UKRAINE POLITICS: Ukraine's former Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has taken up a new international defence role just weeks after his dismissal from the Ukrainian government triggered rare wartime protests.

Fedorov has accepted a position as defence innovation adviser to Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto. In his new role, the 35-year-old is expected to advise Italy on modern warfare technologies, with a focus on autonomous systems, air defence and defence-sector innovation.

Italy's Defence Ministry described the appointment as an important opportunity, highlighting Fedorov's experience in defence technology and innovation. Fedorov will remain based in Kyiv while working in his new international role.

His appointment comes amid significant political developments in Ukraine. Fedorov was dismissed as defence minister in July following reported tensions with Ukraine's military leadership. His removal triggered protests, with supporters calling for his reinstatement.

During the war, Fedorov became a prominent advocate of drone warfare and military technology, pushing efforts to modernize Ukraine's armed forces and expand the country's autonomous systems and drone capabilities.

Ex-Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov Takes Italy Defence Adviser Role After Dramatic Dismissal

The Russia-Ukraine war has entered a deadly new phase as Moscow intensifies its aerial assault on Ukraine with missiles and hundreds of drones. At least 16 people have been killed and more than 130 injured, including children, in the latest attacks.

Ukraine has retaliated with long-range drone strikes targeting Russian oil and logistics infrastructure. Kyiv has also warned of depleted Patriot missile stocks, raising concerns over its ability to intercept ballistic missiles.

France is preparing additional interceptor missiles for Ukraine, while Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for national unity. Meanwhile, Ukraine is urging the United States to take a more active role in efforts to end the war.

Russia-Ukraine War Escalates | Deadly Strikes Kill 16 | Kyiv Hit By Massive Barrage

Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the world has witnessed a series of devastating conflicts. The human cost of these wars is immense. But there is another casualty that receives far less attention: history itself.&nbsp;History does not live only in textbooks. It survives in monuments, museums, ancient places of worship, archaeological sites and cultural landmarks—physical reminders of where humanity came from.&nbsp;Yet wars in recent years have put hundreds of these sites at risk across Ukraine, Iran, Gaza and Lebanon.<h2>Ukraine: A Cultural Heritage Under Fire</h2>Take yourself back to March 2022. The world of culture was left in shock after Russian forces were accused of bombing the prominent theatre in Mariupol, where civilians had reportedly taken shelter. The city was subsequently captured by Russia.More recently, Kyiv's 11th-century Saint Sophia Cathedral suffered damage from the impact of a nearby strike blamed on Russia. The cathedral and its surrounding architectural ensemble are recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.And the destruction has extended beyond buildings. In a recent Russian drone strike on a warehouse in Ukraine's northeastern city of Kharkiv, reports said around eight million books were destroyed.According to UNESCO, at least 545 cultural sites in Ukraine had been confirmed damaged by the end of July. The list includes hundreds of historically significant buildings, museums and monuments.<h2>Iran: Ancient Heritage Caught in a Modern Conflict</h2>Iran's historic sites have also suffered damage amid aerial attacks. One example is Tehran's centuries-old Golestan Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Reports said windows, doors and mirrors at the historic complex were damaged during U.S.-Israeli strikes.Within just over a month of active hostilities, reports indicated that 149 historical sites across Iran had suffered varying degrees of damage, including 70 sites in Tehran. More than 50 museums were also reportedly affected.<h2>Gaza: A Heritage Landscape Devastated</h2>In Gaza, the scale of destruction has been extraordinary. The Great Omari Mosque, the largest and oldest mosque in Gaza City, was reduced to ruins after being damaged in Israeli strikes in 2023. The site has a history stretching back centuries. Its library and an adjacent cultural centre containing thousands of historic documents were also heavily damaged.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-modern-war-is-systematically-erasing-human-history-1786732228456/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-modern-war-is-systematically-erasing-human-history-1786732228456/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;In October 2023, an Israeli airstrike hit an area near the Greek Orthodox Saint Porphyrius Church, where displaced people had sought shelter. Hamas said the strike killed people inside the church compound.Since October 2023, nearly 128 buildings of historic significance in Gaza have reportedly suffered heavy damage. The destruction also includes religious sites, monuments and archaeological locations.<h2>Lebanon: Ancient Sites in the Crossfire</h2>Lebanon's cultural heritage has not escaped the conflict either.In April, UNESCO expressed deep concern over damage in the vicinity of the ancient Beaufort Castle, a historic fortress with centuries of history.The threat to heritage is not simply about damaged stone, broken windows or destroyed buildings.When a museum burns, irreplaceable objects can disappear.When an archive is destroyed, generations of knowledge can vanish.And when an ancient monument is reduced to rubble, humanity loses a physical connection to its own past.<h2>What Happens When History Disappears?</h2>Wars are fought in the present—but their consequences can reach thousands of years into the past.The destruction of cultural heritage can erase evidence of civilizations, traditions, languages, art and collective memory that can never truly be recreated.Protecting heritage during war, therefore, is not merely about preserving buildings.It is about protecting humanity's shared memory.As conflicts continue across different parts of the world, a more concerted international effort to safeguard cultural heritage has become more urgent than ever.Because when a piece of history disappears, the loss belongs to all of us.

According to UNESCO, at least 545 cultural sites in Ukraine had been confirmed damaged by the end of July. The list includes hundreds of historically significant buildings, museums and monuments.

Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the world has witnessed a series of devastating conflicts. The human cost of these wars is immense. But there is another casualty that receives far less attention: history itself. History does not live only in textbooks. It survives in monuments, museums, ancient places of worship, archaeological sites and cultural landmarks—physical reminders of where humanity came from. Yet wars in recent years have put hundreds of these sites at risk across Ukraine, Iran, Gaza and Lebanon. Ukraine: A Cultural Heritage Under Fire Take yourself back to March 2022. The world of culture was left in shock after Russian forces were accused of bombing the prominent theatre in Mariupol, where civilians had reportedly taken shelter. The city was subsequently captured by Russia. More recently, Kyiv's 11th-century Saint Sophia Cathedral suffered damage from the impact of a nearby strike blamed on Russia. The cathedral and its surrounding architectural ensemble are recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. And the destruction has extended beyond buildings. In a recent Russian drone strike on a warehouse in Ukraine's northeastern city of Kharkiv, reports said around eight million books were destroyed. According to UNESCO, at least 545 cultural sites in Ukraine had been confirmed damaged by the end of July. The list includes hundreds of historically significant buildings, museums and monuments. Iran: Ancient Heritage Caught in a Modern Conflict Iran's historic sites have also suffered damage amid aerial attacks. One example is Tehran's centuries-old Golestan Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Reports said windows, doors and mirrors at the historic complex were damaged during U.S.-Israeli strikes. Within just over a month of active hostilities, reports indicated that 149 historical sites across Iran had suffered varying degrees of damage, including 70 sites in Tehran. More than 50 museums were also reportedly affected. Gaza: A Heritage Landscape Devastated In Gaza, the scale of destruction has been extraordinary. The Great Omari Mosque, the largest and oldest mosque in Gaza City, was reduced to ruins after being damaged in Israeli strikes in 2023. The site has a history stretching back centuries. Its library and an adjacent cultural centre containing thousands of historic documents were also heavily damaged. https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-modern-war-is-systematically-erasing-human-history-1786732228456/embed In October 2023, an Israeli airstrike hit an area near the Greek Orthodox Saint Porphyrius Church, where displaced people had sought shelter. Hamas said the strike killed people inside the church compound. Since October 2023, nearly 128 buildings of historic significance in Gaza have reportedly suffered heavy damage. The destruction also includes religious sites, monuments and archaeological locations. Lebanon: Ancient Sites in the Crossfire Lebanon's cultural heritage has not escaped the conflict either. In April, UNESCO expressed deep concern over damage in the vicinity of the ancient Beaufort Castle, a historic fortress with centuries of history. The threat to heritage is not simply about damaged stone, broken windows or destroyed buildings. When a museum burns, irreplaceable objects can disappear. When an archive is destroyed, generations of knowledge can vanish. And when an ancient monument is reduced to rubble, humanity loses a physical connection to its own past. What Happens When History Disappears? Wars are fought in the present—but their consequences can reach thousands of years into the past. The destruction of cultural heritage can erase evidence of civilizations, traditions, languages, art and collective memory that can never truly be recreated. Protecting heritage during war, therefore, is not merely about preserving buildings. It is about protecting humanity's shared memory. As conflicts continue across different parts of the world, a more concerted international effort to safeguard cultural heritage has become more urgent than ever. Because when a piece of history disappears, the loss belongs to all of us.

According to UNESCO, at least 545 cultural sites in Ukraine had been confirmed damaged by the end of July. The list includes hundreds of historically significant buildings, museums and monuments.

From Ukraine to Gaza: How modern war is erasing human history | GRAVITAS

A new legal case in Russia has put a member of one of America’s most prominent political families in the spotlight. Conor Kennedy, the son of U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has reportedly been placed on Russia’s international wanted list over his involvement in the Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;According to Russia’s state news agency TASS, a Moscow court has authorised the arrest of the 32-year-old Kennedy in absentia. Russian authorities accuse him of serving as a mercenary alongside Ukrainian forces.&nbsp;Kennedy revealed in an Instagram post in October 2022 that he had joined Ukraine’s International Legion of Foreign Volunteers earlier that year. He said he wanted to help Ukrainians and was willing to risk his life for the cause.&nbsp;Kennedy had no previous military experience and said his time in Ukraine was brief. Russian authorities allege that he fought alongside Ukrainian forces in the Kharkiv region under an assumed identity. That claim has not been independently confirmed.&nbsp;According to TASS, a conviction could carry a prison sentence of seven to 10 years. Kennedy remains outside Russia, making any immediate trial unlikely.&nbsp;Russian courts have issued similar rulings involving other foreign volunteers from countries including the United States, Britain, Sweden, Colombia and Georgia.&nbsp;<h2>The case also carries a political dimension</h2>&nbsp;Kennedy’s father, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., serves in U.S. President Donald Trump’s cabinet as Secretary of Health. Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have maintained dialogue since Trump returned to the White House, as efforts continue to end the Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;Conor Kennedy has also attracted attention outside politics. He was previously linked romantically to singer Taylor Swift and married Brazilian singer-songwriter Giulia Be this year. He is also the grand-nephew of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy.&nbsp;<h2>There is an additional historical connection</h2>&nbsp;John F. Kennedy and the Soviet Union faced one of the most dangerous periods of the Cold War, from the near-nuclear confrontation of the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis to a fragile period of cooperation that helped lead to the 1963 Nuclear Test Ban Treaty.&nbsp;More than six decades later, the Kennedy family name has once again become entangled with a major confrontation involving Russia.

According to Russia’s state news agency TASS, a Moscow court has authorised the arrest of the 32-year-old Kennedy in absentia. Russian authorities accuse him of serving as a mercenary alongside Ukrainian forces.

A new legal case in Russia has put a member of one of America’s most prominent political families in the spotlight. Conor Kennedy, the son of U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has reportedly been placed on Russia’s international wanted list over his involvement in the Russia-Ukraine war. According to Russia’s state news agency TASS, a Moscow court has authorised the arrest of the 32-year-old Kennedy in absentia. Russian authorities accuse him of serving as a mercenary alongside Ukrainian forces. Kennedy revealed in an Instagram post in October 2022 that he had joined Ukraine’s International Legion of Foreign Volunteers earlier that year. He said he wanted to help Ukrainians and was willing to risk his life for the cause. Kennedy had no previous military experience and said his time in Ukraine was brief. Russian authorities allege that he fought alongside Ukrainian forces in the Kharkiv region under an assumed identity. That claim has not been independently confirmed. According to TASS, a conviction could carry a prison sentence of seven to 10 years. Kennedy remains outside Russia, making any immediate trial unlikely. Russian courts have issued similar rulings involving other foreign volunteers from countries including the United States, Britain, Sweden, Colombia and Georgia. The case also carries a political dimension Kennedy’s father, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., serves in U.S. President Donald Trump’s cabinet as Secretary of Health. Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have maintained dialogue since Trump returned to the White House, as efforts continue to end the Russia-Ukraine war. Conor Kennedy has also attracted attention outside politics. He was previously linked romantically to singer Taylor Swift and married Brazilian singer-songwriter Giulia Be this year. He is also the grand-nephew of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy. There is an additional historical connection John F. Kennedy and the Soviet Union faced one of the most dangerous periods of the Cold War, from the near-nuclear confrontation of the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis to a fragile period of cooperation that helped lead to the 1963 Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. More than six decades later, the Kennedy family name has once again become entangled with a major confrontation involving Russia.

According to Russia’s state news agency TASS, a Moscow court has authorised the arrest of the 32-year-old Kennedy in absentia. Russian authorities accuse him of serving as a mercenary alongside Ukrainian forces.

Putin puts RFK Jr.’s son Conor on Russia’s wanted list over Ukraine war | GRAVITAS

Donald Trump's military strategy is facing renewed scrutiny as concerns grow over U.S. weapons stockpiles and defense production. Questions are mounting over whether Washington can simultaneously support Ukraine, maintain pressure on Iran, deter China, and reassure allies without overstretching its military resources. As debates intensify over Patriot missile supplies, logistics, and industrial capacity, analysts warn that inventory shortages could become a major strategic challenge for the United States.

Trump's War Strategy Under Fire | U.S. Weapons Shortage Raises Questions Over Ukraine, Iran & China

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has claimed that Russia used a North Korean ballistic missile during its latest wave of attacks on Ukraine.

According to Ukrainian officials, Russia launched 74 missiles and 284 drones in an overnight barrage that struck multiple locations, including central Ukraine, where several civilians, including children, were killed.

Zelenskyy called for increased military support from Western allies, urging the United States and Europe to strengthen Ukraine's air defenses. Meanwhile, Poland has accused Russia of violating its airspace after a missile explosion near the Ukrainian border. Polish authorities say evidence points to a Russian KH-101 cruise missile, while NATO has pledged to take all necessary measures to defend alliance territory.

Zelenskyy: Russia Used North Korean Ballistic Missile | Poland Blames Russian KH-101 Strike

Welcome to Wion Dispatch. Here are the biggest stories making headlines from India and around the world.

The government has responded to Rahul Gandhi's allegations against Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the student protest crackdown. Union Minister Jitendra Singh rejected the claims, saying only authorised officials such as magistrates can issue such orders.

Meanwhile, tensions continue in West Asia as Israel accuses Hezbollah of violating the ceasefire after an alleged drone attack on an Israeli vehicle in southern Lebanon. Iran's Parliament Deputy Speaker has also warned that the Strait of Hormuz will not return to its previous status, stressing Iran's control over the strategic waterway.

In Washington, the US Senate advances legislation targeting Russia's energy revenues, including tougher sanctions and measures against countries buying Russian oil and gas.

Spain continues battling a major wildfire near Madrid, with Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez saying the next few hours will be crucial.

In sports, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has proposed financial incentives for member associations backing a controversial plan involving stakes in major competitions.

Rahul Gandhi vs Government Over Student Protest Row | Hezbollah Ceasefire Clash |Iran Hormuz Warning

India's NEET paper leak protests continue to intensify as Congress leader Rahul Gandhi backs students' three key demands and insists that Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan must be removed instead of being shifted to another ministry. Security has been tightened across Delhi ahead of another round of talks between the government and protest leaders.

In this edition of WION World Is One, we also cover:

Rahul Gandhi's demand to sack Dharmendra Pradhan
Delhi security tightened amid NEET paper leak protests
Clashes in Patna during statewide shutdown
Romania shoots down another drone near Ukraine border
Houthi missile attack on Saudi Arabia's Jazan
UN Secretary-General António Guterres visits Syria
Typhoon Nol forces mass evacuations in China
Wildfires continue to devastate France and Spain

Stay tuned for the latest international updates and breaking developments.

Rahul Gandhi backs students' 3 demands | NEET protest intensifies | China Typhoon | Europe Wildfires

Donald Trump claimed that newly declassified intelligence reveals China compromised millions of U.S. voter records and exposed vulnerabilities in America's election infrastructure. The announcement comes as the U.S. launches a sixth consecutive night of strikes on Iranian military targets, while tensions continue to rise across West Asia. CENTCOM also intensified maritime operations near Iran as Ukraine reported deadly Russian missile strikes on Odesa. Meanwhile, North Korea pledged stronger ties with China, SpaceX aborted its latest Starship launch seconds before liftoff, and Japan's stock market plunged amid growing concerns over the AI sector.

Stay tuned for the latest international developments, geopolitical updates, defence news, breaking headlines, and global affairs.

Trump claims China hacked U.S. election data | U.S. strikes Iran again | Starship launch aborted 

A New York Times investigation has alleged that Russia has turned Japan into a key hub for espionage, covert procurement, and the sourcing of critical technology used in the Russia-Ukraine war. The report claims Russian intelligence officers operating under diplomatic and commercial cover have exploited Japan's relatively weak espionage laws to acquire sensitive components. Japan has acknowledged the need to strengthen its intelligence and counter-espionage capabilities, with Parliament approving a new national intelligence coordination body. The report also alleges that procurement networks routed military-use technology through intermediary countries to bypass export controls.

Japan tightens intelligence network after the NYT exposes alleged Russian spy operations

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on NATO allies to increase support for Ukraine's air defence capabilities as Russia continues large-scale missile and drone attacks. With concerns growing over shortages of Patriot missile systems and other critical defence equipment, Kyiv is seeking urgent assistance to protect cities and infrastructure. The appeal comes as NATO leaders meet to discuss security challenges facing Europe.

Zelensky urges NATO to step up help for Ukraine on air defences

Donald Trump takes center stage at the G7 Summit as world leaders gather to address some of the biggest challenges facing the globe. From the ongoing war in Ukraine to escalating tensions in the Middle East, the summit is packed with high-stakes diplomacy. Trump is expected to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and key Middle Eastern leaders as discussions focus on security, trade, energy, and global stability. The summit could shape major international decisions in the weeks ahead.


G7 Summit '26: Leaders Gather For The High Stakes Summit In Evian-Les-Bains 

Russia has launched a fresh wave of missile and drone attacks on Kyiv, Ukraine's capital, leaving at least six people injured according to local authorities. Air raid sirens sounded across the city as Ukrainian air defenses worked to intercept incoming threats.


Russia Ukraine War: Deadly Russian Strike Ignites Monastery in Kyiv

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said Moscow is prepared to make compromises to help end the conflict in Ukraine, but stressed that Kyiv must also be willing to make concessions. The remarks come amid renewed diplomatic efforts and growing international calls for a negotiated settlement to the war.

Putin's statement is likely to fuel fresh debate over the prospects for peace, the conditions for any future agreement, and whether Russia and Ukraine can bridge deep differences after years of conflict.

Putin: Moscow Ready For Compromises, Ukraine Must Do The Same

At least nine people were killed, and dozens of others were wounded as Russia hit Ukraine with a barrage of missiles and drone strikes. The massive attack comes just days after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that Moscow was preparing a "massive new strike". In a statement, Tymur Tkachenko, the head of Kyiv's City Military Administration, said: "The enemy is striking with ballistic missiles." &nbsp;Moscow has bombarded Ukraine almost daily since launching an offensive in 2022, often provoking retaliation from Kyiv, as talks to end Europe's deadliest conflict since World War II remain stalled.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-intercepts-lebanon-projectiles-hours-after-trump-s-f-ing-crazy-call-with-netanyahu-israel-lebanon-war-iran-war-truce-1780360547603">Israel intercepts Lebanon projectiles hours after Trump’s ‘f***ing crazy’ call with Netanyahu</a><h2>Kyiv under mass enemy attack</h2>In a statement, Vitali Klitschko, the mayor of the Ukrainian capital city Kyiv, said that at least four people were killed, and at least 58, including two children, were injured in what he said was a "mass enemy attack"."Explosions in the city. Air defence forces are working. Stay in shelters," Klitschko wrote as residents rushed underground carrying blankets, bags and emergency supplies. Elsewhere, the central city of Dnipro suffered some of the deadliest casualties. Regional authorities said five people were killed and 25 wounded. Three of the injured remain in serious condition.In Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city located near the Russian border, at least 10 people, including a child, were injured in another overnight strike.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-controversial-1-8-billion-weaponisation-fund-dead-for-now-doj-says-it-will-abide-by-court-s-freeze-order-1780366163823">Trump's controversial $1.8 billion weaponisation fund 'dead for now'? DoJ says it will abide by court's freeze order</a><h2>Zelensky knew what Russia was planning?</h2>The latest attacks come after Zelensky publicly warned that intelligence agencies had detected signs of a large-scale Russian operation. "We have intelligence information about Russia preparing a new massive strike," Zelensky said last week, urging Ukrainians to pay close attention to air raid alerts and seek shelter when necessary. The Ukrainian president has also renewed calls for Western allies to provide additional Patriot air defence systems, arguing that they remain one of the few effective tools against Russian ballistic missiles. Zelensky recently appealed directly to US President Donald Trump and members of Congress for further support.<h2>Ukraine kills one in Kursk</h2>Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to strike targets inside Russia. Russian officials said a Ukrainian drone attack killed one person in the Kursk region near the border. Another drone reportedly caused a fire at an oil refinery in Krasnodar in southern Russia.

At least 9 killed as Russia launches major missile, drone assault on Ukraine

At least nine people were killed, and dozens of others were wounded as Russia hit Ukraine with a barrage of missiles and drone strikes. The massive attack comes just days after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that Moscow was preparing a "massive new strike". In a statement, Tymur Tkachenko, the head of Kyiv's City Military Administration, said: "The enemy is striking with ballistic missiles." Moscow has bombarded Ukraine almost daily since launching an offensive in 2022, often provoking retaliation from Kyiv, as talks to end Europe's deadliest conflict since World War II remain stalled. Also read | Israel intercepts Lebanon projectiles hours after Trump’s ‘f***ing crazy’ call with Netanyahu Kyiv under mass enemy attack In a statement, Vitali Klitschko, the mayor of the Ukrainian capital city Kyiv, said that at least four people were killed, and at least 58, including two children, were injured in what he said was a "mass enemy attack". "Explosions in the city. Air defence forces are working. Stay in shelters," Klitschko wrote as residents rushed underground carrying blankets, bags and emergency supplies. Elsewhere, the central city of Dnipro suffered some of the deadliest casualties. Regional authorities said five people were killed and 25 wounded. Three of the injured remain in serious condition. In Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city located near the Russian border, at least 10 people, including a child, were injured in another overnight strike. Also read | Trump's controversial $1.8 billion weaponisation fund 'dead for now'? DoJ says it will abide by court's freeze order Zelensky knew what Russia was planning? The latest attacks come after Zelensky publicly warned that intelligence agencies had detected signs of a large-scale Russian operation. "We have intelligence information about Russia preparing a new massive strike," Zelensky said last week, urging Ukrainians to pay close attention to air raid alerts and seek shelter when necessary. The Ukrainian president has also renewed calls for Western allies to provide additional Patriot air defence systems, arguing that they remain one of the few effective tools against Russian ballistic missiles. Zelensky recently appealed directly to US President Donald Trump and members of Congress for further support. Ukraine kills one in Kursk Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to strike targets inside Russia. Russian officials said a Ukrainian drone attack killed one person in the Kursk region near the border. Another drone reportedly caused a fire at an oil refinery in Krasnodar in southern Russia.

At least 9 killed as Russia launches major missile, drone assault on Ukraine

Russia's Dmitry Medvedev has issued one of the starkest warnings of the war, saying Moscow could respond to any catastrophic attack on a nuclear plant with strikes on nuclear facilities in Ukraine and even NATO countries. Medvedev compared a potential nuclear plant disaster to a “new Chernobyl” and warned that Russia's response could extend beyond Ukraine. The warning came after claims of a drone strike on the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, an incident that has sharply raised tensions between Moscow, Kyiv and NATO.


Russia Threatens Strikes on NATO Nuclear Plants | From Zaporizhzhia to Europe: Threat of Retaliation

As Ukraine ups aerial attacks on Russia, Moscow, in a bizarre order, has asked banks and their employees to shoot down Ukrainian drones themselves. According to the TASS news agency, the bill allows trained bank employees to intercept and take down unmanned aerial vehicles. Additionally, the draft legislation, which has already cleared its third and final reading, mandates banks to install electronic jamming systems. The draft, initially proposed last August and later broadened, still needs to be approved by the upper house, the Federation Council, and receive final assent from President Vladimir Putin before it can become law.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/self-proclaimed-simpson-s-prophet-who-predicted-trump-s-presidency-now-wants-to-become-president-himself-1779875535562">Self-proclaimed Simpson's 'prophet' who predicted Trump's presidency makes prediction about 2028 US elections</a><h2>Who pays for the arms and ammunition?</h2>The measure, as per reports, would permit selected banks to intercept unmanned Ukrainian drones. For now, select staff at Russia's central bank, the country's biggest bank, Sberbank, and the ​Russian Cash Collection Association would be allowed to undertake the action.However, the banks would themselves have to fund and install the necessary equipment on their premises. This was confirmed by Anatoly Aksakov, the head of the financial committee in Russia's lower house of parliament, the State Duma, as reported by the RBC News outlet.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-the-tower-of-babel-and-why-did-pope-leo-warn-about-it-while-talking-about-ai-wion-decodes-1779790151646">Pope Leo warns humanity risks repeating ancient mistake: What is the Tower of Babel and what does it have to do with AI?</a>Russian authorities have increasingly called on businesses to help fund defensive measures as Ukraine’s long-range drone attacks continue to grow in both scale and sophistication. On Tuesday, Alexander Shokhin, head of Russia’s most influential business lobby, told President Vladimir Putin that companies are prepared to finance the purchase of heavier weapons and electronic systems to shield their infrastructure from drone strikes.<h2>What triggered this?</h2>This comes as Ukraine struck the central bank's office in Sevastopol in Crimea with a missile on Wednesday. According to local governor Mikhail Razvozhaev, the weapon used in the attack was a British-made Storm Shadow missile, which set the building on fire. This, as per Reuters, was the first attack on a major central bank office since the beginning of the war.The legislation says its purpose is to protect Bank of Russia facilities, including those located in the four eastern Ukrainian regions that Moscow claims to have annexed, even though it does not fully control those territories.&nbsp;Since Russia launched its military operation against Ukraine in February 2022, Kyiv has been regularly striking Russian sites with drones, particularly aiming for energy infrastructure.&nbsp;

As Ukraine intensifies drone strikes deep inside Russia, Moscow has approved a bizarre new measure allowing trained bank employees to shoot down Ukrainian drones themselves. The proposed law would also force banks to install electronic jamming systems.

As Ukraine ups aerial attacks on Russia, Moscow, in a bizarre order, has asked banks and their employees to shoot down Ukrainian drones themselves. According to the TASS news agency, the bill allows trained bank employees to intercept and take down unmanned aerial vehicles. Additionally, the draft legislation, which has already cleared its third and final reading, mandates banks to install electronic jamming systems. The draft, initially proposed last August and later broadened, still needs to be approved by the upper house, the Federation Council, and receive final assent from President Vladimir Putin before it can become law. Also read | Self-proclaimed Simpson's 'prophet' who predicted Trump's presidency makes prediction about 2028 US elections Who pays for the arms and ammunition? The measure, as per reports, would permit selected banks to intercept unmanned Ukrainian drones. For now, select staff at Russia's central bank, the country's biggest bank, Sberbank, and the Russian Cash Collection Association would be allowed to undertake the action. However, the banks would themselves have to fund and install the necessary equipment on their premises. This was confirmed by Anatoly Aksakov, the head of the financial committee in Russia's lower house of parliament, the State Duma, as reported by the RBC News outlet. Also read | Pope Leo warns humanity risks repeating ancient mistake: What is the Tower of Babel and what does it have to do with AI? Russian authorities have increasingly called on businesses to help fund defensive measures as Ukraine’s long-range drone attacks continue to grow in both scale and sophistication. On Tuesday, Alexander Shokhin, head of Russia’s most influential business lobby, told President Vladimir Putin that companies are prepared to finance the purchase of heavier weapons and electronic systems to shield their infrastructure from drone strikes. What triggered this? This comes as Ukraine struck the central bank's office in Sevastopol in Crimea with a missile on Wednesday. According to local governor Mikhail Razvozhaev, the weapon used in the attack was a British-made Storm Shadow missile, which set the building on fire. This, as per Reuters, was the first attack on a major central bank office since the beginning of the war. The legislation says its purpose is to protect Bank of Russia facilities, including those located in the four eastern Ukrainian regions that Moscow claims to have annexed, even though it does not fully control those territories. Since Russia launched its military operation against Ukraine in February 2022, Kyiv has been regularly striking Russian sites with drones, particularly aiming for energy infrastructure.

As Ukraine intensifies drone strikes deep inside Russia, Moscow has approved a bizarre new measure allowing trained bank employees to shoot down Ukrainian drones themselves. The proposed law would also force banks to install electronic jamming systems.

Putin's Russia in bizarre plan asks bank employees to shoot down Ukrainian drones themselves

Russia has threatened to launch a fresh wave of "systematic strikes" against Kyiv, days after carrying out one of its largest attacks on the Ukrainian capital since the start of the war.

The new strikes will target "decision-making centres and command posts", alongside drone manufacturing facilities in the city, Russia's foreign ministry said in a statement.

Russia Threatens To Target Ukraine's Command Posts & Drone Facilities

Russia has reportedly launched an Oreshnik missile strike on Ukraine, triggering fresh fears of a major escalation in the ongoing war. The attack comes amid intensified battlefield clashes and rising global concern over the conflict’s next phase. Watch the video to know more on this!


Russia-Ukraine War: Oreshnik Strike Plunges Ukraine War Into Dangerous New Phase

After nearly 4 years of fighting hand in hand in Ukraine since February 2022, Russia and North Korea have agreed to expand their defence partnership into “long-term” military cooperation, Russia’s defence ministry said on Sunday (April 26), as senior officials, including the defence minister from Moscow, visited Pyongyang.&nbsp;North Korea has already deployed thousands of troops, along with missiles and munitions, to support Russia in its war in Ukraine. In return, analysts say Pyongyang is receiving financial aid, military technology, food and energy supplies, helping it bypass strict international sanctions linked to its nuclear programme.&nbsp;The two countries signed a military treaty in 2024, committing to provide assistance “without delay” if either faces an attack. Building on that pact, Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov said both sides have agreed to place their cooperation on a stable, long-term footing. “We are ready to sign a plan this year for Russian–Korean military cooperation for the period 2027–2031,” he said.&nbsp;Russian officials are in Pyongyang for the opening ceremony of a memorial complex honouring those killed while supporting Moscow's war effort against Ukraine.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-fm-returns-to-pakistan-following-oman-visit-and-us-envoy-cancellation-1777212602159">Iran FM returns to Pakistan following Oman visit and US envoy cancellation</a>&nbsp;During the visit, Belousov met North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Defence Minister No Kwang Chol. Russian parliamentary speaker Vyacheslav Volodin also held talks with Kim and thanked him for the role of North Korean troops in what he described as the “liberation of Kursk”.&nbsp;Pyongyang has deployed forces to Russia’s western Kursk region to counter a prolonged offensive by Ukrainian troops. According to Russia’s defence ministry, Belousov also presented military awards to North Korean soldiers involved in the operation. Volodin said Korean troops fought alongside Russian forces in the campaign.&nbsp;Seoul estimates that around 2,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed in the conflict. Reports suggest troops were instructed to avoid capture, with only two believed to have been taken alive and currently held by Ukrainian authorities.

Russian officials are in Pyongyang for the opening ceremony of a memorial complex honouring those killed while supporting Moscow's war effort against Ukraine.

After nearly 4 years of fighting hand in hand in Ukraine since February 2022, Russia and North Korea have agreed to expand their defence partnership into “long-term” military cooperation, Russia’s defence ministry said on Sunday (April 26), as senior officials, including the defence minister from Moscow, visited Pyongyang. North Korea has already deployed thousands of troops, along with missiles and munitions, to support Russia in its war in Ukraine. In return, analysts say Pyongyang is receiving financial aid, military technology, food and energy supplies, helping it bypass strict international sanctions linked to its nuclear programme. The two countries signed a military treaty in 2024, committing to provide assistance “without delay” if either faces an attack. Building on that pact, Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov said both sides have agreed to place their cooperation on a stable, long-term footing. “We are ready to sign a plan this year for Russian–Korean military cooperation for the period 2027–2031,” he said. Russian officials are in Pyongyang for the opening ceremony of a memorial complex honouring those killed while supporting Moscow's war effort against Ukraine. Also Read: Iran FM returns to Pakistan following Oman visit and US envoy cancellation During the visit, Belousov met North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Defence Minister No Kwang Chol. Russian parliamentary speaker Vyacheslav Volodin also held talks with Kim and thanked him for the role of North Korean troops in what he described as the “liberation of Kursk”. Pyongyang has deployed forces to Russia’s western Kursk region to counter a prolonged offensive by Ukrainian troops. According to Russia’s defence ministry, Belousov also presented military awards to North Korean soldiers involved in the operation. Volodin said Korean troops fought alongside Russian forces in the campaign. Seoul estimates that around 2,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed in the conflict. Reports suggest troops were instructed to avoid capture, with only two believed to have been taken alive and currently held by Ukrainian authorities.

Russian officials are in Pyongyang for the opening ceremony of a memorial complex honouring those killed while supporting Moscow's war effort against Ukraine.

Russia, North Korea agree on ‘long-term’ military cooperation amid Ukraine war

Ukrainian officials have reportedly proposed to rename a part of the Donbas region, which is coveted by Russia, to “Donnyland” as a nod to US President Donald Trump’s efforts against Moscow. The moniker is a reference to “Donbas” and “Donald”. According to a report, officials in Kyiv have repeatedly brought up the idea of Donnyland to the US. This comes as the war in Ukraine continues for more than four years, with Russia capturing the vast majority of Donbas and continuing to seek control of Donetsk.According to a New York Times report, citing people familiar with the negotiations, the renaming of Donbas was a part of an effort to convince the Trump administration to put more pressure on Russia’s territorial demands. Although there has been no official document suggesting the move. Russian President Vladimir Putin has vowed to continue fighting until Russian forces seize a key administrative boundary on the edge of the Donbas, the industrial region in eastern Ukraine where Russia first began waging war in 2014.The report added that the proposed “Donnyland” would cover an area of about 50 miles long and 40 miles wide in northeastern Donetsk, where Ukrainian forces have maintained a strong defensive belt despite sustained Russian offensives. Kyiv envisions the zone as a fortified buffer, reducing the risk of deeper incursions while buying time for longer-term security arrangements.The proposal for Donnyland even went as far as a negotiator creating its flag, coloured green and gold, and a national anthem using ChatGPT, the report added. It is not clear whether the US side saw these symbols.Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials have also explored a “Monaco model” for the region, referencing the Mediterranean city-state, in which a semi-autonomous entity with economic incentives is designed to stabilise the area while keeping it aligned with Ukraine.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeatedly stressed the importance of US support, saying that the only man who can end the war in Ukraine is Trump. “I trust President Trump because he’s the president of the United States, because your people, your people voted for him, and I respect their choice, and I will work with President Trump,” Zelensky told NBC’s “Meet the Press” earlier this year.However, broader negotiations over the future of Donbas have stalled in recent months, since the US waged war on Iran.

Ukraine has floated renaming part of Donbas as “Donnyland” to win over US President Donald Trump and push back against Russia, as stalled talks cloud the region’s future.

Ukrainian officials have reportedly proposed to rename a part of the Donbas region, which is coveted by Russia, to “Donnyland” as a nod to US President Donald Trump’s efforts against Moscow. The moniker is a reference to “Donbas” and “Donald”. According to a report, officials in Kyiv have repeatedly brought up the idea of Donnyland to the US. This comes as the war in Ukraine continues for more than four years, with Russia capturing the vast majority of Donbas and continuing to seek control of Donetsk. According to a New York Times report, citing people familiar with the negotiations, the renaming of Donbas was a part of an effort to convince the Trump administration to put more pressure on Russia’s territorial demands. Although there has been no official document suggesting the move. Russian President Vladimir Putin has vowed to continue fighting until Russian forces seize a key administrative boundary on the edge of the Donbas, the industrial region in eastern Ukraine where Russia first began waging war in 2014. The report added that the proposed “Donnyland” would cover an area of about 50 miles long and 40 miles wide in northeastern Donetsk, where Ukrainian forces have maintained a strong defensive belt despite sustained Russian offensives. Kyiv envisions the zone as a fortified buffer, reducing the risk of deeper incursions while buying time for longer-term security arrangements. The proposal for Donnyland even went as far as a negotiator creating its flag, coloured green and gold, and a national anthem using ChatGPT, the report added. It is not clear whether the US side saw these symbols. Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials have also explored a “Monaco model” for the region, referencing the Mediterranean city-state, in which a semi-autonomous entity with economic incentives is designed to stabilise the area while keeping it aligned with Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeatedly stressed the importance of US support, saying that the only man who can end the war in Ukraine is Trump. “I trust President Trump because he’s the president of the United States, because your people, your people voted for him, and I respect their choice, and I will work with President Trump,” Zelensky told NBC’s “Meet the Press” earlier this year. However, broader negotiations over the future of Donbas have stalled in recent months, since the US waged war on Iran.

Ukraine has floated renaming part of Donbas as “Donnyland” to win over US President Donald Trump and push back against Russia, as stalled talks cloud the region’s future.

‘Donnyland’: Ukraine floats idea of renaming part of Donbas to flatter Trump

Photographs of visibly emaciated Ukrainian frontline soldiers went viral on social media on Thursday (Apr 3). The images posted by an account named 'i.petrovna' on Meta's Threads show three Ukrainian soldiers who are quite literally all skin and bones, with their ribs showing. The shocking pictures come as the Russia-Ukraine war continues unabated for over four years and two months. After the heart-wrenching pictures went viral with over 29K likes and 2.8k reshares in under 24 hours, Ukraine's Ministry of Defence issued an emergency response acknowledging what it called an "extreme situation". Replying to the Threads post, the Ukrainian ministry cited "complicated logistics," even as netizens slammed the "nightmare," asking "Where the f**k is our f**king power?!". Here's what Ukraine has to say about starving soldiers on the frontline.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-use-nuclear-weapons-against-tehran-trump-finally-reveals-his-plan-on-day-55-of-iran-war-1776996331952">US to use nuclear weapons against Tehran? Trump FINALLY REVEALS his plan on day 55 of Iran war</a><h2>What did the pictures show?</h2>The images, posted by an anonymous account on Threads, showed four soldiers from the 2nd Mechanised Battalion of Ukraine's 14th Separate Mechanised Brigade appearing gaunt, hollow-eyed and severely weakened. The accompanying post was stark: "The guys are on the positions without food or water. Command isn't responding. The fighters are losing consciousness from hunger, drinking rainwater. There are also problems with communication."

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The post spread quickly, triggering a wave of alarm and demands for accountability from social media users across multiple platforms. The exact location of the unit has not been disclosed for security reasons, though a brigade update from April 19 suggests at least some of its troops are operating in the Kharkiv region, likely near the Kupyansk sector, an area that has seen sustained and intense fighting.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-profiting-off-righteous-operation-how-an-army-soldier-used-secret-war-plans-about-maduro-s-capture-to-make-400-000-on-polymarket-1776993168140">'Profiting off righteous operation': How an army soldier used secret war plans about Maduro's capture to make $400,000 on Polymarket</a><h2>What did Ukraine say?</h2>Within hours, Ukraine's Ministry of Defence confirmed the situation had been flagged and that the brigade commander had taken personal control of addressing it. Calling the images visuals of one of the war's most gruelling stretches of front line, it said that "Logistics are complicated, but we are working to fix supply issues and rotate the troops."

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The ministry attributed the breakdown not to negligence but to the brutal physical realities of resupply in active combat zones. "This should not happen," acknowledged the ministry, adding "but the situation in different directions of the front is quite critical."Reports suggest that on certain sections of the front line, even delivering food and water has become a life-threatening mission. Supplies are often carried on foot or transported by small drones, both of which are vulnerable to Russian artillery and first-person view drones that hunt anything moving behind Ukrainian lines. As front lines shift, routes that were passable one day can become kill zones the next.Not only that, amid battlefield pressure, commanders are often forced to choose ammunition over food and water. This is not because commanders are indifferent to their troops hunger, but because the calculus of survival on an active front line is brutally straightforward: weapons take precedence.

How bad are conditions on Ukraine’s front lines right now? Viral images showing emaciated troops from a frontline unit have sparked outrage and forced a response from Kyiv. Here's what Ukraine said.

Photographs of visibly emaciated Ukrainian frontline soldiers went viral on social media on Thursday (Apr 3). The images posted by an account named 'i.petrovna' on Meta's Threads show three Ukrainian soldiers who are quite literally all skin and bones, with their ribs showing. The shocking pictures come as the Russia-Ukraine war continues unabated for over four years and two months. After the heart-wrenching pictures went viral with over 29K likes and 2.8k reshares in under 24 hours, Ukraine's Ministry of Defence issued an emergency response acknowledging what it called an "extreme situation". Replying to the Threads post, the Ukrainian ministry cited "complicated logistics," even as netizens slammed the "nightmare," asking "Where the f**k is our f**king power?!". Here's what Ukraine has to say about starving soldiers on the frontline. Also read | US to use nuclear weapons against Tehran? Trump FINALLY REVEALS his plan on day 55 of Iran war What did the pictures show? The images, posted by an anonymous account on Threads, showed four soldiers from the 2nd Mechanised Battalion of Ukraine's 14th Separate Mechanised Brigade appearing gaunt, hollow-eyed and severely weakened. The accompanying post was stark: "The guys are on the positions without food or water. Command isn't responding. The fighters are losing consciousness from hunger, drinking rainwater. There are also problems with communication."

How bad are conditions on Ukraine’s front lines right now? Viral images showing emaciated troops from a frontline unit have sparked outrage and forced a response from Kyiv. Here's what Ukraine said.

'Extreme situation': Images of starving Ukrainian soldiers go viral, Kyiv says 'logistics are complicated'

At least five people were killed and 15 others injured on Saturday (April 18) after a gunman opened fire in a residential area of Kyiv before taking hostages inside a local supermarket in the Holosiivskyi district.&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the fatalities, saying, “At present, five people have been confirmed killed. My condolences to the families and loved ones. Ten people are currently hospitalised with injuries and trauma,” while calling for a swift investigation into the attack.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Ukraine’s Minister of Internal Affairs Ihor Klymenko has just reported that the attacker in Kyiv who opened fire on civilians has been eliminated. All the circumstances are being established. At present, 5 people have been confirmed killed. My condolences to the families and…&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/2045525463615893703?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

According to Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko, the assailant first opened fire on pedestrians before entering the supermarket, where he barricaded himself and took hostages. Police responded quickly, leading to a shootout between the gunman and security forces. After negotiations failed, special tactical units stormed the building, rescued four hostages, and neutralised the attacker.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-apologises-to-women-over-quota-bill-setback-slams-congress-as-anti-reform-party-1776526321091">PM Modi apologises to women over quota bill setback, slams Congress as ‘anti-reform party’</a>&nbsp;Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said the injured included a child, with several victims suffering gunshot wounds and trauma. Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko said four people were killed on the street, while another victim died inside the supermarket.&nbsp;Authorities identified the gunman as a 58-year-old man originally from Moscow, who held Ukrainian citizenship and had previously lived in Bakhmut. Investigators said he used an automatic weapon in the attack. A fire was also reported at the apartment where he was registered shortly after the shooting began. Officials said the motive behind the attack remains under investigation.

Authorities identified the gunman as a 58-year-old man originally from Moscow, who held Ukrainian citizenship and had previously lived in Bakhmut.

At least five people were killed and 15 others injured on Saturday (April 18) after a gunman opened fire in a residential area of Kyiv before taking hostages inside a local supermarket in the Holosiivskyi district. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the fatalities, saying, “At present, five people have been confirmed killed. My condolences to the families and loved ones. Ten people are currently hospitalised with injuries and trauma,” while calling for a swift investigation into the attack.

Authorities identified the gunman as a 58-year-old man originally from Moscow, who held Ukrainian citizenship and had previously lived in Bakhmut.

At least five dead in Kyiv attack, gunman killed after hostage situation

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that Russia may once again attempt to involve Belarus in its ongoing war against Ukraine. According to Ukrainian intelligence reports cited by Kyiv, there are signs of increased military preparations near the Belarus-Ukraine border, including road construction and artillery positioning.

Zelensky cautioned that these developments could indicate a renewed effort by Moscow to expand the conflict’s scope. Belarus previously allowed Russian forces to use its territory during the early phase of the invasion, making the country a key strategic factor in the war’s evolution. The warning highlights growing concerns about potential regional escalation.

Ukraine War: Zelensky Warns Of Belarus Return In Putin's War Plans

Russian strikes have killed at least 16 people in Ukraine, according to local authorities, after Moscow launched a wave of attacks on its neighbour overnight.

Moscow has fired missiles as well as hundreds of drones on its neighbour almost nightly since the beginning of the four-year war, with Kyiv regularly carrying out strikes within Russia in response to its attacks.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Launched BIGGEST Wave of Drones on Ukraine; 14 Killed

In its most intense attack of the year, Russia launched a barrage of missiles and drones against Ukraine on Wednesday and into Thursday morning. At least 16 people were killed in the attack and over 100 are injured said, Ukrainian officials. The attack comes after a short Easter ceasefire between the two countries. About 700 drones and 19 ballistic missiles, along with cruise missiles, were fired against Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. About 636 drones and "some" of the missiles, he further said were destroyed but, "Unfortunately, not all."&nbsp;Kyiv, the capital city faced maximum missile attacks, according to the president, but damage and deaths were also reported in other parts of the country. Some missiles or drones that escaped Ukraine's defenses hit and damaged residential buildings, Zelenskyy said.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/banks-always-win-iran-war-market-volatility-oil-price-turbulence-help-us-giants-clock-50-billion-in-profits-goldman-sachs-citi-jp-morgan-wells-1776333872068">Banks always win: Iran war, market volatility, oil price turbulence help US giants clock $50 billion in profits</a>&nbsp;Taking about the fatalities he took to social media to say, "Tragically, there are fatalities in Odesa, Kyiv, and Dnipro. Among those killed is a boy -- he was 12 years old. My condolences to the families and loved ones."&nbsp;Zelensky further hit out at Russia saying it "does not deserve any easing of global policy or lifting of sanctions".&nbsp;He further accused Russia of "betting on war" and vowed protects its people with all available means.&nbsp;"Russia is betting on war, and the response must be exactly that: we must defend lives with all available means, and we must also apply pressure for the sake of peace with the same full force," &nbsp;Zelenskyy said.&nbsp;

Kyiv, the capital city faced maximum missile attacks, according to the president, but damage and deaths were also reported in other parts of the country. 

In its most intense attack of the year, Russia launched a barrage of missiles and drones against Ukraine on Wednesday and into Thursday morning. At least 16 people were killed in the attack and over 100 are injured said, Ukrainian officials. The attack comes after a short Easter ceasefire between the two countries. About 700 drones and 19 ballistic missiles, along with cruise missiles, were fired against Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. About 636 drones and "some" of the missiles, he further said were destroyed but, "Unfortunately, not all." Kyiv, the capital city faced maximum missile attacks, according to the president, but damage and deaths were also reported in other parts of the country. Some missiles or drones that escaped Ukraine's defenses hit and damaged residential buildings, Zelenskyy said. ALSO READ: Banks always win: Iran war, market volatility, oil price turbulence help US giants clock $50 billion in profits Taking about the fatalities he took to social media to say, "Tragically, there are fatalities in Odesa, Kyiv, and Dnipro. Among those killed is a boy -- he was 12 years old. My condolences to the families and loved ones." Zelensky further hit out at Russia saying it "does not deserve any easing of global policy or lifting of sanctions". He further accused Russia of "betting on war" and vowed protects its people with all available means. "Russia is betting on war, and the response must be exactly that: we must defend lives with all available means, and we must also apply pressure for the sake of peace with the same full force," Zelenskyy said.

Kyiv, the capital city faced maximum missile attacks, according to the president, but damage and deaths were also reported in other parts of the country.&nbsp;

Russia launches massive drone, missile barrage on Ukraine, at least 16 dead

Over 100 robotic assault operations. Zero infantry required: Ukraine has moved from testing robotic warfare to actually using it at scale. A unit in its 3rd Assault Brigade has carried out over 100 frontline combat missions using ground robots, not soldiers. All you need to know.

Over 100 robotic assault operations. Zero infantry required: Ukraine has moved from testing robotic warfare to actually using it at scale. A unit in its 3rd Assault Brigade has carried out over 100 frontline combat missions using ground robots, not soldiers. All you need to know.

Ukraine's robot army: How Kyiv used ground-based robots to execute 100+ combat operations against Russia | In Pics

The global economy is in the midst of a critical setback as the Iran conflict delivers a third major shock after the covid-19 and the Ukraine war. Finance leaders gathering in Washington this week are now bracing for slower growth and higher inflation.


Global Finance Leaders to Meet Amid War Shock

#Gravitas According to reports, Russian President Vladimir Putin is turning to the country’s richest elites, its oligarchs, for financial support to help stabilise the country's finances as the war drags on. A claim that the Kremlin has outrightly rejected. 


Russia-Ukraine War: Putin Asks Russian Oligarchs to Fund War With Ukraine?

Sean Penn won his third Oscar on Sunday night in Los Angeles but gave the ceremony a miss. Penn won the Best Supporting Actor award at the Oscars 2026 for his performance in One Battle After Another, but was conspicuous by his absence. Now, it seems that Penn’s whereabouts have been discovered. The actor was in Ukraine, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelensky, who posted a photo of their meeting on Monday.<h2>Sean Penn skips Oscars 2026</h2>Sean Penn skipped the Oscar Awards 2026 on Sunday night. He has been mostly absent from major award shows this season. His absence didn’t come as a major surprise on Sunday night. When his name was announced as the winner in the Best Supporting Actor category, presenter Kieran Culkin said on stage, “Sean Penn couldn’t be here this evening — or didn’t want to — so I’ll be accepting the award on his behalf.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="Oscar win, but no appearance! Why did Sean Penn skip the Hollywood's biggest night?">Oscar win, but no appearance! Why did Sean Penn skip the Hollywood's biggest night?</a><h2>Sean Penn in Ukraine</h2>On Sunday, The New York Times reported that the actor was in Ukraine on Oscar night. On Monday morning, President Zelensky posted an image of Penn and himself sitting in office chairs as they appear to be in conversation. In the X post, he thanked the actor and praised his commitment to the country as it continues to defend itself against Russia’s invasion.&nbsp;“Sean, thanks to you, we know what a true friend of Ukraine is,” Zelensky wrote. “You have stood with Ukraine since the first day of the full-scale war. This is still true today. And we know that you will continue to stand with our country and our people.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Sean, thanks to you, we know what a true friend of Ukraine is. You have stood with Ukraine since the first day of the full-scale war. This is still true today. And we know that you will continue to stand with our country and our people. <a href="https://t.co/wGneO1rqJI">pic.twitter.com/wGneO1rqJI</a>&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/2033562718205042835?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;In 2023, he told Variety that he had considered melting down the two Oscars he had previously won to provide Ukraine with ammunition in its war against Russia.&nbsp;"I thought, well, f***, you know? I'll give them to Ukraine. They can be melted down to bullets they can shoot at the Russians,” the actor had famously said.&nbsp;Although he didn't melt it, Sean Penn did end up giving Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy his Oscar awards. The actor said, "I told him to keep it and bring it to Malibu after all this is over and his country is safe."&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/an-oscar-tie-a-no-show-and-first-time-winners-the-snubs-and-surprises-at-98th-academy-awards-1773637183164"> An Oscar tie, a no show and first time winners: The snubs and surprises at 98th Academy Awards</a><h2>Penn’s documentary on Ukraine</h2>Penn and Aaron Kaufman’s documentary on Ukraine and Zelensky, titled Superpower, was released in 2023. It uses Penn’s perspective to tell the actor-turned-wartime-president’s atypical story. In addition to his support of Ukraine as it has fended off Russia since its 2022 invasion, he has been known for his high-profile humanitarian work in Louisiana in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and the devastating 2010 Haiti earthquake.<h2>Penn creates history at the Oscars</h2>He may have skipped the Oscars but Penn joined an elite list of actors who have won three Oscars in their career. Penn won the best actor Oscar for the 2003 thriller Mystic River and for the Harvey Milk biopic Milk in 2009. He was also nominated in that category for Dead Man Walking, Sweet and Lowdown and I Am Sam. With this third Oscar, he tied the record for most acting wins by a male performer, joining Jack Nicholson, Walter Brennan and Daniel Day-Lewis.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/oscars-2026-sean-penn-secures-third-academy-award-joins-elite-three-time-oscar-winners-1773669571142/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/oscars-2026-sean-penn-secures-third-academy-award-joins-elite-three-time-oscar-winners-1773669571142/embed</a>&nbsp;

Sean Penn won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his performance in One Battle After Another. However, the actor skipped the ceremony to visit President Zelensky in Ukraine. 

Sean Penn won his third Oscar on Sunday night in Los Angeles but gave the ceremony a miss. Penn won the Best Supporting Actor award at the Oscars 2026 for his performance in One Battle After Another, but was conspicuous by his absence. Now, it seems that Penn’s whereabouts have been discovered. The actor was in Ukraine, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelensky, who posted a photo of their meeting on Monday. Sean Penn skips Oscars 2026 Sean Penn skipped the Oscar Awards 2026 on Sunday night. He has been mostly absent from major award shows this season. His absence didn’t come as a major surprise on Sunday night. When his name was announced as the winner in the Best Supporting Actor category, presenter Kieran Culkin said on stage, “Sean Penn couldn’t be here this evening — or didn’t want to — so I’ll be accepting the award on his behalf.” Also read: Oscar win, but no appearance! Why did Sean Penn skip the Hollywood's biggest night? Sean Penn in Ukraine On Sunday, The New York Times reported that the actor was in Ukraine on Oscar night. On Monday morning, President Zelensky posted an image of Penn and himself sitting in office chairs as they appear to be in conversation. In the X post, he thanked the actor and praised his commitment to the country as it continues to defend itself against Russia’s invasion. “Sean, thanks to you, we know what a true friend of Ukraine is,” Zelensky wrote. “You have stood with Ukraine since the first day of the full-scale war. This is still true today. And we know that you will continue to stand with our country and our people.”

Sean Penn won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his performance in One Battle After Another. However, the actor skipped the ceremony to visit President Zelensky in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Where was Sean Penn during Oscars? Actor skipped ceremony to meet President Zelensky in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed grave concern on Sunday (March 15) that the escalating conflict between the US and Iran could distract Washington from Ukraine’s fight against Russia. Speaking to reporters in a briefing, the Ukrainian leader acknowledged that US officials are "without a doubt currently preoccupied with the Middle East." His comments come just two weeks after a series of US and Israeli strikes on Iranian military and energy infrastructure sparked a regional crisis.<h2>Ukraine offers drone expertise as ‘Trump card’</h2>In an effort to remain a relevant ally, Zelensky revealed that Ukraine has deployed military expert teams to Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates to share hard-won experience in intercepting Iranian-made drones.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-anyone-clothed-by-the-us-is-naked-iranian-official-slams-gulf-nations-over-us-bases-1773560411963">‘Anyone clothed by US is NAKED’: Iran official slams Gulf nations over US bases</a>&nbsp;"We are showing our willingness to help the US and their allies in the Middle East," Zelensky said. "We strongly hope that... the United States will not turn its back on the question of the war in Ukraine,” he added.&nbsp;Ukraine has faced years of barrages from Iranian-designed Shahed drones launched by Russia, leading Kyiv to develop some of the world’s most cost-effective anti-drone tactics. But the American President Donald Trump has been publicly dismissive of the offer. Trump told reporters that the US has "the best drones in the world" and that Zelensky is "the last person the United States would need help from" in a fight against Iran.<h2>‘Will work with any leadership...’</h2>Beyond Washington, Zelensky addressed deteriorating relations with Budapest. He signalled a willingness to work with "any leadership in Hungary," provided they are not a "tool" of Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-never-said-iran-s-fm-denies-witkoff-s-claims-of-boasting-to-build-11-nuclear-bombs-slams-us-envoy-s-lack-of-knowledge-1773556763090">Araghchi denies Witkoff’s claim of boasting about building 11 nuclear bombs</a>&nbsp;The remarks came weeks after escalating friction with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who has recently blocked a €90 billion EU loan intended for Ukraine and has accused Kyiv of political sabotage regarding the closure of the Druzhba oil pipeline. The PM also seized Ukrainian bank vehicles carrying cash and gold, alleging a money-laundering investigation - a move Kyiv labelled as “hostage-taking.”

Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed concern that escalating US-Iran tensions could divert American support from Ukraine. To maintain relevance, Kyiv offered drone-defence expertise to Middle Eastern allies.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed grave concern on Sunday (March 15) that the escalating conflict between the US and Iran could distract Washington from Ukraine’s fight against Russia. Speaking to reporters in a briefing, the Ukrainian leader acknowledged that US officials are "without a doubt currently preoccupied with the Middle East." His comments come just two weeks after a series of US and Israeli strikes on Iranian military and energy infrastructure sparked a regional crisis. Ukraine offers drone expertise as ‘Trump card’ In an effort to remain a relevant ally, Zelensky revealed that Ukraine has deployed military expert teams to Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates to share hard-won experience in intercepting Iranian-made drones. Also read: ‘Anyone clothed by US is NAKED’: Iran official slams Gulf nations over US bases "We are showing our willingness to help the US and their allies in the Middle East," Zelensky said. "We strongly hope that... the United States will not turn its back on the question of the war in Ukraine,” he added. Ukraine has faced years of barrages from Iranian-designed Shahed drones launched by Russia, leading Kyiv to develop some of the world’s most cost-effective anti-drone tactics. But the American President Donald Trump has been publicly dismissive of the offer. Trump told reporters that the US has "the best drones in the world" and that Zelensky is "the last person the United States would need help from" in a fight against Iran. ‘Will work with any leadership...’ Beyond Washington, Zelensky addressed deteriorating relations with Budapest. He signalled a willingness to work with "any leadership in Hungary," provided they are not a "tool" of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Also read: Araghchi denies Witkoff’s claim of boasting about building 11 nuclear bombs The remarks came weeks after escalating friction with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who has recently blocked a €90 billion EU loan intended for Ukraine and has accused Kyiv of political sabotage regarding the closure of the Druzhba oil pipeline. The PM also seized Ukrainian bank vehicles carrying cash and gold, alleging a money-laundering investigation - a move Kyiv labelled as “hostage-taking.”

Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed concern that escalating US-Iran tensions could divert American support from Ukraine. To maintain relevance, Kyiv offered drone-defence expertise to Middle Eastern allies.

‘Don’t want to lose US backing because of Iran war,’ says Zelensky after Trump rejects his ‘help’

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