Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday called on its people to “fight for country” as Russia launched wide-ranging attacks targeting multiple cities.

In a televised address to the nation, Zelenskyy termed the attack an “invasion” and asked people to support the military in repelling attacks against the Russian forces.

“Today, Russia started an invasion of Ukraine. Putin started a war against Ukraine, against the whole democratic world. He wants to destroy my country. He wants to destroy our country, everything we have been building, what we live for. I address all Ukrainians and primarily Ukrainian servicemen who have already taken the first enemy’s strike and are repelling it with dignity,” he said.

Zelensky, 44, appealed to the people with military experience to make themselves available.

“We are aware of Ukrainian armed forces' strength. You are courageous, you are unbroken, you are Ukrainians. I address every Ukrainian who is now staying on Ukrainian land. Let’s not panic. Let’s do everything that is needed to support armed forces of Ukraine. I address all Ukrainians who are currently abroad. We need your support too. You are a powerful force. You are a united force and you proved it many times before. We need you now very much,” the president said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50-russian-occupiers-killed-we-have-losses-says-ukraine-as-casualties-rise-455989">'50 Russian occupiers killed': We have losses, says Ukraine as casualties rise</a>

The president said that he has talked to the world leaders and is international rallying support for Ukraine.

“I talked to (Joe) Biden, (Boris) Johnson, Charles Michel, (Andrzej) Duda, (Gitanas) Nauseda. We start to create anti-Putin coalition. I have already called on world leaders to impose all possible sanctions against Putin, start full-scale defence support, close air space over Ukraine for aggressor. Together, we must save Ukraine, save democratic world. We will do it. Glory to Ukraine,” he said.

Zelensky also announced that Ukraine has cut its diplomatic ties with Russia, adding that “it won’t give up its freedom no matter what Moscow thinks.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-army-airbases-rendered-out-of-action-says-russia-455933">Ukraine's army airbases rendered out of action, says Russia</a>

"We have severed diplomatic relations with Russia. For all those who have not yet lost their conscience in Russia, it is time to go out and protest against the war with Ukraine," he said.

Meanwhile, Ukraine has declared martial law in the view of Russia targeting its military infrastructure.

US President Joe Biden pledged new sanctions to punish Russia for the aggression that the international community had expected for weeks but could not prevent through diplomacy.

Putin justified it all in a televised address, asserting that the attack was needed to protect civilians in eastern Ukraine “a false claim the US had predicted he would make as a pretext for an invasion”.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine's envoy to India addresses the media about ongoing Russian invasion

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&gt;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday called on its people to “fight for country” as Russia launched wide-ranging attacks targeting multiple cities. In a televised address to the nation, Zelenskyy termed the attack an “invasion” and asked people to support the military in repelling attacks against the Russian forces.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday called on its people to “fight for country” as Russia launched wide-ranging attacks targeting multiple cities. In a televised address to the nation, Zelenskyy termed the attack an “invasion” and asked people to support the military in repelling attacks against the Russian forces. “Today, Russia started an invasion of Ukraine. Putin started a war against Ukraine, against the whole democratic world. He wants to destroy my country. He wants to destroy our country, everything we have been building, what we live for. I address all Ukrainians and primarily Ukrainian servicemen who have already taken the first enemy’s strike and are repelling it with dignity,” he said. Zelensky, 44, appealed to the people with military experience to make themselves available. “We are aware of Ukrainian armed forces' strength. You are courageous, you are unbroken, you are Ukrainians. I address every Ukrainian who is now staying on Ukrainian land. Let’s not panic. Let’s do everything that is needed to support armed forces of Ukraine. I address all Ukrainians who are currently abroad. We need your support too. You are a powerful force. You are a united force and you proved it many times before. We need you now very much,” the president said. Also read | '50 Russian occupiers killed': We have losses, says Ukraine as casualties rise The president said that he has talked to the world leaders and is international rallying support for Ukraine. “I talked to (Joe) Biden, (Boris) Johnson, Charles Michel, (Andrzej) Duda, (Gitanas) Nauseda. We start to create anti-Putin coalition. I have already called on world leaders to impose all possible sanctions against Putin, start full-scale defence support, close air space over Ukraine for aggressor. Together, we must save Ukraine, save democratic world. We will do it. Glory to Ukraine,” he said. Zelensky also announced that Ukraine has cut its diplomatic ties with Russia, adding that “it won’t give up its freedom no matter what Moscow thinks.” Also read | Ukraine's army airbases rendered out of action, says Russia "We have severed diplomatic relations with Russia. For all those who have not yet lost their conscience in Russia, it is time to go out and protest against the war with Ukraine," he said. Meanwhile, Ukraine has declared martial law in the view of Russia targeting its military infrastructure. US President Joe Biden pledged new sanctions to punish Russia for the aggression that the international community had expected for weeks but could not prevent through diplomacy. Putin justified it all in a televised address, asserting that the attack was needed to protect civilians in eastern Ukraine “a false claim the US had predicted he would make as a pretext for an invasion”. Watch | Ukraine's envoy to India addresses the media about ongoing Russian invasion > (With inputs from agencies)

‘Won’t bow down’: Ukraine president vows to fight back against ‘aggressor’ Russia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Impact of Russia-Ukraine crisis on prices of commodities

The United States has credible information from intelligence sources that Russia is creating a hit list of “identified Ukrainians to be killed or sent to camps” in the event of an invasion, a top official told the United Nations.

In a letter to UN human rights chief, Michelle Bachelet, US ambassador to the UN, Bathsheba Crocker, has claimed that among the likely targets include Russian and Belarusian dissidents in exile in Ukraine, journalists, anti-corruption activists, and religious and ethnic minorities, reported AFP.

It warns that a Russian invasion of Ukraine would create a “human rights catastrophe” and that further abuses are being planned, which have previously included “targeted killings, kidnappings/forced disappearances, unjust detentions, and the use of torture”.

"We are deeply concerned about Russia's continuing human rights abuses in the parts of Ukraine it already occupies and have every reason to believe those concerns will multiply following a new military offensive," wrote Ambassador Crocker.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-family-guy-predict-vladimir-putins-ukraine-strategy-455350">Did Family Guy predict Vladimir Putin's Ukraine strategy?</a>

Citing the information, the US envoy said that Russian forces “will likely use lethal measures to disperse peaceful protests or otherwise counter peaceful exercises of perceived resistance from civilian populations.”

According to reports, the UN Office for the High Commissioner for Human Rights has acknowledged receiving the letter on Monday and is said to be reviewing it.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/donetsk-and-lugansk-ukraines-breakaway-republics-455307" hreflang="en">Donetsk and Lugansk: Ukraine's breakaway republics</a>

Meanwhile, hours after recognising Russian-controlled areas of southeast Ukraine— Donetsk and Luhansk —Russian leader Vladimir Putin deployed “peacekeepers” to eastern Ukraine.

Putin recognised the rebels despite the West repeatedly warning him not to and threatening Moscow with a massive sanctions response.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States has credible information from intelligence sources that Russia is creating a hit list of “identified Ukrainians to be killed or sent to camps” in the event of an invasion, a top official told the United Nations.

The United States has credible information from intelligence sources that Russia is creating a hit list of “identified Ukrainians to be killed or sent to camps” in the event of an invasion, a top official told the United Nations. In a letter to UN human rights chief, Michelle Bachelet, US ambassador to the UN, Bathsheba Crocker, has claimed that among the likely targets include Russian and Belarusian dissidents in exile in Ukraine, journalists, anti-corruption activists, and religious and ethnic minorities, reported AFP. It warns that a Russian invasion of Ukraine would create a “human rights catastrophe” and that further abuses are being planned, which have previously included “targeted killings, kidnappings/forced disappearances, unjust detentions, and the use of torture”. "We are deeply concerned about Russia's continuing human rights abuses in the parts of Ukraine it already occupies and have every reason to believe those concerns will multiply following a new military offensive," wrote Ambassador Crocker. Also read | Did Family Guy predict Vladimir Putin's Ukraine strategy? Citing the information, the US envoy said that Russian forces “will likely use lethal measures to disperse peaceful protests or otherwise counter peaceful exercises of perceived resistance from civilian populations.” According to reports, the UN Office for the High Commissioner for Human Rights has acknowledged receiving the letter on Monday and is said to be reviewing it. Also see | Donetsk and Lugansk: Ukraine's breakaway republics Meanwhile, hours after recognising Russian-controlled areas of southeast Ukraine— Donetsk and Luhansk —Russian leader Vladimir Putin deployed “peacekeepers” to eastern Ukraine. Putin recognised the rebels despite the West repeatedly warning him not to and threatening Moscow with a massive sanctions response. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia has ‘hit list’ of Ukrainians to be killed after invasion, claims US

As the Russia-Ukraine tensions arrive at its most critical juncture, netizens seemed to have dug out a scene from the hit show Family Guy from over 10 years ago claiming&nbsp;to have predicted Vladimir Putin's strategy in the Ukraine crisis.

With speculations rife over Russia invading Ukraine, a clip from Family Guy’s eighth episode “Spies Reminiscent of Us” that aired in 2009 has gone viral.

A sequence in the episode shows the Russian leader terrifying those around him by brandishing different weapons in an aggressive manner. But he then proceeds to use them as handy accessories, much to the relief of everyone.

At one stage, he gets out a machine gun, causing those around him to gasp in fright, before using it to light a cigarette.

“Gentlemen, let me put your mind at ease,” he tells characters including Stewie and Brian, adding: “I know why you are here, and I mean to help you.”

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Putin's Ukraine Strategy <a href="https://t.co/Uqd25hHRDc">pic.twitter.com/Uqd25hHRDc</a>
— Mohammed Soliman (@ThisIsSoliman) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsSoliman/status/1493931874825220098?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The clip was shared on Twitter with the caption, “Putin’s Ukraine Strategy,”&nbsp;which instantly went viral.

Days after announcing de-escalation near the Ukraine border, Russia ordered his military to enter the Russian-controlled areas of southeast Ukraine— Donetsk and Luhansk —following a decision to recognise the territories as independent states.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Tuesday accused Russia of disturbing the peace and violating the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Zelenskiy affirmed that Ukraine will not give up its land but is committed to a “peaceful and diplomatic path”.

The United States said it will impose new sanctions on Russia after&nbsp;announcing&nbsp;sanctions on two Russian-backed areas in eastern Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the Russia-Ukraine tensions arrive at its most critical juncture, netizens seemed to have dug out a scene from the hit show Family Guy from over 10 years ago claiming to have predicted Vladimir Putin's strategy in the Ukraine crisis.

As the Russia-Ukraine tensions arrive at its most critical juncture, netizens seemed to have dug out a scene from the hit show Family Guy from over 10 years ago claiming to have predicted Vladimir Putin's strategy in the Ukraine crisis. With speculations rife over Russia invading Ukraine, a clip from Family Guy’s eighth episode “Spies Reminiscent of Us” that aired in 2009 has gone viral. A sequence in the episode shows the Russian leader terrifying those around him by brandishing different weapons in an aggressive manner. But he then proceeds to use them as handy accessories, much to the relief of everyone. At one stage, he gets out a machine gun, causing those around him to gasp in fright, before using it to light a cigarette. “Gentlemen, let me put your mind at ease,” he tells characters including Stewie and Brian, adding: “I know why you are here, and I mean to help you.” Putin's Ukraine Strategy pic.twitter.com/Uqd25hHRDc — Mohammed Soliman (@ThisIsSoliman) February 16, 2022 × The clip was shared on Twitter with the caption, “Putin’s Ukraine Strategy,” which instantly went viral. Days after announcing de-escalation near the Ukraine border, Russia ordered his military to enter the Russian-controlled areas of southeast Ukraine— Donetsk and Luhansk —following a decision to recognise the territories as independent states. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Tuesday accused Russia of disturbing the peace and violating the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Zelenskiy affirmed that Ukraine will not give up its land but is committed to a “peaceful and diplomatic path”. The United States said it will impose new sanctions on Russia after announcing sanctions on two Russian-backed areas in eastern Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Did Family Guy predict Vladimir Putin's Ukraine strategy?

Russia on Saturday launched its “planned” nuclear drills hours after the US said that the Russian troops manned near Ukraine’s border are “poised to strike”.

The drills come amid tensions boiling between the West and Russia over the Ukraine conflict.

Russia test-fired its latest hypersonic, cruise and nuclear-capable ballistic missiles on the ground, at sea and in the air, as part of “planned exercises” under the watchful eyes of President Vladimir Putin, who was joined by Belarus’ Alexander Lukashenko.

“All the missiles hit their targets, confirming their performance objectives,” the Kremlin said in a statement, adding that the drills included Tu-95 bombers and submarines.

“The main objective of these exercises is to perfect the performance of our strategic offensive forces, with the aim of delivering a guaranteed strike against the enemy," chief of the general staff Valery Gerasimov told Putin in televised comments.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-invading-ukraine-will-invite-bolstered-nato-on-europes-eastern-flank-harris-454615" hreflang="en">Kamala Harris warns Russia of huge financial costs if it invades Ukraine</a>

The drills included Russia's Black and North Sea navies, as well as the country's strategic forces, the Kremlin said.

Meanwhile, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said Russian forces were beginning to “uncoil and move closer” to the border with its former Soviet neighbour.

“We hope he steps back from the brink of conflict,” he told a news conference on a visit to Lithuania, saying an invasion of Ukraine was not inevitable.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-russian-rebel-leader-announces-general-mobilisation-1-ukraine-soldier-killed-in-clashes-454514">Pro-Russian rebel leader announces 'general mobilisation'; 1 Ukraine soldier killed in clashes</a>

The US has been accusing Russia of amassing over 150,000 soldiers near the borders even as Kremlin announced that is pulling back.

Joe Biden has been claiming that Russia can attack Ukraine “any time now”.

Earlier in the day, Russian-backed separatist leaders in eastern Ukraine declared a full military mobilisation, a day after ordering women and children to evacuate to Russia, citing the threat of an imminent attack by Ukrainian forces.

Both Kyiv and Washington have denied the accusation saying that increased shelling across the ceasefire line this week is part of Russia's plan to create a pretext for an invasion of Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Saturday launched its “planned” nuclear drills hours after the US said that the Russian troops manned near Ukraine’s border are “poised to strike”. The drills come amid tensions boiling between the West and Russia over the Ukraine conflict.

Russia on Saturday launched its “planned” nuclear drills hours after the US said that the Russian troops manned near Ukraine’s border are “poised to strike”. The drills come amid tensions boiling between the West and Russia over the Ukraine conflict. Russia test-fired its latest hypersonic, cruise and nuclear-capable ballistic missiles on the ground, at sea and in the air, as part of “planned exercises” under the watchful eyes of President Vladimir Putin, who was joined by Belarus’ Alexander Lukashenko. “All the missiles hit their targets, confirming their performance objectives,” the Kremlin said in a statement, adding that the drills included Tu-95 bombers and submarines. “The main objective of these exercises is to perfect the performance of our strategic offensive forces, with the aim of delivering a guaranteed strike against the enemy," chief of the general staff Valery Gerasimov told Putin in televised comments. Also read | Kamala Harris warns Russia of huge financial costs if it invades Ukraine The drills included Russia's Black and North Sea navies, as well as the country's strategic forces, the Kremlin said. Meanwhile, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said Russian forces were beginning to “uncoil and move closer” to the border with its former Soviet neighbour. “We hope he steps back from the brink of conflict,” he told a news conference on a visit to Lithuania, saying an invasion of Ukraine was not inevitable. Also read | Pro-Russian rebel leader announces 'general mobilisation'; 1 Ukraine soldier killed in clashes The US has been accusing Russia of amassing over 150,000 soldiers near the borders even as Kremlin announced that is pulling back. Joe Biden has been claiming that Russia can attack Ukraine “any time now”. Earlier in the day, Russian-backed separatist leaders in eastern Ukraine declared a full military mobilisation, a day after ordering women and children to evacuate to Russia, citing the threat of an imminent attack by Ukrainian forces. Both Kyiv and Washington have denied the accusation saying that increased shelling across the ceasefire line this week is part of Russia's plan to create a pretext for an invasion of Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Ballistic, cruise missiles in exercises: Russia flexes muscles as US says Moscow ‘poised to strike’

At the United Nations Security Council meeting on the Ukraine crisis, India reiterated that the “wellbeing” of its citizens is a priority for New Delhi when it comes to the precarious situation.

India has around 20,000 nationals in the country, most of them are students perusing medical education.

Speaking at the security council meeting under Russia’s presidency, Indian envoy to United Nations TS Tirumurti called for “immediate de-escalation of tensions” asking the member countries to take into “account the legitimate security interests of all countries and aimed towards securing long-term peace and stability in the region and beyond.”

This is the second meeting that was called in to discuss the Ukraine issue. It is taking place in the backdrop of the Minsk agreement.

At the meeting, India backed the implementation of the Minsk pact and talks under the Normandy Format.

The Indian envoy said, "We believe that the Minsk Agreements provide a basis for a negotiated and peaceful settlement of the situation in eastern Ukraine. All parties should continue to engage through all possible diplomatic channels and keep working towards the full implementation of the agreements.”

The Minsk Protocol is an agreement that came into being in 2014-15 in an attempt to defuse the war in eastern Ukraine regions of Donetsk and Luhansk.

The agreement seeks to halt the conflict that began when Russia-backed separatists seized swaths of territory following Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimean.

Russia, Ukraine, and the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe are part of the agreement.

The Normandy Format is an extension of the Minsk pact which focuses on implementing the agreements,

Germany, France and members of the Minsk pact are part of the Normandy format talks.

Calling for the early implementat9ion of the Minsk pact, Tirumurti said, “We believe that meetings under the Normandy Format will further facilitate the implementation of the provisions of the Minsk Agreements, including its key security and political aspects.”

He also welcomed the recent meetings of the Political Advisers of Normandy Format countries in Paris and Berlin.

"Any steps that increase tension may best be avoided by all sides in the larger interest of securing international peace and security,” he said while supporting “quiet and constructive diplomacy”.

Thursday's UNSC meeting saw a lot of friction between Russia and the US. In the meeting, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned that Russia is planning to manufacture “a pretext” to attack Ukraine.

“This could be a violent event that Russia will blame on Ukraine, or an outrageous accusation that Russia will level against the Ukrainian Government,” he said.

Moscow, however, dismissed the West’s accusation. Russia was represented by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin.

Notably, Vershinin visited Delhi a few weeks ago to brief India about the ongoing crisis in eastern Europe.

The last UNSC meeting happened in January under Norway's presidency of the council.

While no procedural vote occurred in Thursday's meeting, the January meeting saw 10 out of 15 countries in the council voting in support of having an open discussion on Ukraine, whereas three countries abstained, including India. Two countries, Russia and China, voted against the proposal.

At the United Nations Security Council meeting on the Ukraine crisis, India reiterated that the “wellbeing” of its citizens is a priority for New Delhi when it comes to the precarious situation.

At the United Nations Security Council meeting on the Ukraine crisis, India reiterated that the “wellbeing” of its citizens is a priority for New Delhi when it comes to the precarious situation. India has around 20,000 nationals in the country, most of them are students perusing medical education. Speaking at the security council meeting under Russia’s presidency, Indian envoy to United Nations TS Tirumurti called for “immediate de-escalation of tensions” asking the member countries to take into “account the legitimate security interests of all countries and aimed towards securing long-term peace and stability in the region and beyond.” This is the second meeting that was called in to discuss the Ukraine issue. It is taking place in the backdrop of the Minsk agreement. At the meeting, India backed the implementation of the Minsk pact and talks under the Normandy Format. The Indian envoy said, "We believe that the Minsk Agreements provide a basis for a negotiated and peaceful settlement of the situation in eastern Ukraine. All parties should continue to engage through all possible diplomatic channels and keep working towards the full implementation of the agreements.” The Minsk Protocol is an agreement that came into being in 2014-15 in an attempt to defuse the war in eastern Ukraine regions of Donetsk and Luhansk. The agreement seeks to halt the conflict that began when Russia-backed separatists seized swaths of territory following Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimean. Russia, Ukraine, and the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe are part of the agreement. The Normandy Format is an extension of the Minsk pact which focuses on implementing the agreements, Germany, France and members of the Minsk pact are part of the Normandy format talks. Calling for the early implementat9ion of the Minsk pact, Tirumurti said, “We believe that meetings under the Normandy Format will further facilitate the implementation of the provisions of the Minsk Agreements, including its key security and political aspects.” He also welcomed the recent meetings of the Political Advisers of Normandy Format countries in Paris and Berlin. "Any steps that increase tension may best be avoided by all sides in the larger interest of securing international peace and security,” he said while supporting “quiet and constructive diplomacy”. Thursday's UNSC meeting saw a lot of friction between Russia and the US. In the meeting, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned that Russia is planning to manufacture “a pretext” to attack Ukraine. “This could be a violent event that Russia will blame on Ukraine, or an outrageous accusation that Russia will level against the Ukrainian Government,” he said. Moscow, however, dismissed the West’s accusation. Russia was represented by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin. Notably, Vershinin visited Delhi a few weeks ago to brief India about the ongoing crisis in eastern Europe. The last UNSC meeting happened in January under Norway's presidency of the council. While no procedural vote occurred in Thursday's meeting, the January meeting saw 10 out of 15 countries in the council voting in support of having an open discussion on Ukraine, whereas three countries abstained, including India. Two countries, Russia and China, voted against the proposal.

At UNSC meet on Ukraine , India says 'wellbeing' of its nationals is a priority

Ukraine on Tuesday said that websites of the country’s defence ministry, armed forces and two banks came under a cyber attack.

The Ukrainian Centre for Strategic Communications and Information Security, which is part of the culture ministry, issued a statement suggesting that the perpetrator may have Russian origins.

“It is not ruled out that the aggressor used tactics of little dirty tricks because its aggressive plans are not working out on a large scale,” it said.

A message on the home page of the Ukrainian defence ministry website said it was under maintenance. The ministry tweeted that its website was apparently under a cyber attack and it was working on restoring access to it.

Kyiv has blamed Moscow for similar attacks in the past, since Russia began massing more than 100,000 troops near the frontier.

The latest attack came hours after Russia indicated de-escalation of the Ukrainian crisis, with President Vladimir Putin asserting that his country does not seek war.

The Kremlin confirmed the pullback of some forces from Ukraine's borders, but said the move was planned and stressed Russia would continue to move troops across the country as it saw fit.

However, in a strange coincidence, US intelligence had predicted that cyber attacks would precede Russia’s Ukraine invasion on February 16.

According to POLITICO, President Joe Biden is reported to have informed allies over the phone that Russia will start a physical assault on Ukraine as soon as February 16.

He reportedly claimed that the invasion would be preceded by a barrage of missile strikes and cyber attacks

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine on Tuesday said that websites of the country’s defence ministry, armed forces and two banks came under a cyber attack. The Ukrainian Centre for Strategic Communications and Information Security, which is part of the culture ministry, issued a statement suggesting that the perpetrator may have Russian origins.

Ukraine on Tuesday said that websites of the country’s defence ministry, armed forces and two banks came under a cyber attack. The Ukrainian Centre for Strategic Communications and Information Security, which is part of the culture ministry, issued a statement suggesting that the perpetrator may have Russian origins. “It is not ruled out that the aggressor used tactics of little dirty tricks because its aggressive plans are not working out on a large scale,” it said. A message on the home page of the Ukrainian defence ministry website said it was under maintenance. The ministry tweeted that its website was apparently under a cyber attack and it was working on restoring access to it. Kyiv has blamed Moscow for similar attacks in the past, since Russia began massing more than 100,000 troops near the frontier. The latest attack came hours after Russia indicated de-escalation of the Ukrainian crisis, with President Vladimir Putin asserting that his country does not seek war. The Kremlin confirmed the pullback of some forces from Ukraine's borders, but said the move was planned and stressed Russia would continue to move troops across the country as it saw fit. However, in a strange coincidence, US intelligence had predicted that cyber attacks would precede Russia’s Ukraine invasion on February 16. According to POLITICO, President Joe Biden is reported to have informed allies over the phone that Russia will start a physical assault on Ukraine as soon as February 16. He reportedly claimed that the invasion would be preceded by a barrage of missile strikes and cyber attacks (With inputs from agencies)

As predicted by US, Ukraine hit by cyber attacks amid Russian invasion fears

Expressing concern over increasing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, Pope Francis hoped that the talks between the two countries, adding that a war in the eastern European country “would be madness”.

Speaking at his Wednesday general audience, Francis thanked those who took part in his January 26 international day of prayer for peace in Ukraine.

“Let us continue to beg the God of peace so that the tensions and threats of war can be overcome through a serious dialogue and that the Normandy Format talks can contribute to this aim,” he said, referring to negotiations involving Russia and Ukraine, facilitated by Germany and France.

“And let's not forget. War is madness,” he said.

Russia has reportedly gathered troops near the Ukraine borders, stoking fears of an invasion. But Kremlin has reputedly denied the accusations made by the West and maintained that it doesn’t intend to repeat the 2014 skirmish that led to the annexation of Crimea.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-macron-pushes-for-peace-as-russian-warships-head-to-the-black-sea-for-drills-451586" hreflang="en">Ukraine row: Macron pushes for peace as Russian warships get ready for drills</a>

Most Ukrainians follow Orthodox Christianity, but the country is also home to its own branch of the Catholic Church, which practices an eastern rite similar to Orthodox worship while proclaiming loyalty to the Pope in Rome.

Earlier in the day, French President Emmanuel Macron, who is in Moscow to meet his counterpart Vladimir Putin, said that he was assured that Kremlin would not escalate the Ukrainian crisis.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-would-be-wise-for-americans-to-leave-ukraine-says-biden-451453">It 'would be wise' for Americans to leave Ukraine, says Biden</a>

Macron also said it would take time to find a diplomatic solution to the rising tensions, which represent the biggest security crisis between Russia and the West since the Cold War.

His remarks on a visit to Kyiv came as the Kremlin denied reports that he and Putin struck a deal on de-escalating the crisis.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that “in the current situation, Moscow and Paris can’t be reaching any deals.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Expressing concern over increasing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, Pope Francis hoped that the talks between the two countries, adding that a war in the eastern European country “would be madness”.

Expressing concern over increasing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, Pope Francis hoped that the talks between the two countries, adding that a war in the eastern European country “would be madness”. Speaking at his Wednesday general audience, Francis thanked those who took part in his January 26 international day of prayer for peace in Ukraine. “Let us continue to beg the God of peace so that the tensions and threats of war can be overcome through a serious dialogue and that the Normandy Format talks can contribute to this aim,” he said, referring to negotiations involving Russia and Ukraine, facilitated by Germany and France. “And let's not forget. War is madness,” he said. Russia has reportedly gathered troops near the Ukraine borders, stoking fears of an invasion. But Kremlin has reputedly denied the accusations made by the West and maintained that it doesn’t intend to repeat the 2014 skirmish that led to the annexation of Crimea. Also read | Ukraine row: Macron pushes for peace as Russian warships get ready for drills Most Ukrainians follow Orthodox Christianity, but the country is also home to its own branch of the Catholic Church, which practices an eastern rite similar to Orthodox worship while proclaiming loyalty to the Pope in Rome. Earlier in the day, French President Emmanuel Macron, who is in Moscow to meet his counterpart Vladimir Putin, said that he was assured that Kremlin would not escalate the Ukrainian crisis. Also read | It 'would be wise' for Americans to leave Ukraine, says Biden Macron also said it would take time to find a diplomatic solution to the rising tensions, which represent the biggest security crisis between Russia and the West since the Cold War. His remarks on a visit to Kyiv came as the Kremlin denied reports that he and Putin struck a deal on de-escalating the crisis. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that “in the current situation, Moscow and Paris can’t be reaching any deals.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘War is madness’: Pope Francis backs for talks between Ukraine and Russia

French President Emmanuel Macron visited Moscow in a last-ditch effort to de-escalate the stand-off in Ukraine. US intel suggests Kyiv would fall in 48 to 72 hours if Russia invades. Is the window for diplomacy shrinking? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas Ukraine Direct: Macron heads to Moscow, Kremlin circumspect

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

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

Tensions are running deep in Ukraine, even though Russia says it's not planning a Ukrainian invasion its troops are carrying out aerial drills just 75Kms away from the Ukrainian capital Kyiv. Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you more updates from ground zero.

NATO: Significant movement of Russian military forces

While the gridlock continues over Ukraine Russian ambassador to Washington Anatoly Antonov has reiterated that Russia is not planning to attack Ukraine the envoy added that war is not Moscow's interest

Russian Envoy to US - No truth behind illusory plans of Russian aggression

For several months now since November, the leaders of the west, Russia, and indeed the United States have been engaged in an escalating war of words. The political shadow boxing has been over a possible Russian incursion into Ukraine, in the aftermath of Russia having amassed almost over a hundred thousand troops along the borders with eastern Ukraine.

Ukraine Conflict: First US reinforcement troops for EU arrive in Germany

Amid escalating tensions over the Ukraine conflict, top officials from Washington and Moscow will hold fresh talks today. The US secretary of state Antony Blinken will speak to his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov.

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken to speak to Sergei Lavrov

On the 30th anniversary of the founding of Ukraine’s armed forces this week, the country’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, donned a helmet and flak jacket to tour the trenches and announced with great fanfare the delivery of new tanks, armoured vehicles and ships to front-line units engaged in fighting Russian forces and Kremlin-backed separatists.

While the weapons systems may help to maintain parity in the slow-moving war of attrition that has prevailed for years, neither they nor anything else the Ukrainian military can now muster would be sufficient to repel the full-on Russian assault that Ukrainian and Western officials say Moscow appears to be preparing. With nearly 100,000 troops now massed across Ukraine’s eastern, northern and southern borders and more on the way, even the Ukrainian officials responsible for their country’s defence acknowledge that without a significant influx of resources, their forces do not stand much of a chance.

“Unfortunately, Ukraine needs to be objective at this stage,” said Gen. Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine’s military intelligence service. “There are not sufficient military resources for repelling a full-scale attack by Russia if it begins without the support of Western forces.”

Budanov outlined his nightmare vision of a Russian invasion that would begin with airstrikes and rocket attacks aimed initially at ammunition depots and trench-bound troops. Very quickly, he said, the Ukrainian military would be incapacitated, its leadership unable to coordinate a defence and supply the front. After that, he said, responsibility would fall to front-line commanders to carry on the fight alone.

“They will hold up as long as there are bullets,” Budanov said. “They’ll be able to use what they have in their hands, but believe me without delivery of reserves, there’s not an army in the world that can hold out.”

While Russia could be prepared militarily to launch an invasion of Ukraine as early as January or February, Ukraine and Western intelligence services say there is no indication that Russia President Vladimir Putin has made up his mind whether to do so. In a video call with President Joe Biden on Tuesday, Putin dismissed concerns about the troop buildup on Ukraine’s border, shifting blame to the United States and NATO, which he accused of threatening Russia’s security by supporting Ukraine’s military with arms and training.

“The Russian troops are on their own territory,” an adviser to Putin, Yuri Ushakov, said in a briefing with reporters after the presidents had spoken. “They don’t threaten anyone.”

Still, the amassing of troops and heavy weaponry on the border has forced Ukrainian officials to face some hard truths in recent weeks. The U.S. intelligence community has assessed that Russia has devised plans for an offensive involving 175,000 troops.

Ukraine has only slightly more enlisted soldiers and officers in its entire military, according to the Ministry of Defense. It is outgunned on land, at sea and in the air, with only about 200 aircraft in its air force, including transport vehicles, fewer than the number of fighter planes that Russia has deployed already to the Ukrainian border.

Russia’s forces include battle-ready submarines and frigates in the Black Sea armed with cruise missiles, and land-based units equipped with Iskander-M ballistic missiles, while Ukraine lacks serious missile defence systems. The Russian missiles could wipe out a significant part of the Ukrainian military in less than an hour, said Robert Lee, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and PhD candidate at King’s College in London, who is a Russian military expert.

“If Russia really wants to unleash its conventional capabilities, they could inflict massive damage in a very short period of time,” Lee said. “They can devastate the Ukrainian military in the east really quickly, within the first 30-40 minutes.”

Ukraine’s military is not the pushover it once was. In 2014, elite Russia troops were able to seize the entire Crimean Peninsula in southern Ukraine without firing a shot. When Russian-backed separatists then took over part of eastern Ukraine’s Donbass region, Ukraine had to rely on volunteer brigades of people who took up arms, with little or no military training, to help beat back the insurgency.

But the Ukrainian military clawed its way back, fighting the separatists to a stalemate and putting a stop to the most serious hostilities. It did so with help from Western allies. The United States alone has provided $2.5 billion in military assistance that has included high-tech surveillance and communications equipment and drones. In November, the United States delivered about 88 tons of ammunition, part of a $60 million military aid package pledged by the Biden administration.

On Wednesday, Biden ruled out deploying U.S. forces to Ukraine to deter Russia. But there are more than 150 U.S. military advisers in Ukraine, a combination of U.S. Special Forces and National Guard, currently the Florida National Guard’s 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, according to two U.S. Defense Department officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive troop deployments. About a dozen other NATO countries also have military advisers in Ukraine now, the officials said.

Under the Trump administration, the Ukrainians, for the first time, were given anti-tank Javelin missiles. Ukrainian forces have refrained from firing Javelins on the battlefield, partly from a desire to avoid antagonizing the Kremlin.

The Biden administration has continued to supply them, delivering a new cache of missiles in October. John F. Kirby, a Pentagon spokesperson, said Wednesday that there were no conditions or restrictions placed on the Javelins, except that the Ukrainian forces use them “responsibly” and “in self-defence.”

In an interview with Radio Liberty this month, Gen. Oleksandr Pavlyuk, the commander of the Joint Operation Forces fighting the separatists, said the Javelins had already been deployed to military units in eastern Ukraine. A senior Ukrainian military official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military issues, confirmed that Javelin missiles had been deployed to front-line military units a month ago, but had not yet been fired in battle.

“The Javelins are there, and if our enemies employ tanks they will be used,” the official said.

The Biden administration has remained vague about how else it might come to Ukraine’s defence in case of invasion.

In his video call with Putin on Tuesday, Biden looked his counterpart in the eye and warned the United States would go beyond the economic punishments imposed on Russia after the 2014 seizure of Crimea should Putin decide to order military action, according to an account by Jake Sullivan, the president’s national security adviser. What those penalties might be were left unclear, though few expect the United States to commit significant military assistance beyond what has already been provided.

The lack of firm commitments from Ukraine’s Western backers are a source of consternation for Ukrainian officials.

“They need to decide, either we’re allies as they declare — and in that case allies help one another — or they need to say that this is not exactly the case,” said Budanov, the military intelligence chief. “If the civilized world wants to avoid catastrophe — and this will be a catastrophe for everyone — we need military technical support now, not tomorrow, not the day after tomorrow, not in year. Now.”

Those who understand that such a level of support is unlikely have begun to speak darkly of popular armed resistance against any Russian occupation. Pavlyuk noted that Ukraine had up to half a million people with military experience. If the West does not come to Ukraine’s aid, he said, “we’ll start a partisan war.”

“Eight years have passed and there are very many people with military experience who are prepared with weapons in their hands to fight,” he said.

One senior Ukrainian military official who spoke on condition of anonymity said that if all else failed, the military would simply open its weapons depots and allow the Ukrainian people to take whatever they need to defend themselves and their families.

On the 30th anniversary of the founding of Ukraine’s armed forces this week, the country’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, donned a helmet and flak jacket to tour the trenches and announced with great fanfare the delivery of new tanks, armoured vehicles and ships to front-line units engaged in fighting Russian forces and Kremlin-backed separatists.

On the 30th anniversary of the founding of Ukraine’s armed forces this week, the country’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, donned a helmet and flak jacket to tour the trenches and announced with great fanfare the delivery of new tanks, armoured vehicles and ships to front-line units engaged in fighting Russian forces and Kremlin-backed separatists. While the weapons systems may help to maintain parity in the slow-moving war of attrition that has prevailed for years, neither they nor anything else the Ukrainian military can now muster would be sufficient to repel the full-on Russian assault that Ukrainian and Western officials say Moscow appears to be preparing. With nearly 100,000 troops now massed across Ukraine’s eastern, northern and southern borders and more on the way, even the Ukrainian officials responsible for their country’s defence acknowledge that without a significant influx of resources, their forces do not stand much of a chance. “Unfortunately, Ukraine needs to be objective at this stage,” said Gen. Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine’s military intelligence service. “There are not sufficient military resources for repelling a full-scale attack by Russia if it begins without the support of Western forces.” Budanov outlined his nightmare vision of a Russian invasion that would begin with airstrikes and rocket attacks aimed initially at ammunition depots and trench-bound troops. Very quickly, he said, the Ukrainian military would be incapacitated, its leadership unable to coordinate a defence and supply the front. After that, he said, responsibility would fall to front-line commanders to carry on the fight alone. “They will hold up as long as there are bullets,” Budanov said. “They’ll be able to use what they have in their hands, but believe me without delivery of reserves, there’s not an army in the world that can hold out.” While Russia could be prepared militarily to launch an invasion of Ukraine as early as January or February, Ukraine and Western intelligence services say there is no indication that Russia President Vladimir Putin has made up his mind whether to do so. In a video call with President Joe Biden on Tuesday, Putin dismissed concerns about the troop buildup on Ukraine’s border, shifting blame to the United States and NATO, which he accused of threatening Russia’s security by supporting Ukraine’s military with arms and training. “The Russian troops are on their own territory,” an adviser to Putin, Yuri Ushakov, said in a briefing with reporters after the presidents had spoken. “They don’t threaten anyone.” Still, the amassing of troops and heavy weaponry on the border has forced Ukrainian officials to face some hard truths in recent weeks. The U.S. intelligence community has assessed that Russia has devised plans for an offensive involving 175,000 troops. Ukraine has only slightly more enlisted soldiers and officers in its entire military, according to the Ministry of Defense. It is outgunned on land, at sea and in the air, with only about 200 aircraft in its air force, including transport vehicles, fewer than the number of fighter planes that Russia has deployed already to the Ukrainian border. Russia’s forces include battle-ready submarines and frigates in the Black Sea armed with cruise missiles, and land-based units equipped with Iskander-M ballistic missiles, while Ukraine lacks serious missile defence systems. The Russian missiles could wipe out a significant part of the Ukrainian military in less than an hour, said Robert Lee, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and PhD candidate at King’s College in London, who is a Russian military expert. “If Russia really wants to unleash its conventional capabilities, they could inflict massive damage in a very short period of time,” Lee said. “They can devastate the Ukrainian military in the east really quickly, within the first 30-40 minutes.” Ukraine’s military is not the pushover it once was. In 2014, elite Russia troops were able to seize the entire Crimean Peninsula in southern Ukraine without firing a shot. When Russian-backed separatists then took over part of eastern Ukraine’s Donbass region, Ukraine had to rely on volunteer brigades of people who took up arms, with little or no military training, to help beat back the insurgency. But the Ukrainian military clawed its way back, fighting the separatists to a stalemate and putting a stop to the most serious hostilities. It did so with help from Western allies. The United States alone has provided $2.5 billion in military assistance that has included high-tech surveillance and communications equipment and drones. In November, the United States delivered about 88 tons of ammunition, part of a $60 million military aid package pledged by the Biden administration. On Wednesday, Biden ruled out deploying U.S. forces to Ukraine to deter Russia. But there are more than 150 U.S. military advisers in Ukraine, a combination of U.S. Special Forces and National Guard, currently the Florida National Guard’s 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, according to two U.S. Defense Department officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive troop deployments. About a dozen other NATO countries also have military advisers in Ukraine now, the officials said. Under the Trump administration, the Ukrainians, for the first time, were given anti-tank Javelin missiles. Ukrainian forces have refrained from firing Javelins on the battlefield, partly from a desire to avoid antagonizing the Kremlin. The Biden administration has continued to supply them, delivering a new cache of missiles in October. John F. Kirby, a Pentagon spokesperson, said Wednesday that there were no conditions or restrictions placed on the Javelins, except that the Ukrainian forces use them “responsibly” and “in self-defence.” In an interview with Radio Liberty this month, Gen. Oleksandr Pavlyuk, the commander of the Joint Operation Forces fighting the separatists, said the Javelins had already been deployed to military units in eastern Ukraine. A senior Ukrainian military official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military issues, confirmed that Javelin missiles had been deployed to front-line military units a month ago, but had not yet been fired in battle. “The Javelins are there, and if our enemies employ tanks they will be used,” the official said. The Biden administration has remained vague about how else it might come to Ukraine’s defence in case of invasion. In his video call with Putin on Tuesday, Biden looked his counterpart in the eye and warned the United States would go beyond the economic punishments imposed on Russia after the 2014 seizure of Crimea should Putin decide to order military action, according to an account by Jake Sullivan, the president’s national security adviser. What those penalties might be were left unclear, though few expect the United States to commit significant military assistance beyond what has already been provided. The lack of firm commitments from Ukraine’s Western backers are a source of consternation for Ukrainian officials. “They need to decide, either we’re allies as they declare — and in that case allies help one another — or they need to say that this is not exactly the case,” said Budanov, the military intelligence chief. “If the civilized world wants to avoid catastrophe — and this will be a catastrophe for everyone — we need military technical support now, not tomorrow, not the day after tomorrow, not in year. Now.” Those who understand that such a level of support is unlikely have begun to speak darkly of popular armed resistance against any Russian occupation. Pavlyuk noted that Ukraine had up to half a million people with military experience. If the West does not come to Ukraine’s aid, he said, “we’ll start a partisan war.” “Eight years have passed and there are very many people with military experience who are prepared with weapons in their hands to fight,” he said. One senior Ukrainian military official who spoke on condition of anonymity said that if all else failed, the military would simply open its weapons depots and allow the Ukrainian people to take whatever they need to defend themselves and their families.

Ukraine commanders say a Russian invasion would overwhelm them

A Ukrainian soldier shot dead five people and injured another five at a military plant, the country’s interior ministry said Thursday.

The incident took place in the early hours of Thursday at a state-owned machine-building factory in the eastern city of Dnipro when weapons were being issued to the guards at the start of a shift, a police statement said.

The attacker opened fire with a Kalashnikov assault rifle and afterwards fled the scene, the interior ministry said, adding: “As a result, five people died and another five were injured.”

A female soldier was among those who died after succumbing to her injuries. The doctors are “fighting” to save the lives of those injured, Ukraine's Interior Minister Denys Monastyrsky said on Facebook, where he sent his condolences to the victims' family and friends.

The 20-year-old Ukrainian National Guard service-member, who was on the run, was caught around 20 kilometres north of the shooting site.

The plant where the shooting took place works with Ukraine's State Space Agency to produce rocket and airspace technology, including missiles systems and space launch vehicles, according to state news agency Ukrinform.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has ordered a probe into the incident. He called the mass shooting "terrible" and offered condolences to the victims' families and friends.

The attack comes at a time when Ukraine is locked in a tiff with Russia over reports of a military build-up near its borders.

The US and other NATO members have accused Russia of planning an invasion of the country. Kremlin denies the charge.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Ukrainian soldier shot dead five people and injured another five at a military plant, the country’s interior ministry said Thursday. The incident took place in the early hours of Thursday at a state-owned machine-building factory in the eastern city of Dnipro when weapons were being issued to the guards at the start of a shift, a police statement said.

A Ukrainian soldier shot dead five people and injured another five at a military plant, the country’s interior ministry said Thursday. The incident took place in the early hours of Thursday at a state-owned machine-building factory in the eastern city of Dnipro when weapons were being issued to the guards at the start of a shift, a police statement said. The attacker opened fire with a Kalashnikov assault rifle and afterwards fled the scene, the interior ministry said, adding: “As a result, five people died and another five were injured.” A female soldier was among those who died after succumbing to her injuries. The doctors are “fighting” to save the lives of those injured, Ukraine's Interior Minister Denys Monastyrsky said on Facebook, where he sent his condolences to the victims' family and friends. The 20-year-old Ukrainian National Guard service-member, who was on the run, was caught around 20 kilometres north of the shooting site. The plant where the shooting took place works with Ukraine's State Space Agency to produce rocket and airspace technology, including missiles systems and space launch vehicles, according to state news agency Ukrinform. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has ordered a probe into the incident. He called the mass shooting "terrible" and offered condolences to the victims' families and friends. The attack comes at a time when Ukraine is locked in a tiff with Russia over reports of a military build-up near its borders. The US and other NATO members have accused Russia of planning an invasion of the country. Kremlin denies the charge. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian soldier shoots down 5 guards, injures 5 at military plant

Ukraine says, there are at least 127,000 Russian troops at its borders and thousands more are expected to arrive in Belarus soon.

More Russian troops to arrive in Belarus soon, says Ukraine

The Pentagon has announced that nearly 8,500 American troops have been put on “heightened alert” for a possible deployment due to escalating tensions on the Russia-Ukraine border.

US puts 8,500 troops on heightened alert amid growing tensions with Russia over Ukraine

The United States has ordered the family members of its embassy staff in Ukraine to leave the country. The decision comes due to the ongoing threat of Russia's military action.

United States orders kin of embassy staff in Ukraine to leave the country

Western leaders are stepping up pressure on Moscow ahead of the security talks with Russia. The top American diplomat Antony Blinken has said that the upcoming dialogue will not succeed so long as a gun is pointed towards Ukraine's head.

Antony Blinken: No progress with a gun to Ukraine's head

People around the world is is Russia getting prepared for a war with Ukraine. Now there's been a massive true build up along Ukraine's bottom and there's also been a new missile test and the u.s Russia tensions remain at an all-time high.

Russian forces train near Ukraine border

Sphere mounts over a major military escalation in Ukraine Kiev's top security official has now claimed that Russian president Vladimir Putin is pretty much bent on destroying the country.

Kiev Security Supremo Warns Russia

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