<p>Yevgeny Prigozhin, who is the head of The Wagner Group, said that it will continue its activities in Africa and Belarus. He added that the group is not currently recruiting new fighters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an audio message published by a Wagner-linked Telegram account on Monday (July 31), Prigozhin said that the group was deciding on its next objectives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ever since its failed coup attempt in late June against the Russian defence establishment, the future of Wagner and Prigozhin has remained a matter of speculation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kremlin had earlier said he and some of Wagner's mercenaries would leave for Belarus.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Prigozhin attended a meeting with Vladimir Putin last week in St Petersburg&nbsp;when the Russian president was hosting African leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-intensifies-attacks-on-ukraine-strike-kills-four-in-kryvyi-rih-621035">Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine, fresh strike kills four in Kryvyi Rih</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The news agency Reuters reported that a voice sounding like Prigozhin's said in the message: "Today we are defining our next tasks, whose outline is becoming clearer and clearer. Undoubtedly, these are tasks that will be carried out in the name of the greatness of Russia."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The audio was published on Grey Zone, a Telegram channel affiliated with Wagner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the audio message, Prigozhin said that most Wagner fighters were currently on leave, because "before that there was a long period of very hard work".&nbsp;He added that they have fought in some of the fiercest battles of the Ukraine war.</p>

<p>After the failed coup, the Kremlin said Wagner fighters who had not taken part would transfer to the regular army, signing contracts with the Defence Ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-station-struck-in-overnight-strikes-as-ukraine-continues-drone-attacks-on-russia-620958">Police station struck in overnight strikes as Ukraine continues drone attacks on Russia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;What is US' plan to help Australia develop guided missiles by 2025&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>'No plans to carry out a new recruitment'</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Wagner chief said that "unfortunately" some of his fighters had moved to other "power structures", but he said they were looking to return.</p>

<p>"As long as we don't experience a shortage in personnel, we don't plan to carry out a new recruitment," Prigozhin said.</p>

<p>"However, we will be extremely grateful to you if you keep in touch with us, and as soon as the Motherland needs to create a new group that will be able to protect the interests of our country, we will certainly start recruiting," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, Prigozhin also said Wagner was ready to further increase its presence in Africa. Since the mutiny, some Wagner fighters have moved to Belarus and started training its army.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Africa, Wagner's role is apparently a source of concern for Western governments as the United States has accused it of committing widespread atrocities and imposed sanctions on it as a criminal organisation, which they deny. Prigozhin even claimed that it works in line with the laws of the countries where it operates.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Yevgeny Prigozhin, who is the head of The Wagner Group, said that it will continue its activities in Africa and Belarus. He added that the group is not currently recruiting new fighters.

Yevgeny Prigozhin, who is the head of The Wagner Group, said that it will continue its activities in Africa and Belarus. He added that the group is not currently recruiting new fighters. In an audio message published by a Wagner-linked Telegram account on Monday (July 31), Prigozhin said that the group was deciding on its next objectives. Ever since its failed coup attempt in late June against the Russian defence establishment, the future of Wagner and Prigozhin has remained a matter of speculation. The Kremlin had earlier said he and some of Wagner's mercenaries would leave for Belarus. Meanwhile, Prigozhin attended a meeting with Vladimir Putin last week in St Petersburg when the Russian president was hosting African leaders. Also read: Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine, fresh strike kills four in Kryvyi Rih The news agency Reuters reported that a voice sounding like Prigozhin's said in the message: "Today we are defining our next tasks, whose outline is becoming clearer and clearer. Undoubtedly, these are tasks that will be carried out in the name of the greatness of Russia." The audio was published on Grey Zone, a Telegram channel affiliated with Wagner. In the audio message, Prigozhin said that most Wagner fighters were currently on leave, because "before that there was a long period of very hard work". He added that they have fought in some of the fiercest battles of the Ukraine war. After the failed coup, the Kremlin said Wagner fighters who had not taken part would transfer to the regular army, signing contracts with the Defence Ministry. Also read: Police station struck in overnight strikes as Ukraine continues drone attacks on Russia Watch: What is US' plan to help Australia develop guided missiles by 2025 × 'No plans to carry out a new recruitment' The Wagner chief said that "unfortunately" some of his fighters had moved to other "power structures", but he said they were looking to return. "As long as we don't experience a shortage in personnel, we don't plan to carry out a new recruitment," Prigozhin said. "However, we will be extremely grateful to you if you keep in touch with us, and as soon as the Motherland needs to create a new group that will be able to protect the interests of our country, we will certainly start recruiting," he added. Last week, Prigozhin also said Wagner was ready to further increase its presence in Africa. Since the mutiny, some Wagner fighters have moved to Belarus and started training its army. In Africa, Wagner's role is apparently a source of concern for Western governments as the United States has accused it of committing widespread atrocities and imposed sanctions on it as a criminal organisation, which they deny. Prigozhin even claimed that it works in line with the laws of the countries where it operates. (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: Wagner chief says group is not recruiting now, but may do so in future

<p>At least five, including a 10-year-old child,&nbsp;have been killed after missile strikes on the central Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih, the country's emergency services said Monday (July 31).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a video posted by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, smoke was seen billowing from a multi-storey building. According to reports, a&nbsp;four-storey building had been almost levelled.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Initially,&nbsp;reports suggested&nbsp;two casualties, with interior minister Ihor Klymenko saying on television that several people were under the rubble.&nbsp;The minister also said that the general prosecutor's office said 25 people had been wounded, including children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, the emergency services updated the death toll. The number of those who were wounded is more than 40.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-station-struck-in-overnight-strikes-as-ukraine-continues-drone-attacks-on-russia-620958">Police station struck in overnight strikes as Ukraine continues drone attacks on Russia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Two missiles landed close to the centre of Kryvyi Rig just after 9:00 am (0600 GMT), Klymenko wrote on Telegram.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Mayor Oleksandr Vilkul said the deceased included a 10-year-old girl and her 45-year-old mother.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Oleksiy Kuleba, who is the deputy head of Zelensky's office, said: "Every day, Ukrainian cities are under fire from Russian terrorists. Sumy, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipro, Kharkiv. This is only for the last few days."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kuleba said targeting civilians was a sign of "the despair and defeat of the Russian Federation at the front".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Monday morning. Regions of Ukraine are being shelled by the occupiers, who continue to terrorize peaceful cities and people. Kryvyi Rih, Kherson. Residential buildings, a university building, a crossroads were hit. Unfortunately, there are dead and wounded. There may be people… <a href="https://t.co/goMVBbCN1B">pic.twitter.com/goMVBbCN1B</a></p>
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1685919969916112900?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Shelling in Kherson&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Andrii Yermak, the head of the Ukrainian President's Office, posted on Telegram on Monday that Russian shelling on the city of Kherson has killed at least four people and injured more than 15.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yermak wrote: "The enemy is hitting residential areas. The Korabelny district and the central part of the city suffered the most. There are 4 dead and 17 wounded as of now."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Oleksandr Prokudin, who is the head of the Kherson region military administration, wrote in a telegram post on Monday: "Such intensity of shelling is due to the rotation of enemy troops on the left bank [of the Dnipro river]. Russia has replenished its forces that our Armed Forces had previously destroyed."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nuclear-war-if-putins-top-aide-issues-ultimate-threat-620874">‘Nuclear war if...': Putin's top aide issues ultimate threat</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Monday that Moscow has intensified strikes on Ukrainian military infrastructure in response to attacks on Russian-controlled territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shoigu said, "Against the background of the failure of the so-called 'counteroffensive', Kyiv... has focused on carrying out terrorist attacks on civilian infrastructure. The intensity of our strikes against Ukrainian military facilities... has been considerably increased."</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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At least five, including a 10-year-old child, have been killed after missile strikes on the central Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih, the country's emergency services said Monday (July 31).

At least five, including a 10-year-old child, have been killed after missile strikes on the central Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih, the country's emergency services said Monday (July 31). In a video posted by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, smoke was seen billowing from a multi-storey building. According to reports, a four-storey building had been almost levelled. Initially, reports suggested two casualties, with interior minister Ihor Klymenko saying on television that several people were under the rubble. The minister also said that the general prosecutor's office said 25 people had been wounded, including children. Later, the emergency services updated the death toll. The number of those who were wounded is more than 40. Also read: Police station struck in overnight strikes as Ukraine continues drone attacks on Russia Two missiles landed close to the centre of Kryvyi Rig just after 9:00 am (0600 GMT), Klymenko wrote on Telegram. Meanwhile, Mayor Oleksandr Vilkul said the deceased included a 10-year-old girl and her 45-year-old mother. Oleksiy Kuleba, who is the deputy head of Zelensky's office, said: "Every day, Ukrainian cities are under fire from Russian terrorists. Sumy, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipro, Kharkiv. This is only for the last few days." Kuleba said targeting civilians was a sign of "the despair and defeat of the Russian Federation at the front". Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Monday morning. Regions of Ukraine are being shelled by the occupiers, who continue to terrorize peaceful cities and people. Kryvyi Rih, Kherson. Residential buildings, a university building, a crossroads were hit. Unfortunately, there are dead and wounded. There may be people… pic.twitter.com/goMVBbCN1B — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) July 31, 2023 × Shelling in Kherson Andrii Yermak, the head of the Ukrainian President's Office, posted on Telegram on Monday that Russian shelling on the city of Kherson has killed at least four people and injured more than 15. Yermak wrote: "The enemy is hitting residential areas. The Korabelny district and the central part of the city suffered the most. There are 4 dead and 17 wounded as of now." Oleksandr Prokudin, who is the head of the Kherson region military administration, wrote in a telegram post on Monday: "Such intensity of shelling is due to the rotation of enemy troops on the left bank [of the Dnipro river]. Russia has replenished its forces that our Armed Forces had previously destroyed." Also read: ‘Nuclear war if...': Putin's top aide issues ultimate threat Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine Meanwhile, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Monday that Moscow has intensified strikes on Ukrainian military infrastructure in response to attacks on Russian-controlled territory. Shoigu said, "Against the background of the failure of the so-called 'counteroffensive', Kyiv... has focused on carrying out terrorist attacks on civilian infrastructure. The intensity of our strikes against Ukrainian military facilities... has been considerably increased." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) 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 intensifies attacks on Ukraine, fresh strike kills six in Kryvyi Rih

Russian President Vladimir Putin has held talks with his South African counterpart Cyril Ramaphosa after the conclusion of the Russia-Africa Summit. Putin also met with leaders of the major African States and organizations during the summit. Putin and Ramaphosa discussed bilateral relations in cooperation with BRICS and the United Nations.

Ramaphosa: Russia-African Summit 'most successful'

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

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

Russia strikes Dnipro amid reports of Ukraine using North Korean rockets

In the Russia-Africa Summit, the African nations are pressing Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the Ukraine war. They're calling on Moscow to renew the Black Sea grain deal that it tore up last week. This comes after Putin's commitment to The Forum saying that Russia will in fact replace the Ukrainian grain supply affected by its deal exit.

Russia-Africa Summit: African leaders urge Putin to end Ukraine war

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (July 28) said Moscow is "carefully" examining proposals made by some African leaders to end the conflict in Ukraine amid reports of an intensive counteroffensive by Kyiv. On the second day of the&nbsp;Russia-Africa summit in Saint Petersburg, Putin said: "We respect your initiatives and we are examining them carefully."</p>

<p>"Previous mediation initiatives were monopolised by so-called advanced democracies. Now, Africa too is ready to help resolve problems that appear to be outside of its area of priorities," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The African continent is indeed becoming a new centre of power. Its political and economic role is growing exponentially. Everyone will have to take this reality into account. For example, let's look at the initiative by a number of African states on solving the Ukraine crisis, which is an acute problem, we are not shying away from reviewing it," Putin added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before Russia, an African group travelled to Ukraine and offered crisis mediation. They called for military de-escalation, security assurances for both parties and mutual acknowledgement of sovereignty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The offer to mediate was rejected by Ukraine, saying it would freeze the conflict without ensuring that Russian troops leave Ukrainian soil. The Kremlin had also said earlier that the African proposals would be "very difficult to implement".</p>

<h2><strong>Russia's grain offer to African nations</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Russia recently pulled out of an agreement that would have allowed Ukrainian grain exports over the Black Sea, causing worry among African nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Putin stated at a Russia-Africa meeting that Russia was increasing food supplies to Africa, including free grain shipments announced the day before. The Russian president said that he was interested in developing military relations with the continent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin also said Russia was prepared to supply some weapons to Africa for free to enhance security on the continent, and to work more closely with African law enforcement and intelligence services.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (July 28) said Moscow is "carefully" examining proposals made by some African leaders to end the conflict in Ukraine amid reports of an intensive counteroffensive by Kyiv.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (July 28) said Moscow is "carefully" examining proposals made by some African leaders to end the conflict in Ukraine amid reports of an intensive counteroffensive by Kyiv. On the second day of the Russia-Africa summit in Saint Petersburg, Putin said: "We respect your initiatives and we are examining them carefully." "Previous mediation initiatives were monopolised by so-called advanced democracies. Now, Africa too is ready to help resolve problems that appear to be outside of its area of priorities," he said. "The African continent is indeed becoming a new centre of power. Its political and economic role is growing exponentially. Everyone will have to take this reality into account. For example, let's look at the initiative by a number of African states on solving the Ukraine crisis, which is an acute problem, we are not shying away from reviewing it," Putin added. Before Russia, an African group travelled to Ukraine and offered crisis mediation. They called for military de-escalation, security assurances for both parties and mutual acknowledgement of sovereignty. The offer to mediate was rejected by Ukraine, saying it would freeze the conflict without ensuring that Russian troops leave Ukrainian soil. The Kremlin had also said earlier that the African proposals would be "very difficult to implement". Russia's grain offer to African nations Russia recently pulled out of an agreement that would have allowed Ukrainian grain exports over the Black Sea, causing worry among African nations. But Putin stated at a Russia-Africa meeting that Russia was increasing food supplies to Africa, including free grain shipments announced the day before. The Russian president said that he was interested in developing military relations with the continent. Putin also said Russia was prepared to supply some weapons to Africa for free to enhance security on the continent, and to work more closely with African law enforcement and intelligence services. (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 Russia 'carefully' examining African proposals to end Ukraine conflict

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (July 26) claimed that Ukraine had intensified attacks on the frontline in the last few days. Reuters reported that a Ukrainian official said the country's forces are making slow but steady progress in the battlefield.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday, three different media outlets cited unnamed US officials as saying Kyiv had launched a new phase of its ambitious counteroffensive which seeks to eject Russian troops from nearly 20% of Ukrainian land still under occupation.</p>

<p>Asked about these reports, Yuriy Sak, an adviser to Ukraine's defence minister, told Reuters that "there is nothing new" happening at front lines. "In the south, we are moving forward slowly but surely," he said.</p>

<p>As he interacted with Russian television, Putin claimed that every Ukrainian attack had been beaten back. He also said that Russian forces had inflicted significant losses on their opponents.</p>

<p>Defence ministries of both countries appeared to offer contradicting reports of fighting.</p>

<p>Russian defence ministry said that Russian forces had repelled Ukrainian attacks around the village of Klishchiivka, as per reports by Russian news agency TASS. The village is near Bakhmut.</p>

<p>However, Hannah Maliar, Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister wrote on Telegram that Ukraine's troops were "gradually moving forward" near Bakhmut. She claimed that the fight was ongoing near Klischiivka, Kudriumivka and Andriivka.</p>

<p>She claimed that Ukrainian forces beat back Russian attacks near Kupiansk and Lyman.</p>

<h2><strong>The counteroffensive</strong></h2>

<p>Till now, Ukraine's counteroffensive has moved slowly. Ukraine has only been able to recapture few hundred square kilometres. It is just a tiny fraction of the territory which is still under Russian control.</p>

<p>However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed "very good results" on the battlefield in an address on Tuesday evening, promising to give details later.</p>

<p>Ukraine has enjoyed success in a few areas. One of these is the Mokri Yaly river in southeastern Ukraine. In this area, the Ukrainian troops have captured several settlements. The forces are now heading towards the village of Staromaiorske. The village is currently held by Russia.</p>

<p>Aleksandr Khodakovsky, an influential Moscow-backed separatist commander in eastern Ukraine, posted an angry message on his Telegram channel on Wednesday complaining about heavy shelling of Staromaiorske over several days followed by a Ukrainian assault which had made some gains.</p>

<p>Sak said there was fighting ongoing near Staromaiorske but the village was "not yet" under Ukrainian control.<br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (July 26) claimed that Ukraine had intensified attacks on the frontline in the last few days. Reuters reported that a Ukrainian official said the country's forces are making slow but steady progress in the battlefield.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (July 26) claimed that Ukraine had intensified attacks on the frontline in the last few days. Reuters reported that a Ukrainian official said the country's forces are making slow but steady progress in the battlefield. On Wednesday, three different media outlets cited unnamed US officials as saying Kyiv had launched a new phase of its ambitious counteroffensive which seeks to eject Russian troops from nearly 20% of Ukrainian land still under occupation. Asked about these reports, Yuriy Sak, an adviser to Ukraine's defence minister, told Reuters that "there is nothing new" happening at front lines. "In the south, we are moving forward slowly but surely," he said. As he interacted with Russian television, Putin claimed that every Ukrainian attack had been beaten back. He also said that Russian forces had inflicted significant losses on their opponents. Defence ministries of both countries appeared to offer contradicting reports of fighting. Russian defence ministry said that Russian forces had repelled Ukrainian attacks around the village of Klishchiivka, as per reports by Russian news agency TASS. The village is near Bakhmut. However, Hannah Maliar, Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister wrote on Telegram that Ukraine's troops were "gradually moving forward" near Bakhmut. She claimed that the fight was ongoing near Klischiivka, Kudriumivka and Andriivka. She claimed that Ukrainian forces beat back Russian attacks near Kupiansk and Lyman. The counteroffensive Till now, Ukraine's counteroffensive has moved slowly. Ukraine has only been able to recapture few hundred square kilometres. It is just a tiny fraction of the territory which is still under Russian control. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed "very good results" on the battlefield in an address on Tuesday evening, promising to give details later. Ukraine has enjoyed success in a few areas. One of these is the Mokri Yaly river in southeastern Ukraine. In this area, the Ukrainian troops have captured several settlements. The forces are now heading towards the village of Staromaiorske. The village is currently held by Russia. Aleksandr Khodakovsky, an influential Moscow-backed separatist commander in eastern Ukraine, posted an angry message on his Telegram channel on Wednesday complaining about heavy shelling of Staromaiorske over several days followed by a Ukrainian assault which had made some gains. Sak said there was fighting ongoing near Staromaiorske but the village was "not yet" under Ukrainian control. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine intensifying attacks on frontline, Russian forces inflicted heavy losses, claims Putin

<p>Ukraine has apparently launched a major offensive as the Russian army said on Wednesday (July 26) that it had repelled a Ukrainian attack involving several hundred soldiers near the town of Orikhiv in the south. The region mentioned by Russia is one of the areas where a counteroffensive is being carried out by Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the past few weeks, Ukraine claimed that its counter-offensive is underway and also that the nation was making advances on all fronts despite consistent Russian attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The highly anticipated counteroffensive began after Ukraine stockpiled Western weapons and built&nbsp;up its offensive forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia's defence ministry said in a statement that "on the morning of July 26, the enemy resumed intensive offensive operations" near Orikhiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-is-boosting-black-sea-surveillance-after-russian-grain-deal-exit-619707">NATO is boosting Black Sea surveillance after Russia's grain deal exit</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>It added that Ukraine "conducted a massive attack by the forces of three battalions reinforced by tanks".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry further said that "all attacks of the Armed Force of Ukraine were repelled. Positions were held".&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by CNN mentioned, citing two US officials, that Ukraine has committed more forces to its counteroffensive in the southeast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The news of this development comes after nearly two months of slow progress and the report mentioned that this indicates that Ukraine has identified potential weaknesses in Russian defensive lines.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hailing-historic-cooperation-russian-defence-minister-shoigu-says-north-korea-an-important-partner-619608">North Korea an 'important partner', says Russian Defence Minister Shoigu hailing historic cooperation</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted by the outlet, one official said that the Ukrainian military still has additional combat power in reserve and the "bulk" of the forces have been committed to the counter-offensive.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The New York Times reported that unnamed Pentagon officials believe that the "main thrust" of the counteroffensive had now begun. The official noted that the Ukrainian army poured thousands of Western-trained and equipped reinforcements into a perceived weak spot in Russian defences in the Zaporizhzhia region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Russia's Defence Min Sergei Shoigu meets North Korea's Kim Jong-un, hands Kim a letter from Putin&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Russia claims new gains&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, the Russian military claimed that it progressed in the direction of Lyman after reporting an advance of up to two kilometres on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry said the fighting was taking place near the village of Sergiivka, which Moscow claimed to have taken control of.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukraine has apparently launched a major offensive as the Russian army said on Wednesday (July 26) that it had repelled a Ukrainian attack involving several hundred soldiers near the town of Orikhiv in the south.

Ukraine has apparently launched a major offensive as the Russian army said on Wednesday (July 26) that it had repelled a Ukrainian attack involving several hundred soldiers near the town of Orikhiv in the south. The region mentioned by Russia is one of the areas where a counteroffensive is being carried out by Kyiv. In the past few weeks, Ukraine claimed that its counter-offensive is underway and also that the nation was making advances on all fronts despite consistent Russian attacks. The highly anticipated counteroffensive began after Ukraine stockpiled Western weapons and built up its offensive forces. Russia's defence ministry said in a statement that "on the morning of July 26, the enemy resumed intensive offensive operations" near Orikhiv. Also read: NATO is boosting Black Sea surveillance after Russia's grain deal exit It added that Ukraine "conducted a massive attack by the forces of three battalions reinforced by tanks". The ministry further said that "all attacks of the Armed Force of Ukraine were repelled. Positions were held". A report by CNN mentioned, citing two US officials, that Ukraine has committed more forces to its counteroffensive in the southeast. The news of this development comes after nearly two months of slow progress and the report mentioned that this indicates that Ukraine has identified potential weaknesses in Russian defensive lines. Also read: North Korea an 'important partner', says Russian Defence Minister Shoigu hailing historic cooperation As quoted by the outlet, one official said that the Ukrainian military still has additional combat power in reserve and the "bulk" of the forces have been committed to the counter-offensive. The New York Times reported that unnamed Pentagon officials believe that the "main thrust" of the counteroffensive had now begun. The official noted that the Ukrainian army poured thousands of Western-trained and equipped reinforcements into a perceived weak spot in Russian defences in the Zaporizhzhia region. Watch: Russia's Defence Min Sergei Shoigu meets North Korea's Kim Jong-un, hands Kim a letter from Putin × Russia claims new gains In Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, the Russian military claimed that it progressed in the direction of Lyman after reporting an advance of up to two kilometres on Tuesday. The ministry said the fighting was taking place near the village of Sergiivka, which Moscow claimed to have taken control of. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) 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 repels major attack near Zaporizhzhia as Ukraine resumes 'intensive offensive'

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<p>A Romanian ship was damaged during Russian attacks on the Ukrainian port of Reni on the River Danube on Monday, according to media reports on Tuesday (July 25). The representatives of the consular office from Ukraine said that the ship sustained minor damages and continued its journey. A report by news.ro said that Russia launched drone attacks in Reni on Sunday night, targeting warehouses. The attacks destroyed a grain depot and damaged several storage facilities, a report by Ukrainska Pravada said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Oleh Kiper, head of the Odesa Oblast Military Administration, said that six workers were injured of which four had to be hospitalised. Meanwhile, no Romanian citizens were injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Romanian President Klaus Iohannis said that the fresh attacks by Russia posed a serious threat to security in the Black Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia launches new drone strikes on Kyiv</strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday, Russia launched new drone strikes on Kyiv and parts of central and northern Ukraine. Serhiy Popko, head of the Kyiv military administration, said that Russia used Iranian-made Shahed drones to attack Kyiv for the sixth time this month, but all were shot down. There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Air sirens blared for over three hours over the Kyiv region, a report by the news agency Reuters said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Regional officials said an unidentified infrastructure object was hit in the northern region of Zhytomyr, two drones came down in fields and one in an empty hangar in the central region of Cherkasy, and one drone was shot down in each of the central Poltava and northern Sumy regions.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian MP arrested for suspected collaboration with Moscow</strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian member of parliament Oleksandr Ponomaryov was arrested on Tuesday for suspected collaboration with Russia. Ponomaryov was taken into custody pending trial on treason allegations, according to the prosecutor general's office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the Security Service of Ukraine said that Ponomaryov had "willingly collaborated" with Russia when he was in the occupied part of the Zaporizhzhia region. The MP has denied collaborating with Russia in the past.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A Romanian ship was damaged during Russian attacks on the Ukrainian port of Reni on the River Danube on Monday, according to media reports on Tuesday (July 25). The representatives of the consular office from Ukraine said that the ship sustained minor damages and continued its journey.

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

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

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<p>A former US Marine, who was once jailed in Russia, has been injured fighting for Ukraine, the US State Department said on Tuesday (July 25). The former Marine,&nbsp;Trevor Reed was released by Russia in a prison swap in April 2022 and was sent to Germany for treatment when he was injured fighting for Ukraine, State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Patel added that Reed was transported to Germany with the help of a private, non-governmental organisation and was receiving medical care. The nature of the injuries is not yet known. Speaking to the news agency Associated Press, two US officials said that the former Marine was taken to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, a level II trauma care centre located near Ramstein Air Base.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Reed travelled to Ukraine to fight on his own'</strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday, State Department spokesperson Patel also said that Trevor Reed was not engaged in any activities on behalf of the US government and had travelled to Ukraine to fight on his own.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“As I indicated, we have been incredibly clear warning American citizens, American nationals, not to travel to Ukraine, let alone participate in fighting,” Patel said. “As you know, we are not in a place to provide assistance to evacuate private US citizens from Ukraine, including those Americans who may decide to travel to Ukraine to participate in fighting,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The 2019 arrest</strong></h2>

<p>Reed, a Texas University graduate, was arrested in 2019 for assault on law enforcement officers after getting drunk and was sentenced to nine years in prison. However, in April 2022, Russia released him after the US negotiated an exchange for Konstantin Yaroshenko, a Russian pilot and alleged drug smuggler who was sentenced to 20 years in prison by an American court.</p>

<p>While in custody, the former Marine said that he was coughing up blood and had also staged a hunger strike to protest the conditions under which he was held.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he did not expect Reed's case to have an impact on US efforts to bring home two Americans held in Russia - journalist Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan.</p>

<p>"My expectation is that even as we are dealing with all sorts of other challenges in our relationship with Russia, we will and we are determined to continue to work to bring both Evan and Paul home," Blinken said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A former US Marine, who was once jailed in Russia, has been injured fighting for Ukraine, the US State Department said on Tuesday (July 25). The former Marine, Trevor Reed was released by Russia in a prison swap in April 2022 and was sent to Germany for treatment when he was injured fighting for Ukraine, State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel said.

A former US Marine, who was once jailed in Russia, has been injured fighting for Ukraine, the US State Department said on Tuesday (July 25). The former Marine, Trevor Reed was released by Russia in a prison swap in April 2022 and was sent to Germany for treatment when he was injured fighting for Ukraine, State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel said. Patel added that Reed was transported to Germany with the help of a private, non-governmental organisation and was receiving medical care. The nature of the injuries is not yet known. Speaking to the news agency Associated Press, two US officials said that the former Marine was taken to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, a level II trauma care centre located near Ramstein Air Base. 'Reed travelled to Ukraine to fight on his own' On Tuesday, State Department spokesperson Patel also said that Trevor Reed was not engaged in any activities on behalf of the US government and had travelled to Ukraine to fight on his own. “As I indicated, we have been incredibly clear warning American citizens, American nationals, not to travel to Ukraine, let alone participate in fighting,” Patel said. “As you know, we are not in a place to provide assistance to evacuate private US citizens from Ukraine, including those Americans who may decide to travel to Ukraine to participate in fighting,” he added. The 2019 arrest Reed, a Texas University graduate, was arrested in 2019 for assault on law enforcement officers after getting drunk and was sentenced to nine years in prison. However, in April 2022, Russia released him after the US negotiated an exchange for Konstantin Yaroshenko, a Russian pilot and alleged drug smuggler who was sentenced to 20 years in prison by an American court. While in custody, the former Marine said that he was coughing up blood and had also staged a hunger strike to protest the conditions under which he was held. On Tuesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he did not expect Reed's case to have an impact on US efforts to bring home two Americans held in Russia - journalist Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan. "My expectation is that even as we are dealing with all sorts of other challenges in our relationship with Russia, we will and we are determined to continue to work to bring both Evan and Paul home," Blinken said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former US Marine, who was released from Russian prison, injured fighting for Ukraine

<p>INDIA, or the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, a newly formed alliance of 26 opposition parties, will bring a no-confidence motion in Parliament against the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the war in Ukraine rages on, a Romanian ship was damaged during Russian attacks on the Ukrainian port of Reni on the River Danube, according to media reports. The ship sustained minor damages and continued its journey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In other news, the communication between the International Space Station (ISS) and mission control was disrupted on Tuesday due to a power outage at NASA's building in Houston.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-alliance-india-to-submit-no-confidence-motion-against-government-619377"><strong>Opposition alliance INDIA to move no-confidence motion against government</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/25/369384-untitled-design-2023-07-25t223559368.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>The newly formed alliance of 26 opposition parties, INDIA or Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, will be bringing a no-confidence motion in Lok Sabha against the government on Wednesday, July 26,&nbsp;Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury told ANI news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-romanian-ship-damaged-during-russian-attacks-on-reni-port-say-reports-619464"><strong>Ukraine war: Romanian ship damaged during Russian attacks on Reni port, say reports</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/26/369442-2023-07-24t071430z1lynxmpej6n067rtroptp4ukraine-crisis-attack-odesa.JPG?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>A Romanian ship was damaged during Russian attacks on the Ukrainian port of Reni on the River Danube on Monday, according to media reports on Tuesday (July 25). The representatives of the consular office from Ukraine said that the ship sustained minor damages and continued its journey.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-power-outage-disrupts-communication-between-mission-control-and-iss-619446"><strong>NASA power outage disrupts communication between Mission Control and ISS</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/23/361569-eduwhatisiss58.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>The communication between the International Space Station (ISS) and mission control was disrupted on Tuesday (July 25) because of a power outage at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's building in Houston, United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-marine-who-was-released-from-russian-prison-injured-fighting-for-ukraine-619448"><strong>Former US Marine, who was released from Russian prison, injured fighting for Ukraine</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/26/369431-2023-07-25t184509z1lynxmpej6o0vkrtroptp4russia-usa-court-reed.JPG?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>A former US Marine, who was once jailed in Russia, has been injured fighting for Ukraine, the US State Department said on Tuesday (July 25). The former Marine- Trevor Reed was released by Russia in a prison swap in April 2022 and was sent to Germany for treatment when he was injured fighting for Ukraine, State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | TikTok to launch an e-commerce platform</strong></p>

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INDIA, or the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, a newly formed alliance of 26 opposition parties, will bring a no-confidence motion in Parliament against the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

INDIA, or the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, a newly formed alliance of 26 opposition parties, will bring a no-confidence motion in Parliament against the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As the war in Ukraine rages on, a Romanian ship was damaged during Russian attacks on the Ukrainian port of Reni on the River Danube, according to media reports. The ship sustained minor damages and continued its journey. In other news, the communication between the International Space Station (ISS) and mission control was disrupted on Tuesday due to a power outage at NASA's building in Houston. Click on the headlines to read more: Opposition alliance INDIA to move no-confidence motion against government The newly formed alliance of 26 opposition parties, INDIA or Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, will be bringing a no-confidence motion in Lok Sabha against the government on Wednesday, July 26, Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury told ANI news agency. Ukraine war: Romanian ship damaged during Russian attacks on Reni port, say reports A Romanian ship was damaged during Russian attacks on the Ukrainian port of Reni on the River Danube on Monday, according to media reports on Tuesday (July 25). The representatives of the consular office from Ukraine said that the ship sustained minor damages and continued its journey. NASA power outage disrupts communication between Mission Control and ISS The communication between the International Space Station (ISS) and mission control was disrupted on Tuesday (July 25) because of a power outage at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's building in Houston, United States. Former US Marine, who was released from Russian prison, injured fighting for Ukraine A former US Marine, who was once jailed in Russia, has been injured fighting for Ukraine, the US State Department said on Tuesday (July 25). The former Marine- Trevor Reed was released by Russia in a prison swap in April 2022 and was sent to Germany for treatment when he was injured fighting for Ukraine, State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel said. Watch | TikTok to launch an e-commerce platform ×

Morning brief: Ukraine war updates, Indian opposition alliance to move no-confidence motion against govt

<p>The ongoing Ukraine war has dominated the lists of agendas of major summits taking place ever since Russia invaded the neighbouring nation last year on February 24. The same is expected to happen in the upcoming G20 summit, which is scheduled to be held in India in September. But there have been some hurdles because of the disagreements on text related to the Ukraine war at all G20 ministerial meetings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India-based media outlet Hindustan Times reported citing sources that disagreements over text to refer to the Ukraine war have stalled consensus in outcome documents at all G20 ministerial meetings hosted by India so far.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report further mentioned that the negotiators are trying to come up with a compromise formulation that will be acceptable to all member states in time for the summit.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Moscow has apparently dissociated itself from all references to Ukraine in documents issued after G20 ministerial meetings while Brazil, the host for G20 Summit in 2024, came up with a proposal to end the deadlock but didn’t get much traction, the report said citing sources.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Brazil&nbsp;offered a solution in which the reference to Ukraine would be suspended in the context of the leaders' declaration adopted at the 2022 G20 summit in Bali, Indonesia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But so far, nothing has been finalised.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sources told the outlet that China has also raised objections saying&nbsp;that G20 is not the right forum to address security issues. Beijing also opposed the inclusion of any "geopolitical content" in outcome documents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Christina Segal-Knowles, who is the US deputy head of the delegation that participated in the third G20 sherpas' meeting in Hampi, Karnataka, said, "The war in Ukraine is certainly a major issue that's affecting the global economy. We need to be able to talk about that for the G20 to remain a credible institution."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>G20 members condemned Russia for quitting grain deal</strong></h2>

<p>Recently, several G20 members condemned Russia for quitting the Black Sea grain deal that allowed the safe export of grain from Ukraine and helped tide over the food crisis and inflationary trends due to supply shortage.<br />
<br />
"Several members condemned it, saying that shouldn't have happened... passing through the Black Sea shouldn't have been stopped or suspended," Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman told reporters recetly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The United Nations-brokered deal expired on July 17 after Russia quit with a warning that it could not guarantee the safety of ships, in a move the UN said would "strike a blow to people in need everywhere."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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The ongoing Ukraine war has dominated the lists of agendas of major summits taking place ever since Russia invaded the neighbouring nation last year on February 24.

The ongoing Ukraine war has dominated the lists of agendas of major summits taking place ever since Russia invaded the neighbouring nation last year on February 24. The same is expected to happen in the upcoming G20 summit, which is scheduled to be held in India in September. But there have been some hurdles because of the disagreements on text related to the Ukraine war at all G20 ministerial meetings. India-based media outlet Hindustan Times reported citing sources that disagreements over text to refer to the Ukraine war have stalled consensus in outcome documents at all G20 ministerial meetings hosted by India so far. The report further mentioned that the negotiators are trying to come up with a compromise formulation that will be acceptable to all member states in time for the summit. Moscow has apparently dissociated itself from all references to Ukraine in documents issued after G20 ministerial meetings while Brazil, the host for G20 Summit in 2024, came up with a proposal to end the deadlock but didn’t get much traction, the report said citing sources. Brazil offered a solution in which the reference to Ukraine would be suspended in the context of the leaders' declaration adopted at the 2022 G20 summit in Bali, Indonesia. But so far, nothing has been finalised. Sources told the outlet that China has also raised objections saying that G20 is not the right forum to address security issues. Beijing also opposed the inclusion of any "geopolitical content" in outcome documents. Christina Segal-Knowles, who is the US deputy head of the delegation that participated in the third G20 sherpas' meeting in Hampi, Karnataka, said, "The war in Ukraine is certainly a major issue that's affecting the global economy. We need to be able to talk about that for the G20 to remain a credible institution." G20 members condemned Russia for quitting grain deal Recently, several G20 members condemned Russia for quitting the Black Sea grain deal that allowed the safe export of grain from Ukraine and helped tide over the food crisis and inflationary trends due to supply shortage. "Several members condemned it, saying that shouldn't have happened... passing through the Black Sea shouldn't have been stopped or suspended," Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman told reporters recetly. The United Nations-brokered deal expired on July 17 after Russia quit with a warning that it could not guarantee the safety of ships, in a move the UN said would "strike a blow to people in need everywhere." (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.

G20 members fail to strike consensus over Ukraine war mention in text ahead of summit: Report

<p>Russia on Tuesday (July 25) pounded the Ukrainian capital with a sixth air attack this month, the military administration of Kyiv said. Serhiy Popko, the head of Kyiv's military, said on Telegram messaging app that Russia attacked Kyiv with Iranian-made Shahed drones. All the drones were downed by Ukraine's air defence systems, he claimed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Popko said that there were no casualties or serious damage, though information was still being collected.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also mentioned that the air alert lasted for around three hours and all air targets were detected and destroyed when they approach Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid Russia's warning of retaliation after a Ukrainian drone strike in Moscow, the Kyiv regional military administration had earlier issued an alert for drone attacks. It warned the residents to stay in shelters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/crackdown-on-putin-critics-navalnys-aide-imprisoned-for-extremist-organisation-619011">Crackdown on Putin critics: Navalny’s aide imprisoned for 'participating in an extremist' organisation</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The air force also issued an alert for drone strikes on the southern Odesa and Mykolayiv regions, which share part of Ukraine's Black Sea coast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The regions are home to port infrastructure that Moscow has battered regularly with attack drones and missiles since exiting a deal facilitating the safe shipment of grain from Ukraine last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia bans medically changing gender to protect 'family values'&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/ukraines-nato-bid-why-zelensky-is-living-under-illusions-618935">Ukraine’s NATO bid: Why Zelensky is living under illusions</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>White House on supporting Ukraine&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The war-torn nation claims that its counteroffensive is underway, but the White House said it did not support Kyiv launching attacks inside Russia after two drones from Ukraine damaged buildings in Moscow earlier on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a press briefing, White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters that "as a general matter we do not support attacks inside of Russia."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia called the two drone strikes on Moscow an act of terror as one of the explosions was close to its defence ministry headquarters. Moscow even vowed to take harsh retaliatory measures against Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jean-Pierre said, "This is a war that Russia started. This is their war. And they can end it at any time by withdrawing forces from Ukraine instead of launching brutal attacks on civilians."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russia on Tuesday (July 25) pounded the Ukrainian capital with a sixth air attack this month, the military administration of Kyiv said. Serhiy Popko, the head of Kyiv's military, said on Telegram messaging app that Russia attacked Kyiv with Iranian-made Shahed drones.

Russia on Tuesday (July 25) pounded the Ukrainian capital with a sixth air attack this month, the military administration of Kyiv said. Serhiy Popko, the head of Kyiv's military, said on Telegram messaging app that Russia attacked Kyiv with Iranian-made Shahed drones. All the drones were downed by Ukraine's air defence systems, he claimed. Popko said that there were no casualties or serious damage, though information was still being collected. He also mentioned that the air alert lasted for around three hours and all air targets were detected and destroyed when they approach Kyiv. Amid Russia's warning of retaliation after a Ukrainian drone strike in Moscow, the Kyiv regional military administration had earlier issued an alert for drone attacks. It warned the residents to stay in shelters. Also read: Crackdown on Putin critics: Navalny’s aide imprisoned for 'participating in an extremist' organisation The air force also issued an alert for drone strikes on the southern Odesa and Mykolayiv regions, which share part of Ukraine's Black Sea coast. The regions are home to port infrastructure that Moscow has battered regularly with attack drones and missiles since exiting a deal facilitating the safe shipment of grain from Ukraine last week. Watch: Russia bans medically changing gender to protect 'family values' × Also read: Ukraine’s NATO bid: Why Zelensky is living under illusions White House on supporting Ukraine The war-torn nation claims that its counteroffensive is underway, but the White House said it did not support Kyiv launching attacks inside Russia after two drones from Ukraine damaged buildings in Moscow earlier on Monday. In a press briefing, White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters that "as a general matter we do not support attacks inside of Russia." Russia called the two drone strikes on Moscow an act of terror as one of the explosions was close to its defence ministry headquarters. Moscow even vowed to take harsh retaliatory measures against Ukraine. Jean-Pierre said, "This is a war that Russia started. This is their war. And they can end it at any time by withdrawing forces from Ukraine instead of launching brutal attacks on civilians." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) 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 strikes Kyiv for sixth time in a month after Ukrainian drones hit near its defence HQ

<p>An Instagram model Fan-Pei Koung has moved to Ukraine as she has become an "emotional support stripper" for soldiers engaged in the ongoing war against Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While aid workers have been going to Ukraine to help those devastated by the war, a "sex tourist" is a new thing for the war-ravaged nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fan-Pei Koung, who hails from Houston Texas, shared some of her images, which many would say are a bit revealing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The image purportedly shows&nbsp;the model on Ukrainian soil, with weapons such as missile launchers. She even described herself as a "globe-trotting girlfriend, now volunteering in Kharkiv".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Koung is quite popular on social media and using the fame, she created an OnlyFans account which is said to be free for Ukrainian soldiers and volunteers. She even said that the occasional locals could also use some cheering up.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-beijing-helping-moscow-by-secretly-supplying-gear-to-the-russian-army-619197">Is Beijing helping Moscow by secretly supplying gear to the Russian army?</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>On the website, Koung said that she makes content about "everything from free emotional breastfeeding to soldiers and volunteers" to collecting donations to distribute to volunteers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She spoke to The Daily Beast, where she called herself a "sex tourist" and also that she is the sexy girl in Ukraine who wants to volunteer and will probably put out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports say that she abandoned her life in the US to move to Europe in 2022. She claimed that in America, she did so many things, including winning a NASA Space Health Challenge and competing in the Miss Taiwanese American pageant in 2015. She has even worked for children's events in Oakland for the last five years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Koung reportedly travelled to Ukraine to volunteer in women's shelters and orphanages in Lviv in November 2022. Her friends had advised just against it, but she did it anyway.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-downs-drone-after-russias-warning-of-retaliation-over-moscow-strike-619151">Russia strikes Kyiv for sixth time in a month after Ukrainian drones hit near its defence HQ</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia’s star-wars weapon can hunt anything that flies | S-550 for India?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>After a while, she felt she was done with what she was doing and thought was ready to take up new challenges. She said, "It didn't feel like anything unique to what I had back in the States. I wanted more. I wanted to be with the military."&nbsp;</p>

<p>She moved to Ukraine full-time in February of 2023 and often found herself in the company of Ukrainians which was quite different from her time spent with the Americans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She said, "My standards are too high because I only want men who can care for themselves and think about people other than themselves."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"None of them [Americans] met my standards. And then I came to Ukraine, and everybody here thinks about people other than themselves," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Ukrainian men, they treat me like an infant. They need to know what I want even before I know what I want. I've never been treated like that in my life," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

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An Instagram model Fan-Pei Koung has moved to Ukraine as she has become an "emotional support stripper" for soldiers engaged in the ongoing war against Russia. While aid workers have been going to Ukraine to help those devastated by the war, a "sex tourist" is a new thing for the war-ravaged nation.

An Instagram model Fan-Pei Koung has moved to Ukraine as she has become an "emotional support stripper" for soldiers engaged in the ongoing war against Russia. While aid workers have been going to Ukraine to help those devastated by the war, a "sex tourist" is a new thing for the war-ravaged nation. Fan-Pei Koung, who hails from Houston Texas, shared some of her images, which many would say are a bit revealing. The image purportedly shows the model on Ukrainian soil, with weapons such as missile launchers. She even described herself as a "globe-trotting girlfriend, now volunteering in Kharkiv". Koung is quite popular on social media and using the fame, she created an OnlyFans account which is said to be free for Ukrainian soldiers and volunteers. She even said that the occasional locals could also use some cheering up. Also read: Is Beijing helping Moscow by secretly supplying gear to the Russian army? On the website, Koung said that she makes content about "everything from free emotional breastfeeding to soldiers and volunteers" to collecting donations to distribute to volunteers. She spoke to The Daily Beast, where she called herself a "sex tourist" and also that she is the sexy girl in Ukraine who wants to volunteer and will probably put out. Reports say that she abandoned her life in the US to move to Europe in 2022. She claimed that in America, she did so many things, including winning a NASA Space Health Challenge and competing in the Miss Taiwanese American pageant in 2015. She has even worked for children's events in Oakland for the last five years. Koung reportedly travelled to Ukraine to volunteer in women's shelters and orphanages in Lviv in November 2022. Her friends had advised just against it, but she did it anyway. Also read: Russia strikes Kyiv for sixth time in a month after Ukrainian drones hit near its defence HQ Watch: Russia’s star-wars weapon can hunt anything that flies | S-550 for India? × After a while, she felt she was done with what she was doing and thought was ready to take up new challenges. She said, "It didn't feel like anything unique to what I had back in the States. I wanted more. I wanted to be with the military." She moved to Ukraine full-time in February of 2023 and often found herself in the company of Ukrainians which was quite different from her time spent with the Americans. She said, "My standards are too high because I only want men who can care for themselves and think about people other than themselves." "None of them [Americans] met my standards. And then I came to Ukraine, and everybody here thinks about people other than themselves," she added. "Ukrainian men, they treat me like an infant. They need to know what I want even before I know what I want. I've never been treated like that in my life," she added. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. 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.

Instagram model is now an 'Emotional Support Stripper' in Ukraine

<p>Ukraine claimed on Monday (July 24) that its military has recaptured more than 16 square kilometres (six square miles) territory from Russian forces in the south and east of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"During the week... the liberated area (in the south) increased by 12.6 square kilometres," said Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister Ganna Malyar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Malyar was speaking in televised remarks. She added that Ukrainian troops had wrested another four square kilometres in the east.</p>

<p>From last month, Ukraine has begun its highly anticipated counteroffensive against Russian troops.</p>

<p>In her televised remarks on Monday, Malyar also said that Russian forces carried out "assault" in the Kupyansk area in eastern Kharkiv region, &nbsp;"aiming to push our units beyond the Oskil river".</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russian strike ‘severely damages’ historic Odesa cathedral, leaves one dead</strong></p>

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<p>Russia attacked Ukraine in February last year. After sustained initial gains, Russian forces had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian attacks.</p>

<p>The western alliance led by the United States has poured in billions of dollars as humanitarian as well as military help for Ukraine. Weapons have also been provided to Ukraine. It is widely held that Ukraine is in a slightly superior position and that a full scale counteroffensive would lead to Russian forces being pushed back.</p>

<p>However, the counteroffensive has not, at least till now, been able to yield spectacular results for Ukraine as it was popularly expected.</p>

<h2><strong>50% Ukraine territory re-captured: Blinken</strong></h2>

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken claimed on Sunday (July 23) that Ukraine has recaptured 50 per cent of the territory lost to Russians.</p>

<p>"It's already taken back about 50% of what was initially seized," Blinken said in an interview with CNN.</p>

<p>"These are still relatively early days of the counteroffensive. It is tough," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian drones hit Moscow buildings&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Russian officials said on Monday that Ukrainian drones hit two buildings in Moscow. The officials said that Russia neutralised the drones and no casualties were reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the drones crashed close to the defence ministry in the centre of the Russian capital, while the other hit an office building in southern Moscow. &nbsp;AFP said its reporters saw a two-storey building with damaged roof.</p>

<p>The attacks came a day after Ukraine vowed to "retaliate" for a Russian missile attack on the port of Odesa.</p>

<p>Russian defence ministry dubbed the drone attack a "terrorist act".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties," it said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Sergei Sobyanin, Mayor of Moscow, the drone strikes took place around 4 am local time (0100 GMT).</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drone-strikes-hit-two-buildings-in-moscow-russia-calls-it-a-terrorist-act-618735">Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia calls it a 'terrorist act'</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, a Moscow-installed governor in Crimea said Russia shot down 11 Ukrainian drones.</p>

<p>Sergei Aksyonov, the governor, said an ammunition depot was "hit" and a house was "damaged". He did not provide more details. Aksyonov said villages near the depot were being evacuated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014. Ukraine has been targeting the peninsula throughout Moscow's offensive. But Crimea has come under more intense attacks in recent weeks. Ukraine has repeatedly maintained that it plans to take back Crimea.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><b><i>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></b></p>

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Ukraine claimed on Monday (July 24) that its military has recaptured more than 16 square kilometres (six square miles) territory from Russian forces in the south and east of the country.

Ukraine claimed on Monday (July 24) that its military has recaptured more than 16 square kilometres (six square miles) territory from Russian forces in the south and east of the country. "During the week... the liberated area (in the south) increased by 12.6 square kilometres," said Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister Ganna Malyar. Malyar was speaking in televised remarks. She added that Ukrainian troops had wrested another four square kilometres in the east. From last month, Ukraine has begun its highly anticipated counteroffensive against Russian troops. In her televised remarks on Monday, Malyar also said that Russian forces carried out "assault" in the Kupyansk area in eastern Kharkiv region, "aiming to push our units beyond the Oskil river". Watch | Russian strike ‘severely damages’ historic Odesa cathedral, leaves one dead × Russia attacked Ukraine in February last year. After sustained initial gains, Russian forces had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian attacks. The western alliance led by the United States has poured in billions of dollars as humanitarian as well as military help for Ukraine. Weapons have also been provided to Ukraine. It is widely held that Ukraine is in a slightly superior position and that a full scale counteroffensive would lead to Russian forces being pushed back. However, the counteroffensive has not, at least till now, been able to yield spectacular results for Ukraine as it was popularly expected. 50% Ukraine territory re-captured: Blinken US Secretary of State Antony Blinken claimed on Sunday (July 23) that Ukraine has recaptured 50 per cent of the territory lost to Russians. "It's already taken back about 50% of what was initially seized," Blinken said in an interview with CNN. "These are still relatively early days of the counteroffensive. It is tough," he said. Ukrainian drones hit Moscow buildings Russian officials said on Monday that Ukrainian drones hit two buildings in Moscow. The officials said that Russia neutralised the drones and no casualties were reported. One of the drones crashed close to the defence ministry in the centre of the Russian capital, while the other hit an office building in southern Moscow. AFP said its reporters saw a two-storey building with damaged roof. The attacks came a day after Ukraine vowed to "retaliate" for a Russian missile attack on the port of Odesa. Russian defence ministry dubbed the drone attack a "terrorist act". "Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties," it said. According to Sergei Sobyanin, Mayor of Moscow, the drone strikes took place around 4 am local time (0100 GMT). Also Read | Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia calls it a 'terrorist act' Meanwhile, a Moscow-installed governor in Crimea said Russia shot down 11 Ukrainian drones. Sergei Aksyonov, the governor, said an ammunition depot was "hit" and a house was "damaged". He did not provide more details. Aksyonov said villages near the depot were being evacuated. Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014. Ukraine has been targeting the peninsula throughout Moscow's offensive. But Crimea has come under more intense attacks in recent weeks. Ukraine has repeatedly maintained that it plans to take back Crimea. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine re-captured 16 sq km of territory from Russia last week, claims deputy defence minister

<p>China again emerged to be at the centre of the Russia-Ukraine war as a report by POLITICO claimed that Beijing secretly sent gear to Russia, enough to equip an army.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned that a tall Caucasian man was seen inspecting body armour in pictures posted on the Chinese company's website.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shanghai H Win, a manufacturer of military-grade protective gear, said on the official website in March that "this spring, one of our customers came to our company to confirm the style and quantity of bulletproof vests, and carefully tested the quality of our vests."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The manufacturer of military-grade protective gear wrote on its website that the customer "immediately directly confirmed the order quantity of bulletproof vests and subsequent purchase intention".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report by POLITICO has a photo featuring two men, but the identity of the smiling customer isn't known. However, citing the customs records obtained, the report says that there's a fair chance he was Russian.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-downs-drone-after-russias-warning-of-retaliation-over-moscow-strike-619151">Russia strikes Kyiv for sixth time in a month after Ukrainian drones hit near its defence HQ</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The records apparently mentioned Russian buyers, who have declared orders for hundreds of thousands of bulletproof vests and helmets made by Shanghai H Win.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This report came weeks after it emerged that a Russian mercenary group received tens of thousands of protective helmets from China late last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In May, The Financial Times reported about&nbsp;the period of time when Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin was apparently raising a massive prisoner army to attack Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4b52e6f9-0766-4955-9e4f-5fcbb937853b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/China%20%284%29_0.png" /></p>

<p><em>Image shown in POLITICO.&nbsp;</em></p>

<h2><strong>China's peace plan to end war</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The report also contradicts the 12-point peace plan presented by China. Earlier this year, Beijing came up with a so-called political solution in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China said that it hopes to play a constructive role in resolving the geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine with the announcement of the peace plan in the form of a 12-point foreign ministry paper for a gradual de-escalation between the warring nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The move was vastly welcomed by the Western nations despite growing speculations that Beijing is mulling over sending "lethal aid" to Moscow for the Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/crackdown-on-putin-critics-navalnys-aide-imprisoned-for-extremist-organisation-619011">Crackdown on Putin critics: Navalny’s aide imprisoned for 'participating in an extremist' organisation</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Putin signs gender reassignment ban into law&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>China supplying equipment to Russia&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A few days back, French President Emmanuel Macron's top diplomatic adviser said China was delivering items that could be used as military equipment to Russia, although not on a massive scale.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Asked at the Aspen Security Forum last week on Thursday if the West had seen any evidence that China has armed Russia in any way in the war in Ukraine, Emmanuel Bonne told the moderator: "Yes, there are indications that they are doing things we would prefer them not to do."&nbsp;</p>

<p>News agency Reuters reported that Bonne is the head of Macron's diplomatic team at the Elysee Palace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When pressed on whether China was delivering weapons, Bonne said: "Well, kind of military equipment ... as far as we know they are not delivering massively military capacities to Russia but (we need that to be) no delivery."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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China again emerged to be at the centre of the Russia-Ukraine war as a report by POLITICO claimed that Beijing secretly sent gear to Russia, enough to equip an army.

China again emerged to be at the centre of the Russia-Ukraine war as a report by POLITICO claimed that Beijing secretly sent gear to Russia, enough to equip an army. The report mentioned that a tall Caucasian man was seen inspecting body armour in pictures posted on the Chinese company's website. Shanghai H Win, a manufacturer of military-grade protective gear, said on the official website in March that "this spring, one of our customers came to our company to confirm the style and quantity of bulletproof vests, and carefully tested the quality of our vests." The manufacturer of military-grade protective gear wrote on its website that the customer "immediately directly confirmed the order quantity of bulletproof vests and subsequent purchase intention". The report by POLITICO has a photo featuring two men, but the identity of the smiling customer isn't known. However, citing the customs records obtained, the report says that there's a fair chance he was Russian. Also read: Russia strikes Kyiv for sixth time in a month after Ukrainian drones hit near its defence HQ The records apparently mentioned Russian buyers, who have declared orders for hundreds of thousands of bulletproof vests and helmets made by Shanghai H Win. This report came weeks after it emerged that a Russian mercenary group received tens of thousands of protective helmets from China late last year. In May, The Financial Times reported about the period of time when Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin was apparently raising a massive prisoner army to attack Ukraine. Image shown in POLITICO. China's peace plan to end war The report also contradicts the 12-point peace plan presented by China. Earlier this year, Beijing came up with a so-called political solution in Ukraine. China said that it hopes to play a constructive role in resolving the geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine with the announcement of the peace plan in the form of a 12-point foreign ministry paper for a gradual de-escalation between the warring nations. The move was vastly welcomed by the Western nations despite growing speculations that Beijing is mulling over sending "lethal aid" to Moscow for the Ukraine war. Also read: Crackdown on Putin critics: Navalny’s aide imprisoned for 'participating in an extremist' organisation Watch: Putin signs gender reassignment ban into law × China supplying equipment to Russia A few days back, French President Emmanuel Macron's top diplomatic adviser said China was delivering items that could be used as military equipment to Russia, although not on a massive scale. Asked at the Aspen Security Forum last week on Thursday if the West had seen any evidence that China has armed Russia in any way in the war in Ukraine, Emmanuel Bonne told the moderator: "Yes, there are indications that they are doing things we would prefer them not to do." News agency Reuters reported that Bonne is the head of Macron's diplomatic team at the Elysee Palace. When pressed on whether China was delivering weapons, Bonne said: "Well, kind of military equipment ... as far as we know they are not delivering massively military capacities to Russia but (we need that to be) no delivery." (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.

Is Beijing helping Moscow by secretly supplying gear to the Russian army?

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<p>Russian special forces on Saturday (July 22) killed a man who broke&nbsp;into a private house in the suburbs of Moscow and fired at them. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the assailant was spotted by guards after he broke into an unoccupied house located in an elite village in Istra, about 45 kilometres west of Moscow. When two guards and a police officer entered the residence, the man, who was heavily armed, held them at gunpoint.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The negotiations with the attacker lasted for hours. The man claimed he came from the front lines in Ukraine and was driven by God to march on the Kremlin. He refused to surrender, fired at special forces and was killed when they stormed the house.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who is the attacker?</strong></h2>

<p>According to Russian lawmaker Alexander Khinshtein, the attacker was identified as Vyacheslav Chernenko, a 35-year-old resident of the Siberian city of Krasnoyarsk. It is not yet clear if Chernenko fought in the Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Istra administrator, meanwhile, said the attacker was mentally unstable.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who was the owner of the residence?</strong></h2>

<p>As per the report, the residence that Chernenko broke into belonged to Viktor Yanukovych, the former Moscow-friendly president of Ukraine. It had been put up for sale by its current owner, who was overseas when the incident happened.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Putin meets Lukashenko</h2>

<p>In other news from the Ukraine war, Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted his Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko for talks in St Petersburg on Sunday. Putin said that Ukraine's counteroffensive had failed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There is no counteroffensive," Russian news agencies quoted Lukashenko as saying. To this, Putin replied, "It exists, but it has failed."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian special forces on Saturday (July 22) killed a man who broke into a private house in the suburbs of Moscow and fired at them. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the assailant was spotted by guards after he broke into an unoccupied house located in an elite village in Istra, about 45 kilometres west of Moscow.

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

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

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday (July 21)&nbsp;the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target.&nbsp;"This is the route used to feed the war with ammunition and this is being done on a daily basis. And it militarises the Crimean peninsula," President Zelensky said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>North Korea fired&nbsp;several cruise missiles" into the Yellow Sea, situated between China and the Korean peninsula, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said on Saturday. The launches&nbsp;occurred at approximately 4 am (1900 GMT).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In other news, former United States president Donald Trump would face trial in the&nbsp;Mar-a-Lago classified document case.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-collision-course-expands-as-zelensky-calls-crimea-bridge-legitimate-military-target-618302"><strong>Russia-Ukraine collision course expands as Zelensky calls Crimea bridge 'legitimate military target'</strong></a></p>

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<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (July 21) said that the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target.&nbsp;On Monday, two civilians were killed and a part of the road bridge was out of service after explosions took place on the Crimea bridge.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-cruise-missiles-into-sea-amid-silence-on-us-soldiers-border-crossing-618298"><strong>North Korea fires cruise missiles into sea amid silence on US soldier's border crossing</strong></a></p>

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<p>South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff stated&nbsp;on Saturday (July 21), that North Korea fired "several cruise missiles" into the Yellow Sea, situated between China and the Korean peninsula. The launches occurred at approximately 4 am (1900 GMT), intensifying already strained relations between the two Koreas.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/classified-documents-case-trump-to-face-trial-in-the-thick-of-2024-us-elections-618309"><strong>Classified documents case: Trump's threat on being imprisoned in spotlight after release of trial date</strong></a></p>

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<p>The trial against former US president and Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump in Mar-a-Lago classified document case will take place in the thick of US presidential elections next year. The supposed trial may very well put Trump into prison, sections of US media have reported, following which Trump's purported threat about what may happen if he is imprisoned has attained centerstage.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-first-president-biden-chooses-female-admiral-to-lead-us-navy-618286">In a first, President Biden chooses female admiral to lead US Navy</a></strong></p>

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<p>President Joe Biden made a groundbreaking announcement, revealing his nomination of Admiral Lisa Franchetti to become the head of the US Navy. If confirmed, Admiral Franchetti will become the first woman to hold this esteemed position and also serve on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, marking a significant milestone for gender representation in the US military.<br />
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<p><strong>Watch | Sharks react to cocaine in a similar fashion like humans: Study</strong></p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday (July 21) the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday (July 21) the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target. "This is the route used to feed the war with ammunition and this is being done on a daily basis. And it militarises the Crimean peninsula," President Zelensky said. North Korea fired several cruise missiles" into the Yellow Sea, situated between China and the Korean peninsula, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said on Saturday. The launches occurred at approximately 4 am (1900 GMT). In other news, former United States president Donald Trump would face trial in the Mar-a-Lago classified document case. Click on the headlines to read more: Russia-Ukraine collision course expands as Zelensky calls Crimea bridge 'legitimate military target' Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (July 21) said that the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target. On Monday, two civilians were killed and a part of the road bridge was out of service after explosions took place on the Crimea bridge. North Korea fires cruise missiles into sea amid silence on US soldier's border crossing South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff stated on Saturday (July 21), that North Korea fired "several cruise missiles" into the Yellow Sea, situated between China and the Korean peninsula. The launches occurred at approximately 4 am (1900 GMT), intensifying already strained relations between the two Koreas. Classified documents case: Trump's threat on being imprisoned in spotlight after release of trial date The trial against former US president and Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump in Mar-a-Lago classified document case will take place in the thick of US presidential elections next year. The supposed trial may very well put Trump into prison, sections of US media have reported, following which Trump's purported threat about what may happen if he is imprisoned has attained centerstage. In a first, President Biden chooses female admiral to lead US Navy President Joe Biden made a groundbreaking announcement, revealing his nomination of Admiral Lisa Franchetti to become the head of the US Navy. If confirmed, Admiral Franchetti will become the first woman to hold this esteemed position and also serve on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, marking a significant milestone for gender representation in the US military. Watch | Sharks react to cocaine in a similar fashion like humans: Study ×

Morning brief: Ukraine war updates, North Korea fires cruise missiles into Yellow Sea, and more

<p>Some of the weapons supplied by the United States and its allies to Ukraine were stolen by criminals, purported volunteer fighters and arms traffickers, a report from the US defence department's inspector general published by CNN has revealed.</p>

<p>The weapons&nbsp;were originally meant to aid Ukraine's war-effort against Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report, titled, 'DoD's Accountability of Equipment Provided to Ukraine',&nbsp;further claims that the stolen weaponry and equipment were later recovered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report claims that between February to September 2022, Washington faced challenges in tracking and monitoring all the US equipment sent to Ukraine. The Arms Export Control Act in the United States requires Washington to track its defence supplies to the countries.</p>

<p>The US defence department's inability to visit the areas where the equipment was being used or stored significantly hindered their ability to monitor the situation effectively, the report argued. The US resumed on-site inspections of weapons given to Ukraine with tracking systems.</p>

<h2><strong>US supply of weapons to Ukraine: What Washington deems as potential risk?</strong></h2>

<p>The report acknowledged that sending weapons to aid Ukraine's war-effort entails the risk of potential&nbsp;diversion, especially if territory changes hands during the course of war.</p>

<p>The Republican Party has criticised the Biden administration for the purported&nbsp;lack of accountability about the billions of dollars of aid provided to Ukraine.</p>

<h2><b>Russia-Ukraine war: When US weapons were stolen</b></h2>

<p>The report revealed instances when&nbsp;organisations deemed terrorist organisations by Russia and arms traffickers successfully stole weapons and equipment provided by the US and its allies.</p>

<p>For example, an organised crime group reportedly overseen by an unnamed Russian official used forged documents to steal weapons and ammunition. Similarly, Ukrainian criminals posed as aid workers to steal bulletproof vests.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Report: Kyiv can't account for 'hundreds of millions' in weapons | Russia-Ukraine War</strong></p>

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<p>The report only revealed the instances in which the Ukraine's intelligence services purportedly&nbsp;intervened and disrupted the arms stealing plots.</p>

<p>Overall, while larger items like missiles and helicopters were easier to track through intelligence mechanisms, smaller items, such as night-vision devices, posed more significant monitoring challenges.</p>

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Some of the weapons supplied by the United States and its allies to Ukraine were stolen by criminals, purported volunteer fighters and arms traffickers, a report from the US defence department's inspector general published by CNN has revealed.

Some of the weapons supplied by the United States and its allies to Ukraine were stolen by criminals, purported volunteer fighters and arms traffickers, a report from the US defence department's inspector general published by CNN has revealed. The weapons were originally meant to aid Ukraine's war-effort against Russia. The report, titled, 'DoD's Accountability of Equipment Provided to Ukraine', further claims that the stolen weaponry and equipment were later recovered. The report claims that between February to September 2022, Washington faced challenges in tracking and monitoring all the US equipment sent to Ukraine. The Arms Export Control Act in the United States requires Washington to track its defence supplies to the countries. The US defence department's inability to visit the areas where the equipment was being used or stored significantly hindered their ability to monitor the situation effectively, the report argued. The US resumed on-site inspections of weapons given to Ukraine with tracking systems. US supply of weapons to Ukraine: What Washington deems as potential risk? The report acknowledged that sending weapons to aid Ukraine's war-effort entails the risk of potential diversion, especially if territory changes hands during the course of war. The Republican Party has criticised the Biden administration for the purported lack of accountability about the billions of dollars of aid provided to Ukraine. Russia-Ukraine war: When US weapons were stolen The report revealed instances when organisations deemed terrorist organisations by Russia and arms traffickers successfully stole weapons and equipment provided by the US and its allies. For example, an organised crime group reportedly overseen by an unnamed Russian official used forged documents to steal weapons and ammunition. Similarly, Ukrainian criminals posed as aid workers to steal bulletproof vests. Also watch | Report: Kyiv can't account for 'hundreds of millions' in weapons | Russia-Ukraine War × The report only revealed the instances in which the Ukraine's intelligence services purportedly intervened and disrupted the arms stealing plots. Overall, while larger items like missiles and helicopters were easier to track through intelligence mechanisms, smaller items, such as night-vision devices, posed more significant monitoring challenges. 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.

How weapons sent by West got stolen in Ukraine, Pentagon report reveals

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<p>Health experts have expressed concerns that a new measles outbreak could occur in Ukraine if hundreds of thousands of unvaccinated children return to schools in September, a report by Euronews on Thursday (July 20) said. Ukraine has been a measles hotspot in the past, and vaccine scepticism and supply interruptions led to a large outbreak in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the health ministry, only 74 per cent of children aged 1 and 69 per cent of children aged 6 received their first and second measles vaccination in 2022. Children who are unvaccinated between the ages of 2-17 will be headed towards classrooms where the risk of contagion is much higher.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Around 260,000 kids need to be vaccinated: Minister</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this week, Ukraine's Deputy Health Minister Ihor Kuzin said that the ministry and the centres for immunisation constantly monitor the contagion risks, and the highest risk right now is a measles outbreak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The first measles explosion in Ukraine happened over the 2017-2019 period and was a massive outbreak that the government was trying to mitigate. Around 115,000 children contracted the disease at the time,” Kuzin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that around 260,000 children need to be vaccinated, and until that is done, the country is facing the risk of a massive outbreak. “So until 1 September, when school starts, these children need to get vaccinated,” the deputy health minister further said and urged people to get vaccinated in the next month and a half.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, the World Health Organization (WHO) said that Ukraine had become more vulnerable to contagious diseases following the launch of the special military operation by Russia in February 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vusala Allahverdiyeva, an expert on Disease Prevention And Immunisation at the WHO, said, "When the Russian invasion of Ukraine began, we realised that the biggest health risks in the country were diphtheria and measles outbreaks."</p>

<h2><strong>UNICEF delivers 657,000 vaccine doses to Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Nearly a week back, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) delivered another 657,000 doses of the combination measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine (MMR) to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Muhammad Tariq Iqbal, a Ukraine Immunisation Specialist at UNICEF, said on July 17<strong>,&nbsp;</strong>"If your child missed the routine calendar shots, you need to catch up. UNICEF has delivered these vaccines to Ukraine."</p>

<p>Two doses of the MMR vaccine, given at 12 months and six years old, provide effective protection against measles.</p>

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Health experts have expressed concerns that a new measles outbreak could occur in Ukraine if hundreds of thousands of unvaccinated children return to schools in September, a report by Euronews on Thursday (July 20) said.

Health experts have expressed concerns that a new measles outbreak could occur in Ukraine if hundreds of thousands of unvaccinated children return to schools in September, a report by Euronews on Thursday (July 20) said. Ukraine has been a measles hotspot in the past, and vaccine scepticism and supply interruptions led to a large outbreak in 2019. As per the health ministry, only 74 per cent of children aged 1 and 69 per cent of children aged 6 received their first and second measles vaccination in 2022. Children who are unvaccinated between the ages of 2-17 will be headed towards classrooms where the risk of contagion is much higher. Around 260,000 kids need to be vaccinated: Minister Earlier this week, Ukraine's Deputy Health Minister Ihor Kuzin said that the ministry and the centres for immunisation constantly monitor the contagion risks, and the highest risk right now is a measles outbreak. “The first measles explosion in Ukraine happened over the 2017-2019 period and was a massive outbreak that the government was trying to mitigate. Around 115,000 children contracted the disease at the time,” Kuzin said. He added that around 260,000 children need to be vaccinated, and until that is done, the country is facing the risk of a massive outbreak. “So until 1 September, when school starts, these children need to get vaccinated,” the deputy health minister further said and urged people to get vaccinated in the next month and a half. Earlier, the World Health Organization (WHO) said that Ukraine had become more vulnerable to contagious diseases following the launch of the special military operation by Russia in February 2022. Vusala Allahverdiyeva, an expert on Disease Prevention And Immunisation at the WHO, said, "When the Russian invasion of Ukraine began, we realised that the biggest health risks in the country were diphtheria and measles outbreaks." UNICEF delivers 657,000 vaccine doses to Ukraine Nearly a week back, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) delivered another 657,000 doses of the combination measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine (MMR) to Ukraine. Muhammad Tariq Iqbal, a Ukraine Immunisation Specialist at UNICEF, said on July 17, "If your child missed the routine calendar shots, you need to catch up. UNICEF has delivered these vaccines to Ukraine." Two doses of the MMR vaccine, given at 12 months and six years old, provide effective protection against measles. 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.

War-torn Ukraine faces risk of new measles outbreak, warn health experts

<p>Igor Girkin, prominent pro-war Russian nationalist was detained in Moscow on Friday (July 22). Girkin has previously accused Russian President Vladimir Putin and army leaders of not conducting the Ukraine war harshly or effectively enough. He now faces charges of inciting extremism.</p>

<p>The move suggests authorities have wearied of his criticism of what they call Russia's "special military operation", and perhaps that of other loud nationalist voices who had appeared to have an exceptional licence to deride the war effort.</p>

<p>The action against Girkin has come weeks after a short-lived mutiny by another outspoken critic, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner Group chief. Progozhin is still free but now has sharply curtailed his verbal attacks.</p>

<p>Prosecutors from the Federal Security Service (FSB) security service asked Moscow's Meshchansky district court to remand Girkin in custody on a charge with a maximum sentence of five years in prison, state news agencies TASS and RIA Novosti reported.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Ukraine forces struggle to counter Russia's 'Oink' missile</strong></p>

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<p>Girkin, who is a former battlefield commander is also known as Igor Strelkov. He was involved in Russian annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. He then organised pro-Russian militias who have been instrumental in wresting part of eastern Ukraine out of Kyiv's control.</p>

<p>A Dutch court handed Girkin a life sentence in absentia in 2022 for his alleged role in shooting down of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over eastern Ukraine in 2014, with the loss of 298 passengers and crew.</p>

<p>Girkin was seen standing almost motionless in a glass cage with arms folded, in footage from the court posted by the popular Telegram channel Shot.</p>

<p>He is regarded by many to be untouchable due to his ties with the authorities. But in recent months, he had become more outspoken in recent months.</p>

<p>Asked at the time if he was naive to think he could launch a political movement without the assent of the Kremlin, he said: "I hope you would not call me a naive person."</p>

<h2><strong>Attack on Putin</strong></h2>

<p>In one of his tirades on July 18, one of his most outspoken ones, Girkin made a post and peppered Putin with personal insults and urged&nbsp;him to transfer power "to someone truly capable and responsible". The post was read by over 760,000 people.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-warns-poland-will-act-to-agression-against-belarus-618183">Russian President Vladimir Putin warns Poland: ‘Will act to aggression against Belarus’</a></strong></p>

<p>In a message posted on Girkin's official Telegram account, his wife, Miroslava Reginskaya, said:&nbsp;"Today, at about 11:30 a.m., representatives of the Investigative Committee came to our house. I was not at home. Soon, according to the concierge, they took my husband out by his arms and in an unknown direction."</p>

<p>She further said that friends told her Girkin had been charged with extremism.</p>

<p>"I do not know anything about my husband's whereabouts, he has not contacted me," she said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Igor Girkin, prominent pro-war Russian nationalist was detained in Moscow on Friday (July 22). Girkin has previously accused Russian President Vladimir Putin and army leaders of not conducting the Ukraine war harshly or effectively enough.

Igor Girkin, prominent pro-war Russian nationalist was detained in Moscow on Friday (July 22). Girkin has previously accused Russian President Vladimir Putin and army leaders of not conducting the Ukraine war harshly or effectively enough. He now faces charges of inciting extremism. The move suggests authorities have wearied of his criticism of what they call Russia's "special military operation", and perhaps that of other loud nationalist voices who had appeared to have an exceptional licence to deride the war effort. The action against Girkin has come weeks after a short-lived mutiny by another outspoken critic, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner Group chief. Progozhin is still free but now has sharply curtailed his verbal attacks. Prosecutors from the Federal Security Service (FSB) security service asked Moscow's Meshchansky district court to remand Girkin in custody on a charge with a maximum sentence of five years in prison, state news agencies TASS and RIA Novosti reported. Watch | Ukraine forces struggle to counter Russia's 'Oink' missile × Girkin, who is a former battlefield commander is also known as Igor Strelkov. He was involved in Russian annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. He then organised pro-Russian militias who have been instrumental in wresting part of eastern Ukraine out of Kyiv's control. A Dutch court handed Girkin a life sentence in absentia in 2022 for his alleged role in shooting down of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over eastern Ukraine in 2014, with the loss of 298 passengers and crew. Girkin was seen standing almost motionless in a glass cage with arms folded, in footage from the court posted by the popular Telegram channel Shot. He is regarded by many to be untouchable due to his ties with the authorities. But in recent months, he had become more outspoken in recent months. Asked at the time if he was naive to think he could launch a political movement without the assent of the Kremlin, he said: "I hope you would not call me a naive person." Attack on Putin In one of his tirades on July 18, one of his most outspoken ones, Girkin made a post and peppered Putin with personal insults and urged him to transfer power "to someone truly capable and responsible". The post was read by over 760,000 people. Also Read | Russian President Vladimir Putin warns Poland: ‘Will act to aggression against Belarus’ In a message posted on Girkin's official Telegram account, his wife, Miroslava Reginskaya, said: "Today, at about 11:30 a.m., representatives of the Investigative Committee came to our house. I was not at home. Soon, according to the concierge, they took my husband out by his arms and in an unknown direction." She further said that friends told her Girkin had been charged with extremism. "I do not know anything about my husband's whereabouts, he has not contacted me," she said. (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 ×

Pro-war nationalist charged with inciting extremism after tirade against Putin

<p>Head of French President Emmanuel Macron's Elysee Palace diplomatic team has said that China was delivering items to Russia which could be used as military equipment by the latter. However, he said that such a supply was not on a massive scale.</p>

<p>Emmanuel Bonne, President Macron's adviser, was asked during Aspen Security Forum if the West had seen any evidence that China had armed Russia for Ukraine war in any way.</p>

<p>"Yes, there are indications that they are doing things we would prefer them not to do," he told the moderator late on Thursday (July 20).</p>

<p>When he was asked whether China was delivering weapons, he said: "Well, kind of military equipment ... as far as we know they are not delivering massively military capacities to Russia but (we need that to be) no delivery."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Ukraine forces struggle to counter Russia's 'Oink' missile</strong></p>

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<p>French officials told CNN that Bonne was referencing both dual-use technologies and non-lethal assistance, such as helmets and body armour.</p>

<p>Reuters reported that there was no immediate comment from the White House or Macron's office.</p>

<p>Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. China has been repeatedly maintaining that it is not sending military equipment to Russia. There was no comment from Chinese embassy in Paris on Bonne's statement.</p>

<p>Bonne reportedly doesn't speak on record with media often by regularly briefs reporters on background. During President Macron's China trip in April, Bonne was part of Macron's diplomatic delegation. He has been Macron's point of contact with top Chinese officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What we need most is Chinese abstention." Bonne said. "We need them to understand that Ukraine is a conflict of global magnitude and that we cannot afford Ukraine to lose for reasons of principle, but also for reasons which are very operational."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-warns-poland-will-act-to-agression-against-belarus-618183">Russian President Vladimir Putin warns Poland: ‘Will act to aggression against Belarus’</a></strong></p>

<p>Bonne was asked what things China shouldn't do. "The delivery of weapons certainly, economic support," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>China-Russia joint exercise</strong></h2>

<p>Naval and air forces of China and Russia kicked off a joint exercise in the Sea of Japan on Thursday (July 20).</p>

<p>The Northern/Interaction-2023 joint exercise marks second time Russia is participating in an annual Chinese exercise. It is also the first time Russia has sent both, naval and air forces to participate in the exercise.</p>

<p>The theme of the joint exercise this time is "safeguarding the security of strategic maritime routes".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The joint exercise main includes naval and air escort, deterrence and expulsion, and anchorage defense drills to further enhance the coordination capabilities of both militaries to jointly maintain regional peace and stability.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Head of French President Emmanuel Macron's Elysee Palace diplomatic team has said that China was delivering items to Russia which could be used as military equipment by the latter.

Head of French President Emmanuel Macron's Elysee Palace diplomatic team has said that China was delivering items to Russia which could be used as military equipment by the latter. However, he said that such a supply was not on a massive scale. Emmanuel Bonne, President Macron's adviser, was asked during Aspen Security Forum if the West had seen any evidence that China had armed Russia for Ukraine war in any way. "Yes, there are indications that they are doing things we would prefer them not to do," he told the moderator late on Thursday (July 20). When he was asked whether China was delivering weapons, he said: "Well, kind of military equipment ... as far as we know they are not delivering massively military capacities to Russia but (we need that to be) no delivery." Watch | Ukraine forces struggle to counter Russia's 'Oink' missile × French officials told CNN that Bonne was referencing both dual-use technologies and non-lethal assistance, such as helmets and body armour. Reuters reported that there was no immediate comment from the White House or Macron's office. Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. China has been repeatedly maintaining that it is not sending military equipment to Russia. There was no comment from Chinese embassy in Paris on Bonne's statement. Bonne reportedly doesn't speak on record with media often by regularly briefs reporters on background. During President Macron's China trip in April, Bonne was part of Macron's diplomatic delegation. He has been Macron's point of contact with top Chinese officials. "What we need most is Chinese abstention." Bonne said. "We need them to understand that Ukraine is a conflict of global magnitude and that we cannot afford Ukraine to lose for reasons of principle, but also for reasons which are very operational." Also Read | Russian President Vladimir Putin warns Poland: ‘Will act to aggression against Belarus’ Bonne was asked what things China shouldn't do. "The delivery of weapons certainly, economic support," he said. China-Russia joint exercise Naval and air forces of China and Russia kicked off a joint exercise in the Sea of Japan on Thursday (July 20). The Northern/Interaction-2023 joint exercise marks second time Russia is participating in an annual Chinese exercise. It is also the first time Russia has sent both, naval and air forces to participate in the exercise. The theme of the joint exercise this time is "safeguarding the security of strategic maritime routes". The joint exercise main includes naval and air escort, deterrence and expulsion, and anchorage defense drills to further enhance the coordination capabilities of both militaries to jointly maintain regional peace and stability. (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 ×

China is providing equipment to Russia it shouldn't: French diplomat

<p>Russia's invasion of Ukraine started last year in February and left a significant impact on people and economies worldwide. New developments in the recent pose the threat of the war spreading&nbsp;and engulfing some more nations. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid the nations facing the threat&nbsp;is Poland, which is getting impacted due to the reported presence of Wagner mercenaries on its border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>State-run news agency PAP quoted its secretary Zbigniew Hoffmann as saying on Friday that Poland's security committee decided in a meeting on Wednesday to move military units to the country's east due to the Wagner Group's presence in Belarus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite claims that Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin has flown back to Russia, in a video on Wednesday, he was shown welcoming his fighters to Belarus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was also seen telling them that they would take no further part in the Ukraine war for now and that they have&nbsp;to gather their strength for Africa while they trained the Belarusian army.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-russian-missiles-strike-odesa-grain-warehouses-618072">Ukraine says Russian missiles strike Odesa grain warehouses</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Belarusian defence ministry said on Thursday that the Wagner mercenaries had started to train Belarusian special forces at a military range just a few miles from the border with NATO member Poland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Analysts have previously noted that any attack on a NATO member will be retaliated by the alliance as it is founded on the principle of collective defence, meaning that if one NATO ally is attacked, then all NATO allies are deemed to have been attacked.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They will attempt peace talks but if diplomatic efforts fail, it has the military power to undertake crisis-management operations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zbigniew Hoffmann told PAP: "Training or joint exercises of the Belarusian army and the Wagner Group is undoubtedly a provocation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Committee analysed possible threats, such as the dislocation of Wagner Group units. Therefore, the Minister of National Defense, chairman of the Committee, Mariusz Blaszczak, decided to move our military formations from the west to the east of Poland," Hoffmann added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-starts-firing-cluster-munitions-against-russian-forces-amid-criticism-617861">Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Military drone crashes in southwestern Poland&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The private broadcaster RMF FM reported on Friday that a military reconnaissance drone crashed in southwestern Poland late on Tuesday. &nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the broadcaster, the drone was found in woods near the village of Trzebien after a passer-by called emergency services to say he had seen an object crashing in the area, RMF reported. The area where the drone fell is near a military training facility,&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Russia's invasion of Ukraine started last year in February and left a significant impact on people and economies worldwide. New developments in the recent pose the threat of the war spreading and engulfing some more nations.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine started last year in February and left a significant impact on people and economies worldwide. New developments in the recent pose the threat of the war spreading and engulfing some more nations. Amid the nations facing the threat is Poland, which is getting impacted due to the reported presence of Wagner mercenaries on its border. State-run news agency PAP quoted its secretary Zbigniew Hoffmann as saying on Friday that Poland's security committee decided in a meeting on Wednesday to move military units to the country's east due to the Wagner Group's presence in Belarus. Despite claims that Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin has flown back to Russia, in a video on Wednesday, he was shown welcoming his fighters to Belarus. He was also seen telling them that they would take no further part in the Ukraine war for now and that they have to gather their strength for Africa while they trained the Belarusian army. Also read: Ukraine says Russian missiles strike Odesa grain warehouses The Belarusian defence ministry said on Thursday that the Wagner mercenaries had started to train Belarusian special forces at a military range just a few miles from the border with NATO member Poland. Analysts have previously noted that any attack on a NATO member will be retaliated by the alliance as it is founded on the principle of collective defence, meaning that if one NATO ally is attacked, then all NATO allies are deemed to have been attacked. They will attempt peace talks but if diplomatic efforts fail, it has the military power to undertake crisis-management operations. Zbigniew Hoffmann told PAP: "Training or joint exercises of the Belarusian army and the Wagner Group is undoubtedly a provocation." "The Committee analysed possible threats, such as the dislocation of Wagner Group units. Therefore, the Minister of National Defense, chairman of the Committee, Mariusz Blaszczak, decided to move our military formations from the west to the east of Poland," Hoffmann added. Watch this report: × Also read: Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism Military drone crashes in southwestern Poland The private broadcaster RMF FM reported on Friday that a military reconnaissance drone crashed in southwestern Poland late on Tuesday. According to the broadcaster, the drone was found in woods near the village of Trzebien after a passer-by called emergency services to say he had seen an object crashing in the area, RMF reported. The area where the drone fell is near a military training facility, (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.

Will Ukraine war expand to other regions? Poland moving troops over Wagner risk from Belarus

<p>Ukraine claimed on Friday (July 20) that the Russian missiles hit grain terminals of an agricultural enterprise in the southern Odesa region. The regional governor said that the strikes injured two people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said on the Telegram messaging app, "Unfortunately, the grain terminals of an agricultural enterprise in the Odesa region were hit. The enemy destroyed 100 tons of peas and 20 tons of barley."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The strike came as Russia's attack on the southern port city for the fourth consecutive night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Oleh Kiper, head of the Odesa regional military administration said in a Telegram post Friday that the attacks were carried out with Kalibr missiles fired from the Black Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-starts-firing-cluster-munitions-against-russian-forces-amid-criticism-617861">Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Concerns have been raising over global food security after Russia suspended its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This emerged as a massive food security threat amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, which has already pushed the world into crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Officials said that one person was killed in strikes on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday that Russia had already launched nearly 70 missiles into Ukraine this week.</p>

<p>Zelensky said that almost 90 Iranian-made 'Shahed' drones were loitering munitions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The series of drone attacks on southern and eastern Ukraine came after the attacks on a bridge linking Russia to the Crimean Peninsula on Monday (July 17). Russia had said that it will retaliate.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Wagner mercenaries train Belarus special forces near Poland&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-deploying-more-warships-marines-in-west-asia-amid-iranian-aggression-618058">US deploying more warships, Marines in West Asia amid Iranian aggression</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Russian navy carried out live fire 'exercise' in Black Sea</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Moscow's defence ministry said Friday that Russia's navy carried out a live fire "exercise" in the Black Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, Kremlin said that it would consider ships travelling to Ukraine through the waterway as potential military targets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia's defence ministry said on Telegram that a missile boat from Moscow's Black Sea Fleet "carried out live firing of anti-ship cruise missiles at the target ship" in the northwestern part of the Black Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added that the target ship was "destroyed as a result of a missile strike". The ships and fleet aviation had also "worked out actions to isolate the area temporarily closed to navigation, and also carried out a set of measures to detain the offending ship".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Ukraine claimed on Friday (July 20) that the Russian missiles hit grain terminals of an agricultural enterprise in the southern Odesa region. The regional governor said that the strikes injured two people.

Ukraine claimed on Friday (July 20) that the Russian missiles hit grain terminals of an agricultural enterprise in the southern Odesa region. The regional governor said that the strikes injured two people. He said on the Telegram messaging app, "Unfortunately, the grain terminals of an agricultural enterprise in the Odesa region were hit. The enemy destroyed 100 tons of peas and 20 tons of barley." The strike came as Russia's attack on the southern port city for the fourth consecutive night. Oleh Kiper, head of the Odesa regional military administration said in a Telegram post Friday that the attacks were carried out with Kalibr missiles fired from the Black Sea. Also read: Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism Concerns have been raising over global food security after Russia suspended its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal. This emerged as a massive food security threat amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, which has already pushed the world into crisis. Officials said that one person was killed in strikes on Thursday. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday that Russia had already launched nearly 70 missiles into Ukraine this week. Zelensky said that almost 90 Iranian-made 'Shahed' drones were loitering munitions. The series of drone attacks on southern and eastern Ukraine came after the attacks on a bridge linking Russia to the Crimean Peninsula on Monday (July 17). Russia had said that it will retaliate. Watch: Wagner mercenaries train Belarus special forces near Poland × Also read: US deploying more warships, Marines in West Asia amid Iranian aggression Russian navy carried out live fire 'exercise' in Black Sea Moscow's defence ministry said Friday that Russia's navy carried out a live fire "exercise" in the Black Sea. Recently, Kremlin said that it would consider ships travelling to Ukraine through the waterway as potential military targets. Russia's defence ministry said on Telegram that a missile boat from Moscow's Black Sea Fleet "carried out live firing of anti-ship cruise missiles at the target ship" in the northwestern part of the Black Sea. It added that the target ship was "destroyed as a result of a missile strike". The ships and fleet aviation had also "worked out actions to isolate the area temporarily closed to navigation, and also carried out a set of measures to detain the offending ship". Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine says Russian missiles strike Odesa grain warehouses

<p>Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday (July 19) that it would deem all ships travelling to Ukrainian ports to be carriers of military cargo. It added that countries the flag of which would potentially fly on the ships will be considered to be party to the conflict on the Ukrainian side. Russia has taken this stance after its decision this week to pull out of the United Nations-brokered Black Sea grain import deal. This deal had previously guaranteed the safety of Ukrainian exports for the past one year.</p>

<p>"In connection with the termination of the Black Sea Initiative and the end of the maritime humanitarian corridor, from 00.00 Moscow time on July 20, 2023 (2100 GMT on Wednesday) all ships proceeding to Ukrainian ports in Black Sea waters will be considered as potential carriers of military cargo," the ministry said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | BRICS Summit 2023: FM Lavrov to represent Russia at the Summit</strong></p>

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<p>The ministry also said that Russia was also declaring southeastern and northwestern parts of the Black Sea's international waters to be temporarily unsafe for navigation. The ministry did not give details about the parts of the sea which would be affected.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin stikes conciliatory tone</strong></h2>

<p>Just when Russian Defence Ministry appeared to raise stakes, Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared to strike a conciliatory tone. He said that Russia can 'consider' returning to the grain deal if Russia's demands are "fully met".</p>

<p>"The continuation of the grain deal in its current form has lost all meaning," Putin said at a government meeting, "of course we will consider the possibility of returning to it -- but only under one condition: if all principles under which Russia agreed to participate in the deal are fully taken into account and fulfilled."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Spike in wheat prices</strong></h2>

<p>Wheat prices rose on the same day Russia said it was ceasing its participation in the grain deal. There was 3 per cent increase in wheat futures. The prices hit a high of 689.25 cents per bushel. The prices remained well below the peak they reached in May last year. The price at that time was 1177.5 cents per bushel.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia attacked grain infrastructure, accuses Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday (July 19), Ukraine accused Russia of attacking grain infrastructure during overnight strikes that were aimed at two of Ukraine's Black Sea ports. Ukraine said it will not be intimidated from working to keep grain exports moving out of them.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-boss-yevgeny-prigozhin-seen-first-time-in-public-post-failed-coup-attempt-617578">Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin seen first time in public post failed coup attempt</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia has as of now, attacked the Odesa region for second consecutive night</p>

<p>"Russian terrorists absolutely deliberately targeted the infrastructure of the grain deal," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on the Telegram messaging app. "Every Russian missile - is a strike not only on Ukraine but on everyone in the world who wants normal and safe life."</p>

<p>Due to its significant grains exports, Ukraine is often called 'breadbasket of the world'. After Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. The grain exports were impeded. This had raised the spectre of a global food crisis.</p>

<p>Turkey and the United Nations then brokered a deal between Ukraine and Russia. The Black Sea grain deal was intended to facilitate Russian and Ukrainian agricultural exports. The deal expired on July 17. Russia declined to renew its participation.</p>

<p>There has been a constant complaint from Moscow that a parallel deal to ease rules for Russian exports of food and fertilisers was not being implemented. Kyiv has called for security guarantees to allow shipping to resume without Russian participation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday (July 19) that it would deem all ships travelling to Ukrainian ports to be carriers of military cargo. It added that countries the flag of which would potentially fly on the ships will be considered to be party to the conflict on the Ukrainian side.

Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday (July 19) that it would deem all ships travelling to Ukrainian ports to be carriers of military cargo. It added that countries the flag of which would potentially fly on the ships will be considered to be party to the conflict on the Ukrainian side. Russia has taken this stance after its decision this week to pull out of the United Nations-brokered Black Sea grain import deal. This deal had previously guaranteed the safety of Ukrainian exports for the past one year. "In connection with the termination of the Black Sea Initiative and the end of the maritime humanitarian corridor, from 00.00 Moscow time on July 20, 2023 (2100 GMT on Wednesday) all ships proceeding to Ukrainian ports in Black Sea waters will be considered as potential carriers of military cargo," the ministry said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app. Watch | BRICS Summit 2023: FM Lavrov to represent Russia at the Summit × The ministry also said that Russia was also declaring southeastern and northwestern parts of the Black Sea's international waters to be temporarily unsafe for navigation. The ministry did not give details about the parts of the sea which would be affected. Putin stikes conciliatory tone Just when Russian Defence Ministry appeared to raise stakes, Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared to strike a conciliatory tone. He said that Russia can 'consider' returning to the grain deal if Russia's demands are "fully met". "The continuation of the grain deal in its current form has lost all meaning," Putin said at a government meeting, "of course we will consider the possibility of returning to it -- but only under one condition: if all principles under which Russia agreed to participate in the deal are fully taken into account and fulfilled." Spike in wheat prices Wheat prices rose on the same day Russia said it was ceasing its participation in the grain deal. There was 3 per cent increase in wheat futures. The prices hit a high of 689.25 cents per bushel. The prices remained well below the peak they reached in May last year. The price at that time was 1177.5 cents per bushel. Russia attacked grain infrastructure, accuses Ukraine On Wednesday (July 19), Ukraine accused Russia of attacking grain infrastructure during overnight strikes that were aimed at two of Ukraine's Black Sea ports. Ukraine said it will not be intimidated from working to keep grain exports moving out of them. Also Read | Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin seen first time in public post failed coup attempt Russia has as of now, attacked the Odesa region for second consecutive night "Russian terrorists absolutely deliberately targeted the infrastructure of the grain deal," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on the Telegram messaging app. "Every Russian missile - is a strike not only on Ukraine but on everyone in the world who wants normal and safe life." Due to its significant grains exports, Ukraine is often called 'breadbasket of the world'. After Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. The grain exports were impeded. This had raised the spectre of a global food crisis. Turkey and the United Nations then brokered a deal between Ukraine and Russia. The Black Sea grain deal was intended to facilitate Russian and Ukrainian agricultural exports. The deal expired on July 17. Russia declined to renew its participation. There has been a constant complaint from Moscow that a parallel deal to ease rules for Russian exports of food and fertilisers was not being implemented. Kyiv has called for security guarantees to allow shipping to resume without Russian participation. (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 ×

Blow hot blow cold? Putin sounds conciliatory but defence ministry raises stakes on grain ships

<p>Ukrainian authorities claimed early Thursday (July 20) that nine people were injured, including five children, after a Russian strike on the Ukrainian port city of Mykolaiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Telegram, local governor Vitaliy Kim wrote that "Russians hit the city centre. A garage and a three-story residential building are on fire."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kim said that a three-year-old and a child less than a year old were among the injured, their condition is not known yet. He didn't provide details about the strike.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Ukraine's air force had announced an air alert for Mykolaiv and other regions. The city's mayor Oleksandr Senkevych wrote on Telegram: "There is a huge hole in the ground near a three-story residential building."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-consider-ukraine-bound-ships-to-be-carrying-military-cargo-617577">Blow hot blow cold? Putin sounds conciliatory but defence ministry raises stakes on grain ships</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>He said that emergency services were working at the site and "at least five residential high-rise buildings were damaged". He added that at another address "several garages" were on fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mykolaiv is located on the Black Sea, about 170 kilometres from Moscow-annexed Crimea and has often been targeted by Moscow during the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kim said on Tuesday that an "industrial facility" in the city had been targeted in a strike launched hours after the Kremlin failed to renew a pact allowing Ukraine's grain exports to be safe. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-boss-yevgeny-prigozhin-seen-first-time-in-public-post-failed-coup-attempt-617578">Wagner Group boss Yevgeny Prigozhin seen first time in public post failed coup</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Attack on Odesa</strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian authorities also said that Russia attacked the southern port city of Odesa for the third night in a row as the region's military administration Oleh Kiper said in a post on Telegram that at least two people were injured in the attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian air force said early Thursday that at least eight Russian Tu-22M3 aircraft were "flying in the direction of the Black Sea."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Ukrainian president aide admits counteroffensive will take long</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Russia captures railway station&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In another development, the Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday that its forces had captured Movchanove railway station in Ukraine's northeastern Kharkiv region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine, which reclaimed much of the territory last September, warned this week that Russia was again on the attack in the region, with "heavy fighting" taking place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ministry spokesperson Igor Konashenkov said that Russian forces also launched strikes on military-industrial sites, a fuel and ammunition store in Odesa, and a Ukrainian Air Force air base in the Kirovogradska region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukrainian authorities claimed early Thursday (July 20) that nine people were injured, including five children, after a Russian strike on the Ukrainian port city of Mykolaiv.

Ukrainian authorities claimed early Thursday (July 20) that nine people were injured, including five children, after a Russian strike on the Ukrainian port city of Mykolaiv. On Telegram, local governor Vitaliy Kim wrote that "Russians hit the city centre. A garage and a three-story residential building are on fire." Kim said that a three-year-old and a child less than a year old were among the injured, their condition is not known yet. He didn't provide details about the strike. Earlier, Ukraine's air force had announced an air alert for Mykolaiv and other regions. The city's mayor Oleksandr Senkevych wrote on Telegram: "There is a huge hole in the ground near a three-story residential building." Also read: Blow hot blow cold? Putin sounds conciliatory but defence ministry raises stakes on grain ships He said that emergency services were working at the site and "at least five residential high-rise buildings were damaged". He added that at another address "several garages" were on fire. Mykolaiv is located on the Black Sea, about 170 kilometres from Moscow-annexed Crimea and has often been targeted by Moscow during the war. Kim said on Tuesday that an "industrial facility" in the city had been targeted in a strike launched hours after the Kremlin failed to renew a pact allowing Ukraine's grain exports to be safe. Also read: Wagner Group boss Yevgeny Prigozhin seen first time in public post failed coup Attack on Odesa Ukrainian authorities also said that Russia attacked the southern port city of Odesa for the third night in a row as the region's military administration Oleh Kiper said in a post on Telegram that at least two people were injured in the attacks. The Ukrainian air force said early Thursday that at least eight Russian Tu-22M3 aircraft were "flying in the direction of the Black Sea." Watch: Ukrainian president aide admits counteroffensive will take long × Russia captures railway station In another development, the Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday that its forces had captured Movchanove railway station in Ukraine's northeastern Kharkiv region. Ukraine, which reclaimed much of the territory last September, warned this week that Russia was again on the attack in the region, with "heavy fighting" taking place. Ministry spokesperson Igor Konashenkov said that Russian forces also launched strikes on military-industrial sites, a fuel and ammunition store in Odesa, and a Ukrainian Air Force air base in the Kirovogradska region. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russian strike on Ukraine's port city of Mykolaiv injures nine, including children

<p>Britain's spy chief made rare comments on Wednesday (July 19) on the ongoing Ukraine war and Russian President Vladimir Putin in a speech and interview in the Czech capital Prague.&nbsp;</p>

<p>MI6 head Richard Moore claimed that Russians are "appalled" by their country's invasion and even urged them to "join hands" with the West.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also made an unusual public appeal for new agents as he used the crushing of the 1968 Prague Spring movement by Soviet-led armies as a call for Russian recruits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moore said, "There are many Russians today who are silently appalled by the sight of their armed forces pulverising Ukrainian cities, expelling innocent families from their homes and kidnapping thousands of children."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As they witness the venality, infighting and sheer callous incompetence of their leaders... many Russians are wrestling with the same dilemmas and the same tugs of conscience as their predecessors did in 1968," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I invite them to do what others have already done these past 18 months and join hands with us. Our door is always open," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While elaborating his unusual call of recruits, Moore said that the British Foreign Intelligence Service would handle any such moves "with discretion and professionalism."</p>

<p>"Their secrets will always be safe with us" and that "our loyalty to our agents is lifelong."&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a question-and-answer session hosted by the Politico website following his speech, Moore insisted protecting such assets is "sacred" as he insinuated that the spy service was already successfully harnessing Russian agents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If we could not do that, we would go out of business, and I can assure you we are very much in business," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Moore on Putin and Wagner</strong></h2>

<p>A report by CNN mentioned in detail how the MI6 head, in a way, confirmed that during the failed coup attempt of June 24, the leader of the private military organisation Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin, did strike a deal with Putin to cease his assault on Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moore said, "If you look at Putin's behaviours on that day. Prigozhin started off I think, as a traitor at breakfast. He had been pardoned by supper and then a few days later, he was invited for tea. So, there are some things and even the chief of MI6 finds that a little bit difficult to try and interpret, in terms of who's in and who's out."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He [Putin] really didn't fight back against Prigozhin. He cut a deal to save his skin, using the good offices of the leader of Belarus.</p>

<p>"So even I can't see inside Putin's head, He has to have realised, I am sure that something that is deeply rotten in the state of Denmark - to quote Hamlet - and he had to cut this deal," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moore also said he was positive about Ukraine will come victorious and be able to regain territory taken by Russia since it launched its invasion in February last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Britain's spy chief made rare comments on Wednesday (July 19) on the ongoing Ukraine war and Russian President Vladimir Putin in a speech and interview in the Czech capital Prague.

Britain's spy chief made rare comments on Wednesday (July 19) on the ongoing Ukraine war and Russian President Vladimir Putin in a speech and interview in the Czech capital Prague. MI6 head Richard Moore claimed that Russians are "appalled" by their country's invasion and even urged them to "join hands" with the West. He also made an unusual public appeal for new agents as he used the crushing of the 1968 Prague Spring movement by Soviet-led armies as a call for Russian recruits. Moore said, "There are many Russians today who are silently appalled by the sight of their armed forces pulverising Ukrainian cities, expelling innocent families from their homes and kidnapping thousands of children." "As they witness the venality, infighting and sheer callous incompetence of their leaders... many Russians are wrestling with the same dilemmas and the same tugs of conscience as their predecessors did in 1968," he said. "I invite them to do what others have already done these past 18 months and join hands with us. Our door is always open," he added. While elaborating his unusual call of recruits, Moore said that the British Foreign Intelligence Service would handle any such moves "with discretion and professionalism." "Their secrets will always be safe with us" and that "our loyalty to our agents is lifelong." During a question-and-answer session hosted by the Politico website following his speech, Moore insisted protecting such assets is "sacred" as he insinuated that the spy service was already successfully harnessing Russian agents. "If we could not do that, we would go out of business, and I can assure you we are very much in business," he said. Moore on Putin and Wagner A report by CNN mentioned in detail how the MI6 head, in a way, confirmed that during the failed coup attempt of June 24, the leader of the private military organisation Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin, did strike a deal with Putin to cease his assault on Moscow. Moore said, "If you look at Putin's behaviours on that day. Prigozhin started off I think, as a traitor at breakfast. He had been pardoned by supper and then a few days later, he was invited for tea. So, there are some things and even the chief of MI6 finds that a little bit difficult to try and interpret, in terms of who's in and who's out." "He [Putin] really didn't fight back against Prigozhin. He cut a deal to save his skin, using the good offices of the leader of Belarus. "So even I can't see inside Putin's head, He has to have realised, I am sure that something that is deeply rotten in the state of Denmark - to quote Hamlet - and he had to cut this deal," he added. Moore also said he was positive about Ukraine will come victorious and be able to regain territory taken by Russia since it launched its invasion in February last year. (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.

MI6 chief urges Russians 'appalled' by war to 'join hands with us'

<p>The Ukrainian Air Force said in a statement Wednesday (July 19) that Russia had launched overnight air attacks on the Ukrainian port of Odesa. The attack comes just a day after Moscow carried out air attacks on Ukraine's south and east using drones and possibly ballistic missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday, Ukraine claimed that Russian forces launched more than 60 airstrikes on Ukraine overnight. The air force said that the Russian barrage included Kalibr, Kh-22 and Oniks cruise missiles, and Iran-made Shahed-136/131 UAVs. The statement added that Ukrainian air defences destroyed 14 cruise missiles and 23 drones.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As reported by news agency Reuters, Serhiy Bratchuk, who is the spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, said in a voice message on his Telegram channel on Wednesday that the attack was "very powerful, truly massive". He added that "it was a hellish night". Bratchuk said that details on damage and casualties would come later.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Odesa's mayor said that the Russian aerial assault was "one of the most horrible nights" of the war. Mayor Hennadii Trukhanov said on Facebook: "We do not recall such a scale of attack since the beginning of a full-scale invasion."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are getting stronger from our righteous fury! We are grateful to the air defence system. It was a fierce air battle," Trukhanov said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attack comes against the backdrop of Russia suspending its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal on Monday, just hours before it was supposed to expire. Moscow said that it will only return to the deal if its conditions are met.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The deal aimed to alleviate a global food crisis by allowing Ukrainian grain blocked because of the conflict to be exported safely. It was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey last July.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The region of Odesa remained a crucial point ever since the war started. It is home to maritime terminals that were key to the expired grain export agreement between Moscow and Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Air attacks on Kyiv</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Air defence systems were engaged in repelling the attack on Kyiv, the capital's military administration said on the Telegram channel. Air raid alerts could be heard in the capital on Wednesday morning, Reuters reported. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"A difficult night of air attacks for all of Ukraine, especially in the south, in Odesa," Serhiy Popko, head of Kyiv's city military administration, said on the Telegram channel.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Fire at military base in Crimea</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Meanwhile, on the Russian front, the Moscow-backed governor of Crimea said on Wednesday that a fire that broke out at the military training grounds in the Kirovske district on the Crimean Peninsula forced the evacuation of more than 2,000 people and the closure of a nearby highway.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Ukrainian Air Force said in a statement Wednesday (July 19) that Russia had launched overnight air attacks on the Ukrainian port of Odesa. The attack comes just a day after Moscow carried out air attacks on Ukraine's south and east using drones and possibly ballistic missiles.

The Ukrainian Air Force said in a statement Wednesday (July 19) that Russia had launched overnight air attacks on the Ukrainian port of Odesa. The attack comes just a day after Moscow carried out air attacks on Ukraine's south and east using drones and possibly ballistic missiles. On Wednesday, Ukraine claimed that Russian forces launched more than 60 airstrikes on Ukraine overnight. The air force said that the Russian barrage included Kalibr, Kh-22 and Oniks cruise missiles, and Iran-made Shahed-136/131 UAVs. The statement added that Ukrainian air defences destroyed 14 cruise missiles and 23 drones. As reported by news agency Reuters, Serhiy Bratchuk, who is the spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, said in a voice message on his Telegram channel on Wednesday that the attack was "very powerful, truly massive". He added that "it was a hellish night". Bratchuk said that details on damage and casualties would come later. Odesa's mayor said that the Russian aerial assault was "one of the most horrible nights" of the war. Mayor Hennadii Trukhanov said on Facebook: "We do not recall such a scale of attack since the beginning of a full-scale invasion." "We are getting stronger from our righteous fury! We are grateful to the air defence system. It was a fierce air battle," Trukhanov said. The attack comes against the backdrop of Russia suspending its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal on Monday, just hours before it was supposed to expire. Moscow said that it will only return to the deal if its conditions are met. The deal aimed to alleviate a global food crisis by allowing Ukrainian grain blocked because of the conflict to be exported safely. It was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey last July. The region of Odesa remained a crucial point ever since the war started. It is home to maritime terminals that were key to the expired grain export agreement between Moscow and Kyiv. Air attacks on Kyiv Air defence systems were engaged in repelling the attack on Kyiv, the capital's military administration said on the Telegram channel. Air raid alerts could be heard in the capital on Wednesday morning, Reuters reported. "A difficult night of air attacks for all of Ukraine, especially in the south, in Odesa," Serhiy Popko, head of Kyiv's city military administration, said on the Telegram channel. Fire at military base in Crimea Meanwhile, on the Russian front, the Moscow-backed governor of Crimea said on Wednesday that a fire that broke out at the military training grounds in the Kirovske district on the Crimean Peninsula forced the evacuation of more than 2,000 people and the closure of a nearby highway. (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.

'Hellish night' for Ukraine as Russia launches another air strike on Odesa

<p>Ukraine said early Tuesday (July 18) that Russia launched overnight air attacks on Ukraine's south and east using drones and possibly ballistic missiles. Taking to Telegram, the Ukrainian Air Force said the southern port of Odesa and the Mykolaiv, Donetsk, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk regions were under threat of Russian drone attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Typhoon Talim made landfall in China late Monday forcing authorities to cancel flights, and trains, issue flood warnings and order people to stay indoors. Thousands of people have been evacuated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In other news, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is on a three-stop tour of the Persian Gulf states to help boost his nation’s ailing economy.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/air-attacks-on-ukraine-russia-possibly-using-ballistic-missiles-says-kyiv-616906"><strong>Air attacks on Ukraine: Russia possibly using ballistic missiles, says Kyiv</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/23/361741-ukraine-2.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Ukrainian Air Force said early on Tuesday that Russia launched overnight air attacks on Ukraine's south and east using drones and possibly ballistic missiles.&nbsp; On the Telegram messaging app, the Air Force said that the southern port of Odesa and the Mykolaiv, Donetsk, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk regions were under threat of Russian drone attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/typhoon-talim-makes-landfall-in-southern-china-as-authorities-evacuate-thousands-616926"><strong>Typhoon Talim makes landfall in southern China as authorities evacuate thousands</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/18/367825-copy-of-untitled.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Continuing the trend of extreme climatic conditions across the globe, typhoon Talim made landfall in China late Monday evening, forcing authorities to cancel flights, trains, issue flood warnings and order people to stay indoors.&nbsp;The typhoon made landfall around 10:20 pm, local time in&nbsp;Zhanjiang city of Guangdong province.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-signs-defence-and-energy-deals-with-saudi-arabia-to-fix-turkeys-ailing-economy-616917"><strong>Erdogan signs defence and energy deals with Saudi Arabia to fix Turkey’s ailing economy</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/18/367821-ieygbrs2j5n5bcakkweyp64j7u.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Turkish President&nbsp;Recep Tayyip Erdogan&nbsp;is on a three-stop tour of the Persian Gulf states to help boost his nation’s ailing economy. He landed in&nbsp;Saudi Arabia&nbsp;on Monday where the Turkish leader signed various memorandums of understanding (MoU) in various sectors, including defence, energy and direct investments.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/temperatures-reach-new-highs-world-witnesses-record-breaking-heat-616853"><strong>Temperatures reach new highs: World witnesses record-breaking heat</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/18/367760-the-battle-for-kyiv-58.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Heatwaves and devastating wildfires are scorching the Northern Hemisphere, leading to record-breaking temperatures across continents and prompting authorities to issue warnings about the severe impacts of global warming.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China's military expansion raises concern over regional stability</strong></p>

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Ukraine said early Tuesday (July 18) that Russia launched overnight air attacks on Ukraine's south and east using drones and possibly ballistic missiles. Taking to Telegram, the Ukrainian Air Force said the southern port of Odesa and the Mykolaiv, Donetsk, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk regions were under threat of Russian drone attacks.

Ukraine said early Tuesday (July 18) that Russia launched overnight air attacks on Ukraine's south and east using drones and possibly ballistic missiles. Taking to Telegram, the Ukrainian Air Force said the southern port of Odesa and the Mykolaiv, Donetsk, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk regions were under threat of Russian drone attacks. Typhoon Talim made landfall in China late Monday forcing authorities to cancel flights, and trains, issue flood warnings and order people to stay indoors. Thousands of people have been evacuated. In other news, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is on a three-stop tour of the Persian Gulf states to help boost his nation’s ailing economy. Click on the headlines to read more: Air attacks on Ukraine: Russia possibly using ballistic missiles, says Kyiv Ukrainian Air Force said early on Tuesday that Russia launched overnight air attacks on Ukraine's south and east using drones and possibly ballistic missiles. On the Telegram messaging app, the Air Force said that the southern port of Odesa and the Mykolaiv, Donetsk, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk regions were under threat of Russian drone attacks. Typhoon Talim makes landfall in southern China as authorities evacuate thousands Continuing the trend of extreme climatic conditions across the globe, typhoon Talim made landfall in China late Monday evening, forcing authorities to cancel flights, trains, issue flood warnings and order people to stay indoors. The typhoon made landfall around 10:20 pm, local time in Zhanjiang city of Guangdong province. Erdogan signs defence and energy deals with Saudi Arabia to fix Turkey’s ailing economy Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is on a three-stop tour of the Persian Gulf states to help boost his nation’s ailing economy. He landed in Saudi Arabia on Monday where the Turkish leader signed various memorandums of understanding (MoU) in various sectors, including defence, energy and direct investments. Temperatures reach new highs: World witnesses record-breaking heat Heatwaves and devastating wildfires are scorching the Northern Hemisphere, leading to record-breaking temperatures across continents and prompting authorities to issue warnings about the severe impacts of global warming. Watch | China's military expansion raises concern over regional stability ×

Morning brief: Russia possibly using ballistic missiles, says Ukraine, and more

The Ukraine war appears to be entering its most cruel stage. With both sides now armed and determined to use cluster bombs, it is only a matter of time before the death toll and the number of people injured start rising. Should you be worried? Listen in to Priyanka Sharma.

Gravitas: Ukraine war enters its most cruel stage. Here's why.

<p>The Kremlin said on Monday (July 17) that Russia has suspended its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal, and will only return to the deal if Moscow's conditions are met.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war led to a food grain crisis globally after Moscow invaded its neighbouring nation last year in February.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The deal, brokered by the United Nations and Turkey last July, aimed to alleviate a global food crisis by allowing Ukrainian grain blocked because of the conflict to be exported safely.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The last extension was due to expire on Monday and for months, Russia had been warning that conditions for its extension had not been fulfilled.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-traffic-stopped-on-crimean-bridge-reports-of-blasts-616344">'Ukraine behind the Crimean Bridge attack' that killed at least two</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters: "In fact, the Black Sea agreements ceased to be valid today. Unfortunately, the part of these Black Sea agreements concerning Russia has not been implemented so far, so its effect is terminated."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian news agencies also reported that Moscow had notified Turkey, Ukraine and the UN that it was not extending the deal, junking it just hours after it was supposed to get expired.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Russia today officially notified the Turkish and Ukrainian sides, as well as the UN Secretariat of its objection to the extension of the deal," TASS news agency quoted foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova as saying.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-appears-half-naked-in-bizarre-photo-since-aborted-mutiny-reports-616277">Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin appears ‘half-naked’ in bizarre photo since aborted mutiny: Reports</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The news agency Reuters quoted an analyst as saying that the grain deal suspension has increased food insecurity in poorer countries.</p>

<p>Carlos Mera, who is the head of the research for agricultural commodities at Rabobank, said: ''Certainly from the Russian side, you could argue Russia will prevent some money going to Ukraine, even though most of its (Ukraine's) surplus will flow by alternative routes."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It will be inefficient and Ukraine may find unable to sell 100 per cent of its exportable surplus. And also because with prices...will, are going up Russia will benefit on that front as well," Mera added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Attack on Crimean Bridge: At least 2 killed in Kerch blasts, Moscow blames Kyiv&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Germany urges Russia to return</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Germany urged Russia to return to the crucial deal, noting that it was crucial for food security. The government spokeswoman Christiane Hoffmann told reporters that "we continue to call on Russia to allow a further extension of the grain deal" and also added that the "conflict should not be carried out on the backs of the poorest on this planet".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Kremlin said on Monday (July 17) that Russia has suspended its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal, and will only return to the deal if Moscow's conditions are met.

The Kremlin said on Monday (July 17) that Russia has suspended its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal, and will only return to the deal if Moscow's conditions are met. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war led to a food grain crisis globally after Moscow invaded its neighbouring nation last year in February. The deal, brokered by the United Nations and Turkey last July, aimed to alleviate a global food crisis by allowing Ukrainian grain blocked because of the conflict to be exported safely. The last extension was due to expire on Monday and for months, Russia had been warning that conditions for its extension had not been fulfilled. Also read: 'Ukraine behind the Crimean Bridge attack' that killed at least two Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters: "In fact, the Black Sea agreements ceased to be valid today. Unfortunately, the part of these Black Sea agreements concerning Russia has not been implemented so far, so its effect is terminated." Russian news agencies also reported that Moscow had notified Turkey, Ukraine and the UN that it was not extending the deal, junking it just hours after it was supposed to get expired. "Russia today officially notified the Turkish and Ukrainian sides, as well as the UN Secretariat of its objection to the extension of the deal," TASS news agency quoted foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova as saying. Also read: Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin appears ‘half-naked’ in bizarre photo since aborted mutiny: Reports The news agency Reuters quoted an analyst as saying that the grain deal suspension has increased food insecurity in poorer countries. Carlos Mera, who is the head of the research for agricultural commodities at Rabobank, said: ''Certainly from the Russian side, you could argue Russia will prevent some money going to Ukraine, even though most of its (Ukraine's) surplus will flow by alternative routes." "It will be inefficient and Ukraine may find unable to sell 100 per cent of its exportable surplus. And also because with prices...will, are going up Russia will benefit on that front as well," Mera added. Watch: Attack on Crimean Bridge: At least 2 killed in Kerch blasts, Moscow blames Kyiv × Germany urges Russia to return Germany urged Russia to return to the crucial deal, noting that it was crucial for food security. The government spokeswoman Christiane Hoffmann told reporters that "we continue to call on Russia to allow a further extension of the grain deal" and also added that the "conflict should not be carried out on the backs of the poorest on this planet". (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 suspends participation in Black Sea grain deal

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