Russia has made a targeted attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, hitting multiple sites before dawn on Friday in the second consecutive day of major missile strikes on the country.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia targets Ukraine’s energy infrastructure in missile strikes

Russia has warned the US regarding the use of SpaceX satellites are Force spying. The Elon Musk's spacecraft company recently signed a $1.8 billion defense contract with the Pentagon. Watch in for more details!

Russia: Use of SpaceX for spying makes US satellites a target

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Mar 19) urged the allies to supply more air defences, claiming that Russia had launched 130 missiles, more than 320 attack drones and almost 900 guided bombs in attacks this month alone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky's appeal comes on the day when US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin warned that Ukraine's survival was in danger. He also sought to convince allies that the US was committed to Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Austin is leading the monthly meeting known as the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG), held at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, of about 50 allies that have been militarily supporting Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-mayor-eric-adams-accused-of-sexual-assault-by-former-employee-who-sought-career-help-701826">New York Mayor Eric Adams accused of sexual assault by former employee who sought career help</a></strong></p>

<p>In a press conference after the meeting, he said, "Ukraine's survival is in danger. Our allies and partners continue to step up, the United States must also."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the war against Russia, which started on February 24, 2022, Kyiv has relied heavily on foreign military aid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid waning aid and military assistance, a major aid package from the US, which is a close wartime ally, has been blocked by congressional Republicans for months.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also re ad:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/european-start-ups-navigate-complex-debt-deals-amid-funding-downturn-701799">European start-ups navigate complex debt deals amid funding downturn</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>On social media platform X, Zelensky said, "We require more protection, specifically a fully realistic number of air defence systems that our partners possess."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Patriots and other systems must do what they were designed for: protect lives, not collect dust in storage," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian president said that Ukraine's air force has "demonstrated that it is capable of successfully shooting down" missiles, drones and Russian military aircraft.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Every day and night, Russia uses drones, missiles, and guided bombs to wage a terrorist war against our people, against ordinary Ukrainian cities and villages.<br />
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Since the beginning of March, Russian troops have used 130 different types of missiles, over 320 "Shahed" drones, and… <a href="https://t.co/pZTm3n2V0r">pic.twitter.com/pZTm3n2V0r</a></p>
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1770054087108677860?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Ukrainian defence ministry said that a Ukrainian delegation prioritised securing more air defence systems and missiles at a meeting of allied defence ministers in Germany's Ramstein air base on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the past few weeks, Russian troops have stepped up their use of highly destructive guided bombs in recent months, targeting battlefield positions and regions close to the front line.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson said in February that Russia had launched more than 8,000 missiles and 4,630 drones during the invasion to date.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine on NATO membership&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine's foreign minister said on Tuesday that the nation is working to secure "a strong and far-reaching step" towards membership of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) at the military alliance's Washington summit in July.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On being asked about Ukraine's goals for the Washington summit during an online news conference, top diplomat Dmytro Kuleba said that there was "very active engagement" with NATO's leadership and allies. However, he added that he would not go into detail about the deliberations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We think that Ukraine meets the main criteria of membership, which is the capacity to defend NATO borders. That's what we are doing by defending Ukraine," he told reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"...let me say this, we are working hard to make a strong and far-reaching step towards Ukrainian membership in NATO at the Washington summit," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Mar 19) urged the allies to supply more air defences, claiming that Russia had launched 130 missiles, more than 320 attack drones and almost 900 guided bombs in attacks this month alone.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Mar 19) urged the allies to supply more air defences, claiming that Russia had launched 130 missiles, more than 320 attack drones and almost 900 guided bombs in attacks this month alone. Zelensky's appeal comes on the day when US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin warned that Ukraine's survival was in danger. He also sought to convince allies that the US was committed to Kyiv. Austin is leading the monthly meeting known as the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG), held at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, of about 50 allies that have been militarily supporting Ukraine. Also read: New York Mayor Eric Adams accused of sexual assault by former employee who sought career help In a press conference after the meeting, he said, "Ukraine's survival is in danger. Our allies and partners continue to step up, the United States must also." In the war against Russia, which started on February 24, 2022, Kyiv has relied heavily on foreign military aid. Amid waning aid and military assistance, a major aid package from the US, which is a close wartime ally, has been blocked by congressional Republicans for months. Also re ad: European start-ups navigate complex debt deals amid funding downturn On social media platform X, Zelensky said, "We require more protection, specifically a fully realistic number of air defence systems that our partners possess." "Patriots and other systems must do what they were designed for: protect lives, not collect dust in storage," he added. The Ukrainian president said that Ukraine's air force has "demonstrated that it is capable of successfully shooting down" missiles, drones and Russian military aircraft. Every day and night, Russia uses drones, missiles, and guided bombs to wage a terrorist war against our people, against ordinary Ukrainian cities and villages. Since the beginning of March, Russian troops have used 130 different types of missiles, over 320 "Shahed" drones, and… pic.twitter.com/pZTm3n2V0r — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) March 19, 2024 × The Ukrainian defence ministry said that a Ukrainian delegation prioritised securing more air defence systems and missiles at a meeting of allied defence ministers in Germany's Ramstein air base on Tuesday. In the past few weeks, Russian troops have stepped up their use of highly destructive guided bombs in recent months, targeting battlefield positions and regions close to the front line. A Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson said in February that Russia had launched more than 8,000 missiles and 4,630 drones during the invasion to date. Ukraine on NATO membership Ukraine's foreign minister said on Tuesday that the nation is working to secure "a strong and far-reaching step" towards membership of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) at the military alliance's Washington summit in July. On being asked about Ukraine's goals for the Washington summit during an online news conference, top diplomat Dmytro Kuleba said that there was "very active engagement" with NATO's leadership and allies. However, he added that he would not go into detail about the deliberations. "We think that Ukraine meets the main criteria of membership, which is the capacity to defend NATO borders. That's what we are doing by defending Ukraine," he told reporters. "...let me say this, we are working hard to make a strong and far-reaching step towards Ukrainian membership in NATO at the Washington summit," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine claims 1,350 air attacks in March so far, seeks support; US says Kyiv survival in ‘danger’

Russian President Vladimir Putin in his election victory speech, has warned that presence of Western troops in Ukraine could push the world to the brink of World War 3.

Putin: Russia-NATO conflict is just a step away World War III

Russian President Vladimir Putin says his country won’t relent in its invasion of Ukraine and has announced plans for a buffer zone to protect against long-range Ukrainian strikes and cross-border raids.

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin says Russia aims to set up buffer zone inside Ukraine

<p>The Ukrainian military launched 35 drones against broad areas of Russia, sparking a brief fire at an oil refinery, targeting Moscow, and disrupting electricity in border areas, Russian officials said early Sunday (Mar 17). In a post on Telegram, the Russian defence ministry said that 17 drones were destroyed over the Krasnodar region, four over the Moscow region, and the rest over six other regions.</p>

<p>According to the operational headquarters of Krasnodar, the drones were neutralised but a fire broke out as a result of the fall of one of the devices. The fire at the Slavyansk refinery in Krasnodar was extinguished and there were no casualties, a report by the news agency Reuters said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-presidential-polls-2024-moscow-accuses-ukraine-of-election-sabotage-700971">Russia presidential polls 2024: Moscow accuses Ukraine of election sabotage</a></strong></p>

<p>In a separate post on Telegram, Roman Siniagovskyi, head of the Slavyansk administrative district, said that refinery workers were evacuated and there was no threat to nearby areas from the incident.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Ukrainian Armed Force have Struck their 6th Oil Refinery and Depot within the past week tonight, with several One-Way “Suicide” Drones having Impacted a Large Oil Refinery on the Outskirts of Slavyansk-on-Kuban in the Krasnodar Krai Region of Southwestern Russia; according to… <a href="https://t.co/4bkOge7qlH">pic.twitter.com/4bkOge7qlH</a></p>
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) <a href="https://twitter.com/sentdefender/status/1769187586327593262?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said there were no casualties or damage reported from the drones shot down over three districts near Moscow. North of Moscow four drones were destroyed over the Yaroslavl region, with no damage or injuries reported, Yaroslavl's Governor Mikhail Yevrayev said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In Belgorod, an attack by four Ukraine-launched drones damaged electricity and gas lines in one village, according to Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov.</p>

<p>In his nightly video address on Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked the military for new "long-range capabilities" but did not mention the reported attacks.</p>

<p>The attacks came as Russia was holding its third and final day of presidential elections. Russia has been accusing Ukraine of using air attacks to try to sabotage the polls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of trying to disrupt the polls with its intensified drone and missile attacks inside Russia and on Moscow-held territory in Ukraine.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Ukrainian military launched 35 drones against broad areas of Russia, sparking a brief fire at an oil refinery, targeting Moscow, and disrupting electricity in border areas, Russian officials said early Sunday (Mar 17).

The Ukrainian military launched 35 drones against broad areas of Russia, sparking a brief fire at an oil refinery, targeting Moscow, and disrupting electricity in border areas, Russian officials said early Sunday (Mar 17). In a post on Telegram, the Russian defence ministry said that 17 drones were destroyed over the Krasnodar region, four over the Moscow region, and the rest over six other regions. According to the operational headquarters of Krasnodar, the drones were neutralised but a fire broke out as a result of the fall of one of the devices. The fire at the Slavyansk refinery in Krasnodar was extinguished and there were no casualties, a report by the news agency Reuters said. Also read | Russia presidential polls 2024: Moscow accuses Ukraine of election sabotage In a separate post on Telegram, Roman Siniagovskyi, head of the Slavyansk administrative district, said that refinery workers were evacuated and there was no threat to nearby areas from the incident. The Ukrainian Armed Force have Struck their 6th Oil Refinery and Depot within the past week tonight, with several One-Way “Suicide” Drones having Impacted a Large Oil Refinery on the Outskirts of Slavyansk-on-Kuban in the Krasnodar Krai Region of Southwestern Russia; according to… pic.twitter.com/4bkOge7qlH — OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) March 17, 2024 × Meanwhile, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said there were no casualties or damage reported from the drones shot down over three districts near Moscow. North of Moscow four drones were destroyed over the Yaroslavl region, with no damage or injuries reported, Yaroslavl's Governor Mikhail Yevrayev said. In Belgorod, an attack by four Ukraine-launched drones damaged electricity and gas lines in one village, according to Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov. In his nightly video address on Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked the military for new "long-range capabilities" but did not mention the reported attacks. The attacks came as Russia was holding its third and final day of presidential elections. Russia has been accusing Ukraine of using air attacks to try to sabotage the polls. On Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of trying to disrupt the polls with its intensified drone and missile attacks inside Russia and on Moscow-held territory in Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine drone attacks spark fire at oil refinery in Russia, disrupt power in border areas

Ukraine launched a sweeping drone attack on Russian regions on Wednesday, causing a fire at Rosneft's biggest oil refinery in what President Vladimir Putin said was an attempt to disrupt Russia's presidential election.

Russia-Ukraine War | Ukrainian drones strike Rosneft's biggest refinery, says Russia

<p>The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) secretary general Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday (Mar 14) said that the member nations must step up sending arms to Ukraine as&nbsp;Kyiv is running out of ammunition in its war against Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Stoltenberg's comment underlines the current state of the war, as he said that the NATO allies had the capacity to provide more to Ukraine but needed to show the political will to do so.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a press conference, Stoltenberg said, "NATO allies are not providing Ukraine with enough ammunition and that has consequences on the battlefield every day."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/denmark-to-start-conscripting-women-for-military-service-700114">Denmark to start conscripting women for military service</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>He mentioned that Russians able to dominate the Ukrainians is a huge challenge and shortage of ammunition is one of the reasons why Moscow has been able to make advances on the battlefield over the last weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Therefore it is an urgent need for allies to make the decisions necessary to step up, provide more ammunition to Ukraine," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several ground reports have claimed that Ukraine's military has recently been grappling with significantly reduced weapons supplies from the West more than two years after the war started.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-urges-citizens-including-annexed-ukrainians-to-vote-as-moldova-accuses-russia-of-breaking-laws-699893">Russia election 2024: Putin urges citizens to vote even as Moldova accuses Moscow of breaking laws</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Ukrainian drones target Russian oil facilities&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>NATO chief on Russian election</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Stoltenberg further added that any attempt to organise Russian elections in occupied regions of Ukraine would be illegal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "(Russian) President (Vladimir) Putin has held power in Russia for decades. No one expects Russia's elections this week to bring any change in the Kremlin. And of course, Russia's attempts to organise any part of an election in occupied regions of Ukraine are completely illegal, violating international law."&nbsp;</p>

<p>President Vladimir Putin is in all probability expected&nbsp;to win a new six-year term in the March 15-17 vote. This would enable him to overtake Josef Stalin to become Russia's longest-serving leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Kyiv has slammed the polls with&nbsp;Ukrainian Foreign Ministry&nbsp;on Thursday saying that Russia's staging of elections in occupied territories of Ukraine is illegal and void. The ministry urged international partners not to recognise the results.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It further said that the electoral campaign in&nbsp;Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, all partially controlled by Russia, as well as Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, was another demonstration of Moscow's "continued flagrant disregard for international law norms and principles".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) secretary general Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday (Mar 14) said that the member nations must step up sending arms to Ukraine as Kyiv is running out of ammunition in its war against Russia.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) secretary general Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday (Mar 14) said that the member nations must step up sending arms to Ukraine as Kyiv is running out of ammunition in its war against Russia. Stoltenberg's comment underlines the current state of the war, as he said that the NATO allies had the capacity to provide more to Ukraine but needed to show the political will to do so. During a press conference, Stoltenberg said, "NATO allies are not providing Ukraine with enough ammunition and that has consequences on the battlefield every day." Also read: Denmark to start conscripting women for military service He mentioned that Russians able to dominate the Ukrainians is a huge challenge and shortage of ammunition is one of the reasons why Moscow has been able to make advances on the battlefield over the last weeks. "Therefore it is an urgent need for allies to make the decisions necessary to step up, provide more ammunition to Ukraine," he added. Several ground reports have claimed that Ukraine's military has recently been grappling with significantly reduced weapons supplies from the West more than two years after the war started. Also read: Russia election 2024: Putin urges citizens to vote even as Moldova accuses Moscow of breaking laws Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Ukrainian drones target Russian oil facilities × NATO chief on Russian election Stoltenberg further added that any attempt to organise Russian elections in occupied regions of Ukraine would be illegal. He said, "(Russian) President (Vladimir) Putin has held power in Russia for decades. No one expects Russia's elections this week to bring any change in the Kremlin. And of course, Russia's attempts to organise any part of an election in occupied regions of Ukraine are completely illegal, violating international law." President Vladimir Putin is in all probability expected to win a new six-year term in the March 15-17 vote. This would enable him to overtake Josef Stalin to become Russia's longest-serving leader. Meanwhile, Kyiv has slammed the polls with Ukrainian Foreign Ministry on Thursday saying that Russia's staging of elections in occupied territories of Ukraine is illegal and void. The ministry urged international partners not to recognise the results. It further said that the electoral campaign in Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, all partially controlled by Russia, as well as Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, was another demonstration of Moscow's "continued flagrant disregard for international law norms and principles". (With inputs from agencies)

NATO's Jens Stoltenberg urges allies to step up delivery of weapons to Ukraine

Just days before Russia's presidential election Ukrainian long range drones smashed into two oil facilities deep inside Russia. While an armed incursion claimed by Ukraine based Russian opponents of the Kremlin unnerved a border region.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukrainian drones target Russian oil facilities

Ukraine has launched a barrage of drone and missile strikes against Russia, igniting two oil refineries. Meanwhile, Russian forces have dropped bomb in Ukraine's Donetsk region. Watch on for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukrainian drones target Russian oil facilities

The United States is preparing a new military aid package for Ukraine that could be worth as much as $US400 million. Watch in for more details!

US prepares new weapons package for Ukraine, says report

President Vladimir Putin warned the West that Russia was technically ready for nuclear war and that if the US sent troops to Ukraine it would be considered a significant escalation of the war.

Russia's Putin talks about possible nuclear war

A Russian missile strike in Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's hometown of Kryvyi Rih left three dead and dozens wounded on Tuesday. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian missiles hit Ukrainian President Zelensky's hometown

Russia-Ukraine War: 'Russia is ready for nuclear war', Putin warns the West

Russia said its forces prevented incursions from Ukraine on Tuesday and inflicted heavy losses on the attackers, after Ukraine-based armed groups said they had launched cross-border raids.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia says it fought off attempted incursions from Ukraine

<p>Russia claimed on Tuesday (Mar 12) that it had thwarted&nbsp;an armed incursion by Ukrainian armed troops and "sabotage and reconnaissance groups" into the western border districts of Kursk and Belgorod.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine-based armed groups earlier said that they had launched cross-border raids. But Moscow claimed that its forces prevented incursions and inflicted heavy losses on the attackers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Anti-Kremlin armed forces, supposedly composed of Russians opposed to the Ukraine war, earlier claimed to have begun an incursion across Russia's border on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-us-planning-to-launch-cyber-attacks-during-countrys-presidential-elections-699341">Russian intel agency says US planning cyber attacks to influence country’s presidential elections</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>According to the Russian defence ministry, the Ukrainian "terrorist formations" backed by tanks and armoured combat vehicles tried to invade in three separate directions in the Belgorod region at about 3:00 am Moscow time (0000 GMT).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry added that four more attacks by Ukrainian "sabotage and reconnaissance groups" were repulsed around five hours later in Russia's Kursk region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At least two Ukraine-based armed groups, the Freedom of Russia Legion and the Siberian Battalion, claimed responsibility for the raids.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-elite-expects-putin-to-reshuffle-some-positions-after-election-win-699404">Russian elite expects Putin to reshuffle some positions after election win</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In a Telegram post, the Legion said, "We will take our land from the regime centimetre by centimetre."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Andriy Yusov, a spokesperson for Ukraine's military intelligence, told Ukraine's 24 Channel the groups were conducting the operation on Russian territory independently of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said a third group, the Russian Volunteer Corps, was also participating in the operation. However, the group hasn't taken responsibility yet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These attacks happened just three days before the start of voting in a Russian presidential election. Referring to the polls, the Freedom of Russia Legion posted on social media: "The people will vote for whom they want, not for whom they have to. Russians will live freely."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia Presidential elections: Russia spy service accuses US of trying to meddle in polls&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Schools in Kursk are closed</strong> &nbsp;</h2>

<p>In the aftermath of the Ukrainian cross-border incursion, schools in the Russian city of Kursk reportedly switched to online classes, the TASS news agency cited local authorities as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>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;</strong><br />
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(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia claimed on Tuesday (Mar 12) that it had thwarted an armed incursion by Ukrainian armed troops and "sabotage and reconnaissance groups" into the western border districts of Kursk and Belgorod.

Russia claimed on Tuesday (Mar 12) that it had thwarted an armed incursion by Ukrainian armed troops and "sabotage and reconnaissance groups" into the western border districts of Kursk and Belgorod. Ukraine-based armed groups earlier said that they had launched cross-border raids. But Moscow claimed that its forces prevented incursions and inflicted heavy losses on the attackers. Anti-Kremlin armed forces, supposedly composed of Russians opposed to the Ukraine war, earlier claimed to have begun an incursion across Russia's border on Tuesday. Also read: Russian intel agency says US planning cyber attacks to influence country’s presidential elections According to the Russian defence ministry, the Ukrainian "terrorist formations" backed by tanks and armoured combat vehicles tried to invade in three separate directions in the Belgorod region at about 3:00 am Moscow time (0000 GMT). The ministry added that four more attacks by Ukrainian "sabotage and reconnaissance groups" were repulsed around five hours later in Russia's Kursk region. At least two Ukraine-based armed groups, the Freedom of Russia Legion and the Siberian Battalion, claimed responsibility for the raids. Also read: Russian elite expects Putin to reshuffle some positions after election win In a Telegram post, the Legion said, "We will take our land from the regime centimetre by centimetre." Andriy Yusov, a spokesperson for Ukraine's military intelligence, told Ukraine's 24 Channel the groups were conducting the operation on Russian territory independently of Ukraine. He said a third group, the Russian Volunteer Corps, was also participating in the operation. However, the group hasn't taken responsibility yet. These attacks happened just three days before the start of voting in a Russian presidential election. Referring to the polls, the Freedom of Russia Legion posted on social media: "The people will vote for whom they want, not for whom they have to. Russians will live freely." Watch: Russia Presidential elections: Russia spy service accuses US of trying to meddle in polls × Schools in Kursk are closed In the aftermath of the Ukrainian cross-border incursion, schools in the Russian city of Kursk reportedly switched to online classes, the TASS news agency cited local authorities as saying. 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 to have thwarted attempted incursions from Ukraine

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<p>Pope Francis is facing criticism from Ukraine and its allies over his remarks that <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-advocates-for-ukraine-to-show-courage-in-negotiations-698401">Kyiv should demonstrate what he referred to as the "courage of the white flag"</a></strong>&nbsp;and engage in negotiations to end the war with Russia. The foreign ministers of Ukraine and Poland on Sunday (Mar 10) used World War II analogies to condemn the pope’s remarks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, a leader of one of Ukraine’s Christian churches on Sunday said that only the country’s determined resistance to Moscow’s full-scale invasion prevented a mass slaughter of civilians.</p>

<h2><strong>'Will not raise other flags'</strong></h2>

<p>In a post on X, Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said, “The strongest is the one who, in the battle between good and evil, stands on the side of good rather than attempting to put them on the same footing and call it 'negotiations'.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The strongest is the one who, in the battle between good and evil, stands on the side of good rather than attempting to put them on the same footing and call it “negotiations”.<br />
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At the same time, when it comes to the white flag, we know this Vatican's strategy from the first half…</p>
— Dmytro Kuleba (@DmytroKuleba) <a href="https://twitter.com/DmytroKuleba/status/1766819132878553269?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"At the same time, when it comes to the white flag, we know this Vatican's strategy from the first half of the twentieth century. I urge to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past and to support Ukraine and its people in their just struggle for their lives," Foreign Minister Kuleba said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-poland-says-presence-of-nato-troops-in-ukraine-not-unthinkable-698391">Ukraine war: Poland says presence of NATO troops in Ukraine ‘not unthinkable’</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, "Our flag is a yellow and blue one. This is the flag by which we live, die, and prevail. We shall never raise any other flags."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski said, "How about, for balance, encouraging Putin to have the courage to withdraw his army from Ukraine? Peace would immediately ensue without the need for negotiations."</p>

<h2><strong>What did Pope Francis say?</strong></h2>

<p>In an interview with Swiss broadcaster RSI last month, Francis used the phrase “the courage of the white flag” as he argued that Ukraine, facing a possible defeat, should be open to peace talks brokered by international powers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Francis insisted that negotiations were never a surrender, adding, "When you see that you are defeated, that things are not going well, you have to have the courage to negotiate."&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the Angelus prayer on Sunday from the window overlooking St. Peter’s Square, Francis said that he was praying “for peace in the tormented Ukraine and in the Holy Land.”</p>

<p>“Let the hostilities which cause immense suffering among the civilian population cease as soon as possible,” he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pope Francis is facing criticism from Ukraine and its allies over his remarks that Kyiv should demonstrate what he referred to as the "courage of the white flag" and engage in negotiations to end the war with Russia.

Pope Francis is facing criticism from Ukraine and its allies over his remarks that Kyiv should demonstrate what he referred to as the "courage of the white flag" and engage in negotiations to end the war with Russia. The foreign ministers of Ukraine and Poland on Sunday (Mar 10) used World War II analogies to condemn the pope’s remarks. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, a leader of one of Ukraine’s Christian churches on Sunday said that only the country’s determined resistance to Moscow’s full-scale invasion prevented a mass slaughter of civilians. 'Will not raise other flags' In a post on X, Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said, “The strongest is the one who, in the battle between good and evil, stands on the side of good rather than attempting to put them on the same footing and call it 'negotiations'.” The strongest is the one who, in the battle between good and evil, stands on the side of good rather than attempting to put them on the same footing and call it “negotiations”. At the same time, when it comes to the white flag, we know this Vatican's strategy from the first half… — Dmytro Kuleba (@DmytroKuleba) March 10, 2024 × "At the same time, when it comes to the white flag, we know this Vatican's strategy from the first half of the twentieth century. I urge to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past and to support Ukraine and its people in their just struggle for their lives," Foreign Minister Kuleba said. Also read | Ukraine war: Poland says presence of NATO troops in Ukraine ‘not unthinkable’ He added, "Our flag is a yellow and blue one. This is the flag by which we live, die, and prevail. We shall never raise any other flags." Meanwhile, Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski said, "How about, for balance, encouraging Putin to have the courage to withdraw his army from Ukraine? Peace would immediately ensue without the need for negotiations." What did Pope Francis say? In an interview with Swiss broadcaster RSI last month, Francis used the phrase “the courage of the white flag” as he argued that Ukraine, facing a possible defeat, should be open to peace talks brokered by international powers. Francis insisted that negotiations were never a surrender, adding, "When you see that you are defeated, that things are not going well, you have to have the courage to negotiate." During the Angelus prayer on Sunday from the window overlooking St. Peter’s Square, Francis said that he was praying “for peace in the tormented Ukraine and in the Holy Land.” “Let the hostilities which cause immense suffering among the civilian population cease as soon as possible,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: Pope Francis' ‘white flag’ remark criticised by Kyiv, its allies

<p>Russia has reportedly started using a powerful aerial bomb on the frontlines in the Ukraine war, devastating enemy defences big time. Russian forces converted a basic Soviet-era weapon into a gliding bomb, so powerful that it could cause a crater 15 metres wide. The bomb, FAB-1500, is a 1.5-tonne weapon mounted over fighter jets and dropped from a high altitude, at least 60-70 km away from the area of impact.</p>

<p>This is how Russia decimates Ukraine’s ground forces before it tries to occupy a territory.</p>

<p>Russia used these bombs to raze Ukrainian thermal power plants, factories and tower blocks to the ground in the Donetsk region. These were the places from where Ukrainian forces would coordinate their attacks.</p>

<h2><strong>What makes FAB-1500 so dangerous?</strong></h2>

<p>FAB-1500’s gliding capacity enables Russia to take out enemies without having to rush closer to the frontlines and risk causalities. The bomb is navigated by a guidance system and its wings allow it to swim in the air.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war | How would Russia react to NATO in Ukraine?</strong></p>

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<p>According to Joseph Trevithick, a defence expert, the bombs “offer a new and far more destructive stand-off strike option for many of Russia’s tactical jets that also help pilots stay further away from enemy defences.”</p>

<h2><strong>How Ukrainian troops are reacting?</strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian troops say the damage inflicted by these bombs is “very serious” and impacting their “morale”. “Why they are using the FAB-1500? Because the damage done by it is very serious. If you survive, you are guaranteed to have a contusion,” One soldier from Ukraine’s 46th Separate Airmobile Brigade was quoted as saying by CNN.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjH7PCEmeuEAxWHS2wGHcBkCAoQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-abandoned-use-of-nuclear-weapon-in-ukraine-after-intervention-from-india-china-report-698455" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-abandoned-use-of-nuclear-weapon-in-ukraine-after-intervention-from-india-china-report-698455&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjH7PCEmeuEAxWHS2wGHcBkCAoQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">India's intervention made Putin abandon use of nuclear weapon in Ukraine: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>“It puts a lot of pressure on soldiers’ morale.&nbsp; Not all of our guys can withstand it. While they are more or less used to the FAB-500 by now, but the FAB-1500 is hell,” he adds.</p>

<h2><strong>FAB-1500’s role in Fall of Avdiivka</strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian officials say Russia had launched hundreds of these bombs on the eve of the fall of Avdiivka. Yuri Ihnat, Ukrainian Air Force spokesman, was quoted as saying by CNN: “On the eve of and during the battle of Avdiivka hundreds of air bombs were launched within days. There were 250 of them used in Avdiivka direction in 48 hours only.”</p>

<p>The FAB-1500 is the most powerful in a family of Soviet-era ‘dumb bombs’ now being converted at a plant near Moscow into a cheap but potent version of a missile.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia has reportedly started using a powerful aerial bomb on the frontlines in the Ukraine war, devastating enemy defences big time. Russian forces converted a basic Soviet-era weapon into a gliding bomb, so powerful that it could cause a crater 15 metres wide.

Russia has reportedly started using a powerful aerial bomb on the frontlines in the Ukraine war, devastating enemy defences big time. Russian forces converted a basic Soviet-era weapon into a gliding bomb, so powerful that it could cause a crater 15 metres wide. The bomb, FAB-1500, is a 1.5-tonne weapon mounted over fighter jets and dropped from a high altitude, at least 60-70 km away from the area of impact. This is how Russia decimates Ukraine’s ground forces before it tries to occupy a territory. Russia used these bombs to raze Ukrainian thermal power plants, factories and tower blocks to the ground in the Donetsk region. These were the places from where Ukrainian forces would coordinate their attacks. What makes FAB-1500 so dangerous? FAB-1500’s gliding capacity enables Russia to take out enemies without having to rush closer to the frontlines and risk causalities. The bomb is navigated by a guidance system and its wings allow it to swim in the air. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war | How would Russia react to NATO in Ukraine? × According to Joseph Trevithick, a defence expert, the bombs “offer a new and far more destructive stand-off strike option for many of Russia’s tactical jets that also help pilots stay further away from enemy defences.” How Ukrainian troops are reacting? Ukrainian troops say the damage inflicted by these bombs is “very serious” and impacting their “morale”. “Why they are using the FAB-1500? Because the damage done by it is very serious. If you survive, you are guaranteed to have a contusion,” One soldier from Ukraine’s 46th Separate Airmobile Brigade was quoted as saying by CNN. Also read: India's intervention made Putin abandon use of nuclear weapon in Ukraine: Report “It puts a lot of pressure on soldiers’ morale. Not all of our guys can withstand it. While they are more or less used to the FAB-500 by now, but the FAB-1500 is hell,” he adds. FAB-1500’s role in Fall of Avdiivka Ukrainian officials say Russia had launched hundreds of these bombs on the eve of the fall of Avdiivka. Yuri Ihnat, Ukrainian Air Force spokesman, was quoted as saying by CNN: “On the eve of and during the battle of Avdiivka hundreds of air bombs were launched within days. There were 250 of them used in Avdiivka direction in 48 hours only.” The FAB-1500 is the most powerful in a family of Soviet-era ‘dumb bombs’ now being converted at a plant near Moscow into a cheap but potent version of a missile. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian troops jittery as Russia starts using powerful, gliding bombs on frontlines

Russian security services have long had information that NATO advisers are in Ukraine, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday. Watch in for more details!

Kremlin says it had information about NATO advisers visit to Ukraine

<p>Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on Sunday (March 10) said that Donald Trump will not provide funds to Ukraine for its fight against Russia if he gets elected as US president in this year's elections.</p>

<p>This he said would further expedite an end to the war between the two sides.</p>

<p>Nationalist premier Orban lent his support to long-time ally Trump's bid to return to the White House after meeting the former US president in Florida late on Friday (March 8).</p>

<p>"He will not give a penny into the Ukraine-Russia war and therefore the war will end," Orban told state television late on Sunday (March 10). "As it is obvious that Ukraine on its own cannot stand on its feet."</p>

<p>"If the Americans do not give money and weapons, and also the Europeans, then this war will be over. And if the Americans do not give money the Europeans are unable to finance this war on their own, and then the war will end."</p>

<p>Orban stated that it was "another matter" how the conflict would come to an end with peace negotiations following a truce and how a secure and stable Europe would be established, however, first and foremost peace must be achieved and "he (Trump) has the means for that."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-troops-jittery-as-russia-starts-using-powerful-gliding-bombs-on-frontlines-698797">Ukrainian troops jittery as Russia starts using powerful, gliding bombs on frontlines</a></p>

<h2><strong>We need leaders who can bring peace, Trump is one of them: Orban&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Orban, after meeting with his long-time ally Trump, took to his official X account and wrote, "We need leaders in the world who are respected and can bring peace. He is one of them! Come back and bring us peace, Mr. President!"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> was a president of peace. He commanded respect in the world, and created the conditions for peace. During his presidency there was peace in the Middle East and peace in Ukraine. We need him back more than ever! Thank you for the invitation, Mr.… <a href="https://t.co/4nSqwoYxMV">pic.twitter.com/4nSqwoYxMV</a></p>
— Orbán Viktor (@PM_ViktorOrban) <a href="https://twitter.com/PM_ViktorOrban/status/1766842889529704554?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two, according to a statement from Trump's campaign, discussed "a wide range of issues affecting Hungary and the United States, including the paramount importance of strong and secure borders to protect the sovereignty of each nation."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It was a pleasure to visit President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> today. We need leaders in the world who are respected and can bring peace. He is one of them! Come back and bring us peace, Mr. President! <a href="https://t.co/rbCYvygzNy">pic.twitter.com/rbCYvygzNy</a></p>
— Orbán Viktor (@PM_ViktorOrban) <a href="https://twitter.com/PM_ViktorOrban/status/1766305639595119060?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Orban, who is admired by many American conservatives for his tough immigration policies, family support schemes and vocal stance on national sovereignty, said in a video on his Facebook page that there was peace in the Middle East and also Ukraine during Trump's 2017-2021 presidency.</p>

<p>"Viktor is a Great Leader, respected all over the World," Trump said on Saturday in a post on his Truth Social messaging platform, saying it had been an honour to host Orban.</p>

<p>"Hungary is a Safe Country because of his Strong Immigration Policies, and as long as he is in charge, it always will be!" Trump added.</p>

<p>Orban has refused to provide arms to Kyiv and has maintained close economic ties with Moscow since Russia launched its offensive against Ukraine in 2022.</p>

<p>He last met Russian President Vladimir Putin in China in October last year despite efforts by the European Union to isolate Moscow. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on Sunday (March 10) said that Donald Trump will not provide funds to Ukraine for its fight against Russia if he gets elected as US president in this year's elections.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on Sunday (March 10) said that Donald Trump will not provide funds to Ukraine for its fight against Russia if he gets elected as US president in this year's elections. This he said would further expedite an end to the war between the two sides. Nationalist premier Orban lent his support to long-time ally Trump's bid to return to the White House after meeting the former US president in Florida late on Friday (March 8). "He will not give a penny into the Ukraine-Russia war and therefore the war will end," Orban told state television late on Sunday (March 10). "As it is obvious that Ukraine on its own cannot stand on its feet." "If the Americans do not give money and weapons, and also the Europeans, then this war will be over. And if the Americans do not give money the Europeans are unable to finance this war on their own, and then the war will end." Orban stated that it was "another matter" how the conflict would come to an end with peace negotiations following a truce and how a secure and stable Europe would be established, however, first and foremost peace must be achieved and "he (Trump) has the means for that." Also read: Ukrainian troops jittery as Russia starts using powerful, gliding bombs on frontlines We need leaders who can bring peace, Trump is one of them: Orban Orban, after meeting with his long-time ally Trump, took to his official X account and wrote, "We need leaders in the world who are respected and can bring peace. He is one of them! Come back and bring us peace, Mr. President!" President @realDonaldTrump was a president of peace. He commanded respect in the world, and created the conditions for peace. During his presidency there was peace in the Middle East and peace in Ukraine. We need him back more than ever! Thank you for the invitation, Mr.… pic.twitter.com/4nSqwoYxMV — Orbán Viktor (@PM_ViktorOrban) March 10, 2024 × The two, according to a statement from Trump's campaign, discussed "a wide range of issues affecting Hungary and the United States, including the paramount importance of strong and secure borders to protect the sovereignty of each nation." It was a pleasure to visit President @realDonaldTrump today. We need leaders in the world who are respected and can bring peace. He is one of them! Come back and bring us peace, Mr. President! pic.twitter.com/rbCYvygzNy — Orbán Viktor (@PM_ViktorOrban) March 9, 2024 × Orban, who is admired by many American conservatives for his tough immigration policies, family support schemes and vocal stance on national sovereignty, said in a video on his Facebook page that there was peace in the Middle East and also Ukraine during Trump's 2017-2021 presidency. "Viktor is a Great Leader, respected all over the World," Trump said on Saturday in a post on his Truth Social messaging platform, saying it had been an honour to host Orban. "Hungary is a Safe Country because of his Strong Immigration Policies, and as long as he is in charge, it always will be!" Trump added. Orban has refused to provide arms to Kyiv and has maintained close economic ties with Moscow since Russia launched its offensive against Ukraine in 2022. He last met Russian President Vladimir Putin in China in October last year despite efforts by the European Union to isolate Moscow. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Donald Trump won’t give funds to Ukraine if elected,’ says Hungarian PM Orban

<p>India may have played a key role in discouraging Russia from launching a nuclear attack inside Ukraine in 2022 when President Vladimir Putin’s forces faced ‘one setback after another’ on the battlefield, according to a CNN report that cites US officials.</p>

<p>The report&nbsp;said intervention from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and nations like China may have forced Putin to drop the nuclear plans.</p>

<h2><strong>Alarming intelligence</strong></h2>

<p>In 2022, US officials grew worried that Russia might resort to using a tactical nuclear weapon in the face of growing challenges in Ukraine. It was when Ukrainian forces were advancing on Russian-occupied Kherson in the south. As per the report, Russia became concerned that its forces in Kherson could be surrounded and devastated if Ukrainian troops kept advancing.</p>

<p>The US officials believed that such a heavy loss could trigger the Kremlin to resort to using non-conventional/nuclear means.</p>

<p>“If significant numbers of Russian forces were ­overrun —​­ if their lives were shattered as such —​­ that was a sort of precursor to a potential threat directly to Russian territory or the Russian state,” a senior US official was quoted as saying by CNN.</p>

<p>“In Kherson at that time there were increasing signs that Russian lines could collapse. Tens of thousands of Russian troops were potentially vulnerable,” the official added.</p>

<p>In addition to this theory, the Biden administration had access to new, sensitive intelligence—based on analysis, several indicators and developments—that pointed towards the possibility of a nuclear Armageddon.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia’s ‘Dirty Bomb’ theory</strong></h2>

<p>During the same period, Russian loyalists and propagandists started talking about the possibility of Ukraine using a ‘dirty bomb’ against Russia.</p>

<p>Western officials believed it was a false flag story that Russia could use as cover for launching its own nuclear attack.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;How did Ukraine sink 25% of Russia's Black Sea Fleet in the Naval War?</strong></p>

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<p>In October 2022, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu reportedly made a series of phone calls to defence officials in the US, the UK, France and Turkey, telling them that the Kremlin was “concerned about possible provocations by Kyiv involving the use of a dirty bomb.”</p>

<p>The US meanwhile started working with its allies to develop contingency plans and warn Russia about potential consequences.</p>

<h2><strong>Role of India and China</strong></h2>

<p>As per US officials, help was also sought from non-allies like India and China.</p>

<p>US officials say intervention from PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping helped avert a nuclear disaster in Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjez4Gv5uiEAxW_7zgGHQuvCpcQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-advocates-for-ukraine-to-show-courage-in-negotiations-698401" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-advocates-for-ukraine-to-show-courage-in-negotiations-698401&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjez4Gv5uiEAxW_7zgGHQuvCpcQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Pope encourages Ukraine to show ‘white flag’ courage in negotiations</a></strong></p>

<p>“I think we believe showing the international community the concern about this, particularly the concern from key countries for Russia and the Global South, was also a helpful, persuasive factor and showed them what the cost of all this could be,” a US official said.</p>

<p>“I think the fact that we know China weighed in, India weighed in, others weighed in, may have had some effect on their thinking. I can’t demonstrate this positively, but I think that’s our assessment,” a second official was quoted as saying.</p>


India may have played a key role in discouraging Russia from launching a nuclear attack inside Ukraine in 2022 when President Vladimir Putin’s forces faced ‘one setback after another’ on the battlefield, according to a CNN report that cites US officials.

India may have played a key role in discouraging Russia from launching a nuclear attack inside Ukraine in 2022 when President Vladimir Putin’s forces faced ‘one setback after another’ on the battlefield, according to a CNN report that cites US officials. The report said intervention from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and nations like China may have forced Putin to drop the nuclear plans. Alarming intelligence In 2022, US officials grew worried that Russia might resort to using a tactical nuclear weapon in the face of growing challenges in Ukraine. It was when Ukrainian forces were advancing on Russian-occupied Kherson in the south. As per the report, Russia became concerned that its forces in Kherson could be surrounded and devastated if Ukrainian troops kept advancing. The US officials believed that such a heavy loss could trigger the Kremlin to resort to using non-conventional/nuclear means. “If significant numbers of Russian forces were overrun — if their lives were shattered as such — that was a sort of precursor to a potential threat directly to Russian territory or the Russian state,” a senior US official was quoted as saying by CNN. “In Kherson at that time there were increasing signs that Russian lines could collapse. Tens of thousands of Russian troops were potentially vulnerable,” the official added. In addition to this theory, the Biden administration had access to new, sensitive intelligence—based on analysis, several indicators and developments—that pointed towards the possibility of a nuclear Armageddon. Russia’s ‘Dirty Bomb’ theory During the same period, Russian loyalists and propagandists started talking about the possibility of Ukraine using a ‘dirty bomb’ against Russia. Western officials believed it was a false flag story that Russia could use as cover for launching its own nuclear attack. Watch: How did Ukraine sink 25% of Russia's Black Sea Fleet in the Naval War? × In October 2022, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu reportedly made a series of phone calls to defence officials in the US, the UK, France and Turkey, telling them that the Kremlin was “concerned about possible provocations by Kyiv involving the use of a dirty bomb.” The US meanwhile started working with its allies to develop contingency plans and warn Russia about potential consequences. Role of India and China As per US officials, help was also sought from non-allies like India and China. US officials say intervention from PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping helped avert a nuclear disaster in Ukraine. Also read: Pope encourages Ukraine to show ‘white flag’ courage in negotiations “I think we believe showing the international community the concern about this, particularly the concern from key countries for Russia and the Global South, was also a helpful, persuasive factor and showed them what the cost of all this could be,” a US official said. “I think the fact that we know China weighed in, India weighed in, others weighed in, may have had some effect on their thinking. I can’t demonstrate this positively, but I think that’s our assessment,” a second official was quoted as saying.

India's intervention made Putin abandon use of nuclear weapon in Ukraine: Report

<p>Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski said on Friday (Mar 8) that the presence of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) troops in war-torn Ukraine was "not unthinkable," adding he appreciated French President Emmanuel Macron's initiative for not ruling out the idea. In a post on X, the foreign ministry said that Sikorski made this observation during a discussion marking the 25th anniversary of Poland’s accession to NATO in the Polish parliament.</p>

<p>Sikorski said he appreciated Macron's initiative “because it is about Putin being afraid, not us being afraid of Putin.” In February, Macron said that the possibility of Western troops being sent to Ukraine could not be ruled out, a comment that broke a taboo among allies and prompted an outcry from other leaders.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-advocates-for-ukraine-to-show-courage-in-negotiations-698401">Pope encourages Ukraine to show 'white flag' courage in negotiations</a></strong></p>

<p>According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, French officials later sought to clarify Macron’s remarks and tamp down the backlash, while insisting on the need to send a clear signal to Russia that it cannot win its war in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Russia had warned that if NATO sends combat troops, a direct conflict between the intergovernmental military alliance and Moscow would be inevitable. Russian President Vladimir Putin said such a move would risk a global nuclear war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Turkish President Erdogan offers to host peace summit between Russia &amp; Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk was among those European leaders who initially ruled out sending troops to Ukraine after Macron’s remarks. "Poland does not plan to send its troops to the territory of Ukraine," Prime Minister Tusk said.</p>

<p>However, Sikorski was appreciative of Macron's initiative.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Poland is a member of NATO along the alliance’s eastern flank, with Ukraine across its eastern border. The country has been under Russian control in the past, and fears run high that if Russia wins in Ukraine, it could next target other countries in a region that Moscow views as its sphere of interest.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski said on Friday (Mar 8) that the presence of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) troops in war-torn Ukraine was "not unthinkable," adding he appreciated French President Emmanuel Macron's initiative for not ruling out the idea.

Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski said on Friday (Mar 8) that the presence of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) troops in war-torn Ukraine was "not unthinkable," adding he appreciated French President Emmanuel Macron's initiative for not ruling out the idea. In a post on X, the foreign ministry said that Sikorski made this observation during a discussion marking the 25th anniversary of Poland’s accession to NATO in the Polish parliament. Sikorski said he appreciated Macron's initiative “because it is about Putin being afraid, not us being afraid of Putin.” In February, Macron said that the possibility of Western troops being sent to Ukraine could not be ruled out, a comment that broke a taboo among allies and prompted an outcry from other leaders. Also read | Pope encourages Ukraine to show 'white flag' courage in negotiations According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, French officials later sought to clarify Macron’s remarks and tamp down the backlash, while insisting on the need to send a clear signal to Russia that it cannot win its war in Ukraine. Russia had warned that if NATO sends combat troops, a direct conflict between the intergovernmental military alliance and Moscow would be inevitable. Russian President Vladimir Putin said such a move would risk a global nuclear war. Also watch | Turkish President Erdogan offers to host peace summit between Russia & Ukraine × Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk was among those European leaders who initially ruled out sending troops to Ukraine after Macron’s remarks. "Poland does not plan to send its troops to the territory of Ukraine," Prime Minister Tusk said. However, Sikorski was appreciative of Macron's initiative. Poland is a member of NATO along the alliance’s eastern flank, with Ukraine across its eastern border. The country has been under Russian control in the past, and fears run high that if Russia wins in Ukraine, it could next target other countries in a region that Moscow views as its sphere of interest. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: Poland says presence of NATO troops in Ukraine ‘not unthinkable’

Ukraine urgently needs artillery and air defenses from its allies in order to continue defending itself from Russia, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, rejecting the idea that the war had reached a stalemate two years on from Russia’s invasion.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine urges faster delivery of western arms

India's External Affairs Minister has reiterated New Delhi's position on the war in Ukraine stating that the conflict needs to be resolved through dialogue. Watch to know more.

EAM Jaishankar: 'We do not believe this is an era of war'

<p>The United Nations' (UN) International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) board of governors voted on Thursday (Mar 7) to demand Russia withdraw from the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) in Ukraine, in a resolution passed days after the second anniversary of the plant's capture by Moscow. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, this was the IAEA board's fourth resolution condemning Russia's actions against Ukrainian nuclear facilities.</p>

<p>In a post on X, Ukraine's mission to the International Atomic Energy Agency said that the resolution had been adopted by the majority of votes. The mission called on the UN agency to continue addressing Russia's attempts to undermine nuclear and radiation safety at the Zaporizhzhia plant.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/icc-issues-arrest-warrants-for-top-russian-commanders-for-suspected-war-crimes-in-ukraine-696970">ICC issues arrest warrants for top Russian commanders over suspected war crimes in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>The text adopted on Thursday said that the board called "for the urgent withdrawal of all unauthorised military and other unauthorised personnel from Ukraine's ZNPP and for the plant to be immediately returned to the full control of the competent Ukrainian authorities."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IAEA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IAEA</a> Board of Governors had adopted the resolution introduced by 🇺🇦.<br />
The majority of votes clearly demonstrates the international community's strong support for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a>. <a href="https://t.co/SaUWhgGpwD">pic.twitter.com/SaUWhgGpwD</a></p>
— Ukrainian Mission to OSCE &amp; UN in Vienna (@UKRinOSCE) <a href="https://twitter.com/UKRinOSCE/status/1765847408804519987?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The board reiterated its concern that Russia did not heed the agency's previous calls to withdraw its military and other personnel from the plant. In the past, the IAEA has repeatedly expressed alarm about the facility amid fears of a potential nuclear catastrophe.</p>

<p>The plant has been caught in the crossfire multiple times since Russia launched its offensive in Ukraine in February 2022. The plant’s six reactors have been shut down for months, but it still needs power and qualified staff to operate crucial cooling systems and other safety features.</p>

<p>Last month, IAEA chief &nbsp;Rafael Grossi said that security at the plant remained fragile amid worrying recent staff cuts enacted by Russian authorities occupying the facility.</p>

<p>“This huge facility used to have around 12,000 staff. Now, this has been reduced to between 2,000 and 3,000, which is quite a steep reduction in the number of people working there,” Grossi told the news agency Associated Press on February 6.</p>

<p>“To man, to operate these very sophisticated big installations you need a certain number of people performing different specific functions,” he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The United Nations' (UN) International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) board of governors voted on Thursday (Mar 7) to demand Russia withdraw from the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) in Ukraine, in a resolution passed days after the second anniversary of the plant's capture by Moscow.

The United Nations' (UN) International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) board of governors voted on Thursday (Mar 7) to demand Russia withdraw from the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) in Ukraine, in a resolution passed days after the second anniversary of the plant's capture by Moscow. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, this was the IAEA board's fourth resolution condemning Russia's actions against Ukrainian nuclear facilities. In a post on X, Ukraine's mission to the International Atomic Energy Agency said that the resolution had been adopted by the majority of votes. The mission called on the UN agency to continue addressing Russia's attempts to undermine nuclear and radiation safety at the Zaporizhzhia plant. Also read | ICC issues arrest warrants for top Russian commanders over suspected war crimes in Ukraine The text adopted on Thursday said that the board called "for the urgent withdrawal of all unauthorised military and other unauthorised personnel from Ukraine's ZNPP and for the plant to be immediately returned to the full control of the competent Ukrainian authorities." #IAEA Board of Governors had adopted the resolution introduced by 🇺🇦. The majority of votes clearly demonstrates the international community's strong support for #Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/SaUWhgGpwD — Ukrainian Mission to OSCE & UN in Vienna (@UKRinOSCE) March 7, 2024 × The board reiterated its concern that Russia did not heed the agency's previous calls to withdraw its military and other personnel from the plant. In the past, the IAEA has repeatedly expressed alarm about the facility amid fears of a potential nuclear catastrophe. The plant has been caught in the crossfire multiple times since Russia launched its offensive in Ukraine in February 2022. The plant’s six reactors have been shut down for months, but it still needs power and qualified staff to operate crucial cooling systems and other safety features. Last month, IAEA chief Rafael Grossi said that security at the plant remained fragile amid worrying recent staff cuts enacted by Russian authorities occupying the facility. “This huge facility used to have around 12,000 staff. Now, this has been reduced to between 2,000 and 3,000, which is quite a steep reduction in the number of people working there,” Grossi told the news agency Associated Press on February 6. “To man, to operate these very sophisticated big installations you need a certain number of people performing different specific functions,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: UN nuclear watchdog calls on Russia to leave Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant

<p>Sweden officially joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in Washington on Thursday (March 7), two years after the Russia-Ukraine war raised security concerns. The war, which started on February 24, 2024, forced Stockholm to rethink its national security policy and decide that support for the alliance was the Scandinavian nation's best guarantee of security.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, a report by the Financial Times mentioned that NATO membership may turn Sweden into a logistics hub and a reinforcement route.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report noted that Sweden includes the island of Gotland, which opens up fresh supply and reinforcement lines. It will allow the NATO nations to use it as a transportation hub, facilitating the defence of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. These nations formerly relied on the Suwalki Gap, which is a thin strip separating the Baltic countries from Poland.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sanctions-against-moscow-backfire-us-spent-20mn-to-maintain-superyacht-seized-from-russian-oligarch-697675">Sanctions against Moscow backfire? US spent $20mn to maintain superyacht seized from Russian oligarch</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted in the paper, Latvian Foreign Minister Krisjanis Karins said, "The Baltic Sea becomes a NATO lake. It reduces the vulnerability of the Baltics through only the Suwalki Gap. The entire security of the region is made stronger because it makes the eastern Baltic less vulnerable."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The paper further quoted Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt as saying that Sweden and Finland's membership will also "enable NATO to look at northern Europe as one big region, without a gaping hole in the map".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts have warned that the Ukraine war might spread in Europe, and include&nbsp;other nations as well. It has subsequently amplified the need for NATO's better control and accessibility in the continent.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eus-von-der-leyen-wins-conservatives-backing-to-lead-bloc-for-5-more-years-697691">EU's von der Leyen wins conservatives' backing to lead bloc for 5 more years</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine urges faster delivery of western arms&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>A Russian military official said that the ongoing conflict in Ukraine may grow to include additional proxy troops in the military confrontation with Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Colonel-General Vladimir Zarudnitsky, who is the chief of the Military Academy of the Russian General Staff, wrote in an article published in the Voennaya Mysl (Military Thought) magazine that the spread of war may lead to a direct military battle with Russia itself, or possibly to a full-fledged war in Europe.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"How the situation may evolve is currently hard to predict, amid the rising controversy that almost always leads to the use of force. The Ukraine conflict could well escalate to include an expanded list of proxy forces being used for the military confrontation with Russia, or even to a large-scale war in Europe," the Russian general said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zarudnitsky cautioned against playing down military threats to domestic security. "In order to weaken our country, the United States and Western countries are making every effort to destabilize the social and political situation in Russia, using religious, ethnic or civilizational strife that may also lead to the use of force," he warned.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Sweden officially joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in Washington on Thursday (March 7), two years after the Russia-Ukraine war raised security concerns.

Sweden officially joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in Washington on Thursday (March 7), two years after the Russia-Ukraine war raised security concerns. The war, which started on February 24, 2024, forced Stockholm to rethink its national security policy and decide that support for the alliance was the Scandinavian nation's best guarantee of security. However, a report by the Financial Times mentioned that NATO membership may turn Sweden into a logistics hub and a reinforcement route. The report noted that Sweden includes the island of Gotland, which opens up fresh supply and reinforcement lines. It will allow the NATO nations to use it as a transportation hub, facilitating the defence of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. These nations formerly relied on the Suwalki Gap, which is a thin strip separating the Baltic countries from Poland. Also read: Sanctions against Moscow backfire? US spent $20mn to maintain superyacht seized from Russian oligarch As quoted in the paper, Latvian Foreign Minister Krisjanis Karins said, "The Baltic Sea becomes a NATO lake. It reduces the vulnerability of the Baltics through only the Suwalki Gap. The entire security of the region is made stronger because it makes the eastern Baltic less vulnerable." The paper further quoted Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt as saying that Sweden and Finland's membership will also "enable NATO to look at northern Europe as one big region, without a gaping hole in the map". Experts have warned that the Ukraine war might spread in Europe, and include other nations as well. It has subsequently amplified the need for NATO's better control and accessibility in the continent. Also read: EU's von der Leyen wins conservatives' backing to lead bloc for 5 more years Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine urges faster delivery of western arms × A Russian military official said that the ongoing conflict in Ukraine may grow to include additional proxy troops in the military confrontation with Russia. Colonel-General Vladimir Zarudnitsky, who is the chief of the Military Academy of the Russian General Staff, wrote in an article published in the Voennaya Mysl (Military Thought) magazine that the spread of war may lead to a direct military battle with Russia itself, or possibly to a full-fledged war in Europe. "How the situation may evolve is currently hard to predict, amid the rising controversy that almost always leads to the use of force. The Ukraine conflict could well escalate to include an expanded list of proxy forces being used for the military confrontation with Russia, or even to a large-scale war in Europe," the Russian general said. Zarudnitsky cautioned against playing down military threats to domestic security. "In order to weaken our country, the United States and Western countries are making every effort to destabilize the social and political situation in Russia, using religious, ethnic or civilizational strife that may also lead to the use of force," he warned. (With inputs from agencies)

New NATO member Sweden may turn into logistics hub for military alliance: Report

A Russian missile appeared to have struck in the Ukrainian port city of Odessa close to where President Volodymyr Zelensky was holding a top-secret meeting with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian rocket lands near Zelensky, Greek PM during Odesa visit

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian missile explodes in Odessa close to Zelensky, Greek PM

<p>A super yacht which was seized from a sanctioned Russian oligarch has cost the American taxpayers a total of $20 million and nearly $1 million per month to maintain, recent court filings showed. This comes as the war in Ukraine rages on and Kyiv’s Western allies, including the United States, have imposed thousands of sanctions against Russia in response.</p>

<h2><strong>About the Russian oligarch’s superyacht</strong></h2>

<p>The US Department of Justice has sought permission to sell the 348-foot yacht called Amadea which was seized in 2022. Estimated at a price of&nbsp;around $300 million, the superyacht was&nbsp;allegedly owned by Russian billionaire Suleiman Kerimov.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;'Any war is a tragedy', says Russian President Putin as Ukraine war enters third year</strong></p>

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<p>Kerimov was sanctioned by the US Treasury Department in 2014 and again in 2018 in response to Russia’s activities in Syria and Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US government has sought to sell the mega-yacht, which is currently docked in San Diego, for $230 million due to the “excessive costs” of the maintenance and crew which can be as high as $922,000 a month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the court documents, monthly costs for Amadea include $600,000 per month in running costs; $360,000 for the crew; $75,000 for fuel; and $165,000 for maintenance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ship also requires an additional $144,000 in insurance and the occasional one-off fees to cover dry docking expenses which add another $178,000 to the monthly bill.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/filipino-nationals-two-among-three-killed-in-houthi-missile-attack-in-gulf-of-aden-697466">Two Filipino nationals among three killed in Houthi missile attack in Gulf of Aden</a></strong></p>

<p>“It is excessive for taxpayers to pay nearly a million dollars per month to maintain the Amadea when these expenses could be reduced to zero through sale,” the US prosecutors argued in the court filing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In previous court filings, prosecutors have also said that these maintenance payments are essential to preserving the yacht’s value.</p>

<h2><strong>Battle over Amadea</strong></h2>

<p>The US government has tried to previously get rid of the yacht but the efforts to auction it have been challenged by Eduard Khudainatov, who led the Russian state oil and gas company Rosneft from 2010 to 2013.</p>

<p>Khudainatov who has claimed ownership of the Amadea said that it cannot be forfeited because he has not been sanctioned. However, in previous court filings, prosecutors have alleged that he is acting as the superyacht’s “straw owner” to disguise Kerimov’s role.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the Russian oligarch’s lawyers have argued that the motion to sell the vessel was “premature” and urged the judge to decline it till the court “determines whether the seizure was unconstitutional.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-lawmakers-introduce-bill-targeting-tiktok-over-national-security-concerns-697591">US lawmakers introduce bill targeting TikTok over national security concerns</a></strong></p>

<p>The court battle over Amadea highlights the financial and legal challenges of the sanctions imposed by the US which also involves seizing and selling assets owned by Russian oligarchs. If the US government succeeds,&nbsp;they would likely eventually transfer sale proceeds to support Ukraine.</p>

<p>European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, last week suggested something similar saying that the EU should use profits from more than $200 billion of frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine’s war effort.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


A super yacht which was seized from a sanctioned Russian oligarch has cost the American taxpayers a total of $20 million and nearly $1 million per month to maintain, recent court filings showed.

A super yacht which was seized from a sanctioned Russian oligarch has cost the American taxpayers a total of $20 million and nearly $1 million per month to maintain, recent court filings showed. This comes as the war in Ukraine rages on and Kyiv’s Western allies, including the United States, have imposed thousands of sanctions against Russia in response. About the Russian oligarch’s superyacht The US Department of Justice has sought permission to sell the 348-foot yacht called Amadea which was seized in 2022. Estimated at a price of around $300 million, the superyacht was allegedly owned by Russian billionaire Suleiman Kerimov. WATCH | 'Any war is a tragedy', says Russian President Putin as Ukraine war enters third year Kerimov was sanctioned by the US Treasury Department in 2014 and again in 2018 in response to Russia’s activities in Syria and Ukraine. The US government has sought to sell the mega-yacht, which is currently docked in San Diego, for $230 million due to the “excessive costs” of the maintenance and crew which can be as high as $922,000 a month. According to the court documents, monthly costs for Amadea include $600,000 per month in running costs; $360,000 for the crew; $75,000 for fuel; and $165,000 for maintenance. The ship also requires an additional $144,000 in insurance and the occasional one-off fees to cover dry docking expenses which add another $178,000 to the monthly bill. Also Read | Two Filipino nationals among three killed in Houthi missile attack in Gulf of Aden “It is excessive for taxpayers to pay nearly a million dollars per month to maintain the Amadea when these expenses could be reduced to zero through sale,” the US prosecutors argued in the court filing. In previous court filings, prosecutors have also said that these maintenance payments are essential to preserving the yacht’s value. Battle over Amadea The US government has tried to previously get rid of the yacht but the efforts to auction it have been challenged by Eduard Khudainatov, who led the Russian state oil and gas company Rosneft from 2010 to 2013. Khudainatov who has claimed ownership of the Amadea said that it cannot be forfeited because he has not been sanctioned. However, in previous court filings, prosecutors have alleged that he is acting as the superyacht’s “straw owner” to disguise Kerimov’s role. However, the Russian oligarch’s lawyers have argued that the motion to sell the vessel was “premature” and urged the judge to decline it till the court “determines whether the seizure was unconstitutional.” Also Read | US lawmakers introduce bill targeting TikTok over national security concerns The court battle over Amadea highlights the financial and legal challenges of the sanctions imposed by the US which also involves seizing and selling assets owned by Russian oligarchs. If the US government succeeds, they would likely eventually transfer sale proceeds to support Ukraine. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, last week suggested something similar saying that the EU should use profits from more than $200 billion of frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine’s war effort. (With inputs from agencies)

Sanctions against Moscow backfire? US spent $20mn to maintain superyacht seized from Russian oligarch

Any war and any hostilities are a tragedy, Russian President Vladimir Putin said, referring to the large number of flashpoints in the world. Watch in for more details!

'Any war is a tragedy', Russian President Putin's emotional remark on Ukraine war

'Any war is a tragedy', says Russian President Putin as Ukraine war enters third year

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