The darling of most American media until November 5, Kamala Harris is suddenly off the headlines. But she will go down in history as the valiant fighter who came tantalisingly&nbsp;close to becoming the first woman US president. 
 
Had she won&nbsp;against Republican President-elect Donald Trump, Harris would have also been the first Asian and Indian-American to occupy the White House.

That was not to be.

Watch: Why Kamala Harris Lost The US Election?

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One wonders why she lost the election.

While I wrote here earlier that she is unlikely to win (link below), the 226 electoral votes she got against Donald Trump's 312 – the majority mark being 270 – is quite impressive for a late-start campaign.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/kamala-harris-for-president-after-biden-exits-race-vice-president-enters-what-are-her-chances-743300">Also read:&nbsp;Kamala Harris for president: After Biden exits, his vice president enters race, but can she win?</a> 
 
That late start was indeed one of the key issues.

Even some Democrats must have felt that she leapfrogged the proper process – the Democratic primaries – and was thrust into the limelight when incumbent president and Democratic nominee Joe Biden pulled out after days of inner-party squabbles.

<h2>How the Democrats ruined it for Kamala Harris</h2>

If she were in the Democratic primaries, could her fate have been different?

That's a big if.&nbsp; 
 
Suppose Harris was on the ballot for primaries. Even while being the incumbent vice president, she would have had to criticise Biden, and by extension, her own government.&nbsp;

As it happened, there were no serious contenders against Biden since he formally announced his re-election bid.

His Democratic primary opponents: author Marianne Williamson, Representative Dean Phillips and Robert F Kennedy Jr, exited the race one way or the other.

RJF Jr, from the hallowed and mostly Democratic Kennedy family, was the only temporary jolt for the party machine. Having started as a Democratic contender, RFK Jr switched to independent and eventually pulled out, only to support Trump, and is being rewarded with a role in the upcoming Trump administration.

Biden had an impressive number of delegates going into the Democratic Party Convention in August.

But a lot happened in July.

It was a tight situation for Democrats when, having gone into election mode after Biden won the required delegates to be declared the presidential candidate at the convention, they realised the 81-year-old was not a good pick, after all.

Biden's endless gaffes, slips and falls made many question&nbsp;his physical and mental capabilities to run for the top office once again.

His fumbling and rambling answers during the presidential debate with Trump in June made him look weak.&nbsp;

And then, Democrats went into a tizzy, creating the unprecedented situation of pressurising a candidate, who had done one presidential debate with the opponent,&nbsp;to exit the race.

Media reports about Biden's failing health followed, and Democrat donors threatened to pull campaign cash if Biden didn't exit.

Despite issuing nice-looking health report cards and his own assurances that he's fit to run for office again, many Democrat voters were still not convinced.

Or so the party thought.

Nancy Pelosi, the Democrat dame and speaker emeritus, as well as other senior leaders including, reportedly, ex-president Barack Obama, tried to convince Biden to quit the race.

Eventually, he relented, but in hindsight, that was too late, too little.

<h2>Harris campaign: A dash towards defeat</h2>

While there were reports of a 'palace coup' in which Harris was already putting in place a team in case Biden decided not to run, the time left for a robust campaign was too little.

In what raised many eyebrows, Biden 'transferred' all the delegates he had amassed to Kamala and her running mate Tim Walz and the Democratic Convention named them the candidates in a&nbsp;&nbsp;'roll-call nomination.'

The whole thing was mocked widely, particularly in the right-wing media, who painted Harris (it seems successful) as an imposter.

Having a rather forgettable running mate in Walz didn't help matters either for Harris.&nbsp;

Her media blitzkrieg of unusual appearances at TV and web shows were seen by many as ambushes.

The host of Call Her Daddy, a rather non-political show, was criticised for having invited her as a guest.

Fox News ran a campaign on how Kamala didn't address an open press conference, instead choosing to do one-on-one interviews seen as stage-managed affairs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-kamala-harris-said-in-concession-speech-while-trump-plans-first-100-days-in-white-house-774159">Kamala Harris delivers defiant concession speech as Trump wins 2024 presidential election</a>

And then, there were the 'word salads'.

Many of her answers to serious questions were rather convoluted, particularly America's support to Israel in its war against Hamas, and to Ukraine against Russia.

On the Israel question, it emerged that CBS 60 Minutes edited out parts of her interview – or re-recorded it &nbsp;– to make the answer more palatable.

Trump and his surrogates went to town to expose her on these.&nbsp;

Trump, whose track record is anti-war – not because of any noble ideal, but because he doesn't want to fight in or pay for wars where American interests are not directly under attack – criticised US funding to Ukraine's war efforts.

He kept on saying in campaign speeches that he is the only one who could end the wars.&nbsp;

Many uncommitted voters, part of the silent majority, appear to have believed him.

Arab- and Muslim-Americans were particularly riled by the Biden administration's failure to stop the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, which was invaded by Israel after the October 7 terror attack by Hamas.

The Harris campaign's communication efforts were annoying at best and outrageous at worst.

They couldn't advise her not to laugh out loud so much.

That led to 'cackling Kamala' jokes and memes, which Trump and his supporters exploited to the hilt.

There were gems like the advert appearing to suggest women reject Black men if they are not voting Democrat.

In their speeches for Harris addressed to African Americans, Barack Obama and his wife Michelle appeared to come across as condescending.

It was like, here are some entitled African-American leaders telling the Blacks how to live their lives, do their jobs, and vote.

That may have flipped many Blacks to vote for Trump.

On the economy, she appeared out of touch with the cost of living reality of middle-class and working-class Americans, despite insisting on all possible occasions that she comes from a middle-class background.

As practically the immigration tzar of the Biden administration, Harris had not much to boast of.

Many Latin American voters, it appears, may have voted for Trump because they also share the same worries and fears about migration from lawless lands in the continent as much as the white majority who Trump considers his base.

Trump succeeded in making Harris look weak on illegal migration from the southern border, as caravans of asylum seekers poured in.

That leaves us with women and young voters.&nbsp;

Quite stunningly, it emerged as per exit polls that fewer women voted for Harris than they did for Biden in 2020.

Abortion, the main issue Democrats thought would galvanise women towards Harris, did not work.

Neither did Harris' efforts to paint Trump as a dictator and anti-woman.

It might seem improbable, but Trump's escape from an assassination attempt, and his non-committal stance on banning Chinese-owned TikTok may have drawn more youngsters to him.

The TikTok ban move by the Biden administration was a risky one politically. The Democrats didn't understand how much American kids loved the short video-sharing platform. For them, it was a form of communication and self-expression for a generation.

While these may not be the only reasons, it is clear that Trump was preferred over Harris by many in Gen Z and millennials.&nbsp;

Also, note that there was an effort ahead of the Democratic primary to put 'uncommitted' as an option.

This means many of the Democratic voters were not ready for Biden.

It is quite possible that some of them may have voted for Trump.

In summary, while much of the reasons for her defeat had to do with circumstances, Harris didn't help her own campaign.

Now as per custom, the vice president faces the ignominy of signing the document that will declare Trump as the next president after the joint Congress session on January 6, right on the fourth anniversary of the Capitol riots instigated by Trump in rejection of the 2020 election outcome.

Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

The darling of most American media until November 5, Kamala Harris is suddenly off the headlines. But she will go down in history as the valiant fighter who came tantalisingly close to becoming the first woman US president.

The darling of most American media until November 5, Kamala Harris is suddenly off the headlines. But she will go down in history as the valiant fighter who came tantalisingly close to becoming the first woman US president. Had she won against Republican President-elect Donald Trump, Harris would have also been the first Asian and Indian-American to occupy the White House. That was not to be. Watch: Why Kamala Harris Lost The US Election? × One wonders why she lost the election. While I wrote here earlier that she is unlikely to win (link below), the 226 electoral votes she got against Donald Trump's 312 – the majority mark being 270 – is quite impressive for a late-start campaign. Also read: Kamala Harris for president: After Biden exits, his vice president enters race, but can she win? That late start was indeed one of the key issues. Even some Democrats must have felt that she leapfrogged the proper process – the Democratic primaries – and was thrust into the limelight when incumbent president and Democratic nominee Joe Biden pulled out after days of inner-party squabbles. How the Democrats ruined it for Kamala Harris If she were in the Democratic primaries, could her fate have been different? That's a big if. Suppose Harris was on the ballot for primaries. Even while being the incumbent vice president, she would have had to criticise Biden, and by extension, her own government. As it happened, there were no serious contenders against Biden since he formally announced his re-election bid. His Democratic primary opponents: author Marianne Williamson, Representative Dean Phillips and Robert F Kennedy Jr, exited the race one way or the other. RJF Jr, from the hallowed and mostly Democratic Kennedy family, was the only temporary jolt for the party machine. Having started as a Democratic contender, RFK Jr switched to independent and eventually pulled out, only to support Trump, and is being rewarded with a role in the upcoming Trump administration. Biden had an impressive number of delegates going into the Democratic Party Convention in August. But a lot happened in July. It was a tight situation for Democrats when, having gone into election mode after Biden won the required delegates to be declared the presidential candidate at the convention, they realised the 81-year-old was not a good pick, after all. Biden's endless gaffes, slips and falls made many question his physical and mental capabilities to run for the top office once again. His fumbling and rambling answers during the presidential debate with Trump in June made him look weak. And then, Democrats went into a tizzy, creating the unprecedented situation of pressurising a candidate, who had done one presidential debate with the opponent, to exit the race. Media reports about Biden's failing health followed, and Democrat donors threatened to pull campaign cash if Biden didn't exit. Despite issuing nice-looking health report cards and his own assurances that he's fit to run for office again, many Democrat voters were still not convinced. Or so the party thought. Nancy Pelosi, the Democrat dame and speaker emeritus, as well as other senior leaders including, reportedly, ex-president Barack Obama, tried to convince Biden to quit the race. Eventually, he relented, but in hindsight, that was too late, too little. Harris campaign: A dash towards defeat While there were reports of a 'palace coup' in which Harris was already putting in place a team in case Biden decided not to run, the time left for a robust campaign was too little. In what raised many eyebrows, Biden 'transferred' all the delegates he had amassed to Kamala and her running mate Tim Walz and the Democratic Convention named them the candidates in a 'roll-call nomination.' The whole thing was mocked widely, particularly in the right-wing media, who painted Harris (it seems successful) as an imposter. Having a rather forgettable running mate in Walz didn't help matters either for Harris. Her media blitzkrieg of unusual appearances at TV and web shows were seen by many as ambushes. The host of Call Her Daddy, a rather non-political show, was criticised for having invited her as a guest. Fox News ran a campaign on how Kamala didn't address an open press conference, instead choosing to do one-on-one interviews seen as stage-managed affairs. Also read: Kamala Harris delivers defiant concession speech as Trump wins 2024 presidential election And then, there were the 'word salads'. Many of her answers to serious questions were rather convoluted, particularly America's support to Israel in its war against Hamas, and to Ukraine against Russia. On the Israel question, it emerged that CBS 60 Minutes edited out parts of her interview – or re-recorded it – to make the answer more palatable. Trump and his surrogates went to town to expose her on these. Trump, whose track record is anti-war – not because of any noble ideal, but because he doesn't want to fight in or pay for wars where American interests are not directly under attack – criticised US funding to Ukraine's war efforts. He kept on saying in campaign speeches that he is the only one who could end the wars. Many uncommitted voters, part of the silent majority, appear to have believed him. Arab- and Muslim-Americans were particularly riled by the Biden administration's failure to stop the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, which was invaded by Israel after the October 7 terror attack by Hamas. The Harris campaign's communication efforts were annoying at best and outrageous at worst. They couldn't advise her not to laugh out loud so much. That led to 'cackling Kamala' jokes and memes, which Trump and his supporters exploited to the hilt. There were gems like the advert appearing to suggest women reject Black men if they are not voting Democrat. In their speeches for Harris addressed to African Americans, Barack Obama and his wife Michelle appeared to come across as condescending. It was like, here are some entitled African-American leaders telling the Blacks how to live their lives, do their jobs, and vote. That may have flipped many Blacks to vote for Trump. On the economy, she appeared out of touch with the cost of living reality of middle-class and working-class Americans, despite insisting on all possible occasions that she comes from a middle-class background. As practically the immigration tzar of the Biden administration, Harris had not much to boast of. Many Latin American voters, it appears, may have voted for Trump because they also share the same worries and fears about migration from lawless lands in the continent as much as the white majority who Trump considers his base. Trump succeeded in making Harris look weak on illegal migration from the southern border, as caravans of asylum seekers poured in. That leaves us with women and young voters. Quite stunningly, it emerged as per exit polls that fewer women voted for Harris than they did for Biden in 2020. Abortion, the main issue Democrats thought would galvanise women towards Harris, did not work. Neither did Harris' efforts to paint Trump as a dictator and anti-woman. It might seem improbable, but Trump's escape from an assassination attempt, and his non-committal stance on banning Chinese-owned TikTok may have drawn more youngsters to him. The TikTok ban move by the Biden administration was a risky one politically. The Democrats didn't understand how much American kids loved the short video-sharing platform. For them, it was a form of communication and self-expression for a generation. While these may not be the only reasons, it is clear that Trump was preferred over Harris by many in Gen Z and millennials. Also, note that there was an effort ahead of the Democratic primary to put 'uncommitted' as an option. This means many of the Democratic voters were not ready for Biden. It is quite possible that some of them may have voted for Trump. In summary, while much of the reasons for her defeat had to do with circumstances, Harris didn't help her own campaign. Now as per custom, the vice president faces the ignominy of signing the document that will declare Trump as the next president after the joint Congress session on January 6, right on the fourth anniversary of the Capitol riots instigated by Trump in rejection of the 2020 election outcome. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Why did Kamala Harris lose US presidential election? Putting together the pieces of a puzzle

A Russian court on Tuesday (Nov. 12) sentenced an elderly pediatrician to five and a half years in prison for criticising the war in Ukraine during a patient visit.&nbsp;

This comes after the mother of one of her patients publicly denounced her for comments she allegedly made about Russian soldiers in Ukraine during a private consultation in January.&nbsp;

68-year-old Nadezhda Buyanova was accused by the ex-wife of a soldier killed in Ukraine of referring to her child's father as a "legitimate target of Ukraine" and saying Russia was "guilty" in the ongoing war.&nbsp;

Buyanova was jailed on charges of "disseminating false information” about Russia's military campaign in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Since the beginning of the Ukraine invasion in 2022, Russia has adopted a law against spreading "fake" information widely to silence differing opinions, reported the Guardian.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-prosecutor-asks-3-years-3-months-jail-for-french-researcher-for-breaching-foreign-agent-law-767380">Also read:&nbsp;Russian court sentences French researcher to 3 years' jail for breaching 'foreign agent' law</a>

Buyanova was born in Lviv, Ukraine, but has been a resident of Russia for a long time.&nbsp;

In her statement, she insisted on her innocence, saying that she had not discussed the war with the boy or his mother.

Her defence argued that she had been targeted because of her Ukrainian heritage, noting that prosecutors had no solid evidence to prove she had spoken against the war.

Moreover, there is no audio recording from the consultation room, and prosecutors relied only on the testimony of the seven-year-old boy and his mother, Anastasia Akinshina.

Watch |&nbsp;Russian Court Imposes $2.5 Decillion Fine on Google, Surpassing Global GDP

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Akinshina made a video that was quickly picked by pro-Kremlin media, in which she said, "I won’t let them sweep it up under the carpet!”&nbsp;

The case went viral after which Alexander Bastrykin, the hardline head of Russia’s Investigative Committee, vowed to take it under his personal control.&nbsp;

However, the case has attracted widespread condemnation from human rights groups, with Memorial, a prominent Russian human rights organisation, listing Buyanova as a political prisoner.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A Russian court on Tuesday (Nov. 12) sentenced an elderly pediatrician to five and a half years in prison for criticising the war in Ukraine during a patient visit.

A Russian court on Tuesday (Nov. 12) sentenced an elderly pediatrician to five and a half years in prison for criticising the war in Ukraine during a patient visit. This comes after the mother of one of her patients publicly denounced her for comments she allegedly made about Russian soldiers in Ukraine during a private consultation in January. 68-year-old Nadezhda Buyanova was accused by the ex-wife of a soldier killed in Ukraine of referring to her child's father as a "legitimate target of Ukraine" and saying Russia was "guilty" in the ongoing war. Buyanova was jailed on charges of "disseminating false information” about Russia's military campaign in Ukraine. Since the beginning of the Ukraine invasion in 2022, Russia has adopted a law against spreading "fake" information widely to silence differing opinions, reported the Guardian. Also read: Russian court sentences French researcher to 3 years' jail for breaching 'foreign agent' law Buyanova was born in Lviv, Ukraine, but has been a resident of Russia for a long time. In her statement, she insisted on her innocence, saying that she had not discussed the war with the boy or his mother. Her defence argued that she had been targeted because of her Ukrainian heritage, noting that prosecutors had no solid evidence to prove she had spoken against the war. Moreover, there is no audio recording from the consultation room, and prosecutors relied only on the testimony of the seven-year-old boy and his mother, Anastasia Akinshina. Watch | Russian Court Imposes $2.5 Decillion Fine on Google, Surpassing Global GDP × Akinshina made a video that was quickly picked by pro-Kremlin media, in which she said, "I won’t let them sweep it up under the carpet!” The case went viral after which Alexander Bastrykin, the hardline head of Russia’s Investigative Committee, vowed to take it under his personal control. However, the case has attracted widespread condemnation from human rights groups, with Memorial, a prominent Russian human rights organisation, listing Buyanova as a political prisoner. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian doctor gets five years' jail for criticising war in Ukraine during private consultation with patient

The Kremlin on Sunday (Nov 10) said that they observed "positive signals" from US President-elect Donald Trump's stance on Ukraine but cautioned that his actions in office remain unpredictable.

The Kremlin on Sunday (Nov 10) said that they observed "positive signals" from US President-elect Donald Trump's stance on Ukraine but cautioned that his actions in office remain unpredictable. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, in an interview with state media, said, "The signals are positive. Trump during his election talked about how he perceives everything through deals, that he can make a deal that can lead to peace." "At least he's talking about peace, and not about confrontation. He isn't talking about his wish to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia that distinguishes him from the current administration," Peskov continued. However, Peskov pointed out to Trump’s unpredictability, suggesting that only time would reveal if his presidency might contribute to resolving the conflict in Ukraine. “What will happen next, it's hard to say,” Peskov said, describing Trump as "less predictable" than Biden or Harris. Also read: Trump urges his supporters to bail out Democrats after ‘$1 billion disaster’ Peskov added, "It's also less predictable to what extent he will stick to the statements that he made on the campaign trail." Trump has not yet specified the terms of a potential peace agreement or how he plans to approach negotiations. Russian President Vladimir Putin has stressed that Ukraine must give up eastern and southern territories as a prerequisite for peace talks. In response to Trump’s victory, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned against any "concessions" to Putin, warning that surrendering land or meeting Russia’s demands could encourage further Kremlin aggression. Zelensky has also previously stressed that without continued US assistance, Ukraine’s ability to defend itself in the conflict would be at serious risk. Trump’s election brings the possibility of major changes to the nearly three-year conflict, raising questions over Washington’s multi-billion dollar support for Kyiv. During his campaign, Trump suggested he could bring an end to the fighting within hours and has indicated he would engage directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking a notable shift from President Joe Biden’s approach. (With inputs from agencies)

Kremlin sees ‘positive signals’ from Trump on Ukraine but warns of his ‘unpredictability’

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed a "Victory Plan" during a high-level meeting with UK Labour Party leader Keir Starmer and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte. The talks focused on strengthening Ukraine's military and diplomatic efforts in its ongoing war against Russia. Zelensky emphasized the importance of international support, military aid, and strategic alliances to secure Ukraine’s sovereignty and future. Both Starmer and Rutte reaffirmed their countries' commitment to assisting Ukraine in its defense and post-war recovery. The meeting underscored Ukraine’s determination to plan for victory while navigating the complex dynamics of the conflict.

Zelensky Talks 'Victory Plan' In Meeting With Starmer and Rutte

Russian airstrikes overnight and into the early hours targeted civilian and critical infrastructure across Ukraine, leaving at least seven people injured, authorities reported on Thursday (Oct 10).

Russian airstrikes overnight and into the early hours targeted civilian and critical infrastructure across Ukraine, leaving at least seven people injured, authorities reported on Thursday (Oct 10). Zaporizhzhia hit by guided bombs, leaving six injured In the southeastern city of Zaporizhzhia, guided bombs launched by Russia early in the morning wounded six people, including a 17-year-old girl, according to regional governor Ivan Fedorov. The strikes also caused damage to 29 buildings. Zaporizhzhia has faced repeated bombing in recent weeks, as Russian forces hold partial control over the surrounding area, which also hosts Europe's largest nuclear power plant, currently under Russian control. Also read: ‘It needs to go’: Tim Walz calls for scrapping of electoral college system Ukraine's air force announced on the Telegram platform that it successfully shot down 41 out of 62 drones launched by Russia. Additionally, eight missiles were fired, while 14 drones reportedly went "locationally lost." "As a result of the Russian missile and drone attacks civilian objects and critical infrastructure facilities in the Odesa, Poltava and Donetsk regions were hit," the Air Force statement said. Also read: IS-linked 5 Arab Israelis arrested for plotting car-bombing in Tel Aviv mall Drone attack in Kryvyi Rih injures two, damages residential building In Kryvyi Rih, the hometown of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, a drone strike injured two people and damaged a five-storey residential building, leading to a fire, according to Dnipropetrovsk regional governor Serhiy Lysak. Emergency services managed to rescue seven people from the damaged section of the building and extinguish the fire. The statement from the air force reiterated the impact on civilian and critical infrastructure in several regions, with attacks causing destruction and fires in multiple areas. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia hit by Russian airstrikes: Bombs injure six, including teen girl

Ukrainian forces are withdrawing from the front-line town of Vuhledar, strategically located on a key hill in eastern Ukraine, following more than two years of intense fighting, military officials announced on Wednesday. Vuhledar, a town fiercely defended by Ukrainian forces, is the latest urban area to fall to Russian control as the war enters its third year, with Ukrainian troops gradually losing ground in the eastern Donetsk province.

Ukraine’s Military Withdraws From Front-Line Town Of Vuhledar After 2 Years Of Fighting

Over 1,000 people have been killed or wounded by cluster munitions in Ukraine since the start of Russia's war, a monitor reported Monday, calling on all nations to ban these weapons.

Russia-Ukraine War: Cluster bombs have killed or wounded over 1,000 Ukrainians since 2022

Russia launched a total of 100 projectiles overnight targeting energy sites across Ukraine in a fresh salvo, the Ukrainian officials said on Saturday (June 1).

Russia has fired hundreds of missiles in its air offensive targeting Ukraine's power facilities since the war broke out, causing significant energy shortages and damage.

"The enemy launched 53 missiles of various types and 47 attack drones," the air force said, adding that it shot down 35 of the missiles and all but one of the drones.

The DTEK operator said that two thermal power plants were damaged in Moscow's assault, without mentioning details about their exact location.

"It was another extremely difficult night for the Ukrainian energy sector. The enemy struck two of our thermal power plants. The equipment was seriously damaged," the company said in a statement on Telegram.

This was the sixth major attack on DTEK thermal power plants since mid-March, the statement added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-exchange-150-prisoners-after-uae-brokered-deal-727558">Also read: Russia, Ukraine exchange 150 prisoners after UAE-brokered deal</a>

<h2>'Russia targeted sites in five regions,'&nbsp;says Ukraine's Energy Minister</h2>

Russia's air offensive targeted sites in five regions, Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovograd, Ivano-Frankivsk and Zaporizhzhia, stretching from near the eastern frontlines to Ukraine's west, which borders the European Union, said Ukraine's Energy Minister German Galushchenko.

The ministry further warned that due to the attacks, there would be power restrictions across the country on Saturday evening.

<h2>'Moscow exploiting lack of determination among Ukraine's key backers': Zelensky</h2>

President Volodymyr Zelensky said Moscow was making attempts to "exploit" the lack of "determination" among Ukraine's key Western backers, reiterating his call for more air defence systems.

"Russia's main goal is to normalise terror, to exploit the lack of sufficient air defence and determination of Ukraine's partners," he said in a social media post.

"This is a test of humanity and determination for the free world. Either we pass this test together, or the world will plunge into even greater destabilisation and chaos," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia launched a total of 100 projectiles overnight targeting energy sites across Ukraine in a fresh salvo, the Ukrainian officials said on Saturday (June 1). Russia has fired hundreds of missiles in its air offensive targeting Ukraine's power facilities since the war broke out, causing significant energy shortages and damage.

Russia launched a total of 100 projectiles overnight targeting energy sites across Ukraine in a fresh salvo, the Ukrainian officials said on Saturday (June 1). Russia has fired hundreds of missiles in its air offensive targeting Ukraine's power facilities since the war broke out, causing significant energy shortages and damage. "The enemy launched 53 missiles of various types and 47 attack drones," the air force said, adding that it shot down 35 of the missiles and all but one of the drones. The DTEK operator said that two thermal power plants were damaged in Moscow's assault, without mentioning details about their exact location. "It was another extremely difficult night for the Ukrainian energy sector. The enemy struck two of our thermal power plants. The equipment was seriously damaged," the company said in a statement on Telegram. This was the sixth major attack on DTEK thermal power plants since mid-March, the statement added. Also read: Russia, Ukraine exchange 150 prisoners after UAE-brokered deal 'Russia targeted sites in five regions,' says Ukraine's Energy Minister Russia's air offensive targeted sites in five regions, Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovograd, Ivano-Frankivsk and Zaporizhzhia, stretching from near the eastern frontlines to Ukraine's west, which borders the European Union, said Ukraine's Energy Minister German Galushchenko. The ministry further warned that due to the attacks, there would be power restrictions across the country on Saturday evening. 'Moscow exploiting lack of determination among Ukraine's key backers': Zelensky President Volodymyr Zelensky said Moscow was making attempts to "exploit" the lack of "determination" among Ukraine's key Western backers, reiterating his call for more air defence systems. "Russia's main goal is to normalise terror, to exploit the lack of sufficient air defence and determination of Ukraine's partners," he said in a social media post. "This is a test of humanity and determination for the free world. Either we pass this test together, or the world will plunge into even greater destabilisation and chaos," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia fires barrage of missiles targeting Ukraine’s energy sites

Ukraine claimed responsibility for the railway bridge blast in southwest Russia stating that it was being used by Moscow to transport "military cargo".&nbsp;

Kyiv on Monday (March 4) blew up the bridge in Russia's southwestern Samara region which is latest in the string of blasts targeting Russia's rail network which Ukraine says is used by Moscow to move troops and equipment for its invasion.

"A railway bridge over the Chapaevka River in Russia's Samara region was blown up. On 4 March 2024, at around 6:00 am (0200 GMT), the bridge was damaged by blowing up its support structures," Ukraine's military intelligence said.

Russia was transporting ammunition from a plant in the town of Chapayevsk via the railway line, it said.

"Given the nature of the damage to the railway bridge, its use will not be possible for a long time," it added.

Earlier, Russia's railway operator announced that "an intervention by non-authorised persons" had caused the explosion, however, it said that no one was injured.

"Rail traffic is suspended for the moment at this section," it said.

"An explosive device damaged a pillar on a rail bridge" over the Chapaevka river, Russia's official TASS agency quoted a source in the rescue services as saying.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-demands-explanation-from-germany-after-call-recording-over-ukraine-gets-leaked-696199">Ukraine war: Germany alleges Putin seeking to 'destabilise' country through wiretap</a>

<h2>Russian drone strike kills 10 in Ukrainian city of Odesa</h2>

Russian drone strike on an apartment block in the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa killed at least 10 people.&nbsp;

The deceased victims also included a four-month-old baby and a two-year-old, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Sunday was declared a day of mourning in Odesa. “Today, Odesa and the region are mourning the victims of the Russian attack,” said the Ukrainian regional official. He added, “It is a great pain not only for the Odesa region, but for the whole of Ukraine.”

<h2>Zelensky calls for Western air defence systems</h2>

Zelensky, on Saturday, urged Western countries to rapidly deliver more air-defence systems following a barrage of Russian strikes in recent days.&nbsp;

Overnight attacks, between Friday and Saturday, on frontline regions of Kharkiv in the northeast and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south killed another three people, reported AFP citing Ukrainian officials.&nbsp;

“We need more air defences from our partners. We need to strengthen the Ukrainian air shield to add more protection for our people from Russian terror,” said the Ukrainian president, in a post on social media.&nbsp;

He added, “More air-defence systems and more missiles for air-defence systems save lives.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukraine claimed responsibility for the railway bridge blast in southwest Russia stating that it was being used by Moscow to transport "military cargo". Kyiv on Monday (March 4) blew up the bridge in Russia's southwestern Samara region which is latest in the string of blasts targeting Russia's rail network which Ukraine says is used by Moscow to move troops and equipment for its invasion.

Ukraine claimed responsibility for the railway bridge blast in southwest Russia stating that it was being used by Moscow to transport "military cargo". Kyiv on Monday (March 4) blew up the bridge in Russia's southwestern Samara region which is latest in the string of blasts targeting Russia's rail network which Ukraine says is used by Moscow to move troops and equipment for its invasion. "A railway bridge over the Chapaevka River in Russia's Samara region was blown up. On 4 March 2024, at around 6:00 am (0200 GMT), the bridge was damaged by blowing up its support structures," Ukraine's military intelligence said. Russia was transporting ammunition from a plant in the town of Chapayevsk via the railway line, it said. "Given the nature of the damage to the railway bridge, its use will not be possible for a long time," it added. Earlier, Russia's railway operator announced that "an intervention by non-authorised persons" had caused the explosion, however, it said that no one was injured. "Rail traffic is suspended for the moment at this section," it said. "An explosive device damaged a pillar on a rail bridge" over the Chapaevka river, Russia's official TASS agency quoted a source in the rescue services as saying. Also read: Ukraine war: Germany alleges Putin seeking to 'destabilise' country through wiretap Russian drone strike kills 10 in Ukrainian city of Odesa Russian drone strike on an apartment block in the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa killed at least 10 people. The deceased victims also included a four-month-old baby and a two-year-old, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Sunday was declared a day of mourning in Odesa. “Today, Odesa and the region are mourning the victims of the Russian attack,” said the Ukrainian regional official. He added, “It is a great pain not only for the Odesa region, but for the whole of Ukraine.” Zelensky calls for Western air defence systems Zelensky, on Saturday, urged Western countries to rapidly deliver more air-defence systems following a barrage of Russian strikes in recent days. Overnight attacks, between Friday and Saturday, on frontline regions of Kharkiv in the northeast and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south killed another three people, reported AFP citing Ukrainian officials. “We need more air defences from our partners. We need to strengthen the Ukrainian air shield to add more protection for our people from Russian terror,” said the Ukrainian president, in a post on social media. He added, “More air-defence systems and more missiles for air-defence systems save lives.” (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukraine claims responsibility for railway bridge blast in southwest Russia

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Recent threats from the US to impose sanctions on financial institutions conducting business with Russia have reverberated through Turkish-Russian trade, causing disruptions and delays in payments for imported oil and Turkish exports, exclusive insights obtained by Reuters indicate.<o:p></o:p>

This is based on a Reuters report.<o:p></o:p>

The US executive order, issued in December, has cast a shadow over energy transactions between Turkey and Russia, complicating payments for Russian crude oil and hampering the smooth flow of Turkish exports, according to sources cited in the report.<o:p></o:p>

These sanctions, while targeting Russia's revenue streams, have inadvertently affected the intricate web of financial transactions between the two nations, with Turkish banks tightening compliance measures with Russian clients.<o:p></o:p>

Turkish banks, under increasing scrutiny due to the threat of sanctions, have adopted a cautious approach, leading to delays in payments to Russian oil exporters, causing disruptions in the energy supply chain.<o:p></o:p>

Sources reveal that payments have been stalled for weeks, highlighting the growing complexity of conducting financial transactions amid geopolitical tensions.<o:p></o:p>

Despite Ankara's opposition to Western sanctions on Moscow, Turkish banks have been compelled to review their dealings with Russian clients, underlining the precarious balance Turkey seeks to maintain in its diplomatic relations.<o:p></o:p>

The Turkish Treasury and banking watchdog have refrained from commenting on the issue, while Washington continues to exert pressure on Turkish institutions to comply with sanctions.<o:p></o:p>

Russian and Turkish officials have acknowledged the challenges posed by the sanctions, with the Kremlin expressing awareness of the tightening regulations imposed by Turkish banks.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, a senior US State Department official spoke on the importance of foreign financial institutions adhering to sanctions and reiterated ongoing discussions with Turkish counterparts.<o:p></o:p>

Preliminary trade data reveals a significant decline in Turkish exports to Russia, signalling the initial impact of the sanctions on bilateral trade.<o:p></o:p>

Machinery exports have been particularly affected, raising concerns about the broader implications for non-oil trade.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

Recent threats from the US to impose sanctions on financial institutions conducting business with Russia have reverberated through Turkish-Russian trade, causing disruptions and delays in payments for imported oil and Turkish exports, exclusive insights obtained by Reuters indicate.

Recent threats from the US to impose sanctions on financial institutions conducting business with Russia have reverberated through Turkish-Russian trade, causing disruptions and delays in payments for imported oil and Turkish exports, exclusive insights obtained by Reuters indicate. This is based on a Reuters report. The US executive order, issued in December, has cast a shadow over energy transactions between Turkey and Russia, complicating payments for Russian crude oil and hampering the smooth flow of Turkish exports, according to sources cited in the report. These sanctions, while targeting Russia's revenue streams, have inadvertently affected the intricate web of financial transactions between the two nations, with Turkish banks tightening compliance measures with Russian clients. Turkish banks, under increasing scrutiny due to the threat of sanctions, have adopted a cautious approach, leading to delays in payments to Russian oil exporters, causing disruptions in the energy supply chain. Sources reveal that payments have been stalled for weeks, highlighting the growing complexity of conducting financial transactions amid geopolitical tensions. Despite Ankara's opposition to Western sanctions on Moscow, Turkish banks have been compelled to review their dealings with Russian clients, underlining the precarious balance Turkey seeks to maintain in its diplomatic relations. The Turkish Treasury and banking watchdog have refrained from commenting on the issue, while Washington continues to exert pressure on Turkish institutions to comply with sanctions. Russian and Turkish officials have acknowledged the challenges posed by the sanctions, with the Kremlin expressing awareness of the tightening regulations imposed by Turkish banks. Meanwhile, a senior US State Department official spoke on the importance of foreign financial institutions adhering to sanctions and reiterated ongoing discussions with Turkish counterparts. Preliminary trade data reveals a significant decline in Turkish exports to Russia, signalling the initial impact of the sanctions on bilateral trade. Machinery exports have been particularly affected, raising concerns about the broader implications for non-oil trade. (With inputs from Reuters)

Turkey-Russia trade suffers as US sanctions loom, insights reveal

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