Oleksandr Pielieshenko, two-time European weightlifting champion and former Olympian from Ukraine, has died in the ongoing war against Russia. The news was confirmed by the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine in a social media post on Facebook on Monday (May 6). Pielieshenko had represented Ukraine in the 2016 Rio Olympics in 85kg light-heavyweight category and finished fourth.

"Eternal memory of the Angel of sports — Oleksandr Peleshenko. On May 5, an honored master of sports of Ukraine died in the war with the enemy; participant of the 2016 Olympic Games, where he took 4th place; two-time European weightlifting champion," read the post.

“From the first days of the full-scale invasion, Oleksandr joined the ranks of the Armed Forces. Yesterday we received the sad news of his death,” the committee’s Facebook post further said.

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Pielieshenko hadn't participated in any event since 2018 after he was suspended for eight years for failing a drug test.

The Ukrainian Weightlifting Association also shared a heartfelt condolence message on social media, which read: "It is with great sadness that we announce that today the heart of the honored master of sports of Ukraine, two-time European weightlifting champion Oleksandr Pielieshenko, stopped beating. We express our sincere condolences to the family and all who knew Oleksandr!"

Ukraine's weightlifting coach Viktor Slobodianiuk also wrote: "I express my sincere condolences to the family and relatives of Oleksandr! This is a very heavy loss for the entire weightlifting community of Ukraine. heroes do not die."

Pielieshenko is the first Olympian to have died in war against Russia which is in its third year. Russia had invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

The incident might cast a shadow on participation of Russian athletes in the upcoming Paris Olympics 2024. The Russian athletes were already asked to participate under the neutral flag at the event.

Oleksandr Pielieshenko, two-time European weightlifting champion and former Olympian from Ukraine, has died in the ongoing war against Russia. The news was confirmed by the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine in a social media post on Facebook on Monday (May 6).

Oleksandr Pielieshenko, two-time European weightlifting champion and former Olympian from Ukraine, has died in the ongoing war against Russia. The news was confirmed by the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine in a social media post on Facebook on Monday (May 6). Pielieshenko had represented Ukraine in the 2016 Rio Olympics in 85kg light-heavyweight category and finished fourth. "Eternal memory of the Angel of sports — Oleksandr Peleshenko. On May 5, an honored master of sports of Ukraine died in the war with the enemy; participant of the 2016 Olympic Games, where he took 4th place; two-time European weightlifting champion," read the post. “From the first days of the full-scale invasion, Oleksandr joined the ranks of the Armed Forces. Yesterday we received the sad news of his death,” the committee’s Facebook post further said. Also Read: 'It’s good...': Max Verstappen on Donald Trump's presence at Miami Grand Prix Pielieshenko hadn't participated in any event since 2018 after he was suspended for eight years for failing a drug test. The Ukrainian Weightlifting Association also shared a heartfelt condolence message on social media, which read: "It is with great sadness that we announce that today the heart of the honored master of sports of Ukraine, two-time European weightlifting champion Oleksandr Pielieshenko, stopped beating. We express our sincere condolences to the family and all who knew Oleksandr!" Ukraine's weightlifting coach Viktor Slobodianiuk also wrote: "I express my sincere condolences to the family and relatives of Oleksandr! This is a very heavy loss for the entire weightlifting community of Ukraine. heroes do not die." Pielieshenko is the first Olympian to have died in war against Russia which is in its third year. Russia had invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The incident might cast a shadow on participation of Russian athletes in the upcoming Paris Olympics 2024. The Russian athletes were already asked to participate under the neutral flag at the event.

Oleksandr Pielieshenko, Ukraine's Olympian weightlifter & European champion, dies in war against Russia

Russia on Monday said it that it could launch strikes at British military targets inside Ukraine and elsewhere if Kyiv's forces used British-supplied long-range missiles to strike Russia. The statement came after British Foreign Secretary David Cameron said during a visit to Ukraine that Kyiv "absolutely has the right to strike back at Russia". Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia threatens to strike British military facilities in Ukraine and beyond

Russia announced Monday it has started preparing for nuclear weapons exercises near Ukraine, accusing Western officials of making “provocative statements and threats" by deepening their support for Ukraine. Last week, French President Macron hinted at deploying French troops in Ukraine, while UK's David Cameron said that Ukraine had the right to use British weapons for strikes within Russia. WION's Shivan Chanana discusses with Ben Aris, Founder and Editor-in-chief of BNE IntelliNews and also former Moscow bureau chief for the Daily Telegraph.

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin orders nuclear drills in response to western escalations

Russia says that its troops stationed near Ukraine would run nuclear weapons drills and threatened to strike UK military targets outside the embattled country, citing what it said was an escalation in western Sabre-rattling.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia to practice tactical nuclear weapon scenario

Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered the Russian military to hold nuclear weapons drills involving the navy and troops based near Ukraine. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin orders troops to conduct drills near Ukraine base

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

<meta name="uuid" content="uuidTTlo9OBH3o1l" />Six people&nbsp;were reportedly killed&nbsp;and 35 others&nbsp;injured in Russia's&nbsp;frontier Belgorod region after the Ukrainian military launched a drone attack on cars carrying workers,&nbsp;Belgorod's Governor&nbsp;Vyacheslav Gladkov said on Monday (May 6).&nbsp;The Belgorod government said the two&nbsp;cars&nbsp;belonged to a meat production facility. &nbsp;

"Unfortunately, as a result of an explosion, six people died on the spot from their wounds.&nbsp;35&nbsp;people&nbsp;were injured&nbsp;near the village of Berezyovka," Governor Gladkov said. He added that&nbsp;one man was in serious condition&nbsp;and&nbsp;two children had superficial injuries.

The governor further said that&nbsp;a passenger vehicle&nbsp;was also damaged&nbsp;in the drone attack.

<h2>Monday's bombardment deadliest in weeks</h2>

Belgorod borders Ukraine and has&nbsp;been repeatedly attacked&nbsp;by Ukrainian artillery, drones, and proxies over the past year. In recent months, the region&nbsp;has come under an increasing number of fatal Ukrainian drone and missile attacks&nbsp;and&nbsp;Monday's bombardment was the deadliest in weeks, the news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

Ukraine denies targeting civilians and says it has the right to strike Russia, which says the West ignores Ukrainian attacks on civilians.

This attack in Belgorod came days after the Russian defence ministry said on April 28 that it&nbsp;shot down 17 Ukrainian drones overnight in several western regions.&nbsp;Most of the drones were shot down in&nbsp;regions&nbsp;that border Ukraine, with nine downed in Bryansk, three in Kursk, and two in Belgorod, according to the ministry.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos Six people were reportedly killed and 35 others injured in Russia's frontier Belgorod region after the Ukrainian military launched a drone attack on cars carrying workers, Belgorod's Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said on Monday (May 6).

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 Six people were reportedly killed and 35 others injured in Russia's frontier Belgorod region after the Ukrainian military launched a drone attack on cars carrying workers, Belgorod's Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said on Monday (May 6). The Belgorod government said the two cars belonged to a meat production facility. "Unfortunately, as a result of an explosion, six people died on the spot from their wounds. 35 people were injured near the village of Berezyovka," Governor Gladkov said. He added that one man was in serious condition and two children had superficial injuries. The governor further said that a passenger vehicle was also damaged in the drone attack. Monday's bombardment deadliest in weeks Belgorod borders Ukraine and has been repeatedly attacked by Ukrainian artillery, drones, and proxies over the past year. In recent months, the region has come under an increasing number of fatal Ukrainian drone and missile attacks and Monday's bombardment was the deadliest in weeks, the news agency AFP reported. Ukraine denies targeting civilians and says it has the right to strike Russia, which says the West ignores Ukrainian attacks on civilians. This attack in Belgorod came days after the Russian defence ministry said on April 28 that it shot down 17 Ukrainian drones overnight in several western regions. Most of the drones were shot down in regions that border Ukraine, with nine downed in Bryansk, three in Kursk, and two in Belgorod, according to the ministry. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: Six killed, 35 injured in Ukrainian drone attack in Russia's Belgorod region

The US has accused Russia of deploying chemical weapons in the Ukraine war. Reportedly, the banned chemical gas 'Chloropicrin' has been used as a 'method of warfare' in Ukraine.

What is Chloropicrin, World War 1 gas used by Russia against Ukrainian soldiers

Russia on Friday (May 3) sharply reacted to British Foreign Secretary David Cameron's statement that Ukraine could use British weapons against targets inside Russia if it wanted to.

Russia on Friday (May 3) sharply reacted to British Foreign Secretary David Cameron's statement that Ukraine could use British weapons against targets inside Russia if it wanted to. During a briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said, "On May 2, the former Prime Minister, current Foreign minister of Britain David Cameron during an interview with Reuters agency suddenly claimed that Ukraine has the right to perform strikes, as he said it, against the Russian territory, using British weapons. There was a formidable fuss in the world's media, British included." "Why so? Because it's the first time that a Western politician admitted something that is already an open secret to all the countries of the world's majority - the West is conducting a flat-out war against Russia with the hands of the Ukrainians," Zakharova added. Also read | Macron reaffirms he doesn't rule out troops for Ukraine Zakharova said that Moscow would respond if Ukraine launched strikes against Russian territory with British weapons. "How irresponsible and callous do you have to be not to realise what such statements lead to, especially with regard to countries with nuclear weapons? We always respond, but how can you not think about the feelings of British subjects and EU citizens," she further said. What did Cameron say? On Thursday (May 2), British Foreign Secretary Cameron promised $3.7 billion of annual military aid to Ukraine and said that London had no objection to its weapons being used inside Russia. "Ukraine has that right. Just as Russia is striking inside Ukraine, you can quite understand why Ukraine feels the need to make sure it's defending itself," Cameron told Reuters during a visit to Kyiv. Also watch | Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes × The British foreign secretary's remark put Britain in a more hawkish position towards Russia than the United States (US), which said that any weapons it supplies to Ukraine should only be used within Ukraine's internationally recognised borders rather than against targets inside Russia itself. Cameron's remark is dangerous: Kremlin Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov described Cameron's comments as dangerous. "This is a direct escalation of tension around the Ukrainian conflict, which could potentially pose a danger to European security, to the entire European security architecture," Peskov said. "This is where we see such a dangerous trend of escalating tension in official statements. This is a cause for our concern," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

West is waging hybrid war...: Russia reacts to Cameron's statement on UK arms for Ukraine

The Russian military said that an exhibition on Wednesday in Moscow featured Western tanks and military hardware that it had acquired during its invasion of Ukraine, proving that assistance from the West would not prevent it from winning the conflict. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia displays Western tanks captured in Ukraine war

Ukrainian forces near the besieged Eastern stronghold of Chasiv Yar are staring at a full-blown Russian onslaught as they defend the city. They says they are still waiting for fresh ammunition after the United States approved a major military aid package, amid intensifying attacks from Russian troops and drones. Watch in for more details!

Ukraine war: Ukrainian forces try to hold Russians from capturing Chasiv Yar

Russia has intensified its offensive in the eastern Ukrainian region even after the US Congress approved $61 billion in military aid to Ukraine. Recently, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that vital US weapons were starting to arrive in the country in small amounts, but Kyiv continues to struggle as Moscow has begun using new powerful guided aerial bombs to devastating effect in its attacks in recent weeks. Meanwhile, Zelensky has urged that the process needed to move faster as advancing Russian forces are taking advantage.&nbsp;

Zelensky held a joint news conference in Kyiv alongside visiting NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg earlier this week on Monday. He noted that the situation on the battlefield directly depended on the speed of ammunition supplies to Ukraine.&nbsp;

"Timely support for our army. Today I don't see anything positive on this point yet. There are supplies, they have slightly begun, this process needs to be sped up," he said.&nbsp;

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In the latest development, Ukrainian officials said that five people were killed on Wednesday (May 1) during a Russian attack on the Kharkiv and Donetsk regions.&nbsp;

The region's governor said that a guided bomb attack killed two people in the northeastern Kharkiv region bordering Russia. The eastern region has been under near-constant bombardment from Russian artillery. Notably, large parts have been occupied by Russian forces for months.&nbsp;

Kharkiv regional governor Oleg Synegubov said on national television on Wednesday morning that "two guided aerial bombs hit the centre of the town of Zolochiv," around 15 kilometres from the Russian border.&nbsp;

He wrote on Telegram, "We know of two dead and six injured civilians including an 11-year-old boy." Synegubov said that a man and a woman were killed in one car.&nbsp;

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Russian shelling killed a 67-year-old woman in the village of Lelyukivka, which is further east in the Kharkiv region close to the city of Kupiansk.&nbsp;

Vadym Filashkin, the head of the region's military administration, said that in the eastern Donetsk region, two people were killed and six injured in the small town of Girnyk, about 15 kilometres from the front line.&nbsp;

"The Russians attacked the town with Uragans this afternoon," Filashkin wrote on Telegram, referring to rocket launchers. Those killed were a 57-year-old woman and a 64-year-old man, he added.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Chasiv Yar under heavy Russian bombardment for months

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<h2>Moscow orders more weapons&nbsp;</h2>

In a report on Wednesday, the news agency Reuters reported that the Russian defence minister, Sergei Shoigu, has ordered more&nbsp;and swifter&nbsp;delivery of weapons.&nbsp;

The Russian defence ministry wrote on Telegram that the chief of the general staff, Valery Gerasimov, delivered a report to Shoigu at a meeting with the top military command for Moscow’s fight in Ukraine.&nbsp;

"To maintain the required pace of the offensive… it is necessary to increase the volume and quality of weapons and military equipment supplied to the troops, primarily weapons," the report cited Shoigu as saying in a statement posted on Telegram.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russia has intensified its offensive in the eastern Ukrainian region even after the US Congress approved $61 billion in military aid to Ukraine. Recently, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that vital US weapons were starting to arrive in the country in small amounts, but Kyiv continues to struggle as Moscow has begun using new powerful guided aerial bombs to devastating effect in its attacks in recent weeks.

Russia has intensified its offensive in the eastern Ukrainian region even after the US Congress approved $61 billion in military aid to Ukraine. Recently, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that vital US weapons were starting to arrive in the country in small amounts, but Kyiv continues to struggle as Moscow has begun using new powerful guided aerial bombs to devastating effect in its attacks in recent weeks. Meanwhile, Zelensky has urged that the process needed to move faster as advancing Russian forces are taking advantage. Zelensky held a joint news conference in Kyiv alongside visiting NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg earlier this week on Monday. He noted that the situation on the battlefield directly depended on the speed of ammunition supplies to Ukraine. "Timely support for our army. Today I don't see anything positive on this point yet. There are supplies, they have slightly begun, this process needs to be sped up," he said. Also read: Georgia parliament backs ‘foreign agent’ bill second reading amid protests In the latest development, Ukrainian officials said that five people were killed on Wednesday (May 1) during a Russian attack on the Kharkiv and Donetsk regions. The region's governor said that a guided bomb attack killed two people in the northeastern Kharkiv region bordering Russia. The eastern region has been under near-constant bombardment from Russian artillery. Notably, large parts have been occupied by Russian forces for months. Kharkiv regional governor Oleg Synegubov said on national television on Wednesday morning that "two guided aerial bombs hit the centre of the town of Zolochiv," around 15 kilometres from the Russian border. He wrote on Telegram, "We know of two dead and six injured civilians including an 11-year-old boy." Synegubov said that a man and a woman were killed in one car. Also read: Blinken meets Israeli PM Netanyahu, talks about Gaza aid, ceasefire and more Russian shelling killed a 67-year-old woman in the village of Lelyukivka, which is further east in the Kharkiv region close to the city of Kupiansk. Vadym Filashkin, the head of the region's military administration, said that in the eastern Donetsk region, two people were killed and six injured in the small town of Girnyk, about 15 kilometres from the front line. "The Russians attacked the town with Uragans this afternoon," Filashkin wrote on Telegram, referring to rocket launchers. Those killed were a 57-year-old woman and a 64-year-old man, he added. Watch: Chasiv Yar under heavy Russian bombardment for months × Moscow orders more weapons In a report on Wednesday, the news agency Reuters reported that the Russian defence minister, Sergei Shoigu, has ordered more and swifter delivery of weapons. The Russian defence ministry wrote on Telegram that the chief of the general staff, Valery Gerasimov, delivered a report to Shoigu at a meeting with the top military command for Moscow’s fight in Ukraine. "To maintain the required pace of the offensive… it is necessary to increase the volume and quality of weapons and military equipment supplied to the troops, primarily weapons," the report cited Shoigu as saying in a statement posted on Telegram. 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)

Russia intensifies attacks in Ukraine's east, five killed

Russia-Ukraine War: How long can Ukraine defend itself?

Russia-Ukraine War: Chasiv Yar under heavy Russian bombardment for months

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukrainian forces try to hold Russians from capturing Chasiv Yar

Russia and Ukraine have turned to improvised armor solutions to give their tanks extra protection. Russia has unveiled a strange-looking, albeit apparently effective, innovation that has been referred to by some Ukraine war observers as the "turtle tank." Watch in to know more about the tank!

Turtle Tank: Russians unveil effective innovation on Ukraine battlefield

A fire broke out at a turreted Gothic-style building in Odesa on Monday after a Russian missile attack hit the southern port city, leaving at least four people dead. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Fire rips through Odesa building after Russian missile strike

According to Ukraine's top commander, Russia has concentrated considerable forces in various sites on the eastern front, west of three villages, where Kyiv's outnumbered troops withdrew to new positions.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russia claims gains of another Ukrainian village as Ukraine pulls back in east

Ukraine’s top commander said Kyiv’s outnumbered troops had fallen back to new positions west of three villages on the eastern front where Russia has concentrated significant forces in several locations. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine pulls back from three villages in East

According to the head of Ukraine's military, the situation on the front lines has gotten worse as a result of many Russian attacks. Ukrainian military, according to Oleksandr Syrskyi, have left their positions in the eastern Donetsk region.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russia makes more gain around Avdiivka, ramps up attack on Ukraine

Oleksandr Taran's mobile artillery unit, the Steppe Wolves, is comprised of dozens of Ukrainian men mostly over 60 years old who are considered too old to be drafted but still want to fight against Russia. Watch in for more details!

Ukrainian 'Grandpa' leads over-60s unit fighting Russian forces for free

The Kremlin is set to showcase captured Ukrainian and Western weapons in Moscow in a move seen as a provocative gesture amid Russia’s ongoing full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Kremlin to showcase captured western weapons in Moscow

Vladimir Putin’s forces have made further gains in at least three locations along the eastern front in Ukraine – including for the first time in several months an advance in the northern Kharkiv region – again highlighting Kyiv’s need for ammunition and weapons from the United States and other allies. Russia’s tactical advances are now daily and reflect the new tempo on the battlefield since the fall of the industrial town of Avdiivka in February. Is Russia gaining tempo ahead of the arrival of U.S. weapons? WION's Shivan Chanana discusses with Dr. Sergey Markov, former spokesman for Russian president Putin, former member of the Russian parliament and director of the institute of political studies and Russian political scientist

Ukraine war: Russia makes more gains around Avdiivka | Situation worsens for Ukraine

Ukraine’s top commander, on Sunday (Apr 28) said that its troops were forced to fall back to new positions west of three villages on the eastern front where Russia has recently ramped up attacks and concentrated significant forces on several locations.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a fresh plea calling on the international community to deliver more air defences, begin talks for Ukraine to become a part of the European Union, and for the war-torn country to join NATO.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Most difficult’</h2>

In a statement on Sunday, Ukraine’s Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi addressed the worsening situation of Kyiv’s forces on the country’s eastern front and also expressed hope that it can stabilise it once the United States delivers more weapons as a part of its $61 billion aid package approved this week.

WATCH |&nbsp;US announces new Patriot missiles for&nbsp;Ukraine

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“The situation at the front has worsened,” said Syrskyi, in a post on Telegram. He described west of the occupied Ukrainian city Maryinka and northwest of Avdiivka, a town captured by the Russian forces after months of intense fighting in February, as “most difficult” areas.&nbsp;

Ukrainian troops have now taken a new position in the west of the villages of Berdychi and Semenivka, both of which are north of Avdiivka, and Novomykhailivka.&nbsp;

He noted that while Russian forces have generally “achieved certain tactical successes in these areas,” they could not “gain operational advantages.”

In a possibly concerning development, Syrskiy also said that the Ukrainian forces are also closely monitoring a build-up of Russian troops near Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city.&nbsp;

<h2>Moscow claims to have captured village</h2>

Ukraine’s top commander in his statement did not respond to Russia’s claims about Novobakhmutivka, another village near Berdychi, which the Russian defence ministry on Sunday, said its forces have captured.

“As the result of active operations, the ‘Centrer’ troop unit liberated the village of Novobakhmutivka in the Donetsk People’s Republic,” said the ministry in its daily briefing.&nbsp;

The village is around 10 kilometres north of Avdiivka, the town which witnessed one of the bloodiest battles of the two-year conflict.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-netanyahu-review-hostage-release-talks-in-new-call-white-house-716046">Biden, Netanyahu review hostage-release talks in new call: White House</a>

According to reports, Russia has been slowly advancing since capturing the bastion town and has taken advantage of Ukrainian shortages of artillery shells and manpower.

<h2>Zelensky issues fresh plea</h2>

In his nightly address on Sunday, the Ukrainian president also called for more air defence systems, particularly the Patriot system.&nbsp;

Zelensky also said that he had spoken to US House Minority leader Hakeem Jeffries and thanked Congress for passing the $61 billion aid package.&nbsp;

“We are still waiting for the supplies Ukraine was promised,” said the Ukrainian president, adding that Kyiv is “expecting those volumes and scope that can change the situation on the battlefield in Ukraine’s interests.”

Zelensky also said that Ukraine has met all the conditions set by the EU to begin the accession talks and now the 27-nation bloc “must meet its obligations.”&nbsp;

Since the beginning of the Russian invasion, Ukraine has received strong backing from the European nations to join the bloc, but the process could take years.

About the entry to NATO, Zelensky said every country that shares common values and is ready to defend them “deserves an invitation to the alliance.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukraine’s top commander, on Sunday (Apr 28) said that its troops were forced to fall back to new positions west of three villages on the eastern front where Russia has recently ramped up attacks and concentrated significant forces on several locations.

Ukraine’s top commander, on Sunday (Apr 28) said that its troops were forced to fall back to new positions west of three villages on the eastern front where Russia has recently ramped up attacks and concentrated significant forces on several locations. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a fresh plea calling on the international community to deliver more air defences, begin talks for Ukraine to become a part of the European Union, and for the war-torn country to join NATO. ‘Most difficult’ In a statement on Sunday, Ukraine’s Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi addressed the worsening situation of Kyiv’s forces on the country’s eastern front and also expressed hope that it can stabilise it once the United States delivers more weapons as a part of its $61 billion aid package approved this week. WATCH | US announces new Patriot missiles for Ukraine “The situation at the front has worsened,” said Syrskyi, in a post on Telegram. He described west of the occupied Ukrainian city Maryinka and northwest of Avdiivka, a town captured by the Russian forces after months of intense fighting in February, as “most difficult” areas. Ukrainian troops have now taken a new position in the west of the villages of Berdychi and Semenivka, both of which are north of Avdiivka, and Novomykhailivka. He noted that while Russian forces have generally “achieved certain tactical successes in these areas,” they could not “gain operational advantages.” In a possibly concerning development, Syrskiy also said that the Ukrainian forces are also closely monitoring a build-up of Russian troops near Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city. Moscow claims to have captured village Ukraine’s top commander in his statement did not respond to Russia’s claims about Novobakhmutivka, another village near Berdychi, which the Russian defence ministry on Sunday, said its forces have captured. “As the result of active operations, the ‘Centrer’ troop unit liberated the village of Novobakhmutivka in the Donetsk People’s Republic,” said the ministry in its daily briefing. The village is around 10 kilometres north of Avdiivka, the town which witnessed one of the bloodiest battles of the two-year conflict. Also Read | Biden, Netanyahu review hostage-release talks in new call: White House According to reports, Russia has been slowly advancing since capturing the bastion town and has taken advantage of Ukrainian shortages of artillery shells and manpower. Zelensky issues fresh plea In his nightly address on Sunday, the Ukrainian president also called for more air defence systems, particularly the Patriot system. Zelensky also said that he had spoken to US House Minority leader Hakeem Jeffries and thanked Congress for passing the $61 billion aid package. “We are still waiting for the supplies Ukraine was promised,” said the Ukrainian president, adding that Kyiv is “expecting those volumes and scope that can change the situation on the battlefield in Ukraine’s interests.” Zelensky also said that Ukraine has met all the conditions set by the EU to begin the accession talks and now the 27-nation bloc “must meet its obligations.” Since the beginning of the Russian invasion, Ukraine has received strong backing from the European nations to join the bloc, but the process could take years. About the entry to NATO, Zelensky said every country that shares common values and is ready to defend them “deserves an invitation to the alliance.” (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukrainian forces pull back from 3 villages on eastern front; Zelensky issues fresh plea

The commander in chief of Ukraine claims that Russia has gathered significant forces at several locations along the eastern front, west of three villages, where the outnumbered troops of Kyiv withdrew to take up new positions.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russian troops take control of key positions while advancing further into Ukrainian villages

The European union has criticised Russia for putting subsidiaries of one Italian and one German company under the "temporary external management" of a Gazprom entity. The multilateral organisation said the move underscored Moscow's disregard for international norms.

Two firms put under 'temporary external management' of Gazprom

The US Sells itself as a global hero that upholds democracy and liberty. But beneath the facade lurks a dark truth. For years, the US Has profited from foreign misery. Wars abroad, fueled by billions in military aid, line the pockets of a privileged few. Conflicts in Europe and Asia are just the latest cases. This next report sheds light on how the American war machine turns human suffering into profit. Watch in for more details!

American businesses benefit from Ukraine war

Three global conflicts- the Israel-Iran proxy war, the Israel-Hamas war, and the Russia-Ukraine war have caused havoc. Conscription is becoming a necessity amid a shortage of regular troops. However, citizens are finding ways to avoid the mandatory military service. With civilians in strong disagreement to pick up arms, will war-hit Israel and Ukraine rely on Private Military Contractors (PMCs)? WION Decodes the story.

Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes

Peace vs Profits: How conflicts help the US economy grow?

The US Congress this week passed the long awaited $95 billion legistation providing aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan. But, reports are now emerging that 80% of the this aid package will be spent by the United States or by its military. Watch in for more details!

US using aid package to boost its economy? | Understanding arc of US military aid support

Russia on Friday (Apr 26) said that it had used missiles and artillery to target railway infrastructure and Western arms being transported by rail in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Moscow's defence ministry said that its forces had hit "Western weapons and military equipment" being transported by railway a day earlier in the Donetsk region. The ministry added that Russia also targeted railway facilities in the Kharkiv region.&nbsp;

The development comes after United States President Joe Biden earlier this week signed legislation authorising military aid for Ukraine for its fight against Russia. Biden said that Washington would start sending military aid to the war-torn nation within hours.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/forbes-russia-journalist-arrested-for-allegedly-spreading-fake-news-about-russian-army-715312">Forbes Russia journalist detained for allegedly spreading 'fake news' about Russian army</a>&nbsp;

The US president signed the bill into law after the US Senate voted on Tuesday to approve $95 billion in aid for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan.&nbsp;The bill was passed after months of delay that saw Ukrainian forces run short of ammunition. Kyiv claimed that it was in desperate need of military aid amid Russian aggression.&nbsp;

Russia's account was confirmed by a Kyiv intelligence source on Friday that Moscow is targeting Ukrainian rail lines with airstrikes to disrupt the delivery of desperately needed US weapons to the front and complicate military logistics.&nbsp;

The national rail company said on Thursday that the Ukrainian rail infrastructure was targeted by Russian strikes in the eastern Donetsk region, northeastern Kharkiv region and central Cherkasy region.&nbsp;

It said that the attack in Donetsk killed three electrical mechanics working for the railway company and wounded four more. Donetsk is the main focus of Russia's offensive in the east.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Vladimir Putin announces he will visit China next month&nbsp;

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<h2>Zelensky calls for air defence systems&nbsp;</h2>

Amid Russian advances, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday called for additional air defence systems to be sent to Kyiv in its fight against Moscow.&nbsp;

At the start of a virtual meeting led by the United States on helping arm Ukraine, Zelensky said, "This year, Russian jets (have) already used more than 9,000 guided aerial bombs against Ukraine and we need the ability to shoot down the air combat aircraft so that they do not approach our positions and borders."&nbsp;

"While we were waiting for a decision on the American support, the Russian army managed to seize the initiative on the battlefield," Zelensky said.

"We can still now, not only stabilize the front but also move forward achieving our Ukrainian goals in the war," he added.&nbsp;

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)&nbsp;

Russia on Friday (Apr 26) said that it had used missiles and artillery to target railway infrastructure and Western arms being transported by rail in Ukraine. Moscow's defence ministry said that its forces had hit "Western weapons and military equipment" being transported by railway a day earlier in the Donetsk region.

Russia on Friday (Apr 26) said that it had used missiles and artillery to target railway infrastructure and Western arms being transported by rail in Ukraine. Moscow's defence ministry said that its forces had hit "Western weapons and military equipment" being transported by railway a day earlier in the Donetsk region. The ministry added that Russia also targeted railway facilities in the Kharkiv region. The development comes after United States President Joe Biden earlier this week signed legislation authorising military aid for Ukraine for its fight against Russia. Biden said that Washington would start sending military aid to the war-torn nation within hours. Also read: Forbes Russia journalist detained for allegedly spreading 'fake news' about Russian army The US president signed the bill into law after the US Senate voted on Tuesday to approve $95 billion in aid for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan. The bill was passed after months of delay that saw Ukrainian forces run short of ammunition. Kyiv claimed that it was in desperate need of military aid amid Russian aggression. Russia's account was confirmed by a Kyiv intelligence source on Friday that Moscow is targeting Ukrainian rail lines with airstrikes to disrupt the delivery of desperately needed US weapons to the front and complicate military logistics. The national rail company said on Thursday that the Ukrainian rail infrastructure was targeted by Russian strikes in the eastern Donetsk region, northeastern Kharkiv region and central Cherkasy region. It said that the attack in Donetsk killed three electrical mechanics working for the railway company and wounded four more. Donetsk is the main focus of Russia's offensive in the east. Watch: Vladimir Putin announces he will visit China next month × Zelensky calls for air defence systems Amid Russian advances, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday called for additional air defence systems to be sent to Kyiv in its fight against Moscow. At the start of a virtual meeting led by the United States on helping arm Ukraine, Zelensky said, "This year, Russian jets (have) already used more than 9,000 guided aerial bombs against Ukraine and we need the ability to shoot down the air combat aircraft so that they do not approach our positions and borders." "While we were waiting for a decision on the American support, the Russian army managed to seize the initiative on the battlefield," Zelensky said. "We can still now, not only stabilize the front but also move forward achieving our Ukrainian goals in the war," he added. 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)

Russia claims it struck Western arms being transported in Ukraine by rail

Ukraine has quietly withdrawn its American Abrams tanks from the front line to avoid the growing threat from Russian drones. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine pulls back US-provided Abrams tanks from front lines

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