The Russia-Ukraine war continues to escalate, with both sides exchanging heavy long-range strikes far beyond the front lines.

Ukrainian drone attacks in Russia’s southern regions reportedly killed two people, including an eight-year-old child, while debris damaged buildings in the port city of Novorossiysk. Russian authorities said their air defenses shot down dozens of Ukrainian drones over Russian territory and the Black Sea.

Ukraine, meanwhile, reported that Russian drone and missile strikes killed civilians in Kherson. Ukraine’s Air Force said Russia launched a large wave of missiles and drones targeting areas including the Odesa region and northeastern Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has also warned that Russia could be preparing for a new mobilisation following its September parliamentary elections. Ukrainian authorities say intelligence points to preparations for a potential large-scale recruitment drive, although Russian officials have not confirmed such a plan.

Ukraine Strikes Russia With Hundreds of Drones as Moscow Launches Major Air Assault

Ukraine has launched another long-range drone strike deep inside Russian territory, hitting a major Wildberries warehouse more than 2,000 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. The attack is part of Kyiv's growing campaign targeting Russia's logistics infrastructure. According to reports, nearly 20 Wildberries facilities have been struck since mid-July.

Ukraine says the strikes are aimed at increasing the cost of Russia's war effort, while Moscow accuses Kyiv of targeting civilian infrastructure. At the same time, Russia has intensified attacks on Ukrainian warehouses, Black Sea ports, and critical export infrastructure, raising concerns over global food supplies and escalating tensions in the Russia-Ukraine war.

Ukraine Drones Strike Deep Inside Russia | Major Wildberries Warehouse Hit 2,000 KM From Border

The Russia-Ukraine conflict is escalating in the Black Sea, raising fresh concerns over maritime security and global trade. At the same time, tensions continue to simmer in West Asia around the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, two of the world's most strategic shipping chokepoints. With multiple maritime flashpoints under pressure, fears are growing over energy supplies, commercial shipping, and regional stability.

Russia and Ukraine Escalate Black Sea War, Bab Al-Mandeb and Hormuz Tensions Continue in West Asia

Ukraine launched one of its biggest drone attacks on Russia, killing at least eight people and striking multiple regions overnight. Russian officials said Ukrainian drones hit a Wildberries warehouse in the Samara region, triggering a major fire, while Moscow claimed its air defenses intercepted 635 drones during the assault.

The attack reached nearly 800 kilometers inside Russian territory, highlighting Kyiv's growing long-range strike capability. Authorities continue to assess the damage as tensions between Russia and Ukraine escalate further.

Stay tuned for the latest updates on the Russia-Ukraine war, military developments, and global geopolitical news.

Ukraine Launches Massive Drone Assault on Russia, Kills Eight and Strikes Wildberries Warehouse

Russia has launched one of its largest missile attacks on Kyiv, killing at least 10 people and injuring dozens as the war in Ukraine intensifies. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has renewed calls for additional Patriot air defense systems, warning that Ukraine urgently needs stronger protection against Russian ballistic missiles.

Meanwhile, Ukraine claims it struck Russian oil refineries deep inside Russian territory and targeted shipping routes in the Black Sea, while Moscow says it intercepted hundreds of Ukrainian drones. As fighting escalates, the United States says it is exploring ways to revive peace talks between Russia and Ukraine.

Russia Pounds Kyiv With Massive Missile Barrage | Ukraine Pleads For Patriot Missiles |War Escalates

A cryptic social media post by the head of Ukraine's defense company Firepoint has sparked intense speculation about rising tensions between Ukraine and Iran. The now-deleted post referenced the long-range FP-5 Flamingo cruise missile, capable of striking targets up to 3,000 kilometers away, fueling fears of a possible direct military confrontation.

The message comes amid reports of alleged attacks on an Iranian vessel in the Caspian Sea and growing geopolitical tensions involving Kyiv, Tehran, and Russia. Could this signal a new front in the conflict?

Watch the full report for the latest developments.

Ukraine Threatens Iran? Flamingo Missile Post Sparks Fears Of Direct Military Conflict

Russia launched a devastating overnight ballistic missile attack on Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, killing at least nine people and injuring 28 others, including children, according to Ukrainian officials. Multiple explosions rocked the city as missiles struck several districts, leaving damaged buildings, destroyed ambulances, and emergency responders searching through the rubble for survivors.

The strike comes amid an intensifying phase of the Russia-Ukraine war, with both sides increasingly targeting military and energy infrastructure. Ukrainian officials say the country's air defense systems are struggling to intercept Russia's growing use of ballistic missiles, while Kyiv continues to appeal for more Western air defense support.

The attack follows reports of Ukrainian long-range strikes inside Russia targeting logistics hubs, oil refineries, and military infrastructure, highlighting the continued escalation of the conflict.

Russia Launches Massive Missile Strike on Kyiv | 9 Dead, Emergency Services Hit

Russia unleashed a massive air assault across Ukraine on Thursday, firing over 70 missiles and 280 drones, exposing severe gaps in Kyiv's air defence and shelter networks. As Ukrainian forces retaliated with long-range drone hits inside Russia, President Volodymyr Zelensky's push to manufacture U.S. Patriot interceptors domestically has hit a major wall after President Donald Trump expressed doubts. We break down Ukraine's shelter crisis, the air defence crisis, and what Trump's position means for Kyiv's survival.

Trump Dashes Zelensky's Patriot Dream as Putin Exploits Ukraine's Air Defence Gap

In today's top world news: Ukraine says a Russian missile strike killed at least six people in Kryvyi Rih, firefighters battle a massive wildfire on England's Suffolk coast, Iran releases footage alleging a US strike on a family home, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge attacks the government's anti-paper leak bill, Japan's earthquake death toll rises to 34, Indian markets extend gains despite global uncertainty, and Stephen Fleming is appointed England's Test head coach as Joe Root returns as captain.

Ukraine Strike | Japan Quake |  England Wildfire |  Kharge Attack & Market Rally | World News

The second week of Parliament's Monsoon Session is expected to witness intense political confrontation after the first week was disrupted by nationwide student protests over the alleged NEET paper leak. Although the protests have ended following the resignation of former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the opposition is preparing to raise fresh questions over the alleged use of force by Delhi Police during the July 20 protest march.

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, seeking answers on the alleged deployment of pellet guns and plainclothes personnel against protesting students. Congress and other opposition parties are also expected to raise issues including the alleged Ram Janmabhoomi embezzlement case, the proposed India–US trade agreement, agricultural concerns, ethanol policy, and fresh protests planned by transport operators.


Russia-Ukraine War | 12 Killed in Zaporizhzhia Strike | Zelenskyy Warns of New Russian Mobilization

Welcome to the latest edition of WION World Is One, bringing you the top international headlines from around the globe.

Iran has warned of a wider West Asia conflict if the United States proceeds with military action, issuing the warning ahead of the Israeli Prime Minister's visit to Washington amid escalating regional tensions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russia of providing satellite intelligence to Iran to support attacks on U.S. military bases and Gulf facilities, adding another dimension to the ongoing geopolitical crisis.

India's Ministry of External Affairs has issued a fresh advisory urging Indian nationals to carefully assess the security situation before accepting jobs on commercial vessels operating in or transiting through the Black Sea, citing rising security risks linked to ongoing conflicts.


Iran Warns of Wider West Asia War | Zelenskyy Accuses Russia | India Issues Black Sea Advisory 

Tensions between Iran and Ukraine have escalated after Tehran condemned what it described as a Ukrainian attack on an Iranian commercial vessel in the Caspian Sea. According to Iran's Foreign Ministry, the strike caused an explosion aboard the vessel early Saturday, killing one sailor and injuring another. Iran called the incident an act of aggression and accused Ukraine of violating the United Nations Charter by extending the conflict beyond the battlefield. Tehran also urged the UN Security Council, the European Union, and the international community to condemn the alleged attack.
Iranian officials reiterated that the country has not directly participated in the Russia-Ukraine war and warned that it would defend its national interests under international law. Tehran also held Kyiv and its supporters responsible for any further escalation in regional tensions.
The issue was raised by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi during a phone conversation with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukrainian forces had carried out strikes on logistics hubs, an oil refinery, a fuel depot, and military-linked maritime assets in the Caspian Sea, including vessels allegedly used for military cargo shipments involving Iran and a Russian warship.

Iran Condemns Alleged Ukrainian Attack on Commercial Vessel in Caspian Sea | Iran- Ukraine News

The world is witnessing a series of major developments across multiple regions.

In today's top global headlines:

Student protests continue to grow in India over the NEET paper leak controversy.
Israel intensifies military operations in Lebanon amid rising regional tensions.
Russia launches fresh strikes across Ukraine, causing destruction and civilian casualties.
Massive wildfires spread across France, forcing evacuations and emergency responses.

Stay tuned for comprehensive coverage, expert analysis, and the latest international developments shaping global politics, conflict, security, and climate events.

Watch the complete bulletin for all the latest updates.

Students' Protests Grow in India | Israel Bombards Lebanon | Russia Strikes Ukraine | Wion News 

Russia has launched another wave of heavy airstrikes across Ukraine, targeting residential areas and a hospital in Zaporizhzhia, leaving multiple civilians injured. As the war intensifies, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced plans to jointly produce Patriot missile interceptors with US defense giant Raytheon to strengthen Ukraine's air defenses. The latest attacks have also disrupted Black Sea shipping, pushing global wheat prices higher and raising concerns over international food security. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to urge Western allies to accelerate military assistance as Russian missile and drone attacks intensify.

Russia-Ukraine war escalates|  Zelensky pushes patriot missile production as Black sea crisis deepens

Activist Sonam Wangchuk has officially ended his 26-day hunger strike after receiving assurances from the government that no legal action will be taken against protesters at Jantar Mantar. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also urged Wangchuk to prioritize his health while announcing stricter action against NEET paper leaks, including fast-track courts and tougher punishments for offenders.

In today's global headlines, the United States continues its military campaign against Iran, launching its 13th consecutive night of strikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure. US President Donald Trump has announced that frozen Iranian assets will be used to compensate ships and cargo affected by attacks in the Gulf while also unveiling new tariffs on 60 trading partners.

Meanwhile, Russia's missile strike on eastern Ukraine injured civilians and damaged residential buildings, while devastating wildfires continue to spread across Italy, France, and Spain, forcing thousands to evacuate. Albania witnessed violent protests over a Trump-linked luxury resort project, and the US imposed fresh sanctions on Cuba's international medical missions program.

Stay tuned for the latest international developments, geopolitical updates, and breaking world news.

Sonam Wangchuk ends hunger strike | PM Modi's big NEET reform | US strikes Iran |Russia- Ukraine War

Ukraine is witnessing growing political unrest as President Volodymyr Zelensky faces widespread criticism following the dismissal of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. Protests have erupted across Kyiv, while the former minister has reportedly criticized the country's military leadership and war strategy. The political crisis unfolds as Russia intensifies missile attacks and Ukraine continues long-range drone operations.


Zelensky faces massive protests after defense minister's shock dismissal | Ukraine political crisis 

Russia has carried out another deadly missile strike on Ukraine's Black Sea port city of Odesa, killing two people and injuring eight others, including two children. Ukrainian officials said the attack caused extensive damage to residential buildings, a preschool, a religious institution, vehicles and other civilian infrastructure. The strike came just a day after another wave of Russian bombardments killed 13 people across Ukraine. According to Ukrainian authorities, Russia also launched 122 attack drones and two ballistic missiles in its latest assault. Meanwhile, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has appointed a new acting defence minister following a cabinet reshuffle, while the removal of the former defence minister has sparked criticism and public protests over Ukraine's military leadership.



Deadly Russian missile hits Odesa | Zelensky reshuffles defence leadership amid escalating war

Russia has launched another large-scale drone and missile assault across Ukraine, killing at least 13 people and injuring more than 50 as fighting intensifies across the country. The attacks targeted several regions, including Odesa, Sumy, Zaporizhzhia, Mykolaiv, Kyiv, and Kharkiv, damaging civilian infrastructure, industrial facilities, and medical buildings. According to the Ukrainian Air Force, Russia launched 122 attack drones and two ballistic missiles, with Ukrainian air defenses intercepting 101 drones. Explosions were reported across Kyiv after ballistic missile alerts, while officials confirmed damage to warehouses and other non-residential buildings. President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine expects to begin domestic production of missiles for the U.S.-made Patriot air defense system by the end of the year, calling the project a historic step toward strengthening the country's defense capabilities.

Russia-Ukraine war | Deadly Russian strikes kill 13 as EU unveils €11.4 billion military package

Russia has launched another large-scale drone and missile assault across Ukraine, killing at least 13 people and injuring more than 50 as fighting continues to intensify. The attacks targeted several regions, including Kyiv, Sumy, Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, and Mykolaiv, damaging civilian infrastructure, industrial facilities, and medical buildings.
According to the Ukrainian Air Force, Russia launched 122 attack drones and two ballistic missiles, with Ukrainian air defenses intercepting 101 drones. Explosions were reported across Kyiv following missile alerts, while officials confirmed damage to warehouses and non-residential buildings.


Russia pounds Ukraine with 122 drones and missiles | 13 dead, kyiv under heavy attack

A woman suspected of carrying out a bombing at a luxury apartment building in Monaco has been found dead near Kyiv, Ukraine, days after the attack shocked authorities. The explosion seriously injured a Ukrainian-born business magnate and two others, triggering an international investigation. Following the discovery of the suspect's body, authorities announced the arrest of two men in connection with her death. The case has raised new questions about the motives behind the bombing, possible criminal links, and the circumstances surrounding the suspect's killing.


Monaco bombing suspect found shot dead near Kyiv after manhunt 

Ukraine is planning to replace its kopeck coins with “shah”—a historical Ukrainian term as a continued effort to shed symbols of Russian dominance, Central Bank Governor Andriy Pyshnyi announced while expressing hope that the change could be implemented by the end of this year. Ukraine introduced its hryvnia currency in 1996, five years after it gained independence from the Soviet Union, minting its own coins but retaining the former Soviet name kopeck—kopikya in Ukrainian. Now, almost four years into Moscow’s full-scale invasion, new coins, to be known by the historical Ukrainian term “shah”, would mark the latest shift away from Russia.“We should finally remove any affinity, any connection with Moscow. Because we have our own name. And the time has come to finally take it back,” Pyshnyi said in an interview with Reuters.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-origin-cincinnati-mayor-aftab-pureval-wins-second-term-vanquishes-jd-vance-s-half-brother-1762347016439">Indian-origin Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval wins second term, vanquishes JD Vance’s half-brother</a>&nbsp;He added that of the 15 former Soviet republics, only Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine have retained the kopeck, and he assured that the renaming will involve no additional costs, as the single coin in circulation—equivalent to slightly more than one US cent—would be gradually replaced by the 50-shah coin.&nbsp;Ukraine’s parliament is preparing to debate the draft law on replacing the coin and the central bank is organising public discussions, exhibitions and other events to raise awareness about the proposal, he said.&nbsp;<h2>Ukrainians shed all associations with Russia</h2>&nbsp;The shah, which means “step”, was used as a monetary term in Ukraine in the 16th and 17th centuries. Notes named “shah” were also in circulation during the Ukrainian revolution in 1917-1921, Pyshnyi said, displaying bills from that period.“It is important to say that the kopeck has been retained in only three of the (15) former republics of the Soviet Union. Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine,” Pyshnyi said. The longtime leader of Belarus is a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-american-lawyer-neal-katyal-to-argue-against-trump-s-tariffs-in-us-supreme-court-1762283120852">Indian-American lawyer Neal Katyal to argue against Trump’s tariffs in US Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;Russian is a first language for many Ukrainians and the population had a predominantly positive attitude towards Russia in the early 2000s. Some still speak Russian, but the war has prompted many to give up associations with the Russian language and culture, which Moscow says it is fighting to protect.Hundreds of villages and towns have changed street names, and monuments to Soviet or Russian figures have been dismantled. Memorial plaques to Russian authors, artists, or scientists who visited, worked, or lived in Ukraine have been removed.&nbsp;Ukrainians, especially younger ones, are rediscovering national history and identity, reclaiming Ukrainian writers, poets, artists, musicians, and other famous figures.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-10-of-india-controls-army-rahul-gandhi-s-caste-remark-in-bihar-kicks-up-new-storm-1762270304493">‘10% of India controls Army’: Rahul Gandhi’s caste remark in Bihar kicks up new storm</a>&nbsp;A poll conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology in September said that about 91% of Ukrainians have a negative attitude towards Russia, while 4% view it positively.

A poll conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology said that about 91% of Ukrainians have a negative attitude towards Russia, while 4% view it positively. The young Ukrainians are rediscovering national history and identity, reclaiming Ukrainian writers, poets, and musicians.

Ukraine is planning to replace its kopeck coins with “shah”—a historical Ukrainian term as a continued effort to shed symbols of Russian dominance, Central Bank Governor Andriy Pyshnyi announced while expressing hope that the change could be implemented by the end of this year. Ukraine introduced its hryvnia currency in 1996, five years after it gained independence from the Soviet Union, minting its own coins but retaining the former Soviet name kopeck—kopikya in Ukrainian. Now, almost four years into Moscow’s full-scale invasion, new coins, to be known by the historical Ukrainian term “shah”, would mark the latest shift away from Russia. “We should finally remove any affinity, any connection with Moscow. Because we have our own name. And the time has come to finally take it back,” Pyshnyi said in an interview with Reuters. Also Read: Indian-origin Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval wins second term, vanquishes JD Vance’s half-brother He added that of the 15 former Soviet republics, only Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine have retained the kopeck, and he assured that the renaming will involve no additional costs, as the single coin in circulation—equivalent to slightly more than one US cent—would be gradually replaced by the 50-shah coin. Ukraine’s parliament is preparing to debate the draft law on replacing the coin and the central bank is organising public discussions, exhibitions and other events to raise awareness about the proposal, he said. Ukrainians shed all associations with Russia The shah, which means “step”, was used as a monetary term in Ukraine in the 16th and 17th centuries. Notes named “shah” were also in circulation during the Ukrainian revolution in 1917-1921, Pyshnyi said, displaying bills from that period. “It is important to say that the kopeck has been retained in only three of the (15) former republics of the Soviet Union. Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine,” Pyshnyi said. The longtime leader of Belarus is a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Also Read: Indian-American lawyer Neal Katyal to argue against Trump’s tariffs in US Supreme Court Russian is a first language for many Ukrainians and the population had a predominantly positive attitude towards Russia in the early 2000s. Some still speak Russian, but the war has prompted many to give up associations with the Russian language and culture, which Moscow says it is fighting to protect. Hundreds of villages and towns have changed street names, and monuments to Soviet or Russian figures have been dismantled. Memorial plaques to Russian authors, artists, or scientists who visited, worked, or lived in Ukraine have been removed. Ukrainians, especially younger ones, are rediscovering national history and identity, reclaiming Ukrainian writers, poets, artists, musicians, and other famous figures. Also Read: ‘10% of India controls Army’: Rahul Gandhi’s caste remark in Bihar kicks up new storm A poll conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology in September said that about 91% of Ukrainians have a negative attitude towards Russia, while 4% view it positively.

A poll conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology said that about 91% of Ukrainians have a negative attitude towards Russia, while 4% view it positively. The young Ukrainians are rediscovering national history and identity, reclaiming Ukrainian writers, poets, and musicians.

Ukraine to replace kopeck coins with ‘shah’ in another bid to break away from Russia

Andriy Parubiy, a Ukrainian politician who had served as the parliament speaker and played an active role in the EuroMaidan Revolution, was assassinated in broad daylight by a gunman disguised as a delivery courier in Lviv on Saturday. Ukraine’s National Police had said earlier in the day that a political figure was murdered after a shooting in the western Ukrainian city. Iryna Herashchenko, a lawmaker from the European Solidarity party, subsequently confirmed that Parubiy was the victim. “Law enforcement officers are taking all measures to establish the identity of the shooter and his location. All details will be disclosed in the manner and to the extent stipulated by criminal procedural legislation,” said local authorities.&nbsp;&nbsp;Parubiy, who had served as the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine’s parliament, was a staunchly pro-Ukrainian politician who was known as the “commandant of Maidan”—the tent camp that led the demonstrations in Kyiv. He had played a prominent role in the protests in Kyiv in 2014 that led to the toppling of pro-Moscow president Viktor Yanukovych.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Ukraine’s Minister of Internal Affairs Ihor Klymenko and Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko have just reported the first known circumstances of the horrendous murder in Lviv. Andriy Parubiy was killed. My condolences to his family and loved ones. All necessary forces and means…&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1961727262799155484?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky said, “Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko and Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko have just informed me about the first known circumstances of the terrible murder in Lviv. Andriy Parubiy has died.”“All necessary means have been deployed in the investigation and search for the killer.”Authorities received an emergency call at around noon after the shooting in Lviv’s southern Frankivskyi city district, the police said. Parubiy reportedly died at the scene.&nbsp;<h2>Assailant came on electric bicycle, was dressed as courier</h2>&nbsp;Citing sources, Suspilne broadcaster reported that the suspected assailant was dressed as a delivery courier and rode an electric bicycle. The attacker reportedly approached Parubiy, opened fire, and fled from the scene on the bicycle. Seven shell casings were found at the crime scene, law enforcement sources said.The manhunt for the shooter continues across the Lviv Oblast, with all security services mobilised for the search operation. The incident marks another high-profile killing in Lviv, following the July 2024 assassination of former MP Iryna Farion in the same city.&nbsp;<h2>Parubiy participated in 2004 Orange Revolution, EuroMaidan Revolution in 2013-2014</h2>&nbsp;Parubiy, who was 54, was a longtime lawmaker from Lviv Oblast who participated in the Orange Revolution in 2004 and formed self-defence volunteer units during the EuroMaidan Revolution in 2013-2014.After the ousting of pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych in the wake of EuroMaidan, Parubiy was appointed National Security and Defence Council secretary. He held the position between February and August 2014, at the time when Russia occupied Crimea and launched its aggression in Donbas.Parubiy then served as the first deputy parliament speaker between 2014 and 2016 and as the parliament speaker from 2016 until 2019. Since 2019, Parubiy has been a member of ex-President Petro Poroshenko’s European Solidarity party.&nbsp;“Our team is shocked. This is terror,” Heraschenko said in a statement published on European Solidarity’s Facebook page.“Andriy was one of the founders of the modern Ukraine... principled and decent, patriotic, intelligent.”&nbsp;Parubiy gained prominence during the 2013-2014 Euromaidan protests as commandant of the tent camp and head of self-defence detachments.During the February 2014 revolution, after the ousting of pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych, Parubiy led forces that took control of the government quarter in Kyiv, including the Verkhovna Rada, Presidential Administration, Cabinet of Ministers, and Interior Ministry buildings.

Andriy Parubiy was a staunchly pro-Ukrainian politician who was known as the “commandant of Maidan”—the tent camp that led the demonstrations in Kyiv. He had also played a prominent role in the protests in Kyiv in 2014 that led to the toppling of the pro-Moscow president Viktor Yanukovych.

Andriy Parubiy, a Ukrainian politician who had served as the parliament speaker and played an active role in the EuroMaidan Revolution, was assassinated in broad daylight by a gunman disguised as a delivery courier in Lviv on Saturday. Ukraine’s National Police had said earlier in the day that a political figure was murdered after a shooting in the western Ukrainian city. Iryna Herashchenko, a lawmaker from the European Solidarity party, subsequently confirmed that Parubiy was the victim. “Law enforcement officers are taking all measures to establish the identity of the shooter and his location. All details will be disclosed in the manner and to the extent stipulated by criminal procedural legislation,” said local authorities. Parubiy, who had served as the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine’s parliament, was a staunchly pro-Ukrainian politician who was known as the “commandant of Maidan”—the tent camp that led the demonstrations in Kyiv. He had played a prominent role in the protests in Kyiv in 2014 that led to the toppling of pro-Moscow president Viktor Yanukovych.

Andriy Parubiy was a staunchly pro-Ukrainian politician who was known as the “commandant of Maidan”—the tent camp that led the demonstrations in Kyiv. He had also played a prominent role in the protests in Kyiv in 2014 that led to the toppling of the pro-Moscow president Viktor Yanukovych.

Ukraine parliament’s ex-speaker Andriy Parubiy assassinated; Zelensky calls it ‘horrendous murder’

Us President Donald Trump's recent effort to strike a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine failed to yield any results. Both the countries have continued to launch military attacks on each other with latest being a drone strike by Moscow on Ukrainian navy reconnaissance ship Simferopol. The largest ship commissioned by Kyiv in over a decade, has sunk by the strike, said Russian Defence Ministry on Thursday.&nbsp;The vessel designed for radio, electronic, radar, and optical reconnaissance was hit in the Danube River delta, part of which lies in Ukraine’s Odesa region, according to Russia Today.&nbsp;The Russian state-owned news agency TASS said this was the first successful use of a sea drone strike on a Ukrainian Navy vessel, which was a Laguna-class, medium-sized ship.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-ends-de-minimis-exemption-as-trump-s-tariff-war-escalates-what-this-means-and-how-it-will-impact-customers-1756446104411">Trump tariff war escalates with end of 'de minimis' exemption — What is it and how will it hit US online buyers?</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨⚡️ EPIC STRIKE! Watch Russia’s high-speed kamikaze sea drone obliterate the Ukrainian Navy’s Simferopol reconnaissance ship at the Danube mouth. The strike was precise—ship sunk instantly. Midnight in southern Odesa, dominance is undeniable. 🇷🇺🔥 <a href="https://t.co/qPUxwW9pVR">pic.twitter.com/qPUxwW9pVR</a>&mdash; RussiaNews 🇷🇺 (@mog_russEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/mog_russEN/status/1961183619411841140?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The news of the vessel being hit was also confirmed by the Ukrainian authorities. However, they did not say how the attack was carried out. Neither did the officials name the vessel or provide details about its status.&nbsp;"Efforts to address the aftermath of the attack are ongoing. The majority of the crew are safe, and the search for several missing sailors continues," said Ukrainian Navy spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk to the Kyiv Independent.&nbsp;One crew member was killed in the attack while several others were injured, reported the Ukrainian media outlet Kiev Independent citing a Ukrainian Navy spokesperson.&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/a-ticking-time-bomb-200-000-radioactive-barrels-13-000-feet-under-atlantic-ocean-trigger-panic-1756365852337"> European nations dumped 200,000 barrels of radioactive waste in the ocean, and humans might soon pay the price</a>&nbsp;About the Vessel&nbsp;launched in 2019, the vessel (Simferopol) joined the Ukrainian Navy two years later. It was the largest ship that Kiev managed in over a decade. Armed with a 30 mm AK-306 artillery system, the ship was designed for radio, electronic, radar, and optical reconnaissance. &nbsp;

This was the first successful use of a sea drone strike on a Ukrainian Navy vessel, which was a Laguna-class, medium-sized ship.

Us President Donald Trump's recent effort to strike a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine failed to yield any results. Both the countries have continued to launch military attacks on each other with latest being a drone strike by Moscow on Ukrainian navy reconnaissance ship Simferopol. The largest ship commissioned by Kyiv in over a decade, has sunk by the strike, said Russian Defence Ministry on Thursday. The vessel designed for radio, electronic, radar, and optical reconnaissance was hit in the Danube River delta, part of which lies in Ukraine’s Odesa region, according to Russia Today. The Russian state-owned news agency TASS said this was the first successful use of a sea drone strike on a Ukrainian Navy vessel, which was a Laguna-class, medium-sized ship. Also Read: Trump tariff war escalates with end of 'de minimis' exemption — What is it and how will it hit US online buyers?

This was the first successful use of a sea drone strike on a Ukrainian Navy vessel, which was a Laguna-class, medium-sized ship.

WATCH: Ukraine's largest navy ship hit by Russian drone attack, sinks, several injured

Ukraine revealed a new Ukrainian cruise missile, the FP-5 “Flamingo”, on August 17, and since then, it has been getting attention on a global level, seen as a deterrent to Russia amid the ongoing war. Here's all you need to know about Ukraine's Flamingo:<h2>How big is the Flamingo missile?</h2>The FP-5 Flamingo is the heaviest missile system Ukraine has ever built. Fire Point says it has:• A wingspan of six metres• A launch weight of 6,000 kilograms• A payload capacity of 1,150 kilogramsThis makes it far larger and more powerful than earlier Ukrainian drones or mini-cruise missiles.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-big-d-energy-ukraine-s-new-flamingo-missile-can-strike-3-000km-into-russia-here-s-why-it-matters-1755974040359">‘Big d*** energy’: Ukraine’s new 'Flamingo' missile can strike 3,000km into Russia - Here’s why it matters</a><h2>Why does it look like the V-1 rocket?</h2>The top-mounted engine gives it a resemblance to the German V-1 “flying bomb” from the Second World War. But that is where the similarities stop. The V-1 used a basic pulse jet. The Flamingo instead runs on a Motor Sich AI-25TL turbofan engine, the same type used in Aero L-39 trainer jets. This engine explains how the Flamingo can reach a range of 3,000 kilometres, far beyond Ukraine’s existing strike weapons.<h2>How fast and accurate is the Flamingo missile?</h2>Fire Point says the missile can travel at speeds of around 950 km/h. This likely refers to its top velocity near the end of flight, though its cruising speed is a little slower. For guidance, the Flamingo relies on GPS-assisted inertial navigation. It does not carry more advanced systems like terrain-matching or infrared seekers. This keeps production simple, but it also means a reported accuracy (CEP) of around 14 metres.<h2>Production goals and limits</h2>At present, Fire Point produces about one missile per day, roughly 30 per month. By year-end, the company claims it could increase this sevenfold, reaching over 200 per month, or 2,500 annually. The main challenge is the engine. While most components can be scaled up, production depends on Motor Sich or other suppliers being able to deliver enough turbofan engines. Even if the target is ambitious, keeping production steady at 30 to 50 missiles per month would still give Ukraine a strong arsenal of heavy cruise missiles.<h2>How destructive is the Flamingo?</h2>The FP-5 has two major advantages over Ukraine’s current systems:• Penetration power: Its high terminal velocity and weight mean it can pierce structures before detonation.• Bigger blast radius: With a warhead of more than 1,000 kilograms, it can devastate both hardened military structures and softer targets like oil refineries.<h2>What does this mean for Ukraine’s future?</h2>While the Flamingo’s immediate value is clear for today’s war, its long-term importance could be even greater. If Ukraine can mass-produce thousands of Flamingo-type missiles, it would gain a powerful deterrent. In a post-war Europe, such an arsenal could make Russia think twice before any future aggression. Ukraine’s Flamingo is not just a missile for today’s battlefield, it could be the country’s insurance policy&nbsp;for&nbsp;tomorrow.

Ukraine unveiled the FP-5 “Flamingo” cruise missile on August 17, gaining global attention as a potential deterrent against Russia amid the ongoing war and rising regional tensions.

Ukraine revealed a new Ukrainian cruise missile, the FP-5 “Flamingo”, on August 17, and since then, it has been getting attention on a global level, seen as a deterrent to Russia amid the ongoing war. Here's all you need to know about Ukraine's Flamingo: How big is the Flamingo missile? The FP-5 Flamingo is the heaviest missile system Ukraine has ever built. Fire Point says it has: • A wingspan of six metres • A launch weight of 6,000 kilograms • A payload capacity of 1,150 kilograms This makes it far larger and more powerful than earlier Ukrainian drones or mini-cruise missiles. Also read: ‘Big d*** energy’: Ukraine’s new 'Flamingo' missile can strike 3,000km into Russia - Here’s why it matters Why does it look like the V-1 rocket? The top-mounted engine gives it a resemblance to the German V-1 “flying bomb” from the Second World War. But that is where the similarities stop. The V-1 used a basic pulse jet. The Flamingo instead runs on a Motor Sich AI-25TL turbofan engine, the same type used in Aero L-39 trainer jets. This engine explains how the Flamingo can reach a range of 3,000 kilometres, far beyond Ukraine’s existing strike weapons. How fast and accurate is the Flamingo missile? Fire Point says the missile can travel at speeds of around 950 km/h. This likely refers to its top velocity near the end of flight, though its cruising speed is a little slower. For guidance, the Flamingo relies on GPS-assisted inertial navigation. It does not carry more advanced systems like terrain-matching or infrared seekers. This keeps production simple, but it also means a reported accuracy (CEP) of around 14 metres. Production goals and limits At present, Fire Point produces about one missile per day, roughly 30 per month. By year-end, the company claims it could increase this sevenfold, reaching over 200 per month, or 2,500 annually. The main challenge is the engine. While most components can be scaled up, production depends on Motor Sich or other suppliers being able to deliver enough turbofan engines. Even if the target is ambitious, keeping production steady at 30 to 50 missiles per month would still give Ukraine a strong arsenal of heavy cruise missiles. How destructive is the Flamingo? The FP-5 has two major advantages over Ukraine’s current systems: • Penetration power: Its high terminal velocity and weight mean it can pierce structures before detonation. • Bigger blast radius: With a warhead of more than 1,000 kilograms, it can devastate both hardened military structures and softer targets like oil refineries. What does this mean for Ukraine’s future? While the Flamingo’s immediate value is clear for today’s war, its long-term importance could be even greater. If Ukraine can mass-produce thousands of Flamingo-type missiles, it would gain a powerful deterrent. In a post-war Europe, such an arsenal could make Russia think twice before any future aggression. Ukraine’s Flamingo is not just a missile for today’s battlefield, it could be the country’s insurance policy for tomorrow.

Ukraine unveiled the FP-5 “Flamingo” cruise missile on August 17, gaining global attention as a potential deterrent against Russia amid the ongoing war and rising regional tensions.

‘For today’s war and tomorrow’s security’: Ukraine’s new Flamingo missile is the gift that will keep on giving

Deputy Chairman of the Security Council and former President of Russia Dmitry Medvedev lashed out at the French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday (August 20) over Europe's continuous push for sending troops to Ukraine.&nbsp;Taking to the social media platform X, Medvedev wrote, The brainless Gallic rooster can't let go of the idea of sending troops to 'Ukraine.' It's been explicitly stated: NO NATO troops as peacekeepers. Russia won't accept such a “security guarantee.” But the hoarse, pathetic bird continues to crow to prove it's king of the coop."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The brainless Gallic rooster can&#39;t let go of the idea of sending troops to &#39;Ukraine.&#39; It&#39;s been explicitly stated: NO NATO troops as peacekeepers. Russia won&#39;t accept such a &quot;security guarantee.&quot; But the hoarse, pathetic bird continues to crow to prove it&#39;s king of the coop.&mdash; Dmitry Medvedev (@MedvedevRussiaE) <a href="https://twitter.com/MedvedevRussiaE/status/1958204624713748972?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Putin may NEVER meet Zelensky</h2>After Donald Trump's two high-profile meetings with the presidents of Russia and Ukraine, the solution to the war is yet to be found. After meeting Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, Trump announced that he is working on arranging a bilateral meeting between Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The exact date has yet to be determined. The exact location has yet to come. But during this phase, the prime question is still there: Will Putin meet Zelensky? Well, the analysis says Putin is unlikely to meet his Ukrainian counterpart, not right now, and not later on. And there are some prominent reasons for it.&nbsp;<h2>Trump's announcement</h2>Just after his meeting with Zelensky, Trump took to Truth Social and said he had a call with the Russian president. Although it was reported that Trump paused his meeting with the Ukrainian president to call Putin but Trump claimed it was at the end of the meeting.&nbsp;"At the conclusion of the meetings, I called President Putin, and began the arrangements for a meeting, at a location to be determined, between President Putin and President Zelenskyy. After that meeting takes place, we will have a Trilat, which would be the two Presidents, plus myself," the American president said.&nbsp;

Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev lashed out at French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday (August 20) over continuous push for sending troops to Ukraine.

Deputy Chairman of the Security Council and former President of Russia Dmitry Medvedev lashed out at the French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday (August 20) over Europe's continuous push for sending troops to Ukraine. Taking to the social media platform X, Medvedev wrote, The brainless Gallic rooster can't let go of the idea of sending troops to 'Ukraine.' It's been explicitly stated: NO NATO troops as peacekeepers. Russia won't accept such a “security guarantee.” But the hoarse, pathetic bird continues to crow to prove it's king of the coop."

Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev lashed out at French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday (August 20) over Europe's continuous push for sending troops to Ukraine.

'Brainless Gallic rooster': Dmitry Medvedev publicly lashes out at Macron over NATO troops in Ukraine

The Russia-Ukraine conflict is getting terrifying as time progresses. To cope with Russian drone threats, specifically explosive FPV drones, Ukrainian forces have started adding crude "cage armour" over vehicles like Humvees and even M1 Abrams tanks. Both Russia and Ukraine have started to protect themselves with an extensive DIY aesthetic that resembles the post-apocalyptic, dystopian action film ‘Mad Max’. A Humvee near Donetsk feature a cage structure with metal spikes- that are designed to repel drone strikes.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Photo of a Ukrainian humvee with a CUAS cage and sticks.<a href="https://t.co/nif5MYT6fT">https://t.co/nif5MYT6fT</a> <a href="https://t.co/5vYAn3GkhC">pic.twitter.com/5vYAn3GkhC</a>&mdash; Rob Lee (@RALee85) <a href="https://twitter.com/RALee85/status/1955198627112013970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Traditional armour is no longer enough. A Kyiv-based team led by ‘Musa’, a former doctor, has built one-off buggies with welded frames, oversized wheels, and decorative teeth on the grille. These serve as rapid response, transport, and evacuation vehicles. The speed of the evolving drone technology in the span of the war has compelled both Russia and Ukraine to improvise. Last month, a video surfaced which shows a tank shielded by a massive cage, which reportedly needed 60 drones to take out. The armouring effort includes integrating metal cages, netting, chains, protruding spikes, metal plates, and more, sometimes alongside additional explosive reactive armour.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Russian monster tank reportedly took 60 FPV drones to destroy. Its armor was so tough, operators struggled to find a single weak spot. <a href="https://t.co/AJLn120qQJ">pic.twitter.com/AJLn120qQJ</a>&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/1943786337326575792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Pick up trucks such as Mitsubishi L200, Ford Rangers, Toyota Hilux, are weaponised with machine guns, rocket launchers and anti-air weapons, to act as agile militarised platforms. The long, drawn-out war has pushed Ukraine to the brink. To save lives and money, hybrid armoured vehicles named “Frankentanks” are constructed, combining the hull of a T-62 tank with a turret of a BMP-2 armed with a 30 mm 2A42 autocanon; these are born not out of flamboyancy but out of necessity.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">More (+unblured) photos of Technical MLRS in service with the Ukrainian army. Technical uses S-8 aircraft missiles. Drones are used for MLRS adjustment. +I am attaching a video from a real battle to the thread<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/oryxspioenkop?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@oryxspioenkop</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Arslon_Xudosi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Arslon_Xudosi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/UAWeapons?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UAWeapons</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Blue_Sauron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Blue_Sauron</a> <a href="https://t.co/hgr6WF2mF2">pic.twitter.com/hgr6WF2mF2</a>&mdash; Special Kherson Cat 🐈🇺🇦 (@bayraktar_1love) <a href="https://twitter.com/bayraktar_1love/status/1533424541585776640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Tsar Mangal: Russian propagandists showed tanks with a new version of anti-drone cladding <a href="https://t.co/QRQiKA6WC7">pic.twitter.com/QRQiKA6WC7</a>&mdash; NEXTA (@nexta_tv) <a href="https://twitter.com/nexta_tv/status/1826641003681399105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The surge in drone warfare has led to the need for creative solutions for both sides. Caged armour can be seen as one of them. But these don't come with drawbacks, at times limiting mobility and visibility. These improvisations are salvaging something out of nothing, turning civilians into military parts and creating life-saving military tools on the frontline.&nbsp;

With the rapid inclusion of cheap drones in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, both nations are seeking creative and resourceful solutions, thus turning existing military as well as civilian vehicles into post-apocalyptic war machines.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict is getting terrifying as time progresses. To cope with Russian drone threats, specifically explosive FPV drones, Ukrainian forces have started adding crude "cage armour" over vehicles like Humvees and even M1 Abrams tanks. Both Russia and Ukraine have started to protect themselves with an extensive DIY aesthetic that resembles the post-apocalyptic, dystopian action film ‘Mad Max’. A Humvee near Donetsk feature a cage structure with metal spikes- that are designed to repel drone strikes.

With the rapid inclusion of cheap drones in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, both nations are seeking creative and resourceful solutions, thus turning existing military as well as civilian vehicles into post-apocalyptic war machines.

Ukraine's 'Mad Max' war machines: From spiked Humvees to Frankeen tanks in the fight against drones

United States President Donald Trump spoke to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday and discussed the possibility of meeting his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, in Rome next week, according to Sky News.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump has been pressing Russia to reach a ceasefire deal with Ukraine.&nbsp;Italian government sources told the news channel that Trump and Meloni spoke on Thursday. The US and Russian Presidents would meet in either Rome or at the Vatican, it said.&nbsp;The Russian news agency TASS, however, dismissed the possibility of the meeting being in Italy. The Italian government refused to comment on the report.A foreign ministry spokesperson told Sky News that Italy will support a genuine diplomatic dialogue between Russia and Ukraine “sincerely and constructively.”&nbsp;Both Washington and Moscow have confirmed a Putin-Trump meeting is set to take place, possibly as early as next week, reported AFP.&nbsp;Donald Trump has been trying to broker peace in Ukraine since he became the President for the second time. He had said that he would end the war within 24 hours of his becoming the president, but so far hasn't had a breakthrough.&nbsp;Trump has been pressuring nations to stop buying oil from Moscow. His administration imposed a 50 per cent tariff on India for buying Russian oil and weapons.&nbsp;Putin spoke to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday. He also spoke to his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping.&nbsp;China's Xinhua state news agency quoted Xi as having told Putin: "China is glad to see Russia and the United States maintain contact, improve their relations, and promote a political settlement of the Ukraine crisis."

United States President Donald Trump spoke to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday and discussed the possibility of meeting his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, in Rome next week.

United States President Donald Trump spoke to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday and discussed the possibility of meeting his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, in Rome next week, according to Sky News. US President Donald Trump has been pressing Russia to reach a ceasefire deal with Ukraine. Italian government sources told the news channel that Trump and Meloni spoke on Thursday. The US and Russian Presidents would meet in either Rome or at the Vatican, it said. The Russian news agency TASS, however, dismissed the possibility of the meeting being in Italy. The Italian government refused to comment on the report. A foreign ministry spokesperson told Sky News that Italy will support a genuine diplomatic dialogue between Russia and Ukraine “sincerely and constructively.” Both Washington and Moscow have confirmed a Putin-Trump meeting is set to take place, possibly as early as next week, reported AFP. Donald Trump has been trying to broker peace in Ukraine since he became the President for the second time. He had said that he would end the war within 24 hours of his becoming the president, but so far hasn't had a breakthrough. Trump has been pressuring nations to stop buying oil from Moscow. His administration imposed a 50 per cent tariff on India for buying Russian oil and weapons. Putin spoke to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday. He also spoke to his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping. China's Xinhua state news agency quoted Xi as having told Putin: "China is glad to see Russia and the United States maintain contact, improve their relations, and promote a political settlement of the Ukraine crisis."

US President Donald Trump has been pressing Russia to reach a ceasefire deal with Ukraine.

Ukraine war: Donald Trump explored meeting Vladimir Putin in Rome, says report

The United States President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin have agreed upon a venue for the meeting between both the leaders, which will be announced later, said Russian foreign policy advisor Yuri Ushakov. &nbsp;&nbsp;“At the suggestion of the American side, it has been agreed in principle to hold a bilateral meeting at the highest level in the coming days," said Putin’s foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov, as reported by AP.&nbsp;The likely date for the meeting is next week, according to Ushakov who did not mention the exact date or time. The possible venue will be announced “a little later,” he said.&nbsp;When asked about the possibility of Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy joining the summit meeting, Ushakov did not say much.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-india-the-maharaja-of-tariffs-trump-s-trade-advisor-reveals-why-china-is-not-hit-with-tariffs-over-russian-oil-1754561364305">'India, the Maharaja of tariffs': Trump's trade advisor reveals why China is not hit with tariffs over Russian oil</a>&nbsp;“We propose, first of all, to focus on preparing a bilateral meeting with Trump, and we consider it most important that this meeting be successful and productive,” Ushakov said.&nbsp;If the meeting goes through, it will be for the first time that Trump will meet Putin over Ukraine war since assuming power for the second term.&nbsp;This comes amid White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt saying that Russian officials had expressed interest in meeting with Trump. Leavitt did not say when or where such a meeting could take place.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-india-will-never-compromise-pm-narendra-modi-s-firm-response-after-trump-imposes-50-tariff-trade-war-india-us-trade-deal-1754542590867">'India will never compromise...': PM Modi's firm response after Trump imposes 50% tariff</a>&nbsp;The statement came after Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff met Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (August 6). Witkoff arrived in Russia, just two days ahead of the August 8 deadline set by Trump for Russia to reach a ceasefire deal with Ukraine.&nbsp;

The statement came after Trumps envoy Steve Witkoff met Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (August 6) to reach a ceasefire deal with Ukraine. 

The United States President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin have agreed upon a venue for the meeting between both the leaders, which will be announced later, said Russian foreign policy advisor Yuri Ushakov. “At the suggestion of the American side, it has been agreed in principle to hold a bilateral meeting at the highest level in the coming days," said Putin’s foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov, as reported by AP. The likely date for the meeting is next week, according to Ushakov who did not mention the exact date or time. The possible venue will be announced “a little later,” he said. When asked about the possibility of Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy joining the summit meeting, Ushakov did not say much. Also Read: 'India, the Maharaja of tariffs': Trump's trade advisor reveals why China is not hit with tariffs over Russian oil “We propose, first of all, to focus on preparing a bilateral meeting with Trump, and we consider it most important that this meeting be successful and productive,” Ushakov said. If the meeting goes through, it will be for the first time that Trump will meet Putin over Ukraine war since assuming power for the second term. This comes amid White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt saying that Russian officials had expressed interest in meeting with Trump. Leavitt did not say when or where such a meeting could take place. Also Read: 'India will never compromise...': PM Modi's firm response after Trump imposes 50% tariff The statement came after Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff met Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (August 6). Witkoff arrived in Russia, just two days ahead of the August 8 deadline set by Trump for Russia to reach a ceasefire deal with Ukraine.

The statement came after Trump envoy Steve Witkoff met Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (August 6) to reach a ceasefire deal with Ukraine.&nbsp;

Trump to discuss Ukraine war with Putin in first meeting since his White House return

Ukraine once held the third-largest nuclear arsenal on earth. It once had nearly 5,900 nuclear warheads, it was more than Britain, France, and China combined, only fewer than the US and Russia. There were 176 intercontinental missiles in underground silos that could have struck anywhere on the globe. It also had 44 strategic bombers, each was capable of launching nuclear missions. There were 1900 strategic warheads for long-range strike and 4000 tactical ones for battlefield strikes.&nbsp;<h2>How did Ukraine have such a huge nuclear arsenal?</h2>On December 26, 1991, the Cold War ended with the fall of the USSR. Along with it ended the decade-long ideological war between the East and the West. The fall of the USSR can be attributed to many reasons, from the failed attempt by Mikhail Gorbachev to rejuvenate the Russian stagnating economy, the movement for independence in Soviet Republics, to the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster. All led to a chaotic dissolution of the Soviet Republic and the birth of 18 different states. Ukraine was one of those 18 states. It did not build any nuclear weapons. Soviets had stationed them on the Ukrainian soil to target the West, and Ukraine inherited them.<h2>Why did Ukraine give up its nuclear arsenal?</h2>Even though the missiles were stationed on Ukrainian soil, it did not have operational control over them. Most of the missiles were ageing and unstable. Ukraine lacked the money and expertise to maintain them, and the memories from the recent Chernobyl disaster were fresh. Moreover, Russia retained the launch codes and control systems for the long-range missiles; Ukraine could only use the tactical ones. The international community had started pressuring Ukraine to give up that arsenal. Bill Clinton, who was then the President of the United States, offered Ukraine $175 million to disarm. The deal was lucrative for a newly formed Ukraine.&nbsp;In 1994, Ukraine made the unprecedented decision to relinquish its nuclear weapons under the Budapest memorandum, based on security assurances from Russia, the United States and the United Kingdom. Ukraine agreed to transfer all of its nuclear warheads to Russia in exchange for sovereignty and territorial integrity. It acceded to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. &nbsp;Between 1994 and 1996, Ukraine completed its disarmament.<h2>How did the gamble turn out?</h2>Not even 20 years had passed, Russia invaded Ukraine and annexed Crimea in 2014, which was a violation of the Budapest memorandum. In 2022, it launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which is growing intensely as of now. However, during the signing of the Budapest memorandum, Russia was concerned about the possible expansion of NATO to its border. In 2008, at the Bucharest Summit, NATO member states agreed that Ukraine would become a member and following the annexation of Crimea, it became almost certain. NATO has been actively supporting Ukraine in defending against the current invasion by Russia. Since the beginning of 2025, the Russian intensity of attack has increased with a persistent barrage of missiles and drones. The scenario now carries a situation of war fatigue and a potential division within its leadership and with its allies&nbsp;

Ukraine once possessed the third-largest nuclear arsenal on earth, but it decided to disarm and sign the nuclear non-proliferation treaty. But with the recent invasion of Russia, it seemed Ukraine's gamble had somewhat backfired.

Ukraine once held the third-largest nuclear arsenal on earth. It once had nearly 5,900 nuclear warheads, it was more than Britain, France, and China combined, only fewer than the US and Russia. There were 176 intercontinental missiles in underground silos that could have struck anywhere on the globe. It also had 44 strategic bombers, each was capable of launching nuclear missions. There were 1900 strategic warheads for long-range strike and 4000 tactical ones for battlefield strikes. How did Ukraine have such a huge nuclear arsenal? On December 26, 1991, the Cold War ended with the fall of the USSR. Along with it ended the decade-long ideological war between the East and the West. The fall of the USSR can be attributed to many reasons, from the failed attempt by Mikhail Gorbachev to rejuvenate the Russian stagnating economy, the movement for independence in Soviet Republics, to the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster. All led to a chaotic dissolution of the Soviet Republic and the birth of 18 different states. Ukraine was one of those 18 states. It did not build any nuclear weapons. Soviets had stationed them on the Ukrainian soil to target the West, and Ukraine inherited them. Why did Ukraine give up its nuclear arsenal? Even though the missiles were stationed on Ukrainian soil, it did not have operational control over them. Most of the missiles were ageing and unstable. Ukraine lacked the money and expertise to maintain them, and the memories from the recent Chernobyl disaster were fresh. Moreover, Russia retained the launch codes and control systems for the long-range missiles; Ukraine could only use the tactical ones. The international community had started pressuring Ukraine to give up that arsenal. Bill Clinton, who was then the President of the United States, offered Ukraine $175 million to disarm. The deal was lucrative for a newly formed Ukraine. In 1994, Ukraine made the unprecedented decision to relinquish its nuclear weapons under the Budapest memorandum, based on security assurances from Russia, the United States and the United Kingdom. Ukraine agreed to transfer all of its nuclear warheads to Russia in exchange for sovereignty and territorial integrity. It acceded to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. Between 1994 and 1996, Ukraine completed its disarmament. How did the gamble turn out? Not even 20 years had passed, Russia invaded Ukraine and annexed Crimea in 2014, which was a violation of the Budapest memorandum. In 2022, it launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which is growing intensely as of now. However, during the signing of the Budapest memorandum, Russia was concerned about the possible expansion of NATO to its border. In 2008, at the Bucharest Summit, NATO member states agreed that Ukraine would become a member and following the annexation of Crimea, it became almost certain. NATO has been actively supporting Ukraine in defending against the current invasion by Russia. Since the beginning of 2025, the Russian intensity of attack has increased with a persistent barrage of missiles and drones. The scenario now carries a situation of war fatigue and a potential division within its leadership and with its allies

Ukraine once possessed the third-largest nuclear arsenal on earth, it decided to disarm and sign the nuclear non-proliferation treaty. But with the recent invasion of Russia, it seemed Ukraine's gamble had somewhat backfired.

Ukraine's nuclear gamble- Why did Ukraine give up the third largest nuclear arsenal?

The capture of two North Korean soldiers by Ukrainian forces marks a significant moment in Russia&rsquo;s war against Ukraine. Their testimonies have been crucial in confirming details about these troops and Pyongyang that were previously only assumptions.
<h2>Russia's effort to hide North Korean soldiers</h2>
Russia has gone to great lengths to disguise the presence of 12,000 North Korean troops sent by North Korea to support its war on Ukraine. To maintain secrecy, the North Koreans were given Russian uniforms, weapons, and falsified military documents.
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They were even assigned Russian names, and most of them were 'born' in the Siberian republic of Tuva, where the population has Asian features. These troops were integrated into Russian marine and assault corps units and sent to the frontlines.
<h2>Pretence falls apart</h2>
This deception unravelled last week when Ukrainian forces captured two North Korean soldiers on the battlefield. Both were injured and later transported to Kyiv, where Ukraine&rsquo;s intelligence agency, the SBU, interrogated them with assistance from South Korea&rsquo;s national intelligence service.
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One of the captured soldiers, identified as 25-year-old Sergeant Lee Jong Nam from Pyongyang, joined the North Korean army in 2016. He served in a sniper reconnaissance platoon within the fifth battalion of the Democratic People&rsquo;s Republic of Korea (DPRK). His first combat assignment in Ukraine took place on 8 January, during which he sustained a jaw injury. 
Footage of the second soldier, whose identity remains unknown, was shared by President Volodymyr Zelensky. From his hospital bed, the soldier said that he was lying in the open for several days after being wounded in the leg. He said that the name on his Russian military ID was fabricated, saying, &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t remember it. It wasn&rsquo;t mine.&rdquo; He also thought he was participating in a training exercise.
<h2>Raised 'in an information vacuum'</h2>
Zelensky criticised Moscow for exploiting these soldiers, describing them as being raised in &ldquo;an information vacuum&rdquo; and used by Russia solely to prolong and escalate its war against Ukraine. The timing of their capture is significant, as Kyiv faces growing challenges, including Russia&rsquo;s advances in the east and uncertainty over potential changes in US foreign policy.
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Ukraine&rsquo;s military intelligence agency, HUR, alleges that the Kremlin is supplying Kim Jong Un&rsquo;s regime with torpedoes and drone technology. North Korea is also receiving Russian military intelligence, including satellite data and air-to-air missile systems.
Ukraine's military thinks the conflict serves as a training ground for North Korean soldiers. According to Major General Vadym Skybytskyi, HUR&rsquo;s deputy chief, told The Guardian&nbsp;that the North Korean troops are gaining valuable experience in modern warfare. He said they are learning from earlier mistakes by trial and error.&nbsp;
Mistakes as advancing in large groups across open fields are being corrected, and newer tactics are being adopted. Those who survive are expected to return to North Korea and share their combat knowledge as trainers. 
"To begin with, they advanced in large groups across snowy fields. The next lot won&rsquo;t do that. They are learning new tactics and how to fight in a drone environment," he said.
<h2>Motivated and determined</h2>
Speaking to The Guardian, Skybytskyi described the North Koreans as ideologically motivated and determined. Despite significant casualties, their morale remains high. Some soldiers have even resorted to dying by suicide to avoid capture. A recovered iPad belonging to a deceased North Korean soldier contained a huge amount of propaganda. &ldquo;My colleague reviewed it. After two hours, he said, &lsquo;North Korea is the best country in the world,&rsquo;&rdquo; Skybytskyi said.
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While some Ukrainian soldiers dismiss the North Koreans as ineffective fighters sent on suicide missions, others acknowledge their skills. One Ukrainian fighter, Ovcharenko, told The Guardian that North Koreans are often well-organised and competent shooters. &ldquo;The Russians hide when they see drones. The North Koreans try to shoot them down. They understand combined warfare with infantry, planes, and tanks,&rdquo; he said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Russia has gone to great lengths to disguise the presence of 12,000 North Korean troops sent by Pyongyang to support its war on Ukraine and given them Russian uniforms, weapons, and falsified military documents.

The capture of two North Korean soldiers by Ukrainian forces marks a significant moment in Russia’s war against Ukraine. Their testimonies have been crucial in confirming details about these troops and Pyongyang that were previously only assumptions. Russia's effort to hide North Korean soldiers Russia has gone to great lengths to disguise the presence of 12,000 North Korean troops sent by North Korea to support its war on Ukraine. To maintain secrecy, the North Koreans were given Russian uniforms, weapons, and falsified military documents. Also read: People's March LIVE updates: Protesters arrive in Washington DC They were even assigned Russian names, and most of them were 'born' in the Siberian republic of Tuva, where the population has Asian features. These troops were integrated into Russian marine and assault corps units and sent to the frontlines. Pretence falls apart This deception unravelled last week when Ukrainian forces captured two North Korean soldiers on the battlefield. Both were injured and later transported to Kyiv, where Ukraine’s intelligence agency, the SBU, interrogated them with assistance from South Korea’s national intelligence service. Also read: Rape-murder, protests and arrest: Here's how victim of RG Kar Medical College finally got justice One of the captured soldiers, identified as 25-year-old Sergeant Lee Jong Nam from Pyongyang, joined the North Korean army in 2016. He served in a sniper reconnaissance platoon within the fifth battalion of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). His first combat assignment in Ukraine took place on 8 January, during which he sustained a jaw injury. Footage of the second soldier, whose identity remains unknown, was shared by President Volodymyr Zelensky. From his hospital bed, the soldier said that he was lying in the open for several days after being wounded in the leg. He said that the name on his Russian military ID was fabricated, saying, “I don’t remember it. It wasn’t mine.” He also thought he was participating in a training exercise. Raised 'in an information vacuum' Zelensky criticised Moscow for exploiting these soldiers, describing them as being raised in “an information vacuum” and used by Russia solely to prolong and escalate its war against Ukraine. The timing of their capture is significant, as Kyiv faces growing challenges, including Russia’s advances in the east and uncertainty over potential changes in US foreign policy. Also read: From Zakaria Zubeidi to Ahmed Barghouti: 5 Prominent names among 737 Palestinian prisoners to be freed by Israel Ukraine’s military intelligence agency, HUR, alleges that the Kremlin is supplying Kim Jong Un’s regime with torpedoes and drone technology. North Korea is also receiving Russian military intelligence, including satellite data and air-to-air missile systems. Ukraine's military thinks the conflict serves as a training ground for North Korean soldiers. According to Major General Vadym Skybytskyi, HUR’s deputy chief, told The Guardian that the North Korean troops are gaining valuable experience in modern warfare. He said they are learning from earlier mistakes by trial and error. Mistakes as advancing in large groups across open fields are being corrected, and newer tactics are being adopted. Those who survive are expected to return to North Korea and share their combat knowledge as trainers. "To begin with, they advanced in large groups across snowy fields. The next lot won’t do that. They are learning new tactics and how to fight in a drone environment," he said. Motivated and determined Speaking to The Guardian, Skybytskyi described the North Koreans as ideologically motivated and determined. Despite significant casualties, their morale remains high. Some soldiers have even resorted to dying by suicide to avoid capture. A recovered iPad belonging to a deceased North Korean soldier contained a huge amount of propaganda. “My colleague reviewed it. After two hours, he said, ‘North Korea is the best country in the world,’” Skybytskyi said. Also read: Meet Sean Curran, Trump's pick for Secret Service chief who shielded him in rally attack? While some Ukrainian soldiers dismiss the North Koreans as ineffective fighters sent on suicide missions, others acknowledge their skills. One Ukrainian fighter, Ovcharenko, told The Guardian that North Koreans are often well-organised and competent shooters. “The Russians hide when they see drones. The North Koreans try to shoot them down. They understand combined warfare with infantry, planes, and tanks,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

'When Russians hide, North Koreans shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war

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