What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday spoke with Quad leaders and discussed situation in Ukraine. The discussion included humanitarian implications of the conflict. PM Modi emphassed that there was need to return to the path of dialogue and diplomacy.

Quad is a grouping of India, US, Japan and Australia.

US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also took part, in the first such interaction since the leaders of four Quad countries held a summit in September last year in Washington.&nbsp;

The virtual meeting was held amid Russia`s military action in Ukraine. A PMO statement said that the leaders discussed other topical issues, including the situation in Southeast Asia, the Indian Ocean region and the Pacific Islands.&nbsp;

<img alt="Quad statement" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="632d1f0b-88e3-4d0e-8c6f-50c528d71426" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Quad.png" />

PM Modi reiterated the importance "of adhering to the UN Charter, international law and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity."

"The Prime Minister underlined that the Quad must remain focused on its core objective of promoting peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. He called for concrete and practical forms of cooperation within the Quad, in areas like Humanitarian and Disaster Relief, debt sustainability, supply chains, clean energy, connectivity, and capacity-building.

"Developments in Ukraine were discussed in the meeting, including its humanitarian implications. The Prime Minister emphasised the need to return to a path of dialogue and diplomacy," the statement said.&nbsp;

The meeting reviewed the progress on Quad initiatives since the September 2021 Quad Summit. The leaders agreed on accelerating cooperation, with an objective to achieve concrete outcomes by the summit in Japan later this year.The leaders agreed to stay in touch and to work towards an ambitious agenda for the forthcoming Leaders` Summit in Japan. The Western countries have imposed sanctions against Russia following its military action.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday spoke with Quad leaders and discussed situation in Ukraine. The discussion included humanitarian implications of the conflict.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday spoke with Quad leaders and discussed situation in Ukraine. The discussion included humanitarian implications of the conflict. PM Modi emphassed that there was need to return to the path of dialogue and diplomacy. Quad is a grouping of India, US, Japan and Australia. US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also took part, in the first such interaction since the leaders of four Quad countries held a summit in September last year in Washington. The virtual meeting was held amid Russia`s military action in Ukraine. A PMO statement said that the leaders discussed other topical issues, including the situation in Southeast Asia, the Indian Ocean region and the Pacific Islands. PM Modi reiterated the importance "of adhering to the UN Charter, international law and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity." "The Prime Minister underlined that the Quad must remain focused on its core objective of promoting peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. He called for concrete and practical forms of cooperation within the Quad, in areas like Humanitarian and Disaster Relief, debt sustainability, supply chains, clean energy, connectivity, and capacity-building. "Developments in Ukraine were discussed in the meeting, including its humanitarian implications. The Prime Minister emphasised the need to return to a path of dialogue and diplomacy," the statement said. The meeting reviewed the progress on Quad initiatives since the September 2021 Quad Summit. The leaders agreed on accelerating cooperation, with an objective to achieve concrete outcomes by the summit in Japan later this year.The leaders agreed to stay in touch and to work towards an ambitious agenda for the forthcoming Leaders` Summit in Japan. The Western countries have imposed sanctions against Russia following its military action. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi discusses Ukraine situation with Quad leaders

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;

The last remaining independent news network’s journalists in Russia have left the country to get to safety. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This comes a day after Russia had instituted a digital roadblock against the network. &nbsp;

In an order on Tuesday, the country's Prosecutor General's Office restricted access to both TV Rain, which is also known as Dozhd, and a radio station, Radio Echo, also called Ekho Moskvy. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-russian-soldier-surrenders-to-ukrainians-gets-pastries-drinks-458423" hreflang="en">Watch: Russian soldier surrenders to Ukrainians, gets pastries, drinks</a>

On Wednesday, TV Rain's editor-in-chief Tikhon Dzyadko announced on Telegram that he and his family, along with the editorial staff, have left the country. &nbsp;

"After the blocking of Dozhd's website, Dozhd's social media accounts, and the threat against some employees, it is obvious that the personal safety of some of us is at risk," Dzyadko said. &nbsp;

In Russia, most media outlets have abided by the orders of the state to follow President Vladimir Putin's take on the invasion. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Russia Today’s global live-stream refers to it as a "special operation." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-billionaires-600-million-luxury-yacht-seized-by-german-authorities-says-report-458362" hreflang="en">'Russian billionaire’s $600 million luxury yacht seized by German authorities'</a>

The determination of TV Rain and Ekho Moskvy to defy Kremlin for following journalism has turned them into targets. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On Telegram, Dzyadko said TV Rain will appeal against the decision by the prosecutor general's office. It will also continue to work "partly remotely." &nbsp;&nbsp;

"We are facing a real threat. It's getting harder to work here," anchor Ekaterina Kotrikadze, who is married to Dzyadko, said from Moscow on Sunday's "Reliable Sources." &nbsp;&nbsp;

"They are trying to make us, you know, deliver the same message as they do, but you know it's impossible for us to work like this," she 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.

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. The last remaining independent news network’s journalists in Russia have left the country to get to safety. This comes a day after Russia had instituted a digital roadblock against the network. In an order on Tuesday, the country's Prosecutor General's Office restricted access to both TV Rain, which is also known as Dozhd, and a radio station, Radio Echo, also called Ekho Moskvy. Also Read: Watch: Russian soldier surrenders to Ukrainians, gets pastries, drinks On Wednesday, TV Rain's editor-in-chief Tikhon Dzyadko announced on Telegram that he and his family, along with the editorial staff, have left the country. "After the blocking of Dozhd's website, Dozhd's social media accounts, and the threat against some employees, it is obvious that the personal safety of some of us is at risk," Dzyadko said. In Russia, most media outlets have abided by the orders of the state to follow President Vladimir Putin's take on the invasion. Russia Today’s global live-stream refers to it as a "special operation." Also Read: 'Russian billionaire’s $600 million luxury yacht seized by German authorities' The determination of TV Rain and Ekho Moskvy to defy Kremlin for following journalism has turned them into targets. On Telegram, Dzyadko said TV Rain will appeal against the decision by the prosecutor general's office. It will also continue to work "partly remotely." "We are facing a real threat. It's getting harder to work here," anchor Ekaterina Kotrikadze, who is married to Dzyadko, said from Moscow on Sunday's "Reliable Sources." "They are trying to make us, you know, deliver the same message as they do, but you know it's impossible for us to work like this," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine crisis: Last independent news network’s scribes flee Russia to get to safety

I grew up in a land of lies and bones, with the dead being erased or subsumed by the Kremlin, which refused to see Ukraine as a nation, imposing a Soviet identity over us all.

Today, we’re witnessing the same nihilistic violence unfold in real time, in a campaign of bullets and bombs dropped over Ukraine. “I’m OK,” terrified friends in Kharkiv and Kyiv keep telling me. What else is there to tell? We know this war isn’t new; in some ways we have always expected it to resume.

I remember the pockmarks. My father and I were coming home after a walk in a small park filled with lilacs near our apartment in Kharkiv (then called Kharkov) when Ukraine was still a Soviet republic. “Why are there holes there?” I asked my father, pointing to a cluster of ugly craters, chipped into a corner of our apartment block.

“It’s from the war,” he told me. It was the mid-1980s, nearly half a century after World War II had ended. The artillery scars are still in my mind. It’s one of my earliest childhood memories.

It was impossible to grow up in Ukraine without witnessing the violence the land had seen. We clambered around old tanks proudly displayed in parks and squares, lumbering monuments to World War II. We learned of this history at dinner tables and in elementary schools, in stories passed down of famine and invasions, from the Mongol destruction of Kyivan Rus in the 13th century to the Nazi attack in 1941 to the Soviet purges.

By the 1980s the country was in many ways a giant mass grave, a grave the size of Texas. And yet we were not encouraged to see it as a Ukrainian story, but as a Soviet one, a collective amnesia pushed out from the Kremlin across the Soviet states.

The story of modern Ukraine begins a little over 100 years ago, at the end of World War I, when new states were crawling out of the ruins of defeated empires across Europe. Ukraine, however, was fractured. The region ended up in two pieces: the eastern and central parcels were annexed by the Soviet Union; the western region, known as Eastern Galicia, which had once belonged to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, was tacked on to Poland. Both were about to enter decades of suffering.

Warsaw, which had just regained its sovereignty for the first time in 123 years, wasn’t keen on permitting a distinct Ukrainian identity to develop in Eastern Galicia; the 1920s saw an increasing crackdown on Ukrainian culture, churches and schools. When Ukrainian nationalists began waging a campaign of terrorism and assassination against what they viewed as a Polish occupation of Ukrainian soil, Warsaw responded with the 1930 “pacification of Eastern Galicia,” a euphemism for brutal suppression of Ukrainians.

But the situation in Poland paled in comparison to the genocide Stalin perpetuated on the Soviet part of Ukraine. From 1932 through 1933, Soviet commissars began seizing grain and food from Ukrainian peasants in the name of Communist collectivization, part of a vicious backlash against the independent farmers whom Moscow deemed to be too successful and therefore too greedy.

The seizure of food turned Ukraine into an apocalyptic wasteland plagued by famine. People dropped dead on the streets. Ukrainians ate dirt, grass, food waste. Reports of cannibalism were widespread, and parents were said to have eaten their children. About 3.9 million Ukrainians perished in what became known as Holodomor — “death by hunger” in Ukrainian. But killing them wasn’t enough. As a final insult, Stalin, who was infamous for erasing enemies from photographs, forbade talk of the famine and ensured statistics were altered to hide the deaths, as if his victims had never existed.

Less than a decade later, the Nazis seized Ukraine. Some 1.5 million Ukrainian Jews were killed, most by mobile Nazi death squads known as Einsatzgruppen, aided by local collaborators in what later became known as the Holocaust of bullets. Babyn Yar, just outside of Kyiv, became the final resting place for 33,000 Jews mowed down in just days. Destruction was not limited to the Jews. Cities, including Kharkiv, were reduced to swaths of rubble. Over two million Ukrainians were pressed into slave labor in Germany. Hunger descended again. In all, because of war and famine and destruction, five million to seven million Ukrainians lost their lives. Nearly 200,000 Crimean Tatars, Muslims who lived in Ukraine for centuries, were deported to Central Asia; tens of thousands died as a result.

The end of German occupation didn’t end the suffering, it only brought renewed Soviet repression. The U.S.S.R. couldn’t abide any identity that challenged Soviet dominance, whether in individuals or nations. For 40 years after the war, Russia methodically swept aside the Ukrainian language and culture, leaving behind a landscape of soulless Soviet kitsch, red stars and slogans and tomes of speeches by Lenin. Ukrainian identity was vestigial and subservient; I still remember my school showing us drawings of peasants in vyshyvanki — traditional Ukrainian embroidered shirts — insipidly smiling while waving Soviet flags.

The Kremlin also suppressed Holocaust remembrance, which it saw as potentially dangerous because it facilitated Jewish communal identity. For decades, the bodies of hundreds of thousands of Jews remained strewn in Nazi killing pits throughout Ukraine without so much as a grave marker. When the regime did permit memorials, the dead were invariably referred to as “peaceful Soviet citizens,” their Jewish identity purposefully omitted.

When I was still a child, in 1986, an explosion at the Chernobyl nuclear plant spewed a radioactive cloud through Ukraine and Belarus. Heroic local volunteers and firefighters put out the radioactive inferno, preventing a second explosion that could have decimated half of Europe; many died horrific deaths in the process and in the aftermath. A large area of land was rendered uninhabitable and remains so today. Moscow stifled discussion of Chernobyl as it happened, cloaking the accident in secrecy and propaganda.

Three years later my parents, my grandmother, my sister and I — along with thousands of other Soviet Jews — fled for Vienna. It was from America that we watched, in 1991, as the Soviet Union crumbled and the Iron Curtain was drawn back. Ukraine gained its independence, but promises of democracy were soon mired in endemic corruption.

In 2004, the Orange Revolution saw hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians reverse the outcome of a fraudulent presidential election. In the winter of 2013-14, millions joined the Euromaidan uprising, demanding that Ukraine enter into a partnership agreement with the European Union. Shortly after, Russia illegally annexed the Crimean peninsula while Russian-backed separatists launched an anti-Euromaidan uprising in the east of the country.

I wonder if our old pockmarked apartment building in Kharkiv has new scars, if it’ll even be standing tomorrow. My American friends were emailing and texting, expressing sympathy, asking what they could do. I didn’t respond to some of them; I couldn’t. America wants solutions and happy endings, and I couldn’t tell my friends the reality — there’s nothing they or I can do.

But that isn’t entirely true. President Vladimir Putin of Russia, who denies that Ukraine is a sovereign nation, is waging far more than a physical war: He, like his predecessors in the Kremlin, is working to erase the very concept of Ukraine from existence. With each new report of a Russian bombing, I find myself becoming more Ukrainian, seizing the identity that first the Soviet Union — and now Russia — has long fought to suppress.

I hope others can help keep Ukraine alive. Learn the history. Light a candle on Holodomor Remembrance Day in November. Mourn the dead. Remember Ukraine.

I grew up in a land of lies and bones, with the dead being erased or subsumed by the Kremlin, which refused to see Ukraine as a nation, imposing a Soviet identity over us all.

I grew up in a land of lies and bones, with the dead being erased or subsumed by the Kremlin, which refused to see Ukraine as a nation, imposing a Soviet identity over us all. Today, we’re witnessing the same nihilistic violence unfold in real time, in a campaign of bullets and bombs dropped over Ukraine. “I’m OK,” terrified friends in Kharkiv and Kyiv keep telling me. What else is there to tell? We know this war isn’t new; in some ways we have always expected it to resume. I remember the pockmarks. My father and I were coming home after a walk in a small park filled with lilacs near our apartment in Kharkiv (then called Kharkov) when Ukraine was still a Soviet republic. “Why are there holes there?” I asked my father, pointing to a cluster of ugly craters, chipped into a corner of our apartment block. “It’s from the war,” he told me. It was the mid-1980s, nearly half a century after World War II had ended. The artillery scars are still in my mind. It’s one of my earliest childhood memories. It was impossible to grow up in Ukraine without witnessing the violence the land had seen. We clambered around old tanks proudly displayed in parks and squares, lumbering monuments to World War II. We learned of this history at dinner tables and in elementary schools, in stories passed down of famine and invasions, from the Mongol destruction of Kyivan Rus in the 13th century to the Nazi attack in 1941 to the Soviet purges. By the 1980s the country was in many ways a giant mass grave, a grave the size of Texas. And yet we were not encouraged to see it as a Ukrainian story, but as a Soviet one, a collective amnesia pushed out from the Kremlin across the Soviet states. The story of modern Ukraine begins a little over 100 years ago, at the end of World War I, when new states were crawling out of the ruins of defeated empires across Europe. Ukraine, however, was fractured. The region ended up in two pieces: the eastern and central parcels were annexed by the Soviet Union; the western region, known as Eastern Galicia, which had once belonged to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, was tacked on to Poland. Both were about to enter decades of suffering. Warsaw, which had just regained its sovereignty for the first time in 123 years, wasn’t keen on permitting a distinct Ukrainian identity to develop in Eastern Galicia; the 1920s saw an increasing crackdown on Ukrainian culture, churches and schools. When Ukrainian nationalists began waging a campaign of terrorism and assassination against what they viewed as a Polish occupation of Ukrainian soil, Warsaw responded with the 1930 “pacification of Eastern Galicia,” a euphemism for brutal suppression of Ukrainians. But the situation in Poland paled in comparison to the genocide Stalin perpetuated on the Soviet part of Ukraine. From 1932 through 1933, Soviet commissars began seizing grain and food from Ukrainian peasants in the name of Communist collectivization, part of a vicious backlash against the independent farmers whom Moscow deemed to be too successful and therefore too greedy. The seizure of food turned Ukraine into an apocalyptic wasteland plagued by famine. People dropped dead on the streets. Ukrainians ate dirt, grass, food waste. Reports of cannibalism were widespread, and parents were said to have eaten their children. About 3.9 million Ukrainians perished in what became known as Holodomor — “death by hunger” in Ukrainian. But killing them wasn’t enough. As a final insult, Stalin, who was infamous for erasing enemies from photographs, forbade talk of the famine and ensured statistics were altered to hide the deaths, as if his victims had never existed. Less than a decade later, the Nazis seized Ukraine. Some 1.5 million Ukrainian Jews were killed, most by mobile Nazi death squads known as Einsatzgruppen, aided by local collaborators in what later became known as the Holocaust of bullets. Babyn Yar, just outside of Kyiv, became the final resting place for 33,000 Jews mowed down in just days. Destruction was not limited to the Jews. Cities, including Kharkiv, were reduced to swaths of rubble. Over two million Ukrainians were pressed into slave labor in Germany. Hunger descended again. In all, because of war and famine and destruction, five million to seven million Ukrainians lost their lives. Nearly 200,000 Crimean Tatars, Muslims who lived in Ukraine for centuries, were deported to Central Asia; tens of thousands died as a result. The end of German occupation didn’t end the suffering, it only brought renewed Soviet repression. The U.S.S.R. couldn’t abide any identity that challenged Soviet dominance, whether in individuals or nations. For 40 years after the war, Russia methodically swept aside the Ukrainian language and culture, leaving behind a landscape of soulless Soviet kitsch, red stars and slogans and tomes of speeches by Lenin. Ukrainian identity was vestigial and subservient; I still remember my school showing us drawings of peasants in vyshyvanki — traditional Ukrainian embroidered shirts — insipidly smiling while waving Soviet flags. The Kremlin also suppressed Holocaust remembrance, which it saw as potentially dangerous because it facilitated Jewish communal identity. For decades, the bodies of hundreds of thousands of Jews remained strewn in Nazi killing pits throughout Ukraine without so much as a grave marker. When the regime did permit memorials, the dead were invariably referred to as “peaceful Soviet citizens,” their Jewish identity purposefully omitted. When I was still a child, in 1986, an explosion at the Chernobyl nuclear plant spewed a radioactive cloud through Ukraine and Belarus. Heroic local volunteers and firefighters put out the radioactive inferno, preventing a second explosion that could have decimated half of Europe; many died horrific deaths in the process and in the aftermath. A large area of land was rendered uninhabitable and remains so today. Moscow stifled discussion of Chernobyl as it happened, cloaking the accident in secrecy and propaganda. Three years later my parents, my grandmother, my sister and I — along with thousands of other Soviet Jews — fled for Vienna. It was from America that we watched, in 1991, as the Soviet Union crumbled and the Iron Curtain was drawn back. Ukraine gained its independence, but promises of democracy were soon mired in endemic corruption. In 2004, the Orange Revolution saw hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians reverse the outcome of a fraudulent presidential election. In the winter of 2013-14, millions joined the Euromaidan uprising, demanding that Ukraine enter into a partnership agreement with the European Union. Shortly after, Russia illegally annexed the Crimean peninsula while Russian-backed separatists launched an anti-Euromaidan uprising in the east of the country. I wonder if our old pockmarked apartment building in Kharkiv has new scars, if it’ll even be standing tomorrow. My American friends were emailing and texting, expressing sympathy, asking what they could do. I didn’t respond to some of them; I couldn’t. America wants solutions and happy endings, and I couldn’t tell my friends the reality — there’s nothing they or I can do. But that isn’t entirely true. President Vladimir Putin of Russia, who denies that Ukraine is a sovereign nation, is waging far more than a physical war: He, like his predecessors in the Kremlin, is working to erase the very concept of Ukraine from existence. With each new report of a Russian bombing, I find myself becoming more Ukrainian, seizing the identity that first the Soviet Union — and now Russia — has long fought to suppress. I hope others can help keep Ukraine alive. Learn the history. Light a candle on Holodomor Remembrance Day in November. Mourn the dead. Remember Ukraine.

The Ukraine of my childhood is being erased

On Thursday, India rejected reports that Indian students trapped in war-torn Ukraine were kidnapped and used as human shields by Ukrainian forces.

In response to media inquiries about Indian students being held hostage in Ukraine, Arindam Bagchi, the official spokesperson, said: "Our Embassy in Ukraine is in continuous touch with Indian nationals in Ukraine. We note that with the cooperation of the Ukrainian authorities, many students left Kharkiv yesterday. We have not received any reports of any hostage situation involving any student. We have requested the support of the Ukrainian authorities in arranging special trains to take out students from Kharkiv and neighbouring areas to the western part of the country." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-indian-flag-helped-pakistani-turkish-students-cross-ukraine-border-says-indian-student-458070">Watch | Indian flag helped Pakistani, Turkish students cross Ukraine border, says Indian student</a> 
 
"We have been coordinating effectively with the countries in the region including Russia, Romania, Poland, Hungary, Slovakia and Moldova. A large number of Indian nationals have been evacuated from Ukraine in the last few days. We appreciate the help extended by the Ukrainian authorities to make this possible. We thank Ukraine’s western neighbours in receiving Indian nationals and for accommodating them while they waited for flights to take them back home," he added.

Russia on Wednesday claimed that Ukraine had taken Indian students hostage. Russia's Ministry of Defense in a briefing said while Russia was trying to evacuate Indian students from Kharkiv the Ukrainian forces had taken Indians hostage. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/stop-criticising-indian-students-stuck-in-ukraine-they-need-to-be-appreciated-457069">Also read | Stop criticising Indian students stuck in Ukraine; they need to be appreciated</a>

In a statement by the ministry's official representative, Major General Igor Konashenkov said: "According to our data, in Kharkiv, the Ukrainian authorities are forcibly detaining a large group of Indian students who want to leave the Ukrainian territory and go to Belgorod." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-is-ukraine-such-a-popular-choice-for-indian-medical-students-456990">Also read | Why is Ukraine such a popular choice for Indian medical students?</a>

Further, he said, "The Armed Forces are ready to take all necessary measures for the safe evacuation of Indian citizens. And send them home from the territory of Russia with their military transport planes or Indian planes, as the Indian side proposed to do."&nbsp; 
 
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-people-refuse-to-leave-furry-companions-behind-india-relaxes-norms-for-bringing-back-pets-from-ukraine-458120">As people refuse to leave furry companions behind, India relaxes norms for bringing back pets from Ukraine</a>

(With inputs from agencies)

On Thursday, India rejected reports that Indian students trapped in war-torn Ukraine were kidnapped and used as human shields by Ukrainian forces. In response to media inquiries about Indian students being held hostage in Ukraine, Arindam Bagchi, the official spokesperson, said: "Our Embassy in Ukraine is in continuous touch with Indian nationals in Ukraine.

On Thursday, India rejected reports that Indian students trapped in war-torn Ukraine were kidnapped and used as human shields by Ukrainian forces. In response to media inquiries about Indian students being held hostage in Ukraine, Arindam Bagchi, the official spokesperson, said: "Our Embassy in Ukraine is in continuous touch with Indian nationals in Ukraine. We note that with the cooperation of the Ukrainian authorities, many students left Kharkiv yesterday. We have not received any reports of any hostage situation involving any student. We have requested the support of the Ukrainian authorities in arranging special trains to take out students from Kharkiv and neighbouring areas to the western part of the country." Watch | Indian flag helped Pakistani, Turkish students cross Ukraine border, says Indian student "We have been coordinating effectively with the countries in the region including Russia, Romania, Poland, Hungary, Slovakia and Moldova. A large number of Indian nationals have been evacuated from Ukraine in the last few days. We appreciate the help extended by the Ukrainian authorities to make this possible. We thank Ukraine’s western neighbours in receiving Indian nationals and for accommodating them while they waited for flights to take them back home," he added. Russia on Wednesday claimed that Ukraine had taken Indian students hostage. Russia's Ministry of Defense in a briefing said while Russia was trying to evacuate Indian students from Kharkiv the Ukrainian forces had taken Indians hostage. Also read | Stop criticising Indian students stuck in Ukraine; they need to be appreciated In a statement by the ministry's official representative, Major General Igor Konashenkov said: "According to our data, in Kharkiv, the Ukrainian authorities are forcibly detaining a large group of Indian students who want to leave the Ukrainian territory and go to Belgorod." Also read | Why is Ukraine such a popular choice for Indian medical students? Further, he said, "The Armed Forces are ready to take all necessary measures for the safe evacuation of Indian citizens. And send them home from the territory of Russia with their military transport planes or Indian planes, as the Indian side proposed to do." Also Read | As people refuse to leave furry companions behind, India relaxes norms for bringing back pets from Ukraine (With inputs from agencies)

'No Indian student taken hostage by Ukraine forces': Indian govt

Having braved bombs and gunfire, Ukraine's athletes have made it safely to Beijing ahead of the Winter Paralympics that begin on Friday, in what Ukrainian paralympic committee president Valeriy Sushkevych described as a miracle.

Ukraine has been under siege following an invasion by Russia, which prompted the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) on Thursday to ban Russian and Belarusian athletes from the Games after earlier allowing them to compete as neutrals.

Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/belarus-clubs-and-national-team-banned-from-playing-at-home-in-uefa-competitions-amid-ukraine-crisis-458664">Belarus clubs and national team banned from playing at home in UEFA competitions amid Ukraine crisis</a>

"Not coming here would have been taking the easy option... Our presence at the Paralympics is not merely a presence, this is a sign that Ukraine is and will remain a country," Sushkevych told reporters on Thursday.

The enormous challenge to get to Beijing meant that Sushkevych, a member of Ukraine's parliament, had to sleep on the floor of a bus for two days, while other members of the delegation escaped missiles to get out of the country.

"More than four days and four nights we (took to) come here," he added.

"It's a miracle that we're here... A part of our team was already abroad. A part of our team was in Ukraine. All the necessary equipment was in Ukraine... We had to unite all those parts," he said.

"It is 25 years I am president of the national paralympic committee of the Ukraine. And never was it so difficult, so heavy to come to the Paralympic Games."

Ukraine have been a formidable presence at the Winter Games in the past, bagging 22 medals including seven golds in Pyeongchang four years ago.

The country's 20-strong contingent, accompanied by nine guides, will feature in the biathlon and cross-country skiing, with some athletes already hitting the slopes in Zhangjiakou ahead of the two events.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-russian-grand-prix-in-future-as-formula-one-terminates-contract-in-wake-of-ukraine-crisis-458595">No Russian Grand Prix in future as Formula One terminates contract in wake of Ukraine crisis</a>

Asked whether the team would be able to go home at the end of the Games given the situation in Ukraine, Sushkevych said he wasn't sure.

"I don't know... going back home is not simple. I hope the international community takes a real step during the Paralympics to stop this war."

Having braved bombs and gunfire, Ukraine's athletes have made it safely to Beijing ahead of the Winter Paralympics that begin on Friday, in what Ukrainian paralympic committee president Valeriy Sushkevych described as a miracle.

Having braved bombs and gunfire, Ukraine's athletes have made it safely to Beijing ahead of the Winter Paralympics that begin on Friday, in what Ukrainian paralympic committee president Valeriy Sushkevych described as a miracle. Ukraine has been under siege following an invasion by Russia, which prompted the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) on Thursday to ban Russian and Belarusian athletes from the Games after earlier allowing them to compete as neutrals. Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion. ALSO READ: Belarus clubs and national team banned from playing at home in UEFA competitions amid Ukraine crisis "Not coming here would have been taking the easy option... Our presence at the Paralympics is not merely a presence, this is a sign that Ukraine is and will remain a country," Sushkevych told reporters on Thursday. The enormous challenge to get to Beijing meant that Sushkevych, a member of Ukraine's parliament, had to sleep on the floor of a bus for two days, while other members of the delegation escaped missiles to get out of the country. "More than four days and four nights we (took to) come here," he added. "It's a miracle that we're here... A part of our team was already abroad. A part of our team was in Ukraine. All the necessary equipment was in Ukraine... We had to unite all those parts," he said. "It is 25 years I am president of the national paralympic committee of the Ukraine. And never was it so difficult, so heavy to come to the Paralympic Games." Ukraine have been a formidable presence at the Winter Games in the past, bagging 22 medals including seven golds in Pyeongchang four years ago. The country's 20-strong contingent, accompanied by nine guides, will feature in the biathlon and cross-country skiing, with some athletes already hitting the slopes in Zhangjiakou ahead of the two events. ALSO READ: No Russian Grand Prix in future as Formula One terminates contract in wake of Ukraine crisis Asked whether the team would be able to go home at the end of the Games given the situation in Ukraine, Sushkevych said he wasn't sure. "I don't know... going back home is not simple. I hope the international community takes a real step during the Paralympics to stop this war."

'It's a miracle that we're here': Ukraine team arrives safely in Beijing ahead of Winter Paralympics

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;

Russia on Wednesday made a huge claim that some Indian students in Kharkov (Kharkiv) were being held hostage by Ukrainian forces. The Russian side also said that these students were being used as human shields and that Russia was trying to organise 'urgent evacuation' of this group of students.

The Russian side released this information in a readout given out after telephone conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

As per the readout, Putin has given all necessary instructions to ensure safe evacuation of Indian citizens from the war zone.

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India has already launched 'Operation Ganga' to bring back Indian citizens and students who are caught in the Ukraine conflict. On Wednesday (March 2) Indian embassy in Ukraine <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ukraine-conflict-india-says-citizens-must-leave-kharkiv-immediately-458211">issued an advisory</a> for citizens and said that they "must leave" Kharkiv immediately. Kharkiv is under attack from Russian forces.

It was in Kharkiv that first casualty of an Indian medical student was recorded on Tuesday (March 1).&nbsp;

Indian Air Force has also joined Operation Ganga and a plane

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-people-refuse-to-leave-furry-companions-behind-india-relaxes-norms-for-bringing-back-pets-from-ukraine-458120">As people refuse to leave furry companions behind, India relaxes norms for bringing back pets from Ukraine</a>

Separate from conversation between Modi and Putin, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar discussed the "deteriorating" situation in Ukraine with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Josep Borrell, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and his Estonian counterpart Eva-Maria Liimets.

"Discussed the deteriorating Ukraine situation with EU HR VP @JosepBorrellF, French FM @JY_LeDrian and Estonia FM @eliimets respectively. Reiterated India's stance that diplomacy and dialogue alone provide the answer. The cessation of violence is an urgent imperative," Jaishankar said in a tweet.

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. Russia on Wednesday made a huge claim that some Indian students in Kharkov (Kharkiv) were being held hostage by Ukrainian forces. The Russian side also said that these students were being used as human shields and that Russia was trying to organise 'urgent evacuation' of this group of students. The Russian side released this information in a readout given out after telephone conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin. As per the readout, Putin has given all necessary instructions to ensure safe evacuation of Indian citizens from the war zone. India has already launched 'Operation Ganga' to bring back Indian citizens and students who are caught in the Ukraine conflict. On Wednesday (March 2) Indian embassy in Ukraine issued an advisory for citizens and said that they "must leave" Kharkiv immediately. Kharkiv is under attack from Russian forces. It was in Kharkiv that first casualty of an Indian medical student was recorded on Tuesday (March 1). Indian Air Force has also joined Operation Ganga and a plane Also Read | As people refuse to leave furry companions behind, India relaxes norms for bringing back pets from Ukraine Separate from conversation between Modi and Putin, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar discussed the "deteriorating" situation in Ukraine with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Josep Borrell, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and his Estonian counterpart Eva-Maria Liimets. "Discussed the deteriorating Ukraine situation with EU HR VP @JosepBorrellF, French FM @JY_LeDrian and Estonia FM @eliimets respectively. Reiterated India's stance that diplomacy and dialogue alone provide the answer. The cessation of violence is an urgent imperative," Jaishankar said in a tweet.

Indian students taken hostage by Ukraine forces, says Russia after Putin-Modi phone call

Following Russia's military operations in Ukraine, the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) announced that the players from Russia and Belarus will be allowed to compete in ATP and World Tennis Association (WTA) events.

The decision comes despite many sports governing bodies including IOC, FIFA, UEFA imposing bans on the Russian players.

"A deep sense of distress, shock and sadness has been felt across the entire tennis community following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in the past week. Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine, and we commend the many tennis players who have spoken out and taken action against this unacceptable act of aggression. We echo their calls for the violence to end and peace to return," stated an official joint statement by International Governing Bodies of Tennis.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/issf-bans-athletes-from-russia-belarus-after-ukraine-invasion-458082">ISSF bans athletes from Russia, Belarus after Ukraine invasion</a>

"The safety of the tennis community is our most immediate collective priority. The focus of the WTA and ATP in particular in recent days has been on contacting current and former players, and other members of the tennis community from Ukraine and neighbouring countries to check on their safety and offer any assistance," stated further.

The WTA and ATP Boards have made the decision to suspend the WTA/ATP combined event scheduled this October in Moscow.

The ITF Board has made the decision to suspend the Russian Tennis Federation and Belarus Tennis Federation membership and to withdraw their entries from all ITF international team competitions until further notice.

This action follows the cancellation of all ITF tournaments in Russia and Belarus indefinitely.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ukraine-crisis-footballs-first-reported-losses-as-two-ukrainian-players-killed-during-russian-invasion-458012">Ukraine crisis: Football's first reported losses as two Ukrainian players killed during Russian invasion</a>

At this time, players from Russia and Belarus will continue to be allowed to compete in international tennis events on Tour and at the Grand Slams.

However, they will not compete under the name or flag of Russia or Belarus until further notice.

Following rising tension between Russia and Ukraine, the sports fraternity has become proactive and many events in Russia have been cancelled, including the Russian Grand Prix.

The Champions League final has also been moved out of Russia and it will now take place in Paris.

UEFA and FIFA have also barred Russia from international football until further notice.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-athletics-joins-sporting-bodies-in-banning-russian-and-belarusian-athletes-457935">World Athletics joins sporting bodies in banning Russian and Belarusian athletes</a>

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday had announced a military operation in Ukraine and warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to "consequences they have never seen."

Following Russia's military operations in Ukraine, the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) announced that the players from Russia and Belarus will be allowed to compete in ATP and World Tennis Association (WTA) events.

Following Russia's military operations in Ukraine, the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) announced that the players from Russia and Belarus will be allowed to compete in ATP and World Tennis Association (WTA) events. The decision comes despite many sports governing bodies including IOC, FIFA, UEFA imposing bans on the Russian players. "A deep sense of distress, shock and sadness has been felt across the entire tennis community following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in the past week. Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine, and we commend the many tennis players who have spoken out and taken action against this unacceptable act of aggression. We echo their calls for the violence to end and peace to return," stated an official joint statement by International Governing Bodies of Tennis. ALSO READ: ISSF bans athletes from Russia, Belarus after Ukraine invasion "The safety of the tennis community is our most immediate collective priority. The focus of the WTA and ATP in particular in recent days has been on contacting current and former players, and other members of the tennis community from Ukraine and neighbouring countries to check on their safety and offer any assistance," stated further. The WTA and ATP Boards have made the decision to suspend the WTA/ATP combined event scheduled this October in Moscow. The ITF Board has made the decision to suspend the Russian Tennis Federation and Belarus Tennis Federation membership and to withdraw their entries from all ITF international team competitions until further notice. This action follows the cancellation of all ITF tournaments in Russia and Belarus indefinitely. ALSO READ: Ukraine crisis: Football's first reported losses as two Ukrainian players killed during Russian invasion At this time, players from Russia and Belarus will continue to be allowed to compete in international tennis events on Tour and at the Grand Slams. However, they will not compete under the name or flag of Russia or Belarus until further notice. Following rising tension between Russia and Ukraine, the sports fraternity has become proactive and many events in Russia have been cancelled, including the Russian Grand Prix. The Champions League final has also been moved out of Russia and it will now take place in Paris. UEFA and FIFA have also barred Russia from international football until further notice. ALSO READ: World Athletics joins sporting bodies in banning Russian and Belarusian athletes Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday had announced a military operation in Ukraine and warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to "consequences they have never seen."

Players from Russia, Belarus allowed to compete in ATP, WTA events

Athletes from Russia and Belarus have been banned from participating in the ISSF Championships following Russia's ongoing military operation in Ukraine.

"Following the respective decision of the IOC Executive Board and a meeting with the IOC President, the ISSF decided that athletes from the Russian Federation and Belarus will not be allowed to take part in ISSF Championships," stated an official ISSF statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ukraine-crisis-footballs-first-reported-losses-as-two-ukrainian-players-killed-during-russian-invasion-458012">Ukraine crisis: Football's first reported losses as two Ukrainian players killed during Russian invasion</a>

"This decision entered into force at 16.00 CET on March 1, 2022, and is valid until upon further notice," he added.

Following rising tension between Russia and Ukraine, the sports fraternity has become proactive and many events in Russia have been cancelled, including the Russian Grand Prix.

The Champions League final has also been moved out of Russia and it will now take place in Paris.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/adidas-suspends-partnership-with-russian-football-union-amid-inavsion-of-ukraine-457919">Adidas suspends partnership with Russian football union amid inavsion of Ukraine</a>

UEFA and FIFA have also barred Russia from international football until further notice.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday had announced a military operation in Ukraine and warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to "consequences they have never seen."

Athletes from Russia and Belarus have been banned from participating in the ISSF Championships following Russia's ongoing military operation in Ukraine. "Following the respective decision of the IOC Executive Board and a meeting with the IOC President, the ISSF decided that athletes from the Russian Federation and Belarus will not be allowed to take part in ISSF Championships," stated an official ISSF statement.

Athletes from Russia and Belarus have been banned from participating in the ISSF Championships following Russia's ongoing military operation in Ukraine. "Following the respective decision of the IOC Executive Board and a meeting with the IOC President, the ISSF decided that athletes from the Russian Federation and Belarus will not be allowed to take part in ISSF Championships," stated an official ISSF statement. ALSO READ: Ukraine crisis: Football's first reported losses as two Ukrainian players killed during Russian invasion "This decision entered into force at 16.00 CET on March 1, 2022, and is valid until upon further notice," he added. Following rising tension between Russia and Ukraine, the sports fraternity has become proactive and many events in Russia have been cancelled, including the Russian Grand Prix. The Champions League final has also been moved out of Russia and it will now take place in Paris. ALSO READ: Adidas suspends partnership with Russian football union amid inavsion of Ukraine UEFA and FIFA have also barred Russia from international football until further notice. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday had announced a military operation in Ukraine and warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to "consequences they have never seen."

ISSF bans athletes from Russia, Belarus after Ukraine invasion

The Badminton World Federation on Tuesday announced its decision to suspend Russian and Belarusan athletes, officials from participating in any BWF-sanctioned international tournaments until further notice.

"Following consultation with international sport movement partners overnight, the Badminton World Federation (BWF) has updated its position regarding Russia`s military invasion of Ukraine," BWF in a statement said.

BWF has strengthened its measures against the governments of Russia and Belarus by suspending athletes and officials representing these countries from participating in any BWF-sanctioned international tournaments until further notice. This is in line with new recommendations from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board released Monday aimed at preserving the integrity of competitions and ensuring the safety of all athletes. It also supports a united and coordinated approach within the sports movement in handing down sanctions against Russia and Belarus.BWF already moved to cancel all BWF-sanctioned tournaments in Russia and Belarus effective immediately. The enforced non-participation of badminton athletes and officials from Russia and Belarus commences at the German Open 2022 (8-13 March).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-fifa-to-ioc-how-sporting-bodies-have-shunned-russia-after-ukraine-invasion-457891">From FIFA to IOC: How sporting bodies have shunned Russia after Ukraine invasion</a>

A small number of Russian athletes competing in two back-to-back international Para badminton tournaments in Spain in Weeks 9 and 10 of the calendar will be allowed to participate as they have already arrived on location. This is on the premise that it is not possible on short notice to enforce the suspension of players due to organisational reasons as per the IOC EB`s latest resolution. These players, however, will compete as neutral athletes, with no national flags or anthems."BWF remains committed to supporting the people of Ukraine, and the Ukrainian badminton community, as part of the sports movement`s mission to promote peace and solidarity between all people," BWF in a statement added.

The Badminton World Federation on Tuesday announced its decision to suspend Russian and Belarusan athletes, officials from participating in any BWF-sanctioned international tournaments until further notice.

The Badminton World Federation on Tuesday announced its decision to suspend Russian and Belarusan athletes, officials from participating in any BWF-sanctioned international tournaments until further notice. "Following consultation with international sport movement partners overnight, the Badminton World Federation (BWF) has updated its position regarding Russia`s military invasion of Ukraine," BWF in a statement said. BWF has strengthened its measures against the governments of Russia and Belarus by suspending athletes and officials representing these countries from participating in any BWF-sanctioned international tournaments until further notice. This is in line with new recommendations from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board released Monday aimed at preserving the integrity of competitions and ensuring the safety of all athletes. It also supports a united and coordinated approach within the sports movement in handing down sanctions against Russia and Belarus.BWF already moved to cancel all BWF-sanctioned tournaments in Russia and Belarus effective immediately. The enforced non-participation of badminton athletes and officials from Russia and Belarus commences at the German Open 2022 (8-13 March). ALSO READ | From FIFA to IOC: How sporting bodies have shunned Russia after Ukraine invasion A small number of Russian athletes competing in two back-to-back international Para badminton tournaments in Spain in Weeks 9 and 10 of the calendar will be allowed to participate as they have already arrived on location. This is on the premise that it is not possible on short notice to enforce the suspension of players due to organisational reasons as per the IOC EB`s latest resolution. These players, however, will compete as neutral athletes, with no national flags or anthems."BWF remains committed to supporting the people of Ukraine, and the Ukrainian badminton community, as part of the sports movement`s mission to promote peace and solidarity between all people," BWF in a statement added.

Ukraine crisis: BWF suspend Russian and Belarusan athletes, officials

While Google barred Russia’s state-owned media outlet RT, YouTube was 'pausing' some Russian channels on its platform. A lot is happening in the tech world after the invasion of Ukraine. #ukraine #russia #putin

Here's how tech giants are combating Russia's invasion of Ukraine

Russian-British media tycoon Evgeny Lebedev has pleaded with Russian President Vladimir Putin to "stop" the "war" through his prominent media publication. Lebedev is the son of Alexander Lebedev, a former KGB spy. Through his newspaper, Lebedev has called on Putin to use path of peace negotiations to stop Ukraine conflict and resolve differences.

"As Europe stands on the brink of another world war, and the world on the brink of a possible nuclear disaster, I plead with you to use today’s negotiations to bring this terrible conflict in Ukraine to an end," Lebedev wrote.

"As a Russian citizen I plead with you to stop Russians killing their Ukrainian brothers and sisters. As a British citizen I ask you to save Europe from war."

Lebedev was made a lifelong member of Britain's upper house of parliament in July 2020 with the title Baron Lebedev of Hampton in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and of Siberia in the Russian Federation

He also owns the Independent daily online British newspaper.

Lebedev's father once worked as a spy at the Soviet embassy in London but then built a fortune by trading securities in the chaos that followed the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian-British media tycoon Evgeny Lebedev has pleaded with Russian President Vladimir Putin to "stop" the "war" through his prominent media publication. Lebedev is the son of Alexander Lebedev, a former KGB spy.

Russian-British media tycoon Evgeny Lebedev has pleaded with Russian President Vladimir Putin to "stop" the "war" through his prominent media publication. Lebedev is the son of Alexander Lebedev, a former KGB spy. Through his newspaper, Lebedev has called on Putin to use path of peace negotiations to stop Ukraine conflict and resolve differences. "As Europe stands on the brink of another world war, and the world on the brink of a possible nuclear disaster, I plead with you to use today’s negotiations to bring this terrible conflict in Ukraine to an end," Lebedev wrote. "As a Russian citizen I plead with you to stop Russians killing their Ukrainian brothers and sisters. As a British citizen I ask you to save Europe from war." Lebedev was made a lifelong member of Britain's upper house of parliament in July 2020 with the title Baron Lebedev of Hampton in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and of Siberia in the Russian Federation He also owns the Independent daily online British newspaper. Lebedev's father once worked as a spy at the Soviet embassy in London but then built a fortune by trading securities in the chaos that followed the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine conflict: Russian-British media boss requests Putin to 'stop' the 'war'

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday decided to put his nuclear forces on alert. This decision was panned by the Western countries.&nbsp;

North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg decried Putin's decision as being an "irresponsible" one

"This is dangerous rhetoric. This is a behavior which is irresponsible," the alliance's secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg told CNN amid heightened tensions over the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

"And, of course, if you combine this rhetoric with what they're doing on the ground in Ukraine, waging war against the independent sovereign nation, conducting a full-fledged invasion of Ukraine, this adds to the seriousness of the situation,” he added.

The US indicated its displeasure too. It said this escalation was "totally unacceptable".

"This is a pattern that we've seen from President Putin through the course of this conflict, which is manufacturing threats that don't exist in order to justify further aggression," White House press secretary Jen Psaki said on ABC when asked about the announcement from Moscow.

The American ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said she condemned Putin's step in the strongest terms.&nbsp;

"It means that President Putin is continuing to escalate this war in a manner that is totally unacceptable," Thomas-Greenfield said in an interview on CBS.

Moscow has the world's second-largest arsenal of nuclear weapons and a huge cache of ballistic missiles which form the backbone of the country's deterrence forces.

Putin said he was putting Russia's nuclear forces on high alert because, he said, Western countries are taking "unfriendly" steps against his country.

The US and its allies have unleashed sweeping and punishing economic sanctions against Russia because of its invasion of Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday decided to put his nuclear forces on alert. This decision was panned by the Western countries. North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg decried Putin's decision as being an "irresponsible" one "This is dangerous rhetoric.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday decided to put his nuclear forces on alert. This decision was panned by the Western countries. North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg decried Putin's decision as being an "irresponsible" one "This is dangerous rhetoric. This is a behavior which is irresponsible," the alliance's secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg told CNN amid heightened tensions over the Russian invasion of Ukraine. "And, of course, if you combine this rhetoric with what they're doing on the ground in Ukraine, waging war against the independent sovereign nation, conducting a full-fledged invasion of Ukraine, this adds to the seriousness of the situation,” he added. The US indicated its displeasure too. It said this escalation was "totally unacceptable". "This is a pattern that we've seen from President Putin through the course of this conflict, which is manufacturing threats that don't exist in order to justify further aggression," White House press secretary Jen Psaki said on ABC when asked about the announcement from Moscow. The American ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said she condemned Putin's step in the strongest terms. "It means that President Putin is continuing to escalate this war in a manner that is totally unacceptable," Thomas-Greenfield said in an interview on CBS. Moscow has the world's second-largest arsenal of nuclear weapons and a huge cache of ballistic missiles which form the backbone of the country's deterrence forces. Putin said he was putting Russia's nuclear forces on high alert because, he said, Western countries are taking "unfriendly" steps against his country. The US and its allies have unleashed sweeping and punishing economic sanctions against Russia because of its invasion of Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia receives flak for putting nuclear forces on alert

How Premier League clubs united to express solidarity with Ukraine amid war with Russia

Russia's recognition on 21st February of Ukraine’s self-declared independent regions of Donetsk and Luhansk in Donbas region of the Eastern Ukraine, deployment of forces under the guise of Peacekeeping Forces for the “protection” of the civilians, followed by full-scale military invasion in Ukraine on 24th February has drawn curtains on Act 1 of the drama.

The lead actors include President Putin of the Russian Federation on the one hand and President Biden of the USA and his NATO allies on the other, while the script revolves around&nbsp;President Zelensky of Ukraine.

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The USA and allies have imposed stringed sanctions on Russia, deployed forces on the territories of NATO Member countries in the neighbourhood, assured continued political, diplomatic, economic and military assistance to Ukraine but have made it clear that there is no plan to send NATO forces to Ukraine to fight Russia together with /on behalf of Ukraine.&nbsp;

It remains under suspense as to how the drama will unfold in subsequent acts.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-the-ghost-of-kyiv-the-ace-pilot-giving-hope-to-ukrainians-456795">Who is the ‘Ghost of Kyiv’? The ace pilot giving hope to Ukrainians</a>

The drama can be said to have begun in December last year when Russia sought a set of legally binding assurances including a halt on NATO's further eastwards expansion nearer to Russia's borders. Russia demanded in particular that two of Russia's next-door neighbours namely Ukraine and Georgia be declined NATO membership.

The rather impossible demands came in the backdrop of a massive military build-up by Russia along its borders with Ukraine and prolonged military exercise in Belarus, and also the ongoing clashes in eastern Ukraine between the separatist forces (supported by Russia) &nbsp;and the Ukrainian military. 
&nbsp; 
The origins of the current phase of the standoff between the West and Russia can be traced to the period immediately after the disintegration of the USSR in 1991 when the West adopted a policy of ideological conquest of the former Soviet Union and its satellite countries in East Europe through financial and technical assistance.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-announces-historic-deployment-of-forces-to-bolster-eastern-europe-after-ukraine-invasion-456810">NATO announces 'historic' deployment of forces to bolster Eastern Europe after Ukraine invasion</a>

Gradually, NATO began to increase its footprints in the post-Soviet space. Beginning from 1999 the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland (1999), Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia (2004), Albania and Croatia (2009), Montenegro (2017) and North Macedonia (2020) have been taken into the fold of NATO.

Russia calls this expansion a breach of promises and assurances by NATO given to Russia in the wake of the disintegration of the USSR. However, being relatively weak, Russia could do nothing to halt this process. The situation changed with the advent of President Putin as Russia’s leader from 2000 onwards.&nbsp;

So when NATO announced in April 2008 that Georgia and Ukraine will be members of NATO (though no specific dates were indicated) Russia acted swiftly; it recognised the self-declared independence of two breakaway regions of Georgia namely Abkhazia and South Ossetia, intervened militarily and has since consolidated its positions in those regions. &nbsp;

In 2014, when the pro-Russia government in Ukraine was replaced by a pro-Western regime in Ukraine, Russia reacted again and this time successfully manipulated Ukraine’s Crimean peninsula’s incorporation into Russian Federation, often described as Crimea’s annexation..

Reverting to the current phase of crisis, it appears in hindsight that Russia from the very beginning had made up its mind at least to trifurcate Ukraine and take Eastern Ukraine under its influence and control.

Russia now appears to be going much further with the objective of subjugating entire Ukraine and even installing a puppet or at least a more pliable/ neutral regime in Ukraine.

President Putin is reported to have encouraged the Ukraine Armed Forces to take full control of the country suggesting that it would be easier to deal with them rather than the civilian leadership.

At this point of time, there is a fairly good clarity about the intentions of Russia and also the positions taken by the USA and its allies so far. At the same time there are many imponderables: Will Ukraine be able to resist Russia and compel it to withdraw? &nbsp;Looks difficult. Are we then heading for a scenario of the fall of Kiev or urban insurgency? What else the USA and NATO allies can or will do besides current efforts to isolate Russia diplomatically and weaken it economically by imposing sanctions.

Will there be an attempt to invoke Chapter VII of the UN Charter to send international armed forces (read NATO) into Ukraine?&nbsp;

The economic sanctions have so far not deterred Russia. And in the given case the sanctions can also act as a double-edged sword causing an adverse impact on the energy security of Europe. Biden has already cautioned the American public in this regard though he has also assured to minimise the impact on the US population.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian crisis is a test for India’s diplomacy. It must be noted that India is not in alliance with USA or Russia, and to that extent India is not obliged to take sides with either of them.

At the same time, India has strong partnerships with both the USA and Russia, besides good relations with Europe and also Ukraine. Prima-facie, India has so far taken a balanced position. Some observers have described it as a neutral stance reminiscent of the period of non-alignment.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Note must be taken of the key element in India’s statements in which India has called for the resolution of the issue in a manner that would address the “legitimate security interests” of all concerned.

It requires a careful reading between the lines to determine whose “legitimate security interests” are under real threat. Is the tilt not slightly in favour of Russia whose security concerns arising out of NATO’s eastwards expansion appear genuine?.

Whether it entitles Russia to use force to address its concerns is a matter of entirely different and difficult debate as it involves issues such as sovereignty, territorial integrity on the one hand and the concept of indivisible security on the other.

The evacuation of estimated 20,000 Indian nationals mostly students stranded in Ukraine is India’s top priority at the moment. India’s track record in the evacuation of Indian national from conflict regions is commendable. In the given case, the situation is complicated by the fact that the Indian nationals are spread in various parts of Ukraine some of which are in conflict zones, and it is not possible to send flights to Ukraine as its airspace is closed.

Alternate arrangements for evacuation through land routes to neighbouring countries such as Romania, Hungary etc. en-route to India through Chartered flights sponsored by the Indian Government are underway albeit with partial success so far. One hopes that all &nbsp;Indian nationals are able to return home safely. It is pointless to debate now as to whether or not it would have been desirable to begin the process a few weeks earlier.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the experts do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views.)

Russia's recognition on 21st February of Ukraine’s self-declared independent regions of Donetsk and Luhansk in Donbas region of the Eastern Ukraine, deployment of forces under the guise of Peacekeeping Forces for the “protection” of the civilians, followed by full-scale military invasion in Ukraine on 24th February has drawn curtains on Act 1 of the drama.

Russia's recognition on 21st February of Ukraine’s self-declared independent regions of Donetsk and Luhansk in Donbas region of the Eastern Ukraine, deployment of forces under the guise of Peacekeeping Forces for the “protection” of the civilians, followed by full-scale military invasion in Ukraine on 24th February has drawn curtains on Act 1 of the drama. The lead actors include President Putin of the Russian Federation on the one hand and President Biden of the USA and his NATO allies on the other, while the script revolves around President Zelensky of Ukraine. × The USA and allies have imposed stringed sanctions on Russia, deployed forces on the territories of NATO Member countries in the neighbourhood, assured continued political, diplomatic, economic and military assistance to Ukraine but have made it clear that there is no plan to send NATO forces to Ukraine to fight Russia together with /on behalf of Ukraine. It remains under suspense as to how the drama will unfold in subsequent acts. Also Read | Who is the ‘Ghost of Kyiv’? The ace pilot giving hope to Ukrainians The drama can be said to have begun in December last year when Russia sought a set of legally binding assurances including a halt on NATO's further eastwards expansion nearer to Russia's borders. Russia demanded in particular that two of Russia's next-door neighbours namely Ukraine and Georgia be declined NATO membership. The rather impossible demands came in the backdrop of a massive military build-up by Russia along its borders with Ukraine and prolonged military exercise in Belarus, and also the ongoing clashes in eastern Ukraine between the separatist forces (supported by Russia) and the Ukrainian military. The origins of the current phase of the standoff between the West and Russia can be traced to the period immediately after the disintegration of the USSR in 1991 when the West adopted a policy of ideological conquest of the former Soviet Union and its satellite countries in East Europe through financial and technical assistance. Also Read | NATO announces 'historic' deployment of forces to bolster Eastern Europe after Ukraine invasion Gradually, NATO began to increase its footprints in the post-Soviet space. Beginning from 1999 the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland (1999), Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia (2004), Albania and Croatia (2009), Montenegro (2017) and North Macedonia (2020) have been taken into the fold of NATO. Russia calls this expansion a breach of promises and assurances by NATO given to Russia in the wake of the disintegration of the USSR. However, being relatively weak, Russia could do nothing to halt this process. The situation changed with the advent of President Putin as Russia’s leader from 2000 onwards. So when NATO announced in April 2008 that Georgia and Ukraine will be members of NATO (though no specific dates were indicated) Russia acted swiftly; it recognised the self-declared independence of two breakaway regions of Georgia namely Abkhazia and South Ossetia, intervened militarily and has since consolidated its positions in those regions. In 2014, when the pro-Russia government in Ukraine was replaced by a pro-Western regime in Ukraine, Russia reacted again and this time successfully manipulated Ukraine’s Crimean peninsula’s incorporation into Russian Federation, often described as Crimea’s annexation.. Reverting to the current phase of crisis, it appears in hindsight that Russia from the very beginning had made up its mind at least to trifurcate Ukraine and take Eastern Ukraine under its influence and control. Russia now appears to be going much further with the objective of subjugating entire Ukraine and even installing a puppet or at least a more pliable/ neutral regime in Ukraine. President Putin is reported to have encouraged the Ukraine Armed Forces to take full control of the country suggesting that it would be easier to deal with them rather than the civilian leadership. At this point of time, there is a fairly good clarity about the intentions of Russia and also the positions taken by the USA and its allies so far. At the same time there are many imponderables: Will Ukraine be able to resist Russia and compel it to withdraw? Looks difficult. Are we then heading for a scenario of the fall of Kiev or urban insurgency? What else the USA and NATO allies can or will do besides current efforts to isolate Russia diplomatically and weaken it economically by imposing sanctions. Will there be an attempt to invoke Chapter VII of the UN Charter to send international armed forces (read NATO) into Ukraine? The economic sanctions have so far not deterred Russia. And in the given case the sanctions can also act as a double-edged sword causing an adverse impact on the energy security of Europe. Biden has already cautioned the American public in this regard though he has also assured to minimise the impact on the US population. The Ukrainian crisis is a test for India’s diplomacy. It must be noted that India is not in alliance with USA or Russia, and to that extent India is not obliged to take sides with either of them. At the same time, India has strong partnerships with both the USA and Russia, besides good relations with Europe and also Ukraine. Prima-facie, India has so far taken a balanced position. Some observers have described it as a neutral stance reminiscent of the period of non-alignment. Note must be taken of the key element in India’s statements in which India has called for the resolution of the issue in a manner that would address the “legitimate security interests” of all concerned. It requires a careful reading between the lines to determine whose “legitimate security interests” are under real threat. Is the tilt not slightly in favour of Russia whose security concerns arising out of NATO’s eastwards expansion appear genuine?. Whether it entitles Russia to use force to address its concerns is a matter of entirely different and difficult debate as it involves issues such as sovereignty, territorial integrity on the one hand and the concept of indivisible security on the other. The evacuation of estimated 20,000 Indian nationals mostly students stranded in Ukraine is India’s top priority at the moment. India’s track record in the evacuation of Indian national from conflict regions is commendable. In the given case, the situation is complicated by the fact that the Indian nationals are spread in various parts of Ukraine some of which are in conflict zones, and it is not possible to send flights to Ukraine as its airspace is closed. Alternate arrangements for evacuation through land routes to neighbouring countries such as Romania, Hungary etc. en-route to India through Chartered flights sponsored by the Indian Government are underway albeit with partial success so far. One hopes that all Indian nationals are able to return home safely. It is pointless to debate now as to whether or not it would have been desirable to begin the process a few weeks earlier. (Disclaimer: The views of the experts do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views.)

How far will the Ukraine crisis go?

Russia has vetoed the United Nations Security Council resolution over the Ukraine crisis. In the UNSC meeting, 11 members have voted in favor of the resolution.

Ukraine-Russia conflict: Why Russia vetoed UNSC resolution?

The Weeknd faced a severe backlash over his tweet that probably had very bad timing.&nbsp; 
 
The whole world was shocked after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-updates-eu-agrees-to-freeze-assets-of-putin-lavrov-over-war-on-ukraine-455211">military operation</a> on Ukraine&nbsp;and at the same time coincidentally, the 'Blinding Lights' singer tweeted “LET’S GOOOOOOOO” on Wednesday night when the news about Russian invade broke.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-why-is-chernobyl-nuclear-power-plant-important-456329">Explainer: Why is Chernobyl nuclear power plant important? &nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

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LET’S GOOOOOOOO
— The Weeknd (@theweeknd) <a href="https://twitter.com/theweeknd/status/1496690244753641472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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“Horrible timing, king, horrible timing,” one follower commented. “At a time like this??” another user tweeted. “I mean, not the best timing,” one fan responded.

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At a time like this??
— Schlatt (@jschlatt) <a href="https://twitter.com/jschlatt/status/1496696738148540420?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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You should probably delete this before it gets taken out of context even more 😬
— ShadowOpsFN (@GhostOpsFN) <a href="https://twitter.com/GhostOpsFN/status/1496702128269766656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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I mean, not the best timing. <a href="https://t.co/42ZgKZIkmu">pic.twitter.com/42ZgKZIkmu</a>
— Rick Savage (@ricksavage) <a href="https://twitter.com/ricksavage/status/1496693311779729408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Looking at his several other tweets, it seems that the 32-year-old Canadian musician was leaving some hints about the mysterious project.&nbsp; 
 
After he received some backlash for poor timing on social media, he gave a clarification and wrote, “unfortunately i’m just now seeing what’s happening with the onflict and will pause on tomorrow’s announcement. i pray for everyone’s safety.”

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unfortunately i’m just now seeing what’s happening with the conflict and will pause on tomorrow’s announcement. i pray for everyone’s safety. 🙏🏾
— The Weeknd (@theweeknd) <a href="https://twitter.com/theweeknd/status/1496723322481963009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Many celebrities from around the world have also reacted to the Ukraine-Russia conflict, including Stephen King, Priyanka Chopra and Cardi B.

The Weeknd faced a severe backlash over his tweet that probably had very bad timing. The whole world was shocked after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a military operation on Ukraine and at the same time coincidentally, the 'Blinding Lights' singer tweeted “LET’S GOOOOOOOO” on Wednesday night when the news about Russian invade broke.

The Weeknd faced a severe backlash over his tweet that probably had very bad timing. The whole world was shocked after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a military operation on Ukraine and at the same time coincidentally, the 'Blinding Lights' singer tweeted “LET’S GOOOOOOOO” on Wednesday night when the news about Russian invade broke. Explainer: Why is Chernobyl nuclear power plant important? LET’S GOOOOOOOO — The Weeknd (@theweeknd) February 24, 2022 × “Horrible timing, king, horrible timing,” one follower commented. “At a time like this??” another user tweeted. “I mean, not the best timing,” one fan responded. At a time like this?? — Schlatt (@jschlatt) February 24, 2022 × You should probably delete this before it gets taken out of context even more 😬 — ShadowOpsFN (@GhostOpsFN) February 24, 2022 × I mean, not the best timing. pic.twitter.com/42ZgKZIkmu — Rick Savage (@ricksavage) February 24, 2022 × Looking at his several other tweets, it seems that the 32-year-old Canadian musician was leaving some hints about the mysterious project. After he received some backlash for poor timing on social media, he gave a clarification and wrote, “unfortunately i’m just now seeing what’s happening with the onflict and will pause on tomorrow’s announcement. i pray for everyone’s safety.” unfortunately i’m just now seeing what’s happening with the conflict and will pause on tomorrow’s announcement. i pray for everyone’s safety. 🙏🏾 — The Weeknd (@theweeknd) February 24, 2022 × Many celebrities from around the world have also reacted to the Ukraine-Russia conflict, including Stephen King, Priyanka Chopra and Cardi B.

The Weeknd gives clarification on his poorly timed tweets amid the Ukraine crisis

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the launch of a military operation against Ukraine on Thursday (February 24) as news agencies mentioned that Russian ground forces invaded Ukraine from several directions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-envoy-seeks-pm-modis-intervention-in-russia-ukraine-conflict-cites-chanakya-and-kautilya-456035">Ukraine envoy seeks PM Modi's intervention in Russia-Ukraine conflict; cites Chanakya and Kautilya</a>

How did the Russia-Ukraine border crisis got escalated to a war-like situation? Here's a timeline of months of tensions around Ukraine:

Troop movements 
On November 10, 2021, the United States reports unusual Russian troop movements near the Ukrainian border.

On November 28, Ukraine said Russia is massing nearly 92,000 troops for an offensive at the end of January or early February.

However, Moscow denies it and accused Kyiv of a military build-up of its own.&nbsp;

Russia also demanded "legal guarantees" that Ukraine will never join NATO.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-closes-airspace-to-civilian-flights-air-indias-special-flight-returns-mid-air-455945">Ukraine closes airspace to civilian flights, Air India's special flight returns mid-air</a>

Moscow demands 
On December 7, US President Joe Biden threatened Russian counterpart Putin with "strong economic and other measures" if he invades Ukraine. &nbsp;

Ten days later, Moscow put forward proposals to limit US and NATO influence on former Soviet states.

Build-up in Belarus 
On January 17, Russian troops began arriving in ex-Soviet Belarus for military drills. At that point in time, said that the drills were aimed at "thwarting external aggression".

Two days later, Washington announced an extra $200 million in security aid to Kyiv.&nbsp;

NATO on standby 
On January 24, NATO put troops on standby and sent ships and fighter jets to bolster Europe's eastern defences. The next day, Moscow began military exercises involving some 6,000 troops and at least 60 fighter jets in southern Russia near Ukraine and in Moscow-annexed Crimea.&nbsp;

On January 26, Washington refused to shut the NATO door on Ukraine and the alliance said many of Moscow's security demands are "unrealistic".&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/russia-ukraine-conflict-how-is-india-planning-its-response-considering-indian-students-in-kiev-455987">Russia-Ukraine conflict: How is India planning its response considering Indian students in Kiev</a>

China warns US 
The United States said it believes Putin "is going to use military force between now and the middle of February". The next day, China warned that Russia's security concerns should be "taken seriously".&nbsp;

On January 28, Putin said the West has ignored "Russia's fundamental concerns" on NATO's expansion and has "strike weapons systems near Russia's borders".&nbsp;

Manoeuvres in Belarus 
On February 2, the United States sent 3,000 troops to fortify NATO forces in eastern Europe. Russia and Belarus began 10 days of military manoeuvres on February 10.&nbsp;

Retreat or reinforcement? 
On February 15, Moscow said some of its forces are returning to their bases. But NATO claimed that it saw no sign of a withdrawal.

Artillery fire 
On February 17, shellfire intensified all along the frontline of the two Russian-backed enclaves in eastern Ukraine. A day later, the leaders of the Donetsk and Lugansk separatist regions said they are evacuating residents to Russia.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken accused Moscow of "false provocations" to justify further "aggression" against Ukraine.&nbsp;

Attack imminent? 
On February 19, Ukraine said that two of its soldiers died in attacks on the frontline with Russian-backed separatists. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky proposed a meeting with Putin, as Moscow test-fired nuclear-capable missiles. Russia is "on the brink" of invading Ukraine, Washington said.&nbsp;

Putin-Biden summit? 
France and Germany called on their nationals to leave Ukraine. On February 21, France said that Putin and Biden have agreed in principle to a summit.&nbsp;

But the White House said it was notably cautious and the Kremlin said it is too early. The Russian military said it has killed five "saboteurs" who crossed into Russia from Ukraine. Ukraine denied the claims.&nbsp;

Putin recognises separatist republics 
In a televised address on February 22, Putin recognised the independence of two separatist regions in eastern Ukraine. Putin ordered Russian troops into separatist areas in eastern Ukraine on a "peacekeeping" mission.&nbsp;

Condemnation and sanctions 
Several hours later during an emergency Security Council session, the UN and most of its members denounced the Russian decisions.

Washington said it will slap new sanctions on Russia. The EU will also adopt sanctions, the bloc's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said.&nbsp;

Moscow said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is still ready for talks with Blinken, whom he is scheduled to meet in Geneva on Thursday.&nbsp;

Putin announces military operation 
On Thursday (February 24), Putin announced a military operation in Ukraine in a surprise television address. He called on Ukrainian soldiers to lay down their arms, claiming he wants a "demilitarisation" of the former Soviet state but not its occupation.&nbsp;

Explosions were heard 
Explosions were heard ring out before dawn in Ukraine's capital Kyiv and several cities near the frontline and along the country's coast.

'Full-scale invasion' 
Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba accused Putin of launching a "full-scale invasion".

Martial law 
Zelensky declared martial law and later broke diplomatic ties with Russia.&nbsp;

'Maximum losses' 
The head of the Ukrainian military said that he has received orders from Zelensky to repel a Russian invasion and to "inflict maximum losses".

Airbases, defences 'destroyed' 
Russia's defence ministry said it has neutralised Ukrainian military airbases and its air defence systems.&nbsp;

50 'occupiers' killed 
Ukraine said it has killed "around 50 Russian occupiers" while repulsing an attack on a town on the frontline with Moscow-backed rebels.

China watches 'closely' 
China called for restraint on all sides and said it is "closely watching" the latest situation.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine claims to have downed 5 Russian planes, calls on army veterans to join

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(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the launch of a military operation against Ukraine on Thursday (February 24) as news agencies mentioned that Russian ground forces invaded Ukraine from several directions.

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the launch of a military operation against Ukraine on Thursday (February 24) as news agencies mentioned that Russian ground forces invaded Ukraine from several directions. ALSO READ | Ukraine envoy seeks PM Modi's intervention in Russia-Ukraine conflict; cites Chanakya and Kautilya How did the Russia-Ukraine border crisis got escalated to a war-like situation? Here's a timeline of months of tensions around Ukraine: Troop movements On November 10, 2021, the United States reports unusual Russian troop movements near the Ukrainian border. On November 28, Ukraine said Russia is massing nearly 92,000 troops for an offensive at the end of January or early February. However, Moscow denies it and accused Kyiv of a military build-up of its own. Russia also demanded "legal guarantees" that Ukraine will never join NATO. ALSO READ | Ukraine closes airspace to civilian flights, Air India's special flight returns mid-air Moscow demands On December 7, US President Joe Biden threatened Russian counterpart Putin with "strong economic and other measures" if he invades Ukraine. Ten days later, Moscow put forward proposals to limit US and NATO influence on former Soviet states. Build-up in Belarus On January 17, Russian troops began arriving in ex-Soviet Belarus for military drills. At that point in time, said that the drills were aimed at "thwarting external aggression". Two days later, Washington announced an extra $200 million in security aid to Kyiv. NATO on standby On January 24, NATO put troops on standby and sent ships and fighter jets to bolster Europe's eastern defences. The next day, Moscow began military exercises involving some 6,000 troops and at least 60 fighter jets in southern Russia near Ukraine and in Moscow-annexed Crimea. On January 26, Washington refused to shut the NATO door on Ukraine and the alliance said many of Moscow's security demands are "unrealistic". ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine conflict: How is India planning its response considering Indian students in Kiev China warns US The United States said it believes Putin "is going to use military force between now and the middle of February". The next day, China warned that Russia's security concerns should be "taken seriously". On January 28, Putin said the West has ignored "Russia's fundamental concerns" on NATO's expansion and has "strike weapons systems near Russia's borders". Manoeuvres in Belarus On February 2, the United States sent 3,000 troops to fortify NATO forces in eastern Europe. Russia and Belarus began 10 days of military manoeuvres on February 10. Retreat or reinforcement? On February 15, Moscow said some of its forces are returning to their bases. But NATO claimed that it saw no sign of a withdrawal. Artillery fire On February 17, shellfire intensified all along the frontline of the two Russian-backed enclaves in eastern Ukraine. A day later, the leaders of the Donetsk and Lugansk separatist regions said they are evacuating residents to Russia. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken accused Moscow of "false provocations" to justify further "aggression" against Ukraine. Attack imminent? On February 19, Ukraine said that two of its soldiers died in attacks on the frontline with Russian-backed separatists. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky proposed a meeting with Putin, as Moscow test-fired nuclear-capable missiles. Russia is "on the brink" of invading Ukraine, Washington said. Putin-Biden summit? France and Germany called on their nationals to leave Ukraine. On February 21, France said that Putin and Biden have agreed in principle to a summit. But the White House said it was notably cautious and the Kremlin said it is too early. The Russian military said it has killed five "saboteurs" who crossed into Russia from Ukraine. Ukraine denied the claims. Putin recognises separatist republics In a televised address on February 22, Putin recognised the independence of two separatist regions in eastern Ukraine. Putin ordered Russian troops into separatist areas in eastern Ukraine on a "peacekeeping" mission. Condemnation and sanctions Several hours later during an emergency Security Council session, the UN and most of its members denounced the Russian decisions. Washington said it will slap new sanctions on Russia. The EU will also adopt sanctions, the bloc's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said. Moscow said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is still ready for talks with Blinken, whom he is scheduled to meet in Geneva on Thursday. Putin announces military operation On Thursday (February 24), Putin announced a military operation in Ukraine in a surprise television address. He called on Ukrainian soldiers to lay down their arms, claiming he wants a "demilitarisation" of the former Soviet state but not its occupation. Explosions were heard Explosions were heard ring out before dawn in Ukraine's capital Kyiv and several cities near the frontline and along the country's coast. 'Full-scale invasion' Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba accused Putin of launching a "full-scale invasion". Martial law Zelensky declared martial law and later broke diplomatic ties with Russia. 'Maximum losses' The head of the Ukrainian military said that he has received orders from Zelensky to repel a Russian invasion and to "inflict maximum losses". Airbases, defences 'destroyed' Russia's defence ministry said it has neutralised Ukrainian military airbases and its air defence systems. 50 'occupiers' killed Ukraine said it has killed "around 50 Russian occupiers" while repulsing an attack on a town on the frontline with Moscow-backed rebels. China watches 'closely' China called for restraint on all sides and said it is "closely watching" the latest situation. WATCH | Ukraine claims to have downed 5 Russian planes, calls on army veterans to join × (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine under attack: Here's a timeline of months of tensions around Russia-Ukraine conflict

A drunk sat on a bench, swaying. A few older women, bundled against a biting wind, scurried from a grocery store, clutching plastic bags. Otherwise, the streets of Shchastya were deserted, while the thud of mortar and artillery fire reverberated through town.

Shchastya means “happiness” in Ukrainian, but in recent days the town has been one of the saddest places on earth, and may get a whole lot worse.

With its largely Russian-speaking and Russia-backing population, its proximity to the front lines in eastern Ukraine and the presence of a strategic electrical generating plant, it is particularly vulnerable to attack by separatist forces lurking on the far bank of the river running through town.

That has led military analysts and Ukrainian officials to suggest that Shchastya may well emerge as the stepping off point for a Russia's invasion of Ukraine, an offensive originating in the separatist areas that Moscow recognized as independent states on Monday.

The mayor, Oleksandr Bunets, stood outside city hall on Wednesday, smoking a cigarette and surveying the desultory scene. The day before, Shchastya had taken the heaviest shelling in the region, and fighting continued Wednesday between the government and Russian-backed separatist fighters.

“They will try to capture the town,” said Bunets, who was appointed to his position as military-civilian administrator because the townspeople had kept on electing Russian sympathizers as mayor. “They tried yesterday, and they tried the day before.”

In a report released by the Ukrainian Ministry of Interior overnight on Wednesday, listing attacks on government-controlled territory in eastern Ukraine, Shchastya and its environs were by far the most-targeted sites. The report listed 917 instances of incoming munitions from tanks, artillery, mortars, rocket-propelled grenades and small arms.

Stanytsia Luhanska, about a half-hour’s drive to the east, was the second-most active site, the report said, with 220 instances of incoming fire. Most of the incoming fire in Shchastya seemed to be hitting army positions just outside town.

On Tuesday, artillery strikes started a fire at the electrical plant, the town’s largest employer; employees evacuated to a bomb shelter while it burned, the company said. The fire was eventually extinguished, but water pipes were damaged and residents now fetch water from wells in plastic pails.

This is a particularly glum time for the town, but the name, Happiness, has been a stretch for years now.

Two-story brick apartment buildings, dreary and forlorn, slope down a hill of sandy soil and pine trees to the Seversky Donets River, with the industrial blight of the coal-fired power plant on one side and separatist military positions on the other. The roads are potholed, and many of the apartment blocks are partly deserted, reflecting the exodus after the war began that slashed the population by about half, to 7,000 today.

The mayor’s status as a military appointee — Bunets holds the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Ukrainian army but now serves in a civilian capacity — captures the complexities in many of the front-line mining and farming towns of eastern Ukraine. It also helps explain why they are seen as ripe for a first step into Ukraine by the Russian military.

Pro-Russia sentiment runs deep, paradoxically, even as these sites have borne the brunt of the conflict over the past eight years and would suffer in any new military action. Pro-Russia views have declined over the years, due in part to the efforts of countless Ukrainian nongovernmental groups. But they have never vanished, and many people have family ties with Russia.

The former mayor of Shchastya, for example, switched sides and lives in the Luhansk People’s Republic, across the river. Bunets, in contrast, hails from the western Ukrainian town of Mukachevo, and his staff members make a point of speaking only in Ukrainian with the Russian-speaking local population, stirring some resentment.

They kept it up Wednesday, speaking in Ukrainian to perplexed residents who turned up at city hall with complaints of broken water mains and homes without electricity, as explosions boomed in the distance.

“The government language of Ukraine is Ukrainian, and government bodies have to speak Ukrainian,” Bunets said. In emergencies, he said, he will speak Russian. “Right now, people are complaining that there is no water. We can’t supply water for now. Repair work is ongoing when it is quiet.”

With most of the shelling directed at the plant and government military installations, no civilians had been injured as of midday Wednesday, Bunets added.

He denied there was any strong pro-Russian feeling in the town and said people certainly did not want to live in one of the ministatelets that are now recognized by Russia. “Honestly, people want to live in a normal, civilized country,” he said. “There are many positive benefits to civilization.”

Nevertheless, it is not hard to find people expressing sympathetic views about Russia. Igor Rashupkina, 50, a driver for the electrical company, said he hoped the city didn't fall but nonetheless harbored no ill will toward Russia. His son, he said, works in the oil industry in Siberia.

Because the Russian border is close, many families in Shchastya are divided between the two countries. “I was born here. This is my town. I won’t leave” no matter what happens, Rashupkina said.

Before it became a potential flashpoint for what could become the biggest land war in Europe since 1945, Shchastya was not always such a grim place, said Maryna Danyliuk, 65, a retired worker at the electrical power plant.

She moved here in 1987, from Chelyabinsk, a city in the Ural Mountains in Russia, to marry a Ukrainian man. “I loved this town back then,” she said. “It was so green and very comfortable; everything worked. Now, it is pale.”

Since the war began in 2014, though, the town’s proximity to the front line has taken its toll. “The city changed. It became evil, unfriendly,” Danyliuk said. “It never became the same city I knew before. It feels like a snake is just around the corner.”

On Monday, as the artillery barrages exploded on the town’s outskirts, she called her sister in Chelyabinsk. “ ‘Can you hear this?’” she said she shouted at her sibling. “ ‘Can you hear this? These are your people shelling me now, your Russians shelling me now!’”

Danyliuk, who a few years ago switched to speaking Ukrainian even though she grew up in Russia, said that if the town seemed about to fall, she would run.

“I will miss these sands and pine trees,” she said. “I will miss the pine forest behind my house where I walk my dog, my garden and, of course, my house.”

A drunk sat on a bench, swaying. A few older women, bundled against a biting wind, scurried from a grocery store, clutching plastic bags. Otherwise, the streets of Shchastya were deserted, while the thud of mortar and artillery fire reverberated through town.

A drunk sat on a bench, swaying. A few older women, bundled against a biting wind, scurried from a grocery store, clutching plastic bags. Otherwise, the streets of Shchastya were deserted, while the thud of mortar and artillery fire reverberated through town. Shchastya means “happiness” in Ukrainian, but in recent days the town has been one of the saddest places on earth, and may get a whole lot worse. With its largely Russian-speaking and Russia-backing population, its proximity to the front lines in eastern Ukraine and the presence of a strategic electrical generating plant, it is particularly vulnerable to attack by separatist forces lurking on the far bank of the river running through town. That has led military analysts and Ukrainian officials to suggest that Shchastya may well emerge as the stepping off point for a Russia's invasion of Ukraine, an offensive originating in the separatist areas that Moscow recognized as independent states on Monday. The mayor, Oleksandr Bunets, stood outside city hall on Wednesday, smoking a cigarette and surveying the desultory scene. The day before, Shchastya had taken the heaviest shelling in the region, and fighting continued Wednesday between the government and Russian-backed separatist fighters. “They will try to capture the town,” said Bunets, who was appointed to his position as military-civilian administrator because the townspeople had kept on electing Russian sympathizers as mayor. “They tried yesterday, and they tried the day before.” In a report released by the Ukrainian Ministry of Interior overnight on Wednesday, listing attacks on government-controlled territory in eastern Ukraine, Shchastya and its environs were by far the most-targeted sites. The report listed 917 instances of incoming munitions from tanks, artillery, mortars, rocket-propelled grenades and small arms. Stanytsia Luhanska, about a half-hour’s drive to the east, was the second-most active site, the report said, with 220 instances of incoming fire. Most of the incoming fire in Shchastya seemed to be hitting army positions just outside town. On Tuesday, artillery strikes started a fire at the electrical plant, the town’s largest employer; employees evacuated to a bomb shelter while it burned, the company said. The fire was eventually extinguished, but water pipes were damaged and residents now fetch water from wells in plastic pails. This is a particularly glum time for the town, but the name, Happiness, has been a stretch for years now. Two-story brick apartment buildings, dreary and forlorn, slope down a hill of sandy soil and pine trees to the Seversky Donets River, with the industrial blight of the coal-fired power plant on one side and separatist military positions on the other. The roads are potholed, and many of the apartment blocks are partly deserted, reflecting the exodus after the war began that slashed the population by about half, to 7,000 today. The mayor’s status as a military appointee — Bunets holds the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Ukrainian army but now serves in a civilian capacity — captures the complexities in many of the front-line mining and farming towns of eastern Ukraine. It also helps explain why they are seen as ripe for a first step into Ukraine by the Russian military. Pro-Russia sentiment runs deep, paradoxically, even as these sites have borne the brunt of the conflict over the past eight years and would suffer in any new military action. Pro-Russia views have declined over the years, due in part to the efforts of countless Ukrainian nongovernmental groups. But they have never vanished, and many people have family ties with Russia. The former mayor of Shchastya, for example, switched sides and lives in the Luhansk People’s Republic, across the river. Bunets, in contrast, hails from the western Ukrainian town of Mukachevo, and his staff members make a point of speaking only in Ukrainian with the Russian-speaking local population, stirring some resentment. They kept it up Wednesday, speaking in Ukrainian to perplexed residents who turned up at city hall with complaints of broken water mains and homes without electricity, as explosions boomed in the distance. “The government language of Ukraine is Ukrainian, and government bodies have to speak Ukrainian,” Bunets said. In emergencies, he said, he will speak Russian. “Right now, people are complaining that there is no water. We can’t supply water for now. Repair work is ongoing when it is quiet.” With most of the shelling directed at the plant and government military installations, no civilians had been injured as of midday Wednesday, Bunets added. He denied there was any strong pro-Russian feeling in the town and said people certainly did not want to live in one of the ministatelets that are now recognized by Russia. “Honestly, people want to live in a normal, civilized country,” he said. “There are many positive benefits to civilization.” Nevertheless, it is not hard to find people expressing sympathetic views about Russia. Igor Rashupkina, 50, a driver for the electrical company, said he hoped the city didn't fall but nonetheless harbored no ill will toward Russia. His son, he said, works in the oil industry in Siberia. Because the Russian border is close, many families in Shchastya are divided between the two countries. “I was born here. This is my town. I won’t leave” no matter what happens, Rashupkina said. Before it became a potential flashpoint for what could become the biggest land war in Europe since 1945, Shchastya was not always such a grim place, said Maryna Danyliuk, 65, a retired worker at the electrical power plant. She moved here in 1987, from Chelyabinsk, a city in the Ural Mountains in Russia, to marry a Ukrainian man. “I loved this town back then,” she said. “It was so green and very comfortable; everything worked. Now, it is pale.” Since the war began in 2014, though, the town’s proximity to the front line has taken its toll. “The city changed. It became evil, unfriendly,” Danyliuk said. “It never became the same city I knew before. It feels like a snake is just around the corner.” On Monday, as the artillery barrages exploded on the town’s outskirts, she called her sister in Chelyabinsk. “ ‘Can you hear this?’” she said she shouted at her sibling. “ ‘Can you hear this? These are your people shelling me now, your Russians shelling me now!’” Danyliuk, who a few years ago switched to speaking Ukrainian even though she grew up in Russia, said that if the town seemed about to fall, she would run. “I will miss these sands and pine trees,” she said. “I will miss the pine forest behind my house where I walk my dog, my garden and, of course, my house.”

The potentially grim fate of a Ukrainian town called 'happiness'

In the wake of UK government warning of "unprecedented" new sanctions on Russia, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is preparing to make a televised statement on Ukraine Crisis, Downing Street said on Thursday.

Johnson summoned his security chiefs for an early morning meeting as Russia invaded Ukraine. The invasion was termed "unprovoked" and "horrific. Johnson will address the parliament in the afternoon.

"This is a catastrophe for our continent," the UK leader said on Twitter, confirming he would speak to fellow G7 leaders at an unspecified time as the West collectively readies tougher sanctions.

"I am calling for an urgent meeting of all NATO leaders as soon as possible," he added, hours after saying Russian President Vladimir Putin had "chosen a path of bloodshed and destruction by launching this unprovoked attack".

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This is a catastrophe for our continent. 
 
I will make an address to the nation this morning on the Russian invasion of Ukraine. 
 
I will also speak to fellow G7 leaders and I am calling for an urgent meeting of all NATO leaders as soon as possible.
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1496784638584360961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Johnson spoke to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky overnight and vowed "the West would not stand by as President Putin waged his campaign against the Ukrainian people", Downing Street said.

He chaired the emergency meeting -- dubbed COBR -- to coordinate Britain's response at 7:30 am (0730 GMT). As well as addressing the nation late morning, he will speak in parliament at 5:00 pm (1700 GMT).

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50-russian-occupiers-killed-we-have-losses-says-ukraine-as-casualties-rise-455989">'50 Russian occupiers killed': We have losses, says Ukraine as casualties rise</a>

Putin early Thursday launched an air and ground assault on Ukraine after a surprise televised address.

'Stand with Ukraine'

UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss, who spoke to her US counterpart Antony Blinken Wednesday evening ahead of the Russian leader's announcement, joined Johnson in condemning the attack "on the people of Ukraine".

"We stand with Ukraine and we will work with our international partners to respond to this terrible act of aggression," she said following the start of Russia's offensive.

Her foreign ministry colleague, lawmaker James Cleverly, told the BBC that the government feared it is "the start of a quite extensive military operation".

(With inputs from agencies)

In the wake of UK government warning of "unprecedented" new sanctions on Russia, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is preparing to make a televised statement on Ukraine Crisis, Downing Street said on Thursday.

In the wake of UK government warning of "unprecedented" new sanctions on Russia, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is preparing to make a televised statement on Ukraine Crisis, Downing Street said on Thursday. Johnson summoned his security chiefs for an early morning meeting as Russia invaded Ukraine. The invasion was termed "unprovoked" and "horrific. Johnson will address the parliament in the afternoon. "This is a catastrophe for our continent," the UK leader said on Twitter, confirming he would speak to fellow G7 leaders at an unspecified time as the West collectively readies tougher sanctions. "I am calling for an urgent meeting of all NATO leaders as soon as possible," he added, hours after saying Russian President Vladimir Putin had "chosen a path of bloodshed and destruction by launching this unprovoked attack". This is a catastrophe for our continent. I will make an address to the nation this morning on the Russian invasion of Ukraine. I will also speak to fellow G7 leaders and I am calling for an urgent meeting of all NATO leaders as soon as possible. — Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) February 24, 2022 × Johnson spoke to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky overnight and vowed "the West would not stand by as President Putin waged his campaign against the Ukrainian people", Downing Street said. He chaired the emergency meeting -- dubbed COBR -- to coordinate Britain's response at 7:30 am (0730 GMT). As well as addressing the nation late morning, he will speak in parliament at 5:00 pm (1700 GMT). Also Read | '50 Russian occupiers killed': We have losses, says Ukraine as casualties rise Putin early Thursday launched an air and ground assault on Ukraine after a surprise televised address. 'Stand with Ukraine' UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss, who spoke to her US counterpart Antony Blinken Wednesday evening ahead of the Russian leader's announcement, joined Johnson in condemning the attack "on the people of Ukraine". "We stand with Ukraine and we will work with our international partners to respond to this terrible act of aggression," she said following the start of Russia's offensive. Her foreign ministry colleague, lawmaker James Cleverly, told the BBC that the government feared it is "the start of a quite extensive military operation". (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine crisis: UK PM Boris Johnson to make televised address, to brief parliament

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. Russian forces fired missiles at several targets as loud explosions were reported in Ukraine, officials and media said on Thursday (February 24). Reports also mentioned that Russia has landed troops on its coast after President Vladimir Putin authorised what he called a special military operation in the east. Amid escalating tensions, high-level meetings are underway in India's Ministry of External Affairs to discuss the contingency plans that are being put into operation to activate alternate routes to bring back stranded citizens from Ukraine, sources claimed. Ukrainian authorities closed the airspace to civilian flights citing a high risk to safety and given airspace closure, alternate evacuation routes are being activated. Additional Russian speaking officials have been sent to our Embassy in Ukraine and are being deployed in countries neighbouring Ukraine. Sources further informed that the Indian Embassy in Ukraine is functional and its advisories should be followed carefully. Watch WION's report: High-level discussions are underway at MEA. How is India planning its response considering there are several students in Ukraine?@PriyankaSh25 talks to @sidhant for details Watch more: https://t.co/AXC5qRcEPB pic.twitter.com/m7hWNj6dsg — WION (@WIONews) February 24, 2022 × Meanwhile, a special Air India flight returning from mid-air as Ukraine airspace is closed due to notice to airmen (NOTAM) as war has been started between Russia and Ukraine. India-based news agency ANI reported citing sources that an empty flight of Air India AI-1947 is returning from over Iran air space as Ukraine imposed restrictions on civilian aircraft. "Air India flight AI1947 is coming back to Delhi due to NOTAM at, Kyiv, Ukraine," Air India informed. Previously, India's permanent representative to the United Nations, TS Tirumurti at the UNSC meeting on Ukraine said, "We call for an immediate de-escalation." He added that the situation is in danger of "spiralling into a major crisis" and if not handled carefully, it may undermine security, adding the security of all parties should be taken into account. "Over 20,000 Indian students are in Ukraine, we are facilitating the return of all Indian nationals including students as we may be required," Tirumurti said. WATCH: India closely monitoring the situation in Ukraine amid Russian invasion ×

Russia-Ukraine conflict: How is India responding, as Indian students are stuck?

Ukraine-Russia conflict: First pictures from ground zero

Here is a quick summary of the responses of world leaders so far on Russia's move in Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin sends troops in eastern Ukraine, this is how the world reacted

The European Union hs decided to hold an emergency summit in Brussels late on Thursday to discuss Russia's "aggressive actions" against Ukraine. The announcement of the emergency summit was made in a letter written by European Council President Charles Michel to leaders of the European Union.

"It is important that we continue to be united and determined and jointly define our collective approach and actions," he said in the letter published on Wednesday.

"Therefore, I would like to invite you for a special European Council (summit) on Thursday 24 February, which will take place in person in Brussels and start at 20:00 (1900 GMT)."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-crisis-civilians-given-permission-to-carry-firearms-in-ukraine-455690">Russia-Ukraine crisis: Civilians given permission to carry firearms in Ukraine</a>

The summit follows the EU's adoption of sanctions against Russia for declaring pro-Moscow separatist regions of Ukraine to be independent and mandating military forces to go into them.

The European Union says it is keeping more, tougher sanctions up its sleeve should the Russian forces invade &nbsp;further, beyond the territory that the separatists hold.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has also questioned the sovereignty of the whole of Ukraine, a non-EU nation that borders both the EU and Russia.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/latest-satellite-pictures-show-russian-troop-deployment-near-ukraine-455540">Latest satellite pictures show Russian troop deployment near Ukraine</a>

"The use of force and coercion to change borders has no place in the 21st century," Michel wrote in his summit invitation.

"The aggressive actions by the Russian Federation violate international law and the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine. They also undermine the European security order," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Union hs decided to hold an emergency summit in Brussels late on Thursday to discuss Russia's "aggressive actions" against Ukraine. The announcement of the emergency summit was made in a letter written by European Council President Charles Michel to leaders of the European Union.

The European Union hs decided to hold an emergency summit in Brussels late on Thursday to discuss Russia's "aggressive actions" against Ukraine. The announcement of the emergency summit was made in a letter written by European Council President Charles Michel to leaders of the European Union. "It is important that we continue to be united and determined and jointly define our collective approach and actions," he said in the letter published on Wednesday. "Therefore, I would like to invite you for a special European Council (summit) on Thursday 24 February, which will take place in person in Brussels and start at 20:00 (1900 GMT)." Also Read | Russia-Ukraine crisis: Civilians given permission to carry firearms in Ukraine The summit follows the EU's adoption of sanctions against Russia for declaring pro-Moscow separatist regions of Ukraine to be independent and mandating military forces to go into them. The European Union says it is keeping more, tougher sanctions up its sleeve should the Russian forces invade further, beyond the territory that the separatists hold. Russian President Vladimir Putin has also questioned the sovereignty of the whole of Ukraine, a non-EU nation that borders both the EU and Russia. Also Read | Latest satellite pictures show Russian troop deployment near Ukraine "The use of force and coercion to change borders has no place in the 21st century," Michel wrote in his summit invitation. "The aggressive actions by the Russian Federation violate international law and the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine. They also undermine the European security order," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine crisis: EU calls emergency summit

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday spoke with Russian President Vladmir Putin on phone and told him that Turkey wouldn't recognise move against Ukraine's sovereignty. He warned Putin against military conflict

Erdogan told Putin that Turkey would "not recognise any step against Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," his office said, adding that this was Ankara's "principled approach".

President Vladimir Putin has defied an avalanche of international sanctions and put his forces on stand-by to occupy and defend two rebel-held areas of eastern Ukraine.&nbsp;

Russia recognised the regions as independent this week, a serious escalation of tensions in the ongoing crisis.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-crisis-civilians-given-permission-to-carry-firearms-in-ukraine-455690">Russia-Ukraine crisis: Civilians given permission to carry firearms in Ukraine</a>

NATO member Turkey, which has friendly ties to Russia and Ukraine, has sought to position itself as a mediator.&nbsp;

During the phone call, Erdogan told Putin, "a military conflict would not bring benefit to anyone". Erdogan also said that Turkey prioritised diplomacy and dialogue.

"Turkey is ready to do its part to reduce tensions and maintain peace," he told Putin.&nbsp;

The Kremlin said Putin told Erdogan about the "necessity" of his decision to recognise east Ukraine's rebel Donetsk and Lugansk republics -- a move that opens the door to the presence of the Russian army there.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/latest-satellite-pictures-show-russian-troop-deployment-near-ukraine-455540">Latest satellite pictures show Russian troop deployment near Ukraine</a>

Putin said the decision was taken "in the conditions of the aggression of Ukrainian authorities in Donbas and their categorical refusal" to abide to a peace agreement, the Kremlin said.&nbsp;

Erdogan cut short a trip to Africa amid the flurry of diplomacy over the crisis and returned Turkey late on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters on the plane home, Erdogan said Turkey did not want to choose between Russia and Ukraine, in comments published in Turkish media on Wednesday.&nbsp;

"It is not possible for us to give up on both," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday spoke with Russian President Vladmir Putin on phone and told him that Turkey wouldn't recognise move against Ukraine's sovereignty.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday spoke with Russian President Vladmir Putin on phone and told him that Turkey wouldn't recognise move against Ukraine's sovereignty. He warned Putin against military conflict Erdogan told Putin that Turkey would "not recognise any step against Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," his office said, adding that this was Ankara's "principled approach". President Vladimir Putin has defied an avalanche of international sanctions and put his forces on stand-by to occupy and defend two rebel-held areas of eastern Ukraine. Russia recognised the regions as independent this week, a serious escalation of tensions in the ongoing crisis. Also Read | Russia-Ukraine crisis: Civilians given permission to carry firearms in Ukraine NATO member Turkey, which has friendly ties to Russia and Ukraine, has sought to position itself as a mediator. During the phone call, Erdogan told Putin, "a military conflict would not bring benefit to anyone". Erdogan also said that Turkey prioritised diplomacy and dialogue. "Turkey is ready to do its part to reduce tensions and maintain peace," he told Putin. The Kremlin said Putin told Erdogan about the "necessity" of his decision to recognise east Ukraine's rebel Donetsk and Lugansk republics -- a move that opens the door to the presence of the Russian army there. Also Read | Latest satellite pictures show Russian troop deployment near Ukraine Putin said the decision was taken "in the conditions of the aggression of Ukrainian authorities in Donbas and their categorical refusal" to abide to a peace agreement, the Kremlin said. Erdogan cut short a trip to Africa amid the flurry of diplomacy over the crisis and returned Turkey late on Tuesday. Speaking to reporters on the plane home, Erdogan said Turkey did not want to choose between Russia and Ukraine, in comments published in Turkish media on Wednesday. "It is not possible for us to give up on both," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Moves against Ukraine's sovereignty unacceptable, Erdogan tells Putin

Russia's actions in Ukraine have divided the world into 3 clear parts. One side supports Ukraine & slams Russia. The second supports Moscow & slams the west. The third side does not want to pick a side. Palki Sharma decodes the global response.

Gravitas: How the world reacted to Putin's move in Ukraine

If Russia further invades Ukraine, the Biden administration could deprive it of a vast swath of low- and high-tech US&nbsp;and foreign-made goods, from commercial electronics and computers to semiconductors and aircraft parts, people familiar with the matter told Reuters.

President Joe Biden would achieve that by expanding the list of goods that require US&nbsp;licenses before suppliers can ship them to Russia, and his administration would then deny those licenses, the people said.

The measures, whose details have not previously been reported, are part of a suite of export control penalties that the United States has prepared to damage Russia's economy, targeting everything from lasers to telecoms equipment and maritime items.

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They were not announced on Tuesday as part of a round of sanctions unveiled by Biden to punish Russian President Vladimir Putin for recognizing two breakaway regions of Ukraine as independent and deploying troops into the regions to "keep the peace."

But a senior administration official said, “if Putin escalates further, we will escalate further, using both financial sanctions and export controls, which we’ve yet to unveil.”

The official added: "Export controls are really potent because we’re talking about critical technology inputs that Russia needs to diversify its economy.”

The official added that the United States is "fully prepared with a very large number of countries across the world to implement those export control measures if the invasion proceeds."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/latest-satellite-pictures-show-russian-troop-deployment-near-ukraine-455540">Latest satellite pictures show Russian troop deployment near Ukraine</a>

The White House, and the Commerce Department, which oversees U.S. export controls, did not respond to requests for comment on details of the potential restrictions.

The package, which was still being fine-tuned over the weekend and could change, could come even as some White House officials have pledged to spare the Russian consumer from the brunt of the penalties.

The goal of the export control measures "is really to degrade Russia's ability to have industrial production in a couple of key sectors," Peter Harrell, who sits on the White House's National Security Council, said in a speech last month. He said the administration was focused on industrial production and high-tech sectors "rather than how do we sort of target the Russian people writ-large."

The administration has been vowing to hit Moscow with a potent cocktail of banking sanctions and export controls for weeks, in response to a massing of hundreds of thousands of Russian troops along Ukraine's borders.

Reuters reported on Saturday that the Biden administration had also prepared a package of sanctions against Russia that includes barring US&nbsp;financial institutions from processing transactions for major Russian banks.

By far the most sweeping measure contained in the export controls package would take a page from restrictions placed on Chinese telecom giant Huawei Technologies Co Ltd under former President Donald Trump. It would dramatically expand the scope of the so-called Foreign Direct Product Rule (FDPR), requiring firms that use US&nbsp;tools to make technology overseas to obtain a US&nbsp;license before shipping them to Russia.

"It's extraordinarily novel and has the potential for being far more significant than controls just on exports of these items from the United States," said Washington lawyer Kevin Wolf, a former Commerce Department official.

US&nbsp;suppliers would also have to obtain licenses for certain Russia-bound items that do not currently require them, such as civil aircraft parts. Whether Europe would follow suit with similar measures remains to be seen.

Japan said on Tuesday it stood ready to join the United States and other G7 industrialised nations in slapping sanctions on Russia.

On Tuesday, Biden said the United States would impose sanctions against two large Russian financial institutions and Russian sovereign debt and against some Russian elites and their family members.

On Monday, as an initial response to Putin's moves into eastern Ukraine, Biden vowed to end investment in and trade with the regions while British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced initial sanctions targeting Russian banks and billionaires.

Under changes proposed in the US&nbsp;export control package, the license applications, in turn, would face a strict "policy of denial" standard of review, meaning only in rare cases would the administration approve them.

In addition, Russian companies listed as so-called military end users for their alleged ties to the Russian military, including a handful of aircraft producers, would be added to a trade blacklist known as the entity list. That would broaden the scope of items the companies would need licenses to obtain.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-crisis-civilians-given-permission-to-carry-firearms-in-ukraine-455690">Russia-Ukraine crisis: Civilians given permission to carry firearms in Ukraine</a>

Finally, Washington would expand the scope of products that would need approval from the United States when sent to Russian military end users through an even broader application of the FDPR rule, subjecting to US&nbsp;licenses requirements all items made abroad with U.S. tools and destined for companies that support the military.

US&nbsp;exports to Russia were under $5 billion in 2020, according to the Commerce Department, and already face many curbs. But the use of the FDPR rule dramatically expands the impact of the restrictions included in the package.

If Russia further invades Ukraine, the Biden administration could deprive it of a vast swath of low- and high-tech US and foreign-made goods, from commercial electronics and computers to semiconductors and aircraft parts, people familiar with the matter told Reuters.

If Russia further invades Ukraine, the Biden administration could deprive it of a vast swath of low- and high-tech US and foreign-made goods, from commercial electronics and computers to semiconductors and aircraft parts, people familiar with the matter told Reuters. President Joe Biden would achieve that by expanding the list of goods that require US licenses before suppliers can ship them to Russia, and his administration would then deny those licenses, the people said. The measures, whose details have not previously been reported, are part of a suite of export control penalties that the United States has prepared to damage Russia's economy, targeting everything from lasers to telecoms equipment and maritime items. × They were not announced on Tuesday as part of a round of sanctions unveiled by Biden to punish Russian President Vladimir Putin for recognizing two breakaway regions of Ukraine as independent and deploying troops into the regions to "keep the peace." But a senior administration official said, “if Putin escalates further, we will escalate further, using both financial sanctions and export controls, which we’ve yet to unveil.” The official added: "Export controls are really potent because we’re talking about critical technology inputs that Russia needs to diversify its economy.” The official added that the United States is "fully prepared with a very large number of countries across the world to implement those export control measures if the invasion proceeds." Also Read | Latest satellite pictures show Russian troop deployment near Ukraine The White House, and the Commerce Department, which oversees U.S. export controls, did not respond to requests for comment on details of the potential restrictions. The package, which was still being fine-tuned over the weekend and could change, could come even as some White House officials have pledged to spare the Russian consumer from the brunt of the penalties. The goal of the export control measures "is really to degrade Russia's ability to have industrial production in a couple of key sectors," Peter Harrell, who sits on the White House's National Security Council, said in a speech last month. He said the administration was focused on industrial production and high-tech sectors "rather than how do we sort of target the Russian people writ-large." The administration has been vowing to hit Moscow with a potent cocktail of banking sanctions and export controls for weeks, in response to a massing of hundreds of thousands of Russian troops along Ukraine's borders. Reuters reported on Saturday that the Biden administration had also prepared a package of sanctions against Russia that includes barring US financial institutions from processing transactions for major Russian banks. By far the most sweeping measure contained in the export controls package would take a page from restrictions placed on Chinese telecom giant Huawei Technologies Co Ltd under former President Donald Trump. It would dramatically expand the scope of the so-called Foreign Direct Product Rule (FDPR), requiring firms that use US tools to make technology overseas to obtain a US license before shipping them to Russia. "It's extraordinarily novel and has the potential for being far more significant than controls just on exports of these items from the United States," said Washington lawyer Kevin Wolf, a former Commerce Department official. US suppliers would also have to obtain licenses for certain Russia-bound items that do not currently require them, such as civil aircraft parts. Whether Europe would follow suit with similar measures remains to be seen. Japan said on Tuesday it stood ready to join the United States and other G7 industrialised nations in slapping sanctions on Russia. On Tuesday, Biden said the United States would impose sanctions against two large Russian financial institutions and Russian sovereign debt and against some Russian elites and their family members. On Monday, as an initial response to Putin's moves into eastern Ukraine, Biden vowed to end investment in and trade with the regions while British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced initial sanctions targeting Russian banks and billionaires. Under changes proposed in the US export control package, the license applications, in turn, would face a strict "policy of denial" standard of review, meaning only in rare cases would the administration approve them. In addition, Russian companies listed as so-called military end users for their alleged ties to the Russian military, including a handful of aircraft producers, would be added to a trade blacklist known as the entity list. That would broaden the scope of items the companies would need licenses to obtain. Also Read | Russia-Ukraine crisis: Civilians given permission to carry firearms in Ukraine Finally, Washington would expand the scope of products that would need approval from the United States when sent to Russian military end users through an even broader application of the FDPR rule, subjecting to US licenses requirements all items made abroad with U.S. tools and destined for companies that support the military. US exports to Russia were under $5 billion in 2020, according to the Commerce Department, and already face many curbs. But the use of the FDPR rule dramatically expands the impact of the restrictions included in the package.

Punishing Putin: How Biden could cut Russia off from world tech

A video of journalist Philip Crowther reporting about the Ukraine crisis flawlessly in six languages is going viral.

“There has been a war with Russian forces in east Donbas region for eight years now. But despite that the capital city of Kyiv is relatively calm,” Crowther is heard reporting in English.

Other than this, the international affiliate correspondent for the Associated Press can be heard speaking Luxembourgish, Spanish, Portuguese, French, and German.

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Six-language coverage from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kyiv?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kyiv</a> with <a href="https://twitter.com/AP_GMS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AP_GMS</a>. In this order: English, Luxembourgish, Spanish, Portuguese, French, and German. <a href="https://t.co/kyEg0aCCoT">pic.twitter.com/kyEg0aCCoT</a>
— Philip Crowther (@PhilipinDC) <a href="https://twitter.com/PhilipinDC/status/1495730338315841539?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The video has amassed more than 7.1 million views and has been shared over 43,000 times on Twitter.

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Leave some languages for the rest of us.
— Molly Quell (@MollyQuell) <a href="https://twitter.com/MollyQuell/status/1496030156741357574?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Really impressive, Philip. I wonder, have you come across your comedian alter-ego, <a href="https://twitter.com/YGVassilakis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YGVassilakis</a>? One of his specialities is dubbing lines from famous shows in numerous languages. Together, you must have all of Europe covered... 😂👏<a href="https://t.co/iQW8s3WKYW">https://t.co/iQW8s3WKYW</a>
— Felix Lowe (@saddleblaze) <a href="https://twitter.com/saddleblaze/status/1495731643214184449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The United States has accused Putin of massing more than 150,000 troops near Ukraine's borders in preparation for what it fears could be a full-scale invasion.&nbsp;

Russia has repeatedly denied plans for such an attack but says it has a duty to protect people living in Donetsk and Lugansk in eastern Ukraine. It has backed breakaway regions as independent entities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-calls-up-military-reservists-urges-citizens-to-leave-russia-immediately-455628" hreflang="en">Ukraine calls up military reservists, urges citizens to leave Russia 'immediately'</a>

"Our country is always open to a direct and honest dialogue and ready to search for diplomatic solutions to the most complicated issues," said President Vladimir Putin.

"But I want to repeat that Russia's interests and the security of our people are unconditional. So, we will continue to strengthen and modernise our army and navy."

Speaking at the White House, US President Joe said the Kremlin had flagrantly violated international law in what he called the “beginning of a Russian invasion of Ukraine.” He warned of more sanctions if Putin went further.

“We are united in our support of Ukraine,” Biden said. “We are united in our opposition to Russian aggression.” When it comes to Russian claims of a justification or pretext for an invasion, Biden said, “None of us should be fooled. None of us will be fooled. There is no justification.”

(With inputs from agencies)

A video of journalist Philip Crowther reporting about the Ukraine crisis flawlessly in six languages is going viral. “There has been a war with Russian forces in east Donbas region for eight years now.

A video of journalist Philip Crowther reporting about the Ukraine crisis flawlessly in six languages is going viral. “There has been a war with Russian forces in east Donbas region for eight years now. But despite that the capital city of Kyiv is relatively calm,” Crowther is heard reporting in English. Other than this, the international affiliate correspondent for the Associated Press can be heard speaking Luxembourgish, Spanish, Portuguese, French, and German. Six-language coverage from #Kyiv with @AP_GMS. In this order: English, Luxembourgish, Spanish, Portuguese, French, and German. pic.twitter.com/kyEg0aCCoT — Philip Crowther (@PhilipinDC) February 21, 2022 × The video has amassed more than 7.1 million views and has been shared over 43,000 times on Twitter. Leave some languages for the rest of us. — Molly Quell (@MollyQuell) February 22, 2022 × Really impressive, Philip. I wonder, have you come across your comedian alter-ego, @YGVassilakis? One of his specialities is dubbing lines from famous shows in numerous languages. Together, you must have all of Europe covered... 😂👏https://t.co/iQW8s3WKYW — Felix Lowe (@saddleblaze) February 21, 2022 × The United States has accused Putin of massing more than 150,000 troops near Ukraine's borders in preparation for what it fears could be a full-scale invasion. Russia has repeatedly denied plans for such an attack but says it has a duty to protect people living in Donetsk and Lugansk in eastern Ukraine. It has backed breakaway regions as independent entities. Also read | Ukraine calls up military reservists, urges citizens to leave Russia 'immediately' "Our country is always open to a direct and honest dialogue and ready to search for diplomatic solutions to the most complicated issues," said President Vladimir Putin. "But I want to repeat that Russia's interests and the security of our people are unconditional. So, we will continue to strengthen and modernise our army and navy." Speaking at the White House, US President Joe said the Kremlin had flagrantly violated international law in what he called the “beginning of a Russian invasion of Ukraine.” He warned of more sanctions if Putin went further. “We are united in our support of Ukraine,” Biden said. “We are united in our opposition to Russian aggression.” When it comes to Russian claims of a justification or pretext for an invasion, Biden said, “None of us should be fooled. None of us will be fooled. There is no justification.” (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Video of journalist reporting about Ukraine crisis in six languages is going viral

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (February 21) ordered the deployment of troops to two breakaway regions in eastern Ukraine. In a televised address, Putin ordered to despatch Russian peacekeepers to Ukraine's two breakaway regions - the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic and the Lugansk People's Republic. The Russia-Ukraine crisis impacted the prices of some of the commodities worldwide. The prices are expected to rise further. Read the detailed report here: https://www.wionews.com/world/these-commodities-could-become-super-expensive-amid-escalating-russia-ukraine-crisis-455247

Impact of Russia-Ukraine crisis on prices of commodities

As the West’s movers and shakers shuttle between European capitals and Moscow, Kyiv, and Washington to prevent war after Russia’s recognition of and troop deployment in east Ukraine’s breakaway territories of Donetsk and Luhansk,&nbsp;Europe is impaled on the horns of a dilemma.&nbsp;

Of necessity, the European Union leadership has to condemn Russia’s military mission, speak up for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and stand with US President Joe Biden in spite of little clarity on the course ahead. Sanctions against the separatist territories and Russia, and Germany’s decision to hold off on the certification of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline does not in any way address the fallout of the US-Russia conflict on Europe. The soaring price of petroleum amidst Europe’s crying need for oil, which can be met only at a higher cost in the absence of supplies from Russia, is only one of many challenges that Europe would be facing. Doubtless, the much higher price Europe pays for oil would add to its financial burden at a time when it was recovering from the economic woes caused by the pandemic.&nbsp;

However, there may be hope of easing the economic burden with the de-escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which process may well depend, among a host of imponderables, on a summit meeting between Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin. &nbsp;

A greater long-term challenge Europe as a union is facing in this fraught situation is a leadership vacuum. There is no Angela Merkel, who took Germany to its unipolar moment in world affairs. Nor is there anyone else anywhere near the stature she attained during her long years of steering Germany and Europe firmly on an independent trajectory based on a vision informed by the Continent’s interests as well as values.&nbsp;

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz had barely time to settle in when the US-Russia crisis erupted and, as Europe’s economic powerhouse and leading nation, it is Merkel’s Germany that had set the terms of its engagement with both the US and Russia. With Chancellor Scholz yet to get into stride, French President Emmanuel Macron lost no time, early on in the crisis, in setting forth on a peace-making mission to meet President Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.&nbsp;

Macron appears to have emerged as Europe’s spearhead, ready to take all the necessary measures to prevent a war in Ukraine. The French President’s office, after his initial meetings with Putin and Zelenskyy, underscored the “very high” likelihood of a major escalation in Ukraine and said that Macron “will take all the risks to preserve stability and peace in Europe.” &nbsp;

There is much speculation over why Macron plunged in to take on this role of a peace-maker striving for a diplomatic solution to the conflict. One interpretation is that he is seeking to boost his image in view of the upcoming presidential election in France although he has yet to throw his hat in the ring. Even if the image build-up, including as Europe’s new leader after Merkel's exit, be his intent, there is still more to Macron’s involvement than meets the eye.&nbsp;Post-Merkel Europe is yet to acquire a leader of comparable heft and influence as the voice of the liberal democratic West. She remained a firm ally of the US including in NATO but was unafraid to differ and dared to pursue a defence, economic affairs and foreign policies that could not be dictated by the US, EU or the NATO brass. This was particularly evident in her dealings with Russia and China, much to the discomfiture of Washington.&nbsp;

Her comfort level with Putin was, and perhaps still is, unrivalled in the West, for a number of reasons. Apart from personal chemistry, both Putin and Merkel were at home speaking in both Russian and German. Merkel had studied in Russia and Putin had served as a KGB officer in Berlin. He knew Germany and Europe as only an exceptional agent could have known, and this was matched by Merkel's deep grasp of Russian affairs. Both have helmed their respective governments for long years during which time heads of many governments have changed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It's not easy for Scholz to fit into her shoes as he is yet untested in international waters. To carry on Merkel's legacy is a tall order especially if that calls for standing up to Washington—it will take Scholz a while, if that, to transition to a stage and stature where he can do that. Equally, he needs that stature for dealing with Putin from a position of strength. So far he has stood his ground against both Biden and Putin, but Scholz still needs to earn his spurs to wield the kind of clout that Merkel did in these two capitals. &nbsp;

Until then, Putin cannot rely on Scholz to do what Merkel did, which leaves Putin without a familiar and seasoned leader to deal with in Europe. Macron, perhaps, sized up this scenario and seized the moment to play mediator in the US-Russia conflict over Ukraine. In dealing with Putin, Macron commands a level of trust that, perhaps, few European leaders enjoy at present. Besides, France has a score to settle with the US (and the UK and Australia) for being done out of the settled submarine deal—which he may see as a pact between the Five Eyes (English-speaking nations) against France. And, France, as one of the P-5, can tilt the balance when Russia with China is ranged against the US with a lame-duck UK in tow. &nbsp;

In the absence of Merkel, Macron as a experienced European leader who has been dealing with Russia, is all too aware of Moscow's geopolitical and security concerns in the Middle East, where France too has some chestnuts in the fire. Moreover, Putin is also said to know French although how much of it he uses in interactions with Macron is not known.&nbsp;

So, this is that breach which Macron has stepped into, perhaps with an eye on a new leadership profile in the EU, another term as president and scoring a point against the Anglo-American axis.&nbsp;

The author is Editorial Consultant,&nbsp;WION TV.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

As the West’s movers and shakers shuttle between European capitals and Moscow, Kyiv, and Washington to prevent war after Russia’s recognition of and troop deployment in east Ukraine’s breakaway territories of Donetsk and Luhansk, Europe is impaled on the horns of a dilemma.

As the West’s movers and shakers shuttle between European capitals and Moscow, Kyiv, and Washington to prevent war after Russia’s recognition of and troop deployment in east Ukraine’s breakaway territories of Donetsk and Luhansk, Europe is impaled on the horns of a dilemma. Of necessity, the European Union leadership has to condemn Russia’s military mission, speak up for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and stand with US President Joe Biden in spite of little clarity on the course ahead. Sanctions against the separatist territories and Russia, and Germany’s decision to hold off on the certification of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline does not in any way address the fallout of the US-Russia conflict on Europe. The soaring price of petroleum amidst Europe’s crying need for oil, which can be met only at a higher cost in the absence of supplies from Russia, is only one of many challenges that Europe would be facing. Doubtless, the much higher price Europe pays for oil would add to its financial burden at a time when it was recovering from the economic woes caused by the pandemic. However, there may be hope of easing the economic burden with the de-escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which process may well depend, among a host of imponderables, on a summit meeting between Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin. A greater long-term challenge Europe as a union is facing in this fraught situation is a leadership vacuum. There is no Angela Merkel, who took Germany to its unipolar moment in world affairs. Nor is there anyone else anywhere near the stature she attained during her long years of steering Germany and Europe firmly on an independent trajectory based on a vision informed by the Continent’s interests as well as values. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz had barely time to settle in when the US-Russia crisis erupted and, as Europe’s economic powerhouse and leading nation, it is Merkel’s Germany that had set the terms of its engagement with both the US and Russia. With Chancellor Scholz yet to get into stride, French President Emmanuel Macron lost no time, early on in the crisis, in setting forth on a peace-making mission to meet President Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Macron appears to have emerged as Europe’s spearhead, ready to take all the necessary measures to prevent a war in Ukraine. The French President’s office, after his initial meetings with Putin and Zelenskyy, underscored the “very high” likelihood of a major escalation in Ukraine and said that Macron “will take all the risks to preserve stability and peace in Europe.” There is much speculation over why Macron plunged in to take on this role of a peace-maker striving for a diplomatic solution to the conflict. One interpretation is that he is seeking to boost his image in view of the upcoming presidential election in France although he has yet to throw his hat in the ring. Even if the image build-up, including as Europe’s new leader after Merkel's exit, be his intent, there is still more to Macron’s involvement than meets the eye. Post-Merkel Europe is yet to acquire a leader of comparable heft and influence as the voice of the liberal democratic West. She remained a firm ally of the US including in NATO but was unafraid to differ and dared to pursue a defence, economic affairs and foreign policies that could not be dictated by the US, EU or the NATO brass. This was particularly evident in her dealings with Russia and China, much to the discomfiture of Washington. Her comfort level with Putin was, and perhaps still is, unrivalled in the West, for a number of reasons. Apart from personal chemistry, both Putin and Merkel were at home speaking in both Russian and German. Merkel had studied in Russia and Putin had served as a KGB officer in Berlin. He knew Germany and Europe as only an exceptional agent could have known, and this was matched by Merkel's deep grasp of Russian affairs. Both have helmed their respective governments for long years during which time heads of many governments have changed. It's not easy for Scholz to fit into her shoes as he is yet untested in international waters. To carry on Merkel's legacy is a tall order especially if that calls for standing up to Washington—it will take Scholz a while, if that, to transition to a stage and stature where he can do that. Equally, he needs that stature for dealing with Putin from a position of strength. So far he has stood his ground against both Biden and Putin, but Scholz still needs to earn his spurs to wield the kind of clout that Merkel did in these two capitals. Until then, Putin cannot rely on Scholz to do what Merkel did, which leaves Putin without a familiar and seasoned leader to deal with in Europe. Macron, perhaps, sized up this scenario and seized the moment to play mediator in the US-Russia conflict over Ukraine. In dealing with Putin, Macron commands a level of trust that, perhaps, few European leaders enjoy at present. Besides, France has a score to settle with the US (and the UK and Australia) for being done out of the settled submarine deal—which he may see as a pact between the Five Eyes (English-speaking nations) against France. And, France, as one of the P-5, can tilt the balance when Russia with China is ranged against the US with a lame-duck UK in tow. In the absence of Merkel, Macron as a experienced European leader who has been dealing with Russia, is all too aware of Moscow's geopolitical and security concerns in the Middle East, where France too has some chestnuts in the fire. Moreover, Putin is also said to know French although how much of it he uses in interactions with Macron is not known. So, this is that breach which Macron has stepped into, perhaps with an eye on a new leadership profile in the EU, another term as president and scoring a point against the Anglo-American axis. The author is Editorial Consultant, WION TV. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

On the margin | Ukraine crisis will test Europe’s mettle

The Pentagon has claimed that an attack on Ukraine may happen today, but there is still time for diplomacy.

This development occurs at a time when world leaders are renewing diplomatic efforts in the hopes of averting a Russian invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

According to the White House, President Joe Biden has agreed to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in principle if he refrains from attacking his neighbour, which US officials believe is becoming increasingly likely.&nbsp;

When the military drills in Belarus, which is located on Ukraine's northern border, were set to end on Sunday, Russian forces were scheduled to return home.

However, Moscow and Minsk have announced that Russian forces will remain in the country permanently.

The Russian forces' prolonged presence in Belarus has generated fears that they will be dispatched to the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, a metropolis of 3 million people less than three hours' drive from the Belarus border.&nbsp;

According to US sources, more than 150,000 Russian troops are massed near Ukraine's borders.

Despite Russian President Vladimir Putin's and the Kremlin's claims that some troops have started to evacuate, Biden informed reporters that more Russian military have moved in, contradicting Moscow's claims.&nbsp;

It's still unclear whether Putin intends to strike his former Soviet neighbour.

Russia has denied any invasion intentions and reaffirmed its insistence that the US and NATO refuse to admit Ukraine to the armed alliance.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Pentagon has claimed that an attack on Ukraine may happen today, but there is still time for diplomacy. This development occurs at a time when world leaders are renewing diplomatic efforts in the hopes of averting a Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The Pentagon has claimed that an attack on Ukraine may happen today, but there is still time for diplomacy. This development occurs at a time when world leaders are renewing diplomatic efforts in the hopes of averting a Russian invasion of Ukraine. According to the White House, President Joe Biden has agreed to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in principle if he refrains from attacking his neighbour, which US officials believe is becoming increasingly likely. When the military drills in Belarus, which is located on Ukraine's northern border, were set to end on Sunday, Russian forces were scheduled to return home. However, Moscow and Minsk have announced that Russian forces will remain in the country permanently. The Russian forces' prolonged presence in Belarus has generated fears that they will be dispatched to the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, a metropolis of 3 million people less than three hours' drive from the Belarus border. According to US sources, more than 150,000 Russian troops are massed near Ukraine's borders. Despite Russian President Vladimir Putin's and the Kremlin's claims that some troops have started to evacuate, Biden informed reporters that more Russian military have moved in, contradicting Moscow's claims. It's still unclear whether Putin intends to strike his former Soviet neighbour. Russia has denied any invasion intentions and reaffirmed its insistence that the US and NATO refuse to admit Ukraine to the armed alliance. (With inputs from agencies)

Pentagon says attack on Ukraine could happen today, but there is still time for diplomacy

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