Today marks the 17th day of Russian invasion of Ukraine. While, heavy bombardments in central part of Kyiv is going on, the Russian forces seem to be regrouping for a possible assault on the Ukrainian capital.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Day 17th of Russian invasion of Ukraine

In the recent summit of European union leaders, the hope for Ukraine's membership in EU has been dashed out.

Ukraine under attack: European Union leaders dashes Ukraine's membership hopes

Amid Ukraine and Russia conflict, Russian forces started crawling closer to Kyiv and fears have been mounted that Kyiv will be encircled soon.

Russian forces crawl closer to Kyiv, Is this renewed effort to capture the capital?

Dutch brewer&nbsp;Heineken, Danish beer-maker&nbsp;Carlsberg, and&nbsp;Universal&nbsp;Music&nbsp;Group are some of the latest Western firms to halt operations in&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;over Moscow's war in Ukraine.

On Thursday, Japanese gaming giants PlayStation and Nintendo announced they would suspend shipments to&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;too, joining the hundreds of multinationals who have taken action.&nbsp;

Heineken, the world's second-biggest beer company, said Wednesday it was stopping the production, advertising and sale of its namesake brand in&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;"in response to the continued escalation of the war".

Heineken&nbsp;had already suspended new investments and exports to&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;last week.

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"We are shocked and saddened to watch the tragedy in Ukraine unfold,"&nbsp;Heineken&nbsp;chief executive Dolf van den Brink said in a statement.

"The Russian government's war against Ukraine is an unprovoked and completely unjustified attack," he added.

Heineken&nbsp;employs 1,800 people in&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and says it is the third-biggest brewer in the country, where it makes the Zhigulevskoe and Oxota brands for the local market.

The brewer said it would take "immediate steps to ring-fence" its Russian business from the rest of its global operations "to stop the flow of monies, royalties and dividends out of&nbsp;Russia".

"Heineken&nbsp;will no longer accept any net financial benefit derived from our Russian operations," it said.

Heineken's other famous brands include Amstel, Tiger and Strongbow cider.

Danish brewer&nbsp;Carlsberg, the world's fourth biggest beer producer, said it too was halting production and sales in&nbsp;Russia.

It said Baltika Breweries, which it majority owns, would continue to operate as a separate business to sustain its 8,400 employees in&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;"who are not responsible for the actions of the government".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/life-imitates-art-broadcasters-clamours-to-air-ukrainian-comedian-turned-war-hero-presidents-tv-show-460771">Life imitates art: Broadcasters clamours to air Ukrainian comedian-turned-war-hero President's TV show</a>

The Danish group said that during the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, any profits generated by its business in&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;would be donated to relief organisations.

Sony Group, which owns PlayStation, said in a Thursday statement that its video game unit "joins the global community in calling for peace in Ukraine" as it announced it had suspended operations in&nbsp;Russia.&nbsp;

The tech and entertainment conglomerate also said it was donating $2 million to the UN refugee agency and Save the Children "to support the victims of this tragedy".

A Nintendo spokesperson told AFP it would suspend shipments to&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;"for the time being" for logistical reasons.&nbsp;

World's biggest label

About 300 companies have announced their withdrawal from&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;since it invaded neighbouring Ukraine, according to Yale University researchers.

McDonald's, Coca-Cola and Starbucks joined the crowd on Tuesday following public pressure to do so.

Also on Tuesday,&nbsp;Universal&nbsp;Music&nbsp;Group, the world's biggest label, said it was suspending all operations and closing its offices in&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;effective immediately.

"We urge an end to the violence in Ukraine as soon as possible,"&nbsp;Universal&nbsp;said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/read-olena-zelenskas-letter-to-the-world-first-lady-of-ukraine-condemns-mass-murder-by-russia-460806">Read Olena Zelenska's letter to the world: First Lady of Ukraine condemns 'mass murder' by Russia</a>

"We are adhering to international sanctions and, along with our employees and artists, have been working with groups from a range of countries... to support humanitarian relief efforts to bring urgent aid to refugees in the region," it said.

Italian luxury sports car manufacturer Ferrari said it too was suspending deliveries to&nbsp;Russia.

Ferrari, which has no factories in&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and is represented there by two independent dealerships, sells less than 100 cars every year in&nbsp;Russia, out of more than 11,000 delivered worldwide last year.&nbsp;

The Italian company on Tuesday announced a donation of one million euros ($1.1 million) "to support the Ukrainians in need".

Elsewhere, French rail giant Alstom announced Wednesday that it was suspending deliveries to&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;as well as future business investments there.

But Alstom said it was keeping its stake in Russian locomotives and rail equipment provider Transmashholding.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Did America block transfer of fighter jets to Ukraine?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-did-america-block-transfer-of-fighter-jets-to-ukraine-460710/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

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Dutch brewer Heineken, Danish beer-maker Carlsberg, and Universal Music Group are some of the latest Western firms to halt operations in Russia over Moscow's war in Ukraine.

Dutch brewer Heineken, Danish beer-maker Carlsberg, and Universal Music Group are some of the latest Western firms to halt operations in Russia over Moscow's war in Ukraine. On Thursday, Japanese gaming giants PlayStation and Nintendo announced they would suspend shipments to Russia too, joining the hundreds of multinationals who have taken action. Heineken, the world's second-biggest beer company, said Wednesday it was stopping the production, advertising and sale of its namesake brand in Russia "in response to the continued escalation of the war". Heineken had already suspended new investments and exports to Russia last week. Also read | In a heart-warming gesture, Polish citizens leave essentials at border for Ukrainian refugees "We are shocked and saddened to watch the tragedy in Ukraine unfold," Heineken chief executive Dolf van den Brink said in a statement. "The Russian government's war against Ukraine is an unprovoked and completely unjustified attack," he added. Heineken employs 1,800 people in Russia and says it is the third-biggest brewer in the country, where it makes the Zhigulevskoe and Oxota brands for the local market. The brewer said it would take "immediate steps to ring-fence" its Russian business from the rest of its global operations "to stop the flow of monies, royalties and dividends out of Russia". "Heineken will no longer accept any net financial benefit derived from our Russian operations," it said. Heineken's other famous brands include Amstel, Tiger and Strongbow cider. Danish brewer Carlsberg, the world's fourth biggest beer producer, said it too was halting production and sales in Russia. It said Baltika Breweries, which it majority owns, would continue to operate as a separate business to sustain its 8,400 employees in Russia "who are not responsible for the actions of the government". Also read | Life imitates art: Broadcasters clamours to air Ukrainian comedian-turned-war-hero President's TV show The Danish group said that during the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, any profits generated by its business in Russia would be donated to relief organisations. Sony Group, which owns PlayStation, said in a Thursday statement that its video game unit "joins the global community in calling for peace in Ukraine" as it announced it had suspended operations in Russia. The tech and entertainment conglomerate also said it was donating $2 million to the UN refugee agency and Save the Children "to support the victims of this tragedy". A Nintendo spokesperson told AFP it would suspend shipments to Russia "for the time being" for logistical reasons. World's biggest label About 300 companies have announced their withdrawal from Russia since it invaded neighbouring Ukraine, according to Yale University researchers. McDonald's, Coca-Cola and Starbucks joined the crowd on Tuesday following public pressure to do so. Also on Tuesday, Universal Music Group, the world's biggest label, said it was suspending all operations and closing its offices in Russia effective immediately. "We urge an end to the violence in Ukraine as soon as possible," Universal said in a statement. Also read | Read Olena Zelenska's letter to the world: First Lady of Ukraine condemns 'mass murder' by Russia "We are adhering to international sanctions and, along with our employees and artists, have been working with groups from a range of countries... to support humanitarian relief efforts to bring urgent aid to refugees in the region," it said. Italian luxury sports car manufacturer Ferrari said it too was suspending deliveries to Russia. Ferrari, which has no factories in Russia and is represented there by two independent dealerships, sells less than 100 cars every year in Russia, out of more than 11,000 delivered worldwide last year. The Italian company on Tuesday announced a donation of one million euros ($1.1 million) "to support the Ukrainians in need". Elsewhere, French rail giant Alstom announced Wednesday that it was suspending deliveries to Russia as well as future business investments there. But Alstom said it was keeping its stake in Russian locomotives and rail equipment provider Transmashholding. Watch | Gravitas: Did America block transfer of fighter jets to Ukraine?

PlayStation, Nintendo, Heineken, Carlsberg, Universal Music join Russia exodus

Former Finland captain Tim Sparv wanted to do more than just donate to charities helping Ukrainians fleeing from the Russian invasion of their country so he handed over the keys of his apartment to a family seeking shelter in the Nordic nation.

Some two million Ukrainians are estimated to have been displaced following the Russian invasion of Ukraine two weeks ago, with many heading west towards Poland, Hungary and Romania. "We were always asking how can we do more and this was a concrete way. I thought that millions of refugees are moving away from their homes. I have my apartment in Finland where, to be frank, I don`t spend that much time," he told Reuters in a telephone interview.

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Sparv, who led Finland to a major tournament for the first time when they qualified for Euro 2020 and won the Finnish league with HJK Helsinki before retiring in December 2021, handed over his home to a Ukrainian woman and her two sons. The 35-year-old`s 16-year professional career took him to English club Southampton, Greuther Fuerth in Germany and FC Midtjylland in Denmark plus Swedish, Dutch and Greek clubs.

Asked where he intended to stay when he visits Finland this weekend, the tough-tackling former defensive midfielder laughed. "This is actually a win-win in a way, because I will probably stay at my mum`s place in a small village outside Vaasa, so me and my mum will spend maybe more time together because of this, which is only positive," he said.

Former Finland captain Tim Sparv wanted to do more than just donate to charities helping Ukrainians fleeing from the Russian invasion of their country so he handed over the keys of his apartment to a family seeking shelter in the Nordic nation.

Former Finland captain Tim Sparv wanted to do more than just donate to charities helping Ukrainians fleeing from the Russian invasion of their country so he handed over the keys of his apartment to a family seeking shelter in the Nordic nation. Some two million Ukrainians are estimated to have been displaced following the Russian invasion of Ukraine two weeks ago, with many heading west towards Poland, Hungary and Romania. "We were always asking how can we do more and this was a concrete way. I thought that millions of refugees are moving away from their homes. I have my apartment in Finland where, to be frank, I don`t spend that much time," he told Reuters in a telephone interview. ALSO READ | Beijing Paralympics: Ukrainian biathlete Laletina pulls out of event after father captured by Russian forces Sparv, who led Finland to a major tournament for the first time when they qualified for Euro 2020 and won the Finnish league with HJK Helsinki before retiring in December 2021, handed over his home to a Ukrainian woman and her two sons. The 35-year-old`s 16-year professional career took him to English club Southampton, Greuther Fuerth in Germany and FC Midtjylland in Denmark plus Swedish, Dutch and Greek clubs. Asked where he intended to stay when he visits Finland this weekend, the tough-tackling former defensive midfielder laughed. "This is actually a win-win in a way, because I will probably stay at my mum`s place in a small village outside Vaasa, so me and my mum will spend maybe more time together because of this, which is only positive," he said.

Former Finland captain Finn Sparv wins hearts, hands over apartment keys to Ukrainian refugees

As thousands of Ukrainians are pouring into the neighbouring countries as Russian attacks grows stronger, a 63-year-old Nepalese man has chosen to stay behind with his son to fight as all Ukrainian men aged 18 to 60 have been told to help the armed forces.&nbsp;

Jayant Kumar Nepal (63) left Nepal, his home country, and shifted to Ukraine in 1979 to do business. For 40 years, he has been living there with his wife and son, following which they have acquired Ukrainian citizenship.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION, Kumar said that he cannot leave his 36-year-old son behind alone to fight.&nbsp;

“In Ukraine, children are asked to join the army immediately after they are done with schooling. I live here with my son and wife. As Ukrainian men have been told to stay back to fight the Russians, I cannot leave my son behind. We are from Nepal but since 1979 we have been living in Ukraine,” Nepal told WION.&nbsp;

Jayant Kumar Nepal is currently living in Odessa, a port city on the Black Sea in southern Ukraine.&nbsp;

Russian forces have made progress in southern Ukraine since their February 24 invasion, overrunning the city of Kherson and besieging the port of Mariupol, but Odessa has so far been largely spared.

“Odessa is important for Russians and so they tried to reach the port city through ships but were knocked off by Ukrainian forces. So far, we are safe here and the situation is normal, but we are scared,” Nepal told WION.&nbsp;

“Even if we want, we cannot leave the country. They're not letting men leave,” he added.&nbsp;

Jayant Nepal has been coordinating with the Nepal Embassy in Berlin to help the Nepali nationals in war-tone Ukraine. He said that while almost “75 per cent of senior citizens have left Ukraine" he chooses to stay behind for his family.&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had earlier said Russian forces were preparing to bombard the city of Odessa.&nbsp;

"Rockets against Odessa? This will be a war crime,” Zelenskyy had said in a televised address.

As per the last update, over 500 Nepalese have left Ukraine and have sought shelter in neighbouring countries, mostly in Poland. However, many are still waiting to be rescued.&nbsp;

At the moment, the Nepal officials do not have the exact numbers of Nepali nationals currently living in Ukraine.

As thousands of Ukrainians are pouring into the neighbouring countries as Russian attacks grows stronger, a 63-year-old Nepalese man has chosen to stay behind with his son to fight as all Ukrainian men aged 18 to 60 have been told to help the armed forces.

As thousands of Ukrainians are pouring into the neighbouring countries as Russian attacks grows stronger, a 63-year-old Nepalese man has chosen to stay behind with his son to fight as all Ukrainian men aged 18 to 60 have been told to help the armed forces. Jayant Kumar Nepal (63) left Nepal, his home country, and shifted to Ukraine in 1979 to do business. For 40 years, he has been living there with his wife and son, following which they have acquired Ukrainian citizenship. Speaking to WION, Kumar said that he cannot leave his 36-year-old son behind alone to fight. “In Ukraine, children are asked to join the army immediately after they are done with schooling. I live here with my son and wife. As Ukrainian men have been told to stay back to fight the Russians, I cannot leave my son behind. We are from Nepal but since 1979 we have been living in Ukraine,” Nepal told WION. Jayant Kumar Nepal is currently living in Odessa, a port city on the Black Sea in southern Ukraine. Russian forces have made progress in southern Ukraine since their February 24 invasion, overrunning the city of Kherson and besieging the port of Mariupol, but Odessa has so far been largely spared. “Odessa is important for Russians and so they tried to reach the port city through ships but were knocked off by Ukrainian forces. So far, we are safe here and the situation is normal, but we are scared,” Nepal told WION. “Even if we want, we cannot leave the country. They're not letting men leave,” he added. Jayant Nepal has been coordinating with the Nepal Embassy in Berlin to help the Nepali nationals in war-tone Ukraine. He said that while almost “75 per cent of senior citizens have left Ukraine" he chooses to stay behind for his family. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had earlier said Russian forces were preparing to bombard the city of Odessa. "Rockets against Odessa? This will be a war crime,” Zelenskyy had said in a televised address. As per the last update, over 500 Nepalese have left Ukraine and have sought shelter in neighbouring countries, mostly in Poland. However, many are still waiting to be rescued. At the moment, the Nepal officials do not have the exact numbers of Nepali nationals currently living in Ukraine.

With men fighting in Ukraine, 63-year-old Nepalese father stays behind for his son

The family of Sainikhesh Ravichandran, an Indian student who has joined a pro-Ukrainian militia—Georgian National Legion—are extremely worried and anguished.

Hailing from Coimbatore in southern Tamil Nadu state, Sainikhesh—a student at the National Aerospace University in Ukraine's Kharkiv—is said to have volunteered to join the forces that are fighting against Russia.

When contacted his mother, Jhansi Lakshmi told WION that she last spoke to him around five days ago. However, she added that their family was extremely anguished and not in a position to divulge any further.

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This is the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Coimbatore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Coimbatore</a> residence of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/indianstudentsinukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#indianstudentsinukraine</a> Sainikhesh Ravichandran, who joined the militia to fight <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UkraineRussianWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UkraineRussianWar</a> 
 
Anguished, the boy's mother told me that she last spoke to him 5 days ago... 
 
Family is deeply pained, troubled..<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://t.co/kgeLG0RfGh">pic.twitter.com/kgeLG0RfGh</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1501105670573420547?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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According to reports, Indian intelligence officials had recently visited the family’s residence near Thudiyalur in western Coimbatore district and apprised them of the boy having&nbsp;joined the Ukraine forces.

It is being claimed that the 21-year-old had been keen to join the Indian armed forces when he was in his home country. Even his social media profile shows pictures of personnel dressed in military combat gear, brandishing an assault rifle.

There are also other pictures doing the rounds on social media purportedly showing the Indian student posing with the Ukrainian forces, all dressed in military combat gear.

However, WION could not independently verify the authenticity of the&nbsp;pictures of the boy in military fatigues.

This development comes at a time when India continues to evacuate thousands of its students from war-torn Ukraine and its contiguous nations via special flights operated by both private carriers and the Indian Air Force.

The family of Sainikhesh Ravichandran, an Indian student who has joined a pro-Ukrainian militia—Georgian National Legion—are extremely worried and anguished. Hailing from Coimbatore in southern Tamil Nadu state, Sainikhesh—a student at the National Aerospace University in Ukraine's Kharkiv—is said to have volunteered to join the forces that are fighting against Russia.

The family of Sainikhesh Ravichandran, an Indian student who has joined a pro-Ukrainian militia—Georgian National Legion—are extremely worried and anguished. Hailing from Coimbatore in southern Tamil Nadu state, Sainikhesh—a student at the National Aerospace University in Ukraine's Kharkiv—is said to have volunteered to join the forces that are fighting against Russia. When contacted his mother, Jhansi Lakshmi told WION that she last spoke to him around five days ago. However, she added that their family was extremely anguished and not in a position to divulge any further. This is the #Coimbatore residence of the #indianstudentsinukraine Sainikhesh Ravichandran, who joined the militia to fight #Russia #UkraineRussianWar Anguished, the boy's mother told me that she last spoke to him 5 days ago... Family is deeply pained, troubled..#Ukraine pic.twitter.com/kgeLG0RfGh — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) March 8, 2022 × According to reports, Indian intelligence officials had recently visited the family’s residence near Thudiyalur in western Coimbatore district and apprised them of the boy having joined the Ukraine forces. It is being claimed that the 21-year-old had been keen to join the Indian armed forces when he was in his home country. Even his social media profile shows pictures of personnel dressed in military combat gear, brandishing an assault rifle. There are also other pictures doing the rounds on social media purportedly showing the Indian student posing with the Ukrainian forces, all dressed in military combat gear. However, WION could not independently verify the authenticity of the pictures of the boy in military fatigues. This development comes at a time when India continues to evacuate thousands of its students from war-torn Ukraine and its contiguous nations via special flights operated by both private carriers and the Indian Air Force.

‘Spoke to him 5 days ago’, mother of Indian student who joined Ukraine militia tells WION

As part of its tactics to disarm Ukraine, the Russian defence ministry has announced that it will target Ukraine enterprises in the defence industry. Russia says that it will use high precision weapons to destroy defence factories in Ukraine.

Russia steps up assault on urban areas | Russia announces plans to strike defence factories

Russia announces plans to strike defence factories

Russia has announced fresh ceasefire to open humanitarian corridors in Ukraine to facilitate the evacuations of civilians from several Ukraine in cities. The Russian military will hold fire on open green corridors in several Ukraine cities including the capital Kyiv 7am onwards. Now Russian defence ministry confirmed that they hold temporary ceasefire to facilitate the evacuation from several Ukraine in cities.

Russia calls for a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine from 7 AM GMT to aid in evacuations

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?

From a huge Russian military convoy snaking its way to Kyiv to missile strikes and refugee&nbsp;crossings,&nbsp;commercial&nbsp;satellite&nbsp;imagery of the&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;conflict&nbsp;is helping lift the fog of war, illuminating for the public what was previously the domain of spy agencies.

Technologies that can pierce cloud cover and work at night are also coming to the fore, as a growing army of open-source intelligence analysts offer near real-time assessments of battleground developments.

"Governments are no longer the only place to go for high precision&nbsp;satellite&nbsp;data," Craig Nazareth, a former US intelligence officer turned scholar at the University of Arizona, told AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-sniper-killed-russias-top-general-say-reports-458776">Ukrainian sniper killed Russia's top general, say reports</a>

Thanks to the explosive growth of the private&nbsp;satellite&nbsp;industry, the volume of imagery is greater and turnaround time faster compared to prior conflicts, such as Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea.

While most Western governments have their own sophisticated&nbsp;satellite&nbsp;assets, their classified nature means the images can't be shared.

And with public trust in the US and British governments shaken after the 2003 Iraq war, third-party imagery has helped plug credibility gaps.

"They're saying 'Look, it's not us, this is actually happening, we're not making this up," Nazareth said.

Beyond helping shape narratives, the images are directly aiding Ukrainian forces in their war efforts.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-day-9-zelensky-accuses-russia-of-nuclear-terror-trying-to-repeat-the-chernobyl-disaster-458768">Ukraine crisis day 9: Zelensky accuses Russia of "nuclear terror", trying to "repeat" the Chernobyl disaster</a>

"Capella Space is working directly with the US and Ukrainian governments as well as other&nbsp;commercial&nbsp;entities to provide timely data and assistance around the ongoing&nbsp;conflict," Payam Banazadeh, the company's CEO confirmed in a statement to AFP.

Radar imagery

It was images taken by the San Francisco startup that led a group of independent researchers to realize the invasion was underway, before Vladimir Putin announced his "special military operations" in the early morning of February 24.

Hours before that speech, Jeffrey Lewis of the Middlebury Institute in California tweeted that Google Maps showed a "traffic jam" on the road from Belgorod, Russia to the Ukrainian border.

It was the precise spot Capella Space previously saw a convoy of military vehicles, and the congestion likely reflected Russian civilians getting stuck at roadblocks while military vehicles passed.

"Someone's on the move," he correctly hypothesised.

While most&nbsp;satellite&nbsp;imaging requires daylight and clear skies to capture images, Capella Space works with synthetic aperture radar (SAR) -- in which sensors shoot down energy, then record the amount that reflects back to them.

SAR "penetrates clouds and smoke, even in very large storm events or fires, so we can reliably capture clear and precise images of the Earth under almost any conditions," said Dan Getman, the company's vice president of product.

Another company whose pictures have been used heavily by news media is BlackSky, which released what it believes was among the first engagements of the war -- an attack on the Luhansk Thermal Power Station a little after 4:00 pm local time on February 23.

"We have a constellation of small&nbsp;satellites&nbsp;that can see dawn to dusk, not just at certain times of the day" the company's CEO Brian O'Toole told AFP.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/digital-weaponry-russia-using-deepfakes-to-spread-misinformation-against-ukraine-claims-report-458746">Digital weaponry: Russia using deepfakes to spread misinformation against Ukraine, claims report</a>

In traditional polar orbits, which fly north-south, a&nbsp;satellite&nbsp;could take only two snaps of a particular spot per day -- but BlackSky flies its hardware counter-clockwise to the planet's rotation, allowing them to revisit areas more often.

Clients receive the images within 90 minutes and are helped in interpreting them by AI-enabled software.

Future ethical concerns?

Perhaps the most grabbing image of the&nbsp;conflict&nbsp;so far has been a picture of the 40 miles (64 km) long Russian convoy, captured by Maxar, "the granddaddy of the industry," according to Chris Quilty, of Quilty Analytics.

He explained that, unlike traditional&nbsp;satellites&nbsp;that only point downwards, Maxar's&nbsp;satellites&nbsp;have gyroscopes that allow them to swivel and target with more precision.

The US government, through the National Reconnaissance Office, is one of Maxar's main clients, dictating "shutter time," which helps explain why the company and others are spending so much time over&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;right now.

But the selective release of what the&nbsp;satellites&nbsp;are seeing could eventually lead to ethical concerns.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine Conflict: Decoding Thursday's biggest developments

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Maxar and others "are inevitably capturing imagery of Ukrainian troop movements and defensive positions and that information is not being released to the public," said Quilty.

Looking ahead to future conflicts, "There is absolutely an ability to color the narrative depending upon what imagery is made available," he said.

From a huge Russian military convoy snaking its way to Kyiv to missile strikes and refugee crossings, commercial satellite imagery of the Ukraine conflict is helping lift the fog of war, illuminating for the public what was previously the domain of spy agencies.

From a huge Russian military convoy snaking its way to Kyiv to missile strikes and refugee crossings, commercial satellite imagery of the Ukraine conflict is helping lift the fog of war, illuminating for the public what was previously the domain of spy agencies. Technologies that can pierce cloud cover and work at night are also coming to the fore, as a growing army of open-source intelligence analysts offer near real-time assessments of battleground developments. "Governments are no longer the only place to go for high precision satellite data," Craig Nazareth, a former US intelligence officer turned scholar at the University of Arizona, told AFP. Also read | Ukrainian sniper killed Russia's top general, say reports Thanks to the explosive growth of the private satellite industry, the volume of imagery is greater and turnaround time faster compared to prior conflicts, such as Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea. While most Western governments have their own sophisticated satellite assets, their classified nature means the images can't be shared. And with public trust in the US and British governments shaken after the 2003 Iraq war, third-party imagery has helped plug credibility gaps. "They're saying 'Look, it's not us, this is actually happening, we're not making this up," Nazareth said. Beyond helping shape narratives, the images are directly aiding Ukrainian forces in their war efforts. Also read | Ukraine crisis day 9: Zelensky accuses Russia of "nuclear terror", trying to "repeat" the Chernobyl disaster "Capella Space is working directly with the US and Ukrainian governments as well as other commercial entities to provide timely data and assistance around the ongoing conflict," Payam Banazadeh, the company's CEO confirmed in a statement to AFP. Radar imagery It was images taken by the San Francisco startup that led a group of independent researchers to realize the invasion was underway, before Vladimir Putin announced his "special military operations" in the early morning of February 24. Hours before that speech, Jeffrey Lewis of the Middlebury Institute in California tweeted that Google Maps showed a "traffic jam" on the road from Belgorod, Russia to the Ukrainian border. It was the precise spot Capella Space previously saw a convoy of military vehicles, and the congestion likely reflected Russian civilians getting stuck at roadblocks while military vehicles passed. "Someone's on the move," he correctly hypothesised. While most satellite imaging requires daylight and clear skies to capture images, Capella Space works with synthetic aperture radar (SAR) -- in which sensors shoot down energy, then record the amount that reflects back to them. SAR "penetrates clouds and smoke, even in very large storm events or fires, so we can reliably capture clear and precise images of the Earth under almost any conditions," said Dan Getman, the company's vice president of product. Another company whose pictures have been used heavily by news media is BlackSky, which released what it believes was among the first engagements of the war -- an attack on the Luhansk Thermal Power Station a little after 4:00 pm local time on February 23. "We have a constellation of small satellites that can see dawn to dusk, not just at certain times of the day" the company's CEO Brian O'Toole told AFP. Also read | Digital weaponry: Russia using deepfakes to spread misinformation against Ukraine, claims report In traditional polar orbits, which fly north-south, a satellite could take only two snaps of a particular spot per day -- but BlackSky flies its hardware counter-clockwise to the planet's rotation, allowing them to revisit areas more often. Clients receive the images within 90 minutes and are helped in interpreting them by AI-enabled software. Future ethical concerns? Perhaps the most grabbing image of the conflict so far has been a picture of the 40 miles (64 km) long Russian convoy, captured by Maxar, "the granddaddy of the industry," according to Chris Quilty, of Quilty Analytics. He explained that, unlike traditional satellites that only point downwards, Maxar's satellites have gyroscopes that allow them to swivel and target with more precision. The US government, through the National Reconnaissance Office, is one of Maxar's main clients, dictating "shutter time," which helps explain why the company and others are spending so much time over Ukraine right now. But the selective release of what the satellites are seeing could eventually lead to ethical concerns. Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine Conflict: Decoding Thursday's biggest developments Maxar and others "are inevitably capturing imagery of Ukrainian troop movements and defensive positions and that information is not being released to the public," said Quilty. Looking ahead to future conflicts, "There is absolutely an ability to color the narrative depending upon what imagery is made available," he said.

This is how commercial satellites are shaping the Ukraine conflict

American brands like Apple, Google, Ford, and Harley-Davidson have stopped sales and distanced themselves from Russia

Ukraine-Russia Conflict: Apple stops sales in Russia

Russian invasion has claimed dozens of civilian lives, forced hundreds and thousands of Ukrainians to flee west and could, according to the EU, eventually displace up to seven million people. This is what the leaders had to say... #ukraine #russia #ukraineconflict

Russian-Ukraine Crisis: Who said what on the situation

FIFA&nbsp;and&nbsp;UEFA&nbsp;have taken a big step in the wake of the Ukraine crisis. In the aftermath of the sad turn of events in Ukraine, Russia's national teams and clubs have been suspended from international football until further notice.

With this, it seems likely that Russia will be excluded from this year's World Cup as well as from the women's Euro 2020 tournament.

"FIFA and UEFA have today decided together that all Russian teams, whether national representative teams or club teams, shall be suspended from participation in both FIFA and UEFA competitions until further notice," UEFA said in a statement. "These decisions were adopted today by the Bureau of the FIFA Council and the Executive Committee of UEFA, respectively the highest decision-making bodies of both institutions on such urgent matters," they added.

The move was very likely to take place soon as there has been a lot of noise in the sporting fraternity to ban Russian teams, or players, from various sports.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ioc-recommends-banning-participation-of-russian-belarusian-athletes-and-officials-in-international-events-457540">IOC recommends banning participation of Russian, Belarusian athletes and officials in international events</a>

For the unversed, Russia&nbsp;was scheduled to host Poland in a World Cup qualifying playoff on March 24. Hence&nbsp;if they remain suspended at that time, they would be out of the World Cup and unable to progress to the finals in Qatar, to be held later this year in November.

The Polish FA had made it clear that they will not&nbsp;play against the Russian team. Moreover,&nbsp;the Czech Republic and Sweden -- who are in the same playoff path&nbsp;--&nbsp;had also ruled out locking horns with Russia.

While everything is on the decline for Russian sports, since the Ukraine invasion, not all is lost. The&nbsp;only way Russia could still see them featuring in&nbsp;the playoffs would be courtesy a drastic&nbsp;improvement in the current state of affairs in Ukraine. Nonetheless, at present, their sporting icons are facing the music due to the country's attack on Ukraine.

"Both Presidents (of the soccer bodies) hope that the situation in Ukraine will improve significantly and rapidly so that football can again be a vector for unity and peace amongst people," UEFA said.

The organisation also pointed out that a further decision would be made at a later date about the impact on the women's Euro 2022 tournament, set to be held in England during mid-2022. The Russian team have qualified for the showpiece event.

FIFA and UEFA have taken a big step in the wake of the Ukraine crisis. In the aftermath of the sad turn of events in Ukraine, Russia's national teams and clubs have been suspended from international football until further notice.

FIFA and UEFA have taken a big step in the wake of the Ukraine crisis. In the aftermath of the sad turn of events in Ukraine, Russia's national teams and clubs have been suspended from international football until further notice. With this, it seems likely that Russia will be excluded from this year's World Cup as well as from the women's Euro 2020 tournament. "FIFA and UEFA have today decided together that all Russian teams, whether national representative teams or club teams, shall be suspended from participation in both FIFA and UEFA competitions until further notice," UEFA said in a statement. "These decisions were adopted today by the Bureau of the FIFA Council and the Executive Committee of UEFA, respectively the highest decision-making bodies of both institutions on such urgent matters," they added. The move was very likely to take place soon as there has been a lot of noise in the sporting fraternity to ban Russian teams, or players, from various sports. ALSO READ | IOC recommends banning participation of Russian, Belarusian athletes and officials in international events For the unversed, Russia was scheduled to host Poland in a World Cup qualifying playoff on March 24. Hence if they remain suspended at that time, they would be out of the World Cup and unable to progress to the finals in Qatar, to be held later this year in November. The Polish FA had made it clear that they will not play against the Russian team. Moreover, the Czech Republic and Sweden -- who are in the same playoff path -- had also ruled out locking horns with Russia. While everything is on the decline for Russian sports, since the Ukraine invasion, not all is lost. The only way Russia could still see them featuring in the playoffs would be courtesy a drastic improvement in the current state of affairs in Ukraine. Nonetheless, at present, their sporting icons are facing the music due to the country's attack on Ukraine. "Both Presidents (of the soccer bodies) hope that the situation in Ukraine will improve significantly and rapidly so that football can again be a vector for unity and peace amongst people," UEFA said. The organisation also pointed out that a further decision would be made at a later date about the impact on the women's Euro 2022 tournament, set to be held in England during mid-2022. The Russian team have qualified for the showpiece event.

FIFA, UEFA suspend Russia from international football until further notice in the wake of Ukraine crisis

As the conflict in Ukraine intensifies, Russian President Vladimir Putin has placed nuclear forces on high alert. It supposedly holds the world's biggest nuclear arsenal. With Putin's announcement, fear of an outbreak of a nuclear war has grown. But what are Russia's nuclear capabilities?

Fear of nuclear war grows. How big is Russia's arsenal?

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

Nigeria on Monday urged border officials in Ukraine and neighbouring countries to treat its citizens equally amid mounting reports of racial discrimination against Africans fleeing the Russian invasion.

Nigerians, Ghananians and other Africans, many of them students, have joined hundreds of thousands of people trying to escape Ukraine across borders into Poland and other nations.&nbsp;

"There have been unfortunate reports of Ukrainian police and security personnel refusing to allow Nigerians to board buses and trains heading towards the Ukraine-Poland border," said presidential advisor Garba Shehu in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/racially-disparate-treatment-new-jersey-governor-condemns-police-for-racist-behaviour-towards-a-teen-454190">'Racially disparate treatment': New Jersey governor condemns police for racist behaviour towards a teen</a>

"In one video widely circulating on social media, a Nigerian mother with her young baby was filmed being physically forced to give up her seat to another person."

He said there are also separate reports of Polish officials refusing Nigerian citizens entry into Poland from Ukraine.&nbsp;

"Those in official positions in security and border management will in most cases be experiencing impossible expectations in a situation they never expected," he said.&nbsp;

"For that reason, it is paramount that everyone is treated with dignity and without favour."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-2000-detained-in-anti-war-protests-across-russia-457250">More than 2000 detained in anti-war protests across Russia</a>

Poland's ambassador to Nigeria Joanna Tarnawska has dismissed claims of unfair treatement. &nbsp;

"Everybody receives equal treatment. I can assure you that I have reports that already some Nigerian nationals have crossed the border into Poland," she told local media.

She said Nigerians had 15 days to leave the country or find other arrangements. Even invalid documents were being accepted to cross the border and Covid-19 restrictions were lifted, she said.

The Ukrainian embassy in Nigeria could not immediately be reached for comments.

Watch |&nbsp;UK PM Boris Johnson faces new allegations of racism in his party

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-pm-boris-johnson-faces-new-allegations-of-racism-in-his-party-447235/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The European Union on Sunday moved to coordinate management of hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians fleeing the Russian attack.

Around 400,000 Ukrainians have crossed into the EU since the start of the offensive on Thursday, according to an AFP tally. Half of them entered Poland, its government said.

Nigeria on Monday urged border officials in Ukraine and neighbouring countries to treat its citizens equally amid mounting reports of racial discrimination against Africans fleeing the Russian invasion.

Nigeria on Monday urged border officials in Ukraine and neighbouring countries to treat its citizens equally amid mounting reports of racial discrimination against Africans fleeing the Russian invasion. Nigerians, Ghananians and other Africans, many of them students, have joined hundreds of thousands of people trying to escape Ukraine across borders into Poland and other nations. "There have been unfortunate reports of Ukrainian police and security personnel refusing to allow Nigerians to board buses and trains heading towards the Ukraine-Poland border," said presidential advisor Garba Shehu in a statement. Also read | 'Racially disparate treatment': New Jersey governor condemns police for racist behaviour towards a teen "In one video widely circulating on social media, a Nigerian mother with her young baby was filmed being physically forced to give up her seat to another person." He said there are also separate reports of Polish officials refusing Nigerian citizens entry into Poland from Ukraine. "Those in official positions in security and border management will in most cases be experiencing impossible expectations in a situation they never expected," he said. "For that reason, it is paramount that everyone is treated with dignity and without favour." Also read | More than 2000 detained in anti-war protests across Russia Poland's ambassador to Nigeria Joanna Tarnawska has dismissed claims of unfair treatement. "Everybody receives equal treatment. I can assure you that I have reports that already some Nigerian nationals have crossed the border into Poland," she told local media. She said Nigerians had 15 days to leave the country or find other arrangements. Even invalid documents were being accepted to cross the border and Covid-19 restrictions were lifted, she said. The Ukrainian embassy in Nigeria could not immediately be reached for comments. Watch | UK PM Boris Johnson faces new allegations of racism in his party The European Union on Sunday moved to coordinate management of hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians fleeing the Russian attack. Around 400,000 Ukrainians have crossed into the EU since the start of the offensive on Thursday, according to an AFP tally. Half of them entered Poland, its government said.

Nigeria condemns reports of racism at Ukraine border

Protests are being held across continents against the war in Ukraine since the Russian invasion which entered the third day on Saturday, while Ukrainians living abroad held prayers and vigils in their host countries and hoped for an end to the violence.

As Russia pounded Ukrainian cities including its capital Kyiv with artillery and air strikes, people rallied from Australia to Argentina against the war unleashed by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-war-will-last-ukraine-apartment-block-in-kyiv-hit-by-missiles-456699">'This&nbsp;war&nbsp;will last': Ukraine apartment block in Kyiv hit by missiles</a>

Protesters gathered across Australia and New Zealand to rally against the Russian invasion of Ukraine. One of the worst rains in recent memory didn't deter demonstrators from carrying Ukrainian flags and signs in a protest in Sydney's city centre. A similar rally was held in the New Zealand city of Christchurch, where demonstrators chanted "stop Putin."

<img alt="Protesters hold banners during a rally against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, in Tokyo, Japan, February 26, 2022." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9a2256fb-ca8b-4de9-831d-19355fb1dba5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/tokyo%20protest.jpg" />

<h5>Protesters hold banners during a rally against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, in Tokyo, Japan, February 26, 2022. (Image courtesy: Reuters)</h5>

Hundreds of people gathered in Japanese capital Tokyo to protest Russia's invasion while Ukrainians in the South Korean city of Seoul gathered at a cathedral on Saturday to pray for their country. At Saint Nicholas Cathedral, expatriate Ukrainians along with Ukrainian Ambassador Dmytro Ponomarenko took part in a prayer service for peace and safety in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Protests were held inside Russia also, including in Moscow and St Petersburg. More than 1,000 people have been arrested in protests across the country. Residents laid flowers outside Ukraine's Embassy in Moscow as Russian troops bore down on Kyiv on Friday. They had gathered in solidarity in the Russian capital calling on Putin to stop the invasion of a democratic country.

The Ukrainian flag is flying alongside the Union Jack above 10 Downing Street as a show of solidarity while the blue and yellow colours of the Ukrainian flag illuminated the French landmark Eiffel Tower in Paris. The famous Parisian monument will be illuminated in yellow and blue for three nights in a row.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-not-surrendering-says-president-top-developments-in-russia-ukraine-war-right-now-456681">Ukraine not surrendering, says president: Top developments in Russia-Ukraine war right now</a>

Thousands protested outside Russian Embassy in Athens, Greece, as a similar number rallied outside Downing Street in London, chanting “Putin is a killer” and “Putin is a terrorist”.

Hundreds took to the street in Madrid, Spain against the war in Ukraine while in Berlin, Germany, choirs and singers gathered at Brandenburg Gate in support of Ukraine.

Ukrainians living in Italy and Italians gathered in front of Rome's city hall to demand an immediate end of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Accompanied by Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri the crowd marches with candlelights toward the Colosseum lit with the colours of the Ukrainian flag.&nbsp;

<img alt="30,000 people rallied in the Georgian capital Tbilisi to protest Russia's invasion of Ukraine. " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a0cbbc48-96a4-4988-b5af-93cb62603a09" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Georgia_0.jpg" />

<h5>30,000 people rallied in the Georgian capital Tbilisi to protest Russia's invasion of Ukraine. (Image courtesy: Twitter)</h5>

Some 30,000 people rallied in the Georgian capital Tbilisi to protest Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Huge crowds gathered outside the parliament buildings, also calling for the resignation of Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili who said that Tbilisi "will not join" the economic and financial sanctions the West has imposed on Russia over the invasion.&nbsp;

Protests were held in South America too. Many Argentina residents marched towards Russia's embassy in Buenos Aires on Friday as Russian troops were bearing down on Kyiv. They gathered in Argentina's capital calling on President Putin to stop the invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

In Brazil, residents protested in Sao Paulo as Russian troops bore down on Kyiv on Friday.They had gathered in solidarity, calling on President Putin to stop the invasion of a democratic country. The demonstrators, including Ukrainians, Russians and Georgians living in Brazil, gathered on the main avenue of Sao Paulo, to protest against the Russian invasion.

Another war, another refugee flow

Traffic built up along the western Ukraine border with Poland near the town of Krakovets as Ukrainians fled their homes amid the Russian military attacks. Ukrainian refugees arriving in Poland on buses on Friday night, were welcomed by local volunteers.

<img alt="According to the United Nations, tens of thousands of people have fled Ukraine since the start of the Russian invasion two days ago." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba286363-ccd8-4b89-a409-42128552c2d8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/mother%20ukraine.jpg" />

<h5>According to the United Nations, tens of thousands of people have fled Ukraine since the start of the Russian invasion two days ago.&nbsp;(Image courtesy: AFP)</h5>

According to the United Nations, tens of thousands of people have fled Ukraine since the start of the Russian invasion two days ago.&nbsp; 
Dozens of vehicles formed a 6.5km queue at Ukraine's border with Romania on Friday (February 25), captured by satellite images.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: How the war has ripped apart the lives of Ukrainians

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-the-war-has-ripped-apart-the-lives-of-ukrainians-456599/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Cars and trucks lined the road towards the Siret border crossing in images released by Maxar Technologies.

Those seen crossing borders were mostly women and children, since Ukraine has banned men of fighting age from leaving.

(With inputs from agencies)

Protests are being held across continents against the war in Ukraine since the Russian invasion which entered the third day on Saturday, while Ukrainians living abroad held prayers and vigils in their host countries and hoped for an end to the violence.

Protests are being held across continents against the war in Ukraine since the Russian invasion which entered the third day on Saturday, while Ukrainians living abroad held prayers and vigils in their host countries and hoped for an end to the violence. As Russia pounded Ukrainian cities including its capital Kyiv with artillery and air strikes, people rallied from Australia to Argentina against the war unleashed by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Also read | 'This war will last': Ukraine apartment block in Kyiv hit by missiles Protesters gathered across Australia and New Zealand to rally against the Russian invasion of Ukraine. One of the worst rains in recent memory didn't deter demonstrators from carrying Ukrainian flags and signs in a protest in Sydney's city centre. A similar rally was held in the New Zealand city of Christchurch, where demonstrators chanted "stop Putin." Protesters hold banners during a rally against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, in Tokyo, Japan, February 26, 2022. (Image courtesy: Reuters) Hundreds of people gathered in Japanese capital Tokyo to protest Russia's invasion while Ukrainians in the South Korean city of Seoul gathered at a cathedral on Saturday to pray for their country. At Saint Nicholas Cathedral, expatriate Ukrainians along with Ukrainian Ambassador Dmytro Ponomarenko took part in a prayer service for peace and safety in Ukraine. Protests were held inside Russia also, including in Moscow and St Petersburg. More than 1,000 people have been arrested in protests across the country. Residents laid flowers outside Ukraine's Embassy in Moscow as Russian troops bore down on Kyiv on Friday. They had gathered in solidarity in the Russian capital calling on Putin to stop the invasion of a democratic country. The Ukrainian flag is flying alongside the Union Jack above 10 Downing Street as a show of solidarity while the blue and yellow colours of the Ukrainian flag illuminated the French landmark Eiffel Tower in Paris. The famous Parisian monument will be illuminated in yellow and blue for three nights in a row. Also read | Ukraine not surrendering, says president: Top developments in Russia-Ukraine war right now Thousands protested outside Russian Embassy in Athens, Greece, as a similar number rallied outside Downing Street in London, chanting “Putin is a killer” and “Putin is a terrorist”. Hundreds took to the street in Madrid, Spain against the war in Ukraine while in Berlin, Germany, choirs and singers gathered at Brandenburg Gate in support of Ukraine. Ukrainians living in Italy and Italians gathered in front of Rome's city hall to demand an immediate end of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Accompanied by Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri the crowd marches with candlelights toward the Colosseum lit with the colours of the Ukrainian flag. 30,000 people rallied in the Georgian capital Tbilisi to protest Russia's invasion of Ukraine. (Image courtesy: Twitter) Some 30,000 people rallied in the Georgian capital Tbilisi to protest Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Huge crowds gathered outside the parliament buildings, also calling for the resignation of Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili who said that Tbilisi "will not join" the economic and financial sanctions the West has imposed on Russia over the invasion. Protests were held in South America too. Many Argentina residents marched towards Russia's embassy in Buenos Aires on Friday as Russian troops were bearing down on Kyiv. They gathered in Argentina's capital calling on President Putin to stop the invasion of Ukraine. In Brazil, residents protested in Sao Paulo as Russian troops bore down on Kyiv on Friday.They had gathered in solidarity, calling on President Putin to stop the invasion of a democratic country. The demonstrators, including Ukrainians, Russians and Georgians living in Brazil, gathered on the main avenue of Sao Paulo, to protest against the Russian invasion. Another war, another refugee flow Traffic built up along the western Ukraine border with Poland near the town of Krakovets as Ukrainians fled their homes amid the Russian military attacks. Ukrainian refugees arriving in Poland on buses on Friday night, were welcomed by local volunteers. According to the United Nations, tens of thousands of people have fled Ukraine since the start of the Russian invasion two days ago. (Image courtesy: AFP) According to the United Nations, tens of thousands of people have fled Ukraine since the start of the Russian invasion two days ago. Dozens of vehicles formed a 6.5km queue at Ukraine's border with Romania on Friday (February 25), captured by satellite images. Watch | Gravitas: How the war has ripped apart the lives of Ukrainians Cars and trucks lined the road towards the Siret border crossing in images released by Maxar Technologies. Those seen crossing borders were mostly women and children, since Ukraine has banned men of fighting age from leaving. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine-Russia conflict: Anti-war protests, solidarity events held across continents

Russia's Andrey Rublev has sent a strong message to his own country after his tough and riveting semi-final encounter versus&nbsp;Poland's Hubert Hurkacz, whom he defeated 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 (5) in the ongoing Dubai Tennis Championships on Friday (February 25).

Using the common and old tradition between tennis players to sign on camera lens after a match, Rublev wrote, "No War Please" to make his message spread amid the Russia-Ukraine crisis. For the unversed,&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;recently launched&nbsp;a military attack on&nbsp;Ukraine which has made the headlines and is&nbsp;now gaining eyeballs with each passing day. The sports sector has also been hit by the crisis, with the UEFA Champions League final being shifted to Paris from St Petersburg in the wake of the crisis. In addition, the Russian Grand Prix has also been cancelled.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-world-no1-daniil-medvedev-and-rafael-nadal-renew-rivalry-in-acapulco-semis-456555">New world No.1 Daniil Medvedev and Rafael Nadal renew rivalry in Acapulco semis</a>

After booking his place in the final in the Dubai Tennis C'ships, the 24-year-old Rublev's message on camera has spread like wildfire. Here's the video of him writing on the camera lens:&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/AndreyRublev97?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AndreyRublev97</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ul9Hg8SRvS">pic.twitter.com/Ul9Hg8SRvS</a>
— ATP Tour (@atptour) <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour/status/1497253478586015751?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-moves-champions-league-final-from-st-petersburg-to-paris-amid-russia-ukraine-conflict-456427">UEFA moves Champions League final from St Petersburg to Paris amid Russia-Ukraine conflict</a>

Earlier, Russia's Daniill Medvedev -- who moved to the top spot in the ATP rankings -- also shared his views on the Russia-Ukraine crisis. Medvedev, who is competing in the Mexican Open said, "Watching the news from home, waking up here in Mexico, was not easy. By being a tennis player, I want to promote peace all over the world. We play in so many different countries. It’s just not easy to hear all this news. I’m all for peace," he added.

Russia's Andrey Rublev has sent a strong message to his own country after his tough and riveting semi-final encounter versus Poland's Hubert Hurkacz, whom he defeated 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 (5) in the ongoing Dubai Tennis Championships on Friday (February 25).

Russia's Andrey Rublev has sent a strong message to his own country after his tough and riveting semi-final encounter versus Poland's Hubert Hurkacz, whom he defeated 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 (5) in the ongoing Dubai Tennis Championships on Friday (February 25). Using the common and old tradition between tennis players to sign on camera lens after a match, Rublev wrote, "No War Please" to make his message spread amid the Russia-Ukraine crisis. For the unversed, Russia recently launched a military attack on Ukraine which has made the headlines and is now gaining eyeballs with each passing day. The sports sector has also been hit by the crisis, with the UEFA Champions League final being shifted to Paris from St Petersburg in the wake of the crisis. In addition, the Russian Grand Prix has also been cancelled. ALSO READ | New world No.1 Daniil Medvedev and Rafael Nadal renew rivalry in Acapulco semis After booking his place in the final in the Dubai Tennis C'ships, the 24-year-old Rublev's message on camera has spread like wildfire. Here's the video of him writing on the camera lens: ❤️@AndreyRublev97 pic.twitter.com/Ul9Hg8SRvS — ATP Tour (@atptour) February 25, 2022 × ALSO READ | UEFA moves Champions League final from St Petersburg to Paris amid Russia-Ukraine conflict Earlier, Russia's Daniill Medvedev -- who moved to the top spot in the ATP rankings -- also shared his views on the Russia-Ukraine crisis. Medvedev, who is competing in the Mexican Open said, "Watching the news from home, waking up here in Mexico, was not easy. By being a tennis player, I want to promote peace all over the world. We play in so many different countries. It’s just not easy to hear all this news. I’m all for peace," he added.

Russia's Andrey Rublev writes 'No War Please' on camera lens after tough semi-final win in Dubai - watch

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

As Russia has invaded Ukraine, there's a high level of distress and chaos around. Here's a compilation of some visuals from Ukraine. #Ukraine #Russia #UkraineCrisis

Ukraine Under attack - The visuals of Distress and Chaos | Ukraine crisis

A look at the impact on commodities and markets amid the Russia-Ukraine crisis.

Ukraine-Russia conflict: Impact on commodities, markets

German racing driver Sebastian Vettel has said he will not compete in Formula One`s Russian Grand Prix this year amid the ongoing military operations of Russia in Ukraine. The four-time Formula One champion said he was "shocked" to see what is happening."In my personal opinion, I woke up to this morning`s news, shocked, so I don`t know. I think it`s horrible to see what is happening," Sky Sports quoted Vettel as saying at a press conference during pre-season testing.

"Obviously if you look at the calendar we have a race scheduled in Russia. For myself, my own opinion is I should not go, I will not go. I think it`s wrong to race in the country," he added. Vettel said he has made his decision and when a country is at war it is not right to compete in a race there."I`m sure it`s something that we will talk about, but personally I`m just so shocked and sad to see what is going on. So we will see going forward, but I think my decision is already made," said Vettel.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-calls-extraordinary-meeting-to-discuss-situation-in-the-wake-of-russia-ukraine-crisis-456057">UEFA calls extraordinary meeting to discuss situation in the wake of Russia-Ukraine crisis</a>

"When a country is at war it is not right to race there," he added. Leaders from a number of countries including the UK, the US, Canada and the European Union have condemned Russia`s military operations in the Donbas region.

German racing driver Sebastian Vettel has said he will not compete in Formula One`s Russian Grand Prix this year amid the ongoing military operations of Russia in Ukraine.

German racing driver Sebastian Vettel has said he will not compete in Formula One`s Russian Grand Prix this year amid the ongoing military operations of Russia in Ukraine. The four-time Formula One champion said he was "shocked" to see what is happening."In my personal opinion, I woke up to this morning`s news, shocked, so I don`t know. I think it`s horrible to see what is happening," Sky Sports quoted Vettel as saying at a press conference during pre-season testing. "Obviously if you look at the calendar we have a race scheduled in Russia. For myself, my own opinion is I should not go, I will not go. I think it`s wrong to race in the country," he added. Vettel said he has made his decision and when a country is at war it is not right to compete in a race there."I`m sure it`s something that we will talk about, but personally I`m just so shocked and sad to see what is going on. So we will see going forward, but I think my decision is already made," said Vettel. ALSO READ | UEFA calls extraordinary meeting to discuss situation in the wake of Russia-Ukraine crisis "When a country is at war it is not right to race there," he added. Leaders from a number of countries including the UK, the US, Canada and the European Union have condemned Russia`s military operations in the Donbas region.

Ukraine conflict: German racing driver Sebastian Vettel says he will not race at 2022 Russian GP

As tension escalates between Russia and Ukraine, celebrities from around the world have started reacting to the escalating crisis in eastern Europe. This after Russia announced a “full-scale invasion” into Ukraine.&nbsp;

In the morning, Russian president Vladimir Putin announced a “special military operation” in the east of the country. Explosions were shortly reported after his speech in the outskirts of Kharkiv, Kramatorsk and Mariupol, as well as the capital Kiev.

The crisis has led to celebrities reacting on the same including Stephen King, Piers Morgan and Cardi B.

Stephen King wrote, “What most of us learned as kids on the playground: You don’t stand by while a big kid beats up a little kid. You might take a punch or two making the big kid stop, but that’s the right thing to do.”

Earlier, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/cardi-b-weighs-in-on-russia-ukraine-crisis-not-on-nato-or-russian-side-455756">Cardi B</a> said, "Wish these world leaders [would] stop tripping about power and really think about who's really getting affected (citizens) besides the whole world is in a crisis. War, sanctions, invasions should be the last thing these leaders should worry about.”

Former Good Morning Britain presenter Morgan wrote, “This is an act of war by a bully-boy thug who doesn’t think the rest of the world has the guts or will to stop him... Shameful.”

Annie Lennox wrote, “What kind of ‘price’ must ordinary people pay for the nightmarish madness and brutality of ‘invasion’ and ‘warfare’? Or is this just an elaborate hoax? A scare tactic? A threat? Apologies for this dark reflection, but I’ve had the privilege of living in a ‘peaceful’ context since I was born - a decade after the end of WW2 – 67 years in total. I don’t take this for granted in any way and therefore find the notion of ‘war’ to be unacceptable repugnant barbarism.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/the-simpsons-had-predicted-the-russia-ukraine-crisis-way-back-in-1998heres-proof-455716" hreflang="en">The Simpsons had predicted the Russia-Ukraine crisis way back in 1998.Here's proof</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-oscars-2022-major-awards-to-not-go-live-like-before-find-out-details-inside-455580" hreflang="en">Oscars 2022: Major awards to not go live like before? Find out details inside</a>

As tension escalates between Russia and Ukraine, celebrities from around the world have started reacting to the escalating crisis in eastern Europe. This after Russia announced a “full-scale invasion” into Ukraine.

As tension escalates between Russia and Ukraine, celebrities from around the world have started reacting to the escalating crisis in eastern Europe. This after Russia announced a “full-scale invasion” into Ukraine. In the morning, Russian president Vladimir Putin announced a “special military operation” in the east of the country. Explosions were shortly reported after his speech in the outskirts of Kharkiv, Kramatorsk and Mariupol, as well as the capital Kiev. The crisis has led to celebrities reacting on the same including Stephen King, Piers Morgan and Cardi B. Stephen King wrote, “What most of us learned as kids on the playground: You don’t stand by while a big kid beats up a little kid. You might take a punch or two making the big kid stop, but that’s the right thing to do.” Earlier, Cardi B said, "Wish these world leaders [would] stop tripping about power and really think about who's really getting affected (citizens) besides the whole world is in a crisis. War, sanctions, invasions should be the last thing these leaders should worry about.” Former Good Morning Britain presenter Morgan wrote, “This is an act of war by a bully-boy thug who doesn’t think the rest of the world has the guts or will to stop him... Shameful.” Annie Lennox wrote, “What kind of ‘price’ must ordinary people pay for the nightmarish madness and brutality of ‘invasion’ and ‘warfare’? Or is this just an elaborate hoax? A scare tactic? A threat? Apologies for this dark reflection, but I’ve had the privilege of living in a ‘peaceful’ context since I was born - a decade after the end of WW2 – 67 years in total. I don’t take this for granted in any way and therefore find the notion of ‘war’ to be unacceptable repugnant barbarism.” The Simpsons had predicted the Russia-Ukraine crisis way back in 1998.Here's proof Oscars 2022: Major awards to not go live like before? Find out details inside

Ukraine-Russia conflict: Stephen King, Piers Morgan & other celebs react

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

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

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

Impact of Russia-Ukraine crisis on prices of commodities

Several European leaders continued to maintain caution as Russia announced that it is withdrawing some of its troops from the Ukrainian border.

United Kingdon Prime Minister Boris Johnson welcomed the announcement saying that talks between Russia and Western powers have shown “signs of a diplomatic opening” to avert a conflict.

But he said that Russia was “sending mixed signals” on the de-escalation process, as he claimed to have intelligence reports that Russian forces were “being brought closer to the border” with Ukraine.

Intelligence suggests Russia is also constructing field hospitals near the border, he added, in what could only be interpreted as “as preparation for an invasion”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-pulls-back-some-troops-from-ukraine-border-kyiv-says-we-will-see-then-believe-453452" hreflang="en">Russia pulls back some troops from Ukraine border</a>

Germany’s foreign minister Annalena Baerbock said that Russia must back the announcements with “action”.

"Every real step of de-escalation would be a reason for hope. For now, there are only announcements, and these must now be followed by action," she said at a press conference following talks with her Spanish counterpart in Madrid.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-nationals-including-students-should-leave-ukraine-says-government-advisory-453383" hreflang="en">Indians including students may consider leaving Ukraine, says govt advisory</a>

NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg said Russia’s announcement of a troop withdrawal gives grounds for optimism, but the alliance has yet to see real de-escalation.

“This gives the grounds for cautious optimism, but so far we have not seen any sign of de-escalation on the ground,” Stoltenberg briefed reporters ahead of a meeting of NATO defence ministers on Wednesday.

“So far, we have not seen any de-escalation on the ground, not seen any signs of reduced Russian military presence on the borders of Ukraine, but we will continue to monitor,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Several European leaders continued to maintain caution as Russia announced that it is withdrawing some of its troops from the Ukrainian border. United Kingdon Prime Minister Boris Johnson welcomed the announcement saying that talks between Russia and Western powers have shown “signs of a diplomatic opening” to avert a conflict.

Several European leaders continued to maintain caution as Russia announced that it is withdrawing some of its troops from the Ukrainian border. United Kingdon Prime Minister Boris Johnson welcomed the announcement saying that talks between Russia and Western powers have shown “signs of a diplomatic opening” to avert a conflict. But he said that Russia was “sending mixed signals” on the de-escalation process, as he claimed to have intelligence reports that Russian forces were “being brought closer to the border” with Ukraine. Intelligence suggests Russia is also constructing field hospitals near the border, he added, in what could only be interpreted as “as preparation for an invasion”. Also read | Russia pulls back some troops from Ukraine border Germany’s foreign minister Annalena Baerbock said that Russia must back the announcements with “action”. "Every real step of de-escalation would be a reason for hope. For now, there are only announcements, and these must now be followed by action," she said at a press conference following talks with her Spanish counterpart in Madrid. Also read | Indians including students may consider leaving Ukraine, says govt advisory NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg said Russia’s announcement of a troop withdrawal gives grounds for optimism, but the alliance has yet to see real de-escalation. “This gives the grounds for cautious optimism, but so far we have not seen any sign of de-escalation on the ground,” Stoltenberg briefed reporters ahead of a meeting of NATO defence ministers on Wednesday. “So far, we have not seen any de-escalation on the ground, not seen any signs of reduced Russian military presence on the borders of Ukraine, but we will continue to monitor,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Cautious optimism': Europe wary of Russia’s drawdown from Ukraine

Russia on Saturday said that it has recalled some of its diplomatic staff from Ukraine over fears of provocations from Kyiv and its allies in response to similar actions by the United States, the United Kingdom and other countries.

"Obviously, this is due to the fact that our Western colleagues apparently know something that we do not know, or are preparing something,” Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko said in an interview with TASS news agency.

“Given this situation, we also reserve the right to take the necessary measures to ensure the safety of our diplomats in Ukraine, as well as their protection from possible provocations by the Kyiv regime or from third countries, even organizing their evacuation home," he added.

Earlier this week, foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said after meeting UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss that Russia may advise non-essential workers to leave diplomatic missions in Ukraine because it wasn’t clear “what kind of ideas our Anglo-Saxon colleagues have.”

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/leave-ukraine-within-48-hours-as-russian-attack-can-come-any-time-us-tells-americans-452534" hreflang="en">Leave Ukraine within 48 hours as attack can come any time, US tells Americans</a>&nbsp;

There have been fears of a Russian invasion after Moscow reportedly amassed over 100,000 troops near the Ukrainian borders.

The West and Ukraine allege that Russia is planning to launch an attack similar to the one carried out in 2014 when Moscow annexed Ukraine’s Crimea region.

Russia’s move comes hours after the US announced the evacuation of its staff from Ukraine over fears of Russian invasion, claiming that it could happen “any time now.”

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-evacuate-embassy-in-ukraine-after-intelligence-inputs-over-imminent-russian-invasion-452554">&nbsp;US to evacuate embassy in Ukraine after intelligence inputs over imminent Russian invasion</a>

White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan told reporters that such an attack would likely begin with airstrikes and missile attacks and urged Americans in Ukraine to leave the country “as soon as possible.”

Meanwhile, Russia’s navy launched large-scale exercises in the Black Sea even as Moscow dismissed as “hysteria” a US warning that a Russian attack on Ukraine could begin within days.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Saturday said that it has recalled some of its diplomatic staff from Ukraine over fears of provocations from Kyiv and its allies in response to similar actions by the United States, the United Kingdom and other countries.

Russia on Saturday said that it has recalled some of its diplomatic staff from Ukraine over fears of provocations from Kyiv and its allies in response to similar actions by the United States, the United Kingdom and other countries. "Obviously, this is due to the fact that our Western colleagues apparently know something that we do not know, or are preparing something,” Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko said in an interview with TASS news agency. “Given this situation, we also reserve the right to take the necessary measures to ensure the safety of our diplomats in Ukraine, as well as their protection from possible provocations by the Kyiv regime or from third countries, even organizing their evacuation home," he added. Earlier this week, foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said after meeting UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss that Russia may advise non-essential workers to leave diplomatic missions in Ukraine because it wasn’t clear “what kind of ideas our Anglo-Saxon colleagues have.” Also Read: Leave Ukraine within 48 hours as attack can come any time, US tells Americans There have been fears of a Russian invasion after Moscow reportedly amassed over 100,000 troops near the Ukrainian borders. The West and Ukraine allege that Russia is planning to launch an attack similar to the one carried out in 2014 when Moscow annexed Ukraine’s Crimea region. Russia’s move comes hours after the US announced the evacuation of its staff from Ukraine over fears of Russian invasion, claiming that it could happen “any time now.” Also read | US to evacuate embassy in Ukraine after intelligence inputs over imminent Russian invasion White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan told reporters that such an attack would likely begin with airstrikes and missile attacks and urged Americans in Ukraine to leave the country “as soon as possible.” Meanwhile, Russia’s navy launched large-scale exercises in the Black Sea even as Moscow dismissed as “hysteria” a US warning that a Russian attack on Ukraine could begin within days. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia pulls out some diplomatic staff from Ukraine as tensions with West intensify

What options does Ukraine have? Can it take a tougher line against Russia? Palki Sharma spoke to Independent Journalist Olga Tokariuk & Political Consultant Andrii Telizhenko to understand the sentiments on ground.

Gravitas Ukraine Direct: What are Ukraine's options? | WION interviews Olga Tokariuk & Andrii Telizhenko

As the threat of Russia invading Ukraine looms the United States has painted the most ominous picture till date. According to some senior officials in Washington DC, Russia has assembled about 70 percent of its military capabilities which is needed for a full-scale invasion

Ukraine Conflict: Support pours in from US, India Germany among others