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<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed on Saturday (Dec 14) that Russia has started deploying North Korean soldiers to attack Ukraine’s positions in Russia’s Kursk region.</p>

<p>In his evening address, Zelensky said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them."</p>

<p>According to the Ukrainian president, these soldiers are being included in Russian units and used in operations in the Kursk region, where Ukraine has been carrying out incursions since August. He also suggested that North Korean troops “may be used in other parts of the front line” and added that “losses among this category are also already noticeable.”</p>

<p>Last month, Zelensky said that 11,000 North Korean troops were stationed in Russia’s Kursk region and had already suffered casualties. Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-president-yoon-impeached-what-happens-now-all-you-need-to-know-783957">South Korea President Yoon impeached: What happens now? All you need to know</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine replaces commander in Donetsk region</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukraine's military leadership has replaced the commander responsible for overseeing defence operations in the eastern Donetsk region, where Russian forces are advancing rapidly.</p>

<p>General Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, 54, has been appointed to lead the operational and tactical group in Donetsk, replacing General Oleksandr Lutsenko. An official from Ukraine’s general staff told news agency Reuters, that Lutsenko faced criticism from Ukrainian military bloggers and some lawmakers for failing to stop Russia’s steady advance towards the key city of Pokrovsk.</p>

<p>In another development, Ukrainian drones conducted several strikes inside Russia overnight into Saturday. A fuel storage site in the central Oryol region was hit, triggering a fire and shattering windows in nearby homes. Oryol’s governor, Andrei Klychkov, described it as a “mass attack” on an infrastructure facility.</p>

<p>The drone strikes came just a day after Russia launched a major aerial assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Zelensky reported that Russia had fired “93 missiles and more than 200 drones” during Friday’s attacks.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></p>


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed on Saturday (Dec 14) that Russia has started deploying North Korean soldiers to attack Ukraine’s positions in Russia’s Kursk region.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed on Saturday (Dec 14) that Russia has started deploying North Korean soldiers to attack Ukraine’s positions in Russia’s Kursk region. In his evening address, Zelensky said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them." According to the Ukrainian president, these soldiers are being included in Russian units and used in operations in the Kursk region, where Ukraine has been carrying out incursions since August. He also suggested that North Korean troops “may be used in other parts of the front line” and added that “losses among this category are also already noticeable.” Last month, Zelensky said that 11,000 North Korean troops were stationed in Russia’s Kursk region and had already suffered casualties. Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year. Also read: South Korea President Yoon impeached: What happens now? All you need to know Ukraine replaces commander in Donetsk region Meanwhile, Ukraine's military leadership has replaced the commander responsible for overseeing defence operations in the eastern Donetsk region, where Russian forces are advancing rapidly. General Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, 54, has been appointed to lead the operational and tactical group in Donetsk, replacing General Oleksandr Lutsenko. An official from Ukraine’s general staff told news agency Reuters, that Lutsenko faced criticism from Ukrainian military bloggers and some lawmakers for failing to stop Russia’s steady advance towards the key city of Pokrovsk. In another development, Ukrainian drones conducted several strikes inside Russia overnight into Saturday. A fuel storage site in the central Oryol region was hit, triggering a fire and shattering windows in nearby homes. Oryol’s governor, Andrei Klychkov, described it as a “mass attack” on an infrastructure facility. The drone strikes came just a day after Russia launched a major aerial assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Zelensky reported that Russia had fired “93 missiles and more than 200 drones” during Friday’s attacks. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukraine's Zelensky says Russia using 'noticeable' number of North Korean soldiers in Kursk assaults

<p><span class="region">Kyiv, Ukraine</span>
<p><meta content="uuid7Qa99TCPm3m4" name="uuid"/></p></p>
<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed on Saturday (Dec 14) that Russia has started deploying North Korean soldiers to attack Ukraine’s positions in Russia’s Kursk region.</p>
<p>In his evening address, Zelensky said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them."</p>
<p>According to the Ukrainian president, these soldiers are being included in Russian units and used in operations in the Kursk region, where Ukraine has been carrying out incursions since August. He also suggested that North Korean troops “may be used in other parts of the front line” and added that “losses among this category are also already noticeable.”</p>
<p>Last month, Zelensky said that 11,000 North Korean troops were stationed in Russia’s Kursk region and had already suffered casualties. Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-president-yoon-impeached-what-happens-now-all-you-need-to-know-783957">South Korea President Yoon impeached: What happens now? All you need to know</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>Ukraine replaces commander in Donetsk region</strong></h2>
<p>Meanwhile, Ukraine's military leadership has replaced the commander responsible for overseeing defence operations in the eastern Donetsk region, where Russian forces are advancing rapidly.</p>
<p>General Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, 54, has been appointed to lead the operational and tactical group in Donetsk, replacing General Oleksandr Lutsenko. An official from Ukraine’s general staff told news agency Reuters, that Lutsenko faced criticism from Ukrainian military bloggers and some lawmakers for failing to stop Russia’s steady advance towards the key city of Pokrovsk.</p>
<p>In another development, Ukrainian drones conducted several strikes inside Russia overnight into Saturday. A fuel storage site in the central Oryol region was hit, triggering a fire and shattering windows in nearby homes. Oryol’s governor, Andrei Klychkov, described it as a “mass attack” on an infrastructure facility.</p>
<p>The drone strikes came just a day after Russia launched a major aerial assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Zelensky reported that Russia had fired “93 missiles and more than 200 drones” during Friday’s attacks.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
<p><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></p>


In his evening address, Zelensky said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them."



Kyiv, Ukraine Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed on Saturday (Dec 14) that Russia has started deploying North Korean soldiers to attack Ukraine’s positions in Russia’s Kursk region. In his evening address, Zelensky said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them." According to the Ukrainian president, these soldiers are being included in Russian units and used in operations in the Kursk region, where Ukraine has been carrying out incursions since August. He also suggested that North Korean troops “may be used in other parts of the front line” and added that “losses among this category are also already noticeable.” Last month, Zelensky said that 11,000 North Korean troops were stationed in Russia’s Kursk region and had already suffered casualties. Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year. Also read: South Korea President Yoon impeached: What happens now? All you need to know Ukraine replaces commander in Donetsk region Meanwhile, Ukraine's military leadership has replaced the commander responsible for overseeing defence operations in the eastern Donetsk region, where Russian forces are advancing rapidly. General Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, 54, has been appointed to lead the operational and tactical group in Donetsk, replacing General Oleksandr Lutsenko. An official from Ukraine’s general staff told news agency Reuters, that Lutsenko faced criticism from Ukrainian military bloggers and some lawmakers for failing to stop Russia’s steady advance towards the key city of Pokrovsk. In another development, Ukrainian drones conducted several strikes inside Russia overnight into Saturday. A fuel storage site in the central Oryol region was hit, triggering a fire and shattering windows in nearby homes. Oryol’s governor, Andrei Klychkov, described it as a “mass attack” on an infrastructure facility. The drone strikes came just a day after Russia launched a major aerial assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Zelensky reported that Russia had fired “93 missiles and more than 200 drones” during Friday’s attacks. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

<p>The US, which hasn't sent a single boot to the ground while propping up Ukraine with military aid, now wants Ukrainians as young as 18 to fight the war against Russia.</p>

<p>The Joe Biden administration is urging Ukraine to lower the minimum age for conscription for Ukrainians to 18, according to US media reports.</p>

<p>This is taking place even as the US is planning to send more arms to Ukraine, worth $725 million.</p>

<p>President Volodymir Zelenskyy is meanwhile going to raise taxes for Urkainians in order to improve funding for the war.</p>

<p>Citing a senior US official, the Associated Press news agency reported on Wednesday (Nov 27)&nbsp;that the request to lower the draft age is being made so that Ukraine can increase the size of its military.</p>

<p>The current conscription age for Ukraine is 25.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Gravitas | Russia Ukraine War: Russia's Military Might Continues to Grow</strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The age-lowering request is part of last-minute efforts for Ukraine before Biden leaves office in January 2025.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new $725 million weapons package is another part of that effort, and will likely include land mines, drones, Stinger anti-air missiles, and Himars ammunition among other things, according to the AP report.</p>

<p>For context, the new military aid worth $725mn is far bigger than what Biden has so far spent using the PDA, or Presidential Drawdown Authority, for helping allies. A report in The Guardian noted that recent PDAs were between $125mn to $250mn.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, the US Congress had authorised up to $5 billion in PDA that Biden can use before Donald Trump takes over as president on 20 January, it noted.</p>

<p>Since the Russian operation started in 2022, the US has sent an estimated $56 bn in security aid to Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Trump had vowed to end the war. This is being seen as a sign that the Republicans&nbsp;would stop giving military aid to Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>Why is Ukraine being asked to send 18-year-olds to war?</strong></h2>

<p>The AP report cited the official as saying that the ground situation 'pure math' shows Ukraine simply needs more troops on the ground, noting that Kyiv is not mobilising or training enough troops in place of soldiers it had lost.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Russia is growing its troop strength, in addition to taking help from North Korea, which reportedly sent some 10,000 troops to help Moscow in the Ukraine war.</p>

<p>The White House assessment is that Ukraine has the required weapons, but not enough soldiers, unless it dramatically increases troop levels.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-considers-lowering-military-mobilisation-age-to-25-almost-two-years-into-war-with-russia-673603">Also read: Ukraine considers lowering military mobilisation age to 25, almost two years into war with Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier, White House National Security Council spokesman Sean Savett said the US administration believes 'manpower is the most vital need' of Ukraine now.</p>

<p>“We’re also ready to ramp up our training capacity if they take appropriate steps to fill out their ranks,” Savett said in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>The Ukraine troop situation: What's the reality?</strong></h2>

<p>As per Kyiv's estimates, Ukraine which has more than 1 million soldiers, needs 160,000 more, but the US thinks that's not enough.</p>

<p>The lack of troop presence might make it difficult for Ukraine to fight in the Kursk region, bordering Russia, in the US estimate.<br />
<br />
The Ukraine parliament passed a law to lower the age from 27 to 25 in April. Since then, thousands have gone into hiding to avoid the draft, according to reports.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-ukrainians-go-into-hiding-as-ukraine-expands-military-draft-report-734378"><strong>Also read: Thousands of Ukrainians go into hiding as Kyiv expands military draft: Report</strong></a><br />
<br />
Zelenskyy has often pushed back against lowering the age of conscription.</p>

<p>Domestic backlash and potential harm to Ukraine's economy could be part of the reasons.</p>

<p>There have often been reports of deserters and people going absent without leave.</p>

<p>So far, Ukraine has maintained that there's just not enough equipment to match the mobilisation.</p>

<p>The AP report cited a Ukrainian official who accused the West of trying to shift focus to draft age, away from their delays or late decisions in giving equipment.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The US, which hasn't sent a single boot to the ground while propping up Ukraine with military aid, now wants Ukrainians as young as 18 to fight the war against Russia.

The US, which hasn't sent a single boot to the ground while propping up Ukraine with military aid, now wants Ukrainians as young as 18 to fight the war against Russia. The Joe Biden administration is urging Ukraine to lower the minimum age for conscription for Ukrainians to 18, according to US media reports. This is taking place even as the US is planning to send more arms to Ukraine, worth $725 million. President Volodymir Zelenskyy is meanwhile going to raise taxes for Urkainians in order to improve funding for the war. Citing a senior US official, the Associated Press news agency reported on Wednesday (Nov 27) that the request to lower the draft age is being made so that Ukraine can increase the size of its military. The current conscription age for Ukraine is 25. Watch: Gravitas | Russia Ukraine War: Russia's Military Might Continues to Grow × The age-lowering request is part of last-minute efforts for Ukraine before Biden leaves office in January 2025. The new $725 million weapons package is another part of that effort, and will likely include land mines, drones, Stinger anti-air missiles, and Himars ammunition among other things, according to the AP report. For context, the new military aid worth $725mn is far bigger than what Biden has so far spent using the PDA, or Presidential Drawdown Authority, for helping allies. A report in The Guardian noted that recent PDAs were between $125mn to $250mn. So far, the US Congress had authorised up to $5 billion in PDA that Biden can use before Donald Trump takes over as president on 20 January, it noted. Since the Russian operation started in 2022, the US has sent an estimated $56 bn in security aid to Russia. Trump had vowed to end the war. This is being seen as a sign that the Republicans would stop giving military aid to Ukraine. Why is Ukraine being asked to send 18-year-olds to war? The AP report cited the official as saying that the ground situation 'pure math' shows Ukraine simply needs more troops on the ground, noting that Kyiv is not mobilising or training enough troops in place of soldiers it had lost. Meanwhile, Russia is growing its troop strength, in addition to taking help from North Korea, which reportedly sent some 10,000 troops to help Moscow in the Ukraine war. The White House assessment is that Ukraine has the required weapons, but not enough soldiers, unless it dramatically increases troop levels. Also read: Ukraine considers lowering military mobilisation age to 25, almost two years into war with Russia Earlier, White House National Security Council spokesman Sean Savett said the US administration believes 'manpower is the most vital need' of Ukraine now. “We’re also ready to ramp up our training capacity if they take appropriate steps to fill out their ranks,” Savett said in a statement. The Ukraine troop situation: What's the reality? As per Kyiv's estimates, Ukraine which has more than 1 million soldiers, needs 160,000 more, but the US thinks that's not enough. The lack of troop presence might make it difficult for Ukraine to fight in the Kursk region, bordering Russia, in the US estimate. The Ukraine parliament passed a law to lower the age from 27 to 25 in April. Since then, thousands have gone into hiding to avoid the draft, according to reports. Also read: Thousands of Ukrainians go into hiding as Kyiv expands military draft: Report Zelenskyy has often pushed back against lowering the age of conscription. Domestic backlash and potential harm to Ukraine's economy could be part of the reasons. There have often been reports of deserters and people going absent without leave. So far, Ukraine has maintained that there's just not enough equipment to match the mobilisation. The AP report cited a Ukrainian official who accused the West of trying to shift focus to draft age, away from their delays or late decisions in giving equipment. (With inputs from agencies)

US now wants Ukrainians as young as 18 to fight war with Russia because...

At the 2024 BRICS Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in addressing global challenges. He urged member nations to collaborate on issues such as trade, security, and sustainable development, highlighting the need for a unified approach to foster stability and growth. Modi's call reflects India's commitment to strengthening multilateral cooperation within the BRICS framework.

BREAKING: PM Modi Calls For Dialogue and Diplomacy At BRICS Summit 2024

<p>Russia and Ukraine have released a total of 190 captured soldiers in the latest prisoner exchange between the two countries, officials in Moscow and Kyiv announced on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Thousands of POWs have been freed in more than 50 individual exchanges throughout the war -- an area where the two sides have been able to strike rare agreements since Russia invaded in February 2022.</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russia's defence ministry on Wednesday each said that 95 of their soldiers had been freed.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-exchange-150-prisoners-after-uae-brokered-deal-727558">Russia, Ukraine exchange 150 prisoners after UAE-brokered deal</a></strong></p>

<p>"We continue to bring our people home. Another 95 defenders have been released from Russian captivity," Zelensky said in a post on Telegram.</p>

<p>He said the exchange was mediated by the United Arab Emirates.</p>

<p>"As a result of a negotiation process, 95 Russian servicemen... have been returned," Russia's defence ministry said on Telegram.</p>

<p>The ministry shared video images of the freed Russian soldiers smiling and chanting "Glory to Russia" as they were transported by bus to an undisclosed location.</p>

<p>Russian Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova shared a video in which the soldiers, interviewed by Russian officials, said they felt well and did not complain of any health problems.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia &amp; Ukraine exchange 90 prisoners of war</strong></p>

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<p>In June, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that 1,348 Russian soldiers were being held in Ukrainian captivity, and that Russia had detained 6,465 Ukrainian POWs.</p>

<p>Exchanges have taken place sporadically throughout the conflict.</p>

<p>In a rare instance of direct talks between officials from Moscow and Kyiv, Moskalkova said her office met with a counterpart from Ukraine at the exchange.</p>

<p>The first such meeting took place at an exchange in June, Ukraine's human rights commissioner Dmytro Lubinets told AFP at the time.</p>

<p>The officials discussed "joint humanitarian actions, including those related to the reunification of families", Moskalkova said.</p>

<p>Kyiv accuses Russia of having forcibly deported thousands of Ukrainian children from territory that came under Moscow's control, and is working to secure their return.</p>

<p>Moscow says children were moved for their own protection.</p>

<p>Several have been returned, including through deals brokered by Qatar.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Russia and Ukraine have released a total of 190 captured soldiers in the latest prisoner exchange between the two countries, officials in Moscow and Kyiv announced on Wednesday.

Russia and Ukraine have released a total of 190 captured soldiers in the latest prisoner exchange between the two countries, officials in Moscow and Kyiv announced on Wednesday. Thousands of POWs have been freed in more than 50 individual exchanges throughout the war -- an area where the two sides have been able to strike rare agreements since Russia invaded in February 2022. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russia's defence ministry on Wednesday each said that 95 of their soldiers had been freed. Also read | Russia, Ukraine exchange 150 prisoners after UAE-brokered deal "We continue to bring our people home. Another 95 defenders have been released from Russian captivity," Zelensky said in a post on Telegram. He said the exchange was mediated by the United Arab Emirates. "As a result of a negotiation process, 95 Russian servicemen... have been returned," Russia's defence ministry said on Telegram. The ministry shared video images of the freed Russian soldiers smiling and chanting "Glory to Russia" as they were transported by bus to an undisclosed location. Russian Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova shared a video in which the soldiers, interviewed by Russian officials, said they felt well and did not complain of any health problems. Also watch | Russia & Ukraine exchange 90 prisoners of war × In June, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that 1,348 Russian soldiers were being held in Ukrainian captivity, and that Russia had detained 6,465 Ukrainian POWs. Exchanges have taken place sporadically throughout the conflict. In a rare instance of direct talks between officials from Moscow and Kyiv, Moskalkova said her office met with a counterpart from Ukraine at the exchange. The first such meeting took place at an exchange in June, Ukraine's human rights commissioner Dmytro Lubinets told AFP at the time. The officials discussed "joint humanitarian actions, including those related to the reunification of families", Moskalkova said. Kyiv accuses Russia of having forcibly deported thousands of Ukrainian children from territory that came under Moscow's control, and is working to secure their return. Moscow says children were moved for their own protection. Several have been returned, including through deals brokered by Qatar. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Russia and Ukraine conduct third prisoner exchange in recent months

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy replaced the commander of his special forces on Thursday, the second time in half a year that he has changed the head of the unit which operates in Moscow-occupied territories.</p>

<p>The dismissal of Colonel Serhiy Lupanchuk and appointment of Brigadier General Oleksandr Trepak in his place was announced in two decrees on the president's website that provided no explanation for the move.</p>

<p>Since 2014, Trepak has been actively participating in defence operations in east Ukraine against Russian-backed separatists. He was engaged in leading the push to repel the Russian assault on Donetsk airport, one of the biggest operations back then.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian military's chain of command has been changed at different levels since February when Zelenskiy replaced his top commander, Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, with then-ground forces commander Oleksandr Syrskyi in a major shake up.</p>

<p>At the time, Zelenskiy said a new military leadership was taking control of the armed forces and promised to "reboot" the system by bringing in experienced commanders who understood the daily needs of the troops.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-it-foiled-a-russian-plot-to-assassinate-president-zelensky-719010" hreflang="en">Ukraine says foiled Russian plot to assassinate President Zelensky, two colonels detained</a></strong></p>

<p>The shakeup came at an uncertain time for Ukraine with Russian troops beginning to advance in the east, taking advantage of shortages of Ukrainian manpower at the front as well as dwindling stocks of artillery shells.</p>

<p>In a separate decree on Thursday, Zelenskiy also reappointed Dmytro Hereha as commander of the army's support forces, a post he was dismissed from without any explanation in March.</p>

<p>Lupanchuk was appointed to lead the special forces last November following the sudden dismissal of his predecessor Viktor Horenko.</p>

<p>Horenko's dismissal was seen at the time as a sign of a growing rift between Zelenskiy and his then top commander who was fired months later.</p>

<p>The special forces do not have a public profile, but are thought to have been involved in Ukraine's most ambitious operations in Russian-held areas and in particular the peninsula of Crimea.</p>


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy replaced the commander of his special forces on Thursday, the second time in half a year that he has changed the head of the unit which operates in Moscow-occupied territories.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy replaced the commander of his special forces on Thursday, the second time in half a year that he has changed the head of the unit which operates in Moscow-occupied territories. The dismissal of Colonel Serhiy Lupanchuk and appointment of Brigadier General Oleksandr Trepak in his place was announced in two decrees on the president's website that provided no explanation for the move. Since 2014, Trepak has been actively participating in defence operations in east Ukraine against Russian-backed separatists. He was engaged in leading the push to repel the Russian assault on Donetsk airport, one of the biggest operations back then. The Ukrainian military's chain of command has been changed at different levels since February when Zelenskiy replaced his top commander, Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, with then-ground forces commander Oleksandr Syrskyi in a major shake up. At the time, Zelenskiy said a new military leadership was taking control of the armed forces and promised to "reboot" the system by bringing in experienced commanders who understood the daily needs of the troops. Also read: Ukraine says foiled Russian plot to assassinate President Zelensky, two colonels detained The shakeup came at an uncertain time for Ukraine with Russian troops beginning to advance in the east, taking advantage of shortages of Ukrainian manpower at the front as well as dwindling stocks of artillery shells. In a separate decree on Thursday, Zelenskiy also reappointed Dmytro Hereha as commander of the army's support forces, a post he was dismissed from without any explanation in March. Lupanchuk was appointed to lead the special forces last November following the sudden dismissal of his predecessor Viktor Horenko. Horenko's dismissal was seen at the time as a sign of a growing rift between Zelenskiy and his then top commander who was fired months later. The special forces do not have a public profile, but are thought to have been involved in Ukraine's most ambitious operations in Russian-held areas and in particular the peninsula of Crimea.

Zelenskiy replaces special operations chief for second time in six months

While the former Ukrainian Commander in Chief slated to become the country's Ambassador in London has been suspiciously absent from the public eye. General Valeriy Zaluzhnyi has not been seen in recent weeks. Watch in for more details!

Ukraine | What happened to Ukraine's General Valerii Zaluzhny ?

<p>The Kremlin has made clear that Russia has not abandoned a moratorium on nuclear testing. It also dismissed a suggestion by the editor of a state-backed channel that Russia should stage a thermonuclear explosion in Siberia to send a strong message to the West.</p>

<p>Reacting to the remarks by Margarita Simonyan, the editor-in-chief of state-funded broadcaster RT, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia has not left the regime of abandoning nuclear tests.</p>

<p>"I don't think such discussions are possible now from an official point of view," Peskov said, adding that Simonyan's words did not "always" reflect Moscow's official position.</p>

<h2><strong>Remarks by the chief editor of RT</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, Simonyan said that the crisis in Ukraine was fast moving towards a nuclear Armageddon and West’s provocation won’t stop until Russia sent a clear message.</p>

<p>"A nuclear ultimatum is becoming more and more imminent and more and more impossible to avoid," Simonyan said. "They will not backpedal unless it is painful for them," she added.</p>

<p>Russia boasts the world’s largest nuclear stockpile, and its leader Vladimir Putin has repeatedly cautioned the West that any attack on Russia could trigger a nuclear retaliation.</p>

<h2><strong>When did the nuclear race begin?</strong></h2>

<p>In July 1945, the United States initiated the nuclear race with a 20-kiloton atomic bomb test in Alamogordo, New Mexico.</p>

<p>In August of the same year, atomic bombs were dropped on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, marking the conclusion of World War Two.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia 'punishment battalions': Who are Storm-Z troopers? | World News</strong></p>

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<p>Just four years later, in August 1949, the Soviet Union stunned the Western world by detonating its first nuclear bomb.</p>

<p>During the five decades spanning from 1945 to the signing of the 1996 Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty, more than 2,000 nuclear tests were carried out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Of these, 1,032 were conducted by the United States, and 715 were carried out by the Soviet Union, as reported by the United Nations.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-storm-z-squads-tale-of-hundreds-of-offenders-sent-to-frontlines-to-fight-ukraine-642148"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia`s `Storm-Z` squads: Tale of hundreds of offenders sent to frontlines to fight Ukraine</strong></a></p>

<p>In February, Putin suspended Russia's participation in the New START treaty, which was the last significant arms control agreement between Russia and the United States. He also warned that if the United States resumed nuclear testing, Russia would follow suit.</p>

<p>Recent reports from The New York Times, although unconfirmed, claim that satellite imagery and aviation data indicate Russia may be preparing to test an experimental nuclear-powered cruise missile or may have already conducted such a test.</p>

<p>Russia obviously denies such claims.</p>

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The Kremlin has made clear that Russia has not abandoned a moratorium on nuclear testing. It also dismissed a suggestion by the editor of a state-backed channel that Russia should stage a thermonuclear explosion in Siberia to send a strong message to the West.

The Kremlin has made clear that Russia has not abandoned a moratorium on nuclear testing. It also dismissed a suggestion by the editor of a state-backed channel that Russia should stage a thermonuclear explosion in Siberia to send a strong message to the West. Reacting to the remarks by Margarita Simonyan, the editor-in-chief of state-funded broadcaster RT, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia has not left the regime of abandoning nuclear tests. "I don't think such discussions are possible now from an official point of view," Peskov said, adding that Simonyan's words did not "always" reflect Moscow's official position. Remarks by the chief editor of RT Earlier, Simonyan said that the crisis in Ukraine was fast moving towards a nuclear Armageddon and West’s provocation won’t stop until Russia sent a clear message. "A nuclear ultimatum is becoming more and more imminent and more and more impossible to avoid," Simonyan said. "They will not backpedal unless it is painful for them," she added. Russia boasts the world’s largest nuclear stockpile, and its leader Vladimir Putin has repeatedly cautioned the West that any attack on Russia could trigger a nuclear retaliation. When did the nuclear race begin? In July 1945, the United States initiated the nuclear race with a 20-kiloton atomic bomb test in Alamogordo, New Mexico. In August of the same year, atomic bombs were dropped on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, marking the conclusion of World War Two. Watch: Russia 'punishment battalions': Who are Storm-Z troopers? | World News × Just four years later, in August 1949, the Soviet Union stunned the Western world by detonating its first nuclear bomb. During the five decades spanning from 1945 to the signing of the 1996 Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty, more than 2,000 nuclear tests were carried out. Of these, 1,032 were conducted by the United States, and 715 were carried out by the Soviet Union, as reported by the United Nations. Also read: Russia`s `Storm-Z` squads: Tale of hundreds of offenders sent to frontlines to fight Ukraine In February, Putin suspended Russia's participation in the New START treaty, which was the last significant arms control agreement between Russia and the United States. He also warned that if the United States resumed nuclear testing, Russia would follow suit. Recent reports from The New York Times, although unconfirmed, claim that satellite imagery and aviation data indicate Russia may be preparing to test an experimental nuclear-powered cruise missile or may have already conducted such a test. Russia obviously denies such claims. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Kremlin clarifies Russia still adheres to nuclear moratorium, dismissing remarks by RT chief

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has fired chiefs of all local military recruitment centres amid corruption allegations.</p>

<p>Zelensky on Friday (August 11) said a review of Ukraine’s military recruitment centres revealed signs of massive abuse of power, including taking bribes to let military-age men cross the border despite a wartime ban.</p>

<p>In a statement issued on Friday, Zelensky said, “This system should be run by people who know exactly what war is and why cynicism and bribery during war is treason," an awakening that seems to have hit him 18 months into the war.</p>

<h2><strong>Filling vacancies now topmost priority</strong></h2>

<p>It was not known how many officials were fired but Zelensky instructed his top general Valery Zaluzhny to fill vacancies as soon as possible and implement the decisions.</p>

<p>Also, new candidates for the posts will be first vetted by Ukrainian intelligence agency SBU, to keep Russian moles at bay.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | Ukraine war: The battle reaches the skies &amp; the seas</strong></p>

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<p>The embattled president of Ukraine has made tackling graft the topmost priority as the country’s counteroffensive against Russia falters.</p>

<p>The move is also aimed at pleasing officials in US and Europe as they debate whether or not the warring nation should be admitted into NATO and the European Union (EU).</p>

<h2><strong>Move comes amidst faltering counteroffensive</strong></h2>

<p>Over the course of 18 months since Russia's invasion, Ukrainians have primarily maintained a defensive stance, thwarting Moscow's attempts to capture additional territories.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, this summer, Ukraine decided to take the offensive way, aided by substantial Western military support. Ukraine attempted to reclaim the eastern and southern regions previously seized by the Russians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite this, a glance at a comprehensive map of these areas indicates minimal change during the two months of the counter-offensive.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-minister-vows-to-go-after-army-commanders-accused-of-sexual-harassment-624483"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Ukraine minister vows to go after army commanders accused of sexual harassment</strong></a></p>

<p>Currently, Russia continues to occupy nearly one-fifth of Ukraine, which includes strategic cities like Donetsk in the east and Mariupol, captured after a prolonged siege.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Their forces remain deeply entrenched. Notably, the situation has remained relatively static since November 2022, when Ukraine last made significant gains by reclaiming Kherson in the south along with substantial portions of the northeast.</p>

<h2><strong>Silver lining for Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>But Ukraine has reported small successes too, including the retaking of Staromaiorske village in Donetsk, as reported by BBC.</p>

<p>The village lies in the eastern region near Bakhmut, where fierce clashes have occurred.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, Ukraine has managed to regain control over some small areas previously lost earlier in the summer.</p>

<p>Additional progress has been made in the Zaporizhzhia region to the south, a crucial area where Ukraine's decisive efforts are essential.</p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has fired chiefs of all local military recruitment centres amid corruption allegations. Zelensky on Friday (August 11) said a review of Ukraine’s military recruitment centres revealed signs of massive abuse of power, including taking bribes to let military-age men cross the border despite a wartime ban.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has fired chiefs of all local military recruitment centres amid corruption allegations. Zelensky on Friday (August 11) said a review of Ukraine’s military recruitment centres revealed signs of massive abuse of power, including taking bribes to let military-age men cross the border despite a wartime ban. In a statement issued on Friday, Zelensky said, “This system should be run by people who know exactly what war is and why cynicism and bribery during war is treason," an awakening that seems to have hit him 18 months into the war. Filling vacancies now topmost priority It was not known how many officials were fired but Zelensky instructed his top general Valery Zaluzhny to fill vacancies as soon as possible and implement the decisions. Also, new candidates for the posts will be first vetted by Ukrainian intelligence agency SBU, to keep Russian moles at bay. Watch: Gravitas | Ukraine war: The battle reaches the skies & the seas × The embattled president of Ukraine has made tackling graft the topmost priority as the country’s counteroffensive against Russia falters. The move is also aimed at pleasing officials in US and Europe as they debate whether or not the warring nation should be admitted into NATO and the European Union (EU). Move comes amidst faltering counteroffensive Over the course of 18 months since Russia's invasion, Ukrainians have primarily maintained a defensive stance, thwarting Moscow's attempts to capture additional territories. However, this summer, Ukraine decided to take the offensive way, aided by substantial Western military support. Ukraine attempted to reclaim the eastern and southern regions previously seized by the Russians. Despite this, a glance at a comprehensive map of these areas indicates minimal change during the two months of the counter-offensive. Also read: Ukraine minister vows to go after army commanders accused of sexual harassment Currently, Russia continues to occupy nearly one-fifth of Ukraine, which includes strategic cities like Donetsk in the east and Mariupol, captured after a prolonged siege. Their forces remain deeply entrenched. Notably, the situation has remained relatively static since November 2022, when Ukraine last made significant gains by reclaiming Kherson in the south along with substantial portions of the northeast. Silver lining for Ukraine But Ukraine has reported small successes too, including the retaking of Staromaiorske village in Donetsk, as reported by BBC. The village lies in the eastern region near Bakhmut, where fierce clashes have occurred. Additionally, Ukraine has managed to regain control over some small areas previously lost earlier in the summer. Additional progress has been made in the Zaporizhzhia region to the south, a crucial area where Ukraine's decisive efforts are essential. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine fires chiefs of local military recruitment centres amid corruption allegations

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday dismissed the order on a ceasefire by Russian President Vladimir Putin calling it as 'hypocrisy'. Watch this video to know more.

Ukraine rejects Putin’s Christmas ceasefire, calls it 'Hypocrisy'

Ukraine rejects Russian truce order as U.S. and Germany sends combat vehicles

There are no clear winners. Both Moscow & Kyiv keep making claims & counterclaims of having the upper hand. But in the fog of war, nothing can be seen clearly. Watch this video to know more.

Russia-Ukraine war: Who is winning in the air?

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky received thunderous applause as he presented the blue and yellow Ukrainian flag to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Kamala Harris.

Zelensky presents Ukraine battle flag to U.S. Congress

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday that the country's air defence systems had shot down 13 Iranian-made kamikaze drones that targeted the capital Kyiv earlier in the day.

Ukraine shot down 13 kamikaze drones in Kyiv attack: Zelensky

Russia has once again reigned long-range missiles targeting Ukrainian cities. At least four people have been killed several homes destroyed in the country's Southeast.

Russia-Ukraine War: At least four killed in Russian strikes

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that the country is switching to emergency shutdowns to stabilise its power grid after fresh Russian missile attacks. Now the questions is, How far are the two sides from negotiations?

Russia-Ukraine War: How far are the two sides from negotiations?

As Russian missile strikes continue to damage energy infrastructure across Ukraine, with rising concerns that the winter season will be difficult for the people who are living in war-hit zones. The West has claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin wants "to use winter as a weapon of war" in the ongoing war in Ukraine, which led to massive food and fuel crisis globally.

NATO accuses Putin of using cold as 'weapon of war'

In a surprise move,the United States which has not fallen short of its support for Ukraine even once has called out Kyiv for alleged war crimes. Washington has further said that laws of war apply to all parties equally.

Russia-Ukraine War: Laws of war apply to all parties equally, says Washington

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

Ukraine rolls first passenger train into newly freed Kherson

Ukrainian residents welcomed troops arriving in the center of Kherson on Friday after Russia abandoned the only regional capital it had captured. Watch the full video to know more

Russia-Ukraine War: Locals welcome Ukraine soldiers in Kherson

As temperatures drop below freezing in eastern Ukraine, people are preparing for harshest winter in decades. Watch full video to know more.

Ukrainians prepare for harsh wartime winter

In a bittersweet moment, children in Kyiv, including evacuees from other parts of the country are seen decorating traditional Ukrainian Easter eggs with a stroke of patriotism.

How Ukrainian Children are marking Easter?

A semi-professional female soccer team which fled war in Ukraine has found a new training ground and shelter at the German Bundesliga club- 1. FC Cologne.

Ukrainian Female Footballers have found a new training ground

Seven refugee bears from Kyiv were getting used to their new home in the western city of Lviv on March 8, after enduring a 24 hour non-stop journey to safety.

Bears rescued from Russian Invasion

Beyond conventional wisdom, more than the loss of finance, strategy, and economy, there lies a much deeper, often immeasurable - the human cost of war.

Ukraine-Russia Conflict: The Human Cost Of War

The devastation that Ukraine is facing has sparked a new debate among Americans, with many claiming that if the embattled Ukrainians were privy to guns they could've defended their country better. Let's take a look at what's being said.

USA debates: Could Ukrainians have defended their country better if they owned more guns?

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 'sabotage groups' have entered Kyiv, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky warns in a video address to the nation. Zelensky says "the enemy's sabotage groups have entered Kyiv," and urged residents to be vigilant and observe curfew rules. #ukraine #russia #ukraineconflict #invasion

‘We are not afraid’: Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenksy’s message amid Russia’s assault

Western leaders are stepping up pressure on Moscow ahead of the security talks with Russia. The top American diplomat Antony Blinken has said that the upcoming dialogue will not succeed so long as a gun is pointed towards Ukraine's head.

Antony Blinken: No progress with a gun to Ukraine's head

People across Ukraine, including President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, have marked the 35th anniversary of the 1986 Chernobyl disaster, the world's worst civilian nuclear accident.

Ukraine marks 35th anniversary of Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster

US has now issued warning to Russia over its troop build-up. United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken has warned Russia of consequences if it escalates tensions on the Ukrainian border.

'There will be consequences', Antony Blinken warns Russia

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Kremlin clarifies Russia still adheres to nuclear moratorium, dismissing remarks by RT chief

Ukraine fires chiefs of local military recruitment centres amid corruption allegations

Ukraine rejects Putin’s Christmas ceasefire, calls it 'Hypocrisy'

Ukraine rejects Russian truce order as U.S. and Germany sends combat vehicles

Russia-Ukraine war: Who is winning in the air?

Zelensky presents Ukraine battle flag to U.S. Congress

Ukraine shot down 13 kamikaze drones in Kyiv attack: Zelensky

Russia-Ukraine War: At least four killed in Russian strikes

Russia-Ukraine War: How far are the two sides from negotiations?

NATO accuses Putin of using cold as 'weapon of war'

Russia-Ukraine War: Laws of war apply to all parties equally, says Washington

Ukraine rolls first passenger train into newly freed Kherson

Russia-Ukraine War: Locals welcome Ukraine soldiers in Kherson

Ukrainians prepare for harsh wartime winter

How Ukrainian Children are marking Easter?

Ukrainian Female Footballers have found a new training ground

Bears rescued from Russian Invasion

Ukraine-Russia Conflict: The Human Cost Of War

USA debates: Could Ukrainians have defended their country better if they owned more guns?