India's love for cheap oil from Russia is hurting the country's rupee trade plan. Data based on figures from the trade ministry showed India's imports from Russia in the eight months leading up to November were about 16 times greater than its exports.

India's Russian oil buy hurting Rupee trade

IOC president Thomas Bach has told Ukraine its calls to boycott the 2024 Paris Games over the possible participation of Russian competitors goes against Olympic “principles” as his organisation was accused of being “on the wrong side of history”.

Ukraine’s call to boycott Paris 2024 over Russian participation against Olympic principles, says IOC

After winning a record 10th Australian Open on Sunday, Novak Djokovic reflected on his father's absence in the stadium. The 22-time Grand Slam champion said he was 'hurt' that his old man was not there to witness him emerge victorious.

After winning a record 10th Australian Open on Sunday, Novak Djokovic reflected on his father's absence in the stadium. The 22-time Grand Slam champion said he was 'hurt' that his old man was not there to witness him emerge victorious. "I thought the things will calm down in terms of media and everything, but it didn't," Djokovic told the reporters before adding, "We both agreed it would probably be better that he is not there." "That hurts me, and him, a lot because these are very special unique moments. Who knows if they will repeat again. So, it was not easy for him." Djokovic informed that he hugged his father after the match, away from the court and that he looked sad. "He was not feeling his best, let's say, even though he was very happy to hug me. I could see that he was a bit sad. Look, it is what it is. I think, in the end, what he told me is that it's important that I feel good on the court. I win the match and he's here for me," added Djokovic. WATCH | Novak Djokovic wins 10th Australian Open Title, beats Tsitispas × After Djokovic's father Srdjan Djokovic was pictured posing with a Russian flag-holding fan, Australian Open chief Craig Tiley issued a warning saying the family needed to be 'really careful' as the tournament was a platform that could be used by people for 'disruptive' purposes. "My advice is that you have to be really careful because if this is an event of global significance, it's a platform," said Tiley. After the controversy snowballed, Djokovic senior preferred to skip his son's semifinal as well as the final match. Read more: 'Be really careful...' Australian Open chief warns Djokovic and family after Russian flag controversy Djokovic won the final against Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/5) in straight sets in front of a packed Rod Laver Arena. After winning the match, an emotional Djokovic climbed up to the player's box to embrace his family members and coaches. He celebrated with them and cried inconsolably. However, a notable absence was that of his father. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'That hurts me...': Djokovic on his father not present at the Australian Open final

Ukraine's eastern salt mining town of Soledar hung in the balance as Russia's mercenary firm Wagner claimed control, but continued fighting and Kyiv's assertion earlier that its forces were holding out raised uncertainty.

Russian mercenaries claim to capture Ukraine's Soledar amid fierce fighting

Russian space agency Roscosmos released a video on Thursday (December 29) of cosmonauts Sergey Prokopiev, Anna Kikina and Dmitry Petelin decorating the International Space Station for the New Year.

Russian cosmonauts put up New Year decorations in zero gravity

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.

Around 40 per cent of the total population in Kyiv was left without electricity after the recent wave of Russian missile strikes on the Ukrainian capital, mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Thursday.

"Forty per cent of the capital's consumers are without electricity after the Russian attack," Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on social media in the aftermath of the massive missile strikes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-blaze-engulfs-cambodia-hotel-casino-killing-10-injuring-30-547526">Deadly Cambodia casino fire leaves 10 dead as people jump to escape the blaze</a>

Earlier, three people were injured as Russia launched “more than hundred” missiles towards Ukraine with Kyiv, Kharkiv and Lviv being the worst hit. Lviv, a city quite close to the border with Poland, was completely left without electricity, mayor Andriy Sadoviy said on social media platform Telegram.

"The enemy is attacking Ukraine from various directions with air and sea-based cruise missiles from strategic aircraft and ships," Ukraine's air force said on social media according to Reuters.

While no official number was provided by the Russian authorities, Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhaylo Podolyak said that more than 120 missiles had been fired by the 'evil Russian world’.

WATCH |&nbsp;What is Ukraine President Zelensky's 10-point peace plan?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-is-ukraine-president-zelenskys-10-point-peace-plan-547614/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We're waiting for further proposals from peacekeepers," he added in the Twitter post.

Kharkiv governor Oleg Synegubov and mayor Igor Terekhov also said that the city’s "critical infrastructure" was targeted with major parts getting hit by as many as four missiles.

The Ukrainian army also released an official statement claiming that the defence system was successful in shooting down 54 out of 69 missiles which were launched by Russia.

"According to preliminary data, 69 missiles were launched in total. Fifty-four enemy cruise missiles were shot down," Ukraine's commander-in-chief General Valeriy Zaluzhny said.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1"></iframe>

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.

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. Around 40 per cent of the total population in Kyiv was left without electricity after the recent wave of Russian missile strikes on the Ukrainian capital, mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Thursday. "Forty per cent of the capital's consumers are without electricity after the Russian attack," Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on social media in the aftermath of the massive missile strikes. Also read | Deadly Cambodia casino fire leaves 10 dead as people jump to escape the blaze Earlier, three people were injured as Russia launched “more than hundred” missiles towards Ukraine with Kyiv, Kharkiv and Lviv being the worst hit. Lviv, a city quite close to the border with Poland, was completely left without electricity, mayor Andriy Sadoviy said on social media platform Telegram. "The enemy is attacking Ukraine from various directions with air and sea-based cruise missiles from strategic aircraft and ships," Ukraine's air force said on social media according to Reuters. While no official number was provided by the Russian authorities, Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhaylo Podolyak said that more than 120 missiles had been fired by the 'evil Russian world’. WATCH | What is Ukraine President Zelensky's 10-point peace plan? "We're waiting for further proposals from peacekeepers," he added in the Twitter post. Kharkiv governor Oleg Synegubov and mayor Igor Terekhov also said that the city’s "critical infrastructure" was targeted with major parts getting hit by as many as four missiles. The Ukrainian army also released an official statement claiming that the defence system was successful in shooting down 54 out of 69 missiles which were launched by Russia. "According to preliminary data, 69 missiles were launched in total. Fifty-four enemy cruise missiles were shot down," Ukraine's commander-in-chief General Valeriy Zaluzhny said. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia’s barrage of missiles leaves 40 per cent of Kyiv population without power

A couple has been arrested by the Swedish security forces in Stockholm as the married couple in their 60s are suspected of spying for Russia, according to authorities local media reported. Reportedly, the couple belongs to Russia and had moved to Sweden shortly before 2000.

Sweden: Couple arrested on suspicion of spying for Russia; third suspect bought in for questioning

Following an overnight trip from Kyiv, the first passenger train arrived in Kherson since Russian forces withdrew from the city on November 11th

Ukraine rolls first passenger train into newly freed Kherson

After Russia announced an extended halt of the Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline, European Union (EU) Economy Commissioner Paolo Gentiloni on Saturday stated that the 27-nation bloc is 'ready to react' in case of a total halt of Russian gas deliveries.

After Russia announced an extended halt of the Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline, European Union (EU) Economy Commissioner Paolo Gentiloni on Saturday stated that the 27-nation bloc is 'ready to react' in case of a total halt of Russian gas deliveries. “We expect that Russia is respecting the contracts that they have but even if the weaponisation of energy will continue or will increase in response to our decisions, I think that the European Union is ready to react," said Gentiloni. Read more: Russian energy giant Gazprom halts Nord Stream 1 gas supplies for maintenance Asserting that Brussels was not afraid of the Russian president, Gentiloni added, “We are not afraid of Putin's decisions. We asked Putin to respect their contracts but if they don’t respect their contracts then we are ready to react.” As reported extensively by WION, after G7 nations on Friday vowed to "urgently" implement a price cap on Russian oil imports, Kremlin swung into action and immediately announced that the resumption of the Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline will be delayed due to 'leakages' in sections of the pipeline. Read more: G7 nations talk of implementing Russian oil price cap 'urgently' In a statement, Gazprom indicated it had discovered "oil leaks" in a turbine during a planned three-day maintenance operation and that "until it is repaired... the transport of gas via Nord Stream is completely suspended". Moreover, Moscow's decision to halt the gas supplies came in the backdrop of the EU agreeing on the proposition to suspend a 2007 visa travel deal, under which Russian tourists entering the bloc for holidays, shopping and other reasons will be curbed. "We agreed on full suspension of the European Union-Russia visa facilitation agreement. This will significantly reduce the number of new visas issued by the EU member states. It's going to be more difficult, it's going to take longer," said Josep Borrell, EU’s high representative for foreign policy. Read more: EU agrees to suspend visa travel deal with Russia. Defers full tourist visa ban The European Union, along with other western countries have been on Russia's tail since February in the form of sanctions and other restrictions. However, so far, it is the EU that is paying much of the price for its stand. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'We are ready to react', says EU economics chief over halted Russian gas supplies

Former state TV journalist Marina Ovsyannikova was placed under house detention until October by a Russian court on Thursday after she publicly condemned President Vladimir Putin's invasion on Ukraine. Ovsyannikova, 44, was taken into custody by detectives on Wednesday and accused of disseminating rumours about the Russian military that the administration had considered incorrect. If found guilty, the mother of two may spend up to 10 years in prison.

Ovsyannikova, then a television editor for Channel One, made headlines across the world in March when she stormed the Vremya (Time) evening news set while carrying a placard that read "No War." However, the house arrest is unrelated to that specific protest. It is connected to a one-person demonstration that Ovsyannikova staged in mid-July close to the Kremlin, during which she carried a sign that read, "Putin is a murderer, his soldiers are fascists."

In front of her, three "blood-soaked" dolls were arranged on the ground. She was put in a cage Thursday at the Basmanny district court in Moscow, where she was guarded by numerous police officers. "May the dead children haunt you in your dreams," read the sign she was holding.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-vicious-cycle-of-amazon-rainforest-fire-and-climate-change-in-brazil-506094">Explained: Vicious cycle of Amazon rainforest fire and climate change in Brazil</a>

On the messaging service Telegram, her attorney Dmitry Zakhvatov claimed that "even" the most vicious serial killer from the Soviet Union, Andrei Chikatilo, wasn't being guarded with such vigilance. The court determined that Ovsyankova should be under house arrest until October 9 during a hearing behind closed doors. Russia has essentially banned criticism of Putin's decision to send soldiers to Ukraine on February 24.

Ovsyannikova, who spent 19 years working for Russian official television, has been offered refuge or other forms of diplomatic protection by French President Emmanuel Macron. Ilya Yashin and Vladimir Kara-Murza, two famous Putin critics, were imprisoned pending trial earlier this year for opposing Moscow's operation in Ukraine. Ovsyannikova was the subject of a criminal investigation after she was fined by two Moscow courts for disparaging the Russian army on several occasions.

(with inputs from agencies)

Former state TV journalist Marina Ovsyannikova was placed under house detention until October by a Russian court on Thursday after she publicly condemned President Vladimir Putin's invasion on Ukraine.

Former state TV journalist Marina Ovsyannikova was placed under house detention until October by a Russian court on Thursday after she publicly condemned President Vladimir Putin's invasion on Ukraine. Ovsyannikova, 44, was taken into custody by detectives on Wednesday and accused of disseminating rumours about the Russian military that the administration had considered incorrect. If found guilty, the mother of two may spend up to 10 years in prison. Ovsyannikova, then a television editor for Channel One, made headlines across the world in March when she stormed the Vremya (Time) evening news set while carrying a placard that read "No War." However, the house arrest is unrelated to that specific protest. It is connected to a one-person demonstration that Ovsyannikova staged in mid-July close to the Kremlin, during which she carried a sign that read, "Putin is a murderer, his soldiers are fascists." In front of her, three "blood-soaked" dolls were arranged on the ground. She was put in a cage Thursday at the Basmanny district court in Moscow, where she was guarded by numerous police officers. "May the dead children haunt you in your dreams," read the sign she was holding. Also Read: Explained: Vicious cycle of Amazon rainforest fire and climate change in Brazil On the messaging service Telegram, her attorney Dmitry Zakhvatov claimed that "even" the most vicious serial killer from the Soviet Union, Andrei Chikatilo, wasn't being guarded with such vigilance. The court determined that Ovsyankova should be under house arrest until October 9 during a hearing behind closed doors. Russia has essentially banned criticism of Putin's decision to send soldiers to Ukraine on February 24. Ovsyannikova, who spent 19 years working for Russian official television, has been offered refuge or other forms of diplomatic protection by French President Emmanuel Macron. Ilya Yashin and Vladimir Kara-Murza, two famous Putin critics, were imprisoned pending trial earlier this year for opposing Moscow's operation in Ukraine. Ovsyannikova was the subject of a criminal investigation after she was fined by two Moscow courts for disparaging the Russian army on several occasions. (with inputs from agencies)

Russian court orders house arrest for former state TV journalist who raised 'No War' poster

Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov is currently on his much-ambitious African tour. During his visit, Lavrov offered reassurances over Russia's grain deal.

Russian FM Sergei Lavrov is on Africa tour, offers reassurances over Russia's grain supplies

Over the past week or so, news had&nbsp;been circulating about fake IPL being conducted in Gujarat. Now, the culprit behind the fake IPL racket has finally been nabbed. As per the Gujarat police, the mastermind behind the fake IPL is a Russian and not an Indian.&nbsp;

As per a report in the Times of India, a Russian named Efimov is behind the whole scam.&nbsp;Till now, it was believed that Asif Mohammed and Ashok Chaudhary were behind the racket, however, a new twist came into the picture as a Russian citizen&nbsp;by the name of 'Efimov' had plotted the whole scam.&nbsp;It was confirmed via the sleuths of Gujarat's Mehsana police.

For the unversed, the fake IPL-like&nbsp;league&nbsp;was not only conducted&nbsp;in Molipur but also in other places such as&nbsp;Meerut,&nbsp;Pune, and Jalandhar. A Mehsana police officer said, "The scrutiny of Telegram chats of the accused persons has revealed that Efimov is the mastermind. Asif Mohammed and Ashok Chaudhary were working for Efimov, and they planned the fake IPL in Molipur and other places. Asif is a Pakistani citizen while Ashok is an Indian."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-t20is-no-virat-kohli-and-jasprit-bumrah-as-r-ashwin-kl-rahul-return-in-rohit-sharma-led-squad-497285">WI T20Is: No Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah as R Ashwin, KL Rahul return in Rohit Sharma-led squad</a>

After a&nbsp;probe commenced with regard to the fake cricket league, a similar racket came into the scene after being reported&nbsp;by Hapur police in Meerut (in Uttar Pradesh). As per the Mehsana SOG sources, it was revealed that the gang focused on conducting matches&nbsp;to ensure the regular cash inflow from Russian punters who frequent pubs in Tver, Voronezh and Moscow.

"Shoeb Davda, one of the accused who was caught from Molipur, had lived in Russia for eight months. He had returned to India only recently. Mohammed and Chaudhary had instructed him to organize a T20 cricket tournament to accept bets. It is he who had suggested that the matches be held in Molipur since it was an ideal location to pull off the con," pointed out a police officer.

"They held at least 20 matches in Meerut. In case of any suspicion that their match venue was under scanner, they would leave the venue and choose another. Some matches were also played in Pune and Jalandhar. We are investigating them,"&nbsp;the officer further added.

Over the past week or so, news had been circulating about fake IPL being conducted in Gujarat. Now, the culprit behind the fake IPL racket has finally been nabbed.

Over the past week or so, news had been circulating about fake IPL being conducted in Gujarat. Now, the culprit behind the fake IPL racket has finally been nabbed. As per the Gujarat police, the mastermind behind the fake IPL is a Russian and not an Indian. As per a report in the Times of India, a Russian named Efimov is behind the whole scam. Till now, it was believed that Asif Mohammed and Ashok Chaudhary were behind the racket, however, a new twist came into the picture as a Russian citizen by the name of 'Efimov' had plotted the whole scam. It was confirmed via the sleuths of Gujarat's Mehsana police. For the unversed, the fake IPL-like league was not only conducted in Molipur but also in other places such as Meerut, Pune, and Jalandhar. A Mehsana police officer said, "The scrutiny of Telegram chats of the accused persons has revealed that Efimov is the mastermind. Asif Mohammed and Ashok Chaudhary were working for Efimov, and they planned the fake IPL in Molipur and other places. Asif is a Pakistani citizen while Ashok is an Indian." ALSO READ | WI T20Is: No Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah as R Ashwin, KL Rahul return in Rohit Sharma-led squad After a probe commenced with regard to the fake cricket league, a similar racket came into the scene after being reported by Hapur police in Meerut (in Uttar Pradesh). As per the Mehsana SOG sources, it was revealed that the gang focused on conducting matches to ensure the regular cash inflow from Russian punters who frequent pubs in Tver, Voronezh and Moscow. "Shoeb Davda, one of the accused who was caught from Molipur, had lived in Russia for eight months. He had returned to India only recently. Mohammed and Chaudhary had instructed him to organize a T20 cricket tournament to accept bets. It is he who had suggested that the matches be held in Molipur since it was an ideal location to pull off the con," pointed out a police officer. "They held at least 20 matches in Meerut. In case of any suspicion that their match venue was under scanner, they would leave the venue and choose another. Some matches were also played in Pune and Jalandhar. We are investigating them," the officer further added.

Mastermind behind fake IPL matches in Gujarat nabbed: Report

British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said that their government is mulling to replicate Canada and seizing the assets of Russians in the UK in order to give them to Ukraine.

The move comes hours ahead of Truss’s meeting on Monday in Lugano, Switzerland, which will be attended by most of Ukraine’s senior political leadership either in person or virtually. The conference will focus on Ukrainian reconstruction.

It has been estimated that over 120,000 homes in Ukraine have been destroyed in the war and the country will require billions in aid to help rebuild its infrastructure and economy.

According to The Guardian, Truss told MPs last week that the government could seize frozen Russian assets in the UK and redistribute them to victims of Russia’s war in Ukraine.

&nbsp;“I am supportive of the concept. We are looking at it very closely. The Canadians have in fact just passed legislation This is an issue that we are working on jointly with the Home Office and the Treasury, but I certainly agree with the concept. We just need to get the specifics of it right,” she was quoted as saying.

She said the initiative would “most probably” need legislation but not necessarily.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-armys-twitter-and-youtube-accounts-hacked-494317" hreflang="en">British Army’s Twitter, YouTube accounts hacked to display crypto scams</a>

Currently, the UK has the power to suspend Russian assets under the Economic Crime Act for 56 days and roll over the suspension for a further 56 days. In that period the owner of the asset cannot benefit from the asset in any way.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-mps-seek-ban-on-chinese-cos-making-cctvs-used-in-xinjiang-494326" hreflang="en">UK MPs seek ban on Chinese cos making CCTVs used in Xinjiang</a>

At the conference, Truss’ main aim is to position the UK as Ukraine’s key partner in the recovery process. Britain has already offered $1.5bn to the country through multilateral loan guarantees and more than £100m in bilateral support, reports the UK-based newspaper.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said that their government is mulling to replicate Canada and seizing the assets of Russians in the UK in order to give them to Ukraine.

British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said that their government is mulling to replicate Canada and seizing the assets of Russians in the UK in order to give them to Ukraine. The move comes hours ahead of Truss’s meeting on Monday in Lugano, Switzerland, which will be attended by most of Ukraine’s senior political leadership either in person or virtually. The conference will focus on Ukrainian reconstruction. It has been estimated that over 120,000 homes in Ukraine have been destroyed in the war and the country will require billions in aid to help rebuild its infrastructure and economy. According to The Guardian, Truss told MPs last week that the government could seize frozen Russian assets in the UK and redistribute them to victims of Russia’s war in Ukraine. “I am supportive of the concept. We are looking at it very closely. The Canadians have in fact just passed legislation This is an issue that we are working on jointly with the Home Office and the Treasury, but I certainly agree with the concept. We just need to get the specifics of it right,” she was quoted as saying. She said the initiative would “most probably” need legislation but not necessarily. Also read | British Army’s Twitter, YouTube accounts hacked to display crypto scams Currently, the UK has the power to suspend Russian assets under the Economic Crime Act for 56 days and roll over the suspension for a further 56 days. In that period the owner of the asset cannot benefit from the asset in any way. Also read | UK MPs seek ban on Chinese cos making CCTVs used in Xinjiang At the conference, Truss’ main aim is to position the UK as Ukraine’s key partner in the recovery process. Britain has already offered $1.5bn to the country through multilateral loan guarantees and more than £100m in bilateral support, reports the UK-based newspaper. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK mulling seizure of Russian assets to give to Ukraine: Foreign Secretary Liz Truss

Since the outbreak of war, over $330 billion in financial resources, which were owned by Russia's elite and the central bank, have been frozen by the sanctions task force of leading Ukraine allies, the group said on Wednesday. In a joint statement, the Russian Elites, Proxies, and Oligarchs Task Force (REPO) said that they have blocked $30 billion in assets belonging to Russian oligarchs and officials. They have also immobilised $300 billion, which were owned by the Russian central bank. At least five luxury yachts have also been detained. The opulent real estate, which was owned by the country's billionaires, has also been frozen. &nbsp;

In a statement released by the US Treasury, the group said, "Together, we will ensure that our sanctions continue to impose costs on Russia for its unprovoked and continuing aggression in Ukraine." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-first-country-other-than-russia-to-recognise-ukraine-separatist-republics-of-donetsk-and-lugansk-493080">Syria recognises Ukraine separatist republics of Donetsk and Lugansk</a>

The members of REPO include top finance and justice officials of the United States, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Japan, Australia, Britain and the European Commission. &nbsp;&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

REPO has said that it would continue to pursue the assets of Russians. “REPO's work is not yet complete. We continue to increase Russia's cost of its war," they said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Since the outbreak of war, over $330 billion in financial resources, which were owned by Russia's elite and the central bank, have been frozen by the sanctions task force of leading Ukraine allies, the group said on Wednesday.

Since the outbreak of war, over $330 billion in financial resources, which were owned by Russia's elite and the central bank, have been frozen by the sanctions task force of leading Ukraine allies, the group said on Wednesday. In a joint statement, the Russian Elites, Proxies, and Oligarchs Task Force (REPO) said that they have blocked $30 billion in assets belonging to Russian oligarchs and officials. They have also immobilised $300 billion, which were owned by the Russian central bank. At least five luxury yachts have also been detained. The opulent real estate, which was owned by the country's billionaires, has also been frozen. In a statement released by the US Treasury, the group said, "Together, we will ensure that our sanctions continue to impose costs on Russia for its unprovoked and continuing aggression in Ukraine." Also Read: Syria recognises Ukraine separatist republics of Donetsk and Lugansk The members of REPO include top finance and justice officials of the United States, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Japan, Australia, Britain and the European Commission. WATCH WION LIVE HERE REPO has said that it would continue to pursue the assets of Russians. “REPO's work is not yet complete. We continue to increase Russia's cost of its war," they said. (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. ×

More than $330 billion of Russian assets frozen by Ukraine allies till now

As they waited for the arrival of U.S. President Joe Biden and other world leaders in the high-security NATO summit venue on the outskirts of Madrid on Tuesday, international officials and journalists were bemused to find "Russian&nbsp;Salad" on the top of the in-house restaurant menu.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-to-invite-finland-and-sweden-to-join-alliance-after-turkiye-lifts-objections-492760">NATO to invite Finland and Sweden to join alliance after Türkiye lifts objections</a>

The melange of peas, potatoes, carrots and mayonnaise is a staple on Spanish restaurant menus but ahead of a summit at which Russia is expected to be labelled as a security threat in the alliance's new strategic concept over its invasion of Ukraine, its presence on the menu caused consternation.

"Russian&nbsp;salad&nbsp;at a NATO summit? I'm a little surprised by that choice of dish," journalist Iñaki López told Spanish media outlet La Sexta.

Watch |&nbsp;Spain lobbies NATO, allies over Ukraine-driven migration

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/spain-lobbies-nato-allies-over-ukraine-driven-migration-492481/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The dish's attractively high carb content appeared to trump its questionable name however, and it reportedly sold out within hours.

More diplomatic thought was applied to the menu served to visiting defence and foreign ministers at a banquet at the Baroque Santa Cruz Palace in Central Madrid on Tuesday evening.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-to-pledge-aid-to-baltics-and-ukraine-urge-turkey-to-let-in-nordics-492254">NATO to pledge aid to Baltics and Ukraine, urge Turkey to let in Nordics</a>

Jose Andres, the Spanish chef featured in the Netflix series Chef's Table who coordinated the meal, served the classic tapa but added "tomato dumplings" and re-christened it "Ukrainian&nbsp;salad" as he has done in his restaurants across Spain.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

As they waited for the arrival of U.S. President Joe Biden and other world leaders in the high-security NATO summit venue on the outskirts of Madrid on Tuesday, international officials and journalists were bemused to find "Russian Salad" on the top of the in-house restaurant menu.

As they waited for the arrival of U.S. President Joe Biden and other world leaders in the high-security NATO summit venue on the outskirts of Madrid on Tuesday, international officials and journalists were bemused to find "Russian Salad" on the top of the in-house restaurant menu. Also read | NATO to invite Finland and Sweden to join alliance after Türkiye lifts objections The melange of peas, potatoes, carrots and mayonnaise is a staple on Spanish restaurant menus but ahead of a summit at which Russia is expected to be labelled as a security threat in the alliance's new strategic concept over its invasion of Ukraine, its presence on the menu caused consternation. "Russian salad at a NATO summit? I'm a little surprised by that choice of dish," journalist Iñaki López told Spanish media outlet La Sexta. Watch | Spain lobbies NATO, allies over Ukraine-driven migration The dish's attractively high carb content appeared to trump its questionable name however, and it reportedly sold out within hours. More diplomatic thought was applied to the menu served to visiting defence and foreign ministers at a banquet at the Baroque Santa Cruz Palace in Central Madrid on Tuesday evening. Also read | NATO to pledge aid to Baltics and Ukraine, urge Turkey to let in Nordics Jose Andres, the Spanish chef featured in the Netflix series Chef's Table who coordinated the meal, served the classic tapa but added "tomato dumplings" and re-christened it "Ukrainian salad" as he has done in his restaurants across Spain. 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.

'Russian Salad' on the menu at NATO summit cafe in Madrid raises eyebrows

The biggest leak of methane gas in the world seems to have occurred at a coalmine in Russia, media reports said citing satellite data. This comes as the world is looking to take measures to cut emissions to keep a check on climate change. In January, around 90 tonnes of methane gas were released per hour from the Raspadskaya mine in Kemerovo Oblast. It is the largest coalmine in Russia. The release is enough to run around five coal-fired power stations. If this amount of gas could have been used for the whole year, it would have been enough to power 2.4 million homes. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The gas leak was first traced to the source in January, as per GHGSat data. It is a Canada-based commercial satellite monitoring company. The firm believes that this is the biggest leak ever traced to a single source. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/is-it-a-warning-microplastics-breach-another-frontier-now-found-in-freshly-fallen-snow-in-antarctica-486183" hreflang="en">Is it a warning?&nbsp;Microplastics breach another frontier, now found in freshly fallen snow in Antarctica</a>

Around 13 distinct methane plumes were measured from the mine. They had ranged in size from 658 to 17,994 kg per hour, GHGSat said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“We are seeing an increase in methane from this site generally, which could be the result of increased coal production, linked to global trends in coal use,” said Brody Wight, director of energy, landfill and mines at GHGSat. &nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Climate crisis: How can coastal areas survive rise in sea level?

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/climate-crisis-how-can-coastal-areas-survive-rise-in-sea-level-483615/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Now, the mine seems to be leaking gas at a low rate. The leak also seems to have been happening for around six months before the survey in January. &nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

The biggest leak of methane gas in the world seems to have occurred at a coalmine in Russia, media reports said citing satellite data. This comes as the world is looking to take measures to cut emissions to keep a check on climate change.

The biggest leak of methane gas in the world seems to have occurred at a coalmine in Russia, media reports said citing satellite data. This comes as the world is looking to take measures to cut emissions to keep a check on climate change. In January, around 90 tonnes of methane gas were released per hour from the Raspadskaya mine in Kemerovo Oblast. It is the largest coalmine in Russia. The release is enough to run around five coal-fired power stations. If this amount of gas could have been used for the whole year, it would have been enough to power 2.4 million homes. The gas leak was first traced to the source in January, as per GHGSat data. It is a Canada-based commercial satellite monitoring company. The firm believes that this is the biggest leak ever traced to a single source. Also Read: Is it a warning? Microplastics breach another frontier, now found in freshly fallen snow in Antarctica Around 13 distinct methane plumes were measured from the mine. They had ranged in size from 658 to 17,994 kg per hour, GHGSat said. “We are seeing an increase in methane from this site generally, which could be the result of increased coal production, linked to global trends in coal use,” said Brody Wight, director of energy, landfill and mines at GHGSat. Watch | Climate crisis: How can coastal areas survive rise in sea level? Now, the mine seems to be leaking gas at a low rate. The leak also seems to have been happening for around six months before the survey in January. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (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. ×

Climate change: Biggest methane gas leak occurred at Russian coalmine, say reports

Russian bombing of a school in Ukraine's village of Bilohorivka has claim two lives and 60 trapped in the debris are feared dead, said Serhiy Gaidai, governor of the Luhansk region.

The governor said that Russia dropped a bomb on the school on Saturday afternoon. About 90 people were sheltering in the school. The bombing caused a fire in the building. Thirty people have been rescued.

"The fire was extinguished after nearly four hours, then the rubble was cleared, and, unfortunately, the bodies of two people were found," Gaidai wrote on wrote in a post on the Telegram messaging app. "Sixty people were likely to have died under the rubble of buildings."

Watch | Russia-Ukraine crisis: China rejects America's claim, says countries distorting our position 
&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-crisis-china-rejects-americas-claim-says-countries-distorting-our-position-477253/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Separately, Gaidai said that according to preliminary information, shelling in the village of Shypilovo destroyed a house and 11 people remained under the building's debris.

News agency Reuters said that it could not immediately verify the reports.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-300-people-evacuated-from-azovstal-steel-plant-says-ukrainian-president-zelensky-477243">Over 300 civilians evacuated from Azovstal steel plant, says Ukrainian President Zelensky</a>

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that over 300 people (civilians) have been evacuated from Mariupol steel plant. Ukrainian soldiers are still holed-up inside the Azovstal steel factory. It is the last pocket of Ukrainian resistance in the key port city. Russia has already declared that Mariupol is under its control.

(With inputs from agencies)

Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Russian bombing of a school in Ukraine's village of Bilohorivka has claim two lives and 60 trapped in the debris are feared dead, said Serhiy Gaidai, governor of the Luhansk region.

Russian bombing of a school in Ukraine's village of Bilohorivka has claim two lives and 60 trapped in the debris are feared dead, said Serhiy Gaidai, governor of the Luhansk region. The governor said that Russia dropped a bomb on the school on Saturday afternoon. About 90 people were sheltering in the school. The bombing caused a fire in the building. Thirty people have been rescued. "The fire was extinguished after nearly four hours, then the rubble was cleared, and, unfortunately, the bodies of two people were found," Gaidai wrote on wrote in a post on the Telegram messaging app. "Sixty people were likely to have died under the rubble of buildings." Watch | Russia-Ukraine crisis: China rejects America's claim, says countries distorting our position × Separately, Gaidai said that according to preliminary information, shelling in the village of Shypilovo destroyed a house and 11 people remained under the building's debris. News agency Reuters said that it could not immediately verify the reports. Also Read | Over 300 civilians evacuated from Azovstal steel plant, says Ukrainian President Zelensky Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that over 300 people (civilians) have been evacuated from Mariupol steel plant. Ukrainian soldiers are still holed-up inside the Azovstal steel factory. It is the last pocket of Ukrainian resistance in the key port city. Russia has already declared that Mariupol is under its control. (With inputs from agencies) Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russian bombing of Ukrainian school kills 2, sixty trapped under rubble: Governor

United Nations and Ukrainian officials said on Wednesday (May 4) that Russian soldiers were allegedly raping men and boys in Ukraine.

“I have received reports, not yet verified… about sexual violence cases against men and boys in Ukraine.” said Pramila Patten, Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict.

She underlined challenges male survivors of rape would face in reporting the crime. She said that while it was hard for women to report sexual violence due to the social stigma, it may be even harder for men to admit and openly report that they had been sexually assaulted.

'Bloody battles' continue inside Azovstal steel plant, at least 200 civilians trapped

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bloody-battles-continue-inside-azovstal-steel-plant-at-least-200-civilians-trapped-476443/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“I am working with the different UN agencies to ensure that there are services adapted to the needs of men and boys, because everywhere in many conflict situations, I have observed that there is a lack of services adapted to the needs of men and boys,” she added.

Patten said that cases of sexual assault against men reported and under investigation till now were just "tip of the iceberg". &nbsp;

She urged survivors of sexual violence to come forward and report the cases to the authorities.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-troops-fight-for-control-of-last-ukrainian-stronghold-in-mariupol-476439">Russian troops fight for control of last Ukrainian stronghold in Mariupol</a>

“My promise to you is that international law will not be an empty promise. Today’s documentation will be tomorrow’s prosecution. And I want you to know that your rights don’t end when wars begin,” she said.

Pramila Patten was speaking at a press conference in Kyiv. With her was Olha Stefanishyna, Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration.

She described sexual violence in war as “one of the most silent types of crime”.

(With inputs from agencies)

Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

United Nations and Ukrainian officials said on Wednesday (May 4) that Russian soldiers were allegedly raping men and boys in Ukraine. “I have received reports, not yet verified… about sexual violence cases against men and boys in Ukraine.

United Nations and Ukrainian officials said on Wednesday (May 4) that Russian soldiers were allegedly raping men and boys in Ukraine. “I have received reports, not yet verified… about sexual violence cases against men and boys in Ukraine.” said Pramila Patten, Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict. She underlined challenges male survivors of rape would face in reporting the crime. She said that while it was hard for women to report sexual violence due to the social stigma, it may be even harder for men to admit and openly report that they had been sexually assaulted. 'Bloody battles' continue inside Azovstal steel plant, at least 200 civilians trapped × “I am working with the different UN agencies to ensure that there are services adapted to the needs of men and boys, because everywhere in many conflict situations, I have observed that there is a lack of services adapted to the needs of men and boys,” she added. Patten said that cases of sexual assault against men reported and under investigation till now were just "tip of the iceberg". She urged survivors of sexual violence to come forward and report the cases to the authorities. Also Read | Russian troops fight for control of last Ukrainian stronghold in Mariupol “My promise to you is that international law will not be an empty promise. Today’s documentation will be tomorrow’s prosecution. And I want you to know that your rights don’t end when wars begin,” she said. Pramila Patten was speaking at a press conference in Kyiv. With her was Olha Stefanishyna, Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration. She described sexual violence in war as “one of the most silent types of crime”. (With inputs from agencies) Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russian soldiers are raping men and boys in Ukraine, says UN official

In a Russian missile strike, a runway of an airport in the southwestern port of Odesa has been damaged, making it unusable, the Ukrainian military said on Saturday. &nbsp;

"As a result of a missile attack in the Odesa region, the runway at Odesa airport was damaged. Its further use is impossible," the Ukrainian military said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This comes as Russian armed forces have claimed to hit 17 Ukrainian military facilities on Saturday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/surprising-in-three-months-five-russian-oligarchs-found-dead-families-of-3-businessmen-killed-too-475202" hreflang="en">In three months, five Russian oligarchs found dead; families of 3 killed too</a>

The Russians said that they used high-precision missiles. They have also claimed to destroy a command post and a warehouse, which was used to store rockets and artillery. &nbsp;

During the day, air force strikes killed over 200 Ukrainian troops and destroyed 23 armoured vehicles, the defence ministry said in an online post. &nbsp;

It did not say anything about the attack on the Odesa airport. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Report by a think tank: US &amp; EU import oil from Russia despite attack on Ukraine

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/report-by-a-think-tank-us-eu-import-oil-from-russia-despite-attack-on-ukraine-475292/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, in remarks published on Russian foreign ministry's website, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov had said that lifting Western sanctions on Russia was a part of the talks. But it was denied by senior Ukrainian negotiator Mykhailo Podolyak. &nbsp;&nbsp;

A prisoner exchange was also held by Ukraine with Russia on Saturday. In it, seven soldiers and seven civilians came home, said deputy prime minister Iryna Vereshchuk in an online post. However, she did not say how many Russians were transferred. &nbsp;&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

(With inputs from agencies)

In a Russian missile strike, a runway of an airport in the southwestern port of Odesa has been damaged, making it unusable, the Ukrainian military said on Saturday.

In a Russian missile strike, a runway of an airport in the southwestern port of Odesa has been damaged, making it unusable, the Ukrainian military said on Saturday. "As a result of a missile attack in the Odesa region, the runway at Odesa airport was damaged. Its further use is impossible," the Ukrainian military said. This comes as Russian armed forces have claimed to hit 17 Ukrainian military facilities on Saturday. Also Read: In three months, five Russian oligarchs found dead; families of 3 killed too The Russians said that they used high-precision missiles. They have also claimed to destroy a command post and a warehouse, which was used to store rockets and artillery. During the day, air force strikes killed over 200 Ukrainian troops and destroyed 23 armoured vehicles, the defence ministry said in an online post. It did not say anything about the attack on the Odesa airport. Watch: Report by a think tank: US & EU import oil from Russia despite attack on Ukraine × Meanwhile, in remarks published on Russian foreign ministry's website, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov had said that lifting Western sanctions on Russia was a part of the talks. But it was denied by senior Ukrainian negotiator Mykhailo Podolyak. A prisoner exchange was also held by Ukraine with Russia on Saturday. In it, seven soldiers and seven civilians came home, said deputy prime minister Iryna Vereshchuk in an online post. However, she did not say how many Russians were transferred. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

In Russian missile strike, Odesa airport gets damaged, says Ukrainian military  

Since the conflict between Russia and Ukraine escalated in last three months, at least five Russian oligarchs have been found dead, as per media reports. The authorities are claiming these deaths are suicides. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Families of three of these businessmen have also been reportedly killed. Four of these men were linked with Russian state-owned energy giant Gazprom or its subsidiaries, said reports. &nbsp;

On January 30, 2022, a top executive at Gazprom was found dead in his cottage in Leninsky village, as per Russian state media RIA Novosti. A suicide note was found at the scene, reported RIA. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cruelty-and-depravity-us-blasts-putin-as-russia-carries-out-airstrikes-against-kyiv-475068" hreflang="en">'Cruelty &amp; depravity': US blasts Putin amid Russian airstrikes on Kyiv</a>&nbsp;

The man was identified as Leonid Shulman, head, transport, Gazprom Invest, said Russian national broadcaster RenTv. &nbsp;

In the same village, Alexander Tyulakov, who was also a top executive at Gazprom, was found dead in his garage on February 25, an independent Russian newspaper Novaya Gazeta said. It also reported that he died by suicide. &nbsp;

A Russian billionaire, who was born in Ukraine, was also found dead in his Surrey home in England on February 28. He was identified as Mikhail Watford. The death is currently being investigated by the coroner and a hearing will be held on July 29, Surrey Police told CNN. &nbsp;

Russian businessman Vasily Melnikov, who owned medical supplies company MedStom, was found dead with his family in Nizhny Novgorod in March, said a report by Russian newspaper Kommersant. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Russia energy giant Gazprom lands record high profit of $29 billion in 2021

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-energy-giant-gazprom-lands-record-high-profit-of-29-billion-in-2021-474816/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

And lastly, this month, two Russian oligarchs, Vladislav Avayev and Sergey Protosenya, were also found dead in their homes along with their families in apparent murder-suicide incidents. The development had prompted investigations by police, said local media reports in Russia and Spain. &nbsp; &nbsp;

In Moscow, Avayev, who was a former vice president of privately-owned Russian bank, Gazprombank, was found dead along with his wife and daughter in his apartment, as per TASS. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

All of the dead had gunshot wounds. It prompted police to investigate the suicide angle, thinking Avayev may have shot his family members first and then himself. &nbsp; &nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Authorities had not identified victims, but Russian news outlets reported citing sources that it was Avayev and his family. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

On the next day and over 2,000 miles away, Protosenya was also found hanged in his home, as per Spanish TV channel Telecinco. Oligarch’s wife and daughter were also fatally stabbed, the authorities said. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Spanish authorities were also working on theory that Protosenya may have killed his family and committed suicide.&nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Since the conflict between Russia and Ukraine escalated in last three months, at least five Russian oligarchs have been found dead, as per media reports. The authorities are claiming these deaths are suicides.

Since the conflict between Russia and Ukraine escalated in last three months, at least five Russian oligarchs have been found dead, as per media reports. The authorities are claiming these deaths are suicides. Families of three of these businessmen have also been reportedly killed. Four of these men were linked with Russian state-owned energy giant Gazprom or its subsidiaries, said reports. On January 30, 2022, a top executive at Gazprom was found dead in his cottage in Leninsky village, as per Russian state media RIA Novosti. A suicide note was found at the scene, reported RIA. Also Read: 'Cruelty & depravity': US blasts Putin amid Russian airstrikes on Kyiv The man was identified as Leonid Shulman, head, transport, Gazprom Invest, said Russian national broadcaster RenTv. In the same village, Alexander Tyulakov, who was also a top executive at Gazprom, was found dead in his garage on February 25, an independent Russian newspaper Novaya Gazeta said. It also reported that he died by suicide. A Russian billionaire, who was born in Ukraine, was also found dead in his Surrey home in England on February 28. He was identified as Mikhail Watford. The death is currently being investigated by the coroner and a hearing will be held on July 29, Surrey Police told CNN. Russian businessman Vasily Melnikov, who owned medical supplies company MedStom, was found dead with his family in Nizhny Novgorod in March, said a report by Russian newspaper Kommersant. Watch: Russia energy giant Gazprom lands record high profit of $29 billion in 2021 × And lastly, this month, two Russian oligarchs, Vladislav Avayev and Sergey Protosenya, were also found dead in their homes along with their families in apparent murder-suicide incidents. The development had prompted investigations by police, said local media reports in Russia and Spain. In Moscow, Avayev, who was a former vice president of privately-owned Russian bank, Gazprombank, was found dead along with his wife and daughter in his apartment, as per TASS. All of the dead had gunshot wounds. It prompted police to investigate the suicide angle, thinking Avayev may have shot his family members first and then himself. WATCH WION LIVE HERE Authorities had not identified victims, but Russian news outlets reported citing sources that it was Avayev and his family. On the next day and over 2,000 miles away, Protosenya was also found hanged in his home, as per Spanish TV channel Telecinco. Oligarch’s wife and daughter were also fatally stabbed, the authorities said. Spanish authorities were also working on theory that Protosenya may have killed his family and committed suicide. (With inputs from agencies)

In three months, five Russian oligarchs found dead; families of 3 businessmen killed too

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;

Just after the end of a meeting between UN Secretary-General António Guterres and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, around two explosions were heard on Thursday evening in the capital, Kyiv, media reports said. &nbsp;

The explosions led to fires in two high-rise buildings. Plumes of black smoke in the air could be seen from the site of these explosions.&nbsp;According to the authorities, Guterres and his team were safe. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-russians-exert-intense-fire-us-delivers-more-than-half-howitzers-to-ukraine-train-its-officers-474641" hreflang="en">As Russians 'exert intense fire', US delivers 'more than half' howitzers to Ukraine, train its officers</a>

This comes as Russia's foreign spy chief on Thursday has accused the United States and Poland of trying to plot to get a sphere of influence in Ukraine and restore Polish control over parts of western Ukraine. &nbsp;

Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) chief Sergei Naryshkin has cited unpublished intelligence reports to make the claim. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Russia stops exporting gas to Poland &amp; Bulgaria

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-russia-stops-exporting-gas-to-poland-bulgaria-474477/embed" width="560"></iframe>

In a rare statement released by the SVR, Naryshkin, said, "According to the intelligence received by Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service, Washington and Warsaw are working on plans to establish Poland's tight military and political control over its historical possessions in Ukraine." &nbsp;

Calling it disinformation spread by Russia, the claim has been denied by Poland. &nbsp;

"The lies about Poland's alleged plans to attack western Ukraine have been repeated for several years. The aim of Russian propaganda is to foster distrust between Ukraine and Poland, to undermine PL-UA cooperation," said Stanislaw Zaryn, spokesman, Poland's special services coordinator. &nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

(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. Just after the end of a meeting between UN Secretary-General António Guterres and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, around two explosions were heard on Thursday evening in the capital, Kyiv, media reports said. The explosions led to fires in two high-rise buildings. Plumes of black smoke in the air could be seen from the site of these explosions. According to the authorities, Guterres and his team were safe. Also Read: As Russians 'exert intense fire', US delivers 'more than half' howitzers to Ukraine, train its officers This comes as Russia's foreign spy chief on Thursday has accused the United States and Poland of trying to plot to get a sphere of influence in Ukraine and restore Polish control over parts of western Ukraine. Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) chief Sergei Naryshkin has cited unpublished intelligence reports to make the claim. Watch: Gravitas: Russia stops exporting gas to Poland & Bulgaria In a rare statement released by the SVR, Naryshkin, said, "According to the intelligence received by Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service, Washington and Warsaw are working on plans to establish Poland's tight military and political control over its historical possessions in Ukraine." Calling it disinformation spread by Russia, the claim has been denied by Poland. "The lies about Poland's alleged plans to attack western Ukraine have been repeated for several years. The aim of Russian propaganda is to foster distrust between Ukraine and Poland, to undermine PL-UA cooperation," said Stanislaw Zaryn, spokesman, Poland's special services coordinator. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

As explosions rock Kyiv again, Russian spy chief makes glaring accusations

A 30-foot-tall statue, which earlier symbolised the friendship between Ukraine and Russia, has been demolished. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The bronze statue used to show a Ukrainian and a Russian citizen holding a medal. It had depicted the Soviet Union's Order of Friendship of Peoples. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Before the complete destruction was carried out, the authorities in Kyiv removed the head of the figure of the Russian citizen in the statue on Tuesday, media reports said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-drone-maker-suspends-business-with-russia-ukraine-474273" hreflang="en">Chinese drone maker suspends business with Russia, Ukraine</a>

This comes as Russia has stepped up the offensive in the Ukraine war, which has started on February 24. &nbsp;

The Soviet-era statue was installed in the capital city in 1982. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Symbolism fitting the moment. The head of the Russian worker statue pops off and tumbles to the ground, as Kyiv authorities removed part of the Peoples’ Friendship Arch, a monument gifted to Ukraine by Russia in 1982 that was meant to represent unity between them. 🎥 v <a href="https://twitter.com/tweetsNV?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tweetsNV</a> <a href="https://t.co/NJj51J88Xe">pic.twitter.com/NJj51J88Xe</a>
— Christopher Miller (@ChristopherJM) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChristopherJM/status/1519001819099316227?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"We now see what this 'friendship' is — destruction of Ukrainian cities ... killing tens of thousands of peaceful people. I am convinced such a monument has an entirely different meaning now," Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko, a former champion boxer, said on Tuesday. &nbsp;

Around 100 people had witnessed the dismantling of the statue, while cheering and shouting "Glory to Ukraine" and other slogans, as per a Reuters report. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine crisis: Concerns of Russian invasion escalates in Moldova region

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-crisis-concerns-of-russian-invasion-escalates-in-moldova-region-474279/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The large titanium arch, which was placed over the statue, will remain. It will, however, be renamed and altered, as per Klitschko. &nbsp;

The arch, which was earlier called, "The Arch of Friendship of Nations", will now be renamed to "The Arch of Freedom of the Ukrainian People." It will also be highlighted with the colours of the Ukrainian flag. &nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A 30-foot-tall statue, which earlier symbolised the friendship between Ukraine and Russia, has been demolished. The bronze statue used to show a Ukrainian and a Russian citizen holding a medal.

A 30-foot-tall statue, which earlier symbolised the friendship between Ukraine and Russia, has been demolished. The bronze statue used to show a Ukrainian and a Russian citizen holding a medal. It had depicted the Soviet Union's Order of Friendship of Peoples. Before the complete destruction was carried out, the authorities in Kyiv removed the head of the figure of the Russian citizen in the statue on Tuesday, media reports said. Also Read: Chinese drone maker suspends business with Russia, Ukraine This comes as Russia has stepped up the offensive in the Ukraine war, which has started on February 24. The Soviet-era statue was installed in the capital city in 1982. Symbolism fitting the moment. The head of the Russian worker statue pops off and tumbles to the ground, as Kyiv authorities removed part of the Peoples’ Friendship Arch, a monument gifted to Ukraine by Russia in 1982 that was meant to represent unity between them. 🎥 v @tweetsNV pic.twitter.com/NJj51J88Xe — Christopher Miller (@ChristopherJM) April 26, 2022 × "We now see what this 'friendship' is — destruction of Ukrainian cities ... killing tens of thousands of peaceful people. I am convinced such a monument has an entirely different meaning now," Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko, a former champion boxer, said on Tuesday. Around 100 people had witnessed the dismantling of the statue, while cheering and shouting "Glory to Ukraine" and other slogans, as per a Reuters report. Watch: Russia-Ukraine crisis: Concerns of Russian invasion escalates in Moldova region × The large titanium arch, which was placed over the statue, will remain. It will, however, be renamed and altered, as per Klitschko. The arch, which was earlier called, "The Arch of Friendship of Nations", will now be renamed to "The Arch of Freedom of the Ukrainian People." It will also be highlighted with the colours of the Ukrainian flag. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: As offensive intensifies, 30-foot-tall Ukrainian-Russian 'friendship' statue gets demolished in Kyiv  

In just 24 hours, two Russian oligarchs along with their families have been found dead. The unprecedented development has prompted investigations by police, said local media reports in Russia and Spain. &nbsp;

The investigators are looking into all the angles, such as suicide or foul play. &nbsp;

This comes as several sanctions have been imposed on different Russian oligarchs over the Ukraine war. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-want-to-see-the-sun-heart-breaking-video-of-children-holed-up-in-embattled-mariupol-emerges-watch-473389" hreflang="en">'We want to see the sun': Heart-breaking video of children holed up in embattled Mariupol emerges. Watch</a>

Oligarchs, Vladislav Avayev and Sergey Protosenya, were found dead in their homes. Police are also probing domestic disputes in the two cases, the reports said. &nbsp;

The police have registered cases in the deaths and investigations are going on. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In Moscow, Avayev, who is a former vice president of privately-owned Russian bank, Gazprombank, was found dead along with his wife and daughter in his apartment on Monday, as per TASS. &nbsp;&nbsp;

All of the dead persons had gunshot wounds. It has prompted police to investigate the suicide angle, thinking Avayev may have shot his family members first and then himself. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Kharkiv says Over 700 killed since invasion started

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-conflict-kharkiv-says-over-700-killed-since-invasion-started-473411/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Authorities have not identified victims, but Russian news outlets reported citing sources that it was Avayev and his family. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On the next day and over 2,000 miles away, Protosenya was also found hanged in his home, as per Spanish TV channel Telecinco. Oligarch’s wife and daughter were also fatally stabbed, the authorities said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On the side of Protosenya’s body, a bloodstained knife and axe was found. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Spanish authorities are also working on theory that Protosenya may have killed his family and committed suicide. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In just 24 hours, two Russian oligarchs along with their families have been found dead. The unprecedented development has prompted investigations by police, said local media reports in Russia and Spain.

In just 24 hours, two Russian oligarchs along with their families have been found dead. The unprecedented development has prompted investigations by police, said local media reports in Russia and Spain. The investigators are looking into all the angles, such as suicide or foul play. This comes as several sanctions have been imposed on different Russian oligarchs over the Ukraine war. Also Read: 'We want to see the sun': Heart-breaking video of children holed up in embattled Mariupol emerges. Watch Oligarchs, Vladislav Avayev and Sergey Protosenya, were found dead in their homes. Police are also probing domestic disputes in the two cases, the reports said. The police have registered cases in the deaths and investigations are going on. In Moscow, Avayev, who is a former vice president of privately-owned Russian bank, Gazprombank, was found dead along with his wife and daughter in his apartment on Monday, as per TASS. All of the dead persons had gunshot wounds. It has prompted police to investigate the suicide angle, thinking Avayev may have shot his family members first and then himself. Watch: Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Kharkiv says Over 700 killed since invasion started × Authorities have not identified victims, but Russian news outlets reported citing sources that it was Avayev and his family. On the next day and over 2,000 miles away, Protosenya was also found hanged in his home, as per Spanish TV channel Telecinco. Oligarch’s wife and daughter were also fatally stabbed, the authorities said. On the side of Protosenya’s body, a bloodstained knife and axe was found. Spanish authorities are also working on theory that Protosenya may have killed his family and committed suicide. (With inputs from agencies)

Sounds fishy? In 24 hours, 2 Russian oligarchs, families found dead, cops probe suicide angle: Reports

Two Russian astronauts ventured outside the International Space Station on April 18 for a spacewalk to install a control panel for a 37-foot-long robotic arm.

Russian astronauts take a spacewalk to install robotic arm controls on ISS

Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer held "direct, open and tough" talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin near Moscow. This marks Putin's first meeting with a European Union leader since the Ukraine invasion started.

Austrian leader Karl Nehammer held 'open and tough' talks with Putin

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;

If a Western official is to be believed, Russian troops in tank turned on its own commander and ran him over. &nbsp;

In the incident, the colonel succumbed to his injuries, a report said, citing the official.&nbsp;It seems to shed light on the low morale within Russian ranks. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-running-out-of-precision-guided-munitions-may-rely-on-dumb-bombs-says-report-465304" hreflang="en">Russia running out of precision guided munitions, may rely on dumb bombs, says report &nbsp;</a>

"The brigade commander of one of the units was killed by his own troops, we believe, as a consequence of the scale of loss that had been taken by his brigade. We believe he was killed by his own troops deliberately," a Western official told Sky News reporter Deborah Haynes, who was unable to confirm the spelling of the colonel's name but wrote it as Col Yuri Medvechek.

"Indeed, we believe, he was run over by his own troops and I believe he was the commander of the 37 Motor Rifle Brigade," the&nbsp;official added.&nbsp;

Earlier, reports surfaced saying a colonel, whose name was spelled as Medvedev, had been rolled over by his subordinates. Although he had survived, his both legs were broken. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainians-need-to-achieve-peace-halt-russian-bombardment-says-president-volodymyr-zelensky-465301" hreflang="en">Ukrainians 'need to achieve peace', halt Russian bombardment, says President Volodymyr Zelensky</a>

The battered and weary brigade was upset after over half of its 1,500-member infantry had been killed in the war, reported Ukrainian journalist Roman Tsymbaliuk. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine President Zelensky reiterates calls for talks with Russia

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-president-zelensky-reiterates-calls-for-talks-with-russia-465597/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The reports did not say what happened to the soldier, who was driving the tank.&nbsp; &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. If a Western official is to be believed, Russian troops in tank turned on its own commander and ran him over. In the incident, the colonel succumbed to his injuries, a report said, citing the official. It seems to shed light on the low morale within Russian ranks. Also Read: Russia running out of precision guided munitions, may rely on dumb bombs, says report "The brigade commander of one of the units was killed by his own troops, we believe, as a consequence of the scale of loss that had been taken by his brigade. We believe he was killed by his own troops deliberately," a Western official told Sky News reporter Deborah Haynes, who was unable to confirm the spelling of the colonel's name but wrote it as Col Yuri Medvechek. "Indeed, we believe, he was run over by his own troops and I believe he was the commander of the 37 Motor Rifle Brigade," the official added. Earlier, reports surfaced saying a colonel, whose name was spelled as Medvedev, had been rolled over by his subordinates. Although he had survived, his both legs were broken. Also Read: Ukrainians 'need to achieve peace', halt Russian bombardment, says President Volodymyr Zelensky The battered and weary brigade was upset after over half of its 1,500-member infantry had been killed in the war, reported Ukrainian journalist Roman Tsymbaliuk. Watch: Ukraine President Zelensky reiterates calls for talks with Russia × The reports did not say what happened to the soldier, who was driving the tank. (With inputs from agencies)

After heavy casualties, distraught Russian troops turn on own commander, run him over, says report  

According to Ukraine's local media outlet, The Kyiv Independent, Russia claimed on Friday that it was opening a humanitarian corridor to allow foreign ships to leave Ukrainian ports.

"The supposed corridor would be 3 miles wide an open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on March 25. Earlier, Russia claimed there were drifting mines in the Black Sea," wrote the media outlet wrote.&nbsp;

Furthermore, as the Ukraine-Russia war enters its second month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy bestows the honorary title of "Hero City" on four cities and the title of "Hero of Ukraine" on seven National Guard service members.

The four cities to receive the title were Bucha, Irpin, Mykolaiv, and Okhtyrka. Five of the seven service members received the award posthumously.

The humanitarian situation in Ukraine continues to worsen as Mariupol City Council calls for help as residents begin to die from starvation.&nbsp;

According to the local media, more and more people are left without any food while multiple attempts to create humanitarian corridors and to provide aid have failed as Russian troops continue to violate ceasefire agreements.Russia launched its invasion last month after recognising the Ukrainian breakaway regions of Donetsk and Luhansk as "independent republics."&nbsp;

Russia has since continued to maintain that the aim of its operations has been to "demilitarize" and "de-nazify" the country.

The Russian actions were immediately condemned by almost all the western countries, who rolled out severe sets of sanctions targetting the Russian economy, and key individuals. A number of countries, including the US, UK, France, Italy, Finland and several others, also banned Russian aircraft over their airspaces.

According to Ukraine's local media outlet, The Kyiv Independent, Russia claimed on Friday that it was opening a humanitarian corridor to allow foreign ships to leave Ukrainian ports.

According to Ukraine's local media outlet, The Kyiv Independent, Russia claimed on Friday that it was opening a humanitarian corridor to allow foreign ships to leave Ukrainian ports. "The supposed corridor would be 3 miles wide an open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on March 25. Earlier, Russia claimed there were drifting mines in the Black Sea," wrote the media outlet wrote. Furthermore, as the Ukraine-Russia war enters its second month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy bestows the honorary title of "Hero City" on four cities and the title of "Hero of Ukraine" on seven National Guard service members. The four cities to receive the title were Bucha, Irpin, Mykolaiv, and Okhtyrka. Five of the seven service members received the award posthumously. The humanitarian situation in Ukraine continues to worsen as Mariupol City Council calls for help as residents begin to die from starvation. According to the local media, more and more people are left without any food while multiple attempts to create humanitarian corridors and to provide aid have failed as Russian troops continue to violate ceasefire agreements.Russia launched its invasion last month after recognising the Ukrainian breakaway regions of Donetsk and Luhansk as "independent republics." Russia has since continued to maintain that the aim of its operations has been to "demilitarize" and "de-nazify" the country. The Russian actions were immediately condemned by almost all the western countries, who rolled out severe sets of sanctions targetting the Russian economy, and key individuals. A number of countries, including the US, UK, France, Italy, Finland and several others, also banned Russian aircraft over their airspaces.

Russia to open humanitarian corridor for foreign ships to leave Ukrainian ports

Ukrainians "need to achieve peace" and halt Russian bombardment, said President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Millions have been forced to flee to neighbouring countries. &nbsp;&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden is due to visit Poland, where several Ukrainians have taken refuge. He will witness the crisis in a better way, said a Reuters report. &nbsp;

On Friday, Biden is going to Poland to meet experts, who are involved in the refugee response. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-accuses-russia-of-using-phosphorus-bombs-to-kill-civilians-465207">Ukraine accuses Russia of using phosphorus bombs to kill civilians</a>

In a brief video address early on Friday, Zelensky, who appeared exhausted, said that he made appeals to Western leaders "all for one reason - so that Russia understands that we need to achieve peace. Russia also needs to achieve peace." &nbsp;

"Every day we defend, we get closer to the peace we need so much ... and you can't stop for a minute. Because every minute is about our destiny, it is about our future. About whether we live," Zelensky added. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/one-month-since-russia-invaded-ukraine-hundreds-dead-millions-displaced-when-will-it-end-465149" hreflang="en">One month since Russia invaded Ukraine: Hundreds dead, millions displaced - When will it end?</a>

Western leaders announced new military and humanitarian aid in Brussels on Thursday and also denounced the Russian invasion as barbaric. The United States and Britain have also expanded sanctions on Russia to new targets. &nbsp;

The invasion has driven over half of Ukraine's children from homes, as per the United Nations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Ukrainians "need to achieve peace" and halt Russian bombardment, said President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday. Millions have been forced to flee to neighbouring countries.

Ukrainians "need to achieve peace" and halt Russian bombardment, said President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday. Millions have been forced to flee to neighbouring countries. US President Joe Biden is due to visit Poland, where several Ukrainians have taken refuge. He will witness the crisis in a better way, said a Reuters report. On Friday, Biden is going to Poland to meet experts, who are involved in the refugee response. Also Read: Ukraine accuses Russia of using phosphorus bombs to kill civilians In a brief video address early on Friday, Zelensky, who appeared exhausted, said that he made appeals to Western leaders "all for one reason - so that Russia understands that we need to achieve peace. Russia also needs to achieve peace." "Every day we defend, we get closer to the peace we need so much ... and you can't stop for a minute. Because every minute is about our destiny, it is about our future. About whether we live," Zelensky added. Also Read: One month since Russia invaded Ukraine: Hundreds dead, millions displaced - When will it end? Western leaders announced new military and humanitarian aid in Brussels on Thursday and also denounced the Russian invasion as barbaric. The United States and Britain have also expanded sanctions on Russia to new targets. The invasion has driven over half of Ukraine's children from homes, as per the United Nations. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainians 'need to achieve peace', halt Russian bombardment, says President Volodymyr Zelensky

Russian race walker Yelena Lashmanova has been banned for two years for the use of prohibited substances and will be stripped of her 2012 Olympics gold medal in the 20-km race, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) said on Monday.

Lashmanova won gold in London when she beat compatriot Olga Kaniskina, who was also later stripped of her silver medal for doping. Lashmanova then won gold at the 2013 World Championships in Moscow, another medal she will now lose.

The AIU said the charges were based on Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) data as well as evidence provided by Richard McLaren, who led the investigations into state-sponsored doping by Russian athletes.

"Russian race walker Yelena Lashmanova has been banned for two years, starting 9 March 2021, for the use of prohibited substances, a violation of World Athletics anti-doping rules," the AIU said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winter-sports-in-india-huge-number-of-female-participants-from-across-country-464286">Winter sports in India: Huge number of female participants from across country</a>

"Lashmanova has accepted the sanction proposed by the AIU... She is set to lose gold medals from the women's 20-km race walk event at the London 2012 Olympic Games and 2013 World Athletics Championships in Moscow."

The AIU said her results between Feb. 18, 2012 and Jan. 3, 2014 had been disqualified.

Lashmanova was previously handed a two-year doping ban in 2014. She had been coached by Viktor Chegin, who was banned for life from athletics in 2016 over the Russian doping scandal.

Russia's athletics federation was suspended by World Athletics in 2015 following a World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) report containing allegations of state-supported doping, which Moscow denied.

Russian race walker Yelena Lashmanova has been banned for two years for the use of prohibited substances and will be stripped of her 2012 Olympics gold medal in the 20-km race, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) said on Monday.

Russian race walker Yelena Lashmanova has been banned for two years for the use of prohibited substances and will be stripped of her 2012 Olympics gold medal in the 20-km race, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) said on Monday. Lashmanova won gold in London when she beat compatriot Olga Kaniskina, who was also later stripped of her silver medal for doping. Lashmanova then won gold at the 2013 World Championships in Moscow, another medal she will now lose. The AIU said the charges were based on Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) data as well as evidence provided by Richard McLaren, who led the investigations into state-sponsored doping by Russian athletes. "Russian race walker Yelena Lashmanova has been banned for two years, starting 9 March 2021, for the use of prohibited substances, a violation of World Athletics anti-doping rules," the AIU said in a statement. ALSO READ: Winter sports in India: Huge number of female participants from across country "Lashmanova has accepted the sanction proposed by the AIU... She is set to lose gold medals from the women's 20-km race walk event at the London 2012 Olympic Games and 2013 World Athletics Championships in Moscow." The AIU said her results between Feb. 18, 2012 and Jan. 3, 2014 had been disqualified. Lashmanova was previously handed a two-year doping ban in 2014. She had been coached by Viktor Chegin, who was banned for life from athletics in 2016 over the Russian doping scandal. Russia's athletics federation was suspended by World Athletics in 2015 following a World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) report containing allegations of state-supported doping, which Moscow denied.

AIU bans Russian race walker Yelena Lashmanova for doping, to be stripped of 2012 Olympics gold

Did Russian cosmonauts wear the colours of the Ukrainian flag during arrival at the International Space Station? Well, many people would say yes, but not the astronauts, who donned them. &nbsp;

In a rebuttal, Russian cosmonauts denied the idea on Saturday. &nbsp;

The three cosmonauts of Russia&nbsp;had adorned suits, which were yellow in colour and had blue accents. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-mariupol-residents-forced-to-relocate-to-russia-claims-city-council-463908">Thousands of Mariupol residents forced to relocate to Russia: City council</a>

Around six months before launch, each crew picks the colour of the flight suits as they need to be sewn individually, said Cosmonaut Oleg Artemyev. &nbsp;

And as all of them were graduates of Bauman Moscow State Technical University, the cosmonauts picked the colours of their alma mater. &nbsp;

In a statement on the Russian space agency's Telegram channel, “There is no need to look for any hidden signs or symbols in our uniform. A colour is simply a colour. It is not in any way connected to Ukraine. Otherwise, we would have to recognise its rights to the yellow sun in the blue sky,” Artemyev said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-russia-ukraine-war-moscow-claims-it-used-hypersonic-missile-in-strike-463897" hreflang="en">LIVE | Russia-Ukraine War: Moscow claims it used hypersonic missile in strike</a>

"These days, even though we are in space, we are together with our president and our people!" Artemyev said. &nbsp;

In a tweet, Dmitry Rogozin, head, space agency Roscosmos, reiterated point made by Artemyev by posting a picture of the blue and gold coat of arms of the university. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Several people have been donning the Ukrainian flag and its colours to show solidarity with the war-torn country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Did Russian cosmonauts wear the colours of the Ukrainian flag during arrival at the International Space Station? Well, many people would say yes, but not the astronauts, who donned them.

Did Russian cosmonauts wear the colours of the Ukrainian flag during arrival at the International Space Station? Well, many people would say yes, but not the astronauts, who donned them. In a rebuttal, Russian cosmonauts denied the idea on Saturday. The three cosmonauts of Russia had adorned suits, which were yellow in colour and had blue accents. Also Read | Thousands of Mariupol residents forced to relocate to Russia: City council Around six months before launch, each crew picks the colour of the flight suits as they need to be sewn individually, said Cosmonaut Oleg Artemyev. And as all of them were graduates of Bauman Moscow State Technical University, the cosmonauts picked the colours of their alma mater. In a statement on the Russian space agency's Telegram channel, “There is no need to look for any hidden signs or symbols in our uniform. A colour is simply a colour. It is not in any way connected to Ukraine. Otherwise, we would have to recognise its rights to the yellow sun in the blue sky,” Artemyev said. Also Read: LIVE | Russia-Ukraine War: Moscow claims it used hypersonic missile in strike "These days, even though we are in space, we are together with our president and our people!" Artemyev said. In a tweet, Dmitry Rogozin, head, space agency Roscosmos, reiterated point made by Artemyev by posting a picture of the blue and gold coat of arms of the university. Several people have been donning the Ukrainian flag and its colours to show solidarity with the war-torn country. (With inputs from agencies)

Did Russian cosmonauts wear Ukrainian flag’s colours at ISS? Idea gets refuted

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;

If reports are to be believed, morale of invading Russian forces seems to be low. In order to avoid fighting, some soldiers have reportedly shot themselves in the legs with the help of Ukrainian ammunition to avoid suspicion. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It seems to have been done to make it appear that they have got injured after getting hit by the defenders. &nbsp;

According to the Ukrainian government, around 14,000 of Russian soldiers have been killed in the conflict. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-russian-cosmonauts-wear-ukrainian-flags-colours-at-iss-idea-gets-refuted-463912">Did Russian cosmonauts wear Ukrainian flag’s colours at ISS? Idea gets refuted</a>

In a conversation, which was being carried out between soldiers and intercepted by Belarusian media outlet NEXTA, a Russian, said, “They’ve been shooting at us for 14 days. We’re scared. We’re stealing food, breaking into houses. We’re killing civilians,” the US Sun reported. &nbsp;

“Russian officers shoot themselves in the legs to go home. There are corpses everywhere,” he continued. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Another soldier was also heard saying that his comrades are “looking for Ukrainian ammunition in order to shoot themselves in the legs and go to hospital.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/11-year-old-boy-who-fled-ukraine-with-only-a-phone-number-gets-reunited-with-family-in-slovakia-463950" hreflang="en">11-year-old boy who fled Ukraine with only a phone number gets reunited with family in Slovakia</a>

As the deserters face harsh punishment in Russia, using Ukrainian weapons and ammo on themselves can help make self-inflicted wounds appear to be battlefield injuries, as per reports. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In another intercepted audio, a soldier, who called his mother back home, said the disillusioned troops were using 7.62mm bullets fired by their enemies rather than 5.62 rounds fired by their own AK-47 assault rifles, a Mirror report said. &nbsp;&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. If reports are to be believed, morale of invading Russian forces seems to be low. In order to avoid fighting, some soldiers have reportedly shot themselves in the legs with the help of Ukrainian ammunition to avoid suspicion. It seems to have been done to make it appear that they have got injured after getting hit by the defenders. According to the Ukrainian government, around 14,000 of Russian soldiers have been killed in the conflict. Also Read: Did Russian cosmonauts wear Ukrainian flag’s colours at ISS? Idea gets refuted In a conversation, which was being carried out between soldiers and intercepted by Belarusian media outlet NEXTA, a Russian, said, “They’ve been shooting at us for 14 days. We’re scared. We’re stealing food, breaking into houses. We’re killing civilians,” the US Sun reported. “Russian officers shoot themselves in the legs to go home. There are corpses everywhere,” he continued. Another soldier was also heard saying that his comrades are “looking for Ukrainian ammunition in order to shoot themselves in the legs and go to hospital.” Also Read: 11-year-old boy who fled Ukraine with only a phone number gets reunited with family in Slovakia As the deserters face harsh punishment in Russia, using Ukrainian weapons and ammo on themselves can help make self-inflicted wounds appear to be battlefield injuries, as per reports. In another intercepted audio, a soldier, who called his mother back home, said the disillusioned troops were using 7.62mm bullets fired by their enemies rather than 5.62 rounds fired by their own AK-47 assault rifles, a Mirror report said. (With inputs from agencies)

Demoralised? Russian troops shoot selves with Ukrainian ammo in legs to avoid fighting, say reports

russian

Russian, News on Russian, stories on Russian, articles on Russian, Russian stories at Wion, Russian news, Russian latest news