Kremlin also vowed&nbsp;retaliatory action against the overnight drone attack attempt at the heart of the Russian corridor of power.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosive-device-causes-freight-train-derailment-in-russian-region-near-ukraine-588336">‘Explosive device’ causes another freight train derailment in Russian region near Ukraine</a>

"The FSB has broken up the activities of an agent network of Ukrainian military intelligence planning to carry out major sabotage and terrorist attacks in Crimea," the security service said in a statement.

The FSB said it had detained seven people and seized explosive devices and detonators.

It said the bomb components had been smuggled into Russia from Bulgaria via Turkey and Georgia.

The FSB said that the group had been planning to assassinate political leaders including the administrative head of Crimea, Sergei Aksyonov.

Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Kyiv denies involvement in Nord Stream pipelines sabotage

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"There is no doubt that the people who ordered these crimes are in Kyiv," Aksyonov said on his Telegram channel.

The FSB said the same group had carried out a railway sabotage in February.

Russia has witnessed a string of sabotage attacks in the country in recent days.

On Monday, an "explosive device" derailed a freight train in the Russian region of Bryansk, bordering Ukraine, without causing any casualties, according to the region's governor, Alexander Bogomaz. The explosion occurred "50 meters" from the train, according to the Belarusian railroad company, which said in a statement that it was one of its own, departing from the city of Gomel, Belarus, heading to Bryansk.&nbsp;

A day earlier on Monday, a high-voltage line was damaged by another explosive device in the northwestern region of Leningrad, near the border with Estonia and Finland, local governor Aleksandr Drozdenko announced. An investigation for "sabotage" was opened.

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Russian security service on Wednesday said it arrested members of a Ukrainian group notorious for its anti-Russia acts in the recent past after pre-empting a series of attacks in Moscow-administered territories in Crimea.

Russian security service on Wednesday said it arrested members of a Ukrainian group notorious for its anti-Russia acts in the recent past after pre-empting a series of attacks in Moscow-administered territories in Crimea. The preempted attacks also included assassinations. On Wednesday, footage of two drones being exploded over the Kremlin went viral. Russia alleged these drones belonged to Ukraine, and deemed it an assassination bid on President Vladimir Putin. The Kremlin also vowed retaliatory action against the overnight drone attack attempt at the heart of the Russian corridor of power. ALSO READ | ‘Explosive device’ causes another freight train derailment in Russian region near Ukraine "The FSB has broken up the activities of an agent network of Ukrainian military intelligence planning to carry out major sabotage and terrorist attacks in Crimea," the security service said in a statement. The FSB said it had detained seven people and seized explosive devices and detonators. It said the bomb components had been smuggled into Russia from Bulgaria via Turkey and Georgia. The FSB said that the group had been planning to assassinate political leaders including the administrative head of Crimea, Sergei Aksyonov. Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014. ALSO WATCH | Kyiv denies involvement in Nord Stream pipelines sabotage × "There is no doubt that the people who ordered these crimes are in Kyiv," Aksyonov said on his Telegram channel. The FSB said the same group had carried out a railway sabotage in February. Russia has witnessed a string of sabotage attacks in the country in recent days. On Monday, an "explosive device" derailed a freight train in the Russian region of Bryansk, bordering Ukraine, without causing any casualties, according to the region's governor, Alexander Bogomaz. The explosion occurred "50 meters" from the train, according to the Belarusian railroad company, which said in a statement that it was one of its own, departing from the city of Gomel, Belarus, heading to Bryansk. A day earlier on Monday, a high-voltage line was damaged by another explosive device in the northwestern region of Leningrad, near the border with Estonia and Finland, local governor Aleksandr Drozdenko announced. An investigation for "sabotage" was opened. 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 arrests Ukraine sabotage group's members for planning 'assassinations'

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