<p>Russia on Wednesday (Oct 4) tested its emergency public warning systems across the country with blaring sirens, and interrupting some television and radio broadcasts to advise the public to remain calm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ministry of Emergency Situations said in a press release that a large-scale audit of public warning systems at the regional and municipal levels will take place nationwide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The test was first conducted in 2020 and it is part of a new initiative that requires authorities to conduct tests twice a year, starting from Sep 1.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-may-order-test-of-burevestnik-flying-chernobyl-nuke-on-his-birthday-642326">Putin's birthday plans include the 'doomsday' 'flying Chernobyl' nuclear missile</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>At around 10:40am Moscow time (0740 GMT), sirens wailed across some parts of Russia and stern announcements demanded "Attention everyone!".&nbsp;</p>

<p>A male Russian voice said on&nbsp;speakers: "The warning system is designed to timely convey a signal to the population in the event of a threat or emergency of a natural or man-made nature. The readiness of warning systems is being checked, please remain calm."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry said in a statement: "When you hear the sound of a siren, you need to remain calm and not panic, turn on the TV - any publicly accessible channel or radio - and listen to the information message."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/55-chinese-sailors-die-of-poisoning-asphyxiation-in-catastrophic-nuclear-submarine-accident-642315">55 Chinese sailors die of poisoning, asphyxiation in nuclear submarine accident: Report</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine's drone army expanding with Ratel Ground Drones</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>US government to conduct nationwide emergency alert&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Russia's emergency alert testing comes amid the United States also carrying out the same exercise. Government officials said that a message reading 'THIS IS A TEST' may flash across the screen of your cell phone or television on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The exercise is a part of the federal government's routine testing of its emergency alert system, which is used to inform people about emergencies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, said in a press release that the purpose of the test is to ensure that the systems "continue to be effective in alerting the public to emergencies, particularly at the national level".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Not just the US and Russia, but many other countries have also conducted alert system tests for crises and disasters in recent years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russia on Wednesday (Oct 4) tested its emergency public warning systems across the country with blaring sirens, and interrupting some television and radio broadcasts to advise the public to remain calm.

Russia on Wednesday (Oct 4) tested its emergency public warning systems across the country with blaring sirens, and interrupting some television and radio broadcasts to advise the public to remain calm. The Ministry of Emergency Situations said in a press release that a large-scale audit of public warning systems at the regional and municipal levels will take place nationwide. The test was first conducted in 2020 and it is part of a new initiative that requires authorities to conduct tests twice a year, starting from Sep 1. Also read: Putin's birthday plans include the 'doomsday' 'flying Chernobyl' nuclear missile At around 10:40am Moscow time (0740 GMT), sirens wailed across some parts of Russia and stern announcements demanded "Attention everyone!". A male Russian voice said on speakers: "The warning system is designed to timely convey a signal to the population in the event of a threat or emergency of a natural or man-made nature. The readiness of warning systems is being checked, please remain calm." The ministry said in a statement: "When you hear the sound of a siren, you need to remain calm and not panic, turn on the TV - any publicly accessible channel or radio - and listen to the information message." Also read: 55 Chinese sailors die of poisoning, asphyxiation in nuclear submarine accident: Report Watch: Ukraine's drone army expanding with Ratel Ground Drones × US government to conduct nationwide emergency alert Russia's emergency alert testing comes amid the United States also carrying out the same exercise. Government officials said that a message reading 'THIS IS A TEST' may flash across the screen of your cell phone or television on Wednesday. The exercise is a part of the federal government's routine testing of its emergency alert system, which is used to inform people about emergencies. The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, said in a press release that the purpose of the test is to ensure that the systems "continue to be effective in alerting the public to emergencies, particularly at the national level". Not just the US and Russia, but many other countries have also conducted alert system tests for crises and disasters in recent years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Attention everyone! Russia tests public warning system amid the war in Ukraine

<p>Drunk recruits. Insubordinate soldiers. Convicts.</p>

<p>They're among hundreds of military and civilian offenders who've been pressed into Russian penal units known as "Storm-Z" squads and sent to the frontlines in Ukraine this year, according to 13 people with knowledge of the matter, including five fighters in the units.</p>

<p>Few live to tell their tale, the people said.</p>

<p>"Storm fighters, they're just meat," said one regular soldier from army unit no. 40318 who was deployed near the fiercely contested city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine in May and June.</p>

<p>He said he'd given medical treatment to a group of six or seven wounded Storm-Z fighters on the battlefield, disobeying an order from a commander - whose name he didn't know - to leave the men. He said he didn't know why the commander gave the order, but claimed that it typified how Storm-Z fighters were considered of lesser value than ordinary troops by officers.</p>

<p>The soldier, who requested anonymity because he feared prosecution in Russia for publicly discussing the war, said he had sympathy for the men's plight: "If the commandants catch anyone with the smell of alcohol on their breath, then they immediately send them to the Storm squads."</p>

<p>When contacted by Reuters, an officer at unit no. 40318 declined to comment on Storm-Z and ended the call. The Kremlin referred Reuters questions to the Russian defence ministry, which didn't respond to a request for comment.</p>

<p>Russian state-controlled media has reported that Storm-Z squads exist, that they took part in intense battles and some of their members received medals for bravery, but it has not disclosed how they are formed, or the losses they take.</p>

<p>Reuters is the first news organisation to compile a comprehensive account of how the squads are put together and deployed, by speaking to multiple sources with direct knowledge of what is happening.</p>

<p>Like the soldier from unit no. 40318, the 13 people interviewed - who also include four relatives of Storm-Z members as well as three soldiers in regular units who interacted with the squads - all requested anonymity, citing fear of reprisals. Reuters verified the identities of all the fighters involved using criminal records, social media accounts, or by speaking to their fellow serviceman and their families.</p>

<p>The penal squads, each about 100-150 strong and embedded within regular army units, have typically been sent to the most exposed parts of the front and often sustain heavy losses, according to Reuters interviews with the people, who identified at least five Storm-Z teams fighting to repel a Ukrainian counteroffensive in the east and south.</p>

<p>Three of the five Storm-Z fighters interviewed by Reuters, and the relatives of three other Storm-Z fighters, described nightmarish engagements that saw much of their squads wiped out.</p>

<p>One fighter, with a conviction for theft who was recruited from prison, said all but 15 of the 120 men in his unit embedded with the 237th regiment were killed or wounded in fighting near Bakhmut in June.</p>

<p>The deployment of such squads marks a departure for Russia in Ukraine: while the Wagner mercenary group - now being disbanded after a June mutiny - sent convicts to fight on the frontline, the Storm-Z units come under the direct command of the defence ministry.</p>

<p>The squads also combine convicts who volunteer to fight in exchange for the promise of a pardon with regular soldiers being punished for disciplinary breaches, the people interviewed said.</p>

<p>The Storm-Z squads are useful to the Russian defence ministry because they can be deployed as expendable infantry, according to Conflict Intelligence Team, an independent organisation that's tracking the war. "The Storm fighters are just sent to the most dangerous parts of the front, in defence and in attack," the group, which was founded in Russia, told Reuters.</p>

<p>While the Russian defence ministry has never acknowledged creating Storm-Z units, the first reports of their existence emerged in April when the Institute for the Study of War, a U.S.-based think-tank, cited what it said appeared to be a leaked Russian military report on the formation of the squads.</p>

<p>Reuters wasn't able to determine how many soldiers in total are serving in the units, though the interviews with the people familiar with the matter point to at least several hundred Storm-Z fighters currently being deployed on the frontline.</p>

<p>Wagner had about 25,000 fighters engaged in the conflict, its late leader Yevgeny Prigozhin said at the time of his June mutiny.</p>

<p>President Vladimir Putin made reference to convicts fighting in the regular army on Friday. At a televised meeting with a small group of regular Russian servicemen, he said he was aware that two of their comrades, former prison inmates, had been killed in action. "They gave their lives for the motherland and have fully absolved themselves of their guilt," said Putin, adding that the convicts' families would be given help, without elaborating.</p>

<p>There is historical precedent for military offenders being pressed into fighting units; in 1942, when the Red Army was retreating from a Nazi advance, Soviet leader Josef Stalin ordered soldiers who panicked or left their posts into "punishment battalions" deployed to the most dangerous parts of the front, according to a decree he signed.</p>

<p>Ukraine's government has said it also releases some convicts if they agree to fight in the war.</p>

<h2><strong>From custody to carnage</strong></h2>

<p>Storm-Z is an unofficial term used by Russian troops, combining a term for assault troops with the letter Z, adopted by the military as a symbol of their invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>Artyom Shchikin, a 29-year-old from the Mordovia region in central Russia, was serving a two-year sentence for robbery handed down in December 2021 when defence ministry recruiters came to his jail asking if inmates wanted to go and fight in Ukraine, according to court records and two of his relatives.</p>

<p>He signed up because, even though he was scheduled for release in December this year, he wanted to wipe clean his criminal record plus earn money so his family could renovate their home, his family members said. Three Storm-Z fighters said they were offered wages of about 200,000 roubles ($2,000) per month, though said they had been paid roughly half that amount, on average.</p>

<p>By May this year, Shchikin was assigned to a penal unit within the 291st Guards Motorised Rifle Regiment and deployed to the Zaporizhzhia region in southern Ukraine, where Kyiv's forces are trying to break through Russian defences, the relatives added.</p>

<p>An official with the regimental headquarters didn't respond to Reuters questions.</p>

<p>Vladimir Rogov, an official in the Russian-installed administration in Zaporizhzhia who gives regular online updates about the conflict, has posted on Telegram that the 291st regiment was fighting in the region throughout the summer. Rogov didn't respond to a Reuters request for comment.</p>

<p>Shchikin's relatives last heard from him on June 18.</p>

<p>Days later, his unit's positions came under Ukrainian fire, the relatives said, citing conversations with two survivors from Shchikin's squad. Three comrades who had been in a trench with him were killed, another had his hand torn off, while Shchikin himself is missing, the relatives said. His body hasn't been recovered.</p>

<p>Shchikin's relatives said when they asked the defence ministry for answers about his fate, it either didn't respond or didn't give any definitive answers.</p>

<p>"They were from a Storm unit. For them, no one is going to be in a rush," said one relative.</p>

<p>Reuters was unable to independently confirm the relatives' account of events.</p>

<h2><strong>Drunk on duty, using drugs</strong></h2>

<p>While convicts form the core of the penal squads, some regular soldiers have been assigned to them as punishment for breaking discipline, according to two soldiers who said members of their units had been transferred in this way, as well as a Storm-Z fighter called Igor, a convict jailed for attempted murder.</p>

<p>The two soldiers, including the one from unit no. 40318, said officers had sent soldiers to Storm-Z for being drunk on duty, for using drugs, and for refusing to carry out orders.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Truck-mounted Caesar Howitzers for Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>According to Russian legislation on military discipline, a soldier can only be transferred to a penal unit if convicted by a military court. None of the people who told Reuters of soldiers being sent to Storm-Z said the men had participated in a court hearing. Contacted last week, the soldier from unit no. 40318 said there were no court hearings involved in such transfers, and Igor, the Storm-Z fighter, said he had no knowledge of court hearings having taken place.</p>

<p>The Geneva convention, a set of international rules of war, doesn't cover soldiers being punished by their own side.</p>

<h2><strong>Revolt of Storm-Z fighters</strong></h2>

<p>One group of about 20 Storm-Z fighters in Zaporizhzhia, who were part of unit number 22179, decided they'd had enough of their treatment, refused an order to go back to the frontline, and recorded a June 28 video complaining about their treatment. Reuters called numbers listed for the unit, but they were out of operation.</p>

<p>"On the frontline, where we've been, we did not get deliveries of ammunition. We did not get water or food. The injured were not taken away: still now the dead are rotting," said a fighter in the video, whom Reuters was unable to identify.</p>

<p>"We're given dreadful orders that are not even worth carrying out," he added. "We refuse to continue carrying out combat missions."</p>

<p>Reuters established the identities of two of the fighters involved in the revolt, and spoke to a relative of each man who corroborated the account in the video, which was published on June 28 by Gulagu.net, a France-based campaign group for Russian prisoners' rights, and reviewed by Reuters.</p>

<p>After the video was published, military police officers beat up the two fighters, and others in their squad, as punishment for their revolt, the two relatives said. Since then, they said the two fighters had told them that conditions had improved but they did not know when the men would be allowed to quit the military.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/burger-king-continues-to-remain-open-in-russia-even-after-pledge-to-exit-642085"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Burger King continues to remain open in Russia even after pledge to exit</strong></a></p>

<p>Russian officials have made no public comment about the incident, and the defence ministry didn't reply to Reuters queries.</p>

<p>The family member of one of the soldiers in the revolt, a man from Siberia who had volunteered to join Storm-Z from prison, said she dreaded news from the front.</p>

<p>"My God, let this end soon," she said of the war.<br />
&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</strong></em></p>

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Drunk recruits. Insubordinate soldiers. Convicts. They're among hundreds of military and civilian offenders who've been pressed into Russian penal units known as "Storm-Z" squads and sent to the frontlines in Ukraine this year, according to 13 people with knowledge of the matter, including five fighters in the units.

Drunk recruits. Insubordinate soldiers. Convicts. They're among hundreds of military and civilian offenders who've been pressed into Russian penal units known as "Storm-Z" squads and sent to the frontlines in Ukraine this year, according to 13 people with knowledge of the matter, including five fighters in the units. Few live to tell their tale, the people said. "Storm fighters, they're just meat," said one regular soldier from army unit no. 40318 who was deployed near the fiercely contested city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine in May and June. He said he'd given medical treatment to a group of six or seven wounded Storm-Z fighters on the battlefield, disobeying an order from a commander - whose name he didn't know - to leave the men. He said he didn't know why the commander gave the order, but claimed that it typified how Storm-Z fighters were considered of lesser value than ordinary troops by officers. The soldier, who requested anonymity because he feared prosecution in Russia for publicly discussing the war, said he had sympathy for the men's plight: "If the commandants catch anyone with the smell of alcohol on their breath, then they immediately send them to the Storm squads." When contacted by Reuters, an officer at unit no. 40318 declined to comment on Storm-Z and ended the call. The Kremlin referred Reuters questions to the Russian defence ministry, which didn't respond to a request for comment. Russian state-controlled media has reported that Storm-Z squads exist, that they took part in intense battles and some of their members received medals for bravery, but it has not disclosed how they are formed, or the losses they take. Reuters is the first news organisation to compile a comprehensive account of how the squads are put together and deployed, by speaking to multiple sources with direct knowledge of what is happening. Like the soldier from unit no. 40318, the 13 people interviewed - who also include four relatives of Storm-Z members as well as three soldiers in regular units who interacted with the squads - all requested anonymity, citing fear of reprisals. Reuters verified the identities of all the fighters involved using criminal records, social media accounts, or by speaking to their fellow serviceman and their families. The penal squads, each about 100-150 strong and embedded within regular army units, have typically been sent to the most exposed parts of the front and often sustain heavy losses, according to Reuters interviews with the people, who identified at least five Storm-Z teams fighting to repel a Ukrainian counteroffensive in the east and south. Three of the five Storm-Z fighters interviewed by Reuters, and the relatives of three other Storm-Z fighters, described nightmarish engagements that saw much of their squads wiped out. One fighter, with a conviction for theft who was recruited from prison, said all but 15 of the 120 men in his unit embedded with the 237th regiment were killed or wounded in fighting near Bakhmut in June. The deployment of such squads marks a departure for Russia in Ukraine: while the Wagner mercenary group - now being disbanded after a June mutiny - sent convicts to fight on the frontline, the Storm-Z units come under the direct command of the defence ministry. The squads also combine convicts who volunteer to fight in exchange for the promise of a pardon with regular soldiers being punished for disciplinary breaches, the people interviewed said. The Storm-Z squads are useful to the Russian defence ministry because they can be deployed as expendable infantry, according to Conflict Intelligence Team, an independent organisation that's tracking the war. "The Storm fighters are just sent to the most dangerous parts of the front, in defence and in attack," the group, which was founded in Russia, told Reuters. While the Russian defence ministry has never acknowledged creating Storm-Z units, the first reports of their existence emerged in April when the Institute for the Study of War, a U.S.-based think-tank, cited what it said appeared to be a leaked Russian military report on the formation of the squads. Reuters wasn't able to determine how many soldiers in total are serving in the units, though the interviews with the people familiar with the matter point to at least several hundred Storm-Z fighters currently being deployed on the frontline. Wagner had about 25,000 fighters engaged in the conflict, its late leader Yevgeny Prigozhin said at the time of his June mutiny. President Vladimir Putin made reference to convicts fighting in the regular army on Friday. At a televised meeting with a small group of regular Russian servicemen, he said he was aware that two of their comrades, former prison inmates, had been killed in action. "They gave their lives for the motherland and have fully absolved themselves of their guilt," said Putin, adding that the convicts' families would be given help, without elaborating. There is historical precedent for military offenders being pressed into fighting units; in 1942, when the Red Army was retreating from a Nazi advance, Soviet leader Josef Stalin ordered soldiers who panicked or left their posts into "punishment battalions" deployed to the most dangerous parts of the front, according to a decree he signed. Ukraine's government has said it also releases some convicts if they agree to fight in the war. From custody to carnage Storm-Z is an unofficial term used by Russian troops, combining a term for assault troops with the letter Z, adopted by the military as a symbol of their invasion of Ukraine. Artyom Shchikin, a 29-year-old from the Mordovia region in central Russia, was serving a two-year sentence for robbery handed down in December 2021 when defence ministry recruiters came to his jail asking if inmates wanted to go and fight in Ukraine, according to court records and two of his relatives. He signed up because, even though he was scheduled for release in December this year, he wanted to wipe clean his criminal record plus earn money so his family could renovate their home, his family members said. Three Storm-Z fighters said they were offered wages of about 200,000 roubles ($2,000) per month, though said they had been paid roughly half that amount, on average. By May this year, Shchikin was assigned to a penal unit within the 291st Guards Motorised Rifle Regiment and deployed to the Zaporizhzhia region in southern Ukraine, where Kyiv's forces are trying to break through Russian defences, the relatives added. An official with the regimental headquarters didn't respond to Reuters questions. Vladimir Rogov, an official in the Russian-installed administration in Zaporizhzhia who gives regular online updates about the conflict, has posted on Telegram that the 291st regiment was fighting in the region throughout the summer. Rogov didn't respond to a Reuters request for comment. Shchikin's relatives last heard from him on June 18. Days later, his unit's positions came under Ukrainian fire, the relatives said, citing conversations with two survivors from Shchikin's squad. Three comrades who had been in a trench with him were killed, another had his hand torn off, while Shchikin himself is missing, the relatives said. His body hasn't been recovered. Shchikin's relatives said when they asked the defence ministry for answers about his fate, it either didn't respond or didn't give any definitive answers. "They were from a Storm unit. For them, no one is going to be in a rush," said one relative. Reuters was unable to independently confirm the relatives' account of events. Drunk on duty, using drugs While convicts form the core of the penal squads, some regular soldiers have been assigned to them as punishment for breaking discipline, according to two soldiers who said members of their units had been transferred in this way, as well as a Storm-Z fighter called Igor, a convict jailed for attempted murder. The two soldiers, including the one from unit no. 40318, said officers had sent soldiers to Storm-Z for being drunk on duty, for using drugs, and for refusing to carry out orders. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Truck-mounted Caesar Howitzers for Ukraine × According to Russian legislation on military discipline, a soldier can only be transferred to a penal unit if convicted by a military court. None of the people who told Reuters of soldiers being sent to Storm-Z said the men had participated in a court hearing. Contacted last week, the soldier from unit no. 40318 said there were no court hearings involved in such transfers, and Igor, the Storm-Z fighter, said he had no knowledge of court hearings having taken place. The Geneva convention, a set of international rules of war, doesn't cover soldiers being punished by their own side. Revolt of Storm-Z fighters One group of about 20 Storm-Z fighters in Zaporizhzhia, who were part of unit number 22179, decided they'd had enough of their treatment, refused an order to go back to the frontline, and recorded a June 28 video complaining about their treatment. Reuters called numbers listed for the unit, but they were out of operation. "On the frontline, where we've been, we did not get deliveries of ammunition. We did not get water or food. The injured were not taken away: still now the dead are rotting," said a fighter in the video, whom Reuters was unable to identify. "We're given dreadful orders that are not even worth carrying out," he added. "We refuse to continue carrying out combat missions." Reuters established the identities of two of the fighters involved in the revolt, and spoke to a relative of each man who corroborated the account in the video, which was published on June 28 by Gulagu.net, a France-based campaign group for Russian prisoners' rights, and reviewed by Reuters. After the video was published, military police officers beat up the two fighters, and others in their squad, as punishment for their revolt, the two relatives said. Since then, they said the two fighters had told them that conditions had improved but they did not know when the men would be allowed to quit the military. Also read: Burger King continues to remain open in Russia even after pledge to exit Russian officials have made no public comment about the incident, and the defence ministry didn't reply to Reuters queries. The family member of one of the soldiers in the revolt, a man from Siberia who had volunteered to join Storm-Z from prison, said she dreaded news from the front. "My God, let this end soon," she said of the war. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia's 'Storm-Z' squads: Tale of hundreds of offenders sent to frontlines to fight Ukraine

<p>The Ukrainian parliament and its speaker on Monday (Oct 2) taunted billionaire Elon Musk after he posted a meme on social media apparently mocking President Volodymyr Zelensky's efforts for Western aid for its war with Russia.</p>

<p>Musk posted the meme in early hours of Monday (Indian time) on X (formerly Twitter), the social media platform he owns. The template of the meme has been taken from an already famous one, but a photo of anguished-looking Zelensky is superimposed on the body of the boy in the original meme. The boy carries similar expressions in the original meme.</p>

<p>"When its been 5 minutes and you haven't asked for a billion dollars in aid" reads the text in the image. Zelensky has not been mentioned by name in the text.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="zxx"><a href="https://t.co/W9i9YEM8uA">pic.twitter.com/W9i9YEM8uA</a></p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1708629197617336398?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ruslan Stefanchuk, the speaker or Ukrainian parliament, lashed out at Musk in his own post on X.</p>

<p>"The case when ...(Elon Musk) tried to conquer space, but something went wrong and in 5 minutes he was up to his eyeballs in s***," reads the post in an apparent reference to SpaceX's failed rocket launch in April.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The case when a dude <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a> tried to conquer space, but something went wrong and in 5 minutes he was up to his eyeballs in shit. <a href="https://t.co/4SW9dJNJvt">https://t.co/4SW9dJNJvt</a></p>
— Ruslan Stefanchuk (@r_stefanchuk) <a href="https://twitter.com/r_stefanchuk/status/1708748542339174512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Musk owns SpaceX, the Starlink satellite communication service of which is of vital importance for Ukraine military as it fights Russian forces. However, Musk and Ukrainian officials have sparred on social media in past, often after some comment from the billionaire.</p>

<p>In addition to Stefanchuk's post from his personal account, a rebuff has come from Ukrainian parliament's official page on X as well. The post accuseses Musk of spreading Russian propaganda.</p>

<p>"When it's been 5 minutes and you haven't spread Russian propaganda," reads the text.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="zxx"><a href="https://t.co/QlqUhjvQg2">pic.twitter.com/QlqUhjvQg2</a></p>
— Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine - Ukrainian Parliament (@ua_parliament) <a href="https://twitter.com/ua_parliament/status/1708773082997940549?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Mykhailo Podolyak, a Ukrainian presidential adviser, shot back at Musk as well</p>

<p>"Unfortunately, not everyone and not always, while being significant media figures, but being thousands of kilometres away from the war's epicenter, is able to realize what the daily bombardments and cries of children losing their parents are," he posted on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Any support for Russia today is a direct investment in war, genocide, destruction of the free world, escalation and the right to impunity. Any silence or irony towards Ukraine today is a direct encouragement of Russian propaganda that justifies mass violence and destruction.…</p>
— Михайло Подоляк (@Podolyak_M) <a href="https://twitter.com/Podolyak_M/status/1708788982480294188?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Musk has earlier faced flak from Ukrainian officials for suggesting that Ukraine should consider giving up land to Russia for peace. Ukraine has staunchly rejected such a possibility.</p>

<p>Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. After initial success, it was soon clear to the Russian forces that fall of Ukraine would not be a matter of week as was anticipated earlier.</p>

<p>The Western countries-led by the US have poured in billions of dollars in humanitarian as well as military aid in Ukraine. The West has also sent weapons to better arm the Ukrainian forces.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Ukrainian parliament and its speaker on Monday (Oct 2) taunted billionaire Elon Musk after he posted a meme on social media apparently mocking President Volodymyr Zelensky's efforts for Western aid for its war with Russia.

The Ukrainian parliament and its speaker on Monday (Oct 2) taunted billionaire Elon Musk after he posted a meme on social media apparently mocking President Volodymyr Zelensky's efforts for Western aid for its war with Russia. Musk posted the meme in early hours of Monday (Indian time) on X (formerly Twitter), the social media platform he owns. The template of the meme has been taken from an already famous one, but a photo of anguished-looking Zelensky is superimposed on the body of the boy in the original meme. The boy carries similar expressions in the original meme. "When its been 5 minutes and you haven't asked for a billion dollars in aid" reads the text in the image. Zelensky has not been mentioned by name in the text. pic.twitter.com/W9i9YEM8uA — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 1, 2023 × Ruslan Stefanchuk, the speaker or Ukrainian parliament, lashed out at Musk in his own post on X. "The case when ...(Elon Musk) tried to conquer space, but something went wrong and in 5 minutes he was up to his eyeballs in s***," reads the post in an apparent reference to SpaceX's failed rocket launch in April. The case when a dude @elonmusk tried to conquer space, but something went wrong and in 5 minutes he was up to his eyeballs in shit. https://t.co/4SW9dJNJvt — Ruslan Stefanchuk (@r_stefanchuk) October 2, 2023 × Musk owns SpaceX, the Starlink satellite communication service of which is of vital importance for Ukraine military as it fights Russian forces. However, Musk and Ukrainian officials have sparred on social media in past, often after some comment from the billionaire. In addition to Stefanchuk's post from his personal account, a rebuff has come from Ukrainian parliament's official page on X as well. The post accuseses Musk of spreading Russian propaganda. "When it's been 5 minutes and you haven't spread Russian propaganda," reads the text. pic.twitter.com/QlqUhjvQg2 — Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine - Ukrainian Parliament (@ua_parliament) October 2, 2023 × Mykhailo Podolyak, a Ukrainian presidential adviser, shot back at Musk as well "Unfortunately, not everyone and not always, while being significant media figures, but being thousands of kilometres away from the war's epicenter, is able to realize what the daily bombardments and cries of children losing their parents are," he posted on X. Any support for Russia today is a direct investment in war, genocide, destruction of the free world, escalation and the right to impunity. Any silence or irony towards Ukraine today is a direct encouragement of Russian propaganda that justifies mass violence and destruction.… — Михайло Подоляк (@Podolyak_M) October 2, 2023 × Musk has earlier faced flak from Ukrainian officials for suggesting that Ukraine should consider giving up land to Russia for peace. Ukraine has staunchly rejected such a possibility. Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. After initial success, it was soon clear to the Russian forces that fall of Ukraine would not be a matter of week as was anticipated earlier. The Western countries-led by the US have poured in billions of dollars in humanitarian as well as military aid in Ukraine. The West has also sent weapons to better arm the Ukrainian forces. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine taunts Elon Musk after he posts meme mocking Zelensky

<p>Russian officials on Sunday (Oct 1) reported a wave of attacks by Ukrainian drones and shelling which left three people injured and forced an airport to divert flights, reported news agency AFP. Russia also claims to have shot down six Ukrainian drones over Russian regions and two Ukrainian missiles over Crimea.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine shelling injured three in Belgorod: Governor&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Governor of Russia’s Belgorod region which borders Ukraine, Vyacheslav Gladkov, said that on Sunday morning Ukrainian forces shelled the area of the central market in Shebekino.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “According to preliminary information, there are three victims – a woman suffered shrapnel wounds to the neck... Two other men suffered shrapnel wounds to their legs.”</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the governor of Russia’s Bryansk region, which also borders Ukraine, said Ukrainian shelling hit a village and damaged houses and two administrative buildings but that there were no casualties, according to AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia shoots down Ukrainian drones and missiles</strong></h2>

<p>The Russian air defence system shot down a Ukrainian drone in the southern Krasnodar region, on the Black Sea coast, at around 0500 GMT, said Moscow’s defence ministry, as per Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, it also claimed to have shot down three drones over the western Smolensk region, west of Moscow, around 0600 GMT and two more over the region around an hour later.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“An attempt by the Kyiv regime to carry out a terrorist attack with two operational-tactical Grom-2 missiles was thwarted,” said the Russian defence ministry in a statement, adding that missiles were shot down over the Dzhankoi region.</p>

<p>The Russian defence ministry on Sunday also said that the country’s air defences had intercepted five United States-made HIMARS shells, an air-launched JDAM bomb and 37 Ukrainian drones over Ukrainian territory in the last 24 hours.</p>

<p>Russia said those interceptions had occurred on the territory where Moscow is fighting what it calls a “special military operation”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sergei Aksyonov, the Russia-installed head of Crimea, which was annexed by Moscow in 2014, said that there were no casualties due to the reported attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Temporary flight restriction’ in Russia</strong></h2>

<p>The international airport in the Russian city of Sochi, on the Black Sea coast, delayed 13 flights and cancelled one, following the attack, according to the British newspaper Daily Express.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“On the morning of 1 October, Sochi airport imposed a temporary flight restriction. Six flights were diverted to alternate aerodromes,” said Sochi International Airport in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>AFP also reported a brief closure of the Crimea bridge, which connects the Moscow-annexed peninsula to the Russian mainland, on Sunday, but the reason was not immediately known.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine shoots down 16 of 30 Russian drones</strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian Air Forces, on Sunday (Oct 1) claimed to have shot down 16 out of around 30 drones that Russia launched on Ukraine's territory overnight. The drones were launched from the southern, southeastern and northern directions, said the Ukrainian forces, on Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Officials also reported an attack in the central Ukrainian Cherkasy region, where one person was reportedly injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“At night, the enemy massively attacked our Cherkasy region with attack drones. Unfortunately, there were hits on industrial infrastructure in (the city of) Uman,” said Cherkasy Governor Ihor Taburets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “As a result, fires broke out in warehouses. In particular, where grain was stored.” Taburets also said that one person was injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a statement by the Ukrainian presidential office also reported damage to civilian infrastructure and warehouses in southern Mykolaiv region and eastern Dnipropetrovsk region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

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Russian officials on Sunday (Oct 1) reported a wave of attacks by Ukrainian drones and shelling which left three people injured and forced an airport to divert flights, reported news agency AFP.

Russian officials on Sunday (Oct 1) reported a wave of attacks by Ukrainian drones and shelling which left three people injured and forced an airport to divert flights, reported news agency AFP. Russia also claims to have shot down six Ukrainian drones over Russian regions and two Ukrainian missiles over Crimea. Ukraine shelling injured three in Belgorod: Governor Governor of Russia’s Belgorod region which borders Ukraine, Vyacheslav Gladkov, said that on Sunday morning Ukrainian forces shelled the area of the central market in Shebekino. He added, “According to preliminary information, there are three victims – a woman suffered shrapnel wounds to the neck... Two other men suffered shrapnel wounds to their legs.” Meanwhile, the governor of Russia’s Bryansk region, which also borders Ukraine, said Ukrainian shelling hit a village and damaged houses and two administrative buildings but that there were no casualties, according to AFP. Russia shoots down Ukrainian drones and missiles The Russian air defence system shot down a Ukrainian drone in the southern Krasnodar region, on the Black Sea coast, at around 0500 GMT, said Moscow’s defence ministry, as per Reuters. Furthermore, it also claimed to have shot down three drones over the western Smolensk region, west of Moscow, around 0600 GMT and two more over the region around an hour later. “An attempt by the Kyiv regime to carry out a terrorist attack with two operational-tactical Grom-2 missiles was thwarted,” said the Russian defence ministry in a statement, adding that missiles were shot down over the Dzhankoi region. The Russian defence ministry on Sunday also said that the country’s air defences had intercepted five United States-made HIMARS shells, an air-launched JDAM bomb and 37 Ukrainian drones over Ukrainian territory in the last 24 hours. Russia said those interceptions had occurred on the territory where Moscow is fighting what it calls a “special military operation”. Sergei Aksyonov, the Russia-installed head of Crimea, which was annexed by Moscow in 2014, said that there were no casualties due to the reported attacks. ‘Temporary flight restriction’ in Russia The international airport in the Russian city of Sochi, on the Black Sea coast, delayed 13 flights and cancelled one, following the attack, according to the British newspaper Daily Express. “On the morning of 1 October, Sochi airport imposed a temporary flight restriction. Six flights were diverted to alternate aerodromes,” said Sochi International Airport in a statement. AFP also reported a brief closure of the Crimea bridge, which connects the Moscow-annexed peninsula to the Russian mainland, on Sunday, but the reason was not immediately known. Ukraine shoots down 16 of 30 Russian drones Ukrainian Air Forces, on Sunday (Oct 1) claimed to have shot down 16 out of around 30 drones that Russia launched on Ukraine's territory overnight. The drones were launched from the southern, southeastern and northern directions, said the Ukrainian forces, on Telegram. Officials also reported an attack in the central Ukrainian Cherkasy region, where one person was reportedly injured. “At night, the enemy massively attacked our Cherkasy region with attack drones. Unfortunately, there were hits on industrial infrastructure in (the city of) Uman,” said Cherkasy Governor Ihor Taburets. He added, “As a result, fires broke out in warehouses. In particular, where grain was stored.” Taburets also said that one person was injured. Meanwhile, a statement by the Ukrainian presidential office also reported damage to civilian infrastructure and warehouses in southern Mykolaiv region and eastern Dnipropetrovsk region. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At least three injured in Russian regions hit by Ukrainian shelling, drones: Moscow

Inflation in Europe's largest economy fell in September to its lowest level since the Ukraine war. This is likely to be seen as the beginning of the end for the high inflation that has weighed heavily on Germany's economy. Preliminary data from the federal statistics office showed on Thursday that German consumer prices rose by an annual 4.3% in September.

Inflationary pressure eases in Germany

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin was on Friday (Sep 29) and was seen meeting Andrei Troshev, who is one of the most senior former commanders of the Wagner mercenary group. State media reported that the Russian leader discussed how best to use "volunteer units" in the Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Kremlin statement noted that Putin has tasked Troshev, the former aide of late Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, to oversee volunteer fighter units in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin was quoted as telling Troshev, "At the last meeting we talked about you overseeing the formation of volunteer units that can carry out various tasks, first and foremost of course in the zone of the special military operation."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-president-volodymyr-zelensky-keen-on-india-visit-later-this-year-640807">Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky 'keen' to visit India later this year</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Deputy Defence Minister Yunus-Bek Yevkurov also attended the meeting, which highlighted the Kremlin's attempt to demonstrate that the state had regained control of the mercenary force following a failed coup in June by Prigozhin, who died with nine other people when a plane flying from Moscow to Saint Petersburg crashed on August 23.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, who has travelled over recent months to several countries where Wagner mercenaries have worked, was also present, sitting closest to Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Kremlin, the meeting took place late on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said during the meeting that they had spoken about how "volunteer units that can perform various combat tasks, above all, of course, in the zone of the special military operation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said, "You yourself have been fighting in such a unit for more than a year. You know what it is, how it is done, you know about the issues that need to be resolved in advance so that the combat work goes in the best and most successful way."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-vladimir-putin-meets-chechen-warlord-ramzan-kadyrov-believed-to-be-in-coma-640937">Russia’s Vladimir Putin meets Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov believed to be in coma</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch this video:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>What does this meeting indicate?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>A report by the news agency Reuters said that the meeting appears to indicate that Troshev and Yevkurov will now supervise what remains of Wagner, which originally had tens of thousands of soldiers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year on Feb 24, Wagner gained prominence for its May capture of the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. Wagner's forces withdrew from Ukraine following Bakhmut's defeat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian sources have told Reuters that some of the Wagner fighters have signed up for service with the formal Russian army while many others have moved into different private military companies (PMCs).&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</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin was on Friday (Sep 29) and was seen meeting Andrei Troshev, who is one of the most senior former commanders of the Wagner mercenary group.

Russian President Vladimir Putin was on Friday (Sep 29) and was seen meeting Andrei Troshev, who is one of the most senior former commanders of the Wagner mercenary group. State media reported that the Russian leader discussed how best to use "volunteer units" in the Ukraine war. A Kremlin statement noted that Putin has tasked Troshev, the former aide of late Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, to oversee volunteer fighter units in Ukraine. Putin was quoted as telling Troshev, "At the last meeting we talked about you overseeing the formation of volunteer units that can carry out various tasks, first and foremost of course in the zone of the special military operation." Also read: Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky 'keen' to visit India later this year Deputy Defence Minister Yunus-Bek Yevkurov also attended the meeting, which highlighted the Kremlin's attempt to demonstrate that the state had regained control of the mercenary force following a failed coup in June by Prigozhin, who died with nine other people when a plane flying from Moscow to Saint Petersburg crashed on August 23. Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, who has travelled over recent months to several countries where Wagner mercenaries have worked, was also present, sitting closest to Putin. According to the Kremlin, the meeting took place late on Thursday. Putin said during the meeting that they had spoken about how "volunteer units that can perform various combat tasks, above all, of course, in the zone of the special military operation." Putin said, "You yourself have been fighting in such a unit for more than a year. You know what it is, how it is done, you know about the issues that need to be resolved in advance so that the combat work goes in the best and most successful way." Also read: Russia’s Vladimir Putin meets Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov believed to be in coma Watch this video: × What does this meeting indicate? A report by the news agency Reuters said that the meeting appears to indicate that Troshev and Yevkurov will now supervise what remains of Wagner, which originally had tens of thousands of soldiers. During the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year on Feb 24, Wagner gained prominence for its May capture of the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. Wagner's forces withdrew from Ukraine following Bakhmut's defeat. Russian sources have told Reuters that some of the Wagner fighters have signed up for service with the formal Russian army while many others have moved into different private military companies (PMCs). Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin discusses Ukraine war with former Prigozhin aide. What does this indicate?

<p>Russia said on Thursday (September 28) that it was planning a major increase of 70 per cent in its defece spending. The country plans to funnel massive resources into its Ukraine offensive which is calls 'special military operation' and also a 'hybrid war' unleashed by the West.</p>

<p>Russia's Ukraine offensive is now dragged towards its twentieth month. Troops of both the countries have been digging deep and are preparing for what appears to be developing into a protracted conflict.</p>

<p>The latest announcement from Russia has come close on the heels of NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg's Kyiv visit. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky lobbied for more air defence systems.</p>

<p>Defence ministers of Britain and France visited Kyiv as well.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow alleges US, UK aided Ukraine missile strike in Crimea</strong></p>

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<p>Ukraine's newly appointed defence minister Rustem Umerov, after meeting with his British counterpart Grant Shapps, said, "Winter is coming but we are ready."</p>

<p>According to a document from Russian finance ministry, defence spending is set to jump by over 68 per cent year-on-year to almost 10.8 trillion rubles ($111.15 billion) -- more than spending allocated for social policy.</p>

<p>"It is obvious that such an increase is necessary, absolutely necessary, because we are in a state of hybrid war, we are continuing the special military operation," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm referring to the hybrid war that has been unleashed against us," he said.</p>

<p>AFP said that defence spending in 2024 is set to be around three times than education, environmental protection and healthcare spending combined.</p>

<p>"The focus of economic policy is shifting from an anti-crisis agenda to the promotion of national development goals," the finance ministry said in the document.</p>

<p>It said this included "strengthening the country's defence capacity" and "integrating" four Ukrainian regions Moscow claims to have annexed last year -- Lugansk, Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia.</p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously shrugged off Ukraine war's effect on economy. He has said that Russia has weathered the effect of Western sanctions.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-alleges-us-uk-aided-ukraine-missile-strike-on-crimea-naval-hq-640342">Moscow alleges US, UK aided Ukraine missile strike on Crimea naval headquarters</a></strong></p>

<p>However, Russia's central bank recently warned that economic growth was likely to slow this year and ordinary Russians may have to face rising prices.</p>

<p>Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained gains in first few months, Russian forces had to withdraw from many territories of Ukraine. The West, led by the US, has poured billions and billions into Ukraine in humanitarian and military aid. It was expected that Ukraine, with the help of Western weapons, would be able to stage an effective counter-offensive against Russia. But the progress of the counter-offensive has been slow and Ukraine has not been able retake large swathes of territory as it was initially expected.</p>

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Russia said on Thursday (September 28) that it was planning a major increase of 70 per cent in its defece spending. The country plans to funnel massive resources into its Ukraine offensive which is calls 'special military operation' and also a 'hybrid war' unleashed by the West.

Russia said on Thursday (September 28) that it was planning a major increase of 70 per cent in its defece spending. The country plans to funnel massive resources into its Ukraine offensive which is calls 'special military operation' and also a 'hybrid war' unleashed by the West. Russia's Ukraine offensive is now dragged towards its twentieth month. Troops of both the countries have been digging deep and are preparing for what appears to be developing into a protracted conflict. The latest announcement from Russia has come close on the heels of NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg's Kyiv visit. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky lobbied for more air defence systems. Defence ministers of Britain and France visited Kyiv as well. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow alleges US, UK aided Ukraine missile strike in Crimea × Ukraine's newly appointed defence minister Rustem Umerov, after meeting with his British counterpart Grant Shapps, said, "Winter is coming but we are ready." According to a document from Russian finance ministry, defence spending is set to jump by over 68 per cent year-on-year to almost 10.8 trillion rubles ($111.15 billion) -- more than spending allocated for social policy. "It is obvious that such an increase is necessary, absolutely necessary, because we are in a state of hybrid war, we are continuing the special military operation," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. "I'm referring to the hybrid war that has been unleashed against us," he said. AFP said that defence spending in 2024 is set to be around three times than education, environmental protection and healthcare spending combined. "The focus of economic policy is shifting from an anti-crisis agenda to the promotion of national development goals," the finance ministry said in the document. It said this included "strengthening the country's defence capacity" and "integrating" four Ukrainian regions Moscow claims to have annexed last year -- Lugansk, Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously shrugged off Ukraine war's effect on economy. He has said that Russia has weathered the effect of Western sanctions. Also Read | Moscow alleges US, UK aided Ukraine missile strike on Crimea naval headquarters However, Russia's central bank recently warned that economic growth was likely to slow this year and ordinary Russians may have to face rising prices. Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained gains in first few months, Russian forces had to withdraw from many territories of Ukraine. The West, led by the US, has poured billions and billions into Ukraine in humanitarian and military aid. It was expected that Ukraine, with the help of Western weapons, would be able to stage an effective counter-offensive against Russia. But the progress of the counter-offensive has been slow and Ukraine has not been able retake large swathes of territory as it was initially expected. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia plans major increase in defence spending for edge in Ukraine war

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<p>Russia said on Monday (September 25) that its air defence forces shot down a missile over&nbsp;Russian-annexed Crimea.&nbsp;"Our military is repelling a missile attack. According to preliminary data, air defence shot down one missile near the Belbek airfield. Work continues," Moscow-installed governor&nbsp;of Sevastopol Mikhail Razvozhayev said on Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Razvozhayev said that authorities declared&nbsp;an air raid alert across the region at&nbsp;8.57 pm (1757 GMT).&nbsp;About an hour later, the governor announced the air raid alert was over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine&nbsp;has targeted Crimea throughout Russia's offensive but attacks on military installations there have recently intensified.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russian air strikes kill 4 in Ukraine; grain facilities damaged</strong></h2>

<p>The above development comes as Russian air strikes on Monday killed four people in Ukraine and caused significant damage to infrastructure at the Black Sea port of Odesa and to grain storage facilities. Sharing a post on X, Ukraine's Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko said, "Another massive attack on Odesa. The attack resulted in the destruction of grain storage facilities and significant damage to the seaport."</p>

<p>According to a report by the news agency Reuters early Tuesday, Odesa region Governor Oleh Kiper said the facilities that were hit contained almost 1,000 tonnes of grain and that the bodies of two men were found under the rubble of a warehouse.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Separately, Ukrainian officials said that two more people were killed in a separate air strike on the town of Beryslav in the southern Kherson region.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Air attacks intensified</strong></h2>

<p>Monday's air strikes were part of a campaign that has made it harder for major grain producer Ukraine to export its products since Moscow quit a deal in mid-July. Reuters reported that the strikes have intensified as Ukraine presses on with a counteroffensive in the south and east that has made slow gains.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the counteroffensive can see a boost as President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that the United States delivered Abrams tanks to Ukraine. "Abrams are already in Ukraine and are preparing to reinforce our brigades," Zelensky said in a post on social media.</p>

<p>He did not elaborate on how many tanks arrived or how much time would be required to deploy them to the front line.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The announcement came just after Ukraine claimed it had killed the commander of Russia's Black Sea fleet in a missile strike on Moscow's naval headquarters in Crimea last week in what would be a major embarrassment for Russia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russia said on Monday (September 25) that its air defence forces shot down a missile over Russian-annexed Crimea. "Our military is repelling a missile attack. According to preliminary data, air defence shot down one missile near the Belbek airfield.

Russia said on Monday (September 25) that its air defence forces shot down a missile over Russian-annexed Crimea. "Our military is repelling a missile attack. According to preliminary data, air defence shot down one missile near the Belbek airfield. Work continues," Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol Mikhail Razvozhayev said on Telegram. Razvozhayev said that authorities declared an air raid alert across the region at 8.57 pm (1757 GMT). About an hour later, the governor announced the air raid alert was over. Ukraine has targeted Crimea throughout Russia's offensive but attacks on military installations there have recently intensified. Russian air strikes kill 4 in Ukraine; grain facilities damaged The above development comes as Russian air strikes on Monday killed four people in Ukraine and caused significant damage to infrastructure at the Black Sea port of Odesa and to grain storage facilities. Sharing a post on X, Ukraine's Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko said, "Another massive attack on Odesa. The attack resulted in the destruction of grain storage facilities and significant damage to the seaport." According to a report by the news agency Reuters early Tuesday, Odesa region Governor Oleh Kiper said the facilities that were hit contained almost 1,000 tonnes of grain and that the bodies of two men were found under the rubble of a warehouse. Separately, Ukrainian officials said that two more people were killed in a separate air strike on the town of Beryslav in the southern Kherson region. Air attacks intensified Monday's air strikes were part of a campaign that has made it harder for major grain producer Ukraine to export its products since Moscow quit a deal in mid-July. Reuters reported that the strikes have intensified as Ukraine presses on with a counteroffensive in the south and east that has made slow gains. However, the counteroffensive can see a boost as President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that the United States delivered Abrams tanks to Ukraine. "Abrams are already in Ukraine and are preparing to reinforce our brigades," Zelensky said in a post on social media. He did not elaborate on how many tanks arrived or how much time would be required to deploy them to the front line. The announcement came just after Ukraine claimed it had killed the commander of Russia's Black Sea fleet in a missile strike on Moscow's naval headquarters in Crimea last week in what would be a major embarrassment for Russia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine war: Russia shoots down missile over Crimea; 4 Ukrainians killed in air strikes

<p>As the Ukraine war stretches beyond 580 days, the world watches with bated breath, with tensions mounting along the frontlines. Since its inception in February 2022, this conflict has not only transformed the geopolitical landscape but has also left a significant imprint on the global economic order. So, what's the true human cost of this protracted war? Let's examine the numbers:</p>

<p>February 2022...Russia initiated its military operation on Ukrainian soil, setting the stage for a prolonged and devastating conflict. Ukraine, despite not being inducted into NATO, garnered support from the U.S. and its allies. The subsequent economic sanctions have dealt a heavy blow to Russia. However, the economic implications extend far beyond the involved countries and their allies.</p>

<p>A globally interconnected supply chain means that everyone in the world has felt the pain of this war.</p>

<p>Developing countries like Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and others have borne a heavy burden. The World Bank's projection as of March 2023 is grim, suggesting that the Ukraine conflict could impose a hefty annual burden of $70 billion. This daunting figure is a result of surging food and energy prices, sluggish economic growth, and disruptions in trade and investment.</p>

<p>Advanced economies are not immune to the repercussions. The U.S. is facing substantial losses, with estimates suggesting it could cost Uncle Sam $1.5 trillion over the next decade. The Eurozone is expected to face losses exceeding $1 trillion during this time, and the German economy, currently in recession, is poised to bear the brunt.</p>

<p>But the economic losses faced by these countries pale in comparison to what Ukraine endures.</p>

<p>The Kyiv School of Economics estimated in March 2023 that the direct economic losses to Ukraine from the war could reach a staggering $500 billion. This surpasses Ukraine's pre-war GDP of $350 billion. Beyond the economic toll, the Ukraine war has spawned a significant humanitarian crisis. Millions of Ukrainians have been forcibly displaced, their lives upended by violence and uncertainty. Tragically, thousands have lost their lives in the conflict. Moreover, the war's disruption of global food supplies looms as a potential precursor to a hunger crisis in various parts of the world.</p>

<p>Despite the humanitarian crisis and the cost of war, Russia remains undeterred.</p>

<p>Bloomberg Economics estimated in March 2023 that Russia had lost $350 billion in economic output since the start of the war, due to a combination of sanctions and the war effort itself. The Center for Strategic and International Studies estimated that the cost of the war to Russia could reach a staggering $7 trillion over the next decade.</p>

<p>While these estimates provide a stark picture of the economic and humanitarian costs, it's crucial to recognise that they remain preliminary. The full extent of the war's impact is yet to unfold, underscoring the urgency of concerted international efforts to address both the immediate crisis and its long-term aftermath.</p>

<p>As the world watches and hopes for a resolution to the conflict, it's clear that the ramifications of the Russia-Ukraine war reverberate far beyond the borders of the nations directly involved.</p>

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As the Ukraine war stretches beyond 580 days, the world watches with bated breath, with tensions mounting along the frontlines. Since its inception in February 2022, this conflict has not only transformed the geopolitical landscape but has also left a significant imprint on the global economic order.

As the Ukraine war stretches beyond 580 days, the world watches with bated breath, with tensions mounting along the frontlines. Since its inception in February 2022, this conflict has not only transformed the geopolitical landscape but has also left a significant imprint on the global economic order. So, what's the true human cost of this protracted war? Let's examine the numbers: February 2022...Russia initiated its military operation on Ukrainian soil, setting the stage for a prolonged and devastating conflict. Ukraine, despite not being inducted into NATO, garnered support from the U.S. and its allies. The subsequent economic sanctions have dealt a heavy blow to Russia. However, the economic implications extend far beyond the involved countries and their allies. A globally interconnected supply chain means that everyone in the world has felt the pain of this war. Developing countries like Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and others have borne a heavy burden. The World Bank's projection as of March 2023 is grim, suggesting that the Ukraine conflict could impose a hefty annual burden of $70 billion. This daunting figure is a result of surging food and energy prices, sluggish economic growth, and disruptions in trade and investment. Advanced economies are not immune to the repercussions. The U.S. is facing substantial losses, with estimates suggesting it could cost Uncle Sam $1.5 trillion over the next decade. The Eurozone is expected to face losses exceeding $1 trillion during this time, and the German economy, currently in recession, is poised to bear the brunt. But the economic losses faced by these countries pale in comparison to what Ukraine endures. The Kyiv School of Economics estimated in March 2023 that the direct economic losses to Ukraine from the war could reach a staggering $500 billion. This surpasses Ukraine's pre-war GDP of $350 billion. Beyond the economic toll, the Ukraine war has spawned a significant humanitarian crisis. Millions of Ukrainians have been forcibly displaced, their lives upended by violence and uncertainty. Tragically, thousands have lost their lives in the conflict. Moreover, the war's disruption of global food supplies looms as a potential precursor to a hunger crisis in various parts of the world. Despite the humanitarian crisis and the cost of war, Russia remains undeterred. Bloomberg Economics estimated in March 2023 that Russia had lost $350 billion in economic output since the start of the war, due to a combination of sanctions and the war effort itself. The Center for Strategic and International Studies estimated that the cost of the war to Russia could reach a staggering $7 trillion over the next decade. While these estimates provide a stark picture of the economic and humanitarian costs, it's crucial to recognise that they remain preliminary. The full extent of the war's impact is yet to unfold, underscoring the urgency of concerted international efforts to address both the immediate crisis and its long-term aftermath. As the world watches and hopes for a resolution to the conflict, it's clear that the ramifications of the Russia-Ukraine war reverberate far beyond the borders of the nations directly involved. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

News in numbers: The human & economic cost of the Ukraine war

<p>Ukraine claimed on Monday (September 25) that Russia launched a major aerial attack on southern Ukraine overnight, hitting Odesa port and destroying grain stores.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian Defence Forces of the South of the nation said on the messaging platform Telegram that Russia "attacked the south of the country again".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Odesa region governor Oleh Kiper&nbsp;said that the facilities that were hit had contained almost 1,000 tonnes&nbsp;of grain and that the bodies of two men were found under the rubble.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-russia-intentionally-starve-ukraine-new-war-crime-dossier-to-the-icc-to-provide-damning-evidence-639290">Did Russia intentionally starve Ukraine? New war crime dossier to the ICC to provide damning evidence</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The south command of Ukraine's armed forces said that the "seaport in Odesa suffered significant damage, a fire broke out in the port's hotel, which has not been functioning for several years".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Firefighters promptly eliminated it," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇷🇺<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> bombed the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kempinski?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kempinski</a> Hotel in Port City of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Odesa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Odesa</a><br />
south 🇺🇦<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://t.co/gSq3D91so3">pic.twitter.com/gSq3D91so3</a></p>
— C4H10FO2P ☠️ (@markito0171) <a href="https://twitter.com/markito0171/status/1706091913080627624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This night.<br />
Odesa.<br />
RuZZia attacked with 19 Shahed drones, 2 supersonic rockets &amp; 12 cruise missiles..<br />
Part of port &amp; tourist infrastructure hit &amp; destroyed.<br />
More airdefense capabilities R crutical. Counting on prompt partner support.<br />
But main thing - monster RU has 2Bstopped! <a href="https://t.co/WkSmZBPgdl">pic.twitter.com/WkSmZBPgdl</a></p>
— Ivanna Klympush (@IKlympush) <a href="https://twitter.com/IKlympush/status/1706201872153899088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/satellite-images-hint-at-expansion-of-nuclear-test-sites-in-us-russia-and-china-report-639168">Satellite images hint at expansion of nuclear test sites in US, Russia and China: Report</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Ukraine also claims that Moscow has increased such attacks on major Ukrainian ports and grain facilities since Russia quit a deal that enabled Ukraine to export grain via the Black Sea safely.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nataliya Gumenyuk, who is the spokeswoman for the Ukrainian Southern military command, said on Telegram that Russia was apparently "trying to test out the density of the air defence".</p>

<p>"They understand that port infrastructure is a priority for our region, and that it is reliably protected. However, that is why the attack that occurred tonight was both massive and by combined means," she added.&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>Use of supersonic and cruise missiles</strong></h2>

<p>The Defence Forces of the South of Ukraine claimed Russia launched a total of 19 drones and besides that, it directed two Onyx supersonic missiles and fired 12 Kalibr cruise missiles at Odesa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kalibrs were launched from a ship and a submarine, the Ukrainian air force claimed, further adding that all 19 Shaheds and 11 Kalibrs were shot down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The southern defence forces said that Russia "hit the port infrastructure" in Odesa, which "suffered significant damage".&nbsp;</p>

<p>They added that "Onyx missiles destroyed granaries. But people were not hurt".&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></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukraine claimed on Monday (September 25) that Russia launched a major aerial attack on southern Ukraine overnight, hitting Odesa port and destroying grain stores.

Ukraine claimed on Monday (September 25) that Russia launched a major aerial attack on southern Ukraine overnight, hitting Odesa port and destroying grain stores. Ukrainian Defence Forces of the South of the nation said on the messaging platform Telegram that Russia "attacked the south of the country again". The Odesa region governor Oleh Kiper said that the facilities that were hit had contained almost 1,000 tonnes of grain and that the bodies of two men were found under the rubble. Also read: Did Russia intentionally starve Ukraine? New war crime dossier to the ICC to provide damning evidence The south command of Ukraine's armed forces said that the "seaport in Odesa suffered significant damage, a fire broke out in the port's hotel, which has not been functioning for several years". "Firefighters promptly eliminated it," it added. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. 🇷🇺#Russia bombed the #Kempinski Hotel in Port City of #Odesa south 🇺🇦#Ukraine pic.twitter.com/gSq3D91so3 — C4H10FO2P ☠️ (@markito0171) September 24, 2023 × This night. Odesa. RuZZia attacked with 19 Shahed drones, 2 supersonic rockets & 12 cruise missiles.. Part of port & tourist infrastructure hit & destroyed. More airdefense capabilities R crutical. Counting on prompt partner support. But main thing - monster RU has 2Bstopped! pic.twitter.com/WkSmZBPgdl — Ivanna Klympush (@IKlympush) September 25, 2023 × Also read: Satellite images hint at expansion of nuclear test sites in US, Russia and China: Report Ukraine also claims that Moscow has increased such attacks on major Ukrainian ports and grain facilities since Russia quit a deal that enabled Ukraine to export grain via the Black Sea safely. Nataliya Gumenyuk, who is the spokeswoman for the Ukrainian Southern military command, said on Telegram that Russia was apparently "trying to test out the density of the air defence". "They understand that port infrastructure is a priority for our region, and that it is reliably protected. However, that is why the attack that occurred tonight was both massive and by combined means," she added. × Use of supersonic and cruise missiles The Defence Forces of the South of Ukraine claimed Russia launched a total of 19 drones and besides that, it directed two Onyx supersonic missiles and fired 12 Kalibr cruise missiles at Odesa. The Kalibrs were launched from a ship and a submarine, the Ukrainian air force claimed, further adding that all 19 Shaheds and 11 Kalibrs were shot down. The southern defence forces said that Russia "hit the port infrastructure" in Odesa, which "suffered significant damage". They added that "Onyx missiles destroyed granaries. But people were not hurt". Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Major Russian attack on Odesa port kills two, damages port, Ukraine claims

<p>Social media is buzzing with a viral video where Canadians are seen protesting outside the Toronto hotel hosting a meeting between Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky with banners and loudspeakers.&nbsp;Zelensky made his inaugural visit to Canada, a close ally, on Friday (September 22). The Ukrainian president might have anticipated a far more hospitable reception compared to the US, where he is facing backlash from some US politicians regarding increased military aid.</p>

<p>But the scenes in Canada were not so great either, rather they saw a vociferous vocal public protest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As both leaders exited the Royal York Hotel to leave the venue in the waiting convoy, a vocal crowd was seen passionately expressing their sentiments, shouting "go home" in what seemed to be a pointed message directed at the Ukrainian President.<br />
<br />
The sloganeering and hollering continued throughout the time Zelensky and Trudeau exited the hotel, sat in their respective vehicles&nbsp;amid tight security cover and left.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-extortion-to-buying-fancy-yachts-this-is-how-khalistanis-funded-and-flourished-639044">Khalistanis invested extortion, smuggling funds in yachts, clubs &amp; flourished</a></p>

<p>The video is seemingly recorded by an onlooker in the crowd.</p>

<p>In the background, many were busy capturing videos of the leaders as they made their way to the convoy. Many other voices from the crowd could be heard raising questions about Zelensky's presence in Canada.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-the-five-eyes-intelligence-alliance-and-how-does-it-support-canadas-claim-in-nijjar-killing-639080">What is 'Five Eyes' alliance? How it led to Canada's claim on Nijjar killing?</a></p>

<p>The video also showed a noticeable security presence around the leaders as they rushed into their respective vehicles.</p>

<h2><strong>Protesters with banners</strong></h2>

<p>A significant number of protesters within the crowd displayed banners and posters, some of which carried strong messages critical of Trudeau.</p>

<p>Phrases like "Trudeau for Treason," and "F*** Trudeau" were seen written on these banners. Those chastising both Trudeau and Zelensky used loudspeakers to amplify their voices, even using expletives.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">TORONTO: Trudeau and Zelensky leave Royal York Hotel as an even bigger crowd of protesters shout “F**K YOU” “GET OUT OF OUR COUNTRY”<br />
<br />
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥<br />
<a href="https://t.co/iwiYU8wkJT">pic.twitter.com/iwiYU8wkJT</a></p>
— Kat Kanada (@KatKanada_TM) <a href="https://twitter.com/KatKanada_TM/status/1705401471842623567?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The vocal disapproval continued throughout the time Zelensky and Trudeau exited the hotel, sat in their vehicle, and left the area.</p>

<h2><strong>Criticism over aid to Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>The protesters also voiced their criticism towards Trudeau for providing substantial aid to Ukraine in its struggle against the Russian invasion.</p>

<p>During Zelensky's visit, the Canadian government announced a commitment of $650 million in aid for Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-restricts-diesel-exports-639105">Russia restricts diesel exports</a></strong></p>

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<p>"A new investment of $650 million over three years to supply Ukraine with 50 armoured vehicles, including armoured medical evacuation vehicles, built by Canadian workers in London, Ontario," stated a Canadian government press release.</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky acknowledges Canadian support</strong></h2>

<p>During his visit to the Canadian parliament, Zelensky expressed gratitude for Canada's consistent support since the outbreak of the war. “Thank you for your support. You’ve been with us from the first days of the full-scale war,” he said, while also expressing hope for continued support until victory is achieved.</p>

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Social media is buzzing with a viral video where Canadians are seen protesting outside the Toronto hotel hosting a meeting between Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky with banners and loudspeakers.

Social media is buzzing with a viral video where Canadians are seen protesting outside the Toronto hotel hosting a meeting between Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky with banners and loudspeakers. Zelensky made his inaugural visit to Canada, a close ally, on Friday (September 22). The Ukrainian president might have anticipated a far more hospitable reception compared to the US, where he is facing backlash from some US politicians regarding increased military aid. But the scenes in Canada were not so great either, rather they saw a vociferous vocal public protest. As both leaders exited the Royal York Hotel to leave the venue in the waiting convoy, a vocal crowd was seen passionately expressing their sentiments, shouting "go home" in what seemed to be a pointed message directed at the Ukrainian President. The sloganeering and hollering continued throughout the time Zelensky and Trudeau exited the hotel, sat in their respective vehicles amid tight security cover and left. Also Read | Khalistanis invested extortion, smuggling funds in yachts, clubs & flourished The video is seemingly recorded by an onlooker in the crowd. In the background, many were busy capturing videos of the leaders as they made their way to the convoy. Many other voices from the crowd could be heard raising questions about Zelensky's presence in Canada. Also Read | What is 'Five Eyes' alliance? How it led to Canada's claim on Nijjar killing? The video also showed a noticeable security presence around the leaders as they rushed into their respective vehicles. Protesters with banners A significant number of protesters within the crowd displayed banners and posters, some of which carried strong messages critical of Trudeau. Phrases like "Trudeau for Treason," and "F*** Trudeau" were seen written on these banners. Those chastising both Trudeau and Zelensky used loudspeakers to amplify their voices, even using expletives. TORONTO: Trudeau and Zelensky leave Royal York Hotel as an even bigger crowd of protesters shout “F**K YOU” “GET OUT OF OUR COUNTRY” 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/iwiYU8wkJT — Kat Kanada (@KatKanada_TM) September 23, 2023 × The vocal disapproval continued throughout the time Zelensky and Trudeau exited the hotel, sat in their vehicle, and left the area. Criticism over aid to Ukraine The protesters also voiced their criticism towards Trudeau for providing substantial aid to Ukraine in its struggle against the Russian invasion. During Zelensky's visit, the Canadian government announced a commitment of $650 million in aid for Ukraine. Watch | Russia restricts diesel exports × "A new investment of $650 million over three years to supply Ukraine with 50 armoured vehicles, including armoured medical evacuation vehicles, built by Canadian workers in London, Ontario," stated a Canadian government press release. Zelensky acknowledges Canadian support During his visit to the Canadian parliament, Zelensky expressed gratitude for Canada's consistent support since the outbreak of the war. “Thank you for your support. You’ve been with us from the first days of the full-scale war,” he said, while also expressing hope for continued support until victory is achieved. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Viral video: Canadians holler Trudeau and Zelensky, protest $650 million aid to Ukraine

<p>The army of Ukraine crossed the Russian lines in southern Ukraine, said the general who is leading the counteroffensive while speaking to the US media this weekend amid the latest claims made by Ukraine that it is making progress in the Zaporizhzhia area.<br />
<br />
The counteroffensive was launched by Ukraine to take back territory from Russian forces in June.<br />
<br />
The progress of the Ukrainian army has been slower than expected because of the heavily mined territory, however, in recent weeks Kyiv reported making strategic advances in the Zaporizhzhia region.<br />
<br />
"On the left flank (near the village of Verbove) we have a breakthrough and we continue to advance further," said General Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, while speaking to CNN.<br />
<br />
He further acknowledged that the army's advance has been slower than what was hoped by Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-senior-leadership-among-dead-injured-in-ukraine-strike-on-black-sea-fleet-638887">Russian senior leadership among dead, injured in Black Sea fleet headquarters strike: Ukraine</a><br />
<br />
"Not as fast as it was expected, not like in the movies about the Second World War," he stated in the CNN interview.<br />
<br />
However, he stated that it is important "not to lose this initiative". A strategic victory was declared by Kyiv last month when it successfully recaptured the southern village of Robotyne.<br />
<br />
Tarnavskiy stated that the counteroffensive's major breakthrough will be when Kyiv recaptures the city of Tokmak, around 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the front line.</p>

<p>He added that retaking Tokmak would help Ukrainian forces in pushing towards occupied Melitopol and annexed Crimea.<br />
<br />
"I think it (a breakthrough) would happen after Tokmak," he stated, further warning, "At the moment (Russian forces) are relying on the depth of their defensive line there."<br />
<br />
Tarnavskiy then disagreed with a few predictions that the push by Ukraine could sloe down more in the coming months due to winter.<br />
<br />
"The weather can be a serious obstacle during the advance, but considering how we move forward, mostly without vehicles, I don't think (it) will heavily influence the counteroffensive," he stated.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's heavy artillery inflicting 'hell'</strong></h2>

<p>The heavy weapons, which were supplied by the West, in the battle taking place on the outskirts of Bakhmut, has led to a significant toll on Russia's lines, said Ukrainian commanders while speaking to Reuters.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Are Ukraine's allies abandoning Zelensky?</strong></p>

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<p>Unit commander Oleksandr said that the armed forces of Ukraine "very much rely" on heavy artillery, which includes the U.S.-made M109 self-propelled howitzer and the Polish-made Krab gun.<br />
<br />
"Even one gun can completely turn the situation around. An attack can be stopped with one such gun. The main thing is to aim where needed. They (the Russians) hate our hardware. That's what we gather from our intercepts. We hear that we keep giving them hell and they keep wondering how much ammunition we have left,” he said.</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</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The army of Ukraine crossed the Russian lines in southern Ukraine, said the general who is leading the counteroffensive while speaking to the US media this weekend amid the latest claims made by Ukraine that it is making progress in the Zaporizhzhia area.

The army of Ukraine crossed the Russian lines in southern Ukraine, said the general who is leading the counteroffensive while speaking to the US media this weekend amid the latest claims made by Ukraine that it is making progress in the Zaporizhzhia area. The counteroffensive was launched by Ukraine to take back territory from Russian forces in June. The progress of the Ukrainian army has been slower than expected because of the heavily mined territory, however, in recent weeks Kyiv reported making strategic advances in the Zaporizhzhia region. "On the left flank (near the village of Verbove) we have a breakthrough and we continue to advance further," said General Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, while speaking to CNN. He further acknowledged that the army's advance has been slower than what was hoped by Ukraine. ALSO READ | Russian senior leadership among dead, injured in Black Sea fleet headquarters strike: Ukraine "Not as fast as it was expected, not like in the movies about the Second World War," he stated in the CNN interview. However, he stated that it is important "not to lose this initiative". A strategic victory was declared by Kyiv last month when it successfully recaptured the southern village of Robotyne. Tarnavskiy stated that the counteroffensive's major breakthrough will be when Kyiv recaptures the city of Tokmak, around 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the front line. He added that retaking Tokmak would help Ukrainian forces in pushing towards occupied Melitopol and annexed Crimea. "I think it (a breakthrough) would happen after Tokmak," he stated, further warning, "At the moment (Russian forces) are relying on the depth of their defensive line there." Tarnavskiy then disagreed with a few predictions that the push by Ukraine could sloe down more in the coming months due to winter. "The weather can be a serious obstacle during the advance, but considering how we move forward, mostly without vehicles, I don't think (it) will heavily influence the counteroffensive," he stated. Ukraine's heavy artillery inflicting 'hell' The heavy weapons, which were supplied by the West, in the battle taking place on the outskirts of Bakhmut, has led to a significant toll on Russia's lines, said Ukrainian commanders while speaking to Reuters. WATCH | Are Ukraine's allies abandoning Zelensky? Unit commander Oleksandr said that the armed forces of Ukraine "very much rely" on heavy artillery, which includes the U.S.-made M109 self-propelled howitzer and the Polish-made Krab gun. "Even one gun can completely turn the situation around. An attack can be stopped with one such gun. The main thing is to aim where needed. They (the Russians) hate our hardware. That's what we gather from our intercepts. We hear that we keep giving them hell and they keep wondering how much ammunition we have left,” he said. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukrainian army breaks through Russian lines in south, claims general

<p>A day after Polish Prime Minister&nbsp;Mateusz Morawiecki said his country would no longer arm Ukraine in the war against Russia, President&nbsp;Andrzej Duda has claimed the PM's words had been misinterpreted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Duda talking to a Polish television channel said&nbsp;Morawiecki's "words were interpreted in the worst way possible...In my opinion, the prime minister meant that we won't be transferring to Ukraine the new weaponry that we're currently buying as we modernise the Polish army."</p>

<p>"As we receive the new weaponry from the US and South Korea, we will be releasing the weaponry currently used by the Polish army. Perhaps we will transfer it to Ukraine," Duda added.</p>

<p>On Wednesday (September 20), the Polish PM, surprising many, said Warsaw would no longer arm Ukraine and instead focus on its own defence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are no longer transferring weapons to Ukraine because we are now arming Poland with more modern weapons," said&nbsp;Morawiecki when quizzed&nbsp;if his country would continue to back Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-no-longer-arming-war-torn-ukraine-amid-grain-deal-row-638229"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Poland no longer arming war-torn Ukraine amid grain deal row</strong></a></p>

<p>Ever since Russia invaded Ukraine last year, Poland has been one of the biggest allies of Ukraine, supplying much of the weapons to the war-hit nation. Much of the weaponry that the United States and other countries send to Ukraine, passes through Poland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, Warsaw has given shelter to some one million Ukrainian refugees,&nbsp;who have benefited from various kinds of state aid.</p>

<h2><strong>Why the rise in tensions?</strong></h2>

<p>However, tensions have risen between the two sides after the Polish side imposed a ban on Ukrainian grain imports to protect its own farmers, despite the UN suggesting otherwise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ban by the Polish side riled up&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky who criticised the allies saying some countries were&nbsp;only pretending to support his nation as it wages a counteroffensive to retake land taken by Russia.</p>

<p>Notably, apart from Poland, Slovakia and Hungary also announced curbs on grain imports from Ukraine last Friday.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/poland-fumes-over-ukrainian-presidents-volodymyr-zelenskys-un-speech-638068"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Poland fumes over Ukrainian president's Volodymyr Zelensky's UN speech</strong></a></p>

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<p>French&nbsp;Foreign Minister&nbsp;Catherina Colonna commenting on the breakdown in ties between the two allies said Poland's&nbsp;decision to ban Ukraine's grain was unjustified. She cited a&nbsp;EU study and said Ukrainian grain imports would not disrupt or cripple the market of European farmers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There is no market upheaval and there are perhaps internal political considerations on the part of some of our partners which, unfortunately, pushes them to have this position that nothing justifies," said&nbsp;Colonna.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the general election taking place next month in Poland, and the grain issue remaining a particularly sensitive topic, it doesn't come as a surprise that Morawiecki has taken a provocative stance.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A day after Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said his country would no longer arm Ukraine in the war against Russia, President Andrzej Duda has claimed the PM's words had been misinterpreted.

A day after Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said his country would no longer arm Ukraine in the war against Russia, President Andrzej Duda has claimed the PM's words had been misinterpreted. Duda talking to a Polish television channel said Morawiecki's "words were interpreted in the worst way possible...In my opinion, the prime minister meant that we won't be transferring to Ukraine the new weaponry that we're currently buying as we modernise the Polish army." "As we receive the new weaponry from the US and South Korea, we will be releasing the weaponry currently used by the Polish army. Perhaps we will transfer it to Ukraine," Duda added. On Wednesday (September 20), the Polish PM, surprising many, said Warsaw would no longer arm Ukraine and instead focus on its own defence. "We are no longer transferring weapons to Ukraine because we are now arming Poland with more modern weapons," said Morawiecki when quizzed if his country would continue to back Kyiv. Also read | Poland no longer arming war-torn Ukraine amid grain deal row Ever since Russia invaded Ukraine last year, Poland has been one of the biggest allies of Ukraine, supplying much of the weapons to the war-hit nation. Much of the weaponry that the United States and other countries send to Ukraine, passes through Poland. Additionally, Warsaw has given shelter to some one million Ukrainian refugees, who have benefited from various kinds of state aid. Why the rise in tensions? However, tensions have risen between the two sides after the Polish side imposed a ban on Ukrainian grain imports to protect its own farmers, despite the UN suggesting otherwise. The ban by the Polish side riled up Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky who criticised the allies saying some countries were only pretending to support his nation as it wages a counteroffensive to retake land taken by Russia. Notably, apart from Poland, Slovakia and Hungary also announced curbs on grain imports from Ukraine last Friday. Watch | Poland fumes over Ukrainian president's Volodymyr Zelensky's UN speech × French Foreign Minister Catherina Colonna commenting on the breakdown in ties between the two allies said Poland's decision to ban Ukraine's grain was unjustified. She cited a EU study and said Ukrainian grain imports would not disrupt or cripple the market of European farmers. "There is no market upheaval and there are perhaps internal political considerations on the part of some of our partners which, unfortunately, pushes them to have this position that nothing justifies," said Colonna. With the general election taking place next month in Poland, and the grain issue remaining a particularly sensitive topic, it doesn't come as a surprise that Morawiecki has taken a provocative stance. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Polish president says PM misinterpreted on 'no longer arming Ukraine' comments

<p>A Russian occupation official installed in annexed Crimea on Friday (September 22) said that the headquarters of Russia's Black Sea fleet have been hit by Ukrainian missile&nbsp;in the latest assault on the peninsula by Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The headquarters of the fleet has been hit in an enemy missile attack," said Mikhail Razvozhayev, governor of Sevastopol - the largest city of the peninsula - in a statement on social media.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇷🇺 Black Sea Fleet in 🇷🇺-occupied Crimea has been hit by Ukraine 🇺🇦.<br />
<br />
You know how bad it is?<br />
<br />
It is on fire and sinking:<br />
<br />
And it is on dry land.<br />
<br />
It’s a race to visit the Moskva. <a href="https://t.co/1r6qKLut5m">pic.twitter.com/1r6qKLut5m</a></p>
— Jason Jay Smart (@officejjsmart) <a href="https://twitter.com/officejjsmart/status/1705180126646763693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The governor of Sevastopol further warned that another Ukrainian aerial attack is likely to happen shortly. "Attention everyone! Another attack is possible. Please do not go to the city centre. Do not leave buildings. Everyone who is near the headquarters of the fleet -- at the sound of the siren, proceed to shelters," said Mikhail Razvozhayev on social media.</p>

<p>The Russian naval headquarters which was hit in the Ukrainian missile attack caught fire, confirmed the senior regional official.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-it-shot-19-ukrainian-drones-over-crimea-black-sea-638044">Russia claims it shot down 19 Ukrainian drones over Crimea, Black Sea</a></p>

<p>"Work continues to extinguish the fire at the fleet headquarters. Please remain calm. The situation is under control of the emergency services," said the region's governor Mikhail Razvozhayev on social media.</p>

<p>The governor of annexed peninsula Sergei Aksyonov further added that another cruise missile was downed by Russian air defence systems over the peninsula.</p>

<p>The Russian defence ministry confirmed that at least one serviceman went missing after&nbsp;the headquarters of Moscow's Black Sea fleet was hit by a Ukrainian missile in annexed Crimea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Earlier today the Kyiv regime launched a missile attack on the city of Sevastopol," said Moscow's defence ministry on Telegram. "One serviceman was not killed, but is missing," it said, updating its previous post on Telegram," it added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: At least 7 injured in Cherkasy after Russian attack</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Cyber attack on Crimea&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The peninsula further faced a cyber attack after its internet providers were attacked, said a proxy official from Crimea's Russian-backed administration on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Unprecedented cyberattack on Crimean internet providers. We are fixing internet outages on the peninsula. All services are working to eliminate the threat," stated Oleg Kryuchkov, an adviser to the Moscow-installed Crimea governor Sergei Aksyonov.</p>

<h2><strong>Friction&nbsp;between Ukraine, Europe inevitable:&nbsp;Kremlin</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the Kremlin on Friday stated that it was unavoidable to control the increasing tensions between Kyiv and its European allies as a dispute escalates between Poland and Ukraine which has been sparked by disagreements over grain exports.</p>

<p>"There are certain frictions between Warsaw and Kyiv. We predict that these frictions between Warsaw and Kyiv will increase. Friction between Kyiv and other European capitals will also grow over time. This is inevitable," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said while speaking to the reporters.</p>

<p><em><strong>More details to follow soon.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A Russian occupation official installed in annexed Crimea on Friday (September 22) said that the headquarters of Russia's Black Sea fleet have been hit by Ukrainian missile in the latest assault on the peninsula by Kyiv.

A Russian occupation official installed in annexed Crimea on Friday (September 22) said that the headquarters of Russia's Black Sea fleet have been hit by Ukrainian missile in the latest assault on the peninsula by Kyiv. "The headquarters of the fleet has been hit in an enemy missile attack," said Mikhail Razvozhayev, governor of Sevastopol - the largest city of the peninsula - in a statement on social media. 🇷🇺 Black Sea Fleet in 🇷🇺-occupied Crimea has been hit by Ukraine 🇺🇦. You know how bad it is? It is on fire and sinking: And it is on dry land. It’s a race to visit the Moskva. pic.twitter.com/1r6qKLut5m — Jason Jay Smart (@officejjsmart) September 22, 2023 × The governor of Sevastopol further warned that another Ukrainian aerial attack is likely to happen shortly. "Attention everyone! Another attack is possible. Please do not go to the city centre. Do not leave buildings. Everyone who is near the headquarters of the fleet -- at the sound of the siren, proceed to shelters," said Mikhail Razvozhayev on social media. The Russian naval headquarters which was hit in the Ukrainian missile attack caught fire, confirmed the senior regional official. ALSO READ | Russia claims it shot down 19 Ukrainian drones over Crimea, Black Sea "Work continues to extinguish the fire at the fleet headquarters. Please remain calm. The situation is under control of the emergency services," said the region's governor Mikhail Razvozhayev on social media. The governor of annexed peninsula Sergei Aksyonov further added that another cruise missile was downed by Russian air defence systems over the peninsula. The Russian defence ministry confirmed that at least one serviceman went missing after the headquarters of Moscow's Black Sea fleet was hit by a Ukrainian missile in annexed Crimea. "Earlier today the Kyiv regime launched a missile attack on the city of Sevastopol," said Moscow's defence ministry on Telegram. "One serviceman was not killed, but is missing," it said, updating its previous post on Telegram," it added. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: At least 7 injured in Cherkasy after Russian attack Cyber attack on Crimea The peninsula further faced a cyber attack after its internet providers were attacked, said a proxy official from Crimea's Russian-backed administration on Friday. "Unprecedented cyberattack on Crimean internet providers. We are fixing internet outages on the peninsula. All services are working to eliminate the threat," stated Oleg Kryuchkov, an adviser to the Moscow-installed Crimea governor Sergei Aksyonov. Friction between Ukraine, Europe inevitable: Kremlin Meanwhile, the Kremlin on Friday stated that it was unavoidable to control the increasing tensions between Kyiv and its European allies as a dispute escalates between Poland and Ukraine which has been sparked by disagreements over grain exports. "There are certain frictions between Warsaw and Kyiv. We predict that these frictions between Warsaw and Kyiv will increase. Friction between Kyiv and other European capitals will also grow over time. This is inevitable," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said while speaking to the reporters. More details to follow soon. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia's Black Sea fleet headquarters in Crimea hit by Ukrainian missile, says Russian official

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is on a visit to the United States looking to shore up support and secure additional funding for his war-torn nation, was apparently denied the request to address a joint session of the US Congress.</p>

<p>Speaking to the press, US House speaker Kevin McCarthy on Thursday revealed that "Zelensky asked for a joint session, we just didn't have time. He's already given a joint session."</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky in US</strong></h2>

<p>The Ukrainian President is currently in the US, looking to shore up international support. His visit features multiple stops — Congress, the Pentagon and finally a meeting with Joe Biden.</p>

<p>Reuters reports that while Biden and most congressional leaders still support aid to Ukraine, Republican sceptics are questioning whether Congress should support a fresh round of aid for Kyiv.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-no-longer-arming-war-torn-ukraine-amid-grain-deal-row-638229">Poland no longer arming war-torn Ukraine amid grain deal row</a></strong></p>

<p>Republicans in recent days have grown increasingly adamant and are pushing for the aid to be turned off, reports AFP.</p>

<p>This comes as, on Thursday, Poland announced that it will no longer arm Ukraine in a mounting row over grain exports. The nation, however, clarified that it would fulfil existing arms supply deals.</p>

<h2><strong>US aid and the Ukraine war</strong></h2>

<p>Throughout the more than a year long Russia-Ukraine war, the United States as per AFP has spearheaded Western support for war-torn Ukraine. To date, the Congress has approved more than $100 billion in aid for Ukraine. This includes $43 billion in arms and weaponry.</p>

<p>President Joe Biden has resolutely pledged to stand by Kyiv 'no matter what,' this, as per AFP, is being used in his re-election campaign as a proof of his global leadership.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-it-shot-19-ukrainian-drones-over-crimea-black-sea-638044">Russia claims it shot down 19 Ukrainian drones over Crimea, Black Sea</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking at the UN on Tuesday, Biden also warned against abandoning Ukraine and said: "Russia believes that the world will grow weary and allow it to brutalise Ukraine without consequence."</p>

<p>The Ukrainian leader last visited Washington in December to meet President Biden. During that visit, he&nbsp;also held a press conference at the White House and addressed a joint session of the US Congress.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is on a visit to the United States looking to shore up support and secure additional funding for his war-torn nation, was apparently denied the request to address a joint session of the US Congress.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is on a visit to the United States looking to shore up support and secure additional funding for his war-torn nation, was apparently denied the request to address a joint session of the US Congress. Speaking to the press, US House speaker Kevin McCarthy on Thursday revealed that "Zelensky asked for a joint session, we just didn't have time. He's already given a joint session." Zelensky in US The Ukrainian President is currently in the US, looking to shore up international support. His visit features multiple stops — Congress, the Pentagon and finally a meeting with Joe Biden. Reuters reports that while Biden and most congressional leaders still support aid to Ukraine, Republican sceptics are questioning whether Congress should support a fresh round of aid for Kyiv. Also read | Poland no longer arming war-torn Ukraine amid grain deal row Republicans in recent days have grown increasingly adamant and are pushing for the aid to be turned off, reports AFP. This comes as, on Thursday, Poland announced that it will no longer arm Ukraine in a mounting row over grain exports. The nation, however, clarified that it would fulfil existing arms supply deals. US aid and the Ukraine war Throughout the more than a year long Russia-Ukraine war, the United States as per AFP has spearheaded Western support for war-torn Ukraine. To date, the Congress has approved more than $100 billion in aid for Ukraine. This includes $43 billion in arms and weaponry. President Joe Biden has resolutely pledged to stand by Kyiv 'no matter what,' this, as per AFP, is being used in his re-election campaign as a proof of his global leadership. Also read | Russia claims it shot down 19 Ukrainian drones over Crimea, Black Sea Speaking at the UN on Tuesday, Biden also warned against abandoning Ukraine and said: "Russia believes that the world will grow weary and allow it to brutalise Ukraine without consequence." The Ukrainian leader last visited Washington in December to meet President Biden. During that visit, he also held a press conference at the White House and addressed a joint session of the US Congress. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine's Zelensky denied request to address joint session of US Congress

The United States has been trying to rally countries in Ukraine who supported the ongoing United Nations General Assembly while calling out Russia at the forum. Watch the video to know more.

Ukranian President visits Capitol Hill: Faces a more splintered GOP

King Charles is in France on a three-day state visit, this is his first visit to the European nation since ascending the throne. He met the French President Emmanuel Macron with whom he wishes to establish better relationship.

King Charles' III state visit to France to improve relations; Climate change, Ukraine War on agenda

<p>Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki has said that his government is no longer arming war-torn Ukraine as it is focusing on building up its stocks of weapons. Speaking to Polsat news on Wednesday (September 20), Prime Minister Morawiecki said, “We are no longer transferring any weapons to Ukraine because we are now arming ourselves with the most modern weapons.”</p>

<p>Since the beginning of the Russian offensive in Ukraine in February last year, Poland has been one of Ukraine’s staunchest allies. However, Warsaw and Kyiv have fallen out over Ukrainian grain exports after Warsaw extended a ban on them.</p>

<p>Morawiecki's remarks came after the Polish government summoned the Ukrainian ambassador to the foreign ministry to protest against comments made by President Volodymyr Zelensky following Poland's decision to extend the grain ban.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-defies-russian-threat-sets-off-grain-vessel-from-black-sea-port-637555">Ukraine defies Russian threat, sets off grain vessel from Black Sea port</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier, President Zelensky told the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) that his government was working to preserve land routes for grain exports. However, he said that the political theatre around grain imports was only helping Russia.</p>

<p>Apart from Poland, Slovakia and Hungary also announced curbs on grain imports from Ukraine last Friday. This comes after the European Commission decided not to extend a ban on sales in&nbsp;five EU states, including Romania and Bulgaria.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukraine's foreign ministry called for calm on the grain dispute. "We urge our Polish friends to put aside their emotions. The Ukrainian side has offered Poland a constructive path to resolve the grain issue," Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko said in a post on Facebook.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nikolenko added that Ukraine's ambassador explained Kyiv's position on the "unacceptability" of the Polish ban and suggested Kyiv's proposals "will become the basis for moving the dialogue into a constructive course."<br />
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Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki has said that his government is no longer arming war-torn Ukraine as it is focusing on building up its stocks of weapons.

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki has said that his government is no longer arming war-torn Ukraine as it is focusing on building up its stocks of weapons. Speaking to Polsat news on Wednesday (September 20), Prime Minister Morawiecki said, “We are no longer transferring any weapons to Ukraine because we are now arming ourselves with the most modern weapons.” Since the beginning of the Russian offensive in Ukraine in February last year, Poland has been one of Ukraine’s staunchest allies. However, Warsaw and Kyiv have fallen out over Ukrainian grain exports after Warsaw extended a ban on them. Morawiecki's remarks came after the Polish government summoned the Ukrainian ambassador to the foreign ministry to protest against comments made by President Volodymyr Zelensky following Poland's decision to extend the grain ban. Also read | Ukraine defies Russian threat, sets off grain vessel from Black Sea port Earlier, President Zelensky told the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) that his government was working to preserve land routes for grain exports. However, he said that the political theatre around grain imports was only helping Russia. Apart from Poland, Slovakia and Hungary also announced curbs on grain imports from Ukraine last Friday. This comes after the European Commission decided not to extend a ban on sales in five EU states, including Romania and Bulgaria. Meanwhile, Ukraine's foreign ministry called for calm on the grain dispute. "We urge our Polish friends to put aside their emotions. The Ukrainian side has offered Poland a constructive path to resolve the grain issue," Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko said in a post on Facebook. Nikolenko added that Ukraine's ambassador explained Kyiv's position on the "unacceptability" of the Polish ban and suggested Kyiv's proposals "will become the basis for moving the dialogue into a constructive course." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Poland no longer arming war-torn Ukraine amid grain deal row

<p>Referring to the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) chief Jens Stoltenberg issued a warning that the nations must prepare for a long war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an interview published on Sunday (September 17), Stoltenberg said that there would be no swift end to the Ukraine war, which started last year in February.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Stoltenberg said in an interview with Germany's Funke media group that "most wars last longer than expected when they first begin. Therefore we must prepare ourselves for a long war in Ukraine."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-defence-min-shows-bombers-and-missiles-to-kim-during-last-leg-of-trip-636492">Russia’s defence min shows bombers and missiles to Kim during last leg of trip</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>His warning comes amid Kyiv started a counteroffensive in June, pushing back against entrenched Russian positions in the south and east, but it has made only modest progress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In fact, the United Kingdom defence ministry claimed that Russia will most likely be able to assemble a significant stockpile of air-launched cruise missiles to use them to strike Ukrainian infrastructure over the coming winter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are all wishing for a quick peace. But at the same time, we must recognise: if President (Volodymyr) Zelensky and the Ukrainians stop fighting, their country will no longer exist," said Stoltenberg.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If President (Vladimir) Putin and Russia lay down their weapons, we will have peace."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>&nbsp;Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/north-koreas-kim-inspects-west-sanctioned-fighter-jet-plant-in-russian-far-east-636398">North Korea's Kim inspects West-sanctioned fighter jet plant in Russian Far East</a></strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Putin-Kim Summit | Russia-Ukraine war</strong></p>

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<p>While speaking about Ukraine's ambitions to join the NATO alliance, Stoltenberg said: "There is no doubt that Ukraine will eventually be in NATO."</p>

<p>Kyiv had "moved closer to NATO" at a summit of the alliance in July, he said, further adding that "when this war ends, we need security guarantees for Ukraine. Otherwise, history could repeat itself".&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the July summit in Vilnius, NATO leaders agreed that Ukraine could join the alliance once certain conditions are met, and US and German officials made it clear that these would include Kyiv carrying out reforms to protect democracy and the rule of law.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Referring to the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) chief Jens Stoltenberg issued a warning that the nations must prepare for a long war.

Referring to the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) chief Jens Stoltenberg issued a warning that the nations must prepare for a long war. In an interview published on Sunday (September 17), Stoltenberg said that there would be no swift end to the Ukraine war, which started last year in February. Stoltenberg said in an interview with Germany's Funke media group that "most wars last longer than expected when they first begin. Therefore we must prepare ourselves for a long war in Ukraine." Also read: Russia’s defence min shows bombers and missiles to Kim during last leg of trip His warning comes amid Kyiv started a counteroffensive in June, pushing back against entrenched Russian positions in the south and east, but it has made only modest progress. In fact, the United Kingdom defence ministry claimed that Russia will most likely be able to assemble a significant stockpile of air-launched cruise missiles to use them to strike Ukrainian infrastructure over the coming winter. "We are all wishing for a quick peace. But at the same time, we must recognise: if President (Volodymyr) Zelensky and the Ukrainians stop fighting, their country will no longer exist," said Stoltenberg. "If President (Vladimir) Putin and Russia lay down their weapons, we will have peace." Also read: North Korea's Kim inspects West-sanctioned fighter jet plant in Russian Far East Watch: Putin-Kim Summit | Russia-Ukraine war × While speaking about Ukraine's ambitions to join the NATO alliance, Stoltenberg said: "There is no doubt that Ukraine will eventually be in NATO." Kyiv had "moved closer to NATO" at a summit of the alliance in July, he said, further adding that "when this war ends, we need security guarantees for Ukraine. Otherwise, history could repeat itself". At the July summit in Vilnius, NATO leaders agreed that Ukraine could join the alliance once certain conditions are met, and US and German officials made it clear that these would include Kyiv carrying out reforms to protect democracy and the rule of law. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia vs Ukraine: NATO chief warns 'we must prepare for long war'

<p>Ukraine claimed on Sunday (September 17) that its forces had retaken Klishchiivka, a key town south of the key frontline city of Bakhmut. This comes amid Kyiv's ongoing counter-attack against Moscow's offensive against the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed the soldiers for recapturing Klishchiivka, which was captured by Russia in January.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky said, "Today I would like to particularly commend the soldiers who, step by step, are returning to Ukraine what belongs to it namely in the area of Bakhmut."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"80th Airborne Assault Brigade, 5th Separate Assault Brigade, glorious 95th, and Joint Assault Brigade of the National Police "Liut". Klishchiivka! Well done!" he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-nato-chief-warns-we-must-prepare-for-long-war-636854">Russia-Ukraine war: NATO chief warns 'we must prepare for long war'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>According to the Ukrainian military, the troops "achieved success" in the Klishchiivka district of the Donetsk region on the southern flank of Bakhmut and forced the enemy out of their positions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As Zelensky prepares his second wartime visit to Washington next week in a bid to rally support, he claimed that Kyiv was "preparing new defence solutions for Ukraine".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian president said that the "air defence and artillery are the priority", without providing details.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Klishchiivka&nbsp;was home to several hundred people before Moscow launched its offensive in February 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-to-face-off-at-international-court-of-justice-over-genocide-claims-636923">Russia, Ukraine to face off at International Court of Justice over genocide claims</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Klishchiivka. I thank our warriors for liberating our land.<br />
<br />
The 80th Air Assault, 5th Assault, and the renowned 95th Air Assault brigades, as well as the National Police's "Fury" Assault Brigade.<br />
<br />
I thank everyone who is standing strong from Kupiansk to the left bank of Kherson! <a href="https://t.co/ZkLakPhMOH">pic.twitter.com/ZkLakPhMOH</a></p>
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1703474879314407676?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ilya Yevlash, who is the spokesman for Ukrainian troops in the east, said that control over Klishchiivka could help the Ukrainian army encircle Bakhmut, captured by Russian forces in May after one of the war's longest and bloodiest battles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a televised statement, Yevlash said: "We have now gained a staging ground, which will in the future allow us to continue to develop offensive actions and liberate our land from the occupiers."&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></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukraine claimed on Sunday (September 17) that its forces had retaken Klishchiivka, a key town south of the key frontline city of Bakhmut. This comes amid Kyiv's ongoing counter-attack against Moscow's offensive against the country.

Ukraine claimed on Sunday (September 17) that its forces had retaken Klishchiivka, a key town south of the key frontline city of Bakhmut. This comes amid Kyiv's ongoing counter-attack against Moscow's offensive against the country. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed the soldiers for recapturing Klishchiivka, which was captured by Russia in January. Zelensky said, "Today I would like to particularly commend the soldiers who, step by step, are returning to Ukraine what belongs to it namely in the area of Bakhmut." "80th Airborne Assault Brigade, 5th Separate Assault Brigade, glorious 95th, and Joint Assault Brigade of the National Police "Liut". Klishchiivka! Well done!" he added. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: NATO chief warns 'we must prepare for long war' According to the Ukrainian military, the troops "achieved success" in the Klishchiivka district of the Donetsk region on the southern flank of Bakhmut and forced the enemy out of their positions. As Zelensky prepares his second wartime visit to Washington next week in a bid to rally support, he claimed that Kyiv was "preparing new defence solutions for Ukraine". The Ukrainian president said that the "air defence and artillery are the priority", without providing details. Klishchiivka was home to several hundred people before Moscow launched its offensive in February 2022. Also read: Russia, Ukraine to face off at International Court of Justice over genocide claims Klishchiivka. I thank our warriors for liberating our land. The 80th Air Assault, 5th Assault, and the renowned 95th Air Assault brigades, as well as the National Police's "Fury" Assault Brigade. I thank everyone who is standing strong from Kupiansk to the left bank of Kherson! pic.twitter.com/ZkLakPhMOH — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) September 17, 2023 × Watch: Putin-Kim Summit | Russia-Ukraine war × Ilya Yevlash, who is the spokesman for Ukrainian troops in the east, said that control over Klishchiivka could help the Ukrainian army encircle Bakhmut, captured by Russian forces in May after one of the war's longest and bloodiest battles. In a televised statement, Yevlash said: "We have now gained a staging ground, which will in the future allow us to continue to develop offensive actions and liberate our land from the occupiers." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zelensky praises soldiers as Ukraine claims control of key town on eastern front

<p>Former United States president Donald Trump said that he appreciated the recent comments by Russian President Vladimir Putin about him. In an interview with NBC, Trump said it meant "what I'm saying is right," referring to his stance on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, Putin called the legal proceedings against former Trump as a political witch hunt and said that the actions taken against him were politically driven persecution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by news agencies, Putin had said at an economic forum in the far eastern city of Vladivostok: "As for the persecution of Trump, for us, in the current environment, it's good because it shows the rottenness of the American system. It is a politically motivated persecution of one's competitor."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-believed-narayana-murthy-was-helping-rishi-sunak-to-become-uk-pm-reveals-new-book-636519">Boris Johnson 'believed' Narayana Murthy was helping Rishi Sunak to become UK PM, claims new book</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>This is not the first time, Russia has often spoken out in defence of the former US president, who is facing a series of charges linked to election interference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, during the interview, Trump responded: "I like that he said that because that means what I'm saying is right. I would get him into a room, I would get [Ukrainian President] Zelensky into a room and I would get a deal worked out."&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking about the war, which started last year in February, Trump said that he would resolve the war within 24 hours if re-elected president. He has repeatedly said that he could quickly end the war, but never revealed how.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-moscow-likely-boosting-capacity-for-winter-onslaught-says-uk-636574">Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow boosting its arsenal, capacity for winter onslaught, says UK</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;United Auto Workers Union launch strikes at three factories&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Trump said in the interview "if I tell you exactly, I lose all my bargaining chips. I mean, you can't really say exactly what you're going to do. But I would say certain things to Putin. I would say certain things to Zelensky".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Relations between Washington and Moscow, strained by a litany of issues under Putin, have hit new lows since the Kremlin launched large-scale hostilities in Ukraine last year.</p>

<p>Putin said he did not expect any change in the US foreign policy stance towards Russia regardless of "whoever will be elected president" next year. He accused Washington of stoking anti-Russian feelings among ordinary Americans.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Former United States president Donald Trump said that he appreciated the recent comments by Russian President Vladimir Putin about him. In an interview with NBC, Trump said it meant "what I'm saying is right," referring to his stance on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

Former United States president Donald Trump said that he appreciated the recent comments by Russian President Vladimir Putin about him. In an interview with NBC, Trump said it meant "what I'm saying is right," referring to his stance on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Recently, Putin called the legal proceedings against former Trump as a political witch hunt and said that the actions taken against him were politically driven persecution. As quoted by news agencies, Putin had said at an economic forum in the far eastern city of Vladivostok: "As for the persecution of Trump, for us, in the current environment, it's good because it shows the rottenness of the American system. It is a politically motivated persecution of one's competitor." Also read: Boris Johnson 'believed' Narayana Murthy was helping Rishi Sunak to become UK PM, claims new book This is not the first time, Russia has often spoken out in defence of the former US president, who is facing a series of charges linked to election interference. Now, during the interview, Trump responded: "I like that he said that because that means what I'm saying is right. I would get him into a room, I would get [Ukrainian President] Zelensky into a room and I would get a deal worked out." While speaking about the war, which started last year in February, Trump said that he would resolve the war within 24 hours if re-elected president. He has repeatedly said that he could quickly end the war, but never revealed how. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow boosting its arsenal, capacity for winter onslaught, says UK Watch: United Auto Workers Union launch strikes at three factories × Trump said in the interview "if I tell you exactly, I lose all my bargaining chips. I mean, you can't really say exactly what you're going to do. But I would say certain things to Putin. I would say certain things to Zelensky". Relations between Washington and Moscow, strained by a litany of issues under Putin, have hit new lows since the Kremlin launched large-scale hostilities in Ukraine last year. Putin said he did not expect any change in the US foreign policy stance towards Russia regardless of "whoever will be elected president" next year. He accused Washington of stoking anti-Russian feelings among ordinary Americans. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Donald Trump welcomes Vladimir Putin's praise, says 'I like that he said that'

<p>The United Kingdom defence ministry claimed on Saturday (September 16) that Russia will most likely be able to assemble a significant stockpile of air-launched cruise missiles to use them to strike Ukrainian infrastructure over the coming winter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest intelligence update by the ministry suggests that the air-launched cruise missiles (ALCMs), particularly the modern AS-23a KODIAK, were central to most of Russia's long-range strikes against Ukraine's national energy infrastructure between October 2022 and March 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-defence-min-shows-bombers-and-missiles-to-kim-during-last-leg-of-trip-636492">Russia’s defence min shows bombers and missiles to Kim during last leg of trip</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The defence intelligence added that Moscow uses strategic bomber aircraft to release these munitions from deep within Russian territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a post shared on X, the defence ministry said: "Open source reports suggest that since April 2023, ALCM expenditure rates have reduced, while Russian leaders have highlighted efforts to increase the rate of cruise missile production."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Russia is therefore likely able to generate a significant stockpile of ALCMs. There is a realistic possibility Russia will again focus these weapons against Ukrainian infrastructure targets over the winter," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>&nbsp;Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/north-koreas-kim-inspects-west-sanctioned-fighter-jet-plant-in-russian-far-east-636398">North Korea's Kim inspects West-sanctioned fighter jet plant in Russian Far East</a></strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Zelensky to visit the White House&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>the White House announced Friday (September 15) that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will pay his second wartime visit to Washington next week, in a bid to solidify the support of his country's crucial ally. The US has already shipped billions of dollars in aid to fight Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky will travel to the White House on Thursday for talks with President Joe Biden and also hold meetings at the US Congress, where elements of the rival Republican Party are hesitant as Biden seeks to push through a major new package for Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden's national security adviser Jake Sullivan said that the trip comes at a "critical time" as Ukraine wages a counteroffensive against Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US president will reaffirm "his commitment to continuing to lead the world in supporting Ukraine as it defends its independence, its sovereignty and its territorial integrity," Sullivan told reporters.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The United Kingdom defence ministry claimed on Saturday (September 16) that Russia will most likely be able to assemble a significant stockpile of air-launched cruise missiles to use them to strike Ukrainian infrastructure over the coming winter.

The United Kingdom defence ministry claimed on Saturday (September 16) that Russia will most likely be able to assemble a significant stockpile of air-launched cruise missiles to use them to strike Ukrainian infrastructure over the coming winter. The latest intelligence update by the ministry suggests that the air-launched cruise missiles (ALCMs), particularly the modern AS-23a KODIAK, were central to most of Russia's long-range strikes against Ukraine's national energy infrastructure between October 2022 and March 2023. Also read: Russia’s defence min shows bombers and missiles to Kim during last leg of trip The defence intelligence added that Moscow uses strategic bomber aircraft to release these munitions from deep within Russian territory. In a post shared on X, the defence ministry said: "Open source reports suggest that since April 2023, ALCM expenditure rates have reduced, while Russian leaders have highlighted efforts to increase the rate of cruise missile production." "Russia is therefore likely able to generate a significant stockpile of ALCMs. There is a realistic possibility Russia will again focus these weapons against Ukrainian infrastructure targets over the winter," it added. Also read: North Korea's Kim inspects West-sanctioned fighter jet plant in Russian Far East × Zelensky to visit the White House the White House announced Friday (September 15) that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will pay his second wartime visit to Washington next week, in a bid to solidify the support of his country's crucial ally. The US has already shipped billions of dollars in aid to fight Russia. Zelensky will travel to the White House on Thursday for talks with President Joe Biden and also hold meetings at the US Congress, where elements of the rival Republican Party are hesitant as Biden seeks to push through a major new package for Kyiv. Biden's national security adviser Jake Sullivan said that the trip comes at a "critical time" as Ukraine wages a counteroffensive against Russia. The US president will reaffirm "his commitment to continuing to lead the world in supporting Ukraine as it defends its independence, its sovereignty and its territorial integrity," Sullivan told reporters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow boosting its arsenal, capacity for winter onslaught, says UK

Blinded by a Russian mortar shell, Ukrainian veteran Ivan Soroka couldn't see his bride when she walked into his family home in a shoulderless white dress, a bouquet of white flowers in her right hand.

Blinded by a Russian shell, a Ukrainian soldier couldn’t see his wedding

<p>With war against Russia grinding on in its second year, Ukraine is planning a big rise in budget expenditure for defence. The government on Friday (September 15) approved a draft budget for the next year. The country is counting on continued Western financial support to cover the expected budget deficit.</p>

<p>The draft 2024 budget has pegged the deficit at 1.548 trillion hryvnias ($42 billion). This is about 20.4 per cent of the country's gross domestic product.</p>

<p>More than half of budget spending in the next year is planned for the defence sector in order to fund the war against Russia.</p>

<p>"The key focus of this draft is defence and security of our country," said Ukraine&nbsp;Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. "This amount (defence spending) is 113 billion hryvnias more than this year. There will be even more weapons and equipment. More drones, ammunition, missiles," he wrote on the Telegram messaging app.</p>

<p>Ukraine's finance ministry said that defence spending was more than 21 per cent of griss domestic product. The spending includes provision of 48.1 billion hryvnias for purchase of drones.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Drones have been widely used by both sides in the ongoing war.</p>

<p>The ministry also said that forecast for budget financing provides for reduction of the deficit to 20.4% of GDP from 27% in 2023.</p>

<p>Since the start of the war, Ukraine has received almost USD 62 billion in foreign aid from western countries. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Serhiy Marchenko said he was hoping for continued financial support from the West.</p>

<p>Public debt repayment is planned to be 606.5 billion hryvnias (USD 160 million) including 421.6 billion hryvnias (USD 110 million) to be spent on internal debt repayments and 184.9 billion hryvnias (USD 49 million) for external debt repayments.</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky may visit US Congress next week: Report</strong></h2>

<p>Reuters reported citing a US official and more media reports that Ukrainian President Volodymye Zelensky was expected to meet US President Joe Biden and visit US Congress next week.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-to-have-liberated-andriivka-village-near-bakhmut-evacuations-ordered-in-kherson-636276">Ukraine claims to have ‘liberated’ Andriivka village near Bakhmut; evacuations ordered in Kherson</a></strong></p>

<p>The Washington Post and Punchbowl News have reported that Zelensky's US visit is tentatively scheduled for Thursday next week (September 21). Wall Street Journal has reported that Zelensky may meet US lawmakers.</p>

<p>Reuters said that Zelensky is expected to fly to Washington after his trip to New York for United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).</p>

<p>The visit will come amid President Joe Biden's appeal to US lawmakers for additional USD 24 billion aid for Ukraine and other international needs.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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With war against Russia grinding on in its second year, Ukraine is planning a big rise in budget expenditure for defence. The government on Friday (September 15) approved a draft budget for the next year.

With war against Russia grinding on in its second year, Ukraine is planning a big rise in budget expenditure for defence. The government on Friday (September 15) approved a draft budget for the next year. The country is counting on continued Western financial support to cover the expected budget deficit. The draft 2024 budget has pegged the deficit at 1.548 trillion hryvnias ($42 billion). This is about 20.4 per cent of the country's gross domestic product. More than half of budget spending in the next year is planned for the defence sector in order to fund the war against Russia. "The key focus of this draft is defence and security of our country," said Ukraine Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. "This amount (defence spending) is 113 billion hryvnias more than this year. There will be even more weapons and equipment. More drones, ammunition, missiles," he wrote on the Telegram messaging app. Ukraine's finance ministry said that defence spending was more than 21 per cent of griss domestic product. The spending includes provision of 48.1 billion hryvnias for purchase of drones. Drones have been widely used by both sides in the ongoing war. The ministry also said that forecast for budget financing provides for reduction of the deficit to 20.4% of GDP from 27% in 2023. Since the start of the war, Ukraine has received almost USD 62 billion in foreign aid from western countries. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Serhiy Marchenko said he was hoping for continued financial support from the West. Public debt repayment is planned to be 606.5 billion hryvnias (USD 160 million) including 421.6 billion hryvnias (USD 110 million) to be spent on internal debt repayments and 184.9 billion hryvnias (USD 49 million) for external debt repayments. Zelensky may visit US Congress next week: Report Reuters reported citing a US official and more media reports that Ukrainian President Volodymye Zelensky was expected to meet US President Joe Biden and visit US Congress next week. Also Read | Ukraine claims to have ‘liberated’ Andriivka village near Bakhmut; evacuations ordered in Kherson The Washington Post and Punchbowl News have reported that Zelensky's US visit is tentatively scheduled for Thursday next week (September 21). Wall Street Journal has reported that Zelensky may meet US lawmakers. Reuters said that Zelensky is expected to fly to Washington after his trip to New York for United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The visit will come amid President Joe Biden's appeal to US lawmakers for additional USD 24 billion aid for Ukraine and other international needs. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine plans major increase in defence spending in draft budget 2024

<p>The Ukrainian army&nbsp;on Friday (September 15) announced that they have “liberated” the village of Andriivka near the key frontline town of Bakhmut, which was captured by Russia in May. This comes a day after Ukrainian authorities ordered civilians in the Kherson region to evacuate due to regular bombings by Moscow’s army.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian troops capture eastern village</strong></h2>

<p>The announcement of the recapture of the village of Andriivka was made by the General Staff of Ukraine’s armed forces during his morning report, saying that Russian forces also suffered “significant” casualties and equipment losses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In the direction of Bakhmut, the enemy does not stop trying to break through the defence of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the area of Bogdanivka,” said the General Staff, on Facebook.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In the course of the assault, they liberated Andriivka in Donetsk region, inflicted significant losses on the enemy in terms of manpower and equipment, and entrenched at the occupied frontiers,” it added, while also reporting “partial success” near Klishchiivka village, south of Bakhmut.</p>

<p>Andriivka is around 14 kilometres south of the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, which has seen some of the longest and bloodiest battles during the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The announcement also comes a day after Ukraine’s Deputy Defence Minister, Hanna Maliar reported that Andriivka had been brought under Ukrainian control but later backtracked on the saying that the fighting was still raging around the village.</p>

<p>Speaking about the progress on the southern front General Staff spokesman Andriy Kovaliov said its troops were inflicting substantial losses on the enemy near the village of Verbove in the Zaporizhzhia region.</p>

<h2><strong>Civilians in Kherson ordered to evacuate </strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian Governor Oleksandr Prokudin took to Telegram, on Thursday (Sep 14) and said, “The Kherson Regional Defence Council has decided to compulsorily evacuate families with children from areas under constant enemy fire.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian official indicated that Kherson’s regional authorities were preparing for “emergency situations” ahead of winter regarding electricity supplies. Last year, Russia allegedly carried out massive strikes against the war-torn country’s infrastructure which plunged civilians into the cold and dark during sub-zero conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russian submarine suffered ‘catastrophic damage’ after Ukrainian strike: UK</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence, on Friday (September 15) said that a Ukrainian strike on Sevastopol naval base earlier this week inflicted “catastrophic damage” to a Russian submarine and destroyed a landing ship.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the British MoD, the Ukrainian attack on Wednesday (September 13) on the Sevmorzavod shipyard hit landing ship Minsk and Kilo 636.3-class submarine Rostov-na-Donu as the vessels were undergoing maintenance in dry docks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Despite the Russian Ministry of Defence downplaying the damage to the vessels, open-source evidence indicates the Minsk has almost certainly been functionally destroyed, while the Rostov has likely suffered catastrophic damage,” said the British MoD.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The British defence officials also said that it would take hundreds of millions of dollars and many years to fix the submarine, not to mention the “realistic possibility that the complex task of removing the wreckage from the dry docks will place them out of use for many months.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
<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.</strong></em></p>

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The Ukrainian army on Friday (September 15) announced that they have “liberated” the village of Andriivka near the key frontline town of Bakhmut, which was captured by Russia in May.

The Ukrainian army on Friday (September 15) announced that they have “liberated” the village of Andriivka near the key frontline town of Bakhmut, which was captured by Russia in May. This comes a day after Ukrainian authorities ordered civilians in the Kherson region to evacuate due to regular bombings by Moscow’s army. Ukrainian troops capture eastern village The announcement of the recapture of the village of Andriivka was made by the General Staff of Ukraine’s armed forces during his morning report, saying that Russian forces also suffered “significant” casualties and equipment losses. “In the direction of Bakhmut, the enemy does not stop trying to break through the defence of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the area of Bogdanivka,” said the General Staff, on Facebook. “In the course of the assault, they liberated Andriivka in Donetsk region, inflicted significant losses on the enemy in terms of manpower and equipment, and entrenched at the occupied frontiers,” it added, while also reporting “partial success” near Klishchiivka village, south of Bakhmut. Andriivka is around 14 kilometres south of the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, which has seen some of the longest and bloodiest battles during the war. The announcement also comes a day after Ukraine’s Deputy Defence Minister, Hanna Maliar reported that Andriivka had been brought under Ukrainian control but later backtracked on the saying that the fighting was still raging around the village. Speaking about the progress on the southern front General Staff spokesman Andriy Kovaliov said its troops were inflicting substantial losses on the enemy near the village of Verbove in the Zaporizhzhia region. Civilians in Kherson ordered to evacuate Ukrainian Governor Oleksandr Prokudin took to Telegram, on Thursday (Sep 14) and said, “The Kherson Regional Defence Council has decided to compulsorily evacuate families with children from areas under constant enemy fire.” The Ukrainian official indicated that Kherson’s regional authorities were preparing for “emergency situations” ahead of winter regarding electricity supplies. Last year, Russia allegedly carried out massive strikes against the war-torn country’s infrastructure which plunged civilians into the cold and dark during sub-zero conditions. Russian submarine suffered ‘catastrophic damage’ after Ukrainian strike: UK The United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence, on Friday (September 15) said that a Ukrainian strike on Sevastopol naval base earlier this week inflicted “catastrophic damage” to a Russian submarine and destroyed a landing ship. According to the British MoD, the Ukrainian attack on Wednesday (September 13) on the Sevmorzavod shipyard hit landing ship Minsk and Kilo 636.3-class submarine Rostov-na-Donu as the vessels were undergoing maintenance in dry docks. “Despite the Russian Ministry of Defence downplaying the damage to the vessels, open-source evidence indicates the Minsk has almost certainly been functionally destroyed, while the Rostov has likely suffered catastrophic damage,” said the British MoD. The British defence officials also said that it would take hundreds of millions of dollars and many years to fix the submarine, not to mention the “realistic possibility that the complex task of removing the wreckage from the dry docks will place them out of use for many months.” (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine claims to have ‘liberated’ Andriivka village near Bakhmut; evacuations ordered in Kherson

'India and China have low IQ'. Ukrainian President's advisor is facing criticism The advisor rebuked India and China. Mykhailo Podolyak questioned the ‘intellectual potential’ of Indians and Chinese.

Zelensky's advisor draws fire after saying Indians & Chinese have 'weak intellectual potential'

"Well, we're watching this very, very closely. We'll see what the two sides say as a result of this. As I've said before, we continue to urge North Korea to meet its public commitments not to support Russia's war on Ukraine.

Kim and Putin meeting: White House says "We're watching this very, very closely "

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<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidsJBC7EgRAmsI" /><meta charset="utf-8" />The US National Air Guard said on Tuesday (September 12) that it could have the first Ukrainian pilots trained on F-16 fighter jets before the end of this year, though it would be longer than before they fly combat missions. The Ukrainian pilots are expected to arrive at Morris Air National Guard Base in Tucson by October. The US Air National Guard's director Lt.Gen Michael Loh said the pilots are being evaluated for their English language skills.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Depending on their proficiency (in the English language) and previous fighter jet experience, they could complete the training (on F-16s) within three months, Lt.Gen told the annual Air Force Association convention in National Harbor, Maryland. “As soon as they’re given a go-ahead, they’ll be coming over and they’ll start their training immediately,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Air National Guard's director also said that to meet the quick training timeframe, Tucson would likely shift some of its other international pilot training commitments to prioritise training Ukrainian pilots.</p>

<h2><strong>War-torn Ukraine seeking up to 50 F-16 fighter jets</strong></h2>

<p>Since the earliest days of the Russian offensive in February last year, Ukrainian leaders have asked for fighter jets from Western countries. However, for the first year and a half (into the war), the United States and other allied partners focused on providing other weapons systems, citing factors such as the cost of jets, difficulty in maintaining them, and the concerns about further provoking Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The F-16 jets are still in production, and because they are widely used by many international partners, there are plenty of spare parts. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press early Wednesday, Ukraine is seeking up to 50 F-16s or the equivalent of three fighter squadrons from coalition countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine was set to receive 42 of these jets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During Tuesday's convention in National Harbor, Air National Guard's director Lt.Gen Loh also said that the ongoing war in Ukraine has become a gruesome, slow-moving fight with ground tactics and trench warfare reminiscent of World War I, and for that, the F-16’s ability to suppress enemy air defences and conduct low-altitude attacks could help Kyiv.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The US National Air Guard said on Tuesday (September 12) that it could have the first Ukrainian pilots trained on F-16 fighter jets before the end of this year, though it would be longer than before they fly combat missions.

The US National Air Guard said on Tuesday (September 12) that it could have the first Ukrainian pilots trained on F-16 fighter jets before the end of this year, though it would be longer than before they fly combat missions. The Ukrainian pilots are expected to arrive at Morris Air National Guard Base in Tucson by October. The US Air National Guard's director Lt.Gen Michael Loh said the pilots are being evaluated for their English language skills. Depending on their proficiency (in the English language) and previous fighter jet experience, they could complete the training (on F-16s) within three months, Lt.Gen told the annual Air Force Association convention in National Harbor, Maryland. “As soon as they’re given a go-ahead, they’ll be coming over and they’ll start their training immediately,” he added. The Air National Guard's director also said that to meet the quick training timeframe, Tucson would likely shift some of its other international pilot training commitments to prioritise training Ukrainian pilots. War-torn Ukraine seeking up to 50 F-16 fighter jets Since the earliest days of the Russian offensive in February last year, Ukrainian leaders have asked for fighter jets from Western countries. However, for the first year and a half (into the war), the United States and other allied partners focused on providing other weapons systems, citing factors such as the cost of jets, difficulty in maintaining them, and the concerns about further provoking Russia. The F-16 jets are still in production, and because they are widely used by many international partners, there are plenty of spare parts. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press early Wednesday, Ukraine is seeking up to 50 F-16s or the equivalent of three fighter squadrons from coalition countries. Last month, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine was set to receive 42 of these jets. During Tuesday's convention in National Harbor, Air National Guard's director Lt.Gen Loh also said that the ongoing war in Ukraine has become a gruesome, slow-moving fight with ground tactics and trench warfare reminiscent of World War I, and for that, the F-16’s ability to suppress enemy air defences and conduct low-altitude attacks could help Kyiv. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukrainian pilots could be flying F-16s before end of 2023: US Air National Guard

<p>Ukrainian officials claimed on Wednesday (September 13) that a "massive" Russian drone attack earlier damaged infrastructure at Ukrainian grain-exporting ports on the Danube River.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov said the ports of Reni and Izmail had been struck in an attack that damaged warehouses used for grain cargoes, oil storage tanks and administrative buildings. The official said that the attack lasted for more than four hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv alleges that Moscow has increased such attacks on Ukrainian ports and grain facilities since Russia quit a deal that had enabled Ukraine to safely export grain via the Black Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-missile-attack-causes-fire-at-crimean-shipyard-damaging-2-ships-says-russia-635655">Ukraine missile attack causes fire at Crimean shipyard, damaging 2 ships, says Russia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"Another massive attack on the ports of the Danube Region," wrote Kubrakov, further adding that 105 port infrastructure facilities in Ukraine had been damaged and partially destroyed since the grain deal was suspended.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Kubrakov, Ukrainian exports to Asia, Africa and Europe had been reduced by almost three million tonnes per month as a result of the air strikes since July 18.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In recent times, the Danube has emerged as a vital export route since Ukraine's deep Black Sea ports were blocked. Kubrakov said that&nbsp;"despite the aggressor's attempts to reduce its (Ukraine's) export potential, the ports continue to operate. At the same time, every attack on the port infrastructure of Ukraine is an attack on the food security of the whole world."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Oleh Kiper, who is the governor of the Odesa region that includes the Danube River ports, had said earlier on Wednesday that "damage to the port and other civilian infrastructure was recorded" but gave few details.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/putin-expresses-faith-in-the-rouble-says-nothing-drastic-following-crash-635586">Putin expresses faith in the rouble, says ‘nothing drastic’ following crash</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;North Korea fires two ballistic missile ahead of Kim Jong Un-Vladimir Putin meet&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, Russian defence minister, Sergei Shoigu, said on Wednesday that that Moscow had no choice but to win. He said that his forces were maintaining "active defence" in the face of Ukraine's counteroffensive.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shoigu acknowledged during his remarks to a reporter for Rossiya-1 state TV that the situation on the front was difficult in places and the autumn campaign was now underway.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said: "The forces are maintaining active defence on the necessary, essential fronts. In some places, it’s harder, in others simpler. But I can say that the lads and the commander are performing confidently, and reliably defending what we need to defend at the moment – those places, obviously, where the Ukrainian armed forces are trying to break through."&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</strong><br />
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Ukrainian officials claimed on Wednesday (September 13) that a "massive" Russian drone attack earlier damaged infrastructure at Ukrainian grain-exporting ports on the Danube River.

Ukrainian officials claimed on Wednesday (September 13) that a "massive" Russian drone attack earlier damaged infrastructure at Ukrainian grain-exporting ports on the Danube River. Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov said the ports of Reni and Izmail had been struck in an attack that damaged warehouses used for grain cargoes, oil storage tanks and administrative buildings. The official said that the attack lasted for more than four hours. Kyiv alleges that Moscow has increased such attacks on Ukrainian ports and grain facilities since Russia quit a deal that had enabled Ukraine to safely export grain via the Black Sea. Also read: Ukraine missile attack causes fire at Crimean shipyard, damaging 2 ships, says Russia "Another massive attack on the ports of the Danube Region," wrote Kubrakov, further adding that 105 port infrastructure facilities in Ukraine had been damaged and partially destroyed since the grain deal was suspended. According to Kubrakov, Ukrainian exports to Asia, Africa and Europe had been reduced by almost three million tonnes per month as a result of the air strikes since July 18. In recent times, the Danube has emerged as a vital export route since Ukraine's deep Black Sea ports were blocked. Kubrakov said that "despite the aggressor's attempts to reduce its (Ukraine's) export potential, the ports continue to operate. At the same time, every attack on the port infrastructure of Ukraine is an attack on the food security of the whole world." Oleh Kiper, who is the governor of the Odesa region that includes the Danube River ports, had said earlier on Wednesday that "damage to the port and other civilian infrastructure was recorded" but gave few details. Also read: Putin expresses faith in the rouble, says ‘nothing drastic’ following crash Watch: North Korea fires two ballistic missile ahead of Kim Jong Un-Vladimir Putin meet × Meanwhile, Russian defence minister, Sergei Shoigu, said on Wednesday that that Moscow had no choice but to win. He said that his forces were maintaining "active defence" in the face of Ukraine's counteroffensive. Shoigu acknowledged during his remarks to a reporter for Rossiya-1 state TV that the situation on the front was difficult in places and the autumn campaign was now underway. He said: "The forces are maintaining active defence on the necessary, essential fronts. In some places, it’s harder, in others simpler. But I can say that the lads and the commander are performing confidently, and reliably defending what we need to defend at the moment – those places, obviously, where the Ukrainian armed forces are trying to break through." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia's 'massive' drone attacks damaged infra at ports of Danube region, claims Ukraine

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<p>British energy giant BP said Tuesday that its Chief Executive Bernard Looney has resigned "with immediate effect", after admitting he had not been "fully transparent" about historical relationships with colleagues.</p>

<p>"Bernard Looney has notified the company that he has resigned as chief executive officer with immediate effect," the company said in a statement, adding that finance chief Murray Auchincloss would act as interim CEO.</p>

<p>Looney, 53, is leaving after less than four years in the role, having seen the firm through a tumultuous period that included the Covid pandemic and the fallout from Russia's invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He had vowed to reposition BP as a leader in clean energy technologies, and gradually cut oil and gas production to reduce carbon emissions, but environmentalists have criticised the company for inaction in that regard during his tenure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His surprise departure follows an internal probe into his behaviour that has been supported by external legal counsel.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>'Obligated'</h2>

<p>BP said that in May last year, its board received and reviewed allegations from an anonymous source relating to Looney's conduct "in respect of personal relationships with company colleagues".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Looney disclosed "a small number of historical relationships with colleagues prior to becoming CEO" during the review, it added while noting that no breach of the company's code of conduct was found.</p>

<p>However, the board was given his assurances over his disclosures of past personal relationships, as well as his future behaviour, according to BP.</p>

<p>"Further allegations of a similar nature were received recently, and the company immediately began investigating with the support of external legal counsel," it said, adding that the process was continuing.</p>

<p>"Mr Looney has today informed the company that he now accepts that he was not fully transparent in his previous disclosures," BP added.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He did not provide details of all relationships and accepts he was obligated to make more complete disclosure."</p>

<p>BP said the board expects all staff to behave in accordance with the company's values.</p>

<p>"All leaders in particular are expected to act as role models and to exercise good judgement in a way that earns the trust of others," the company said.</p>

<h2>Record profits</h2>

<p>Looney, an Irish citizen, had been at BP since joining the British energy behemoth in 1991 and was appointed chief executive in early 2020.</p>

<p>The company said no decisions had yet been made regarding any remuneration payments.</p>

<p>Like many of its rivals, BP earlier this year unveiled record annual profits for 2022, thanks to soaring oil and gas prices following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>However, earnings have fallen from those heights somewhat so far this year, as energy prices retreated for much of 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/energy-firm-bps-profits-double-to-277-billion-559631"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Energy firm BP's profits double to $27.7 billion</strong></a></p>

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<p>Nonetheless, BP said in August it was hiking its dividend and returning $1.5 billion to shareholders by repurchasing stock.</p>

<p>Looney saw his pay packet nearly double last year, to around £10 million ($12 million), on the back of the bumper profits.</p>

<p>Auchincloss, who had been in the CFO post since mid-2020, will now be charged with heading BP while the search for a permanent successor is conducted.</p>

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British energy giant BP said Tuesday that its Chief Executive Bernard Looney has resigned "with immediate effect", after admitting he had not been "fully transparent" about historical relationships with colleagues.

British energy giant BP said Tuesday that its Chief Executive Bernard Looney has resigned "with immediate effect", after admitting he had not been "fully transparent" about historical relationships with colleagues. "Bernard Looney has notified the company that he has resigned as chief executive officer with immediate effect," the company said in a statement, adding that finance chief Murray Auchincloss would act as interim CEO. Looney, 53, is leaving after less than four years in the role, having seen the firm through a tumultuous period that included the Covid pandemic and the fallout from Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He had vowed to reposition BP as a leader in clean energy technologies, and gradually cut oil and gas production to reduce carbon emissions, but environmentalists have criticised the company for inaction in that regard during his tenure. His surprise departure follows an internal probe into his behaviour that has been supported by external legal counsel. 'Obligated' BP said that in May last year, its board received and reviewed allegations from an anonymous source relating to Looney's conduct "in respect of personal relationships with company colleagues". Looney disclosed "a small number of historical relationships with colleagues prior to becoming CEO" during the review, it added while noting that no breach of the company's code of conduct was found. However, the board was given his assurances over his disclosures of past personal relationships, as well as his future behaviour, according to BP. "Further allegations of a similar nature were received recently, and the company immediately began investigating with the support of external legal counsel," it said, adding that the process was continuing. "Mr Looney has today informed the company that he now accepts that he was not fully transparent in his previous disclosures," BP added. "He did not provide details of all relationships and accepts he was obligated to make more complete disclosure." BP said the board expects all staff to behave in accordance with the company's values. "All leaders in particular are expected to act as role models and to exercise good judgement in a way that earns the trust of others," the company said. Record profits Looney, an Irish citizen, had been at BP since joining the British energy behemoth in 1991 and was appointed chief executive in early 2020. The company said no decisions had yet been made regarding any remuneration payments. Like many of its rivals, BP earlier this year unveiled record annual profits for 2022, thanks to soaring oil and gas prices following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. However, earnings have fallen from those heights somewhat so far this year, as energy prices retreated for much of 2023. Watch | Energy firm BP's profits double to $27.7 billion × Nonetheless, BP said in August it was hiking its dividend and returning $1.5 billion to shareholders by repurchasing stock. Looney saw his pay packet nearly double last year, to around £10 million ($12 million), on the back of the bumper profits. Auchincloss, who had been in the CFO post since mid-2020, will now be charged with heading BP while the search for a permanent successor is conducted. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

BP CEO Bernard Looney resigns after failing to disclose personal relationships with colleagues

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (September 12) slammed the West's plans of sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, stating that the move would only "prolong conflict".&nbsp;</p>

<p>At an economic forum in Russia's Far East, Putin said: "They are going to deliver F-16s. Will this change anything? I don't think so. It will just prolong the conflict."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US recently approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark and the Netherlands to defend against Russian invaders as soon as pilot training is completed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This came after Kyiv's consistent plea to provide the war-ravaged nation with F-16s to fend off Russia's aggression amid the ongoing war, which started last year on February 24.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-brands-trumps-legal-battles-as-political-witch-hunt-as-us-russia-tensions-escalate-635278">Putin calls Trump's legal battles a political witch hunt as US-Russia tensions escalate</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Previously, Russia has called for the supply of these advanced jets will lead to acceleration. In July, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that Moscow would regard Western F-16 fighter jets sent to Ukraine as a "nuclear" threat because of their capacity to carry atomic weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian president also denounced Washington for sending Kyiv controversial cluster munitions, which triggered criticism from Brussels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "Not long ago, the US administration believed that the use of cluster munitions is a war crime. Now, they themselves are supplying cluster munitions to combat areas in Ukraine."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cluster munitions have been controversial in terms of the Russia-Ukraine war as they can disperse up to several hundred small explosive charges, which can remain unexploded in the ground. Ukraine has relied on Western weaponry to launch and lead its counteroffensive against Russian forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/you-scratch-my-back-i-scratch-yours-whats-the-new-interdependent-kim-putin-dynamic-635224">You scratch my back, I scratch yours: What's the new interdependent Kim-Putin dynamic?</a>&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Kim Jong-un in Russia -&nbsp;Putin set to meet Kim in Russia's far east&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>At the economic forum, Putin also said that the Russian army has added over half a million people in the last year, including both drafted and volunteer fighters, to fight in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kremlin hasn't announced a second draft as the first wave of mobilisation last year triggered a wave of emigration. But Russia pursued a campaign to recruit volunteers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We had a partial mobilisation... We called up 300,000 people. Now, in the last six-seven months, 270,000 people have voluntarily signed contracts to serve in the Russian army," Putin said, further adding that the "process continues, with 1,000-1,500 people coming every day to sign contracts".&nbsp;</p>

<p>On being asked about whether Russia will introduce another mobilisation wave, he did not outright deny the possibility, but said that "our men, knowing what awaits them on the front, still go for this consciously and voluntarily to defend the motherland".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (September 12) slammed the West's plans of sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, stating that the move would only "prolong conflict".

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (September 12) slammed the West's plans of sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, stating that the move would only "prolong conflict". At an economic forum in Russia's Far East, Putin said: "They are going to deliver F-16s. Will this change anything? I don't think so. It will just prolong the conflict." The US recently approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark and the Netherlands to defend against Russian invaders as soon as pilot training is completed. This came after Kyiv's consistent plea to provide the war-ravaged nation with F-16s to fend off Russia's aggression amid the ongoing war, which started last year on February 24. Also read: Putin calls Trump's legal battles a political witch hunt as US-Russia tensions escalate Previously, Russia has called for the supply of these advanced jets will lead to acceleration. In July, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that Moscow would regard Western F-16 fighter jets sent to Ukraine as a "nuclear" threat because of their capacity to carry atomic weapons. The Russian president also denounced Washington for sending Kyiv controversial cluster munitions, which triggered criticism from Brussels. He said, "Not long ago, the US administration believed that the use of cluster munitions is a war crime. Now, they themselves are supplying cluster munitions to combat areas in Ukraine." Cluster munitions have been controversial in terms of the Russia-Ukraine war as they can disperse up to several hundred small explosive charges, which can remain unexploded in the ground. Ukraine has relied on Western weaponry to launch and lead its counteroffensive against Russian forces. Also read: You scratch my back, I scratch yours: What's the new interdependent Kim-Putin dynamic? Watch: Kim Jong-un in Russia - Putin set to meet Kim in Russia's far east × At the economic forum, Putin also said that the Russian army has added over half a million people in the last year, including both drafted and volunteer fighters, to fight in Ukraine. Kremlin hasn't announced a second draft as the first wave of mobilisation last year triggered a wave of emigration. But Russia pursued a campaign to recruit volunteers. "We had a partial mobilisation... We called up 300,000 people. Now, in the last six-seven months, 270,000 people have voluntarily signed contracts to serve in the Russian army," Putin said, further adding that the "process continues, with 1,000-1,500 people coming every day to sign contracts". On being asked about whether Russia will introduce another mobilisation wave, he did not outright deny the possibility, but said that "our men, knowing what awaits them on the front, still go for this consciously and voluntarily to defend the motherland". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin says West sending F-16s to Ukraine will 'only prolong conflict'

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