In an attempt to cement their authority in the occupied regions, Russian authorities on Thursday (August 31) began holding elections in parts of&nbsp;Moscow-annexed Ukrainian territories. Russia currently controls one-fifth of Ukraine's territory: the Crimea peninsula annexed in 2014, and parts of&nbsp;Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions annexed in 2022.

Moscow's handpicked governors, which include veteran pro-Russian politicians and others known only locally, are currently seeking full terms of office in the four regions. The polls will conclude on September 10, when Russia holds regional polls, according to a Reuters report.&nbsp;&nbsp;

All governors have the endorsement of President Vladimir Putin after joining the Kremlin's United Russia bloc with fanfare in recent months. Consequently, most are facing only nominal opposition.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-cardboard-drone-tech-used-against-russia-630941">Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Cardboard drone tech used against Russia</a>

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<h2>Kyiv condemns the move&nbsp;</h2>

Kyiv has condemned the move and urged the citizens living in the "occupied areas" to not vote in the election, adding they should "leave the region" if possible.

"Russians have started holding 'elections' to pseudo-local councils and 'legislative bodies' in the temporarily occupied territories," Ukraine's National Resistance Centre (NRC), an official agency, was quoted as saying by CNN.&nbsp;

“We urge Ukrainians not to open their doors to the occupiers and, if possible, to leave the region or their homes for the period of 'early voting'," added NRC.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/telegram-post-ignites-concerns-about-russian-president-vladimir-putins-health-ukraine-reacts-631170">Also read |&nbsp;Telegram post ignites concerns about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health. Ukraine reacts</a>

Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov slammed the West saying Moscow will not cooperate with the bloc in areas on which its security depends.

“Even if suddenly, by some incomprehensible command from above, the West offers us to return to more or less normal contacts, we will already think whether we should do this, and if so, in what areas,” said Lavrov.&nbsp;

“We will not agree to interact with the West, on which our security depends in every sense: military-political security, economic, technological,” he added.&nbsp;

<h2>The war extends&nbsp;</h2>

The Rusia-Ukraine war began last year in February and has dragged on for over 500 days with thousands of casualties and billions in damages. Despite Kyiv initiating a counteroffensive earlier this year, not much has changed on the ground.&nbsp;

After weeks of grinding combat, Kyiv is hoping for a major breakthrough in the Zaporizhzhia region after recapturing the village of Robotyne this week.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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In an attempt to cement their authority in the occupied regions, Russian authorities on Thursday (August 31) began holding elections in parts of Moscow-annexed Ukrainian territories.

In an attempt to cement their authority in the occupied regions, Russian authorities on Thursday (August 31) began holding elections in parts of Moscow-annexed Ukrainian territories. Russia currently controls one-fifth of Ukraine's territory: the Crimea peninsula annexed in 2014, and parts of Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions annexed in 2022. Moscow's handpicked governors, which include veteran pro-Russian politicians and others known only locally, are currently seeking full terms of office in the four regions. The polls will conclude on September 10, when Russia holds regional polls, according to a Reuters report. All governors have the endorsement of President Vladimir Putin after joining the Kremlin's United Russia bloc with fanfare in recent months. Consequently, most are facing only nominal opposition. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Cardboard drone tech used against Russia × Kyiv condemns the move Kyiv has condemned the move and urged the citizens living in the "occupied areas" to not vote in the election, adding they should "leave the region" if possible. "Russians have started holding 'elections' to pseudo-local councils and 'legislative bodies' in the temporarily occupied territories," Ukraine's National Resistance Centre (NRC), an official agency, was quoted as saying by CNN. “We urge Ukrainians not to open their doors to the occupiers and, if possible, to leave the region or their homes for the period of 'early voting'," added NRC. Also read | Telegram post ignites concerns about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health. Ukraine reacts Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov slammed the West saying Moscow will not cooperate with the bloc in areas on which its security depends. “Even if suddenly, by some incomprehensible command from above, the West offers us to return to more or less normal contacts, we will already think whether we should do this, and if so, in what areas,” said Lavrov. “We will not agree to interact with the West, on which our security depends in every sense: military-political security, economic, technological,” he added. The war extends The Rusia-Ukraine war began last year in February and has dragged on for over 500 days with thousands of casualties and billions in damages. Despite Kyiv initiating a counteroffensive earlier this year, not much has changed on the ground. After weeks of grinding combat, Kyiv is hoping for a major breakthrough in the Zaporizhzhia region after recapturing the village of Robotyne this week. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Moscow holds local elections in occupied parts of Ukraine

Russia and Ukraine continue to be involved in ceaseless drone attacks. Kremlin on Wednesday (August 23) said it had thwarted a Ukrainian drone attack in the capital city of Moscow but three people were killed in another strike in Russia near the Ukrainian&nbsp;border.&nbsp;

Belgorod&nbsp;Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov took to social media to inform about the drone strike.&nbsp;

"Three civilians have been killed.&nbsp;The Ukrainian forces launched an explosive device through a drone when people were on the street," said&nbsp;Gladkov, who added the drone hit a&nbsp;sanatorium in a village.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the defence ministry claimed that its air defence forces had gunned down two drones hovering over Mozhaisky and Khimki districts in Moscow. A third appeared to be jammed and out of control as it smashed into a&nbsp;&nbsp;high-rise building under construction in a Moscow business district. The same district was hit on two occasions in three days, at the beginning of the month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-thwarts-ukrainian-drone-attacks-near-moscow-two-airports-affected-627472">Also read |&nbsp;Russia thwarts Ukrainian drone attacks near Moscow, two airports affected</a>

Kyiv rarely takes responsibility for the drone attacks and it had not commented on the Russian claims till the last update. While both sides have engaged in a numerous drone attacks since the war first broke out in February last year, the intensity has increased in recent months.

Experts say that the cancellation of the Black Sea grain deal by Moscow may have added more bitterness to both sides. Since the cancellation, Moscow has been hitting Ukrainian port cities while Kyiv targets Moscow and border areas using drones.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-budget-drones-in-ukraine-are-redefining-warfare-616102">Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Budget drones in Ukraine are redefining warfare&nbsp;</a>

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<h2>Previous instances of drone attacks&nbsp;</h2>

This is not the first instance when Russia has accused Ukraine of targetting the capital city using drones. In May, Kremlin claimed it was&nbsp;attacked by Ukrainian drones&nbsp;which it deemed&nbsp;was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life.&nbsp;

At the time, Kremlin described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and an "assassination attempt on the president of Russia".&nbsp;

"Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the press service had said in a statement.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Russia and Ukraine continue to be involved in ceaseless drone attacks. Kremlin on Wednesday (August 23) said it had thwarted a Ukrainian drone attack in the capital city of Moscow but three people were killed in another strike in Russia near the Ukrainian border.

Russia and Ukraine continue to be involved in ceaseless drone attacks. Kremlin on Wednesday (August 23) said it had thwarted a Ukrainian drone attack in the capital city of Moscow but three people were killed in another strike in Russia near the Ukrainian border. Belgorod Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov took to social media to inform about the drone strike. "Three civilians have been killed. The Ukrainian forces launched an explosive device through a drone when people were on the street," said Gladkov, who added the drone hit a sanatorium in a village. Meanwhile, the defence ministry claimed that its air defence forces had gunned down two drones hovering over Mozhaisky and Khimki districts in Moscow. A third appeared to be jammed and out of control as it smashed into a high-rise building under construction in a Moscow business district. The same district was hit on two occasions in three days, at the beginning of the month. Also read | Russia thwarts Ukrainian drone attacks near Moscow, two airports affected Kyiv rarely takes responsibility for the drone attacks and it had not commented on the Russian claims till the last update. While both sides have engaged in a numerous drone attacks since the war first broke out in February last year, the intensity has increased in recent months. Experts say that the cancellation of the Black Sea grain deal by Moscow may have added more bitterness to both sides. Since the cancellation, Moscow has been hitting Ukrainian port cities while Kyiv targets Moscow and border areas using drones. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Budget drones in Ukraine are redefining warfare Previous instances of drone attacks This is not the first instance when Russia has accused Ukraine of targetting the capital city using drones. In May, Kremlin claimed it was attacked by Ukrainian drones which it deemed was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life. At the time, Kremlin described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and an "assassination attempt on the president of Russia". "Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the press service had said in a statement. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Three killed in Ukrainian drone attacks on border areas, claims Russia

A couple of days after the United States approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark and Netherlands, Kyiv announced training had begun for Ukrainian pilots on operating the planes.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov in a TV interview informed about the training, adding that it would take at least six months or possibly longer to complete it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Therefore, to build reasonable expectations, set a minimum of six months in your mind, but do not be disappointed if it is longer," said&nbsp;Reznikov, adding that he would not give details on where and when the training was taking place,&nbsp;

Earlier this week, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured his&nbsp;Danish and Dutch counterparts that Washington will&nbsp;accelerate clearance of F-16 transfer requests for the war-torn nation after the pilots are trained.&nbsp;

"I am writing to express the United States' full support for both the transfer of F-16 fighter aircraft to Ukraine and for the training of Ukrainian pilots by qualified F-16 instructors," wrote Blinken in a letter accessed by Reuters.&nbsp;

"It remains critical that Ukraine is able to defend itself against ongoing Russian aggression and violation of its sovereignty," he added.&nbsp;

He said the approval of the requests would allow Ukraine to take "full advantage of its new capabilities as soon as the first set of pilots complete their training".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-focuses-on-upping-its-air-defence-systems-594853">WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine focuses on upping its air defence systems</a>

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<h2>US reacts after 'defeatist' Kyiv statement</h2>

The decision by the US came a day after&nbsp;Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat said his&nbsp;country will not be able to operate the F-16&nbsp;fighter jets to defend itself from the Russian onslaught, at least this year.&nbsp;

“It’s already obvious we won’t be able to defend Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets during this autumn and winter,"&nbsp;Ihnat told Ukrainian channels.&nbsp;

“We had big hopes for this plane, that it will become part of air defence, able to protect us from Russia’s missiles and drones terrorism,” he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyiv-sounds-defeatist-says-wont-be-able-to-use-f-16-fighter-jets-this-year-626397">Also read |&nbsp;Kyiv sounds defeatist, says 'won't be able' to use F-16 fighter jets this year</a>

<h2>Kyiv pressing for fighter jets&nbsp;</h2>

Kyiv had&nbsp;been repeatedly calling upon the&nbsp;Western bloc to supply the F-16 jets for its defence against the superior Russian jets. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky remained at the forefront of it as he openly discussed the proposition during his brief appearance at the&nbsp;G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan, earlier this year.&nbsp;

After much back-and-forth, US President Joe Biden endorsed a training programme for&nbsp;Ukrainian pilots but never gave a precise timeline.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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A couple of days after the United States approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark and Netherlands, Kyiv announced training had begun for Ukrainian pilots on operating the planes.

A couple of days after the United States approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark and Netherlands, Kyiv announced training had begun for Ukrainian pilots on operating the planes. Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov in a TV interview informed about the training, adding that it would take at least six months or possibly longer to complete it. "Therefore, to build reasonable expectations, set a minimum of six months in your mind, but do not be disappointed if it is longer," said Reznikov, adding that he would not give details on where and when the training was taking place, Earlier this week, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured his Danish and Dutch counterparts that Washington will accelerate clearance of F-16 transfer requests for the war-torn nation after the pilots are trained. "I am writing to express the United States' full support for both the transfer of F-16 fighter aircraft to Ukraine and for the training of Ukrainian pilots by qualified F-16 instructors," wrote Blinken in a letter accessed by Reuters. "It remains critical that Ukraine is able to defend itself against ongoing Russian aggression and violation of its sovereignty," he added. He said the approval of the requests would allow Ukraine to take "full advantage of its new capabilities as soon as the first set of pilots complete their training". WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine focuses on upping its air defence systems US reacts after 'defeatist' Kyiv statement The decision by the US came a day after Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat said his country will not be able to operate the F-16 fighter jets to defend itself from the Russian onslaught, at least this year. “It’s already obvious we won’t be able to defend Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets during this autumn and winter," Ihnat told Ukrainian channels. “We had big hopes for this plane, that it will become part of air defence, able to protect us from Russia’s missiles and drones terrorism,” he added. Also read | Kyiv sounds defeatist, says 'won't be able' to use F-16 fighter jets this year Kyiv pressing for fighter jets Kyiv had been repeatedly calling upon the Western bloc to supply the F-16 jets for its defence against the superior Russian jets. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky remained at the forefront of it as he openly discussed the proposition during his brief appearance at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan, earlier this year. After much back-and-forth, US President Joe Biden endorsed a training programme for Ukrainian pilots but never gave a precise timeline. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ukrainian troops have begun training to operate F-16s, informs defence minister

Ukraine defences destroyed 15 Russian drones during an attack that took place overnight, Kyiv's air force released a statement on Saturday (August 19).

Further adding details, it said that 17 Iranian-made Shahed drones were used in the aerial assault. However, it did not specify as to what happened to the other two drones.

Russian forces "attacked from the north with 'Shahed-136/131' attack UAVs. A total of 17 attack drones were launched from the Kursk region," the Ukrainian force said on Telegram.

It added that air defences were activated in "northern and central, as well as in the western regions".

"15 enemy drones were destroyed by the forces and means of the Air Force in cooperation with the air defence systems of other components of the Defence Forces of Ukraine."

<h2>Russia claims it destroyed Ukrainian drone&nbsp;</h2>

Russian forces on Friday (August 18) said that they had shot down a Ukrainian drone that was targeted at Moscow and its Black Sea Fleet. The drone, according to the reports, disrupted air traffic at all the civilian airports of the Russian capital.

The Russian defence ministry and Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said that there were no casualties after air defences destroyed the drone which plummeted over a non-residential building in the capital city's Expo Center complex on Friday.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-pm-fumio-kishida-to-visit-fukushima-nuclear-plant-before-governments-decision-on-water-release-626925">Japanese PM Fumio Kishida to visit Fukushima nuclear plant before government's decision on water release</a>

"The UAV, after being exposed to air defence weapons, changed its flight path and fell on a non-residential building in the Krasnopresnenskaya embankment area of Moscow," the ministry said on Telegram.

"The wreckage of the UAV fell in the area of the Expo Centre, and did not cause significant damage to the building," Sergei Sobyanin said on Telegram.

As per the state-run news agency TASS, one of the walls of the venue's pavilion had partially collapsed.

"The area of the collapse is about 30 square meters (323 square feet)," emergency services told TASS.

Citing aviation services, TASS reported that the airspace near the international airport of Vnukovo was briefly closed, delaying departures and arrivals.

(Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos)

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine defences destroyed 15 Russian drones during an attack that took place overnight, Kyiv's air force released a statement on Saturday (August 19). Further adding details, it said that 17 Iranian-made Shahed drones were used in the aerial assault.

Ukraine defences destroyed 15 Russian drones during an attack that took place overnight, Kyiv's air force released a statement on Saturday (August 19). Further adding details, it said that 17 Iranian-made Shahed drones were used in the aerial assault. However, it did not specify as to what happened to the other two drones. Russian forces "attacked from the north with 'Shahed-136/131' attack UAVs. A total of 17 attack drones were launched from the Kursk region," the Ukrainian force said on Telegram. It added that air defences were activated in "northern and central, as well as in the western regions". "15 enemy drones were destroyed by the forces and means of the Air Force in cooperation with the air defence systems of other components of the Defence Forces of Ukraine." Russia claims it destroyed Ukrainian drone Russian forces on Friday (August 18) said that they had shot down a Ukrainian drone that was targeted at Moscow and its Black Sea Fleet. The drone, according to the reports, disrupted air traffic at all the civilian airports of the Russian capital. The Russian defence ministry and Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said that there were no casualties after air defences destroyed the drone which plummeted over a non-residential building in the capital city's Expo Center complex on Friday. Also read: Japanese PM Fumio Kishida to visit Fukushima nuclear plant before government's decision on water release "The UAV, after being exposed to air defence weapons, changed its flight path and fell on a non-residential building in the Krasnopresnenskaya embankment area of Moscow," the ministry said on Telegram. "The wreckage of the UAV fell in the area of the Expo Centre, and did not cause significant damage to the building," Sergei Sobyanin said on Telegram. As per the state-run news agency TASS, one of the walls of the venue's pavilion had partially collapsed. "The area of the collapse is about 30 square meters (323 square feet)," emergency services told TASS. Citing aviation services, TASS reported that the airspace near the international airport of Vnukovo was briefly closed, delaying departures and arrivals. (Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos) (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine says it shot down 15 Russian drones overnight

American alternative-rock band, the Killers, issued an apology following an incident at their recent show in Batumi, Georgia, a former Soviet Republic.&nbsp; 
 
During the performance, the band brought a Russian drummer on stage and referred to the audience as "brothers and sisters," a typical communist addressal,&nbsp;which elicited a negative response from the crowd.

The choice to invite a Russian musician on stage came at a sensitive time, given the ongoing tension between Georgia and Russia.

The strained relationship has been exacerbated by Russia's offensive in Ukraine. The ongoing war, the reports say, has&nbsp;led to&nbsp;an influx of Russian migrants to Georgia. These reports have been denied by the Russian side from time to time.

<h2>Clarification by The Killers</h2>

In a statement posted on their Facebook page, the Killers expressed regret over any offense caused, clarifying that their intention was never to upset anyone. They cited a longstanding tradition of inviting individuals to participate in drumming on stage as the reason behind their decision to include the Russian drummer.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-first-probe-to-the-moon-launched-in-almost-50-years-624395">Russia launches first probe to the Moon in almost 50 years</a>

The phrase "brothers and sisters" used by band leader Brandon Flowers was intended to convey a sense of unity, but it was unfortunately misinterpreted by the audience.

Flowers had hoped to prevent any escalation of negative emotions, emphasising that he saw the concertgoers as part of a shared community.

"We recognise that a comment, meant to suggest that all of the Killers’ audience and fans are ‘brothers and sisters,’ could be misconstrued," the statement added.&nbsp;

Videos circulating on social media depicted disappointed fans leaving the venue and a chorus of boos directed at the band. This incident highlighted the deeply rooted pro-Ukrainian sentiment prevailing among the Georgian public.

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

The Killers, a band that has achieved considerable success since its formation in Las Vegas during the early 2000s, acknowledged the potential for misinterpretation and emphasised their commitment to their music and fans.

Also watch |&nbsp;First flight from Russia to Georgia since 2019 lands to protests

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Despite the Grammy-nominated&nbsp;career of 'The Killers' and chart-topping hits, the incident in Georgia served as a reminder of the complex interplay between music, culture, and geopolitics.

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American alternative-rock band, the Killers, issued an apology following an incident at their recent show in Batumi, Georgia, a former Soviet Republic. During the performance, the band brought a Russian drummer on stage and referred to the audience as "brothers and sisters," a typical communist addressal, which elicited a negative response from the crowd.

American alternative-rock band, the Killers, issued an apology following an incident at their recent show in Batumi, Georgia, a former Soviet Republic. During the performance, the band brought a Russian drummer on stage and referred to the audience as "brothers and sisters," a typical communist addressal, which elicited a negative response from the crowd. The choice to invite a Russian musician on stage came at a sensitive time, given the ongoing tension between Georgia and Russia. The strained relationship has been exacerbated by Russia's offensive in Ukraine. The ongoing war, the reports say, has led to an influx of Russian migrants to Georgia. These reports have been denied by the Russian side from time to time. Clarification by The Killers In a statement posted on their Facebook page, the Killers expressed regret over any offense caused, clarifying that their intention was never to upset anyone. They cited a longstanding tradition of inviting individuals to participate in drumming on stage as the reason behind their decision to include the Russian drummer. Also read | Russia launches first probe to the Moon in almost 50 years The phrase "brothers and sisters" used by band leader Brandon Flowers was intended to convey a sense of unity, but it was unfortunately misinterpreted by the audience. Flowers had hoped to prevent any escalation of negative emotions, emphasising that he saw the concertgoers as part of a shared community. "We recognise that a comment, meant to suggest that all of the Killers’ audience and fans are ‘brothers and sisters,’ could be misconstrued," the statement added. Videos circulating on social media depicted disappointed fans leaving the venue and a chorus of boos directed at the band. This incident highlighted the deeply rooted pro-Ukrainian sentiment prevailing among the Georgian public. What does it mean? The Killers, a band that has achieved considerable success since its formation in Las Vegas during the early 2000s, acknowledged the potential for misinterpretation and emphasised their commitment to their music and fans. Also watch | First flight from Russia to Georgia since 2019 lands to protests × Despite the Grammy-nominated career of 'The Killers' and chart-topping hits, the incident in Georgia served as a reminder of the complex interplay between music, culture, and geopolitics. 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.

'The Killers' apologise after calling Georgia crowd 'brothers and sisters'

Sounding rather defeated,&nbsp;Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat has conceded that his country will not be able to operate the F-16&nbsp;fighter jets to defend itself from the Russian onslaught, at least this year.&nbsp;

Speaking on Wednesday night (August 16),&nbsp;Ihnat said his country had "big hopes" for the deployment of F-16s but it may not come to fruition.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It’s already obvious we won’t be able to defend Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets during this autumn and winter,"&nbsp;Ihnat told Ukrainian channels.&nbsp;

“We had big hopes for this plane, that it will become part of air defence, able to protect us from Russia’s missiles and drones terrorism,” he added.&nbsp;

Earlier this year,&nbsp;Ihnat had asserted that Kyiv needed "F-16s to become an integral part of its air defence".

"These fighters can engage aerial targets from both high and low altitudes. By utilising F-16s, our ground troops will be able to swiftly liberate occupied Ukrainian territories by targeting enemy command posts, military groups and logistics supply chains," he said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-focuses-on-upping-its-air-defence-systems-594853">WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine focuses on upping its air defence systems</a>

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<h2>Kyiv pressing for the jets&nbsp;</h2>

Kyiv has repeatedly called upon the Western bloc to supply the F-16 jets in its defence against the superior Russian jets. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been at the forefront of it as he openly discussed the proposition during his brief appearance at the&nbsp;G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan, earlier this year.&nbsp;

After much back-and-forth, US President Joe Biden endorsed a training programme&nbsp; for&nbsp;Ukrainian pilots on F-16s. However, up until now, no timing on the supply of the war planes has been given.&nbsp;

Even after announcing the training module, Biden said he had assurances from Zelensky that the jets will not be used in Russian territory.&nbsp;

"I have a flat assurance from Zelensky that they will not use it to go on and move onto Russian geographic territory, but wherever Russian troops are within Ukraine and the area, they would be able to do that," Biden told reporters at the time.&nbsp;

While Kyiv presses for the jets, Moscow has also repeatedly said that supplying the F-16s would carry "colossal risks".

“We see that Western countries are still adhering to the escalation scenario. It involves colossal risks for themselves," said Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-west-supplying-f-16-jets-to-ukraine-would-carry-colossal-risks-594646" target="_blank">ALSO READ | Russia says West's supply of F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry ‘colossal risks’</a>

“In any case, this will be taken into account in all our plans, and we have all the necessary means to achieve the goals we have set.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Sounding rather defeated, Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat has conceded that his country will not be able to operate the F-16 fighter jets to defend itself from the Russian onslaught, at least this year.

Sounding rather defeated, Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat has conceded that his country will not be able to operate the F-16 fighter jets to defend itself from the Russian onslaught, at least this year. Speaking on Wednesday night (August 16), Ihnat said his country had "big hopes" for the deployment of F-16s but it may not come to fruition. “It’s already obvious we won’t be able to defend Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets during this autumn and winter," Ihnat told Ukrainian channels. “We had big hopes for this plane, that it will become part of air defence, able to protect us from Russia’s missiles and drones terrorism,” he added. Earlier this year, Ihnat had asserted that Kyiv needed "F-16s to become an integral part of its air defence". "These fighters can engage aerial targets from both high and low altitudes. By utilising F-16s, our ground troops will be able to swiftly liberate occupied Ukrainian territories by targeting enemy command posts, military groups and logistics supply chains," he said. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine focuses on upping its air defence systems Kyiv pressing for the jets Kyiv has repeatedly called upon the Western bloc to supply the F-16 jets in its defence against the superior Russian jets. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been at the forefront of it as he openly discussed the proposition during his brief appearance at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan, earlier this year. After much back-and-forth, US President Joe Biden endorsed a training programme for Ukrainian pilots on F-16s. However, up until now, no timing on the supply of the war planes has been given. Even after announcing the training module, Biden said he had assurances from Zelensky that the jets will not be used in Russian territory. "I have a flat assurance from Zelensky that they will not use it to go on and move onto Russian geographic territory, but wherever Russian troops are within Ukraine and the area, they would be able to do that," Biden told reporters at the time. While Kyiv presses for the jets, Moscow has also repeatedly said that supplying the F-16s would carry "colossal risks". “We see that Western countries are still adhering to the escalation scenario. It involves colossal risks for themselves," said Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko. ALSO READ | Russia says West's supply of F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry ‘colossal risks’ “In any case, this will be taken into account in all our plans, and we have all the necessary means to achieve the goals we have set.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Kyiv sounds defeatist, says 'won't be able' to use F-16 fighter jets this year

Ukrainian fighters earlier detained by Russia from the battlefield have shared horrifying accounts of their experience while in Russia’s detention facility in southwestern Russia.

Interviewed by BBC, over a dozen ex-detainees have claimed they were frequently subjected to torture, a gross violation of international humanitarian laws.&nbsp;

However, BBC clarified that it was not able to independently verify the claims made by the former prisoners of war.

<h2>What are the allegations?</h2>

Quoted by BBC, the former detainees levelled grave allegations against Russian forces and guards at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility Number Two, in the city of Taganrog.

Men and women were frequently beaten. Russian guards would often hit in the kidneys and chest. Inspections would occur daily and detainees would be subjected to electric shocks.

Through violence, Russian forces would often force the detainees into giving false confessions, which Russia allegedly used as evidence in courts.

One of the captives quoted by BBC said they were often offered very little food and insufficient medical attention, which often led to the death of several inmates.

<h2>Russia’s attitude towards the allegations</h2>

BBC claimed Russia didn’t respond to the requests for comment; however, Moscow has denied such allegations in previous instances.

So far, the Russian authorities have not allowed any international body, including the UN and the International Committee of the Red Cross, to visit its detention facilities where Ukrainian fighters are kept.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia equipping submarines with hypersonic missiles

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It must be noted that Russia has so far released 2,500 Ukrainians as part of a prisoners exchange programme and up to 10,000 captives are still believed to remain in Russian custody.

<h2>Observation by the UN</h2>

In March this year, a statement released by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) mentioned that Moscow had "failed to ensure the humane treatment" of prisoners, with "strong patterns of violations".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/russia-commends-india-global-south-for-pursuing-realistic-solutions-in-ukraine-war-625998">Also read:&nbsp;Russia commends India, Global South for pursuing realistic solutions in Ukraine war</a>

Kris Janowski, a spokesman for the office, said there was a "long list of bad things that have been done" to the detainees at the facility in Taganrog. The fact that a prison was being used to hold captives was, in itself, a breach of international humanitarian law, he said, as they should be kept in specially designated places. Ukraine also faced some accusations of mistreatment of detainees, according to the March report; but, overall, they were "treated in better fashion".

<h2>Latest from the frontlines</h2>

Meanwhile, in the latest development from the frontlines, Ukraine on Wednesday (August 16) claimed it had recaptured the village of Urozhaine from Russian troops in the southeast and dug in on its outskirts.

Kyiv's Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar wrote on Telegram, "Urozhaine liberated." 
 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

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Ukrainian fighters earlier detained by Russia from the battlefield have shared horrifying accounts of their experience while in Russia’s detention facility in southwestern Russia.

Ukrainian fighters earlier detained by Russia from the battlefield have shared horrifying accounts of their experience while in Russia’s detention facility in southwestern Russia. Interviewed by BBC, over a dozen ex-detainees have claimed they were frequently subjected to torture, a gross violation of international humanitarian laws. However, BBC clarified that it was not able to independently verify the claims made by the former prisoners of war. What are the allegations? Quoted by BBC, the former detainees levelled grave allegations against Russian forces and guards at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility Number Two, in the city of Taganrog. Men and women were frequently beaten. Russian guards would often hit in the kidneys and chest. Inspections would occur daily and detainees would be subjected to electric shocks. Through violence, Russian forces would often force the detainees into giving false confessions, which Russia allegedly used as evidence in courts. One of the captives quoted by BBC said they were often offered very little food and insufficient medical attention, which often led to the death of several inmates. Russia’s attitude towards the allegations BBC claimed Russia didn’t respond to the requests for comment; however, Moscow has denied such allegations in previous instances. So far, the Russian authorities have not allowed any international body, including the UN and the International Committee of the Red Cross, to visit its detention facilities where Ukrainian fighters are kept. Watch: Russia equipping submarines with hypersonic missiles × It must be noted that Russia has so far released 2,500 Ukrainians as part of a prisoners exchange programme and up to 10,000 captives are still believed to remain in Russian custody. Observation by the UN In March this year, a statement released by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) mentioned that Moscow had "failed to ensure the humane treatment" of prisoners, with "strong patterns of violations". Also read: Russia commends India, Global South for pursuing realistic solutions in Ukraine war Kris Janowski, a spokesman for the office, said there was a "long list of bad things that have been done" to the detainees at the facility in Taganrog. The fact that a prison was being used to hold captives was, in itself, a breach of international humanitarian law, he said, as they should be kept in specially designated places. Ukraine also faced some accusations of mistreatment of detainees, according to the March report; but, overall, they were "treated in better fashion". Latest from the frontlines Meanwhile, in the latest development from the frontlines, Ukraine on Wednesday (August 16) claimed it had recaptured the village of Urozhaine from Russian troops in the southeast and dug in on its outskirts. Kyiv's Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar wrote on Telegram, "Urozhaine liberated." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Former Ukrainian captives claim they were brutally tortured by Russia

Odesa, the Ukrainian city on the Black Sea officially opened several beaches for public on Saturday (August 12) for the first time since the start of the Russian invasion. However, bathing is banned during air raid alerts. Odesa is Ukraine's largest port and naval base. It has in past, come under repeated attacks from Russian missiles and drones. The sea was littered with hundreds of thousands of sea mines.

For the safety of residents and after incidents of mines exploding on beaches, the coast was closed.

The city's civilian and military administrations took a joint decision to open beaches, according to Odesa Governor Oleh Kiper who wrote on Telegram app.

Kiper said the beaches would remain open from 8 am to 8 pm.

Reuters quoted Oleksandr, a lifeguard and a former diver, who said that anti-mine net was placed in between two piers to prevent swimmers encountering shallow-water mines.

"The net will stop them. And they (mines) will also be visible from the shore under such weather conditions. Emergency workers will be notified, they will come to handle it," he said.

The opening of the beaches has been a welcome respite from the war for people swimming and sunbathing.

"I have been dreaming of going to the beach and inhaling salty air. We have been missing it a lot. But safety is a top priority," said Svitlana, a resident of the Odesa region.

<h2>Russia claims downing 20 Ukrainian drones</h2>

Meanwhile, Russia said on Saturday that it had shot down 20 unmanned Ukrainian drones near the Crimean peninsula. The Russian defence ministry said on Telegram messaging service that 14 drones were downed by air defence systems and six more were shot down using electronic warfare.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypts-resistance-to-supply-weapons-to-ukraine-poses-challenge-for-biden-administration-report-624789">Egypt's resistance to supply weapons to Ukraine poses challenge for Biden administration: Report</a>

The ministry said that there were no casualties or damage.

Governor of Kaluga region, about 150 kilometres southwest of Moscow said that a drone was also intercepted in the region.&nbsp;

On Friday officials in Moscow said that they had destroyed a drone that was targetting the Russian capital. The attack was latest in series of attacks on Moscow in recent days.

In July, Ukrainian drone strikes on Crimea blew up an ammunition depot and damaged the bridge across the Kerch Strait linking the peninsula to Russia's mainland.

Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014.

In Ukraine, Russian attacks on Saturday killed a policeman and injured 12 other people in the southern Zaporizhzhia region.

A man was also killed in the Kharkiv region, according to local authorities.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Odesa, the Ukrainian city on the Black Sea officially opened several beaches for public on Saturday (August 12) for the first time since the start of the Russian invasion.

Odesa, the Ukrainian city on the Black Sea officially opened several beaches for public on Saturday (August 12) for the first time since the start of the Russian invasion. However, bathing is banned during air raid alerts. Odesa is Ukraine's largest port and naval base. It has in past, come under repeated attacks from Russian missiles and drones. The sea was littered with hundreds of thousands of sea mines. For the safety of residents and after incidents of mines exploding on beaches, the coast was closed. The city's civilian and military administrations took a joint decision to open beaches, according to Odesa Governor Oleh Kiper who wrote on Telegram app. Kiper said the beaches would remain open from 8 am to 8 pm. Reuters quoted Oleksandr, a lifeguard and a former diver, who said that anti-mine net was placed in between two piers to prevent swimmers encountering shallow-water mines. "The net will stop them. And they (mines) will also be visible from the shore under such weather conditions. Emergency workers will be notified, they will come to handle it," he said. The opening of the beaches has been a welcome respite from the war for people swimming and sunbathing. "I have been dreaming of going to the beach and inhaling salty air. We have been missing it a lot. But safety is a top priority," said Svitlana, a resident of the Odesa region. Russia claims downing 20 Ukrainian drones Meanwhile, Russia said on Saturday that it had shot down 20 unmanned Ukrainian drones near the Crimean peninsula. The Russian defence ministry said on Telegram messaging service that 14 drones were downed by air defence systems and six more were shot down using electronic warfare. Also Read | Egypt's resistance to supply weapons to Ukraine poses challenge for Biden administration: Report The ministry said that there were no casualties or damage. Governor of Kaluga region, about 150 kilometres southwest of Moscow said that a drone was also intercepted in the region. On Friday officials in Moscow said that they had destroyed a drone that was targetting the Russian capital. The attack was latest in series of attacks on Moscow in recent days. In July, Ukrainian drone strikes on Crimea blew up an ammunition depot and damaged the bridge across the Kerch Strait linking the peninsula to Russia's mainland. Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014. In Ukraine, Russian attacks on Saturday killed a policeman and injured 12 other people in the southern Zaporizhzhia region. A man was also killed in the Kharkiv region, according to local authorities. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine: Odesa opens beaches to public for first time since Russian invasion

Ukrainian shelling killed at least two people and injured two others in the Russian border region of Bryansk on Thursday (August 10). The governor of the region, Alexander Bogomaz, said earlier that one man had died but later announced another person was also killed.

"At present, two civilians have been killed by the Ukrainian armed forces," he said on social media. Reports have mentioned that the attack took place in the Russian village of Chausy, some five kilometres from the Ukrainian border.&nbsp;

This comes on the same day when Ukraine urged civilians near the northeastern front line to evacuate amid Russia's ramp-up of an assault to recapture the territory. The region was already once seized during the war, which started last year on February 24.&nbsp;

Kupiansk and the surrounding areas of Ukraine's Kharkiv region were liberated by Kyiv's forces last September, but Moscow has since pushed back on the region.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-west-getting-sobering-updates-on-ukrainian-counteroffensive-623572">Russia-Ukraine war: West getting 'sobering' updates on Ukrainian counteroffensive</a>&nbsp;

The city administration said, "Given the difficult security situation and the increasing amount of shelling by Russian terrorist forces in the Kupiansk community, you have the opportunity to evacuate to a safer place." The administration named 37 settlements wedged between the town and Russian lines.&nbsp;

It further noted that the residents could evacuate to Kharkiv, which is around 90 kilometres west, where they would have the option to move to safer regions.&nbsp;

Ukrainian officials say that substantial Russian reinforcements have turned the northern front in the eastern Kharkiv region into the "epicentre" of hostilities, but that Ukrainian defences are holding.

Ruslan Muzychuk, who is the National Guard spokesman, told Ukrainian television on Thursday that "the Kupiansk direction remains the epicentre of hostilities, where the enemy is concentrating its main efforts".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-11-ukrainian-drones-downed-near-crimea-two-more-heading-to-moscow-shot-624025">Russia claims 11 Ukrainian drones downed near Crimea, two more heading towards Moscow shot</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;At least two dead after Russian attack on Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia&nbsp;

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Muzychuk added, "The number of enemy forces and means and its recent activation in this area of the front are aimed at trying to turn the tide in this section of the front."&nbsp;

He further said that the Russians had brought in airborne assault units "and they have been reinforced by tank units, which, with the support of aviation and artillery, are attempting to assault the positions of Ukrainian defenders".&nbsp;

He said, "In recent weeks, more than 50 air attacks have been taking place every day, and sometimes more than 80."&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Ukrainian shelling killed at least two people and injured two others in the Russian border region of Bryansk on Thursday (August 10). The governor of the region, Alexander Bogomaz, said earlier that one man had died but later announced another person was also killed.

Ukrainian shelling killed at least two people and injured two others in the Russian border region of Bryansk on Thursday (August 10). The governor of the region, Alexander Bogomaz, said earlier that one man had died but later announced another person was also killed. "At present, two civilians have been killed by the Ukrainian armed forces," he said on social media. Reports have mentioned that the attack took place in the Russian village of Chausy, some five kilometres from the Ukrainian border. This comes on the same day when Ukraine urged civilians near the northeastern front line to evacuate amid Russia's ramp-up of an assault to recapture the territory. The region was already once seized during the war, which started last year on February 24. Kupiansk and the surrounding areas of Ukraine's Kharkiv region were liberated by Kyiv's forces last September, but Moscow has since pushed back on the region. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: West getting 'sobering' updates on Ukrainian counteroffensive The city administration said, "Given the difficult security situation and the increasing amount of shelling by Russian terrorist forces in the Kupiansk community, you have the opportunity to evacuate to a safer place." The administration named 37 settlements wedged between the town and Russian lines. It further noted that the residents could evacuate to Kharkiv, which is around 90 kilometres west, where they would have the option to move to safer regions. Ukrainian officials say that substantial Russian reinforcements have turned the northern front in the eastern Kharkiv region into the "epicentre" of hostilities, but that Ukrainian defences are holding. Ruslan Muzychuk, who is the National Guard spokesman, told Ukrainian television on Thursday that "the Kupiansk direction remains the epicentre of hostilities, where the enemy is concentrating its main efforts". Also read: Russia claims 11 Ukrainian drones downed near Crimea, two more heading towards Moscow shot Watch: At least two dead after Russian attack on Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia × Muzychuk added, "The number of enemy forces and means and its recent activation in this area of the front are aimed at trying to turn the tide in this section of the front." He further said that the Russians had brought in airborne assault units "and they have been reinforced by tank units, which, with the support of aviation and artillery, are attempting to assault the positions of Ukrainian defenders". He said, "In recent weeks, more than 50 air attacks have been taking place every day, and sometimes more than 80." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Two dead after shelling in Russian border region; northeast Ukraine town urges evacuations

More than 50 people were injured on Wednesday (August 9) in a Russian factory explosion near Moscow, the region's governor said.&nbsp;

The blast was reported at an optics and optical electronics factory. In a report by TASS, the emergency services said the blast appeared to have occurred in a warehouse containing pyrotechnic equipment. It had been reportedly rented by a pyrotechnics firm.

Officials in the city of Sergiyev Posad said that the blast occurred at a plant that produced optical equipment. The city is some 35 miles northeast of the capital.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-nine-dead-two-missing-after-holiday-lodging-fire-623863">France: At least nine dead in fire at holiday home for disabled people</a>&nbsp;

Moscow region governor Andrey Vorobyov said on state television: "Now, 52 people have sought medical help. Some have slight contusions from the blast wave, some just have burns."&nbsp;

BBC meanwhile reported&nbsp;Moscow's governor Vorobyov as saying on Telegram that six people were in intensive care.

Videos shared online showed a large plume of smoke billowing from the facility in the city of Sergiyev Posad.

The blast occurred on the grounds of a factory that Russian media has previously said manufactures military equipment like night vision goggles.

Videos and photos shared on social media showed massive plumes of smoke. A bright ball of flames burst on the horizon was also seen, which was followed by a shockwave that blew out windows from some buildings.&nbsp;

Vorobyov said he could not comment on the cause of the explosion but that it was being investigated.&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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Footage of an explosion in the Moscow region. 
 
The factory, by the way, makes scopes and binoculars for the russian army. Or used to make.. <a href="https://t.co/H1U2x9ZGdd">pic.twitter.com/H1U2x9ZGdd</a>
— Iuliia Mendel (@IuliiaMendel) <a href="https://twitter.com/IuliiaMendel/status/1689187840968552448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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One of Russia’s main military optics manufacturers, the Zagorski plant near Moscow, was rocked by a huge explosion that blew up out windows many street blocks away. Cause unknown, but the plant makes optics for missiles and aircraft, as well as night-vision goggles and scopes. <a href="https://t.co/llpblKKIlr">pic.twitter.com/llpblKKIlr</a>
— Yaroslav Trofimov (@yarotrof) <a href="https://twitter.com/yarotrof/status/1689197904185978880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Did Ukraine do it?&nbsp;</h2>

There were rumours on social media forums that the fire was caused by a Ukrainian drone.&nbsp;

But citing emergency services, TASS reported that the officials did not believe the blast had been caused by any Ukrainian drone attack — many of which have taken place in Moscow and the surrounding area in recent weeks and months.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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More than 50 people were injured on Wednesday (August 9) in a Russian factory explosion near Moscow, the region's governor said. The blast was reported at an optics and optical electronics factory.

More than 50 people were injured on Wednesday (August 9) in a Russian factory explosion near Moscow, the region's governor said. The blast was reported at an optics and optical electronics factory. In a report by TASS, the emergency services said the blast appeared to have occurred in a warehouse containing pyrotechnic equipment. It had been reportedly rented by a pyrotechnics firm. Officials in the city of Sergiyev Posad said that the blast occurred at a plant that produced optical equipment. The city is some 35 miles northeast of the capital. Also read: France: At least nine dead in fire at holiday home for disabled people Moscow region governor Andrey Vorobyov said on state television: "Now, 52 people have sought medical help. Some have slight contusions from the blast wave, some just have burns." BBC meanwhile reported Moscow's governor Vorobyov as saying on Telegram that six people were in intensive care. Videos shared online showed a large plume of smoke billowing from the facility in the city of Sergiyev Posad. The blast occurred on the grounds of a factory that Russian media has previously said manufactures military equipment like night vision goggles. Videos and photos shared on social media showed massive plumes of smoke. A bright ball of flames burst on the horizon was also seen, which was followed by a shockwave that blew out windows from some buildings. Vorobyov said he could not comment on the cause of the explosion but that it was being investigated. Watch this report: × Footage of an explosion in the Moscow region. The factory, by the way, makes scopes and binoculars for the russian army. Or used to make.. pic.twitter.com/H1U2x9ZGdd — Iuliia Mendel (@IuliiaMendel) August 9, 2023 × One of Russia’s main military optics manufacturers, the Zagorski plant near Moscow, was rocked by a huge explosion that blew up out windows many street blocks away. Cause unknown, but the plant makes optics for missiles and aircraft, as well as night-vision goggles and scopes. pic.twitter.com/llpblKKIlr — Yaroslav Trofimov (@yarotrof) August 9, 2023 × Did Ukraine do it? There were rumours on social media forums that the fire was caused by a Ukrainian drone. But citing emergency services, TASS reported that the officials did not believe the blast had been caused by any Ukrainian drone attack — many of which have taken place in Moscow and the surrounding area in recent weeks and months. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia: More than 50 injured in massive explosion in factory near Moscow

Russian-appointed officials in Crimea said that explosions were heard near the bridge which links the Russian mainland to the annexed region early on Saturday (August 5), stating that the blasts were related to a Ukrainian drone attack carried out on a Russian tanker. 
 
Russia's sea rescue service, which is present in the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk, stated that they had dispatched tugboats to assist the tanker, which suffered damages and was not able to operate on its own. 
 
"We can say that the tanker is damaged in the (Kerch) strait, only on the south side," the rescue centre was quoted as saying by Russia's Tass news agency. "They will deal with it now on whether to take it under tow or not. It is standing at anchor for the moment. The machine room suffered some damage, not too badly,” it added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-thwart-ukrainian-attacks-on-naval-base-in-black-sea-crimean-peninsula-622251">Russia claims it thwarted Ukrainian attacks on naval base in Black Sea, Crimean peninsula</a>

A Russian warship suffered serious damage in Ukraine's overnight naval drone attack on Russia's navy base at Novorossiysk. This marked the first time the Ukrainian navy tried to project its powers beyond the shores of the country. 
 
Russia-installed officials in Crimea, which was annexed by Moscow in 2014, stated that the latest explosions were not related to the bridge, which has twice come under attack in the 17-month-old Russian invasion of Ukraine. 
 
Ukraine, which rarely gives comments on attacks carried out on Russian targets, did not give any official statement on the incident. For some time, the officials halted the traffic on the bridge which was the third such stop imposed in the last 24 hours, but later resumed. 
 
"Once again, there was no direct attack on the Crimea bridge and there was no explosion in the immediate vicinity," said Oleg Kryuchkov, an adviser to the Russia-installed governor of Crimea, as quoted by Russian news agencies.

<h2>Shattered equipment and fixtures after explosions</h2>

Meanwhile, Ukraine's UNIAN news agency stated that three explosions were reported in the area. Pro-Russian officials and Ukrainian news reports in occupied parts of Ukraine stated that a tanker vessel, which was operating under a Russian flag and in the Kerch Strait and was identified as the SIG, was attacked by Ukrainian drones.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas | Ukraine War: Poland rushes troops to its border with Belarus | Is the war expanding?

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Russian-appointed official in Ukraine's southeastern region of Zaporizhzhia Vladimir Rogov shared an audio clip in which the vessel sent a request to tugboats for towing the tanker. Rogov, writing on the Telegram messaging app, shared pictures of what he said was shattered equipment and fixtures inside the vessels. 
 
He said that the ship was supplying oil to Russian troops in Syria. The bridge, which was completed by Russia in 2018, four years after the peninsula was annexed by Moscow from Ukraine, has been subjected to two major attacks since Russia invaded Ukraine, the most recent one occurred last month.
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos
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Russian-appointed officials in Crimea said that explosions were heard near the bridge which links the Russian mainland to the annexed region early on Saturday (August 5), stating that the blasts were related to a Ukrainian drone attack carried out on a Russian tanker.

Russian-appointed officials in Crimea said that explosions were heard near the bridge which links the Russian mainland to the annexed region early on Saturday (August 5), stating that the blasts were related to a Ukrainian drone attack carried out on a Russian tanker. Russia's sea rescue service, which is present in the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk, stated that they had dispatched tugboats to assist the tanker, which suffered damages and was not able to operate on its own. "We can say that the tanker is damaged in the (Kerch) strait, only on the south side," the rescue centre was quoted as saying by Russia's Tass news agency. "They will deal with it now on whether to take it under tow or not. It is standing at anchor for the moment. The machine room suffered some damage, not too badly,” it added. ALSO READ | Russia claims it thwarted Ukrainian attacks on naval base in Black Sea, Crimean peninsula A Russian warship suffered serious damage in Ukraine's overnight naval drone attack on Russia's navy base at Novorossiysk. This marked the first time the Ukrainian navy tried to project its powers beyond the shores of the country. Russia-installed officials in Crimea, which was annexed by Moscow in 2014, stated that the latest explosions were not related to the bridge, which has twice come under attack in the 17-month-old Russian invasion of Ukraine. Ukraine, which rarely gives comments on attacks carried out on Russian targets, did not give any official statement on the incident. For some time, the officials halted the traffic on the bridge which was the third such stop imposed in the last 24 hours, but later resumed. "Once again, there was no direct attack on the Crimea bridge and there was no explosion in the immediate vicinity," said Oleg Kryuchkov, an adviser to the Russia-installed governor of Crimea, as quoted by Russian news agencies. Shattered equipment and fixtures after explosions Meanwhile, Ukraine's UNIAN news agency stated that three explosions were reported in the area. Pro-Russian officials and Ukrainian news reports in occupied parts of Ukraine stated that a tanker vessel, which was operating under a Russian flag and in the Kerch Strait and was identified as the SIG, was attacked by Ukrainian drones. WATCH | Gravitas | Ukraine War: Poland rushes troops to its border with Belarus | Is the war expanding? Russian-appointed official in Ukraine's southeastern region of Zaporizhzhia Vladimir Rogov shared an audio clip in which the vessel sent a request to tugboats for towing the tanker. Rogov, writing on the Telegram messaging app, shared pictures of what he said was shattered equipment and fixtures inside the vessels. He said that the ship was supplying oil to Russian troops in Syria. The bridge, which was completed by Russia in 2018, four years after the peninsula was annexed by Moscow from Ukraine, has been subjected to two major attacks since Russia invaded Ukraine, the most recent one occurred last month. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explosions in Crimea, Russian tanker hit in Ukrainian drone attack, claim officials

An apartment block was hit by a Russian missile in the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Friday (July 29) in which nine people, including two children, were injured, said Kyiv officials. 
 
"Dnipro. Another terrorist attack," stated Sergiy Kruk, head of the Ukrainian State Emergency Service, on Telegram. "Currently, we know of 9 injured, including two children. Work continues,” he added. Earlier, Internal Affairs Minister Igor Klymenko reported "a Russian strike on a multistorey building in Dnipro", stating five people suffered injuries. 
 
Regional governor Serhiy Lysak, taking to the Telegram messaging app, said that the injured were being treated at home. Dnipro Mayor Borys Filatov said that this was the third time the SBU security service building was targeted by Russia. The two buildings were empty - the residential building had no one inside it because it just got completed and units were being put up for sale.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-forces-advance-southward-claim-they-have-recaptured-strategic-village-from-russians-620093">Ukrainian forces advance southward, claim they have recaptured strategic village from Russians</a>

"There were two hits in Dnipro at about 8.30 p.m. (1730 GMT), Iskander missiles, according to preliminary information," said Lysak, while speaking on national television. "Part of the apartment building was destroyed. It was not even yet in use and there weren't many people there. A few people were trapped but are now out. The security service building is partially destroyed,” he added.

<h2>'Russian missile terror again'</h2>

In the videos shared on social media, smoke was seen billowing from the residential building's top floors, which were&nbsp;badly damaged. President Volodymyr Zelensky said, "Dnipro. Friday evening. A high-rise building and the Security Service of Ukraine's building were hit. Russian missile terror again". 
 
"All necessary services are on site... We keep the situation under control. We will do everything to bring Russia to full punishment for aggression and terror against our people,” he added. 
 
On Friday, Russia said that two Ukrainian missiles were intercepted over its southern Rostov region, which was bordering Ukraine. It stated that the falling debris had wounded at least a dozen people in the city of Taganrog.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia is preparing to unleash an ‘avalanche’ of FPV Kamikaze drones on Ukraine

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Russian regions, which are located on the border with Ukraine, witness regular drone strikes and shelling since the military campaign was launched by Moscow in February last year but they have rarely been targeted by missiles.

<h2>Kyiv using North Korean rockets to attack Russian forces</h2>

According to a report published by the Financial Times on Saturday (July 29), Ukrainian soldiers have been observed using North Korean rockets which they claim were seized by a "friendly" country and then delivered to Ukraine. 
 
The defence ministry of Ukraine suggested that the arms were seized from the Russians, said the newspaper. North Korea has been accused by the United States of providing arms to Russia, which includes alleged shipments by sea, but no proof has so far emerged and no weapons of North Korea have been widely observed on the battlefields in Ukraine. 
 
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. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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An apartment block was hit by a Russian missile in the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Friday (July 29) in which nine people, including two children, were injured, said Kyiv officials.

An apartment block was hit by a Russian missile in the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Friday (July 29) in which nine people, including two children, were injured, said Kyiv officials. "Dnipro. Another terrorist attack," stated Sergiy Kruk, head of the Ukrainian State Emergency Service, on Telegram. "Currently, we know of 9 injured, including two children. Work continues,” he added. Earlier, Internal Affairs Minister Igor Klymenko reported "a Russian strike on a multistorey building in Dnipro", stating five people suffered injuries. Regional governor Serhiy Lysak, taking to the Telegram messaging app, said that the injured were being treated at home. Dnipro Mayor Borys Filatov said that this was the third time the SBU security service building was targeted by Russia. The two buildings were empty - the residential building had no one inside it because it just got completed and units were being put up for sale. ALSO READ | Ukrainian forces advance southward, claim they have recaptured strategic village from Russians "There were two hits in Dnipro at about 8.30 p.m. (1730 GMT), Iskander missiles, according to preliminary information," said Lysak, while speaking on national television. "Part of the apartment building was destroyed. It was not even yet in use and there weren't many people there. A few people were trapped but are now out. The security service building is partially destroyed,” he added. 'Russian missile terror again' In the videos shared on social media, smoke was seen billowing from the residential building's top floors, which were badly damaged. President Volodymyr Zelensky said, "Dnipro. Friday evening. A high-rise building and the Security Service of Ukraine's building were hit. Russian missile terror again". "All necessary services are on site... We keep the situation under control. We will do everything to bring Russia to full punishment for aggression and terror against our people,” he added. On Friday, Russia said that two Ukrainian missiles were intercepted over its southern Rostov region, which was bordering Ukraine. It stated that the falling debris had wounded at least a dozen people in the city of Taganrog. WATCH | Russia is preparing to unleash an ‘avalanche’ of FPV Kamikaze drones on Ukraine Russian regions, which are located on the border with Ukraine, witness regular drone strikes and shelling since the military campaign was launched by Moscow in February last year but they have rarely been targeted by missiles. Kyiv using North Korean rockets to attack Russian forces According to a report published by the Financial Times on Saturday (July 29), Ukrainian soldiers have been observed using North Korean rockets which they claim were seized by a "friendly" country and then delivered to Ukraine. The defence ministry of Ukraine suggested that the arms were seized from the Russians, said the newspaper. North Korea has been accused by the United States of providing arms to Russia, which includes alleged shipments by sea, but no proof has so far emerged and no weapons of North Korea have been widely observed on the battlefields in Ukraine. 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. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia strikes Dnipro amid reports of Ukraine using North Korean rockets

A Romanian ship was damaged during Russian attacks on the Ukrainian port of Reni on the River Danube on Monday, according to media reports on Tuesday (July 25). The representatives of the consular office from Ukraine said that the ship sustained minor damages and continued its journey.

A Romanian ship was damaged during Russian attacks on the Ukrainian port of Reni on the River Danube on Monday, according to media reports on Tuesday (July 25). The representatives of the consular office from Ukraine said that the ship sustained minor damages and continued its journey. A report by news.ro said that Russia launched drone attacks in Reni on Sunday night, targeting warehouses. The attacks destroyed a grain depot and damaged several storage facilities, a report by Ukrainska Pravada said. Oleh Kiper, head of the Odesa Oblast Military Administration, said that six workers were injured of which four had to be hospitalised. Meanwhile, no Romanian citizens were injured. Romanian President Klaus Iohannis said that the fresh attacks by Russia posed a serious threat to security in the Black Sea. Russia launches new drone strikes on Kyiv On Tuesday, Russia launched new drone strikes on Kyiv and parts of central and northern Ukraine. Serhiy Popko, head of the Kyiv military administration, said that Russia used Iranian-made Shahed drones to attack Kyiv for the sixth time this month, but all were shot down. There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties. Air sirens blared for over three hours over the Kyiv region, a report by the news agency Reuters said. Regional officials said an unidentified infrastructure object was hit in the northern region of Zhytomyr, two drones came down in fields and one in an empty hangar in the central region of Cherkasy, and one drone was shot down in each of the central Poltava and northern Sumy regions. Ukrainian MP arrested for suspected collaboration with Moscow Ukrainian member of parliament Oleksandr Ponomaryov was arrested on Tuesday for suspected collaboration with Russia. Ponomaryov was taken into custody pending trial on treason allegations, according to the prosecutor general's office. In a statement, the Security Service of Ukraine said that Ponomaryov had "willingly collaborated" with Russia when he was in the occupied part of the Zaporizhzhia region. The MP has denied collaborating with Russia in the past. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine war: Romanian ship damaged during Russian attacks on Reni port, say reports

Russian special forces on Saturday (July 22) killed a man who broke into a private house in the suburbs of Moscow and fired at them. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the assailant was spotted by guards after he broke into an unoccupied house located in an elite village in Istra, about 45 kilometres west of Moscow.

Russian special forces on Saturday (July 22) killed a man who broke into a private house in the suburbs of Moscow and fired at them. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the assailant was spotted by guards after he broke into an unoccupied house located in an elite village in Istra, about 45 kilometres west of Moscow. When two guards and a police officer entered the residence, the man, who was heavily armed, held them at gunpoint. The negotiations with the attacker lasted for hours. The man claimed he came from the front lines in Ukraine and was driven by God to march on the Kremlin. He refused to surrender, fired at special forces and was killed when they stormed the house. Who is the attacker? According to Russian lawmaker Alexander Khinshtein, the attacker was identified as Vyacheslav Chernenko, a 35-year-old resident of the Siberian city of Krasnoyarsk. It is not yet clear if Chernenko fought in the Ukraine war. Istra administrator, meanwhile, said the attacker was mentally unstable. Who was the owner of the residence? As per the report, the residence that Chernenko broke into belonged to Viktor Yanukovych, the former Moscow-friendly president of Ukraine. It had been put up for sale by its current owner, who was overseas when the incident happened. Putin meets Lukashenko In other news from the Ukraine war, Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted his Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko for talks in St Petersburg on Sunday. Putin said that Ukraine's counteroffensive had failed. "There is no counteroffensive," Russian news agencies quoted Lukashenko as saying. To this, Putin replied, "It exists, but it has failed." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Moscow: Russian special forces kill gunman who claimed he fought in Ukraine

Ukrainian forces on Sunday (July 9) pressed on with their campaign to recapture Russian-held areas in the southeast. Russian accounts said that heavy fighting gripped areas outside the city of Bakhmut.

Ukrainian forces on Sunday (July 9) pressed on with their campaign to recapture Russian-held areas in the southeast. Russian accounts said that heavy fighting gripped areas outside the city of Bakhmut. Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov said one of his units was deployed in the area. Taking to Telegram, Ukrainian Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said that heavy fighting raged in two areas of the southeast. "We are consolidating our gains in those areas," Maliar said. She added that Russian troops were defending Bakhmut while Ukrainian forces registered "a certain advance" on the city's southern flank. Ukraine has launched a counteroffensive which is so far focusing on capturing a cluster of villages in the southwest and also retaking areas around Bakhmut. Reuters reported that there were no changes in position to the north of Bakhmut and Ukrainian forces remained engaged in fighting west of the city and near Lyman, further north in Donetsk. 'We are advancing, not stuck': Zelensky In an interview with ABC News on Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged that Ukraine's advances were slower than what he and his generals had wanted, but said the country's forces held the initiative. Also read | Biden says Ukraine not ready for NATO membership in the middle of war "All of us, we want to do it faster because every day means new losses of Ukrainians. We are advancing. We are not stuck," President Zelensky said. "We would all love to see the counteroffensive accomplished in a shorter period of time. But there is reality. Today, the initiative is on our side," he added. The Ukrainian president also noted that the military overcame a kind of stagnation in previous months. Four killed, 11 injured in Russian strikes in Zaporizhzhia Meanwhile, four people were killed and 11 others injured in Russian strikes in Zaporizhzhia town, the local governor said on Monday, adding the strike happened when the distribution of humanitarian aid was taking place. Governor Yuriy Malashko said those killed included three women and a man, all in their 40s. He added that Russia carried out 36 targeted strikes on 10 settlements of the Zaporizhzhia region. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukrainian forces advance in south; four killed in Russian strikes in Zaporizhzhia

Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo said on Monday (June 5) that his government will ask war-torn Ukraine about reports that weapons made in Belgium were used by Kyiv to fight Russian troops inside Russia's western border.

Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo said on Monday (June 5) that his government will ask war-torn Ukraine about reports that weapons made in Belgium were used by Kyiv to fight Russian troops inside Russia's western border. Speaking to Radio 1, Prime Minister De Croo said the Belgian Defence Ministry and its intelligence agencies "have started an investigation and are asking for information to determine what has happened exactly". "European weapons are delivered to Ukraine under the condition that they are used on Ukrainian territory with the purpose of defending that territory. And we have strict controls in place to see that this is the case," he added. ALSO READ | Zelensky's counteroffensive crashing? Russia says it killed hundreds of Ukrainian troops in Donetsk region The prime minister refused to comment on the consequences if the reports were true. "We must not get ahead of ourselves here. But we are analysing the situation and we would take this very seriously," he told the radio station. De Croo's remarks come after The Washington Post reported last Saturday (June 3) that anti-Kremlin fighters who launched a cross-border attack from Ukraine into the Russian Belgorod region in May used tactical vehicles originally given to Ukraine by the United States and Poland and carried rifles made in Belgium and the Czech Republic. The report said that three of the Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles taken into Russia by the fighters were provided by the United States and the fourth was from Poland. Belgium announces more aid for Ukraine Last month, Belgium announced a new package of aid for Ukraine worth $108 million, funded by taxes on the interest earned by frozen Russian assets. This assistance took the total amount of military and humanitarian aid the country has sent to Ukraine since the start of the invasion to 300 million euros ($320mn). According to an official statement on May 12, half of this package would be made up of armoured vehicles, weapons, and ammunition and the rest will be humanitarian aid. Belgium is one of the European Union (EU) countries that has frozen the most Russian assets under sanctions imposed on Moscow. Prime Minister De Croo's office earlier said that Russian Central Bank assets worth approximately $192 billion (180 billion euros) were frozen in Belgium. The government generated some 625 million euros ($668mn) in taxes on the interest garnered by the Russian financial assets frozen in the country, the office added. 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 war: Belgium to probe whether its weapons were used in Russia

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. Russia's FSB security service said on Thursday (May 25) that two Ukrainians had been arrested for allegedly planning to target nuclear power plants in the country, news agency AFP reported, citing Russian news agencies. In a statement, the FSB was quoted as saying that a sabotage group from the Ukrainian foreign intelligence service tried to blow up some 30 power lines of nuclear power plants in Leningrad and Kalinin in early May to stop the nuclear reactors from working. The statement said that the aim was to cause serious economic harm to Russia and damage its reputation. The Ukrainian men brought down "a pylon carrying a high voltage line and planted mines in four pylons carrying high voltage lines from the Leningrad nuclear power station". The statement also said that explosives were planted near seven similar pylons linked to the Kalinin nuclear plan. The FSB is now looking for a third man of Ukrainian-Russian nationality. The security service also said 36.5 kg of explosives and about 60 detonators were found in the homes of the suspects and their alleged accomplices, the statement added. Two Russians who helped these Ukrainians were arrested. Further details are awaited. Thursday's development comes amid the nuclear threat posed by Russia since the beginning of the war in February 2022. In March this year, US intelligence suggested that Russian President Vladimir Putin could use nuclear weapons to end the Ukraine war. Russia's warning on Western arms for Ukraine Two days back, Russia's deputy head of the Security Council, Dmitry Medvedev, warned that the more destructive the weapons the West supplied to Ukraine, the higher the risk of a nuclear apocalypse. Medvedev pointed out that the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) did not appear to be taking the possibility of nuclear conflict seriously. "They are wrong. And at some point, events can move in a completely unpredictable scenario. And the responsibility will lie entirely with the North Atlantic Alliance," he told news agency RIA on Tuesday. Russia, which has more nuclear weapons than any other country, has repeatedly said the West is engaged in a proxy war with Moscow over Ukraine that could escalate into a much bigger conflict. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine war: Russia arrests Ukrainians allegedly planning nuclear plant strikes, say reports

The Ukrainian military has said that a four-rotor commercial drone that sells over the counter for $300 can be modified to carry explosives that will destroy Russian tanks.

The Ukrainian military has said that a four-rotor commercial drone that sells over the counter for $300 can be modified to carry explosives that will destroy Russian tanks. Speaking to the news agency Reuters on Tuesday (May 16), a Ukrainian soldier, who uses the call sign Kakrurt, said, "Our team has done it many times. We have destroyed enemy tanks, heavy military equipment, personnel. It's a very effective gadget." Kakurt, who was earlier working as an IT programmer, fights for Ukraine's 35th Marine Brigade, which modifies commercially-available drones and uses them to attack Russian forces. Reuters reported that the brigade shared visuals of these drones flying into what they said were Russian trenches before detonating. ALSO READ | Putin eases citizenship process for foreigners fighting for Russia in Ukraine The brigade showed off small commercial drones with four rotors that buzzed around as they were flown by soldiers using handsets. Ukraine invested hugely in drone technology Kakrurt also told Reuters on Tuesday that Ukraine has invested hugely in drone technology, adding, "It's better to make effective use of technical resources instead of people. That's why the Ukrainian Armed Forces are developing very, very quickly in this direction." Earlier, the Ukrainian government said it was expanding its drone programme for both reconnaissance and attacking enemy targets to narrow the gap between its military capabilities and those of Russia. ALSO READ | Putin eases citizenship process for foreigners fighting for Russia in Ukraine Another soldier, with the call sign Reshik, predicted that Kyiv would make broad use of drones that fly to their target before detonating when it starts its counter-offensive in the coming weeks. "Kamikaze drones will play a huge role in the counteroffensive in attacking trenches where the enemy seeks shelter and in killing the enemy," Reshik said. "Our Mavic (type of drone) is in the air, we see a tank driving, we fit the armour-piercing explosive to this part and let it fly. When we see infantry we fit the drone with shrapnel explosives and we fly it. If it is a building, we also fit it with shrapnel explosive and we fly inside the building," he added. Shot down six Russian hypersonic missiles: Ukraine Ukraine claimed on Tuesday that it shot down six Russian Kinzhal missiles in a single night. In a statement, the defence ministry said, "A high-precision strike by the hypersonic Kinzhal missile hit a US-made Patriot anti-aircraft missile system in the city of Kyiv." The Kinzhal missiles have been touted by Russia as a next-generation hypersonic missile. When asked about Ukraine's claim, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu dismissed it. But his ministry said that a Kinzhal missile destroyed U.S.-built Patriot surface-to-air missile defence system. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine war: Kyiv modifies commercial drones to attack Russian forces

Twenty-year-old Olesya Krivtsova has been placed under house arrest with an electronic tag on her leg. Krivtsova was charged with justifying terrorism and discrediting the Russian military, and faces up to 10 years in prison along with being added to the government's list of terrorists and extremists.

Twenty-year-old Olesya Krivtsova has been placed under house arrest with an electronic tag on her leg. Krivtsova was charged with justifying terrorism and discrediting the Russian military, and faces up to 10 years in prison along with being added to the government's list of terrorists and extremists. Her alleged crime?- criticising Russia's special military operation in Ukraine which will soon mark one year. Krivtsova, a student at the Northern Federal University, was apprehended for anti-war posts on social media including one related to the explosion on the bridge linking Russia to annexed Crimea in October last year. Under house arrest, she is banned from talking on the phone and going online. Speaking to the BBC on Tuesday (February 14), Krivtsova said, "I posted an Instagram story about the bridge, reflecting on how Ukrainians were happy with what had happened." She added she also shared a friend's post about the war. The drama unfolds Recalling her detention, Olesya Krivtsova told BBC that she was talking on the phone with her mother when she heard the front door opening and police officials storming in. "They (the police) took away my phone and shouted at me to lie on the floor," she said. "I never imagined anyone could get such a long prison sentence for posting something on the internet," the 20-year-old said and pointed out she had seen reports of crazy verdicts in Russia, but never paid much attention and continued to speak out (on the Ukraine war). ALSO READ | NATO chief urges member nations to ramp up ammunition production for Ukraine "When I realised I'd been put on the same list as school shooters and the Islamic State group I thought it was crazy," Kristova further said. On her right leg, she has a tattoo of President Vladimir Putin on a spider's body which says, "Big Brother is watching you." Students discuss whether to denounce her to authorities Krivtsova said that a friend "showed me a post about me in a chat," regarding how she was against the war in Ukraine. She added that most of the students in this chat were history students who were discussing whether to denounce her to authorities. As per the BBC report, which has seen extracts from the group chat, Krivtsova in one comment, was accused of "provocative posts of a defeatist and extremist character. This is out of place for war-time. It must be nipped in the bud". "First let's try to discredit her. If she doesn't get it, let the security services deal with it," it added. The Northern Federal University student recognised the names of students from the chat when the list of prosecution witnesses was read out in court. Moscow expects total support for its operation in Ukraine Olesya Krivtsova's case is not the first time that Russians condemning the war in Ukraine faced severe consequences. The BBC report on Tuesday said that public criticism of the special military operation- which also includes reposting other people's criticism - was dangerous. The report added that authorities expected total unflinching support for the offensive in Ukraine, and Russians who don't remain silent face laws for punishing dissent. 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.

Russian student under house arrest for cricitising Ukraine war. Here's what she says

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (February 14) called for faster military aid as Russian troops said they broke through two fortified lines of Ukrainian defences on the eastern front. In his evening address on Tuesday, Zelensky said that Russia was in a hurry to achieve as much as it can with its latest push before Kyiv and its allies gathered strength. "That is why speed is of the essence. Speed in everything - adopting decisions, carrying out decisions, shipping supplies, training. Speed saves people's lives," Zelensky added, news agency Reuters reported on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian president pointed out that the situation in the frontline, especially in the regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, remained very difficult. "The battles are literally for every foot of Ukrainian land," Zelensky told citizens on Tuesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-student-under-house-arrest-for-cricitising-ukraine-war-heres-what-she-says-562149">Russian student under house arrest for cricitising Ukraine war. Here's what she says</a>

Russia's defence ministry said that Ukrainian troops retreated in the face of Russian attacks in Luhansk. Taking to Telegram, the ministry said, "During the offensive ... the Ukrainian troops randomly retreated to a distance of up to 3 km (1.9 miles) from the previously occupied lines. Even the more fortified second line of defence of the enemy could not hold the breakthrough of the Russian military."

In recent weeks, the Kremlin intensified attacks across a swathe of southern and eastern Ukraine, and a major new offensive has been widely anticipated. The Reuters report on Wednesday said that Moscow's main effort has been&nbsp;focused on Bakhmut in Donetsk province adjacent to Luhansk.

Capturing Bakhmut would act as a stepping stone for Russia to advance on Kramatorsk and Sloviansk cities in Donetsk. Oleh Zhdanov, a Ukrainian military analyst, said there was fighting "around every single house" in Bakhmut, adding the situation remained extremely difficult.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian government said that it was using shells faster than the West could make them, adding, it needed fighter jets and long-range missiles to counter the Russian offensive and recapture lost territory. Earlier, the United States and NATO pledged that Western support would not falter in the face of a looming Moscow offensive.&nbsp;

"Ukraine has urgent requirements to help it meet this crucial moment in the course of the war. We believe there'll be a window of opportunity for them to exercise initiative," US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said. Meanwhile, German Defence Minister &nbsp;Boris Pistorius said that supplying Kyiv with fighter jets would certainly be discussed but that it was not a focus at the moment. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (February 14) called for faster military aid as Russian troops said they broke through two fortified lines of Ukrainian defences on the eastern front.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (February 14) called for faster military aid as Russian troops said they broke through two fortified lines of Ukrainian defences on the eastern front. In his evening address on Tuesday, Zelensky said that Russia was in a hurry to achieve as much as it can with its latest push before Kyiv and its allies gathered strength. "That is why speed is of the essence. Speed in everything - adopting decisions, carrying out decisions, shipping supplies, training. Speed saves people's lives," Zelensky added, news agency Reuters reported on Wednesday. The Ukrainian president pointed out that the situation in the frontline, especially in the regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, remained very difficult. "The battles are literally for every foot of Ukrainian land," Zelensky told citizens on Tuesday. ALSO READ | Russian student under house arrest for cricitising Ukraine war. Here's what she says Russia's defence ministry said that Ukrainian troops retreated in the face of Russian attacks in Luhansk. Taking to Telegram, the ministry said, "During the offensive ... the Ukrainian troops randomly retreated to a distance of up to 3 km (1.9 miles) from the previously occupied lines. Even the more fortified second line of defence of the enemy could not hold the breakthrough of the Russian military." In recent weeks, the Kremlin intensified attacks across a swathe of southern and eastern Ukraine, and a major new offensive has been widely anticipated. The Reuters report on Wednesday said that Moscow's main effort has been focused on Bakhmut in Donetsk province adjacent to Luhansk. Capturing Bakhmut would act as a stepping stone for Russia to advance on Kramatorsk and Sloviansk cities in Donetsk. Oleh Zhdanov, a Ukrainian military analyst, said there was fighting "around every single house" in Bakhmut, adding the situation remained extremely difficult. The Ukrainian government said that it was using shells faster than the West could make them, adding, it needed fighter jets and long-range missiles to counter the Russian offensive and recapture lost territory. Earlier, the United States and NATO pledged that Western support would not falter in the face of a looming Moscow offensive. "Ukraine has urgent requirements to help it meet this crucial moment in the course of the war. We believe there'll be a window of opportunity for them to exercise initiative," US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said. Meanwhile, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said that supplying Kyiv with fighter jets would certainly be discussed but that it was not a focus at the moment. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine war: President Zelensky calls for faster military aid, says situation in east very difficult

Ukraine war: President Zelensky calls for faster military aid, says situation in east difficult

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked a senior security figure on Saturday (February 11), stating that his drive to clean up the government would continue.&nbsp;Amid the ongoing war, Ukrainian authorities have dismissed dozens of officials in recent weeks and investigations have also been opened in several cases as part of a widespread drive against corruption and wrongdoing.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to a brief decree issued by the presidential office, Zelensky dismissed Ruslan Dziuba as deputy commander of the National Guard. However, the Ukrainian president didn't give any reasons for the action.&nbsp;

On one side, Zelensky has lobbied allies to supply modern weapons to tackle Russian forces, and on the other, he has stressed the need for the defence ministry in particular to be cleaned up.&nbsp;

He did not specifically mention Dziuba in his daily video address, but it can be seen as a move towards realising his aim to join the European Union as the EU says addressing corruption is a requirement for Ukraine to join the 27-member bloc.&nbsp;

Referring to the crackdown, he said: "All this activity is not just about certain episodes or criminal proceedings...the state will continue to modernise the institutions themselves. The purity of the work of state structures must be guaranteed."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia's progress MS-21 Cargo ship faces depressurization&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, Kyiv's top military commander said on Saturday that Ukraine's forces hold defence along the frontline in Donetsk, including the town of Bakhmut. In the past few weeks, fighting has been raging on for the cities of Vuhledar and Maryinka.&nbsp;

Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, who is the commander-in-chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces, said Russia carries out some 50 attacks daily in Donetsk.&nbsp;

In a Telegram message, Zaluzhnyi said: "Fierce fighting continues in the area of Vuhledar and Maryinka. We reliably hold the defence. In some areas of the front, we have managed to regain previously lost positions and gained a foothold."&nbsp;

His comments came after a call with US General Mark Milley.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked a senior security figure on Saturday (February 11), stating that his drive to clean up the government would continue.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked a senior security figure on Saturday (February 11), stating that his drive to clean up the government would continue. Amid the ongoing war, Ukrainian authorities have dismissed dozens of officials in recent weeks and investigations have also been opened in several cases as part of a widespread drive against corruption and wrongdoing. According to a brief decree issued by the presidential office, Zelensky dismissed Ruslan Dziuba as deputy commander of the National Guard. However, the Ukrainian president didn't give any reasons for the action. On one side, Zelensky has lobbied allies to supply modern weapons to tackle Russian forces, and on the other, he has stressed the need for the defence ministry in particular to be cleaned up. He did not specifically mention Dziuba in his daily video address, but it can be seen as a move towards realising his aim to join the European Union as the EU says addressing corruption is a requirement for Ukraine to join the 27-member bloc. Referring to the crackdown, he said: "All this activity is not just about certain episodes or criminal proceedings...the state will continue to modernise the institutions themselves. The purity of the work of state structures must be guaranteed." WATCH | Russia's progress MS-21 Cargo ship faces depressurization × Meanwhile, Kyiv's top military commander said on Saturday that Ukraine's forces hold defence along the frontline in Donetsk, including the town of Bakhmut. In the past few weeks, fighting has been raging on for the cities of Vuhledar and Maryinka. Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, who is the commander-in-chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces, said Russia carries out some 50 attacks daily in Donetsk. In a Telegram message, Zaluzhnyi said: "Fierce fighting continues in the area of Vuhledar and Maryinka. We reliably hold the defence. In some areas of the front, we have managed to regain previously lost positions and gained a foothold." His comments came after a call with US General Mark Milley. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine's Zelensky sacks top official as the clean-up drive continues amid war

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday vowed to defeat Ukraine and emerge victorious in the ongoing war. The West is certainly looking at this as a renewed Russian tempo in its fight against Kyiv.&nbsp;Russia has also warned of an "extremely dangerous" escalation in case NATO continues to arm Ukraine with deadly missiles and lethal battle tanks.

US and European allies, though reluctant for some time, now seem to be again defiant in their pursuit to back Ukraine with more powerful weaponry so Kyiv can reclaim the territories it lost last year.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrat-ilhan-omar-ousted-from-house-foreign-affairs-committee-for-her-anti-semitic-comments-558401">Democrat Ilhan Omar ousted from House Foreign Affairs Committee for her anti-Semitic comments</a>

US had been extending defence aid to Ukraine while imposing harsh sanctions on Russia. German government also approved the delivery of Leopard 1 tanks to Ukraine from its industrial stocks and their delivery could happen anytime soon, Munich newspaper Sueddeutsche Zeitung reported on Friday.&nbsp;

German automotive and arms manufacturer Rheinmetall and military technology group Flensburger Fahrzeugbau Gesellschaft (FFG) have also expressed their willingness saying if Kyiv is ready, they can recondition the Leopard tanks and send them to Ukraine.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-parliament-lifts-waives-immunity-from-prosecution-of-two-lawmakers-in-graft-probe-558350">EU Parliament waives immunity from prosecution of two lawmakers in bribery scam probe</a>

Meanwhile, Berlin is also in talks over purchasing back 15 Gepard tanks from Qatar, which the country purchased to secure World Cup Stadiums, to send to Kyiv.&nbsp;In a statement, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said, "The Gepards have proven themselves very well in the war in Ukraine. If we could get more from partners here, that would definitely help the Ukrainians."&nbsp;

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Ahead of the 24th summit of the European Union and Ukrainian leaders that is due to begin in Kyiv, the US agreed to send longer-range bombs to Ukraine to strengthen Ukraine's offensive.&nbsp;These ground-launched small-diameter bombs are part of a $2.17 billion aid package which is expected to be announced on Friday.

Moreover, the UK defence minister on Thursday also said that he did not rule out supplying Ukraine with fighter jets while cautioning they would not be a "magic wand" in the war.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday vowed to defeat Ukraine and emerge victorious in the ongoing war. The West is certainly looking at this as a renewed Russian tempo in its fight against Kyiv.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday vowed to defeat Ukraine and emerge victorious in the ongoing war. The West is certainly looking at this as a renewed Russian tempo in its fight against Kyiv. Russia has also warned of an "extremely dangerous" escalation in case NATO continues to arm Ukraine with deadly missiles and lethal battle tanks. US and European allies, though reluctant for some time, now seem to be again defiant in their pursuit to back Ukraine with more powerful weaponry so Kyiv can reclaim the territories it lost last year. Also Read | Democrat Ilhan Omar ousted from House Foreign Affairs Committee for her anti-Semitic comments US had been extending defence aid to Ukraine while imposing harsh sanctions on Russia. German government also approved the delivery of Leopard 1 tanks to Ukraine from its industrial stocks and their delivery could happen anytime soon, Munich newspaper Sueddeutsche Zeitung reported on Friday. German automotive and arms manufacturer Rheinmetall and military technology group Flensburger Fahrzeugbau Gesellschaft (FFG) have also expressed their willingness saying if Kyiv is ready, they can recondition the Leopard tanks and send them to Ukraine. Also Read | EU Parliament waives immunity from prosecution of two lawmakers in bribery scam probe Meanwhile, Berlin is also in talks over purchasing back 15 Gepard tanks from Qatar, which the country purchased to secure World Cup Stadiums, to send to Kyiv. In a statement, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said, "The Gepards have proven themselves very well in the war in Ukraine. If we could get more from partners here, that would definitely help the Ukrainians." Watch | Will 'Operation Miracle' save the ocean's rarest marine mammal? Ahead of the 24th summit of the European Union and Ukrainian leaders that is due to begin in Kyiv, the US agreed to send longer-range bombs to Ukraine to strengthen Ukraine's offensive. These ground-launched small-diameter bombs are part of a $2.17 billion aid package which is expected to be announced on Friday. Moreover, the UK defence minister on Thursday also said that he did not rule out supplying Ukraine with fighter jets while cautioning they would not be a "magic wand" in the war. 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.

From Leopard tanks to longer-range bombs, NATO scrambles to arm Ukraine

The war in Ukraine will soon mark one year, and there appears no possibility of Russia ceasing its offensive anytime soon. Since the beginning of the war, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has appealed to international governments to send weapons and military equipment to further enable his country retaliate against Russian attacks.

The war in Ukraine will soon mark one year, and there appears no possibility of Russia ceasing its offensive anytime soon. Since the beginning of the war, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has appealed to international governments to send weapons and military equipment to further enable his country retaliate against Russian attacks. Recently, Germany and the United States (US) became the latest countries in the West to supply battle tanks to Kyiv, after initially being reluctant to do so. It has been observed that since the beginning of the war on February 24, 2022, there has been an upward trend in global military spending as several countries are increasing their military budgets. An increase in spending would mean more money for defence companies- particularly from the US. As Russia's offensive in Ukraine rages on, will 2023 be the year of defence companies? United States: Defence companies post higher net sales A report by the news agency Reuters on Monday (January 23) said that American defence companies were set to post higher sales in the fourth quarter bolstered by easing supply chain bottlenecks and increased defence outlays as the Pentagon and allies stepped up spending to aid Ukraine. Two defence companies — Lockheed Martin and Raytheon Technologies — reported their fourth-quarter earnings on Tuesday. Lockheed Martin reported fourth quarter 2022 net sales of $19.0 billion, compared to $17.7 billion in the fourth quarter of 2021, a report by Cision PR Newswire said. On the other hand, Raytheon Technologies, an aerospace and defence company, beat analysts' expectations as it fed off a strong travel demand worldwide which boosted demand for its jet engine, parts and services. According to data from Refinitiv, Raytheon reported an adjusted net income of $1.27 per share in the quarter that ended December 31, above analysts' average estimate of $1.24 per share. The company's net sales were up 6.2% at $18.09 billion, but missed analysts' average estimate of $18.15 billion. A report by Reuters on Tuesday said that Raytheon's missiles and defence unit sales were up 6.2% to $4.1 billion in the fourth quarter. Another American company Northrop Grumman reported a fourth-quarter sales growth of 16% year-over-year to $10.03 billion, beating the consensus of $9.66 billion, a report by Benzinga on Wednesday said. Defence budgets booming worldwide Many countries assisting Ukraine, have replenished their military equipment sent to the war-torn country and now are working towards increasing their own defence budgets. Japan, which supplied bulletproof vests, helmets, medical kits and other supplies to Ukraine last year, will boost its defence budget for 2023. In December last year, the government unveiled a record $863 billion (114.4 trillion yen) budget amid rising threats from North Korea and China. The budget would include the purchase of US-made Tomahawks and other long-range cruise missiles that can hit targets in China or North Korea, a report by Al-Jazeera said. The government would also buy standoff missiles for launch from warplanes from Norway and from Lockheed Martin. French President Emmanuel Macron announced last week that his government would boost military spending by more than one-third in the coming years. On January 20, Macron said the planned budget from 2024-2030 would adapt the military to the possibility of high-intensity conflicts, made all the more urgent since the start of the war in Ukraine, Al-Jazeera reported. The budget for the period will stand at $447 billion, up from $320 in 2019-2025. France, which has supplied Ukraine with rocket launchers and Crotale air defence systems, recently announced that it would supply battle tanks to the war-hit country. Germany, which announced the supply of Leopard-2 tanks to Ukraine, approved its defence budget last year. Germany's core defence spending for 2023 would amount to $55.4 billion, a 0.6% nominal decrease from 2022. Since the beginning of the Russian offensive in Ukraine, there has been an intense debate in Berlin over the state of the German military and the role it should play in Europe. Just three days after the war began, chancellor Olaf Scholz proclaimed “a change of era” for the country's defence policy, according to The Christian Science Monitor. Who is the biggest winner in the Ukraine war? The United States has emerged as one of the biggest supporters of Ukraine in terms of the provision of military equipment. And one cannot deny the fact Ukraine would not have been able to fight back against Russia without weapons supplied by the US. And therefore, the American arms industry is the biggest winner. However, Washington has also faced criticism. In November last year, European officials hit out at the Joe Biden administration for profiting from the war. Speaking to POLITICO, one such official said, "The fact is, if you look at it soberly, the country that is most profiting from this war (in Ukraine) is the US because they are selling more gas and at higher prices, and because they are selling more weapons." A month before the war, a likely opportunity surfaced for Western arms companies Just a month before the Russian offensive started, top Western arms companies were briefing investors about a likely boost to their profits. George J. Hayes from Raytheon said during a call, "We just have to look to last week where we saw the drone attack in the UAE … And of course, the tensions in eastern Europe, the tensions in the South China Sea, all of those things are putting pressure on some of the defence spending over there. So I fully expect we’re going to see some benefit from it," the Conversation reported in March 2022. So it's clear: the military-industrial complex is thriving once again as the world looks at prospects of more long-drawn wars, now over Ukraine and possibly soon over Taiwan. If the 49% increase in military sales by the US to foreign countries is anything to go by, 2023 will be the year of American defence companies. 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.

Explained: As the war in Ukraine rages on, will 2023 be the year of defence companies?

The Russian army on Wednesday (January 11) countered mercenary group Wagner's claim a day back that its fighters had taken control of the Soledar City in Ukraine. Issuing a statement, the Russian army said the battle for Soledar is ongoing, adding assault squads were fighting in the city, a report by news agency AFP said.&nbsp;The army said its forces blocked Soledar from the&nbsp;northern and southern areas and that the air force was striking enemy households.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-us-to-supply-armoured-combat-vehicles-to-ukraine-549894">Germany, US to supply armoured combat vehicles to Ukraine</a>

Earlier, Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin claimed late Tuesday that the group took control of the entire territory of the city. Prigozhin added the number of captives would be announced on Wednesday but there is no update yet. The Wagner chief also published a photograph of himself in military uniform surrounded by the group's fighters.&nbsp;

Before the Russian army's response, the Ukrainian government denied Wagner's claim of taking control of Soledar.&nbsp;"Soledar&nbsp;was, is and will be Ukrainian," the strategic communications branch of the Ukrainian military said in a statement, an earlier AFP report said.&nbsp;The branch said that photographs released by Wagner&nbsp;that Russian media said were taken in&nbsp;Soledar&nbsp;had been taken elsewhere.

ALSO WATCH | German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock visits Kharkiv

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As the war in Ukraine continues, the Russian military struck Kharkiv city in eastern Ukraine on Tuesday, just hours after a visit by German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock.

Taking to Telegram, regional governor Oleg Synegubov warned Kharkiv's residents to stay in shelters as occupiers were bombing again. The city has faced heavy bombardment since the beginning of Russia's offensive in Ukraine in February last year. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-is-the-western-press-asking-same-agenda-driven-motivated-questions-462899">'Give Ukraine weapons': Is the western press asking same, agenda-driven, motivated questions?</a>

German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock became the first highest-level Western official to visit Kharkiv, AFP reported. Baerbock vowed further German support for Ukraine and stressed that her government will keep supplying weapons that Ukraine needs to free its citizens who are still suffering under the terror of Russian occupation.

The German foreign minister provided Ukraine with the following- a &nbsp;"further help package" of power generators, 20 million euros ($21 million) for demining and 20 million euros as financial help for the Starlink project ensuring internet access.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Russian army on Wednesday (January 11) countered mercenary group Wagner's claim a day back that its fighters had taken control of the Soledar City in Ukraine.

The Russian army on Wednesday (January 11) countered mercenary group Wagner's claim a day back that its fighters had taken control of the Soledar City in Ukraine. Issuing a statement, the Russian army said the battle for Soledar is ongoing, adding assault squads were fighting in the city, a report by news agency AFP said. The army said its forces blocked Soledar from the northern and southern areas and that the air force was striking enemy households. ALSO READ | Germany, US to supply armoured combat vehicles to Ukraine Earlier, Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin claimed late Tuesday that the group took control of the entire territory of the city. Prigozhin added the number of captives would be announced on Wednesday but there is no update yet. The Wagner chief also published a photograph of himself in military uniform surrounded by the group's fighters. Before the Russian army's response, the Ukrainian government denied Wagner's claim of taking control of Soledar. "Soledar was, is and will be Ukrainian," the strategic communications branch of the Ukrainian military said in a statement, an earlier AFP report said. The branch said that photographs released by Wagner that Russian media said were taken in Soledar had been taken elsewhere. ALSO WATCH | German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock visits Kharkiv As the war in Ukraine continues, the Russian military struck Kharkiv city in eastern Ukraine on Tuesday, just hours after a visit by German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock. Taking to Telegram, regional governor Oleg Synegubov warned Kharkiv's residents to stay in shelters as occupiers were bombing again. The city has faced heavy bombardment since the beginning of Russia's offensive in Ukraine in February last year. ALSO READ | 'Give Ukraine weapons': Is the western press asking same, agenda-driven, motivated questions? German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock became the first highest-level Western official to visit Kharkiv, AFP reported. Baerbock vowed further German support for Ukraine and stressed that her government will keep supplying weapons that Ukraine needs to free its citizens who are still suffering under the terror of Russian occupation. The German foreign minister provided Ukraine with the following- a "further help package" of power generators, 20 million euros ($21 million) for demining and 20 million euros as financial help for the Starlink project ensuring internet access. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia responds to Wagner’s claim of control over Soledar, says fight for city ongoing

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?

At least five people were killed and 35 others were injured on Saturday (December 24) by a Russian missile strike in the Ukrainian city of Kherson, according to presidential aide Kyrylo Tymoshenko. Of those injured, 16 were heavily wounded, Tymoshenko said, according to a report by Reuters.&nbsp;

Taking to Telegram, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack and shared pictures of the shelling. "Social networks will most likely mark these photos as 'sensitive content'. But this is not sensitive content – it is the real life of Ukraine and Ukrainians," Zelensky said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-official-killed-in-car-blast-in-russia-controlled-lyubimivka-545682">Ukraine war: Official killed in car blast in Russia-controlled Lyubimivka</a>

"These are not military facilities ... It is terror, it is killing for the sake of intimidation and pleasure," the President added.&nbsp;

Russia had occupied Kherson shortly after it began its special military operation in Ukraine in February this year. In November, Ukrainian forces recaptured the city in a significant military defeat for Moscow.&nbsp;

However, Kherson has been struck by Russian forces multiple times.&nbsp;

Saturday's attack comes more than a week after two people, including a Red Cross worker,&nbsp;were killed in Russian shelling in the city on December 15. Regional governor Yaroslav Yanushevych said the attack left Kherson completely without power. President Zelensky had said that Moscow bombed the city more than 16 times on this day.

More than 11,000 people have left Kherson since it was recaptured in November and most of them had been evacuated by the government, according to the ministry that was responsible for reintegrating the city. During Russia's control, regional officials estimated that 100,000 residents were in Kherson, AFP reported last week.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/up-your-game-putin-tells-russian-defence-industry-546291">Up your game, Putin tells Russian defence industry</a>

The war in Ukraine has entered the 11th month with no possible end to Russia's aggression. On Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin told the defence industry to up its game to ensure that the army got all the weapons, equipment and military hardware that it needed to fight.&nbsp;

"The most important key task of our military-industrial complex is to provide our units and frontline forces with everything they need: weapons, equipment, ammunition, and gear in the necessary quantities and of the right quality in the shortest possible timeframes," Putin said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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At least five people were killed and 35 others were injured on Saturday (December 24) by a Russian missile strike in the Ukrainian city of Kherson, according to presidential aide Kyrylo Tymoshenko.

At least five people were killed and 35 others were injured on Saturday (December 24) by a Russian missile strike in the Ukrainian city of Kherson, according to presidential aide Kyrylo Tymoshenko. Of those injured, 16 were heavily wounded, Tymoshenko said, according to a report by Reuters. Taking to Telegram, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack and shared pictures of the shelling. "Social networks will most likely mark these photos as 'sensitive content'. But this is not sensitive content – it is the real life of Ukraine and Ukrainians," Zelensky said. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: Official killed in car blast in Russia-controlled Lyubimivka "These are not military facilities ... It is terror, it is killing for the sake of intimidation and pleasure," the President added. Russia had occupied Kherson shortly after it began its special military operation in Ukraine in February this year. In November, Ukrainian forces recaptured the city in a significant military defeat for Moscow. However, Kherson has been struck by Russian forces multiple times. Saturday's attack comes more than a week after two people, including a Red Cross worker, were killed in Russian shelling in the city on December 15. Regional governor Yaroslav Yanushevych said the attack left Kherson completely without power. President Zelensky had said that Moscow bombed the city more than 16 times on this day. More than 11,000 people have left Kherson since it was recaptured in November and most of them had been evacuated by the government, according to the ministry that was responsible for reintegrating the city. During Russia's control, regional officials estimated that 100,000 residents were in Kherson, AFP reported last week. ALSO READ | Up your game, Putin tells Russian defence industry The war in Ukraine has entered the 11th month with no possible end to Russia's aggression. On Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin told the defence industry to up its game to ensure that the army got all the weapons, equipment and military hardware that it needed to fight. "The most important key task of our military-industrial complex is to provide our units and frontline forces with everything they need: weapons, equipment, ammunition, and gear in the necessary quantities and of the right quality in the shortest possible timeframes," Putin said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Five killed, 35 injured in Russian shelling in Kherson; Zelensky terms it ‘killing for pleasure’

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 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

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