The war in Ukraine is approaching its first anniversary. So far, the cycle of death, destruction and dislocation has failed to stop. Peace talks have been ruled out. But both sides have regularly freed prisoners in swap. In a fresh swap, Russia and Ukraine traded almost 200 prisoners of war. Moscow says 63 Russian troops have returned from Ukraine following the swap. Russia added the swap includes some 'special category' prisoners. The release of special category prisoners was secured following mediation by the UAE. Zelensky's aide said 116 Ukrainians have returned. As per the international committee of the red cross, prisoners of war must be released and repatriated at the end of active hostilities. But some factors like health, parole policies and special agreements among states can lead to earlier release. It is unclear if Russia and Ukraine arrived at some agreement, leading to the latest swap.

Russia & Ukraine exchange prisoners of war | World News | WION

Russia has once again replaced its military commander in Ukraine putting army chief of staff Valery Gerasimov in charge of its forces in the conflict. Watch this to know more.

Why is Russia replacing its top military commander in Ukraine again?

Russia replaces military commander in Ukraine again

Russia claims to have killed "more than 600 Ukrainian servicemen" in the eastern Ukrainian city of Kramatorsk as a "retaliatory strike" for the deaths of 89 soldiers who died in Makiivka.

Russia claims it killed over '600 Ukrainian servicemen' in 'retaliatory strike'

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

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

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

Kyrylo Budanov spoke from Kyiv during a televised interview released on Wednesday (January 4). When asked whether there'll be more attacks inside of Russia, the Ukrainian spy chief said attacks would be "deeper and deeper" inside the country.

Expect more strikes 'deeper and deeper' into Russia, says Ukraine’s spy chief

A heavy fight is taking place in South Eastern Ukraine. Ukraine's Ministry claimed to inflict huge casualties on the Russian army over the last 24 hours. This even led France to send light armored combat vehicles to Ukraine to help in the war against Russia.

Ukraine war: France pledges to send armored vehicles to Ukraine amid war with Russia

An Italian theatre on Friday called off a show by a prominent Russian dancer who has three tattoos of President Vladimir Putin on his chest and shoulders, reacting to online protests over the artist's scheduled appearance.

Sergei Polunin's Jan&nbsp;28-29 show at Milan's Arcimboldi theatre was cancelled "due to the pressing campaign (against it) on the internet and social media", the theatre said on its website.

Polunin was due to star in the 'Rasputin - Dance Drama'&nbsp;ballet, originally scheduled for 2019 and repeatedly postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The theatre said the cancellation was an act of "political and moral responsibility", given "a climate of tensions and threats". A spokeswoman said the theatre had been subjected to an email campaign as well as many negative messages online.&nbsp;

The Arcimboldi, which said it had taken the decision in agreement with the artist's company, said it was firmly against the war in Ukraine, noting it had staged shows by the Russian dissidents' group Pussy Riot and Ukrainian artists.&nbsp;

Polunin, one of the biggest names in the dance world and a former principal at the Royal Ballet in London, was born in Ukraine, but acquired Russian citizenship in 2018. There was no immediate reply to a request for comment via his website.

In September, while on tour in Uzbekistan, he performed a dance in military uniform for fallen Russian soldiers, earning a reprimand from Uzbek authorities, who said he had deviated from an agreed programme.

Performances by Russian artists and Russian artworks have become controversial in the West, in the wake of Moscow's military campaign against Ukraine, which started on Feb. 24.

In Milan, the La Scala opera house sidelined Russian conductor Valery Gergiev after he failed to condemn the invasion, but stood by its decision to open its 2022-2023 season with the Russian work "Boris Godunov".

An Italian theatre on Friday called off a show by a prominent Russian dancer who has three tattoos of President Vladimir Putin on his chest and shoulders, reacting to online protests over the artist's scheduled appearance.

An Italian theatre on Friday called off a show by a prominent Russian dancer who has three tattoos of President Vladimir Putin on his chest and shoulders, reacting to online protests over the artist's scheduled appearance. Sergei Polunin's Jan 28-29 show at Milan's Arcimboldi theatre was cancelled "due to the pressing campaign (against it) on the internet and social media", the theatre said on its website. Polunin was due to star in the 'Rasputin - Dance Drama' ballet, originally scheduled for 2019 and repeatedly postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The theatre said the cancellation was an act of "political and moral responsibility", given "a climate of tensions and threats". A spokeswoman said the theatre had been subjected to an email campaign as well as many negative messages online. The Arcimboldi, which said it had taken the decision in agreement with the artist's company, said it was firmly against the war in Ukraine, noting it had staged shows by the Russian dissidents' group Pussy Riot and Ukrainian artists. Polunin, one of the biggest names in the dance world and a former principal at the Royal Ballet in London, was born in Ukraine, but acquired Russian citizenship in 2018. There was no immediate reply to a request for comment via his website. In September, while on tour in Uzbekistan, he performed a dance in military uniform for fallen Russian soldiers, earning a reprimand from Uzbek authorities, who said he had deviated from an agreed programme. Performances by Russian artists and Russian artworks have become controversial in the West, in the wake of Moscow's military campaign against Ukraine, which started on Feb. 24. In Milan, the La Scala opera house sidelined Russian conductor Valery Gergiev after he failed to condemn the invasion, but stood by its decision to open its 2022-2023 season with the Russian work "Boris Godunov".

Italy theatre cancels show by Putin-tattooed Russian dancer

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

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

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

Zelensky presents Ukraine battle flag to U.S. Congress

European Parliament's Vice-President Eva Kaili has been arrested on charges of corruption and money-laundering. Kaili is accused of accepting money and gifts from Qatar in exchange of influencing European policy in Doha's favour. @MollyGambhir tells you.

European Parliament corruption: Vice President Eva Kaili arrested for accepting money from Qatar

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has issued a statement that says it has visited more prisoners of war held by Russia and Ukraine in recent weeks. The body further said that it checked on their condition and treatment and shared "much-awaited news with their families."&nbsp;

"The ICRC last week carried out one two-day visit to Ukrainian prisoners of war, with another happening this week. During the same period, visits were also carried out to Russian prisoners of war, with more visits planned by the end of the month," it said in a statement.

"Our teams were also able to provide items such as books, personal hygiene items, blankets, and warm clothes," it added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-tears-flow-as-warring-nations-exchange-prisoners-of-war-531716">Tears flow as warring nations exchange prisoners of war</a>

The ICRC said that even though the visits signify "important progress," it need to be granted unimpeded access to see all prisoners of war "repeatedly and in private".&nbsp;

Talking about the messages they carry to these prisoners, the statement said, "ICRC teams are reaching out to families of prisoners of war to share updates from their loved ones. Most updates are short notes of love and personal news. Some ask family members not to worry. Others ask them for cigarettes, socks, and sweets. All these messages are a lifeline for anguished relatives."

Ukraine and Russia have not disclosed the numbers of prisoners of war they are holding.

"These visits are an important step forward in preserving humanity amidst the brutality of the international armed conflict," ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has issued a statement that says it has visited more prisoners of war held by Russia and Ukraine in recent weeks.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has issued a statement that says it has visited more prisoners of war held by Russia and Ukraine in recent weeks. The body further said that it checked on their condition and treatment and shared "much-awaited news with their families." "The ICRC last week carried out one two-day visit to Ukrainian prisoners of war, with another happening this week. During the same period, visits were also carried out to Russian prisoners of war, with more visits planned by the end of the month," it said in a statement. "Our teams were also able to provide items such as books, personal hygiene items, blankets, and warm clothes," it added. Also Read | Tears flow as warring nations exchange prisoners of war The ICRC said that even though the visits signify "important progress," it need to be granted unimpeded access to see all prisoners of war "repeatedly and in private". Talking about the messages they carry to these prisoners, the statement said, "ICRC teams are reaching out to families of prisoners of war to share updates from their loved ones. Most updates are short notes of love and personal news. Some ask family members not to worry. Others ask them for cigarettes, socks, and sweets. All these messages are a lifeline for anguished relatives." Ukraine and Russia have not disclosed the numbers of prisoners of war they are holding. "These visits are an important step forward in preserving humanity amidst the brutality of the international armed conflict," ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric was quoted as saying. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Red Cross visits prisoners of war held by Russia and Ukraine, delivers 'much-awaited news' with families

The United States said that it has not "encouraged" Ukraine to strike into Russia after drone attacks on bases widely seen as carried out by Kyiv.

US has not encouraged or enabled Ukraine to strike inside Russia, says Blinken

Russia-Ukraine War: 'Not encouraging' Ukraine strikes into Russia, says US

Despite US attempts to strangle the Russian economy, Moscow has successfully found new markets for its biggest exports, including energy products. However, the United States has also continued to buy Russian goods, even increasing its imports in recent months.

US imports from Russia increases from September to October: Report

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

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

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

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

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

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

A couple has been arrested by the Swedish security forces in Stockholm as the married couple in their 60s are suspected of spying for Russia, according to authorities local media reported. Reportedly, the couple belongs to Russia and had moved to Sweden shortly before 2000.

Sweden: Couple arrested on suspicion of spying for Russia; third suspect bought in for questioning

The European Parliament declared Russia as a "state sponsor of terrorism" on Tuesday for the "brutal and inhumane" acts inflicted by the government and military on Ukraine since the start of the conflict. The resolution was approved during the monthly plenary session in Strasbourg with 494 member states voting in favour, 58 against it and 44 members decided to abstain completely.

It was introduced by European People's Party, Renew Europe and the European Conservatives and Reformists group (ECR) against Russia’s "illegal, unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression".

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"The deliberate attacks and atrocities carried out by the Russian Federation against the civilian population of Ukraine, the destruction of civilian infrastructure and other serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law amount to acts of terror against the Ukrainian population and constitute war crimes," the resolution read according to AFP.

"In the light of the above, (the European Parliament) recognises Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism and as a state which uses means of terrorism," it further stated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/virginia-multiple-fatalities-reported-after-mass-shooting-at-chesapeake-walmart-536650">Virginia: Seven killed in mass shooting at Chesapeake Walmart, shooter among dead, say cops</a>

The members of the EU parliament also condemned the humanitarian as well as food crisis created by the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war all around the world. As a result, they decided to develop a new legal framework to prevent such situation and hold the responsible countries accountable.

Apart from the criticism, the resolution also demanded for a "comprehensive international isolation" of Russia and implementation of sanctions both on the economic as well as political fronts.

"Contacts with its official representatives at all levels (should) be kept to the absolute minimum necessary," lawmakers said while explaining the measures EU have decided to take in the near future.

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The European Parliament declared Russia as a "state sponsor of terrorism" on Tuesday for the "brutal and inhumane" acts inflicted by the government and military on Ukraine since the start of the conflict.

The European Parliament declared Russia as a "state sponsor of terrorism" on Tuesday for the "brutal and inhumane" acts inflicted by the government and military on Ukraine since the start of the conflict. The resolution was approved during the monthly plenary session in Strasbourg with 494 member states voting in favour, 58 against it and 44 members decided to abstain completely. It was introduced by European People's Party, Renew Europe and the European Conservatives and Reformists group (ECR) against Russia’s "illegal, unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression". Also read | UK Supreme Court blocks Scotland from holding second independence referendum "The deliberate attacks and atrocities carried out by the Russian Federation against the civilian population of Ukraine, the destruction of civilian infrastructure and other serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law amount to acts of terror against the Ukrainian population and constitute war crimes," the resolution read according to AFP. "In the light of the above, (the European Parliament) recognises Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism and as a state which uses means of terrorism," it further stated. Also read | Virginia: Seven killed in mass shooting at Chesapeake Walmart, shooter among dead, say cops The members of the EU parliament also condemned the humanitarian as well as food crisis created by the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war all around the world. As a result, they decided to develop a new legal framework to prevent such situation and hold the responsible countries accountable. Apart from the criticism, the resolution also demanded for a "comprehensive international isolation" of Russia and implementation of sanctions both on the economic as well as political fronts. "Contacts with its official representatives at all levels (should) be kept to the absolute minimum necessary," lawmakers said while explaining the measures EU have decided to take in the near future.

European Union parliament declares Russia 'state sponsor of terrorism'

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

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

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

Ukraine rolls first passenger train into newly freed Kherson

The world leaders attending the G20 Summit in Indonesia issued a joint declaration criticising the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. The final declaration, which was released at the end of the two-day international summit, also mentioned that most of the members strongly condemned Russia’s actions but there were a few disagreements. The United States and most western countries have taken Ukraine’s side.

“Many members… expressed concern about the damage caused by the conflict on critical health infrastructure, as well as casualties in health care workers, which have disproportionately affected the most vulnerable, women and children,” said the declaration as reported by Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-live-updates-missile-strikes-rattle-poland-un-calls-for-peace-amidst-fear-of-escalation-534593" hreflang="en">Russia-Ukraine LIVE | West closer to world war: Medvedev on missile incident</a>

The ongoing conflict has resulted in major economic crisis in several countries and severe problems with the supply chain responsible for the transport of items across the world. The G20 members hailed the grain deal brokered by the United Nations that allowed ships to leave Ukraine through the Black Sea and said that more such measures are needed to undo the damage caused by the war.

The members also pledged to maintain their promise when it comes to limiting the rise of global temperatures to 1.5 degree Celsius and stopping their over-reliance on fossil fuels.

WATCH |&nbsp;Final day of G20 meet: India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses summit

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“This will require meaningful and effective actions and commitment by all countries,” it read.

The G20 summit saw both Russia and Ukraine making their cases when it comes to the conflict with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressing the world leaders and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov attending the summit in place of President Vladimir Putin.

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The world leaders attending the G20 Summit in Indonesia issued a joint declaration criticising the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. The final declaration, which was released at the end of the two-day international summit, also mentioned that most of the members strongly condemned Russia’s actions but there were a few disagreements.

The world leaders attending the G20 Summit in Indonesia issued a joint declaration criticising the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. The final declaration, which was released at the end of the two-day international summit, also mentioned that most of the members strongly condemned Russia’s actions but there were a few disagreements. The United States and most western countries have taken Ukraine’s side. “Many members… expressed concern about the damage caused by the conflict on critical health infrastructure, as well as casualties in health care workers, which have disproportionately affected the most vulnerable, women and children,” said the declaration as reported by Reuters. Also read | Russia-Ukraine LIVE | West closer to world war: Medvedev on missile incident The ongoing conflict has resulted in major economic crisis in several countries and severe problems with the supply chain responsible for the transport of items across the world. The G20 members hailed the grain deal brokered by the United Nations that allowed ships to leave Ukraine through the Black Sea and said that more such measures are needed to undo the damage caused by the war. The members also pledged to maintain their promise when it comes to limiting the rise of global temperatures to 1.5 degree Celsius and stopping their over-reliance on fossil fuels. WATCH | Final day of G20 meet: India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses summit “This will require meaningful and effective actions and commitment by all countries,” it read. The G20 summit saw both Russia and Ukraine making their cases when it comes to the conflict with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressing the world leaders and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov attending the summit in place of President Vladimir Putin.

'Today's era must not be of war': G20 declaration condemns armed conflict in Ukraine

Turkey's President Erdogan believes that the Russia-Ukraine grain deal, which is set to expire on Saturday, would remain in place and it will be extended by a year

Turkey President Erdogan hopeful to extend grain deal which is set to expire on November 19

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

Russia-Ukraine War: Locals welcome Ukraine soldiers in Kherson

The Ukrainian army has said that it has made more gains in the Kherson region after Russia ordered for its troops to be withdrawn. The Ukrainian troops now claim that they have taken at least 41 settlements which is situated about 50 kilometers to the north of Kherson.

Ukraine recaptures key strategic town, claims major gains as Russia exits Kherson

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

Ukrainians prepare for harsh wartime winter

As the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, braces power blackouts after Russia reigned missiles in the country's electricity infrastructure, patients and staff or a hospital in Kyiv have been putting on a brave face despite the situation.

Ukraine braces for harsh winter as over a million Ukrainians don't have power supply

As the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, braces power blackouts after Russia reigned missiles in the country's electricity infrastructure, patients and staff or a hospital in Kiev have been putting on a brave face despite the situation.

Russia targets Ukraine's infrastructure; Kyiv hospital braces for blackout

One of the most priceless treasures from the bloody dominion of Attila the Hun, who rampaged with cavalry troops deep into Europe in the 5th century, was the magnificent golden tiara, inlaid with precious stones by expert artisans some 1,500 years ago.

Historians worry that the Hun diadem may have disappeared forever from the Ukrainian museum where it had formerly been on display. After seizing the Ukrainian city of Melitopol in February, Russian troops reportedly carried off the valuable crown along with a trove of other treasures, according to museum officials.

According to Ukrainian authorities, the eight-month-old Russian invasion of Ukraine has been followed by widespread destruction and looting of historical monuments and artefacts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-to-chair-security-council-meeting-on-monday-reports-523805">President Vladimir Putin to chair Russian Security Council meeting on Monday: Reports</a>

The cultural minister of Ukraine claimed that Russian military took antiques from approximately 40 Ukrainian museums. According to the minister, Oleksandr Tkachenko, the looting and destruction of cultural sites resulted in damages that are believed to be in the hundreds of millions of euros (dollars).

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The fourth century B.C. golden pectoral, an ancient treasure from a Scythian king's burial mound, is exhibited in the Museum of Historical Treasures in Kyiv, Ukraine. Photo credits: AP

“These are museums, historical buildings, churches. Everything that was built and created by generations of Ukrainians,” Ukraine’s first lady, Olena Zelenska, said in September when she visited a Ukrainian museum in New York. “This is a war against our identity.”

When <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-ramps-up-security-after-crimean-bridge-blast-523732">Russian troops</a> attacked the southern city of Melitopol, employees at the Museum of Local History in Melitopol sought to hide the Hun diadem and hundreds of other valuables at first. Russian soldiers, however, eventually located the building's hidden basement, where personnel had hidden the museum's most priceless items, including the Hun diadem, after weeks of persistent searching.

Ukrainian authorities who were expelled from the southern city that was repeatedly bombarded by Russian forces said that Russian forces plundered museums while they destroyed the Black Sea port of Mariupol. Only in May, when Ukrainian defenders who had been holding on to the city's steelworks, did it completely fall under Moscow's hands.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-economy-shrank-by-30-in-first-three-quarters-of-2022-523828">Ukraine's economy shrank by 30% in the first three quarters of 2022</a>

The cultural heritage of Ukraine has also suffered significant harm and devastation as a result of the invasion. The cultural agency of the United Nations keeps track of the locations that are being shelled, bombed, and hit by missiles. The agency reports that it has confirmed damage to 199 sites across 12 areas, eight months into the war.

(With inputs from agencies)

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One of the most priceless treasures from the bloody dominion of Attila the Hun, who rampaged with cavalry troops deep into Europe in the 5th century, was the magnificent golden tiara, inlaid with precious stones by expert artisans some 1,500 years ago.

One of the most priceless treasures from the bloody dominion of Attila the Hun, who rampaged with cavalry troops deep into Europe in the 5th century, was the magnificent golden tiara, inlaid with precious stones by expert artisans some 1,500 years ago. Historians worry that the Hun diadem may have disappeared forever from the Ukrainian museum where it had formerly been on display. After seizing the Ukrainian city of Melitopol in February, Russian troops reportedly carried off the valuable crown along with a trove of other treasures, according to museum officials. According to Ukrainian authorities, the eight-month-old Russian invasion of Ukraine has been followed by widespread destruction and looting of historical monuments and artefacts. Also read | President Vladimir Putin to chair Russian Security Council meeting on Monday: Reports The cultural minister of Ukraine claimed that Russian military took antiques from approximately 40 Ukrainian museums. According to the minister, Oleksandr Tkachenko, the looting and destruction of cultural sites resulted in damages that are believed to be in the hundreds of millions of euros (dollars). The fourth century B.C. golden pectoral, an ancient treasure from a Scythian king's burial mound, is exhibited in the Museum of Historical Treasures in Kyiv, Ukraine. Photo credits: AP “These are museums, historical buildings, churches. Everything that was built and created by generations of Ukrainians,” Ukraine’s first lady, Olena Zelenska, said in September when she visited a Ukrainian museum in New York. “This is a war against our identity.” When Russian troops attacked the southern city of Melitopol, employees at the Museum of Local History in Melitopol sought to hide the Hun diadem and hundreds of other valuables at first. Russian soldiers, however, eventually located the building's hidden basement, where personnel had hidden the museum's most priceless items, including the Hun diadem, after weeks of persistent searching. Ukrainian authorities who were expelled from the southern city that was repeatedly bombarded by Russian forces said that Russian forces plundered museums while they destroyed the Black Sea port of Mariupol. Only in May, when Ukrainian defenders who had been holding on to the city's steelworks, did it completely fall under Moscow's hands. Also read | Ukraine's economy shrank by 30% in the first three quarters of 2022 The cultural heritage of Ukraine has also suffered significant harm and devastation as a result of the invasion. The cultural agency of the United Nations keeps track of the locations that are being shelled, bombed, and hit by missiles. The agency reports that it has confirmed damage to 199 sites across 12 areas, eight months into the war. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

‘War crime:’ Large-scale destruction of Ukraine's culture