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

Right before the commencement of the Australian Open, the likes of Rafael Nadal, Coco Gauff and Carlos Alcaraz will feature in a charity match in order to raise funds for crisis-hit Ukraine following the Russian invasion. The charity match will take place on January 11&nbsp;at the Rod Laver Arena. Apart from Nadal, Gauff and Alcaraz, the likes of&nbsp;Alexander Zverev, Frances Tiafoe, Maria Sakkari and Alex de Minaur will also be seen for the match.&nbsp;It is to be noted that the money raised will be donated to UNICEF Australia and Global Giving, who are closely working for improving the situation in Ukraine after the Russian attack.

"Tennis is a truly global sport with an international playing community that has a history of stepping up and helping out. Through Tennis Plays for Peace, the tennis community can offer practical assistance through fundraising, as well as show our heartfelt support for the victims of the war," Craig Tiley, the Australian Open Tournament Director, was quoted as saying.&nbsp;"We look forward to a spectacular night of tennis and entertainment and a wonderful opportunity to come together and raise much-needed funds," he added.

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It is expected that more players will join for the tournament and an announcement will follow suit&nbsp;as the United Cup and Adelaide International are currently underway in Australia. The tickets for the charity matches are already up for grabs. It is priced at 25 dollars for adults and 5 dollars&nbsp;for children. The tournament, which is backed by the ITF, ATP and the WTA, will see many big players compete and gear up for the 2023 season-opener, i.e. the Australian Open.&nbsp;

With the likes of Nadal, Alcaraz and others being part of the Tennis Plays for Peace&nbsp;charity match, it will attract a lot of eyeballs among tennis fans. Thus, a huge sum is expected to be drawn from it.

Right before the commencement of the Australian Open, the likes of Rafael Nadal, Coco Gauff and Carlos Alcaraz will feature in a charity match in order to raise funds for crisis-hit Ukraine following the Russian invasion.

Right before the commencement of the Australian Open, the likes of Rafael Nadal, Coco Gauff and Carlos Alcaraz will feature in a charity match in order to raise funds for crisis-hit Ukraine following the Russian invasion. The charity match will take place on January 11 at the Rod Laver Arena. Apart from Nadal, Gauff and Alcaraz, the likes of Alexander Zverev, Frances Tiafoe, Maria Sakkari and Alex de Minaur will also be seen for the match. It is to be noted that the money raised will be donated to UNICEF Australia and Global Giving, who are closely working for improving the situation in Ukraine after the Russian attack. "Tennis is a truly global sport with an international playing community that has a history of stepping up and helping out. Through Tennis Plays for Peace, the tennis community can offer practical assistance through fundraising, as well as show our heartfelt support for the victims of the war," Craig Tiley, the Australian Open Tournament Director, was quoted as saying. "We look forward to a spectacular night of tennis and entertainment and a wonderful opportunity to come together and raise much-needed funds," he added. Also read: Martina Navratilova: A look at the tennis legend's records as she fights another battle It is expected that more players will join for the tournament and an announcement will follow suit as the United Cup and Adelaide International are currently underway in Australia. The tickets for the charity matches are already up for grabs. It is priced at 25 dollars for adults and 5 dollars for children. The tournament, which is backed by the ITF, ATP and the WTA, will see many big players compete and gear up for the 2023 season-opener, i.e. the Australian Open. With the likes of Nadal, Alcaraz and others being part of the Tennis Plays for Peace charity match, it will attract a lot of eyeballs among tennis fans. Thus, a huge sum is expected to be drawn from it.

Rafael Nadal, Coco Gauff, Carlos Alcaraz to play in charity match to raise funds for crisis-hit Ukraine

The rouble dived around 3% against the dollar on Tuesday as market comes to terms with the prospect of lower export revenue in the wake of restrictions on Russian oil.

World Business Watch: Russian rouble slumps around 3% vs dollar as sanctions weigh

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

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday that the country's air defence systems had shot down 13 Iranian-made kamikaze drones that targeted the capital Kyiv earlier in the day.

Ukraine shot down 13 kamikaze drones in Kyiv attack: Zelensky

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'

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

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

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

The Ukrainian government made it clear on Tuesday once again that it will not negotiate with Kremlin until the Russian military has left Ukrainian territory including Crimea. President Volodymyr Zelensky added that Ukraine will continue its fight even if it is "stabbed in the back by its allies”.&nbsp;

"Once again - the restoration of territorial integrity, respect for the U.N. Charter, compensation for all damages caused by the war, punishment of every war criminal, and guarantees that this will not happen again. These are completely understandable conditions," Zelensky said in his address.&nbsp;

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There have been certain reports which claimed that Ukraine can take a softer stance when it comes to negotiations with Russia after a prolonged discussion with the United States. The reports also suggested that it can be the result of doubts regarding US support for Ukraine after the mid-term elections.&nbsp;

According to Reuters, Zelensky’s comments were made in relation to the reports and he went on to say that "we always received insane Russian responses with new terrorist attacks, shelling or blackmail".&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;War in Ukraine | Zelensky: Hundreds of Russians killed daily near Donetsk

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/war-in-ukraine-zelensky-hundreds-of-russians-killed-daily-near-donetsk-532265/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Ukraine has hardened its stance even more since the annexation of four regions - Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson – following referendums that were considered to be “sham” by western countries. Zelensky adviser Mykhailo Podolyak supported the stance as he told Italy's La Repubblica newspaper that "negotiating with Putin would mean giving up, and we would never give him this gift".&nbsp;

In the past few months, Ukraine has made a steady comeback in various regions as resistance forces have successfully recaptured some parts. The conflict has intensified considerably in Kherson where Russia has already ordered evacuations as missile strikes have gone up in key areas.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The Ukrainian government made it clear on Tuesday once again that it will not negotiate with Kremlin until the Russian military has left Ukrainian territory including Crimea.

The Ukrainian government made it clear on Tuesday once again that it will not negotiate with Kremlin until the Russian military has left Ukrainian territory including Crimea. President Volodymyr Zelensky added that Ukraine will continue its fight even if it is "stabbed in the back by its allies”. "Once again - the restoration of territorial integrity, respect for the U.N. Charter, compensation for all damages caused by the war, punishment of every war criminal, and guarantees that this will not happen again. These are completely understandable conditions," Zelensky said in his address. Also read | Iran protests: After lawmakers' appeal, Iran judiciary speaks tough There have been certain reports which claimed that Ukraine can take a softer stance when it comes to negotiations with Russia after a prolonged discussion with the United States. The reports also suggested that it can be the result of doubts regarding US support for Ukraine after the mid-term elections. According to Reuters, Zelensky’s comments were made in relation to the reports and he went on to say that "we always received insane Russian responses with new terrorist attacks, shelling or blackmail". WATCH | War in Ukraine | Zelensky: Hundreds of Russians killed daily near Donetsk Ukraine has hardened its stance even more since the annexation of four regions - Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson – following referendums that were considered to be “sham” by western countries. Zelensky adviser Mykhailo Podolyak supported the stance as he told Italy's La Repubblica newspaper that "negotiating with Putin would mean giving up, and we would never give him this gift". In the past few months, Ukraine has made a steady comeback in various regions as resistance forces have successfully recaptured some parts. The conflict has intensified considerably in Kherson where Russia has already ordered evacuations as missile strikes have gone up in key areas.

Ukraine refuses to negotiate with Russia before complete evacuation of forces

The Ukrainian capital of Kyiv was rocked by a series of blasts on Monday resulting in widespread blackouts. Witnesses in Kyiv told Reuters that the city was attacked with “5-7 missile strikes” amid similar reports from places in northern, eastern and central parts of the country.

In the past few weeks, the Russian forces have increased the intensity of their attacks. Missile attacks have become quite common, and they have been targeting various parts of Ukraine after the defence ministry blamed the resistance forces for causing damage to a key bridge in Crimea.

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According to witness accounts reported by AFP, smoke could be seen rising from various affected buildings in the country’s capital and it resulted in blackouts across Kyiv. The mayor Vitali Klitschko posted on Telegram that the blasts “knocked out electricity and water in parts of Kyiv”.

"An area of Kyiv is without electricity and certain areas without water following Russian strikes."

The tensions between the two countries were stoked once again after Ukraine was blamed of conducting a drone strike on the Russian fleet on the Black Sea. The defence ministry spokesperson criticised Ukraine for the attacks and even shared videos documenting the attacks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-black-sea-fleet-was-damaged-by-ukrainian-drone-attacks-in-crimea-report-529799" hreflang="en">Russia’s Black Sea Fleet was damaged by Ukrainian drone attacks in Crimea: Report</a>

Blasts were also reported in Kharkiv, Cherkasy and Zaporizhzhia. Ihor Terekhov posted on Telegram that two missiles targeted "a critical infrastructure facility" in the city of Kharkiv.

"Russian losers continue waging war on civilian facilities," Andriy Yermak, President Volodymyr Zelensky's chief of staff, wrote in messaging app Telegram just hours after the missile attacks.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The Ukrainian capital of Kyiv was rocked by a series of blasts on Monday resulting in widespread blackouts. Witnesses in Kyiv told Reuters that the city was attacked with “5-7 missile strikes” amid similar reports from places in northern, eastern and central parts of the country.

The Ukrainian capital of Kyiv was rocked by a series of blasts on Monday resulting in widespread blackouts. Witnesses in Kyiv told Reuters that the city was attacked with “5-7 missile strikes” amid similar reports from places in northern, eastern and central parts of the country. In the past few weeks, the Russian forces have increased the intensity of their attacks. Missile attacks have become quite common, and they have been targeting various parts of Ukraine after the defence ministry blamed the resistance forces for causing damage to a key bridge in Crimea. Also read | Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva: The new president of Brazil with a chequered past According to witness accounts reported by AFP, smoke could be seen rising from various affected buildings in the country’s capital and it resulted in blackouts across Kyiv. The mayor Vitali Klitschko posted on Telegram that the blasts “knocked out electricity and water in parts of Kyiv”. "An area of Kyiv is without electricity and certain areas without water following Russian strikes." The tensions between the two countries were stoked once again after Ukraine was blamed of conducting a drone strike on the Russian fleet on the Black Sea. The defence ministry spokesperson criticised Ukraine for the attacks and even shared videos documenting the attacks. Also read | Russia’s Black Sea Fleet was damaged by Ukrainian drone attacks in Crimea: Report Blasts were also reported in Kharkiv, Cherkasy and Zaporizhzhia. Ihor Terekhov posted on Telegram that two missiles targeted "a critical infrastructure facility" in the city of Kharkiv. "Russian losers continue waging war on civilian facilities," Andriy Yermak, President Volodymyr Zelensky's chief of staff, wrote in messaging app Telegram just hours after the missile attacks.

'Massive attack': Ukraine says targeted by 'more than 50 missiles' from Russia

Ukraine continued their resurgence in the ongoing conflict with Russia as the resistance forces were able to recapture a village near the city of Lysychansk. The region of Luhansk has been under Russian control since early days of the invasion, but this was a significant victory for the Ukrainian military.

Luhansk’s governor, Serhiy Haidai, took to Telegram to say that the Ukrainian military were in complete control of Bilohorivka, a suburban area around 88 kilometers from Lysychansk.

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&nbsp;“It’s a suburb of Lysychansk. Soon we will drive these scumbags out of there with a broom,” he said. “Step by step, centimetre by centimetre, we will liberate our entire land from the invaders.”

The Russian forces were in control of the region since July when Ukraine decided to retreat from the cities of Sievierdonetsk and Lysychansk. However, the counteroffensive by the Ukrainian military in the last few weeks allowed them to recapture a part of the region after the success in Kharkiv.

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According to Reuters, the next target for the Ukrainian military will be to recapture the city of Lysychansk. The Donbas region – comprising of Donetsk and Luhansk – currently have Russia-backed local governments but it seems that Kremlin will not be able to hold on to their position for long.

There was more good news for Ukraine as the state nuclear company – Energoatom – said on Monday that the recent shelling from the Russian military in the southern Mykolaiv region did not cause any damage to the nearby nuclear plant as all three reacts were working properly.

“Fortunately, there were no casualties among the station staff,” the company&nbsp;told Reuters.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Ukraine continued their resurgence in the ongoing conflict with Russia as the resistance forces were able to recapture a village near the city of Lysychansk. The region of Luhansk has been under Russian control since early days of the invasion, but this was a significant victory for the Ukrainian military.

Ukraine continued their resurgence in the ongoing conflict with Russia as the resistance forces were able to recapture a village near the city of Lysychansk. The region of Luhansk has been under Russian control since early days of the invasion, but this was a significant victory for the Ukrainian military. Luhansk’s governor, Serhiy Haidai, took to Telegram to say that the Ukrainian military were in complete control of Bilohorivka, a suburban area around 88 kilometers from Lysychansk. Also read | Ukraine war: US says Russian military company Wagner trying to recruit felons “It’s a suburb of Lysychansk. Soon we will drive these scumbags out of there with a broom,” he said. “Step by step, centimetre by centimetre, we will liberate our entire land from the invaders.” The Russian forces were in control of the region since July when Ukraine decided to retreat from the cities of Sievierdonetsk and Lysychansk. However, the counteroffensive by the Ukrainian military in the last few weeks allowed them to recapture a part of the region after the success in Kharkiv. Also read | 'It seems like a curse': Powerful quake hits Mexico on same day for third time According to Reuters, the next target for the Ukrainian military will be to recapture the city of Lysychansk. The Donbas region – comprising of Donetsk and Luhansk – currently have Russia-backed local governments but it seems that Kremlin will not be able to hold on to their position for long. There was more good news for Ukraine as the state nuclear company – Energoatom – said on Monday that the recent shelling from the Russian military in the southern Mykolaiv region did not cause any damage to the nearby nuclear plant as all three reacts were working properly. “Fortunately, there were no casualties among the station staff,” the company told Reuters.

Ukrainian forces recapture village in Luhansk region as Russia loses control

Amid the ongoing war, Ukraine and Russia are set to sign a deal on Friday (July 22) aimed at reviving the blocked Black Sea grain exports. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has led to a massive global food crisis.&nbsp;

The war is driving prices of fertilizer, fuel and food up and experts claim&nbsp;that millions of people worldwide are at risk of being driven to starvation. Urgent action is needed.&nbsp;

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan’s office said on Thursday that Ukraine, Russia, Turkey and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will sign a deal to resume grain exports.&nbsp;

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Erdogan’s spokesman Ibrahim Kalin tweeted: “The grain export agreement, critically important for global food security, will be signed in Istanbul (Friday) under the auspices of President (Recep Tayyip) Erdogan and UN Secretary-General M. Guterres together with Ukrainian and Russian delegations.”&nbsp;

Both Russia and Ukraine&nbsp;are key exporters of wheat and rice and&nbsp;up to 25 million tonnes of wheat and other grains have been blocked in Ukrainian ports.&nbsp;

There was no immediate confirmation from Moscow.&nbsp;

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But in a late-night video address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hinted that his country’s Black Sea ports could soon be unblocked.

Zelensky&nbsp;said: “And tomorrow we also expect news for our state from Turkey — regarding the unblocking of our ports.”&nbsp;

Yesterday,&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin met his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Tehran.

Putin thanked Erdogan for mediating talks on the export of grain from Ukraine. He said that there was some progress.&nbsp;

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Amid the ongoing war, Ukraine and Russia are set to sign a deal on Friday (July 22) aimed at reviving the blocked Black Sea grain exports. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has led to a massive global food crisis.

Amid the ongoing war, Ukraine and Russia are set to sign a deal on Friday (July 22) aimed at reviving the blocked Black Sea grain exports. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has led to a massive global food crisis. The war is driving prices of fertilizer, fuel and food up and experts claim that millions of people worldwide are at risk of being driven to starvation. Urgent action is needed. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan’s office said on Thursday that Ukraine, Russia, Turkey and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will sign a deal to resume grain exports. ALSO READ | Kremlin to hold referendums in captured Ukrainian territories to join Russia Erdogan’s spokesman Ibrahim Kalin tweeted: “The grain export agreement, critically important for global food security, will be signed in Istanbul (Friday) under the auspices of President (Recep Tayyip) Erdogan and UN Secretary-General M. Guterres together with Ukrainian and Russian delegations.” Both Russia and Ukraine are key exporters of wheat and rice and up to 25 million tonnes of wheat and other grains have been blocked in Ukrainian ports. There was no immediate confirmation from Moscow. ALSO READ | Heatflation: How hot temperatures increase the cost of food But in a late-night video address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hinted that his country’s Black Sea ports could soon be unblocked. Zelensky said: “And tomorrow we also expect news for our state from Turkey — regarding the unblocking of our ports.” Yesterday, Russian President Vladimir Putin met his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Tehran. Putin thanked Erdogan for mediating talks on the export of grain from Ukraine. He said that there was some progress. 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.

Ukraine and Russia to sign grain deal resuming Black Sea exports

The chief executive of Ukraine's cricket board says it "ticks all the boxes" to become an associate member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) and that the game would not survive if it was denied entry. Ukraine is expected to get second-tier membership at the governing body`s board meeting this month, entitling the war-torn country to Twenty20 International status and funds from the ICC, which has earmarked $30.8 million for its 96 associate members this year.

The Ukraine Cricket Federation (UCF) has been organising cricket for the last two decades and has a pool of 15,000 students, most of them Indian, at the senior level. Its chief executive Kobus Olivier told Reuters it met all the ICC requirements before Russia invaded.

"We ticked all the boxes on Feb. 24 when the war started," he said. "I have so much belief in this process ... and I am absolutely confident Ukraine will be an associate member of the ICC." Olivier, a South African, said the ICC should take note of how the EU "fast-tracked" Ukraine`s candidate status to join the bloc, saying it set a "very good precedent".

UCF President Hardeep Singh has made arrangements for national team players to train in India while Olivier set up base in Zagreb after fleeing Kyiv. He is effectively running the UCF`s junior and women cricket programmes from Zagreb and engaging refugees, mostly mothers and children, in cricket-in-the-park sessions three days a week.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bharat-armys-epic-response-wins-the-internet-after-barmy-army-claims-virat-kohli-was-dropped-for-1st-odi-496906">Bharat Army's epic response wins the internet after Barmy Army claims Virat Kohli was dropped for 1st ODI</a>

"These refugee mothers are actually going to make the Ukrainian national team in a couple of years," said Olivier, whose own escape from Kyiv, along with his four pet dogs, is the subject of a documentary. 
Olivier is also planning to host a `Ukrainian Freedom Cup` in Zagreb next month with teams from Serbia, Slovenia, Hungary and Czech Republic. If the ICC rejects its membership application the consequences for the game in Ukraine would be dire, Olivier said.

"It will be the end of cricket in Ukraine," he said. The Lord`s Taverners, a British charity, and the MCC Foundation, the charity arm of cricket`s lawmakers, have given support to the UCF but sponsorship funds have dried up.

ICC membership would make the UCF eligible for government funding and could attract new sponsors. 
"It will be a snowball effect," said Olivier.

The chief executive of Ukraine's cricket board says it "ticks all the boxes" to become an associate member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) and that the game would not survive if it was denied entry.

The chief executive of Ukraine's cricket board says it "ticks all the boxes" to become an associate member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) and that the game would not survive if it was denied entry. Ukraine is expected to get second-tier membership at the governing body`s board meeting this month, entitling the war-torn country to Twenty20 International status and funds from the ICC, which has earmarked $30.8 million for its 96 associate members this year. The Ukraine Cricket Federation (UCF) has been organising cricket for the last two decades and has a pool of 15,000 students, most of them Indian, at the senior level. Its chief executive Kobus Olivier told Reuters it met all the ICC requirements before Russia invaded. "We ticked all the boxes on Feb. 24 when the war started," he said. "I have so much belief in this process ... and I am absolutely confident Ukraine will be an associate member of the ICC." Olivier, a South African, said the ICC should take note of how the EU "fast-tracked" Ukraine`s candidate status to join the bloc, saying it set a "very good precedent". UCF President Hardeep Singh has made arrangements for national team players to train in India while Olivier set up base in Zagreb after fleeing Kyiv. He is effectively running the UCF`s junior and women cricket programmes from Zagreb and engaging refugees, mostly mothers and children, in cricket-in-the-park sessions three days a week. ALSO READ | Bharat Army's epic response wins the internet after Barmy Army claims Virat Kohli was dropped for 1st ODI "These refugee mothers are actually going to make the Ukrainian national team in a couple of years," said Olivier, whose own escape from Kyiv, along with his four pet dogs, is the subject of a documentary. Olivier is also planning to host a `Ukrainian Freedom Cup` in Zagreb next month with teams from Serbia, Slovenia, Hungary and Czech Republic. If the ICC rejects its membership application the consequences for the game in Ukraine would be dire, Olivier said. "It will be the end of cricket in Ukraine," he said. The Lord`s Taverners, a British charity, and the MCC Foundation, the charity arm of cricket`s lawmakers, have given support to the UCF but sponsorship funds have dried up. ICC membership would make the UCF eligible for government funding and could attract new sponsors. "It will be a snowball effect," said Olivier.

Cricket: Ukraine hopeful of ICC membership for game to survive in war-torn country

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict has already been going on for more than 100 days and with both sides engaged in intense warfare, no end seems to be in sight. However, Ukraine’s defence minister Oleksiy Reznikov believes that it is “possible” that the war with Russia will be over by the end of 2022. During his address at an international security forum, Reznikov said that it is possible that the war can get over in less than a year considering the amount of support Ukraine receives from the rest of the world. He also sounded a dire warning for other countries if Russia is not stopped.

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"Russia continues to make efforts to occupy our entire state. It is currently impossible to predict when the war will end, but my optimistic predictions are that it will be possible to do it this year," he said in his address according to a report on Sky News.

"Next will be Poland, the Baltic countries, Slovakia, and others. That is why we must stop Russia and restrain (them) in the future," he added while speaking about the dangers of the ongoing war.

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The southeastern areas of Donetsk and Luhansk continue to the focus of the Russian military as Ukraine announced that they have successfully recaptured some parts of Severodonetsk.

Serhiy Haidai, governor of Luhansk province, said on Saturday that 30 per cent of the city was already under Ukraine’s control and thanks to the latest counter-attack against the Russian forces, they have now recaptured another 20 per cent.

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict has already been going on for more than 100 days and with both sides engaged in intense warfare, no end seems to be in sight.

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict has already been going on for more than 100 days and with both sides engaged in intense warfare, no end seems to be in sight. However, Ukraine’s defence minister Oleksiy Reznikov believes that it is “possible” that the war with Russia will be over by the end of 2022. During his address at an international security forum, Reznikov said that it is possible that the war can get over in less than a year considering the amount of support Ukraine receives from the rest of the world. He also sounded a dire warning for other countries if Russia is not stopped. Also read | North Korea test-fires ballistic missile after US, South Korea stage drills "Russia continues to make efforts to occupy our entire state. It is currently impossible to predict when the war will end, but my optimistic predictions are that it will be possible to do it this year," he said in his address according to a report on Sky News. "Next will be Poland, the Baltic countries, Slovakia, and others. That is why we must stop Russia and restrain (them) in the future," he added while speaking about the dangers of the ongoing war. Also read | Bidens evacuated from beach house after plane violates airspace The southeastern areas of Donetsk and Luhansk continue to the focus of the Russian military as Ukraine announced that they have successfully recaptured some parts of Severodonetsk. Serhiy Haidai, governor of Luhansk province, said on Saturday that 30 per cent of the city was already under Ukraine’s control and thanks to the latest counter-attack against the Russian forces, they have now recaptured another 20 per cent.

Ukraine's defence minister 'optimistic' that war with Russia could end this year

The United States and a number of western countries have been sending considerable number of arms and ammunitions to the Ukraine in order to help them combat the Russian invasion.

Germany will become the latest European power to send ‘heavy weapons and complex systems’ to Ukraine after the country’s lawmakers voted in favour of aiding Ukraine with ammunition.

The petition, which went on vote in the lower house of the German parliament – The Bundestag, was passed with 586 votes in favour, 100 against and seven individuals abstaining from the vote.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-russian-tv-hosts-comforts-viewers-on-nuke-attack-says-we-all-die-someday-474591" hreflang="en">Russian TV host comforts viewers on nuke attack, says ‘we all die someday'</a>

In addition to the supply of arms to Ukraine, it was also decided that Germany will be sending more troops in order to boost the NATO forces in eastern Europe. The petition also specified that armoured vehicles and anti-aircraft systems will comprise most of the arms sent to Ukraine.

While there was an overwhelming support in favour of sending the weapons to bolster the war effort in Ukraine, some were worried that the move make look like a declaration of war. The far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD) were completely opposed to the move and according to Deutsche Welle, their senior lawmaker said that it will end up prolonging the war in Ukraine.

The socialist Left Party of Germany also took a similar tone in the issue and warned the country’s chancellor Olaf Scholz that this move can increase the changes of a potential nuclear war.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-response-to-outside-intervention-will-be-lightning-fast-putin-on-ukraine-war-474481" hreflang="en">Russia's response to outside intervention will be lightning fast: Putin on Ukraine war</a>

However, the ruling SPD party defended the decision and said that this is a decision taken for the betterment of the world and this can actually help in shortening the ongoing war.

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The United States and a number of western countries have been sending considerable number of arms and ammunitions to the Ukraine in order to help them combat the Russian invasion.

The United States and a number of western countries have been sending considerable number of arms and ammunitions to the Ukraine in order to help them combat the Russian invasion. Germany will become the latest European power to send ‘heavy weapons and complex systems’ to Ukraine after the country’s lawmakers voted in favour of aiding Ukraine with ammunition. The petition, which went on vote in the lower house of the German parliament – The Bundestag, was passed with 586 votes in favour, 100 against and seven individuals abstaining from the vote. Also read | Russian TV host comforts viewers on nuke attack, says ‘we all die someday' In addition to the supply of arms to Ukraine, it was also decided that Germany will be sending more troops in order to boost the NATO forces in eastern Europe. The petition also specified that armoured vehicles and anti-aircraft systems will comprise most of the arms sent to Ukraine. While there was an overwhelming support in favour of sending the weapons to bolster the war effort in Ukraine, some were worried that the move make look like a declaration of war. The far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD) were completely opposed to the move and according to Deutsche Welle, their senior lawmaker said that it will end up prolonging the war in Ukraine. The socialist Left Party of Germany also took a similar tone in the issue and warned the country’s chancellor Olaf Scholz that this move can increase the changes of a potential nuclear war. Also read | Russia's response to outside intervention will be lightning fast: Putin on Ukraine war However, the ruling SPD party defended the decision and said that this is a decision taken for the betterment of the world and this can actually help in shortening the ongoing war. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Germany votes overwhelmingly in favour of supplying heavy weapons to Ukraine amid ongoing conflict

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.

Amid controversy over weapons delivery to Ukraine, newswire AFP reported that the German government will deliver tanks to Ukraine.

The development comes as countries meet in Ramstein airbase in southwestern Germany to discuss arms delivery to Ukraine. President Zelensky has been pleading for more offensive weapons to take on the Russian forces.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin who had visited Kyiv over the weekend had said Ukraine "can win if they have the right equipment" and "right support".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russia-moskva-missile-cruiser-sinks-one-dies-and-27-missing-473147">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Moskva warship saga: Russia's view and Ukraine's missile theory</a>

Reports claim there is pressure on Social Democratic Party (SPD) to dismiss German ex-Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder from the party&nbsp;over his apparent ties with Russia.

Watch: Russia announces ceasefire around Mariupol's Azovstal steel plant

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Schroeder is reportedly on the shareholders' committee of Nord Stream AG the controversial gas pipeline project which has been discontinued after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February.

Russia meanwhile had said on Monday that it had expelled 40 German diplomats after the German government expelled Russian diplomats over the Ukraine war.

Russia said it had made a "strong protest" to the German diplomatic mission in Moscow over the "unfriendly decision" of the German government.

The German government retorted saying Russia's decision was "in no way justified".

(With inputs from Agencies)

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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. Amid controversy over weapons delivery to Ukraine, newswire AFP reported that the German government will deliver tanks to Ukraine. The development comes as countries meet in Ramstein airbase in southwestern Germany to discuss arms delivery to Ukraine. President Zelensky has been pleading for more offensive weapons to take on the Russian forces. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin who had visited Kyiv over the weekend had said Ukraine "can win if they have the right equipment" and "right support". Also Read in Pics: Moskva warship saga: Russia's view and Ukraine's missile theory Reports claim there is pressure on Social Democratic Party (SPD) to dismiss German ex-Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder from the party over his apparent ties with Russia. Watch: Russia announces ceasefire around Mariupol's Azovstal steel plant Schroeder is reportedly on the shareholders' committee of Nord Stream AG the controversial gas pipeline project which has been discontinued after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February. Russia meanwhile had said on Monday that it had expelled 40 German diplomats after the German government expelled Russian diplomats over the Ukraine war. Russia said it had made a "strong protest" to the German diplomatic mission in Moscow over the "unfriendly decision" of the German government. The German government retorted saying Russia's decision was "in no way justified". (With inputs from Agencies) Watch WION LIVE Here

Germany may deliver tanks to Ukraine: Report

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