Wearing a camouflage T-shirt that clings to his biceps, Brazilian policeman Saulo packs his bag with combat boots, camping gear, gun holsters and a knife -- "just the essential" to go&nbsp;fight&nbsp;in&nbsp;Ukraine.

The 35-year-old Sao Paulo man quit his job as a military police officer to travel more than 11,000 kilometers (nearly 7,000 miles) and&nbsp;join&nbsp;Ukraine's&nbsp;fight&nbsp;against the Russian invasion.

"I identify with the cause, with the Ukrainian people who are suffering the injustice of a foreign aggressor," said Saulo, who asked that his last name not be used for security reasons.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/refrain-from-publishing-russia-warns-media-says-dont-report-interview-with-zelensky-466209">'Refrain from publishing': Russia warns media, says don't report interview with Zelensky</a>

"And I want to help avoid World War III," he told AFP, laying the items on his short packing list out on his bed alongside his black duffel bag.

Picking up a small Brazilian flag, he added it to the pile.

Although President Jair Bolsonaro has said Brazil will remain "neutral" over the conflict -- drawing criticism in some quarters -- hundreds of&nbsp;Brazilians&nbsp;have taken steps to go&nbsp;fight&nbsp;in&nbsp;Ukraine.

They are looking to&nbsp;join&nbsp;the 20,000 volunteers from more than 50 countries who have applied to&nbsp;join&nbsp;the International Legion of Defense of&nbsp;Ukraine, a corps launched to help fend off the invasion, according to figures from the Ukrainian foreign ministry.

Saulo said good-bye to his partner and two children and left Wednesday for Poland, where&nbsp;Brazilians&nbsp;already on the ground have promised to help him&nbsp;join&nbsp;the war.

He bought the one-way ticket with his own money.

Saulo said he made his decision after seeing images from&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;of bombed-out residential buildings and hospitals. That convinced him to answer President Volodymyr Zelensky's appeal to&nbsp;join&nbsp;the new foreign legion and&nbsp;fight&nbsp;"elbow to elbow" with the Ukrainian army.

"There's a risk I won't come back. Anyone who goes over there knows that. We're not little kids," said Saulo, who sports a tattoo of a big black skull on his right arm, a knife clutched in its teeth.

His only fear, he said, is the conflict "erupting into nuclear war."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazilian-company-using-proceeds-acquired-by-selling-nfts-to-preserve-amazon-rainforest-465996">Brazilian company using proceeds acquired by selling NFTs to preserve Amazon rainforest</a>

&nbsp;Defending a foreign country&nbsp;

The Ukrainian foreign legion's only requirement to&nbsp;join&nbsp;is military or firearms experience, according to representatives of the website fightforua.org, which is helping organize the effort.

Other webpages set up for&nbsp;Brazilians&nbsp;rallying to the cause have hundreds of members, such as Portuguese-language Facebook group "Volunteers to&nbsp;Fight&nbsp;in&nbsp;Ukraine," with 1,800.

The site is a forum for would-be volunteers to swap information -- though members told AFP they limited their interactions, fearing Russian spies could be watching.

One would-be volunteer, Guilherme -- his name was changed for safety reasons -- said he saw going to the front as a way to make a fresh start in life.

The 29-year-old formerly served in the Brazilian army and the French Foreign Legion, then worked as a private security guard in Rio de Janeiro, but is now unemployed.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-conflict-with-russia-intensifies-mourners-defy-missile-threats-to-attend-ukrainian-military-funerals-466200">&nbsp;As conflict with Russia intensifies, mourners defy missile threats to attend Ukrainian military funerals</a>

"Things are hard here in Brazil," he said.

"Helping in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;is an opportunity.... We have to think about what we can do to help others in this world, and not just say 'That's not my war,' because the world's ending."

Open arms

Ukraine's consul in Sao Paulo, Jorge Rybka, said would-be volunteers receive "no assistance of any kind" from the Ukrainian government.

Brazil's foreign ministry meanwhile said it "emphatically discourages" people from traveling to&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;given the security situation.

That did not stop Brazilian military veteran Leandro Galvao, who is already on the ground in the suburbs of Kyiv, where he carries out patrol and civilian rescue operations alongside the Ukrainian army.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-police-probe-education-ministry-graft-allegations-source-says-465625">Brazil police probes education ministry's graft allegations</a>

Galvao, 49, came from Estonia, where he lives, to "defend democracy," he told AFP.

"Ever since I joined the Ukrainian army, I'm part of this nation, and I'll defend it to the end," said the Sao Paulo native, who has two children.

Foreign fighters, he said, "are welcomed here with open arms, with happiness and thanks."

Watch |&nbsp;'Ready to go for neutrality, non-nuclear status,' says Ukrainian president Zelensky

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ready-to-go-for-neutrality-non-nuclear-status-says-ukrainian-president-zelensky-466211/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Wearing a camouflage T-shirt that clings to his biceps, Brazilian policeman Saulo packs his bag with combat boots, camping gear, gun holsters and a knife -- "just the essential" to go fight in Ukraine.

Wearing a camouflage T-shirt that clings to his biceps, Brazilian policeman Saulo packs his bag with combat boots, camping gear, gun holsters and a knife -- "just the essential" to go fight in Ukraine. The 35-year-old Sao Paulo man quit his job as a military police officer to travel more than 11,000 kilometers (nearly 7,000 miles) and join Ukraine's fight against the Russian invasion. "I identify with the cause, with the Ukrainian people who are suffering the injustice of a foreign aggressor," said Saulo, who asked that his last name not be used for security reasons. Also read | 'Refrain from publishing': Russia warns media, says don't report interview with Zelensky "And I want to help avoid World War III," he told AFP, laying the items on his short packing list out on his bed alongside his black duffel bag. Picking up a small Brazilian flag, he added it to the pile. Although President Jair Bolsonaro has said Brazil will remain "neutral" over the conflict -- drawing criticism in some quarters -- hundreds of Brazilians have taken steps to go fight in Ukraine. They are looking to join the 20,000 volunteers from more than 50 countries who have applied to join the International Legion of Defense of Ukraine, a corps launched to help fend off the invasion, according to figures from the Ukrainian foreign ministry. Saulo said good-bye to his partner and two children and left Wednesday for Poland, where Brazilians already on the ground have promised to help him join the war. He bought the one-way ticket with his own money. Saulo said he made his decision after seeing images from Ukraine of bombed-out residential buildings and hospitals. That convinced him to answer President Volodymyr Zelensky's appeal to join the new foreign legion and fight "elbow to elbow" with the Ukrainian army. "There's a risk I won't come back. Anyone who goes over there knows that. We're not little kids," said Saulo, who sports a tattoo of a big black skull on his right arm, a knife clutched in its teeth. His only fear, he said, is the conflict "erupting into nuclear war." Also read | Brazilian company using proceeds acquired by selling NFTs to preserve Amazon rainforest Defending a foreign country The Ukrainian foreign legion's only requirement to join is military or firearms experience, according to representatives of the website fightforua.org, which is helping organize the effort. Other webpages set up for Brazilians rallying to the cause have hundreds of members, such as Portuguese-language Facebook group "Volunteers to Fight in Ukraine," with 1,800. The site is a forum for would-be volunteers to swap information -- though members told AFP they limited their interactions, fearing Russian spies could be watching. One would-be volunteer, Guilherme -- his name was changed for safety reasons -- said he saw going to the front as a way to make a fresh start in life. The 29-year-old formerly served in the Brazilian army and the French Foreign Legion, then worked as a private security guard in Rio de Janeiro, but is now unemployed. Also read | As conflict with Russia intensifies, mourners defy missile threats to attend Ukrainian military funerals "Things are hard here in Brazil," he said. "Helping in Ukraine is an opportunity.... We have to think about what we can do to help others in this world, and not just say 'That's not my war,' because the world's ending." Open arms Ukraine's consul in Sao Paulo, Jorge Rybka, said would-be volunteers receive "no assistance of any kind" from the Ukrainian government. Brazil's foreign ministry meanwhile said it "emphatically discourages" people from traveling to Ukraine given the security situation. That did not stop Brazilian military veteran Leandro Galvao, who is already on the ground in the suburbs of Kyiv, where he carries out patrol and civilian rescue operations alongside the Ukrainian army. Also read | Brazil police probes education ministry's graft allegations Galvao, 49, came from Estonia, where he lives, to "defend democracy," he told AFP. "Ever since I joined the Ukrainian army, I'm part of this nation, and I'll defend it to the end," said the Sao Paulo native, who has two children. Foreign fighters, he said, "are welcomed here with open arms, with happiness and thanks." Watch | 'Ready to go for neutrality, non-nuclear status,' says Ukrainian president Zelensky

Brazilians join fight in far-away Ukraine

Oscars 2022: Benedict Cumberbatch, Jason Momoa & other celebrities show support for Ukraine

The&nbsp;comedy&nbsp;satire in which Volodymyr&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;unexpectedly becomes Ukraine's president -- his now war-time job in real life -- will be aired again&nbsp;on&nbsp;Netflix, the streaming platform announced Wednesday.

The resurrection of the&nbsp;TV&nbsp;series "Servant of the People" comes amid a global outpouring of praise for the former comedian now leading his outgunned country's fight against the Russian invasion.

"You asked and it's&nbsp;back,"&nbsp;Netflix&nbsp;tweeted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-condemns-us-president-biden-for-calling-putin-war-criminal-463022">Russia condemns US President Biden for calling Putin 'war criminal'</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
You asked and it’s back! 
 
Servant of the People is once again available on Netflix in The US. The 2015 satirical comedy series stars Volodymyr Zelenskyy playing a teacher who unexpectedly becomes President after a video of him complaining about corruption suddenly goes viral. <a href="https://t.co/Pp9f48jutF">pic.twitter.com/Pp9f48jutF</a>
— Netflix (@netflix) <a href="https://twitter.com/netflix/status/1504064948305080327?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

On&nbsp;Tuesday&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;received a standing ovation as he addressed the US Congress via video link with an impassioned plea for more weaponry and the establishment of a no-fly zone to help Ukraine survive the Russian invasion, which began February 24.

In the 2015 series,&nbsp;Zelensky, who is now 44, plays a teacher who unexpectedly becomes president after a video of him complaining about corruption goes viral.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-compares-russian-invasion-to-911-and-pearl-harbor-attack-putin-says-invasion-on-course-463021">Zelensky compares Russian invasion to 9/11 and Pearl Harbor attack; Putin says invasion on course</a>

It was a huge hit in Ukraine and&nbsp;launched&nbsp;Zelensky's career in politics. He was elected president in 2019 as the star of a party with the same name as the&nbsp;TV&nbsp;series. He got more than 70 percent of the votes.

The French-German&nbsp;TV&nbsp;channel Arte has been airing "Servant of the People" online since November 19, citing huge interest.

Since the first days of the invasion, channels that have acquired the rights to air the series include Channel 4 in Britain, ANT 1 in Greece and PRO&nbsp;TV&nbsp;in Romania.

The series was first&nbsp;on&nbsp;Netflix&nbsp;from 2017 to 2021.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: Is the peace deal possible?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-invasion-is-the-peace-deal-possible-462981/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

The comedy satire in which Volodymyr Zelensky unexpectedly becomes Ukraine's president -- his now war-time job in real life -- will be aired again on Netflix, the streaming platform announced Wednesday.

The comedy satire in which Volodymyr Zelensky unexpectedly becomes Ukraine's president -- his now war-time job in real life -- will be aired again on Netflix, the streaming platform announced Wednesday. The resurrection of the TV series "Servant of the People" comes amid a global outpouring of praise for the former comedian now leading his outgunned country's fight against the Russian invasion. "You asked and it's back," Netflix tweeted. Also read | Russia condemns US President Biden for calling Putin 'war criminal' You asked and it’s back! Servant of the People is once again available on Netflix in The US. The 2015 satirical comedy series stars Volodymyr Zelenskyy playing a teacher who unexpectedly becomes President after a video of him complaining about corruption suddenly goes viral. pic.twitter.com/Pp9f48jutF — Netflix (@netflix) March 16, 2022 × On Tuesday Zelensky received a standing ovation as he addressed the US Congress via video link with an impassioned plea for more weaponry and the establishment of a no-fly zone to help Ukraine survive the Russian invasion, which began February 24. In the 2015 series, Zelensky, who is now 44, plays a teacher who unexpectedly becomes president after a video of him complaining about corruption goes viral. Also read | Zelensky compares Russian invasion to 9/11 and Pearl Harbor attack; Putin says invasion on course It was a huge hit in Ukraine and launched Zelensky's career in politics. He was elected president in 2019 as the star of a party with the same name as the TV series. He got more than 70 percent of the votes. The French-German TV channel Arte has been airing "Servant of the People" online since November 19, citing huge interest. Since the first days of the invasion, channels that have acquired the rights to air the series include Channel 4 in Britain, ANT 1 in Greece and PRO TV in Romania. The series was first on Netflix from 2017 to 2021. Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: Is the peace deal possible?

TV comedy that launched Volodymyr Zelensky to presidency back on Netflix

People fleeing what had been the relative safety of western Ukraine joined thousands crossing into eastern Europe on Monday after Russia attacked a Ukrainian base near the border with NATO-member Poland.

Ukraine said 35 people were killed at the base on Sunday. Moscow said up to 180 "foreign mercenaries" died and a large number of foreign weapons were destroyed.

Ukraine also reported renewed air strikes on an airport in the west of the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-warns-russia-might-be-planning-a-chemical-attack-on-ukraine-us-nato-un-echo-the-concern-462340">UK warns Russia might be planning a chemical attack on Ukraine; US, NATO echo the concern</a>

The number of&nbsp;refugees&nbsp;fleeing Ukraine since Russia invaded on Feb. 24 climbed to more than 2.8 million, United Nations data showed on Monday, in what has become Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War Two.

European Union officials have said 5 million may end up fleeing while others have put the figure higher.

Millions of people have also been displaced inside Ukraine, with many evacuated only as far as the quieter western regions, including to cities like Lviv.

Myroslava, 52, fled her home in the Ternopil region, in western Ukraine, and was waiting in a terminal of Krakow station in Poland to be picked up by acquaintances. She did not know where she would stay.

"We left because of the attack yesterday," she said, adding that she had hoped western Ukraine would be safe. "We weren't planning to leave, but as it was so close we decided to."

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki told a news conference with his counterparts from Ukraine and Lithuania that the attack near its border showed Russia wanted to "create panic among the civilian population".

Mira from Kyiv, travelling with her mother to Warsaw, said she had been surprised by the Russian attack near Lviv. "I just panicked and felt scared," she said.

Battles continued around many of Ukraine's main cities, including the capital Kyiv. Ukraine said it would try to evacuate civilians through 10 humanitarian corridors on Monday.

Russia denies targeting civilians, describing its actions as a "special operation" to demilitarise and "de-Nazify" Ukraine. Ukraine and Western allies call this a baseless pretext for Russia's invasion of the democratic country of 44 million.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-adds-11-members-of-russias-defense-enterprise-to-sanctions-list-462335">US adds 11 members of Russia's Defense Enterprise to sanctions list</a>

"Houses were blown up," Alena Kasinyska, a refugee from the town of Mykolaiv, in southern Ukraine, said after crossing into Romania at Isaccea, a busy border crossing in the Danube delta. "People have no place to live, we are scared."

Ukraine said it had begun "hard" talks on a ceasefire, immediate withdrawal of troops and security guarantees with Russia on Monday.

Both sides reported rare progress at the weekend after earlier rounds primarily focused on ceasefires to get aid to cities under siege by Russian forces and evacuate civilians. Those truces have frequently failed.

Beds and Soup

Frontline states such as Poland, which has welcomed well over half of the total number fleeing, and Slovakia, Romania, Hungary and Moldova, have taken in the vast majority of the&nbsp;refugees, some of whom have then headed on further west.

Poland's border guard said about 1.76 million people had entered the country since the fighting started, with 18,400 arriving during the early hours of Monday.

Temporary beds and make-shift canteens have sprung up at convention centers and disused shopping malls around the region while volunteers work long hours handing out free hot drinks and SIM cards, or shuttling&nbsp;refugees&nbsp;further west.

At a youth education center near Auschwitz, normally dedicated to preserving memories of the Holocaust and World War Two, nearly 2,000 meals had been served to&nbsp;refugees&nbsp;in the past couple of weeks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/20-killed-28-injured-in-missile-strike-by-ukraine-says-russia-462336">20 killed, 28 injured in missile strike by Ukraine, says Russia</a>

Further east, an international team of chefs and aid workers in the town Przemysl have served thousands of meals daily to the&nbsp;refugees&nbsp;streaming through Poland's busiest border crossing, Medyka, located nearby.

"We do a lot of soups because it's very cold and the&nbsp;refugees&nbsp;that are coming, they cannot carry like a big plate of food because they are carrying all their belongings," said Clara, a volunteer chef for aid NGO World Central Kitchen.

"We do hot chocolate, we do a lot of baby food as well."

Sympathy over the plight of their neighbours and deep-set memories of Moscow's dominance has seen a groundswell of volunteer efforts, but the sheer scale of the refugee crisis has raised fears of being overwhelmed.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine, Russia optimistic about round 4 of talks

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-russia-optimistic-about-round-4-of-talks-462334/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Some countries further away from Ukraine's borders, such as the Czech Republic, have also taken in tens of thousands of&nbsp;refugees, piling pressure on local authorities, while others, like Lithuania, have only just begun to receive significant numbers, with about 1,000 now arriving every day.

"Most of these are women with small children, some with only a handbag for luggage," said Kristina Meide, director of the Lithuanian Red Cross.

People fleeing what had been the relative safety of western Ukraine joined thousands crossing into eastern Europe on Monday after Russia attacked a Ukrainian base near the border with NATO-member Poland.

People fleeing what had been the relative safety of western Ukraine joined thousands crossing into eastern Europe on Monday after Russia attacked a Ukrainian base near the border with NATO-member Poland. Ukraine said 35 people were killed at the base on Sunday. Moscow said up to 180 "foreign mercenaries" died and a large number of foreign weapons were destroyed. Ukraine also reported renewed air strikes on an airport in the west of the country. Also read | UK warns Russia might be planning a chemical attack on Ukraine; US, NATO echo the concern The number of refugees fleeing Ukraine since Russia invaded on Feb. 24 climbed to more than 2.8 million, United Nations data showed on Monday, in what has become Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War Two. European Union officials have said 5 million may end up fleeing while others have put the figure higher. Millions of people have also been displaced inside Ukraine, with many evacuated only as far as the quieter western regions, including to cities like Lviv. Myroslava, 52, fled her home in the Ternopil region, in western Ukraine, and was waiting in a terminal of Krakow station in Poland to be picked up by acquaintances. She did not know where she would stay. "We left because of the attack yesterday," she said, adding that she had hoped western Ukraine would be safe. "We weren't planning to leave, but as it was so close we decided to." Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki told a news conference with his counterparts from Ukraine and Lithuania that the attack near its border showed Russia wanted to "create panic among the civilian population". Mira from Kyiv, travelling with her mother to Warsaw, said she had been surprised by the Russian attack near Lviv. "I just panicked and felt scared," she said. Battles continued around many of Ukraine's main cities, including the capital Kyiv. Ukraine said it would try to evacuate civilians through 10 humanitarian corridors on Monday. Russia denies targeting civilians, describing its actions as a "special operation" to demilitarise and "de-Nazify" Ukraine. Ukraine and Western allies call this a baseless pretext for Russia's invasion of the democratic country of 44 million. Also read | US adds 11 members of Russia's Defense Enterprise to sanctions list "Houses were blown up," Alena Kasinyska, a refugee from the town of Mykolaiv, in southern Ukraine, said after crossing into Romania at Isaccea, a busy border crossing in the Danube delta. "People have no place to live, we are scared." Ukraine said it had begun "hard" talks on a ceasefire, immediate withdrawal of troops and security guarantees with Russia on Monday. Both sides reported rare progress at the weekend after earlier rounds primarily focused on ceasefires to get aid to cities under siege by Russian forces and evacuate civilians. Those truces have frequently failed. Beds and Soup Frontline states such as Poland, which has welcomed well over half of the total number fleeing, and Slovakia, Romania, Hungary and Moldova, have taken in the vast majority of the refugees, some of whom have then headed on further west. Poland's border guard said about 1.76 million people had entered the country since the fighting started, with 18,400 arriving during the early hours of Monday. Temporary beds and make-shift canteens have sprung up at convention centers and disused shopping malls around the region while volunteers work long hours handing out free hot drinks and SIM cards, or shuttling refugees further west. At a youth education center near Auschwitz, normally dedicated to preserving memories of the Holocaust and World War Two, nearly 2,000 meals had been served to refugees in the past couple of weeks. Also read | 20 killed, 28 injured in missile strike by Ukraine, says Russia Further east, an international team of chefs and aid workers in the town Przemysl have served thousands of meals daily to the refugees streaming through Poland's busiest border crossing, Medyka, located nearby. "We do a lot of soups because it's very cold and the refugees that are coming, they cannot carry like a big plate of food because they are carrying all their belongings," said Clara, a volunteer chef for aid NGO World Central Kitchen. "We do hot chocolate, we do a lot of baby food as well." Sympathy over the plight of their neighbours and deep-set memories of Moscow's dominance has seen a groundswell of volunteer efforts, but the sheer scale of the refugee crisis has raised fears of being overwhelmed. Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine, Russia optimistic about round 4 of talks Some countries further away from Ukraine's borders, such as the Czech Republic, have also taken in tens of thousands of refugees, piling pressure on local authorities, while others, like Lithuania, have only just begun to receive significant numbers, with about 1,000 now arriving every day. "Most of these are women with small children, some with only a handbag for luggage," said Kristina Meide, director of the Lithuanian Red Cross.

Europe's fastest growing refugee crisis: In 20 days, 2.8 million people have fled Ukraine

Diplomatic efforts to end the war in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;were gearing up on Monday, with Ukrainian and&nbsp;Russian negotiators set to talk again after both sides cited progress, even though&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;attacked a&nbsp;base&nbsp;near the Polish border and fighting raged elsewhere.

A barrage of&nbsp;Russian missiles hit&nbsp;Ukraine's Yavoriv International Centre for Peacekeeping and Security, a&nbsp;base&nbsp;just 15 miles (25 km) from the Polish border that has previously hosted NATO military instructors, killing 35 people and wounding 134, a Ukrainian official said on Sunday.

Russia's defence ministry said up to 180 "foreign mercenaries" and a large number of foreign weapons were destroyed. Reuters could not independently verify the casualties reported by either side.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-war-who-is-chechen-warlord-ramzan-kadyrov-462074">Ukraine-Russia war: Who is Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov?</a>

Thousands of people have died since Feb. 24, when&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin launched what he called a special military operation to rid&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;of dangerous nationalists and Nazis.

The United States, which had watched&nbsp;Russia's build-up on&nbsp;Ukraine's borders with mounting alarm for weeks, says it was a premeditated, unjustified and unlawful "war of choice".

In a telephone call, U.S. President Joe Biden and France's Emmanuel Macron underscored their commitment to holding&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;accountable for the invasion, the White House said.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and his Ukrainian counterpart, Dmytro Kuleba, also discussed diplomatic efforts to stop&nbsp;Russia's invasion, the State Department said.

Hopes were boosted after&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;gave their most upbeat assessments following weekend negotiations.

"Russia&nbsp;is already beginning to talk constructively," Ukrainian negotiator Mykhailo Podolyak said in a video online. "I think that we will achieve some results literally in a matter of days."

A&nbsp;Russian delegate to the&nbsp;talks, Leonid Slutsky, was quoted by the RIA news agency as saying they had made significant progress and it was possible the delegations could soon reach draft agreements.

Ukraine&nbsp;said&nbsp;talks&nbsp;via video were set to start at 10:30 a.m. (0830 GMT). Neither side has said what they would cover. Three rounds of&nbsp;talks&nbsp;in Belarus, most recently last Monday, had focused mainly on humanitarian issues.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-tank-advance-in-ukraine-what-is-rasputitsa-462047">Russian tanks advance in Ukraine: What is 'Rasputitsa'?</a>

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the countries' delegations had been speaking daily by video link and a clear aim of his negotiators was to "do everything" to arrange for him to meet Putin.

"We must hold on. We must fight. And we will win," Zelenskiy said in a late night video speech.

Harsh Sanctions

Global financial markets, battered by fears the conflict could spread and drag in NATO, rallied on hopes for progress in peace&nbsp;talks. Stocks rose while oil prices gave up some of their massive recent gains.&nbsp;

Soaring energy costs and disruptions to supply chains caused by the fighting and sanctions have fuelled inflationary pressures worldwide.

Russian coal and fertiliser king Andrei Melnichenko said the war in&nbsp;Ukraine, a top producer of grains, must be stopped or there would be a global food crisis as fertilizer prices were already too high for many farmers.

"The events in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;are truly tragic. We urgently need peace," Melnichenko told Reuters.

The West has sanctioned&nbsp;Russian businessmen, including European Union sanctions on Melnichenko, frozen state assets and cut off much of the&nbsp;Russian corporate sector from the global economy in an attempt to force Putin to change course.

Russia's finance ministry said on Monday it had approved a temporary procedure for repaying foreign currency debt, but warned payments would be made in roubles if sanctions prevented banks from honouring debts in the currency of issue.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-not-for-free-says-zelensky-on-western-arms-sale-to-ukraine-462030">&nbsp;It's not for free, says Zelensky on Western arms sale to Ukraine</a>

Also,&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;has asked China for military equipment, sparking concern in the White House that Beijing may undermine Western efforts to help Ukrainian defenders, several U.S. officials said.

U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who is set to meet China's top diplomat Yang Jiechi in Rome on Monday, warned Beijing it would "absolutely" face consequences if it helped Moscow evade sanctions.

Asked about&nbsp;Russia's request for military aid, Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for China's embassy in Washington, said, "I've never heard of that."

China found the current situation in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;"disconcerting", he said, adding, "We support and encourage all efforts that are conducive to a peaceful settlement of the crisis."

Still, violence and bloodshed continued.

Air raid sirens sounded before dawn in many cities and regions of&nbsp;Ukraine, including Kyiv, Lviv, Odessa, Ivano-Frankivsk and Cherkasy.

In Kyiv, at least one person was killed and three injured when a shell hit a residential building, state television said, while the city administration said the Antonov aircraft plant there had been shelled.

Authorities said they were stockpiling two weeks' worth of food for the 2 million people who have not yet fled from&nbsp;Russian forces attempting to encircle the capital.

An American journalist was shot and killed by&nbsp;Russian forces in the town of Irpin, northwest of Kyiv, and another journalist was wounded, the regional police chief said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-warship-go-fck-yourself-ukraine-reveals-postage-stamp-462023">Russian warship 'go f*ck yourself': Ukraine reveals postage stamp</a>

Britain's defence ministry said&nbsp;Russian naval forces had established a distant blockade of&nbsp;Ukraine's Black Sea coast, isolating the country from international maritime trade.

In eastern&nbsp;Ukraine,&nbsp;Russian troops were trying to surround Ukrainian forces as they advance from the port of Mariupol in the south and the second city Kharkiv in the north, it added.

Russia's invasion has sent&nbsp;more&nbsp;than 2.5 million people fleeing across&nbsp;Ukraine's borders and trapped hundreds of thousands in besieged cities.

The United Nations says at least 596 civilians have died since the invasion began and the toll is probably considerably higher as it is difficult to confirm deaths in places such as Mariupol.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Why the West is winning the Information War

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-why-the-west-is-winning-the-information-war-461710/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The city council in Mariupol said 2,187 residents had been killed since the start of the invasion. Reuters was not able to verify that toll.

Moscow denies targeting civilians. It blames&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;for failed attempts to evacuate civilians from encircled cities, an accusation&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;and its Western allies strongly reject.

Diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine were gearing up on Monday, with Ukrainian and Russian negotiators set to talk again after both sides cited progress, even though Russia attacked a base near the Polish border and fighting raged elsewhere.

Diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine were gearing up on Monday, with Ukrainian and Russian negotiators set to talk again after both sides cited progress, even though Russia attacked a base near the Polish border and fighting raged elsewhere. A barrage of Russian missiles hit Ukraine's Yavoriv International Centre for Peacekeeping and Security, a base just 15 miles (25 km) from the Polish border that has previously hosted NATO military instructors, killing 35 people and wounding 134, a Ukrainian official said on Sunday. Russia's defence ministry said up to 180 "foreign mercenaries" and a large number of foreign weapons were destroyed. Reuters could not independently verify the casualties reported by either side. Also read | Ukraine-Russia war: Who is Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov? Thousands of people have died since Feb. 24, when Russian President Vladimir Putin launched what he called a special military operation to rid Ukraine of dangerous nationalists and Nazis. The United States, which had watched Russia's build-up on Ukraine's borders with mounting alarm for weeks, says it was a premeditated, unjustified and unlawful "war of choice". In a telephone call, U.S. President Joe Biden and France's Emmanuel Macron underscored their commitment to holding Russia accountable for the invasion, the White House said. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and his Ukrainian counterpart, Dmytro Kuleba, also discussed diplomatic efforts to stop Russia's invasion, the State Department said. Hopes were boosted after Russia and Ukraine gave their most upbeat assessments following weekend negotiations. "Russia is already beginning to talk constructively," Ukrainian negotiator Mykhailo Podolyak said in a video online. "I think that we will achieve some results literally in a matter of days." A Russian delegate to the talks, Leonid Slutsky, was quoted by the RIA news agency as saying they had made significant progress and it was possible the delegations could soon reach draft agreements. Ukraine said talks via video were set to start at 10:30 a.m. (0830 GMT). Neither side has said what they would cover. Three rounds of talks in Belarus, most recently last Monday, had focused mainly on humanitarian issues. Also read | Russian tanks advance in Ukraine: What is 'Rasputitsa'? Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the countries' delegations had been speaking daily by video link and a clear aim of his negotiators was to "do everything" to arrange for him to meet Putin. "We must hold on. We must fight. And we will win," Zelenskiy said in a late night video speech. Harsh Sanctions Global financial markets, battered by fears the conflict could spread and drag in NATO, rallied on hopes for progress in peace talks. Stocks rose while oil prices gave up some of their massive recent gains. Soaring energy costs and disruptions to supply chains caused by the fighting and sanctions have fuelled inflationary pressures worldwide. Russian coal and fertiliser king Andrei Melnichenko said the war in Ukraine, a top producer of grains, must be stopped or there would be a global food crisis as fertilizer prices were already too high for many farmers. "The events in Ukraine are truly tragic. We urgently need peace," Melnichenko told Reuters. The West has sanctioned Russian businessmen, including European Union sanctions on Melnichenko, frozen state assets and cut off much of the Russian corporate sector from the global economy in an attempt to force Putin to change course. Russia's finance ministry said on Monday it had approved a temporary procedure for repaying foreign currency debt, but warned payments would be made in roubles if sanctions prevented banks from honouring debts in the currency of issue. Also read | It's not for free, says Zelensky on Western arms sale to Ukraine Also, Russia has asked China for military equipment, sparking concern in the White House that Beijing may undermine Western efforts to help Ukrainian defenders, several U.S. officials said. U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who is set to meet China's top diplomat Yang Jiechi in Rome on Monday, warned Beijing it would "absolutely" face consequences if it helped Moscow evade sanctions. Asked about Russia's request for military aid, Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for China's embassy in Washington, said, "I've never heard of that." China found the current situation in Ukraine "disconcerting", he said, adding, "We support and encourage all efforts that are conducive to a peaceful settlement of the crisis." Still, violence and bloodshed continued. Air raid sirens sounded before dawn in many cities and regions of Ukraine, including Kyiv, Lviv, Odessa, Ivano-Frankivsk and Cherkasy. In Kyiv, at least one person was killed and three injured when a shell hit a residential building, state television said, while the city administration said the Antonov aircraft plant there had been shelled. Authorities said they were stockpiling two weeks' worth of food for the 2 million people who have not yet fled from Russian forces attempting to encircle the capital. An American journalist was shot and killed by Russian forces in the town of Irpin, northwest of Kyiv, and another journalist was wounded, the regional police chief said. Also read | Russian warship 'go f*ck yourself': Ukraine reveals postage stamp Britain's defence ministry said Russian naval forces had established a distant blockade of Ukraine's Black Sea coast, isolating the country from international maritime trade. In eastern Ukraine, Russian troops were trying to surround Ukrainian forces as they advance from the port of Mariupol in the south and the second city Kharkiv in the north, it added. Russia's invasion has sent more than 2.5 million people fleeing across Ukraine's borders and trapped hundreds of thousands in besieged cities. The United Nations says at least 596 civilians have died since the invasion began and the toll is probably considerably higher as it is difficult to confirm deaths in places such as Mariupol. Watch | Gravitas Plus: Why the West is winning the Information War The city council in Mariupol said 2,187 residents had been killed since the start of the invasion. Reuters was not able to verify that toll. Moscow denies targeting civilians. It blames Ukraine for failed attempts to evacuate civilians from encircled cities, an accusation Ukraine and its Western allies strongly reject.

More Ukraine-Russia talks scheduled as attack on base kills dozens

Italy's prime minister called on Monday for&nbsp;European Union&nbsp;countries&nbsp;to act swiftly with&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;against&nbsp;Russian individuals and companies following Moscow's attack on Ukraine.

"And now we have to act, all of us, with speed on this point," Mario Draghi said in Brussels in brief comments to reporters ahead of a meeting with&nbsp;European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/more-than-4000-people-detained-at-anti-war-protests-in-russia-459908">More than 4,000 people detained at anti-war protests in Russia</a>

On Saturday, the Italian government said police seized villas and yachts worth 143 million&nbsp;euros ($154.94 million) from five high-profile&nbsp;Russians who were placed on&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;lists.

In separate remarks after meeting von der Leyen, Draghi said&nbsp;Italy, France and Germany were swiftly implementing&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;against&nbsp;Russian oligarchs, while "others less so". He didn't give further details.

"We don't rule out more&nbsp;sanctions, but we didn't discuss this (with von der Leyen)," Draghi said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-poutine-not-putin-classic-delicacy-falls-victim-to-russia-ukraine-conflict-goes-off-menu-459877">It’s Poutine, not Putin: Classic delicacy falls victim to Russia-Ukraine conflict, goes off menu</a>

Russia's invasion, which has been condemned around the world, has sent more than 1.5 million Ukrainians fleeing abroad and triggered sweeping&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;that have abruptly isolated&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;to a degree never before experienced by such a large economy.

The former&nbsp;European Central Bank chief said he believed&nbsp;Russia's aim was "to carry on until the country (Ukraine) has surrendered, probably set up a friendly government and defeat the resistance, that is what the facts show".

Watch |&nbsp;Over 1.5 million people have fled Ukraine since Russian invasion

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/over-15-million-people-have-fled-ukraine-since-russian-invasion-459911/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He said&nbsp;Italy&nbsp;has no objections to Ukraine becoming a member of the&nbsp;European Union, but added that this is a long procedure which usually&nbsp;needs deep reforms.

"We support Ukrainian membership of the&nbsp;European family," he said.

Italy's prime minister called on Monday for European Union countries to act swiftly with sanctions against Russian individuals and companies following Moscow's attack on Ukraine.

Italy's prime minister called on Monday for European Union countries to act swiftly with sanctions against Russian individuals and companies following Moscow's attack on Ukraine. "And now we have to act, all of us, with speed on this point," Mario Draghi said in Brussels in brief comments to reporters ahead of a meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Also read | More than 4,000 people detained at anti-war protests in Russia On Saturday, the Italian government said police seized villas and yachts worth 143 million euros ($154.94 million) from five high-profile Russians who were placed on sanctions lists. In separate remarks after meeting von der Leyen, Draghi said Italy, France and Germany were swiftly implementing sanctions against Russian oligarchs, while "others less so". He didn't give further details. "We don't rule out more sanctions, but we didn't discuss this (with von der Leyen)," Draghi said. Also read | It’s Poutine, not Putin: Classic delicacy falls victim to Russia-Ukraine conflict, goes off menu Russia's invasion, which has been condemned around the world, has sent more than 1.5 million Ukrainians fleeing abroad and triggered sweeping sanctions that have abruptly isolated Russia to a degree never before experienced by such a large economy. The former European Central Bank chief said he believed Russia's aim was "to carry on until the country (Ukraine) has surrendered, probably set up a friendly government and defeat the resistance, that is what the facts show". Watch | Over 1.5 million people have fled Ukraine since Russian invasion He said Italy has no objections to Ukraine becoming a member of the European Union, but added that this is a long procedure which usually needs deep reforms. "We support Ukrainian membership of the European family," he said.

Italy says EU countries need to move quickly on sanctions against Russia

Australia has committed A$70 million ($50 million) to fund lethal defensive weapons for Ukraine, including missiles and ammunition, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Tuesday.

Australia has shifted from its stance last week when it said it would only fund military technical assistance.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-gives-visas-to-only-50-ukrainian-refugees-france-calls-it-lack-of-humanity-459814">UK gives visas to only 50 Ukrainian refugees, France calls it 'lack of humanity'</a>

Morrison told reporters on Tuesday the majority of the new weapons funding for Ukraine would be in the lethal category.

"We're talking missiles, we're talking ammunition, we're talking supporting them in their defence of their own homeland in Ukraine and we will be doing that in partnership with NATO."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-allies-plan-ways-to-help-establish-support-a-ukrainian-government-in-exile-459791">US, allies plan ways to help establish, support a Ukrainian government-in-exile</a>

He said the weapons would be delivered rapidly, but didn't disclose how.

Morrison also urged Australian citizens not travel to join Ukraine's militia in fighting against the Russian military, saying the legal position of foreign civilian combatants was unclear.

"Don't do it," he said.

Australia will commit A$35 million in humanitarian support to international organisations assisting Ukrainians with shelter, food, medical care, water and education, he said.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia calls for a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine from 7 AM GMT to aid in evacuations

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-calls-for-a-temporary-ceasefire-in-ukraine-from-7-am-gmt-to-aid-in-evacuations-459818/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

Australia has committed A$70 million ($50 million) to fund lethal defensive weapons for Ukraine, including missiles and ammunition, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Tuesday.

Australia has committed A$70 million ($50 million) to fund lethal defensive weapons for Ukraine, including missiles and ammunition, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Tuesday. Australia has shifted from its stance last week when it said it would only fund military technical assistance. Also read | UK gives visas to only 50 Ukrainian refugees, France calls it 'lack of humanity' Morrison told reporters on Tuesday the majority of the new weapons funding for Ukraine would be in the lethal category. "We're talking missiles, we're talking ammunition, we're talking supporting them in their defence of their own homeland in Ukraine and we will be doing that in partnership with NATO." Also read | US, allies plan ways to help establish, support a Ukrainian government-in-exile He said the weapons would be delivered rapidly, but didn't disclose how. Morrison also urged Australian citizens not travel to join Ukraine's militia in fighting against the Russian military, saying the legal position of foreign civilian combatants was unclear. "Don't do it," he said. Australia will commit A$35 million in humanitarian support to international organisations assisting Ukrainians with shelter, food, medical care, water and education, he said. Watch | Russia calls for a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine from 7 AM GMT to aid in evacuations

Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Australia will fund lethal weapons for Ukraine, says PM Morrison

Russia's invasion of Ukraine is an attack on not only this country, but also on the security of Europe, US President Joe Biden has said.

In an interaction with reporters during a bilateral meeting with President Niinist&nbsp;of Finland on Friday, Biden said the two nations have been in regular touch for some time now.

He said they have coordinated on a united, transatlantic response to the Russians and holding them accountable for their unprovoked and unjustifiable aggression against Ukraine.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-under-attack-russia-accuses-ukrainian-nationalists-of-forcibly-holding-over-3700-indians-459150">&nbsp;Ukraine under attack: Russia accuses 'Ukrainian nationalists' of 'forcibly' holding over 3,700 Indians</a>

And we agreed it's not only an attack on Ukraine, it's an attack on the security of Europe and on global peace and stability,&nbsp;Biden said in the Oval Office of the White House.

Earlier in the day, Biden spoke with President Andrzej Duda of Poland to discuss their countries' response, and those of allies, to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, including ongoing efforts to impose severe consequences on Russia.

Biden underscored the United States' commitment to the security of Poland and all of our NATO Allies, White House said in a statement of the call.

He welcomed Poland's partnership in hosting 9,000 US forces, including 4,700 additional service members deployed there in recent weeks, to reassure eastern flank allies, deter Russian aggression against NATO, read the statement.

In Brussels, Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, said the US has sent an additional 7,000 troops to Europe and repositioned its forces already on the continent to strengthen NATO's eastern flank.

We continue to tighten our severe economic sanctions on Russia, he said.

Yesterday, President Putin said his so-called special military operation' is proceeding exactly as planned.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/green-light-for-bombing-zelensky-lashes-out-at-nato-for-ruling-out-ukraine-no-fly-zone-459118">&nbsp;'Green light for bombing': Zelensky lashes out at NATO for ruling out Ukraine no-fly zone</a>

Well, it's hard to imagine that his plan included inspiring the Ukrainian people to defend their country with such tenacity; strengthening the resolve and solidarity of NATO and the EU; uniting the world in opposition to Moscow, including 141 countries at the United Nations, he said.

Blinken continued saying that the Russian invasion has apparently come to unite an unprecedented number of international businesses, associations, cultural institutions that have cut ties with Russia and caused the Russian economy to go into freefall".

He said the country's financial state has motivated tens of thousands of Russians to protest and countless more to leave the country, and is "increasingly turning Russia into a pariah state.

If that was President Putin's plan, well, you can say it's working. Russia has never been so isolated; we have never been more united, Blinken said.

Earlier, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin had a chance to speak with the Polish Minister of Defence Mariusz Blaszczak to discuss impacts of the precious unprovoked and unjust war against Ukraine, his spokesperson John Kirby said.

A deconflation line has been placed between the US and Russia, he said.

It's only been in place for a couple of days, I think since early this week. It is basically a phone line, a phone connection to the Russian Ministry of Defense. It is being administered out of European Command Headquarters, Kirby said in response to a question.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: The tale of two wartime leaders

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-tale-of-two-wartime-leaders-459092/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

When we tested it, they did pick up the other end. And they acknowledged that they got the call. So, we know it works. We think again, this is as we've done before, like in Syria, we think it's valuable to have a direct communication vehicle at that level at an operational level. To reduce the risks of miscalculation, Kirby said.

And to be able to communicate in real time if need be. Particularly because now the airspace over Ukraine is contested by both Russian and Ukrainian aircraft. So that contested airspace now buttress is right up against NATO. So smart thing to do. And we're glad it's in place. We're glad that the Russians have acknowledged that they will use it, he added.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine is an attack on not only this country, but also on the security of Europe, US President Joe Biden has said. In an interaction with reporters during a bilateral meeting with President Niinist of Finland on Friday, Biden said the two nations have been in regular touch for some time now.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine is an attack on not only this country, but also on the security of Europe, US President Joe Biden has said. In an interaction with reporters during a bilateral meeting with President Niinist of Finland on Friday, Biden said the two nations have been in regular touch for some time now. He said they have coordinated on a united, transatlantic response to the Russians and holding them accountable for their unprovoked and unjustifiable aggression against Ukraine. Also read | Ukraine under attack: Russia accuses 'Ukrainian nationalists' of 'forcibly' holding over 3,700 Indians And we agreed it's not only an attack on Ukraine, it's an attack on the security of Europe and on global peace and stability, Biden said in the Oval Office of the White House. Earlier in the day, Biden spoke with President Andrzej Duda of Poland to discuss their countries' response, and those of allies, to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, including ongoing efforts to impose severe consequences on Russia. Biden underscored the United States' commitment to the security of Poland and all of our NATO Allies, White House said in a statement of the call. He welcomed Poland's partnership in hosting 9,000 US forces, including 4,700 additional service members deployed there in recent weeks, to reassure eastern flank allies, deter Russian aggression against NATO, read the statement. In Brussels, Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, said the US has sent an additional 7,000 troops to Europe and repositioned its forces already on the continent to strengthen NATO's eastern flank. We continue to tighten our severe economic sanctions on Russia, he said. Yesterday, President Putin said his so-called special military operation' is proceeding exactly as planned. Also read | 'Green light for bombing': Zelensky lashes out at NATO for ruling out Ukraine no-fly zone Well, it's hard to imagine that his plan included inspiring the Ukrainian people to defend their country with such tenacity; strengthening the resolve and solidarity of NATO and the EU; uniting the world in opposition to Moscow, including 141 countries at the United Nations, he said. Blinken continued saying that the Russian invasion has apparently come to unite an unprecedented number of international businesses, associations, cultural institutions that have cut ties with Russia and caused the Russian economy to go into freefall". He said the country's financial state has motivated tens of thousands of Russians to protest and countless more to leave the country, and is "increasingly turning Russia into a pariah state. If that was President Putin's plan, well, you can say it's working. Russia has never been so isolated; we have never been more united, Blinken said. Earlier, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin had a chance to speak with the Polish Minister of Defence Mariusz Blaszczak to discuss impacts of the precious unprovoked and unjust war against Ukraine, his spokesperson John Kirby said. A deconflation line has been placed between the US and Russia, he said. It's only been in place for a couple of days, I think since early this week. It is basically a phone line, a phone connection to the Russian Ministry of Defense. It is being administered out of European Command Headquarters, Kirby said in response to a question. Watch | Gravitas: The tale of two wartime leaders When we tested it, they did pick up the other end. And they acknowledged that they got the call. So, we know it works. We think again, this is as we've done before, like in Syria, we think it's valuable to have a direct communication vehicle at that level at an operational level. To reduce the risks of miscalculation, Kirby said. And to be able to communicate in real time if need be. Particularly because now the airspace over Ukraine is contested by both Russian and Ukrainian aircraft. So that contested airspace now buttress is right up against NATO. So smart thing to do. And we're glad it's in place. We're glad that the Russians have acknowledged that they will use it, he added.

Russian attack on Ukraine an attack on security of Europe, global peace: Biden