Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

After reports emerged Russia was set to send Syrian fighters to Ukraine, the Kremlin said on Friday that Presiden Putin had backed the plan.

"Most of those who want and who asked to fight are citizens of Middle East countries and Syrians," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

The development comes amid fierce fighting between Ukrainian forces and the Russian Army. Reports claim the Russian forces have moved near the capital city amid heavy bombardment in the suburbs.

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Russia's defence minister reportedly claimed 16,000 volunteers from the Middle East were ready to fight in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia continued its attack on various cities targeting the central city of Dnipro including Kharkiv.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said trucks carrying food and medicine to Mariupol was hit by Russian tanks even as the city's mayor said over 1,000 civilians were killed amid constant Russian shelling.

Watch:&nbsp;All Russian banks, payment cards and ATM's blocked

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Ukrainian authorities have evacuated people in large numbers from cities hit by Russian attacks as President Zelensky informed that at least 100,000 people have evacuated from areas surrounding Kyiv which has come under heavy fire from Russian forces in the last few days.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-ukraine-then-and-now-images-from-1970s-and-after-russian-invasion-461073">In Pics | Ukraine then and now, images from 1970s and after Russian invasion</a>

Fighting is also continuing in Chernihiv, Severodonetsk in the east even as Russia promised open humanitarian corridors for civilians every day. The UN said over two and a half million people have aleady fled the country since President Putin's forces attacked Ukraine on February 24.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. After reports emerged Russia was set to send Syrian fighters to Ukraine, the Kremlin said on Friday that Presiden Putin had backed the plan. "Most of those who want and who asked to fight are citizens of Middle East countries and Syrians," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. The development comes amid fierce fighting between Ukrainian forces and the Russian Army. Reports claim the Russian forces have moved near the capital city amid heavy bombardment in the suburbs. Also Read in Pics: Ukraine claims to capture Russia's Pantsir-S1 missile system; is it a rich catch? Russia's defence minister reportedly claimed 16,000 volunteers from the Middle East were ready to fight in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia continued its attack on various cities targeting the central city of Dnipro including Kharkiv. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said trucks carrying food and medicine to Mariupol was hit by Russian tanks even as the city's mayor said over 1,000 civilians were killed amid constant Russian shelling. Watch: All Russian banks, payment cards and ATM's blocked Ukrainian authorities have evacuated people in large numbers from cities hit by Russian attacks as President Zelensky informed that at least 100,000 people have evacuated from areas surrounding Kyiv which has come under heavy fire from Russian forces in the last few days. In Pics | Ukraine then and now, images from 1970s and after Russian invasion Fighting is also continuing in Chernihiv, Severodonetsk in the east even as Russia promised open humanitarian corridors for civilians every day. The UN said over two and a half million people have aleady fled the country since President Putin's forces attacked Ukraine on February 24. (With inputs from Agencies)

Syrians to fight in Ukraine, confirms Russia

Ukraine claims to capture Russia's Pantsir-S1 missile system; is it a rich catch?

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

As the strike at children's hospital in Mariupol was condemned worldwide, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov claimed it was a base for the ultra-radical Azov battalion.

"This maternity hospital has long been occupied by the Azov Battalion and other radicals. They drove out the women in labour, nurses and general staff. It was the base of the ultra-radical Azov battalion," Lavrov said after Mariupol's&nbsp;maternity hospital was attacked.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky called the attack a&nbsp;"war crime". The Ukraine President claimed it was a &nbsp;"direct strike by Russian troops" even as Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez also accused Russia of "war crimes".

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"We're seeing how hospitals are being bombed. They are attacking civil society in an indiscriminate manner, therefore clearly violating human rights and more than likely committing war crimes," PM Pedro Sanchez said.

After the strike&nbsp;was&nbsp;reported on Wednesday, the Kremlin had said it would ask the military for more details. Reports said at least three people were killed, including a young girl after the children's hospital was hit.

Watch:&nbsp;Capital Kyiv turns fortress as families flee

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Mariupol city council said the "Russian forces are destroying Mariupol's civilian population deliberately and without mercy". The city has witnessed heavy bombardment by Russian forces over the past nine days. The city council said at least 1,200 people have been killed amid the Russian siege.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-ukraines-punisher-drone-is-targeting-russian-supply-lines-460230">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;&nbsp;How Ukraine's 'Punisher' drone is targeting Russian supply lines&nbsp;</a>

As the war entered the third week on Thursday, Lavrov said Russia wanted continued dialogue with Ukraine. However, Ukraine's foreign minister Kuleba declared that "Ukraine has not surrendered, does not surrender, and will not surrender" even as reports claimed Russian forces were near capital Kyiv.

President Zelensky said 35,000 civilians had managed to flee cities amid the Russian attack. Several thousand refugees have poured into neighbouring Poland and Romania as the UN said over 2 million people had fled the country.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. As the strike at children's hospital in Mariupol was condemned worldwide, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov claimed it was a base for the ultra-radical Azov battalion. "This maternity hospital has long been occupied by the Azov Battalion and other radicals. They drove out the women in labour, nurses and general staff. It was the base of the ultra-radical Azov battalion," Lavrov said after Mariupol's maternity hospital was attacked. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky called the attack a "war crime". The Ukraine President claimed it was a "direct strike by Russian troops" even as Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez also accused Russia of "war crimes". Also Read in Pics: Russia's Tsar bomba: World's most powerful nuclear weapon of mass destruction "We're seeing how hospitals are being bombed. They are attacking civil society in an indiscriminate manner, therefore clearly violating human rights and more than likely committing war crimes," PM Pedro Sanchez said. After the strike was reported on Wednesday, the Kremlin had said it would ask the military for more details. Reports said at least three people were killed, including a young girl after the children's hospital was hit. Watch: Capital Kyiv turns fortress as families flee Mariupol city council said the "Russian forces are destroying Mariupol's civilian population deliberately and without mercy". The city has witnessed heavy bombardment by Russian forces over the past nine days. The city council said at least 1,200 people have been killed amid the Russian siege. Also Read in Pics: How Ukraine's 'Punisher' drone is targeting Russian supply lines As the war entered the third week on Thursday, Lavrov said Russia wanted continued dialogue with Ukraine. However, Ukraine's foreign minister Kuleba declared that "Ukraine has not surrendered, does not surrender, and will not surrender" even as reports claimed Russian forces were near capital Kyiv. President Zelensky said 35,000 civilians had managed to flee cities amid the Russian attack. Several thousand refugees have poured into neighbouring Poland and Romania as the UN said over 2 million people had fled the country. (With inputs from Agencies)

Maternity hospital occupied by Azov battalion, claims Russian foreign minister Lavrov after strike

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. 
&nbsp;

As Russia continues to pound Ukraine with missiles, US defence officials have said that Putin's forces are increasingly targeting Ukraine with the so-called "dumb bombs".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-russias-barbaric-attack-on-ukraine-childrens-hospital-460804">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Russia's 'barbaric' attack on Ukraine children's hospital</a>

Reuters quoting US defence officials said Russia has been dropping "dumb munitions" amid&nbsp;"increasing damage to civilian infrastructure and civilian casualties".

Reports say Russian forces have been bombarding Ukranian cities while targeting civilian areas. On Wednesday, Russia hit a maternity hospital in Ukraine's Mariupol amid worldwide criticism.

What are "dumb bombs"?

The dumb bombs are not precision-guided weapons and it does not strike targets with precision leading to civilian casualties. Reports claim Russian aircraft have been flying low over Ukrainian towns while hitting them with "dumb bombs". The bombs most often miss their targets landing in civilian areas.&nbsp;

Has Russia actually used "dumb bombs"?

Amnesty International said a small public square formed by Chernihiv’s Viacheslava Chornovola and Kruhova streets was hit by multiple bombs, killing civilians and severely damaging nearby buildings.&nbsp;

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"Based on new interviews and verification and analysis of video evidence, Amnesty’s crisis response team has concluded the attack was likely to have been a Russian airstrike in which at least eight unguided aerial bombs - so-called “dumb bombs” were used," it said.

Amnesty said the Chernihiv council reported 47 people were killed in the attack including 38 men and nine women. Amnesty added that the majority of people who were hit by the bombs were queuing for food when the missiles hit.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. As Russia continues to pound Ukraine with missiles, US defence officials have said that Putin's forces are increasingly targeting Ukraine with the so-called "dumb bombs". Also Read in Pics: Russia's 'barbaric' attack on Ukraine children's hospital Reuters quoting US defence officials said Russia has been dropping "dumb munitions" amid "increasing damage to civilian infrastructure and civilian casualties". Reports say Russian forces have been bombarding Ukranian cities while targeting civilian areas. On Wednesday, Russia hit a maternity hospital in Ukraine's Mariupol amid worldwide criticism. What are "dumb bombs"? The dumb bombs are not precision-guided weapons and it does not strike targets with precision leading to civilian casualties. Reports claim Russian aircraft have been flying low over Ukrainian towns while hitting them with "dumb bombs". The bombs most often miss their targets landing in civilian areas. Has Russia actually used "dumb bombs"? Amnesty International said a small public square formed by Chernihiv’s Viacheslava Chornovola and Kruhova streets was hit by multiple bombs, killing civilians and severely damaging nearby buildings. Also Read in Pics: Tsar bomba: World's most powerful nuclear weapon of mass destruction "Based on new interviews and verification and analysis of video evidence, Amnesty’s crisis response team has concluded the attack was likely to have been a Russian airstrike in which at least eight unguided aerial bombs - so-called “dumb bombs” were used," it said. Amnesty said the Chernihiv council reported 47 people were killed in the attack including 38 men and nine women. Amnesty added that the majority of people who were hit by the bombs were queuing for food when the missiles hit. (With inputs from Agencies)

Ukraine war: Explainer - Is Russia using 'dumb bombs'?

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

As reports claim the Russian campaign is being stalled due to the stiff resistance by Ukraine's forces three weeks into the war, Russia's former foreign minister in the 90s, Andrei V Kozyrev in a tweet alleged that although the Kremlin spent 20 years to modernise its military but "much of that budget was stolen and spent on mega-yachts in Cyprus."

"But as a military advisor, you cannot report that to the President. So they reported lies to him instead," Kozyrev said in his tweet.

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
2. Russian military. The Kremlin spent the last 20 years trying to modernize its military. Much of that budget was stolen and spent on mega-yachts in Cyprus. But as a military advisor you cannot report that to the President. So they reported lies to him instead. Potemkin military
— Andrei V Kozyrev (@andreivkozyrev) <a href="https://twitter.com/andreivkozyrev/status/1500611398245634050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Kozyrev was Russia's foreign minister during Boris Yeltsin's government in the mid-1990s. Kozyrev's criticism comes amid reports of Russian forces carrying out large scale bombing campaign&nbsp;in civilian areas in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Syrians empathise with Ukraine

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"Putin spent the last 20 years believing that Ukraine is not a real nation and, at best, should be a satellite state. Maidan ended any hope of keeping Ukraine independent and pro-Kremlin. He thought the West was behind it," he said while adding, "if Ukraine's government cannot be kept independent and pro-Kremlin covertly, as he likely concluded, then he will overtly force it to be."

Kozyrev said Putin believed "own propagandists that Ukraine is run by a Nazi-Bandera junta. Perfect pretext to “de-Nazify” Ukraine."

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As the war in Ukraine entered the third week on Thursday, Ukraine's city mayor said half of the population of the city had fled. Kyiv's mayor Klitschko added that the capital has been "transformed into a fortress".

On Wednesday, Russian forces carried out strikes on a maternity hospital in Mariupol leading to international condemnation. However, the Russian foreign minister Lavrov claimed the hospital was a base for the "ultra-radical Azov battalion".

(Also Read in Pics)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. As reports claim the Russian campaign is being stalled due to the stiff resistance by Ukraine's forces three weeks into the war, Russia's former foreign minister in the 90s, Andrei V Kozyrev in a tweet alleged that although the Kremlin spent 20 years to modernise its military but "much of that budget was stolen and spent on mega-yachts in Cyprus." "But as a military advisor, you cannot report that to the President. So they reported lies to him instead," Kozyrev said in his tweet. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. 2. Russian military. The Kremlin spent the last 20 years trying to modernize its military. Much of that budget was stolen and spent on mega-yachts in Cyprus. But as a military advisor you cannot report that to the President. So they reported lies to him instead. Potemkin military — Andrei V Kozyrev (@andreivkozyrev) March 6, 2022 × Also Read in Pics: Russia's Tsar bomba: World's most powerful nuclear weapon of mass destruction Kozyrev was Russia's foreign minister during Boris Yeltsin's government in the mid-1990s. Kozyrev's criticism comes amid reports of Russian forces carrying out large scale bombing campaign in civilian areas in Ukraine. Watch: Syrians empathise with Ukraine "Putin spent the last 20 years believing that Ukraine is not a real nation and, at best, should be a satellite state. Maidan ended any hope of keeping Ukraine independent and pro-Kremlin. He thought the West was behind it," he said while adding, "if Ukraine's government cannot be kept independent and pro-Kremlin covertly, as he likely concluded, then he will overtly force it to be." Kozyrev said Putin believed "own propagandists that Ukraine is run by a Nazi-Bandera junta. Perfect pretext to “de-Nazify” Ukraine." Also Read in Pics: Grad & Urgan: Russia targets rocket 'hail' on Ukraine's cities As the war in Ukraine entered the third week on Thursday, Ukraine's city mayor said half of the population of the city had fled. Kyiv's mayor Klitschko added that the capital has been "transformed into a fortress". On Wednesday, Russian forces carried out strikes on a maternity hospital in Mariupol leading to international condemnation. However, the Russian foreign minister Lavrov claimed the hospital was a base for the "ultra-radical Azov battalion". (Also Read in Pics)

Russian military budget spent on buying mega-yachts, alleges ex-foreign minister

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukraine's defence ministry said Russia has been mobilising militants from the private military company "League" to enter Kyiv which was earlier known as "Wagner".

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Reports claimed earlier hundreds of mercenary soldiers from the so called "Wagner" group were being sent to Ukraine's capital to assassinate President Zelensky.

What is the Wagner Group?

There is very little evidence of the existence of the Wagner group. Reports claim the shadowy group first emerged in Ukraine in 2014 during the Crimean conflict. After that, it is believed the mercenary group fought in Syria as Russia sought to help President Bashar al-Assad's regime.

Who is Yevgeny Prigozhin?

Reports claim a man named Yevgeny Prigozhin who is believed to be close to President Putin is connected to the mercenary group. According to the US treasury Prigozhin "is the Russian financier of the Internet Research Agency (IRA), which he utilizes to operate global influence operations."

"In early 2021, Prigozhin continued to coordinate messages in an attempt to spread disinformation about the United States government. His vast global network spreads false narratives online," the US treasury said.

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"OFAC has previously targeted these activities around the world, particularly through the Kremlin-backed Wagner group on the continent of Africa," it said.

According to the US treasury, Prigozhin's influence apparatus is reportedly supporting the Russian government's designed influence operations within Ukraine.

Is Prigozhin linked to Putin?

Reports claim Prigozhin began his business in sausage wholesale in St. Petersburg in the 1990s where Putin worked as an advisor to the city mayor.

He opened a restaurant which was also frequented by Putin during the early part of his presidential tenure. The US government also said Prigozhin is "Kremlin-backed". Prigozhin is reportedly close to Putin and acts as a "middleman" for Russian state activities.

(With inputs from Agencies)&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukraine's defence ministry said Russia has been mobilising militants from the private military company "League" to enter Kyiv which was earlier known as "Wagner". Also Read in Pics: Here is a look at Putin's family, who are reportedly hiding in a secret Siberian underground bunker Reports claimed earlier hundreds of mercenary soldiers from the so called "Wagner" group were being sent to Ukraine's capital to assassinate President Zelensky. What is the Wagner Group? There is very little evidence of the existence of the Wagner group. Reports claim the shadowy group first emerged in Ukraine in 2014 during the Crimean conflict. After that, it is believed the mercenary group fought in Syria as Russia sought to help President Bashar al-Assad's regime. Who is Yevgeny Prigozhin? Reports claim a man named Yevgeny Prigozhin who is believed to be close to President Putin is connected to the mercenary group. According to the US treasury Prigozhin "is the Russian financier of the Internet Research Agency (IRA), which he utilizes to operate global influence operations." "In early 2021, Prigozhin continued to coordinate messages in an attempt to spread disinformation about the United States government. His vast global network spreads false narratives online," the US treasury said. Also Read in Pics: Who is the real Mr Putin? Meet the judo fighter who worked for the KGB "OFAC has previously targeted these activities around the world, particularly through the Kremlin-backed Wagner group on the continent of Africa," it said. According to the US treasury, Prigozhin's influence apparatus is reportedly supporting the Russian government's designed influence operations within Ukraine. Is Prigozhin linked to Putin? Reports claim Prigozhin began his business in sausage wholesale in St. Petersburg in the 1990s where Putin worked as an advisor to the city mayor. He opened a restaurant which was also frequented by Putin during the early part of his presidential tenure. The US government also said Prigozhin is "Kremlin-backed". Prigozhin is reportedly close to Putin and acts as a "middleman" for Russian state activities. (With inputs from Agencies)

Ukraine-Russia war: Who are the 'Wagner' mercenaries?

Amid the war in Ukraine, the US State Department has instructed its citizens who intend to travel to Kyiv to write a will and leave DNA samples and also discuss child custody issues before embarking on their&nbsp;journey.

The US government has advised citizens not to travel to Ukraine, however, despite this if someone needs to travel to the warzone the person has been advised to ensure pet care, property and asset management plans including issues related to handling documents and personal data to relatives are sorted out.

The advisory also includes&nbsp;funeral wishes to be discussed beforehand

The United States had pulled its diplomatic staff ahead of the Russian invasion of Ukraine as several nations followed to pull their citizens out of the country.

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Amid the fighting, the US ambassador in Moscow John Sullivan called on American citizens who are currently in Russia to leave the country immediately. Sullivan said the embassy can be closed as Putin's regime continues its war with Ukraine.

Meanwhile, Russia agreed to open more humanitarian corridors in Ukraine amid large scale bombing of cities as the war entered the 14th day on Wednesday.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia may intensify assault in Ukraine despite setback, warns US intel

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Russian officials said "some progress" was made in talks with Ukrainian officials however Ukraine's deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk the government has had a "negative experience" with ceasefires while asking Russia to "keep its promises".

The UN said over 2 million refugees had fled to neighbouring to European countries even as Russia has been hit by a wave of sanctions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-ukraine-has-been-able-to-stall-russian-advance-460209">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Why has Ukraine been able to stall Russian advance</a>

The Biden administration announced on Tuesday that it will be halting Russian oil imports even as major Western companies including McDonald's, Coca-Cola and others announced they were pulling out of the country.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid the war in Ukraine, the US State Department has instructed its citizens who intend to travel to Kyiv to write a will and leave DNA samples and also discuss child custody issues before embarking on their journey.

Amid the war in Ukraine, the US State Department has instructed its citizens who intend to travel to Kyiv to write a will and leave DNA samples and also discuss child custody issues before embarking on their journey. The US government has advised citizens not to travel to Ukraine, however, despite this if someone needs to travel to the warzone the person has been advised to ensure pet care, property and asset management plans including issues related to handling documents and personal data to relatives are sorted out. The advisory also includes funeral wishes to be discussed beforehand The United States had pulled its diplomatic staff ahead of the Russian invasion of Ukraine as several nations followed to pull their citizens out of the country. Also Read in Pics: Ukraine's 'Punisher' drone is targeting Russian supply lines Amid the fighting, the US ambassador in Moscow John Sullivan called on American citizens who are currently in Russia to leave the country immediately. Sullivan said the embassy can be closed as Putin's regime continues its war with Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia agreed to open more humanitarian corridors in Ukraine amid large scale bombing of cities as the war entered the 14th day on Wednesday. Watch: Russia may intensify assault in Ukraine despite setback, warns US intel Russian officials said "some progress" was made in talks with Ukrainian officials however Ukraine's deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk the government has had a "negative experience" with ceasefires while asking Russia to "keep its promises". The UN said over 2 million refugees had fled to neighbouring to European countries even as Russia has been hit by a wave of sanctions. Also Read in Pics: Why has Ukraine been able to stall Russian advance The Biden administration announced on Tuesday that it will be halting Russian oil imports even as major Western companies including McDonald's, Coca-Cola and others announced they were pulling out of the country. (With inputs from Agencies)

Draft will, leave DNA samples if you want to travel to Ukraine: US State Department advisory says

As Russia's war against&nbsp;Ukraine continues, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Ukraine had "plans" in case President Zelensky is killed during the war.

"The Ukrainians have plans in place that I'm not going to talk about or get into any details on to make sure that there is what we would call continuity of government one way or another. And let me leave it at that," Blinken told a US television channel.

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President Zelensky had earlier said that he is Russia's main target and his family is also under Russian radar even as Ukrainian security officials had said they&nbsp;had thwarted an assassination attempt&nbsp;against Zelensky.

Russia had kept its relentless bombing campaign in Kyiv even as President Zelensky declared he was stationed in Ukraine's capital and hadn't left the city. However, the whereabouts of the Ukraine president is unknown even as he continues to appear through video link.

Watch:&nbsp;Imran Khan slams West's demand to denounce Russia

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On Sunday, Zelensky had said a Russian missile strike had destroyed Vinnytsia airport in central Ukraine as he asked Western nations to impose a no-fly zone over Ukraine. President Putin had warned against the imposition of a no-fly zone.

"We repeat every day: close the sky over Ukraine. Close for all Russian missiles, for Russian combat aircraft, for all their terrorists," he Zelensky said, adding," if you don't give us at least planes so we can protect ourselves, there's only one thing to conclude; you want us to be killed very slowly."&nbsp;

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President Zelensky added that Russian forces were preparing to bomb the port city of Odessa in the Black Sea as Ukrainian authorities set up several checkpoints in city. The cit is strategically located in the Moldovan border and the Russian-occupied region of Transnistria.

(With inputs from Agencies)

As Russia's war against Ukraine continues, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Ukraine had "plans" in case President Zelensky is killed during the war. "The Ukrainians have plans in place that I'm not going to talk about or get into any details on to make sure that there is what we would call continuity of government one way or another.

As Russia's war against Ukraine continues, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Ukraine had "plans" in case President Zelensky is killed during the war. "The Ukrainians have plans in place that I'm not going to talk about or get into any details on to make sure that there is what we would call continuity of government one way or another. And let me leave it at that," Blinken told a US television channel. Also Read in Pics: In long air battle, can Ukraine hold out against Russian Air Force? President Zelensky had earlier said that he is Russia's main target and his family is also under Russian radar even as Ukrainian security officials had said they had thwarted an assassination attempt against Zelensky. Russia had kept its relentless bombing campaign in Kyiv even as President Zelensky declared he was stationed in Ukraine's capital and hadn't left the city. However, the whereabouts of the Ukraine president is unknown even as he continues to appear through video link. Watch: Imran Khan slams West's demand to denounce Russia On Sunday, Zelensky had said a Russian missile strike had destroyed Vinnytsia airport in central Ukraine as he asked Western nations to impose a no-fly zone over Ukraine. President Putin had warned against the imposition of a no-fly zone. "We repeat every day: close the sky over Ukraine. Close for all Russian missiles, for Russian combat aircraft, for all their terrorists," he Zelensky said, adding," if you don't give us at least planes so we can protect ourselves, there's only one thing to conclude; you want us to be killed very slowly." Also Read in Pics: What does aftermath of Russian invasion look like for Ukraine? President Zelensky added that Russian forces were preparing to bomb the port city of Odessa in the Black Sea as Ukrainian authorities set up several checkpoints in city. The cit is strategically located in the Moldovan border and the Russian-occupied region of Transnistria. (With inputs from Agencies)

Ukrainians have plans in place, should Zelensky die during war, says Blinken

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky while addressing the UK House of Commons said his country won't give up the fight against Russia.

"We will not give up, will fight till the end. We will continue fighting for our land," Ukraine's president told the UK Parliament via a video link on Tuesday.

"We have not been sleeping, we all have been fighting for all our army," he said, adding, "from day 2 we have been facing airstrikes but our heroic army has been fighting."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-ukraines-punisher-drone-is-targeting-russian-supply-lines-460230">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;&nbsp;How Ukraine's 'Punisher' drone is targeting Russian supply lines</a>

"Russia asked to surrender but we continue fighting, on the third day&nbsp;the Russian artillery began firing and on the fourth day&nbsp;we were attacked and shelled around the civilian&nbsp;area - they didn't break us," he said.

A defiant Zelensky asserted that "our people came on the road and stopped the tanks" while adding that, "Russian tanks hit the atomic power station, everybody's got to understand that its an attack against everyone."

Watch |&nbsp;Ground Report: Irpin faces heat as Russian troops advance

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"I think everybody can hear that people don't have water, over the last 13 days over 50 children have been killed, these children could have lived but these&nbsp;people have taken them."

"We are the country saving people despite fighting one of the biggest armies in the world, we have to fight the helicopters," he said.

In a tone reminiscent of Britain's wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill during World War II, Zelensky said: "We will fight in the jungle and&nbsp;in the riverfront."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-tank-man-to-snake-island-defenders-brave-stories-of-resistance-by-ukrainians-against-vladimir-putin-460353">Also Read:&nbsp;Brave stories of resistance by Ukrainians against Vladimir Putin</a>

UK PM Boris Johnson was also present in Parliament during Zelensky's address. Johnson said his country is determined to press on with economic sanctions against Russia.

"We will keep working to find every available options to make Mr. Putin fail," Johnson said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky while addressing the UK House of Commons said his country won't give up the fight against Russia. "We will not give up, will fight till the end.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky while addressing the UK House of Commons said his country won't give up the fight against Russia. "We will not give up, will fight till the end. We will continue fighting for our land," Ukraine's president told the UK Parliament via a video link on Tuesday. "We have not been sleeping, we all have been fighting for all our army," he said, adding, "from day 2 we have been facing airstrikes but our heroic army has been fighting." Also Read in Pics: How Ukraine's 'Punisher' drone is targeting Russian supply lines "Russia asked to surrender but we continue fighting, on the third day the Russian artillery began firing and on the fourth day we were attacked and shelled around the civilian area - they didn't break us," he said. A defiant Zelensky asserted that "our people came on the road and stopped the tanks" while adding that, "Russian tanks hit the atomic power station, everybody's got to understand that its an attack against everyone." Watch | Ground Report: Irpin faces heat as Russian troops advance "I think everybody can hear that people don't have water, over the last 13 days over 50 children have been killed, these children could have lived but these people have taken them." "We are the country saving people despite fighting one of the biggest armies in the world, we have to fight the helicopters," he said. In a tone reminiscent of Britain's wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill during World War II, Zelensky said: "We will fight in the jungle and in the riverfront." Also Read: Brave stories of resistance by Ukrainians against Vladimir Putin UK PM Boris Johnson was also present in Parliament during Zelensky's address. Johnson said his country is determined to press on with economic sanctions against Russia. "We will keep working to find every available options to make Mr. Putin fail," Johnson said. (With inputs from Agencies)

We will not give up, will fight till the end, Ukraine President Zelensky tells UK Parliament

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

According to reports, Russia is seeking to recruit Syrian soldiers to fight in Ukraine as fighting intensifies in various cities.

Reports claim Syrian President Bashar al-Assad may send his fighters to Ukraine. Russia has been helping the Syrian regime since 2015.&nbsp;

US officials told the Wall Street Journal that Russia has been recruiting Syrian fighters who have expertise in urban warfare. Reports say some Syrian fighters are already in Russia preparing to enter the Ukraine war amid escalation of bombing campaign in Ukrainian cities.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Putin using Syrian fighters to beat Ukraine?

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Reports claim Russia has increased shelling of cities in recent days including in Gostomel near Kyiv and Kharkiv in the east. Other cities namely Sumy, Chernihiv and Mykolayiv have also come under intense Russian fire. Several thousand people have been rendered homeless amid the Russian missile attacks with people out of power in the besieged southern port of Mariupol.

Despite the heavy bombing since February 24 when President Putin declared war on Ukraine, soldiers in Kyiv have resisted Russian attacks and it continues to remain under Ukrainian control including Kharkiv although reports say the city has been surrounded.

Russian forces have been on the offensive in the Russian-basked Donetsk and Lugansk regions even as fighting continues in Sumy city. Putin's forces have shelled Kyiv from the first day of the campaign as reports claim there is a major Russian military stationed outside the city.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-long-air-battle-can-ukraine-hold-out-against-russian-air-force-459873">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Can Ukraine hold out against Russian Air Force?</a>

Heavy fighting is continuing in Gostomel near Kyiv even as Ukrainian forces have reportedly destroyed several Russian military vehicles. The port city Odessa also remains under Ukraine's although Ukrainian President Zelensky said the civilian airport in Vinnytsia was destroyed by Russian rockets.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. According to reports, Russia is seeking to recruit Syrian soldiers to fight in Ukraine as fighting intensifies in various cities. Reports claim Syrian President Bashar al-Assad may send his fighters to Ukraine. Russia has been helping the Syrian regime since 2015. US officials told the Wall Street Journal that Russia has been recruiting Syrian fighters who have expertise in urban warfare. Reports say some Syrian fighters are already in Russia preparing to enter the Ukraine war amid escalation of bombing campaign in Ukrainian cities. Watch | Gravitas: Putin using Syrian fighters to beat Ukraine? Reports claim Russia has increased shelling of cities in recent days including in Gostomel near Kyiv and Kharkiv in the east. Other cities namely Sumy, Chernihiv and Mykolayiv have also come under intense Russian fire. Several thousand people have been rendered homeless amid the Russian missile attacks with people out of power in the besieged southern port of Mariupol. Despite the heavy bombing since February 24 when President Putin declared war on Ukraine, soldiers in Kyiv have resisted Russian attacks and it continues to remain under Ukrainian control including Kharkiv although reports say the city has been surrounded. Russian forces have been on the offensive in the Russian-basked Donetsk and Lugansk regions even as fighting continues in Sumy city. Putin's forces have shelled Kyiv from the first day of the campaign as reports claim there is a major Russian military stationed outside the city. Also Read in Pics: Can Ukraine hold out against Russian Air Force? Heavy fighting is continuing in Gostomel near Kyiv even as Ukrainian forces have reportedly destroyed several Russian military vehicles. The port city Odessa also remains under Ukraine's although Ukrainian President Zelensky said the civilian airport in Vinnytsia was destroyed by Russian rockets. (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia seeking to recruit Syrian soldiers to fight in Ukraine: Report

As several Western nations imposed stringent sanctions against Russia, Putin's regime published a list of "unfriendly" countries.

The list included all those nations which have reportedly conducted "unfriendly actions against Russia, its companies&nbsp;and citizens", according to Russian news agencies.

The list includes the United States, EU countries, Canada, UK, Switzerland, Norway, North Macedonia, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Taiwan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-long-air-battle-can-ukraine-hold-out-against-russian-air-force-459873">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;In long air battle, can Ukraine hold out against Russian Air Force?</a>

Other countries which the Russian government has targeted are: Albania, Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, San Marino, &nbsp;Micronesia and Ukraine.

The Russian government said the countries in the list had either imposed sanctions or joined sanctions against the country as Putin began his "special military operation".

Watch:&nbsp;&nbsp;Russian military claims US running 30 biolabs in Ukraine

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The United States had targeted Russia's financial and airlines sectors as the EU hit Russia with sanctions as Russian forces started their military campaign on February 24.

Italy earlier had earlier frozen assets including luxury yachts and property held by Russian oligarchs. Italian police seized the yacht of Alexei Mordashov, a metals magnate who is believed to be close to President Putin. Another yacht owned by billionaire Gennady Timshenko was also reportedly seized by authorities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-ukraine-has-been-able-to-stall-russian-advance-460209">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Why Ukraine has been able to stall Russian advance?</a>

The European Union has targeted over 500 Russian individuals and entities while freezing their assets.

(With inputs from Agencies)

As several Western nations imposed stringent sanctions against Russia, Putin's regime published a list of "unfriendly" countries. The list included all those nations which have reportedly conducted "unfriendly actions against Russia, its companies and citizens", according to Russian news agencies.

As several Western nations imposed stringent sanctions against Russia, Putin's regime published a list of "unfriendly" countries. The list included all those nations which have reportedly conducted "unfriendly actions against Russia, its companies and citizens", according to Russian news agencies. The list includes the United States, EU countries, Canada, UK, Switzerland, Norway, North Macedonia, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Taiwan. Also Read in Pics: In long air battle, can Ukraine hold out against Russian Air Force? Other countries which the Russian government has targeted are: Albania, Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, San Marino, Micronesia and Ukraine. The Russian government said the countries in the list had either imposed sanctions or joined sanctions against the country as Putin began his "special military operation". Watch: Russian military claims US running 30 biolabs in Ukraine The United States had targeted Russia's financial and airlines sectors as the EU hit Russia with sanctions as Russian forces started their military campaign on February 24. Italy earlier had earlier frozen assets including luxury yachts and property held by Russian oligarchs. Italian police seized the yacht of Alexei Mordashov, a metals magnate who is believed to be close to President Putin. Another yacht owned by billionaire Gennady Timshenko was also reportedly seized by authorities. Also Read in Pics: Why Ukraine has been able to stall Russian advance? The European Union has targeted over 500 Russian individuals and entities while freezing their assets. (With inputs from Agencies)

Amid Ukraine war, Russia lists 'unfriendly countries'

Pics: Russian advance throttled as Ukraine destroys rocket launchers, military vehicles

In long air battle, can Ukraine hold out against Russian Air Force?

Russia said it has resumed "offensive actions" after announcing a ceasefire earlier on Saturday in the port towns of Mariupol and neighbouring Volnovakha.&nbsp;

"Due to the unwillingness of the Ukrainian side to influence nationalists or extend the regime of silence, offensive actions have been resumed," defence ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/battle-analysis-russian-tank-armada-vs-ukraine-who-will-win-459067">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Russian tank armada vs Ukraine - who will win?</a>

Ukrainian officials had earlier blamed Russian forces of violating the ceasefire agreement after Putin's regime announced it had opened humanitarian corridors in the two cities.

Russian defence ministry spokesman said &nbsp;"not a single civilian" was able to make way through the humanitarian corridors while alleging that "the population of these cities is held by nationalist formations as a human shield".

Watch:&nbsp;What bunkers in Lviv look like?

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Russia blamed the Ukrainians of trying to "regroup", earlier Ukraine's minister Iryna Vereshchuk had said the government was looking into military reports of Russian troops using the time to advance towards Mariupol.

The Ukrainian government had said earlier that it planned to evacuate&nbsp;15,000 people from Volnovakha and 200,000 from Mariupol. Ukrainian authorities however delayed evacuation efforts alleging that Russians were shelling areas in Mariupol.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-is-the-chain-of-command-for-potential-russian-nuclear-strikes-458854">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;What is the chain of command for potential Russian nuclear strikes?</a>

Reports said Russia has intensified its attack on Kyiv even as over 1.3 million people have fled to neighbouring European countries with Russian air raids being conducted in Bucha and Irpin allegedly on civilian targets.

The UN said at least 351 civilians have been killed in the last ten days amid Russian attacks while adding that the casualties could be "considerably higher".

(With inputs from Agencies)

Russia said it has resumed "offensive actions" after announcing a ceasefire earlier on Saturday in the port towns of Mariupol and neighbouring Volnovakha. "Due to the unwillingness of the Ukrainian side to influence nationalists or extend the regime of silence, offensive actions have been resumed," defence ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said.

Russia said it has resumed "offensive actions" after announcing a ceasefire earlier on Saturday in the port towns of Mariupol and neighbouring Volnovakha. "Due to the unwillingness of the Ukrainian side to influence nationalists or extend the regime of silence, offensive actions have been resumed," defence ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said. Also Read in Pics: Russian tank armada vs Ukraine - who will win? Ukrainian officials had earlier blamed Russian forces of violating the ceasefire agreement after Putin's regime announced it had opened humanitarian corridors in the two cities. Russian defence ministry spokesman said "not a single civilian" was able to make way through the humanitarian corridors while alleging that "the population of these cities is held by nationalist formations as a human shield". Watch: What bunkers in Lviv look like? Russia blamed the Ukrainians of trying to "regroup", earlier Ukraine's minister Iryna Vereshchuk had said the government was looking into military reports of Russian troops using the time to advance towards Mariupol. The Ukrainian government had said earlier that it planned to evacuate 15,000 people from Volnovakha and 200,000 from Mariupol. Ukrainian authorities however delayed evacuation efforts alleging that Russians were shelling areas in Mariupol. Also Read in Pics: What is the chain of command for potential Russian nuclear strikes? Reports said Russia has intensified its attack on Kyiv even as over 1.3 million people have fled to neighbouring European countries with Russian air raids being conducted in Bucha and Irpin allegedly on civilian targets. The UN said at least 351 civilians have been killed in the last ten days amid Russian attacks while adding that the casualties could be "considerably higher". (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia resumes 'offensive action' in Mariupol as ceasefire collapses

At least 351 civilians have been killed in Ukraine, a UN monitoring mission said on Saturday as Russia continued its bombing campaign.

The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) said most of the casualties had occurred due to shelling from rocket launchers and heavy artillery.

The UN agency said the "real figures are considerably higher" as several reports are still to be corroborated including in Volnovakha where Russia declared it had opened an evacuation corridor.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russia-attacks-ukraine-kalibr-cruise-missiles-tested-in-syrian-battlefield-459267">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Russia's Kalibr cruise missiles against Ukraine</a>

Although Russia said it had stopped firing near two Ukrainian cities on Saturday however Ukraine's deputy PM Iryna Vereshchunk said Putin's forces ahd started shelling &nbsp;Volnovakha in the morning with heavy artillery.

"Russia violated the agreement in which the Red Cross was an intermediary," Vereshchunk said.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas Plus | Ukraine War: Are we heading towards World War III

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Reports had claimed earlier that at least 47 people were killed after Russian airstrikes in the northern Ukrainian city of Chernihiv. There have been reports of residential areas being hit as capital Kyiv has come under intense bombing in the past few days.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-are-czech-hedgehogs-homemade-obstacles-that-can-destroy-russian-tanks-459254">Also Read:&nbsp;What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks</a>

Amid the fighting, The United Nations' World Food Programme warned that Ukraine may witness a food crisis due to disruption in production and exports as reports said at least 1.3 million people had fled to neighbouring states.

(With inputs from Agencies)

At least 351 civilians have been killed in Ukraine, a UN monitoring mission said on Saturday as Russia continued its bombing campaign. The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) said most of the casualties had occurred due to shelling from rocket launchers and heavy artillery.

At least 351 civilians have been killed in Ukraine, a UN monitoring mission said on Saturday as Russia continued its bombing campaign. The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) said most of the casualties had occurred due to shelling from rocket launchers and heavy artillery. The UN agency said the "real figures are considerably higher" as several reports are still to be corroborated including in Volnovakha where Russia declared it had opened an evacuation corridor. Also Read in Pics: Russia's Kalibr cruise missiles against Ukraine Although Russia said it had stopped firing near two Ukrainian cities on Saturday however Ukraine's deputy PM Iryna Vereshchunk said Putin's forces ahd started shelling Volnovakha in the morning with heavy artillery. "Russia violated the agreement in which the Red Cross was an intermediary," Vereshchunk said. Watch: Gravitas Plus | Ukraine War: Are we heading towards World War III Reports had claimed earlier that at least 47 people were killed after Russian airstrikes in the northern Ukrainian city of Chernihiv. There have been reports of residential areas being hit as capital Kyiv has come under intense bombing in the past few days. Also Read: What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks Amid the fighting, The United Nations' World Food Programme warned that Ukraine may witness a food crisis due to disruption in production and exports as reports said at least 1.3 million people had fled to neighbouring states. (With inputs from Agencies)

At least 351 civilians killed in Ukraine, real figures considerably higher: UN agency

As oil prices soared amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Tesla chief Elon Musk in a tweet said that "we need to increase oil &amp; gas output immediately."

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Hate to say it, but we need to increase oil &amp; gas output immediately. 
 
Extraordinary times demand extraordinary measures.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1499907549746937860?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"Extraordinary times demand extraordinary measures," Musk said.

Musk's latest tweet comes as US officials said they have been "tracking the energy market on an hour by hour basis" over supply concerns.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nothing-is-off-the-table-us-may-target-russian-oil-imports-458302">Also Read:&nbsp;'Nothing is off the table': US may target Russian oil imports</a>

World oil prices have hit a new high even as President Joe Biden announced the US would release 30 million barrels from the strategic petroleum reserves to help stabilise the market.&nbsp;

Reports claim international buyers have shunned Russian oil due to Western sanctions and logistical challenges as the war in Ukraine entered its tenth day.

Brent North Sea crude oil hit $120 per barrel this week amid supply disruption fears&nbsp;even as OPEC and Russia refused to increase production. The war has also led to&nbsp;supply chain concerns even as markets look to recover from pandemic disruption.

Rating agency Moody's said Russia's war with Ukraine was the "the greatest risk" facing supply chains since the pandemic even as shipowners, MSC, Maersk and others announced they were halting their services to Russian ports which is likely to increase shipping costs.

Industrial metal prices surged after Russia's invasion of Ukraine as aluminium prices hit a new all-time high this week.

(With inputs from Agencies)

As oil prices soared amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Tesla chief Elon Musk in a tweet said that "we need to increase oil & gas output immediately." Hate to say it, but we need to increase oil & gas output immediately.

As oil prices soared amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Tesla chief Elon Musk in a tweet said that "we need to increase oil & gas output immediately." Hate to say it, but we need to increase oil & gas output immediately. Extraordinary times demand extraordinary measures. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 5, 2022 × "Extraordinary times demand extraordinary measures," Musk said. Musk's latest tweet comes as US officials said they have been "tracking the energy market on an hour by hour basis" over supply concerns. Also Read: 'Nothing is off the table': US may target Russian oil imports World oil prices have hit a new high even as President Joe Biden announced the US would release 30 million barrels from the strategic petroleum reserves to help stabilise the market. Reports claim international buyers have shunned Russian oil due to Western sanctions and logistical challenges as the war in Ukraine entered its tenth day. Brent North Sea crude oil hit $120 per barrel this week amid supply disruption fears even as OPEC and Russia refused to increase production. The war has also led to supply chain concerns even as markets look to recover from pandemic disruption. Rating agency Moody's said Russia's war with Ukraine was the "the greatest risk" facing supply chains since the pandemic even as shipowners, MSC, Maersk and others announced they were halting their services to Russian ports which is likely to increase shipping costs. Industrial metal prices surged after Russia's invasion of Ukraine as aluminium prices hit a new all-time high this week. (With inputs from Agencies)

Hate to say it, but we need to increase oil & gas output immediately: Musk

After Russian forces declared a temporary ceasefire in the port city of Mariupol, Ukrainian authorities said the evacuation has been postponed due to Russian shelling.

The port city is reportedly surrounded by Russian forces, however, Ukrainian forces said they will be delaying the evacuation due to Russian ceasefire violations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/war-zone-ukraines-us-made-javelin-anti-tank-missile-vs-russian-t-72-beasts-451693">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Ukraine's US-made Javelin anti-tank missile vs Russian T-72 beasts</a>

"Russian side does not adhere to the ceasefire, and has continued shelling both of Mariupol itself and its environs," city officials said while adding that the evacuation has been postponed.

Russia had said earlier that it had opened humanitarian corridors near Mariupol and Volnovakha in order to allow safe passage for civilians. Reports claimed Mariupol citizens were allowed to leave the city in a five hour period even as the invasion entered the tenth day on Saturday.

Reports claim Mariupol has been heavily bombarded even as Ukrainian forces said at least 200,000 people from Mariupol and 15,000 from Volnovakha would be evacuated. However, city officials claimed that Russian forces were not adhering to the ceasefire.

Watch:&nbsp;How safe are Ukraine's nuclear plants?

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Meanwhile, Ukraine's minister Iryna Vereshchuk said the government was looking into military reports of Russian troops possibly&nbsp;using the time gained by the ceasefire to advance towards Mariupol.

Despite the temporary ceasefire, Russia's defence ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said: "The armed forces of the Russian Federation continued to carry out strikes on the military infrastructure of Ukraine."

Amid the continued bombing operation carried out by Russia, at least 1.2 million have already fled to European countries with a huge shortage of essential supplies as the Russian military operation continues.

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Russia has also continued to&nbsp;bomb&nbsp;Kyiv with Russian armoured divisions waiting outside the city.

NATO on Friday had rejected President Zelenky's demand for a no-fly zone over Ukraine as secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg said&nbsp;the European alliance did not want the conflict&nbsp;"escalating beyond Ukraine because that would be even more dangerous, more devastating and would cause even more human suffering".

(With inputs from Agencies)

After Russian forces declared a temporary ceasefire in the port city of Mariupol, Ukrainian authorities said the evacuation has been postponed due to Russian shelling.

After Russian forces declared a temporary ceasefire in the port city of Mariupol, Ukrainian authorities said the evacuation has been postponed due to Russian shelling. The port city is reportedly surrounded by Russian forces, however, Ukrainian forces said they will be delaying the evacuation due to Russian ceasefire violations. Also Read in Pics: Ukraine's US-made Javelin anti-tank missile vs Russian T-72 beasts "Russian side does not adhere to the ceasefire, and has continued shelling both of Mariupol itself and its environs," city officials said while adding that the evacuation has been postponed. Russia had said earlier that it had opened humanitarian corridors near Mariupol and Volnovakha in order to allow safe passage for civilians. Reports claimed Mariupol citizens were allowed to leave the city in a five hour period even as the invasion entered the tenth day on Saturday. Reports claim Mariupol has been heavily bombarded even as Ukrainian forces said at least 200,000 people from Mariupol and 15,000 from Volnovakha would be evacuated. However, city officials claimed that Russian forces were not adhering to the ceasefire. Watch: How safe are Ukraine's nuclear plants? Meanwhile, Ukraine's minister Iryna Vereshchuk said the government was looking into military reports of Russian troops possibly using the time gained by the ceasefire to advance towards Mariupol. Despite the temporary ceasefire, Russia's defence ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said: "The armed forces of the Russian Federation continued to carry out strikes on the military infrastructure of Ukraine." Amid the continued bombing operation carried out by Russia, at least 1.2 million have already fled to European countries with a huge shortage of essential supplies as the Russian military operation continues. Also Read in Pics: Russia's Sarmat Intercontinental ballistic missile can change battlefield dynamic Russia has also continued to bomb Kyiv with Russian armoured divisions waiting outside the city. NATO on Friday had rejected President Zelenky's demand for a no-fly zone over Ukraine as secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg said the European alliance did not want the conflict "escalating beyond Ukraine because that would be even more dangerous, more devastating and would cause even more human suffering". (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia not adhering to ceasefire, evacuation delayed in Mariupol: Ukraine

Russia attacks Ukraine: Kalibr cruise missiles 'tested' in Syrian battlefield

After Ukraine's nuclear power plant was hit, Russia blamed the explosion on Ukrainian "saboteurs" calling it "monstrous provocation".

"Last night on the territory adjacent to the power plant, an attempt was made by the Kyiv nationalist regime to carry out a monstrous provocation," Russia's defence ministry said.

The defence ministry added that the nuclear plant was operating normally and the area was under Russian control since February 28.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-is-the-chain-of-command-for-potential-russian-nuclear-strikes-458854">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;What is the chain of command for potential Russian nuclear strikes?</a>

UK foreign secretary Liz Truss called for an urgent meeting of the UNSC after Russian forces attacked the nuclear power plant. The IAEA said the fire at Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant did not affect "essential" equipment.

However, Russian defence ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov alleged that "at about 2 am during a patrol of guarded territory adjacent to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, a mobile patrol of the National Guard came under attack from a Ukrainian sabotage group".

Watch: What next for Putin?

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"To provoke return fire on the building, heavy small arms fire was opened on Russian National Guard servicemen from the windows of several floors of a training complex located outside the power plant," he said.

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According to Igor Konashenkov, the "sabotage group" abandoned the training complex after the Russian patrol group returned fire to suppress the attack as it was set on fire and they left.

The IAEA said the training facility at the nuclear site at Zaporizhzhia which was hit was not part of the plant's reactors. Russia had earlier seized the Chernobyl nuclear plant on February 24.

"Currently, the staff of Zaporizhzhya NPP continues to work as usual, maintains the NPP facilities and monitors the radioactive situation. The radioactive background in the area of the nuclear power plant is normal,” the defence ministry spokesman added.

(With inputs from Agencies)

After Ukraine's nuclear power plant was hit, Russia blamed the explosion on Ukrainian "saboteurs" calling it "monstrous provocation". "Last night on the territory adjacent to the power plant, an attempt was made by the Kyiv nationalist regime to carry out a monstrous provocation," Russia's defence ministry said.

After Ukraine's nuclear power plant was hit, Russia blamed the explosion on Ukrainian "saboteurs" calling it "monstrous provocation". "Last night on the territory adjacent to the power plant, an attempt was made by the Kyiv nationalist regime to carry out a monstrous provocation," Russia's defence ministry said. The defence ministry added that the nuclear plant was operating normally and the area was under Russian control since February 28. Also Read in Pics: What is the chain of command for potential Russian nuclear strikes? UK foreign secretary Liz Truss called for an urgent meeting of the UNSC after Russian forces attacked the nuclear power plant. The IAEA said the fire at Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant did not affect "essential" equipment. However, Russian defence ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov alleged that "at about 2 am during a patrol of guarded territory adjacent to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, a mobile patrol of the National Guard came under attack from a Ukrainian sabotage group". Watch: What next for Putin? "To provoke return fire on the building, heavy small arms fire was opened on Russian National Guard servicemen from the windows of several floors of a training complex located outside the power plant," he said. Also Read in Pics: Russia's hunt for 'drone-killer UAV concept' revealed According to Igor Konashenkov, the "sabotage group" abandoned the training complex after the Russian patrol group returned fire to suppress the attack as it was set on fire and they left. The IAEA said the training facility at the nuclear site at Zaporizhzhia which was hit was not part of the plant's reactors. Russia had earlier seized the Chernobyl nuclear plant on February 24. "Currently, the staff of Zaporizhzhya NPP continues to work as usual, maintains the NPP facilities and monitors the radioactive situation. The radioactive background in the area of the nuclear power plant is normal,” the defence ministry spokesman added. (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia blames Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant attack on Ukrainian 'saboteurs'

Amid continued bombing of Ukrainian cities, Russian President Vladimir Putin said "the special military operation is going strictly according to plan".

The Russian president told his security council, "We are at war with neo-Nazis" while adding, "I will never give up on my conviction that Russians and Ukrainians are one people."

"We give green corridor to move foreign nationals," the Russian president said as he announced&nbsp;compensation for soldiers and their families&nbsp;who lost their lives and were injured in Ukraine.

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Putin had ordered military operation against Ukraine on February 24 as missiles began pounding the country. On Thursday, a Ukrainian delegation met Russian officials even as President Zelensky vowed to keep&nbsp;fighting.

Meanwhile, Sweden said it will summon Russian officials amid reports of violation of its airspace by Russian fighter jets. Reports claimed two Su-24 and two Su-27 fighter jets entered Sweden's airspace even as the country's Air Force said it was taking the incident "very seriously" amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Watch:&nbsp;Who is in Putin's inner circle?

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Amid the fighting, President Volodymyr Zelensky said if Ukraine falls then Russia would advance on the rest of Europe beginning with the Baltic states.

The Ukraine president said he is in touch with US President Biden. Reports claimed at least 33 people were killed as Russian shelling in the northern Ukrainian city of Chernihiv hit residential areas including schools and buildings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-russias-sarmat-intercontinental-ballistic-missile-can-change-battlefield-dynamic-458549">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Sarmat ICBM can change battlefield dynamic</a>

Chernihiv governor said Russian aircraft also attacked two schools in the Staraya Podusivka area. Reports say at least 350 civilians have been killed so far in the past eight days after Russia launched its attack last Thursday.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid continued bombing of Ukrainian cities, Russian President Vladimir Putin said "the special military operation is going strictly according to plan". The Russian president told his security council, "We are at war with neo-Nazis" while adding, "I will never give up on my conviction that Russians and Ukrainians are one people.

Amid continued bombing of Ukrainian cities, Russian President Vladimir Putin said "the special military operation is going strictly according to plan". The Russian president told his security council, "We are at war with neo-Nazis" while adding, "I will never give up on my conviction that Russians and Ukrainians are one people." "We give green corridor to move foreign nationals," the Russian president said as he announced compensation for soldiers and their families who lost their lives and were injured in Ukraine. Also Read in Pics: Who are Ukraine’s far-right Azov regiment? Here is what you should know Putin had ordered military operation against Ukraine on February 24 as missiles began pounding the country. On Thursday, a Ukrainian delegation met Russian officials even as President Zelensky vowed to keep fighting. Meanwhile, Sweden said it will summon Russian officials amid reports of violation of its airspace by Russian fighter jets. Reports claimed two Su-24 and two Su-27 fighter jets entered Sweden's airspace even as the country's Air Force said it was taking the incident "very seriously" amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Watch: Who is in Putin's inner circle? Amid the fighting, President Volodymyr Zelensky said if Ukraine falls then Russia would advance on the rest of Europe beginning with the Baltic states. The Ukraine president said he is in touch with US President Biden. Reports claimed at least 33 people were killed as Russian shelling in the northern Ukrainian city of Chernihiv hit residential areas including schools and buildings. Also Read in Pics: Sarmat ICBM can change battlefield dynamic Chernihiv governor said Russian aircraft also attacked two schools in the Staraya Podusivka area. Reports say at least 350 civilians have been killed so far in the past eight days after Russia launched its attack last Thursday. (With inputs from Agencies)

Military operation going according to plan, says Putin as casualties mount in Chernihiv

After students of Kharkiv received an advisory from the Indian embassy in Ukraine, medical students from the neighbouring city of Sumy are awaiting their turn. Both Kharkiv and Sumy are closer to the Russian border than those where India is carrying out extensive evacuation operations.

About 700 students are still taking shelter in bunkers. Speaking to WION, they say their grocery stock has begun running out.&nbsp;

“It has been five days since the shops in the locality have pulled their shutters down. I am left with what was purchased on day 1, when we learnt about the movement of Russian troops in Ukraine,” said Akshay Jain, a medical student from Sumy State University.

“Our local contractor, who is in charge of the hostel, has asked us to stay put and not move around until told. There’s curfew and I am told the metros are shut,” the 21-year-old student added.

Students from both Kharkiv and Sumy are taking to social media seeking help. Students from Kharkiv, who reached Pisochyn last evening have been taken towards Lviv in groups. Though many are still in Kharkiv trying to reach Pisochyn.

In the latest advisory, Indian&nbsp;embassy to Ukraine has asked students still in Kharkiv to fill a form to take stock of the number of students still stranded in the region. Those who have reached Pisochyn have been asked to refrain from filling the form.

The embassy tweeted, “All Indian Nationals who are in KHARKIV excluding PISOCHYN, please fill up details contained in the form on an urgent basis.”

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All Indian Nationals who are in KHARKIV excluding PISOCHYN, please fill up details contained in the form on an urgent basis: <a href="https://t.co/hm5ayU5UgC">https://t.co/hm5ayU5UgC</a>
— India in Ukraine (@IndiainUkraine) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainUkraine/status/1499372633019854851?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In a plea to be evacuated safely, a medical student from Sumy tweeted, “Respected Volodymyr Zelenskyy, we are Indian students from Sumy. Please permit us to leave through the Russian border. We just want to get back to our country safely to our homes. We are patiently waiting for you cooperation. We have faith that you will understand our situation. Thank you.”

As per government sources, “The process of moving students from Sumy to a safe location will begin this evening.”

After students of Kharkiv received an advisory from the Indian embassy in Ukraine, medical students from the neighbouring city of Sumy are awaiting their turn. Both Kharkiv and Sumy are closer to the Russian border than those where India is carrying out extensive evacuation operations.

After students of Kharkiv received an advisory from the Indian embassy in Ukraine, medical students from the neighbouring city of Sumy are awaiting their turn. Both Kharkiv and Sumy are closer to the Russian border than those where India is carrying out extensive evacuation operations. About 700 students are still taking shelter in bunkers. Speaking to WION, they say their grocery stock has begun running out. “It has been five days since the shops in the locality have pulled their shutters down. I am left with what was purchased on day 1, when we learnt about the movement of Russian troops in Ukraine,” said Akshay Jain, a medical student from Sumy State University. “Our local contractor, who is in charge of the hostel, has asked us to stay put and not move around until told. There’s curfew and I am told the metros are shut,” the 21-year-old student added. Students from both Kharkiv and Sumy are taking to social media seeking help. Students from Kharkiv, who reached Pisochyn last evening have been taken towards Lviv in groups. Though many are still in Kharkiv trying to reach Pisochyn. In the latest advisory, Indian embassy to Ukraine has asked students still in Kharkiv to fill a form to take stock of the number of students still stranded in the region. Those who have reached Pisochyn have been asked to refrain from filling the form. The embassy tweeted, “All Indian Nationals who are in KHARKIV excluding PISOCHYN, please fill up details contained in the form on an urgent basis.” All Indian Nationals who are in KHARKIV excluding PISOCHYN, please fill up details contained in the form on an urgent basis: https://t.co/hm5ayU5UgC — India in Ukraine (@IndiainUkraine) March 3, 2022 × In a plea to be evacuated safely, a medical student from Sumy tweeted, “Respected Volodymyr Zelenskyy, we are Indian students from Sumy. Please permit us to leave through the Russian border. We just want to get back to our country safely to our homes. We are patiently waiting for you cooperation. We have faith that you will understand our situation. Thank you.” As per government sources, “The process of moving students from Sumy to a safe location will begin this evening.”

Ukraine war witness account: Still in bunkers, Indian students in Sumy await advisory

How Russia's Sarmat Intercontinental ballistic missile can change battlefield dynamic

After reports claimed a Russian billionaire's luxury yacht was seized by German authorities, reports said French officials have immobilized a yacht owned by a company linked to Russia's Rosneft Chief Executive Officer Igor Sechin amid sanctions imposed by the European Union against Russians.

The yacht was reportedly seized by French customs officials near Marseille.

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French finance minister Bruno Le Marie was quick&nbsp;to thank French customs officials after it was prevented from leaving the Mediterranean port. Earlier reports said German authorities had seized a super luxury yacht owned by Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov.

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Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

The yacht was reportedly taken to Hamburg after it had undergone refitting at a different location. The European Union imposed sanctions on Russian tycoons and prominent people after&nbsp;Russia's invasion against Ukraine.

Watch:&nbsp;‘Go home’: Ukrainians yell at armed Russian soldiers invasion

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The French government had said earlier that it was drawing up a list of assets of ultra-rich Russians&nbsp;with some billionaires believed to be close to Putin's regime.

Rosneft chief Igor Sechin is also reportedly also close to Putin. In another related development, well known Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich who owned the Chelsea football team in England announced that he would be selling the Premier League club. Abramovich declared that the money from the deal would be sent to victims of the Ukraine war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-unleashes-turkeys-bayraktar-tb2-drones-on-russia-is-it-a-gamechanger-458271">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Ukraine unleashes Turkey's Bayraktar TB2 drones on Russia</a>

The United States and EU announced a slew of sanctions against Russia after President Putin declared on February 24 that his forces had begun conducting military operations in neighbouring Ukraine.

The US and EU sanctions have targeted Russia's financial and airline sector even as US President said targeting Russian oil was "not off the table".

(With inputs from Agencies)

After reports claimed a Russian billionaire's luxury yacht was seized by German authorities, reports said French officials have immobilized a yacht owned by a company linked to Russia's Rosneft Chief Executive Officer Igor Sechin amid sanctions imposed by the European Union against Russians.

After reports claimed a Russian billionaire's luxury yacht was seized by German authorities, reports said French officials have immobilized a yacht owned by a company linked to Russia's Rosneft Chief Executive Officer Igor Sechin amid sanctions imposed by the European Union against Russians. The yacht was reportedly seized by French customs officials near Marseille. Also Read in Pics: How Russia's Sarmat ICBM can change battlefield dynamic French finance minister Bruno Le Marie was quick to thank French customs officials after it was prevented from leaving the Mediterranean port. Earlier reports said German authorities had seized a super luxury yacht owned by Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov. French customs seize yacht of Igor Sechin, Rosneft boss, former KGB agent and Russian deputy prime minister, the closest fo close Putin cronies pic.twitter.com/XQgx6sG05W — Pierre Briançon (@pierrebri) March 3, 2022 × Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. The yacht was reportedly taken to Hamburg after it had undergone refitting at a different location. The European Union imposed sanctions on Russian tycoons and prominent people after Russia's invasion against Ukraine. Watch: ‘Go home’: Ukrainians yell at armed Russian soldiers invasion The French government had said earlier that it was drawing up a list of assets of ultra-rich Russians with some billionaires believed to be close to Putin's regime. Rosneft chief Igor Sechin is also reportedly also close to Putin. In another related development, well known Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich who owned the Chelsea football team in England announced that he would be selling the Premier League club. Abramovich declared that the money from the deal would be sent to victims of the Ukraine war. Also Read in Pics: Ukraine unleashes Turkey's Bayraktar TB2 drones on Russia The United States and EU announced a slew of sanctions against Russia after President Putin declared on February 24 that his forces had begun conducting military operations in neighbouring Ukraine. The US and EU sanctions have targeted Russia's financial and airline sector even as US President said targeting Russian oil was "not off the table". (With inputs from Agencies)

Now, France targets superyacht linked to Russia's Rosneft chief

Ukraine unleashes Turkey's Bayraktar TB2 drones on Russia: Is it a gamechanger?