From Challenger tanks to Caesar howitzers: Western allies step up weapons supplies to 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.

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. Russia's defence ministry on Friday claimed that its forces had taken control of Klishchiivka, a settlement south of Bakhmut, which is in eastern Ukraine's Donetsk region. The news agency Reuters reported that the village of Klishchiivka had a pre-war population of around 400 people. The village was said to have been captured with the help of aerial support. Russia's claim was on the day when Western allies had gathered in Germany to plan future military assistance to Ukraine as President Volodymyr Zelensky urged for tanks and long-range missiles for its fight against Russia. The claim over Klishchiivka comes a day after the head of Russia's Wagner mercenary force, Yevgeny Prigozhin, said that his units had claimed more ground near Bakhmut and captured the village of Klishchiivka. Prigozhin said on Thursday, "We can safely say that the settlement of Klishchiivka, which is one of the important suburbs of Bakhmut, has been completely taken under the control of Wagner PMC units." WATCH | US calls for allies to 'dig deeper' on Ukraine as pressure builds for tanks × Meanwhile, a senior Moscow-installed official said on Friday that fighting has "sharply increased" in the southern Ukraine region of Zaporizhzhia. As quoted by the news agency AFP, the official Vladimir Rogov said on the Telegram social media platform: "In the direction of Zaporizhzhia, the intensity of military activity has sharply increased." (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 claims capture of Klishchiivka near Bakhmut

Russian media reports claiming that mercenary group Wagner is hiring Serbian locals for the Ukrainian war has caused outrage in the country, with the president asking the group to back off and stop involving their citizens in the conflict.

The public outburst from Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Tuesday is considered rare, given that Serbia is known to be a close ally of Russia.

“Why do you, from Wagner, call anyone from Serbia when you know that it is against our regulations?” Vucic said on Serbian television.

He slammed Russian websites and social media groups for posting hiring advertisements in the Serbian language, in which the Wagner Group calls on volunteers to join its ranks, according to local reports.

Vucic reiterated that Serbia was "neutral" regarding the war in Ukraine, but added that he had not spoken to Russian President Vladimir Putin for "many months", reports BBC.

Russia’s RIA news agency on Tuesday published footage purportedly showing two Serbian citizens participating in a weapons training course in Ukraine.

<h2>Russia and Belarus hold joint military drill</h2>

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Serbian citizens are, by law, banned from participating in foreign conflicts.

Though the exact figure of Serbian citizens participating in the war is currently unknown, some did fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine in 2014.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/outbreak-of-a-nuclear-war-russia-warns-of-escalation-as-west-mulls-sending-powerful-weapons-to-ukraine-554156">Russia warns of escalation, nuclear war outbreak as West mulls sending powerful weapons to Ukraine</a>

According to BBC, Serbian courts had, in fact, convicted more than two dozen people for taking part in "fighting on foreign battlefronts" in the aftermath of the Crimean conflict.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-declares-25-billion-in-additional-weapons-and-munitions-to-ukraine-554285">US declares $2.5 billion in additional weapons and munitions to Ukraine</a>

Apart from Belarus, Serbia is the only other European country that has not joined the Western countries in imposing sanctions against Russia.

Serbia remains the only European country – apart from Belarus – that did not join Western sanctions against Moscow.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian media reports claiming that mercenary group Wagner is hiring Serbian locals for the Ukrainian war has caused outrage in the country, with the president asking the group to back off and stop involving their citizens in the conflict.

Russian media reports claiming that mercenary group Wagner is hiring Serbian locals for the Ukrainian war has caused outrage in the country, with the president asking the group to back off and stop involving their citizens in the conflict. The public outburst from Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Tuesday is considered rare, given that Serbia is known to be a close ally of Russia. “Why do you, from Wagner, call anyone from Serbia when you know that it is against our regulations?” Vucic said on Serbian television. He slammed Russian websites and social media groups for posting hiring advertisements in the Serbian language, in which the Wagner Group calls on volunteers to join its ranks, according to local reports. Vucic reiterated that Serbia was "neutral" regarding the war in Ukraine, but added that he had not spoken to Russian President Vladimir Putin for "many months", reports BBC. Russia’s RIA news agency on Tuesday published footage purportedly showing two Serbian citizens participating in a weapons training course in Ukraine. Russia and Belarus hold joint military drill Serbian citizens are, by law, banned from participating in foreign conflicts. Though the exact figure of Serbian citizens participating in the war is currently unknown, some did fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine in 2014. Also read | Russia warns of escalation, nuclear war outbreak as West mulls sending powerful weapons to Ukraine According to BBC, Serbian courts had, in fact, convicted more than two dozen people for taking part in "fighting on foreign battlefronts" in the aftermath of the Crimean conflict. Also read | US declares $2.5 billion in additional weapons and munitions to Ukraine Apart from Belarus, Serbia is the only other European country that has not joined the Western countries in imposing sanctions against Russia. Serbia remains the only European country – apart from Belarus – that did not join Western sanctions against Moscow. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Outrage in Serbia over Russian mercenary Wagner Group hiring locals for Ukrainian war

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. Russia on Thursday (January 19) issued a warning that the ongoing Ukraine war will escalate if the West provides Kyiv with longer-range weapons. Since the Russia-Ukraine conflict started, the United States has sent advanced and high-precision weapons and other military assistance to Ukraine to help the war-torn nation against Russian aggression. The aid included multiple-launch High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS). But Kyiv urged the West to send long-range weapons to strike far behind Russian lines. But the supply of long-range weapons remained highly debated. Stark warning to the West Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, told reporters on Thursday: "Potentially, this is extremely dangerous, it will mean bringing the conflict to a whole new level, which, of course, will not bode well from the point of view of global and pan-European security." In a separate statement, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev warned that the West's continued support for Ukraine could lead to nuclear war. In a post on Telegram, he wrote: "A nuclear power's loss in a conventional war can provoke the outbreak of a nuclear war. Nuclear powers have not lost major conflicts on which their fate depends." US mulls over sending powerful weapons to Ukraine Meeting at Ramstein Air Base A report in Politico mentioned that the US officials told the news website that Washington is likely to announce that it will send long-range missiles with a range of over 100 miles to Ukraine this week. The decision might come on Friday as the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) and other defence leaders are due to meet at Ramstein Air Base in Germany. In the key donor meeting, they are expected to talk about strategy and also support the West's attempt to defeat Russia in Ukraine. The US might send the Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bomb (GLSDB), which is a rocket-launched manoeuvrable glide bomb, with double the range of HIMARS missiles. As reported by news agencies, a US official said the Biden administration was set to approve a new aid package to Ukraine, worth more than $2 billion, which would likely include Stryker armoured vehicles for Kyiv, but not M1 Abrams tanks. News agencies have reported that a US official said the Biden administration was set to approve a new aid package to Ukraine. The latest package's worth would be more than $2 billion. It is expected that it will include Stryker armoured vehicles for Kyiv. So far, there's no mention of M1 Abrams tanks. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. 🆕📹"Weapons are the way to peace,"#NATO Secretary General @jensstoltenberg stresses the importance of stepping up military support for #Ukraine’s 🇺🇦 self-defence at the World Economic Forum #wef23 @wef ℹ️: https://t.co/jseAVMa4fR pic.twitter.com/bb9GmUjYjL — Oana Lungescu (@NATOpress) January 18, 2023 × USA’s 🇺🇸 next military aid package for Ukraine 🇺🇦 will likely include GLSDB Long Range Missiles with a range of 150km, and Stryker Armored Fighting Vehicles (Politico) pic.twitter.com/JFiPjDIoQi — Ukraine Battle Map (@ukraine_map) January 18, 2023 × Archer artillery system Meanwhile, Sweden on Thursday announced that it will send its Archer artillery system to Ukraine along with armoured vehicles and anti-tank missiles. The Archer artillery system is a modern mobile howitzer. Speaking at a press conference, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said his government had agreed on a three-part military support package for Kyiv. The aid will include "the first decision on starting deliveries of the artillery system Archer to Ukraine". WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: US Defence Secy arrives in Berlin; Kyiv says tank supplies should come quicker × Zelensky's request for weapons In a video address to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the Western supplies of tanks and air defence units should come more quickly. Talks over German tanks After a constant request by Ukraine, pressure has been mounting on Germany from European allies to authorise exports of its Leopard tank. These tanks are used by several armed forces around the world. However, several media reports suggested that Berlin has put a condition that it will send the tanks to Ukraine only if the US does the same. The Ukrainian president even criticised Germany for reluctance over sending tanks. EU chief's Ukraine visit EU chief Charles Michel announced on Thursday that he is visiting Ukraine. In Kyiv, the EU chief will meet Zelensky and they will talk about what "concrete measures" Europe can take to support Ukraine. In a video posted on Twitter, Michel said, "I am on my way to Kyiv." Michel stated that he would also meet Zelensky as well as the prime minister and members of parliament. (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 warns of escalation, nuclear war outbreak as West mulls sending powerful weapons to 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. Russian President Vladimir Putin once again slammed the Western nations on Monday (January 16) for supplying weapons to Ukraine amid the ongoing war. In a phone call with his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Putin also criticised Kyiv's "destructive" policies. Revealing details of the telephone conversation, Kremlin said, "Vladimir Putin drew attention to the destructive line of the Kyiv regime, which has bet on the intensification of hostilities with the support of Western sponsors." Kremlin claimed that the West has ramped up the supplies of weapons and military equipment. The Ukraine war, which started last year when Russia invaded its neighbouring nation on February 24, led to massive food and fuel crises. World leaders have urged both parties to follow the path of diplomacy and end the war that caused the deaths of tens of thousands of people. Reports have mentioned that about a quarter of the population has fled their homes. The West has vowed to back war-torn Ukraine to resist the Russian forces. Meanwhile, Moscow continued the fighting and even seized part of the Donbas region of south-eastern Ukraine. WATCH | WION Fineprint: Russia and Belarus hold joint military drill × After Ukraine said that its forces would need Western tanks and armoured vehicles to break through Russian lines, Britain recently pledged to provide Ukraine with a first squadron of Challengers. On the other hand, Erdogan's office said that the Turkish president renewed his offer to help mediate an end to the conflict in Ukraine. The statement mentioned that the two leaders also discussed the exports of Russian grain and ammonia through the Black Sea. "During the call, President Erdogan reiterated that Turkey is ready to undertake the task of facilitating and mediating for the establishment of a lasting peace between Russia and Ukraine," it said in a statement. 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: Putin slams increase in Western arms deliveries to Kyiv

At least 68 people were killed after a passenger airplane with 72 people on board crashed near Pokhara International Airport in Nepal on Sunday (January 15), making it the worst aviation disaster in the country in 30 years. As the war in Ukraine continues, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the "special military operation'' was showing a positive trend, adding that Russian soldiers will deliver more results after an attack on Soledar. In Afghanistan, the Taliban administration in Afghanistan said that overturning restrictions against women is not a priority- weeks after it passed two orders- banning university education for women and banning women from working for aid groups. 
&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-passenger-airplane-with-72-on-board-crashes-552768">Nepal’s worst air crash in 30 years: 68 killed as passenger plane with 72 onboard crashes near Pokhara</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/15/325682-nepal-crash-2.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

At least 68&nbsp;people were killed after a&nbsp;passenger airplane with 72 people on board&nbsp;crashed near Pokhara International Airport in Nepal on Sunday (January 15) minutes before&nbsp;its scheduled landing, reported AFP. The officially declared death toll stands&nbsp;at 68 currently. It was a Yeti Airlines flight.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-special-military-operation-in-ukraine-showing-positive-trend-552863">Putin says special military operation in Ukraine showing positive trend</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/15/325704-untitled-design-2023-01-15t173806266.png?imwidth=1920" />

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that a positive trend is visible in the special military operation in Ukraine and that the Russian soldiers will deliver more results after an attack on Soledar.&nbsp;Putin said, "The dynamic is positive. Everything is developing within the framework of the plan of the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff. And I hope that our fighters will please us even more with the results of their combat."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-say-overturning-restrictions-against-afghan-women-not-a-priority-report-552865">Taliban say overturning restrictions against Afghan women, not a priority: Report</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/15/325705-000334x72l.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

After taking over Afghanistan in August 2021, the Taliban imposed several restrictions on females including restricting their freedom of movement, barring girls from attending secondary schools, excluding women from most areas of the workforce and also banning them from using parks, gyms and public bath houses. Weeks back,&nbsp;the group passed two orders- banning university education for women and banning women from working for aid groups.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/africa/dr-congo-five-killed-15-injured-in-bombing-in-church-ugandan-militant-group-likely-behind-attack-report-552894">DR Congo | Five killed, 15 injured in bombing in church; Ugandan militant group likely behind attack: Report</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/15/325723-0009dl68n.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

A spokesperson of the army told the news agency Reuters the attack was likely carried out by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF)- a Ugandan militant group that pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) in 2019.&nbsp;The ADF has not yet claimed responsibility for the attack.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-president-yoon-reaches-uae-seeks-arm-sales-552839">South Korean President Yoon reaches UAE, seeks arm sales</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/15/325696-south-korea.png?imwidth=1920" />

Yoon's visit comes when South Korea engages in multibillion-dollar commercial transactions and stationing special forces soldiers to guard the UAE. It is a plan that garnered criticism under his liberal predecessor.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/uks-nhs-and-genomics-england-to-use-using-genome-sequencing-to-identify-rare-diseases-in-babies-552835">UK's NHS and Genomics England to use genome sequencing to identify rare diseases in babies</a>

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Professor Matt Brown, the Chief Scientific Officer at Genomics England has predicted that very soon parents will be able to have it checked if their baby is at a higher risk of illnesses. He said that for this, parents could have their children’s genetic code read by the NHS.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-protest-in-israel-against-netanyahu-decries-government-of-shame-552831">Thousands protest in Israel against Netanyahu, decry ‘government of shame’</a>

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The Israeli media reported that the rally saw the participation of 80,000 people, quoting police sources. This is the biggest protest since the new government of Netanyahu came to power in Israel in late December.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/somalia-eight-killed-in-roadside-bombing-al-shabaab-claims-responsibility-552848">Somalia: Eight killed in roadside bombing, Al-Shabaab claims responsibility</a>

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The blast occurred in Hiran district's Buloburde city. A local police commander Abdullahi Mohamud said the bomber detonated a car laden with explosives near an administrative building, a report by the news agency AFP said on Sunday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-record-odi-victory-rohit-and-company-defeat-sri-lanka-by-a-mammoth-317-runs-lankans-collapse-at-73-552909">India's record ODI victory: Rohit and company defeat Sri Lanka by a mammoth 317 runs, Lankans collapse at 73</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/10/309848-kohli-4000-runs-t20is.png?imwidth=1920" />

Team India secured a historic victory in the third and final match of their series against Sri Lanka, defeating the team by 317 runs in Thiruvananthapuram. This broke the previous record for the largest victory by runs in ODIs, which was held by New Zealand with a 290 run win against Ireland in 2008.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/folk-singer-nira-chhantyal-among-68-passengers-killed-in-tragic-nepal-plane-crash-552915">Folk singer Nira Chhantyal among 68 passengers killed in tragic Nepal plane crash</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/15/325737-untitled-design-2023-01-15t203710192.png?imwidth=1920" />

Nepal's folk singer Nira Chhantyal died along with 67 other passengers in the tragic plane crash that took place near Pokhara International Airport on Sunday.&nbsp;The sad news of her demise was confirmed by her sister Heera Chantyal Sherchan. Chhantyal was headed to Pokhara to attend an event which was being organised to mark the festival of Magh Sankranti.&nbsp;

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At least 68 people were killed after a passenger airplane with 72 people on board crashed near Pokhara International Airport in Nepal on Sunday (January 15), making it the worst aviation disaster in the country in 30 years.

At least 68 people were killed after a passenger airplane with 72 people on board crashed near Pokhara International Airport in Nepal on Sunday (January 15), making it the worst aviation disaster in the country in 30 years. As the war in Ukraine continues, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the "special military operation'' was showing a positive trend, adding that Russian soldiers will deliver more results after an attack on Soledar. In Afghanistan, the Taliban administration in Afghanistan said that overturning restrictions against women is not a priority- weeks after it passed two orders- banning university education for women and banning women from working for aid groups. Click on the headlines to read more: Nepal’s worst air crash in 30 years: 68 killed as passenger plane with 72 onboard crashes near Pokhara At least 68 people were killed after a passenger airplane with 72 people on board crashed near Pokhara International Airport in Nepal on Sunday (January 15) minutes before its scheduled landing, reported AFP. The officially declared death toll stands at 68 currently. It was a Yeti Airlines flight. Putin says special military operation in Ukraine showing positive trend Russian President Vladimir Putin said that a positive trend is visible in the special military operation in Ukraine and that the Russian soldiers will deliver more results after an attack on Soledar. Putin said, "The dynamic is positive. Everything is developing within the framework of the plan of the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff. And I hope that our fighters will please us even more with the results of their combat." Taliban say overturning restrictions against Afghan women, not a priority: Report After taking over Afghanistan in August 2021, the Taliban imposed several restrictions on females including restricting their freedom of movement, barring girls from attending secondary schools, excluding women from most areas of the workforce and also banning them from using parks, gyms and public bath houses. Weeks back, the group passed two orders- banning university education for women and banning women from working for aid groups. DR Congo | Five killed, 15 injured in bombing in church; Ugandan militant group likely behind attack: Report A spokesperson of the army told the news agency Reuters the attack was likely carried out by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF)- a Ugandan militant group that pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) in 2019. The ADF has not yet claimed responsibility for the attack. South Korean President Yoon reaches UAE, seeks arm sales Yoon's visit comes when South Korea engages in multibillion-dollar commercial transactions and stationing special forces soldiers to guard the UAE. It is a plan that garnered criticism under his liberal predecessor. UK's NHS and Genomics England to use genome sequencing to identify rare diseases in babies Professor Matt Brown, the Chief Scientific Officer at Genomics England has predicted that very soon parents will be able to have it checked if their baby is at a higher risk of illnesses. He said that for this, parents could have their children’s genetic code read by the NHS. Thousands protest in Israel against Netanyahu, decry ‘government of shame’ The Israeli media reported that the rally saw the participation of 80,000 people, quoting police sources. This is the biggest protest since the new government of Netanyahu came to power in Israel in late December. Somalia: Eight killed in roadside bombing, Al-Shabaab claims responsibility The blast occurred in Hiran district's Buloburde city. A local police commander Abdullahi Mohamud said the bomber detonated a car laden with explosives near an administrative building, a report by the news agency AFP said on Sunday. India's record ODI victory: Rohit and company defeat Sri Lanka by a mammoth 317 runs, Lankans collapse at 73 Team India secured a historic victory in the third and final match of their series against Sri Lanka, defeating the team by 317 runs in Thiruvananthapuram. This broke the previous record for the largest victory by runs in ODIs, which was held by New Zealand with a 290 run win against Ireland in 2008. Folk singer Nira Chhantyal among 68 passengers killed in tragic Nepal plane crash Nepal's folk singer Nira Chhantyal died along with 67 other passengers in the tragic plane crash that took place near Pokhara International Airport on Sunday. The sad news of her demise was confirmed by her sister Heera Chantyal Sherchan. Chhantyal was headed to Pokhara to attend an event which was being organised to mark the festival of Magh Sankranti.

Top 10 world news: Pokhara air crash Nepal's worst aviation disaster in three decades & more

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.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that a positive trend is visible in the special military operation in Ukraine and that the Russian soldiers will deliver more results after an attack on Soledar.&nbsp;

While speaking on Rossiya 1 state television, Putin said, "The dynamic is positive. Everything is developing within the framework of the plan of the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff."

"And I hope that our fighters will please us even more with the results of their combat," said Putin.

On Friday, Russia claimed that Soledar, a town in east Ukraine, has been captured by its forces, in what can be considered a rare success for the Russian military after facing battlefield reverses for months.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-missiles-hit-ukrainian-capital-more-attacks-expected-elsewhere-552596">Russian missiles strike several Ukrainian cities, 20 killed, 64 injured</a>

Talking about Russia's economy, Putin said, "The situation in the economy is stable. Much better than not only what our opponents predicted but also what we forecast."&nbsp;

He added that the key indicator was unemployment. "Unemployment is at a historic low. Inflation is lower than expected and has, importantly, a downward trend,” he said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the defence ministry of Russia on Sunday confirmed that several missile strikes were launched by its forces against the infrastructure sites and military of Ukraine on Saturday.

WATCH| Ukraine witness emergency blackouts after Russian strikes

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Around 23&nbsp;people lost their lives on Saturday in Russia's strike on an apartment complex in Dnipro, an eastern city of Ukraine, the authorities said.&nbsp;

Russia, in its statement, said: "All assigned objects were hit. The targets of the strike have been achieved." Moscow further informed that the troops have moved towards Bakhmut city in the Donetsk region of Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

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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. Russian President Vladimir Putin said that a positive trend is visible in the special military operation in Ukraine and that the Russian soldiers will deliver more results after an attack on Soledar. While speaking on Rossiya 1 state television, Putin said, "The dynamic is positive. Everything is developing within the framework of the plan of the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff." "And I hope that our fighters will please us even more with the results of their combat," said Putin. On Friday, Russia claimed that Soledar, a town in east Ukraine, has been captured by its forces, in what can be considered a rare success for the Russian military after facing battlefield reverses for months. ALSO READ| Russian missiles strike several Ukrainian cities, 20 killed, 64 injured Talking about Russia's economy, Putin said, "The situation in the economy is stable. Much better than not only what our opponents predicted but also what we forecast." He added that the key indicator was unemployment. "Unemployment is at a historic low. Inflation is lower than expected and has, importantly, a downward trend,” he said. Meanwhile, the defence ministry of Russia on Sunday confirmed that several missile strikes were launched by its forces against the infrastructure sites and military of Ukraine on Saturday. WATCH| Ukraine witness emergency blackouts after Russian strikes Around 23 people lost their lives on Saturday in Russia's strike on an apartment complex in Dnipro, an eastern city of Ukraine, the authorities said. Russia, in its statement, said: "All assigned objects were hit. The targets of the strike have been achieved." Moscow further informed that the troops have moved towards Bakhmut city in the Donetsk region of Ukraine. (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

Putin says special military operation in Ukraine showing positive trend

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Saturday (January 14) that the G7 summit which will be held in Hiroshima in May should show a strong will on Russia's offensive in Ukraine while pointing out that the aggression in Kyiv is not only a European problem but also a challenge to the very rules and principles of the international community. Speaking to reporters following Friday's Japan-United States summit, Prime Minister Kishida said, "As a result, (of ongoing dialogue with other partners) we were able to reaffirm our commitment that the G7 will unite and work together to safeguard the international order based on the rule of law. In our coordination in the run-up to the Hiroshima summit, the greatest issue was, needless to say, the Russian aggression against Ukraine, which will soon mark one year since the start," news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-hails-kishida-for-scrapping-japans-pacifist-defence-strategy-552485">Joe Biden hails PM Kishida for scrapping Japan’s pacifist defence strategy</a>

"I pointed out that the aggression against Ukraine is not only a European problem but also a challenge to the very rules and principles of the international community and agreed with the heads of state and government that the G7 Hiroshima summit should demonstrate a strong will to uphold the international order based on the rule of law," Kishida said, adding, the leaders confirmed they would continue tough sanctions against Moscow and strong support for Ukraine.&nbsp;

He also stressed the importance of standing up to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, saying if a unilateral change to the status quo went unchallenged, the same would happen elsewhere, including in Asia — an apparent reference to China's vow to reunite with self-governed Taiwan, by force if necessary, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

The Japanese Prime Minister, who is in Washington on the last stop of a tour of G7 industrial powers and has been seeking to bolster long-standing alliances, met United States President Joe Biden for a bilateral meeting and the two leaders issued a joint statement which said that any use of a nuclear weapon by Russia in Ukraine would be an act of hostility against humanity and justifiable in any way.&nbsp;

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Hitting back, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev accused Fumio Kishida of shameful subservience to the US and suggested that Japanese Prime Minister should ritually disembowel himself. A prominent ally of President Vladimir Putin, Medvedev said the nuclear statement showed "paranoia" towards Moscow and "betrayed the memory of hundreds of thousands of Japanese who were burned in the nuclear fire of Hiroshima and Nagasaki" — in a reference to the US dropping atomic bombs on these two Japanese cities in 1945. Medvedev said that rather than demanding repentance for this, Kishida showed that he was "just a service attendant for the Americans". Kishida made no mention of these comments by the former Russian President.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Saturday (January 14) that the G7 summit which will be held in Hiroshima in May should show a strong will on Russia's offensive in Ukraine while pointing out that the aggression in Kyiv is not only a European problem but also a challenge to the very rules and principles of the international community.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Saturday (January 14) that the G7 summit which will be held in Hiroshima in May should show a strong will on Russia's offensive in Ukraine while pointing out that the aggression in Kyiv is not only a European problem but also a challenge to the very rules and principles of the international community. Speaking to reporters following Friday's Japan-United States summit, Prime Minister Kishida said, "As a result, (of ongoing dialogue with other partners) we were able to reaffirm our commitment that the G7 will unite and work together to safeguard the international order based on the rule of law. In our coordination in the run-up to the Hiroshima summit, the greatest issue was, needless to say, the Russian aggression against Ukraine, which will soon mark one year since the start," news agency Reuters reported. ALSO READ | Joe Biden hails PM Kishida for scrapping Japan’s pacifist defence strategy "I pointed out that the aggression against Ukraine is not only a European problem but also a challenge to the very rules and principles of the international community and agreed with the heads of state and government that the G7 Hiroshima summit should demonstrate a strong will to uphold the international order based on the rule of law," Kishida said, adding, the leaders confirmed they would continue tough sanctions against Moscow and strong support for Ukraine. He also stressed the importance of standing up to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, saying if a unilateral change to the status quo went unchallenged, the same would happen elsewhere, including in Asia — an apparent reference to China's vow to reunite with self-governed Taiwan, by force if necessary, Reuters reported. The Japanese Prime Minister, who is in Washington on the last stop of a tour of G7 industrial powers and has been seeking to bolster long-standing alliances, met United States President Joe Biden for a bilateral meeting and the two leaders issued a joint statement which said that any use of a nuclear weapon by Russia in Ukraine would be an act of hostility against humanity and justifiable in any way. ALSO READ | Ukraine alleges Russia cancelled scheduled prisoner exchange at the last minute Hitting back, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev accused Fumio Kishida of shameful subservience to the US and suggested that Japanese Prime Minister should ritually disembowel himself. A prominent ally of President Vladimir Putin, Medvedev said the nuclear statement showed "paranoia" towards Moscow and "betrayed the memory of hundreds of thousands of Japanese who were burned in the nuclear fire of Hiroshima and Nagasaki" — in a reference to the US dropping atomic bombs on these two Japanese cities in 1945. Medvedev said that rather than demanding repentance for this, Kishida showed that he was "just a service attendant for the Americans". Kishida made no mention of these comments by the former Russian President. (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.

G7 should show strong will against Russia’s offensive in Ukraine: Japan PM Kishida

Russian missiles on Saturday (January 14) struck key infrastructures in Ukraine's capital city of Kyiv and Kharkiv, with the governor of another Ukrainian region warning of a missile strike in the coming hours. China's National Health Commission (NHC) said that 60,000 people died due to Covid between December 8 and January 12, releasing the death toll for the first time since the government scrapped the zero-Covid policy last month. And in Brazil, a former minister in Ex-President Jair Bolsonaro's cabinet- Anderson Torres was arrested early Saturday (January 14) over the riots that broke out in the capital city of Brasilia on January 8.

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Critical infrastructure in Ukraine's capital Kyiv and eastern city Kharkiv was hit by Russian missile attack on Saturday morning. Governor of another region warned of a massive missile strike in coming hours.&nbsp;

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Chinese National Health Commission’s medical affairs department's director Jiao Yahui said that around 60,000 Covid-related deaths have been recorded in China between December 8 and January 12, releasing the death toll in China for the first time since the government scrapped the strict zero-Covid policy last month.&nbsp;

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A former minister in Ex-President Jair Bolsonaro's cabinet- Anderson Torres was arrested early Saturday (January 14) over the riots that broke out in the capital city of Brasilia on January 8.&nbsp;Torres, who had served as Brazil's justice minister was arrested when he arrived in Brasilia from the United States early Saturday.&nbsp;

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Peruvian President Dina Boluarte refused to step down amid increasing protests across the country as protesters demanded her resignation and a trade union leader was arrested for his alleged ties with the Maoist rebels.&nbsp;President Boluarte said, "Some voices that have come from the violent and radical factions are asking for my resignation, provoking the population into chaos, disorder and destruction. I will not resign. My commitment is with Peru."&nbsp;

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Pakistan's unprecedented crisis of food, stemming from years of economic mismanagement amid country's support for cross-border terrorism, was debated in Islamabad's senate on Friday. Country's opposition leaders charged against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led coalition and held the federal government responsible for the country's ongoing shortage of wheat.&nbsp;

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Thousands of workers in Indonesia held a protest in the capital city of Jakarta on Saturday (January 14), urging Parliament to reject an emergency Presidential order issued last month to replace the controversial Jobs Creation Law.&nbsp;The Jobs Creation Law was passed in 2020, revising over 70 other laws and it was welcomed by foreign investors for cutting red tape.

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In a major win for Elon Musk-led Twitter, the social media company secured a ruling that allowed it to force several laid-off workers to terminate their proposed class-action lawsuit over revocation of their employment status. A US district judge ruled that former Twitter employees should pursue their claims via individual arbitration instead of a class-action lawsuit.&nbsp;

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The Israeli army killed two Palestinians in a raid in the occupied West Bank on Saturday, said the Palestinian health ministry.&nbsp;The ministry stated that the Israeli forces shot dead two young Palestinians "during an assault on the village of Jaba, south of Jenin" in the West Bank's north but it did not provide any further details on the circumstances around the&nbsp;killings.&nbsp;

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K-pop band Big Bang member Taeyang has collaborated with BTS member&nbsp;Jimin for a new single titled ‘Vibe’.&nbsp;The song debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Trending Songs even before its release and has crossed over 24 million views&nbsp;on YouTube in just a day.&nbsp;

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Russian missiles on Saturday (January 14) struck key infrastructures in Ukraine's capital city of Kyiv and Kharkiv, with the governor of another Ukrainian region warning of a missile strike in the coming hours.

Russian missiles on Saturday (January 14) struck key infrastructures in Ukraine's capital city of Kyiv and Kharkiv, with the governor of another Ukrainian region warning of a missile strike in the coming hours. China's National Health Commission (NHC) said that 60,000 people died due to Covid between December 8 and January 12, releasing the death toll for the first time since the government scrapped the zero-Covid policy last month. And in Brazil, a former minister in Ex-President Jair Bolsonaro's cabinet- Anderson Torres was arrested early Saturday (January 14) over the riots that broke out in the capital city of Brasilia on January 8. Click on the headlines to read more: Russian missiles hit Ukrainian capital Kyiv, Kharkiv; people urged to stay in shelters Critical infrastructure in Ukraine's capital Kyiv and eastern city Kharkiv was hit by Russian missile attack on Saturday morning. Governor of another region warned of a massive missile strike in coming hours. China records around 60,000 deaths related to Covid-19 in one month: Official Chinese National Health Commission’s medical affairs department's director Jiao Yahui said that around 60,000 Covid-related deaths have been recorded in China between December 8 and January 12, releasing the death toll in China for the first time since the government scrapped the strict zero-Covid policy last month. Brazil riots: Ex-Bolsonaro minister Anderson Torres arrested A former minister in Ex-President Jair Bolsonaro's cabinet- Anderson Torres was arrested early Saturday (January 14) over the riots that broke out in the capital city of Brasilia on January 8. Torres, who had served as Brazil's justice minister was arrested when he arrived in Brasilia from the United States early Saturday. Peru's President Boluarte refuses to resign as protests rage across capital Peruvian President Dina Boluarte refused to step down amid increasing protests across the country as protesters demanded her resignation and a trade union leader was arrested for his alleged ties with the Maoist rebels. President Boluarte said, "Some voices that have come from the violent and radical factions are asking for my resignation, provoking the population into chaos, disorder and destruction. I will not resign. My commitment is with Peru." 'Who is stealing our chickens and wheat', asks Pakistan senator amid ongoing food crisis Pakistan's unprecedented crisis of food, stemming from years of economic mismanagement amid country's support for cross-border terrorism, was debated in Islamabad's senate on Friday. Country's opposition leaders charged against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led coalition and held the federal government responsible for the country's ongoing shortage of wheat. Indonesia: Workers protest against govt's emergency regulation on job law Thousands of workers in Indonesia held a protest in the capital city of Jakarta on Saturday (January 14), urging Parliament to reject an emergency Presidential order issued last month to replace the controversial Jobs Creation Law. The Jobs Creation Law was passed in 2020, revising over 70 other laws and it was welcomed by foreign investors for cutting red tape. US judge asks fired Twitter employees to drop crucial lawsuit In a major win for Elon Musk-led Twitter, the social media company secured a ruling that allowed it to force several laid-off workers to terminate their proposed class-action lawsuit over revocation of their employment status. A US district judge ruled that former Twitter employees should pursue their claims via individual arbitration instead of a class-action lawsuit. Two Palestinians killed in West Bank raid by Israeli army, Islamic Jihad group condemns action The Israeli army killed two Palestinians in a raid in the occupied West Bank on Saturday, said the Palestinian health ministry. The ministry stated that the Israeli forces shot dead two young Palestinians "during an assault on the village of Jaba, south of Jenin" in the West Bank's north but it did not provide any further details on the circumstances around the killings. When Virender Sehwag pleaded Sachin Tendulkar to save him from Wasim Akram during 2003 World Cup Virender Sehwag is regarded as one of cricket’s greatest openers across formats given his impressive explosive exploits with the bat. He was known to be a fearless batter at the top of the order and was even named as the best entertainer by many during his time. BTS' Jimin collaborates with Taeyang for new single 'Vibe' K-pop band Big Bang member Taeyang has collaborated with BTS member Jimin for a new single titled ‘Vibe’. The song debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Trending Songs even before its release and has crossed over 24 million views on YouTube in just a day.

Top 10 world news: Russian missiles hit Ukraine's capital Kyiv, Kharkiv and more

The Turkish government said on Saturday (January 14) that it was ready to push for local ceasefires in Ukraine but said that neither Russia nor Ukraine had the military means to win the war. Ibrahim Kalin, the foreign policy advisor of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told reporters, "Turkey is willing to push for local ceasefires and small localised de-escalations. Neither party is in a position to win the war militarily, on the ground," a report by news agency AFP said. Kalin conceded it seemed unlikely that Moscow and Kyiv were ready to strike an "overarching peace deal" in the coming months.

However, the advisor pointed out that the brutal cost of fighting might soon see the warring sides reconsider and accept localised truces in specific parts of the war zone.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-soledar-city-controlled-by-kyiv-fight-ongoing-says-report-552635">Ukraine war: Soledar city 'controlled' by Kyiv, fighting ongoing, says report</a>

Since the beginning of Russia's offensive in Ukraine on February 24 last year, President Erdogan has used his good relations with Moscow and Kyiv to try and mediate an end to the conflict. Erdogan has held repeated telephonic conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky aimed at finding common ground, the report said.&nbsp;

Turkey had hosted two early rounds of peace talks and helped strike an UN-backed agreement restoring Ukrainian grain deliveries across the Black Sea. A few weeks back, Turkish defence minister Hulusi Akar had said that his government called for at least a humanitarian ceasefire, then a permanent ceasefire and then peace talks. Akar said on December 27 last year that the war will not end easily despite Turkey's efforts to arrange peace talks between Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;

The war in Ukraine will soon enter its 12th month with President Volodymyr Zelensky wanting to visit the United Nations and address a high-level meeting of the General Assembly on the eve of the first anniversary of Russia's offensive.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/on-eve-of-first-anniversary-of-ukraine-war-zelensky-wants-to-visit-un-and-address-general-assembly-552577">Zelensky wants to address UN General Assembly when Russian invasion completes one year</a>

On Saturday, key infrastructures in Kharkiv and the capital city of Kyiv were hit by Russian missiles while Ukraine said it is in control of the salt-mining city of Soledar. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pledged to provide Challenger 2 tanks to Ukraine, making it the first Western country to supply Kyiv with main battle tanks. Last week, France, Germany and the United States pledged to send armoured fighting vehicles to Ukraine.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Turkish government said on Saturday (January 14) that it was ready to push for local ceasefires in Ukraine but said that neither Russia nor Ukraine had the military means to win the war.

The Turkish government said on Saturday (January 14) that it was ready to push for local ceasefires in Ukraine but said that neither Russia nor Ukraine had the military means to win the war. Ibrahim Kalin, the foreign policy advisor of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told reporters, "Turkey is willing to push for local ceasefires and small localised de-escalations. Neither party is in a position to win the war militarily, on the ground," a report by news agency AFP said. Kalin conceded it seemed unlikely that Moscow and Kyiv were ready to strike an "overarching peace deal" in the coming months. However, the advisor pointed out that the brutal cost of fighting might soon see the warring sides reconsider and accept localised truces in specific parts of the war zone. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: Soledar city 'controlled' by Kyiv, fighting ongoing, says report Since the beginning of Russia's offensive in Ukraine on February 24 last year, President Erdogan has used his good relations with Moscow and Kyiv to try and mediate an end to the conflict. Erdogan has held repeated telephonic conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky aimed at finding common ground, the report said. Turkey had hosted two early rounds of peace talks and helped strike an UN-backed agreement restoring Ukrainian grain deliveries across the Black Sea. A few weeks back, Turkish defence minister Hulusi Akar had said that his government called for at least a humanitarian ceasefire, then a permanent ceasefire and then peace talks. Akar said on December 27 last year that the war will not end easily despite Turkey's efforts to arrange peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. The war in Ukraine will soon enter its 12th month with President Volodymyr Zelensky wanting to visit the United Nations and address a high-level meeting of the General Assembly on the eve of the first anniversary of Russia's offensive. ALSO READ | Zelensky wants to address UN General Assembly when Russian invasion completes one year On Saturday, key infrastructures in Kharkiv and the capital city of Kyiv were hit by Russian missiles while Ukraine said it is in control of the salt-mining city of Soledar. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pledged to provide Challenger 2 tanks to Ukraine, making it the first Western country to supply Kyiv with main battle tanks. Last week, France, Germany and the United States pledged to send armoured fighting vehicles to Ukraine. (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.

Ready to push for local ceasefires in Ukraine, says Turkey

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.

The salt-mining city of Soledar in eastern Ukraine, which has been the latest flashpoint in the ongoing war, is now controlled by Ukraine, an official said on Saturday (January 14), adding the fighting is still going on. "Soledar is controlled by Ukrainian authorities, our military controls it," regional governor Pavlo Kyrylenko said on national television, news agency AFP reported. Kyrylenko said battles continue inside and outside the city. The regional governor added that Soledar and the nearby city of Bakhmut were the hottest spots on the frontline. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/on-eve-of-first-anniversary-of-ukraine-war-zelensky-wants-to-visit-un-and-address-general-assembly-552577">Zelensky wants to address UN General Assembly when Russian invasion completes one year</a>

For days, Soledar has been the focus of a relentless Russian assault. Ukraine's claim on Saturday comes a day after Russia said that its forces took control of the city. "The capture of Soledar was made possible by the constant bombardment of the enemy by assault and army aviation, missile forces and artillery of a grouping of Russian forces, "the defence ministry said in a statement on Friday. The ministry said that seizing Soledar would make it possible to cut off Ukrainian supply routes to Bakhmut and trap remaining Ukrainian forces there.&nbsp;

Ukraine has repeatedly denied Russia's claims of capturing the salt-mining city.&nbsp;

Both Soledar and Bakhmut come under the Donetsk region, which Russia unilaterally claimed to have annexed in September last year despite only partly occupying it. The capture of Donetsk is being seen as a war objective of the Kremlin, a report by news agency Reuters on Saturday said.&nbsp;

However, Ukraine's allies in the West see the capture of the two cities as a fight for marginal gains on a stretch of the front where neither side can make a big breakthrough. "Even if both Bakhmut and Soledar fall to the Russians, it's not going to have a strategic impact on the war itself," US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters at the White House.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, on Saturday, the United Kingdom's (UK) Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said that his government would provide tanks to Ukraine to push Russian troops. Sunak pledged to supply Challenger 2 tanks and additional artillery systems. This makes the UK the first Western power to supply Kyiv with main battle tanks, the PA news agency reported. Last week, France, Germany and the United States pledged to send armoured fighting vehicles.&nbsp;

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Always strong support of the UK is now impenetrable and ready for challenges. In a conversation with the Prime Minister, <a href="https://twitter.com/RishiSunak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishiSunak</a>, I thanked for the decisions that will not only strengthen us on the battlefield, but also send the right signal to other partners.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, meanwhile, welcomed Britain's decision by tweeting, "In a conversation with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, I thanked (him) for the decisions that will not only strengthen us on the battlefield but also send the right signal to other partners."

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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. The salt-mining city of Soledar in eastern Ukraine, which has been the latest flashpoint in the ongoing war, is now controlled by Ukraine, an official said on Saturday (January 14), adding the fighting is still going on. "Soledar is controlled by Ukrainian authorities, our military controls it," regional governor Pavlo Kyrylenko said on national television, news agency AFP reported. Kyrylenko said battles continue inside and outside the city. The regional governor added that Soledar and the nearby city of Bakhmut were the hottest spots on the frontline. ALSO READ | Zelensky wants to address UN General Assembly when Russian invasion completes one year For days, Soledar has been the focus of a relentless Russian assault. Ukraine's claim on Saturday comes a day after Russia said that its forces took control of the city. "The capture of Soledar was made possible by the constant bombardment of the enemy by assault and army aviation, missile forces and artillery of a grouping of Russian forces, "the defence ministry said in a statement on Friday. The ministry said that seizing Soledar would make it possible to cut off Ukrainian supply routes to Bakhmut and trap remaining Ukrainian forces there. Ukraine has repeatedly denied Russia's claims of capturing the salt-mining city. Both Soledar and Bakhmut come under the Donetsk region, which Russia unilaterally claimed to have annexed in September last year despite only partly occupying it. The capture of Donetsk is being seen as a war objective of the Kremlin, a report by news agency Reuters on Saturday said. However, Ukraine's allies in the West see the capture of the two cities as a fight for marginal gains on a stretch of the front where neither side can make a big breakthrough. "Even if both Bakhmut and Soledar fall to the Russians, it's not going to have a strategic impact on the war itself," US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters at the White House. Meanwhile, on Saturday, the United Kingdom's (UK) Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said that his government would provide tanks to Ukraine to push Russian troops. Sunak pledged to supply Challenger 2 tanks and additional artillery systems. This makes the UK the first Western power to supply Kyiv with main battle tanks, the PA news agency reported. Last week, France, Germany and the United States pledged to send armoured fighting vehicles. Always strong support of the UK is now impenetrable and ready for challenges. In a conversation with the Prime Minister, @RishiSunak, I thanked for the decisions that will not only strengthen us on the battlefield, but also send the right signal to other partners. — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) January 14, 2023 × Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, meanwhile, welcomed Britain's decision by tweeting, "In a conversation with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, I thanked (him) for the decisions that will not only strengthen us on the battlefield but also send the right signal to other partners." 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: Soledar city 'controlled' by Kyiv, fighting ongoing, says report

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wants to visit the United Nations (UN) to address a high-level meeting of the 193-member General Assembly on the eve of the first anniversary of Russia's February 24 offensive, a senior foreign official from&nbsp;Ukraine's foreign ministry told news agency Associated Press on Friday (January 13). Ukraine's first deputy foreign minister Emine Dzhaparova said that President Zelensky would want to come to the UN, adding he has a will or intention to come. “But it’s still a question if there will be a security situation that will allow him (Zelensky) to come, Dzhaparova added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-praises-wagner-forces-ukraine-denies-moscows-claim-of-soledar-liberation-552470">Russia praises Wagner forces, Ukraine denies Moscow's claim of Soledar 'liberation'</a>

The first deputy foreign minister said that Ukraine would like to see the General Assembly adopt one of the two resolutions that President Zelensky wants to be approved on the eve of the anniversary of the Russian offensive. She added the government is consulting with its partners on the two measures,&nbsp;one that would support Zelensky's10-point peace formula and the second that would establish a tribunal to prosecute crimes of aggression, which would enable Russia to be held accountable for its offensive, the Associated Press report said.&nbsp;

Sergiy Kyslytsya,&nbsp;the Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the UN,&nbsp;said the General Assembly has already scheduled a debate on the war on February 23. This would be followed by a ministerial meeting of the Security Council the next day. Last month, Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba told the Associated Press that his government wanted a peace summit in the UN by the end of February with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres as mediator. However, Kuleba did not anticipate Moscow taking part.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH | Ukraine denies to Russia's claim, says severe fighting in Soledar

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First deputy foreign minister Emine Dzhaparova said on Friday that a summit was under discussion and stressed the fact that it was not a negotiation. On the other hand, Ukraine's UN ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya said he did not think that Russian President Vladimir Putin would allow anyone to attend a summit as it did not go along with his plan that Moscow's territorial gains were non-negotiable, the report added.&nbsp;

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If Volodymyr Zelensky does visit the UN on the eve of the anniversary of the offensive, it will be his second trip outside Ukraine since the war started. Last month, he visited the United States to meet President Joe Biden and members of Congress. Zelensky thanked the US for its support while Joe Biden promised him that Ukraine will never stand alone. Biden pledged that his government would lend its support against "Russian aggression" for "as long as it takes."

In the latest news on the war, missiles struck key infrastructure facilities in Ukraine's capital city Kyiv on Saturday (January 14) with mayor Vitali Klitschko urging residents to stay in shelters, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wants to visit the United Nations (UN) to address a high-level meeting of the 193-member General Assembly on the eve of the first anniversary of Russia's February 24 offensive, a senior foreign official from Ukraine's foreign ministry told news agency Associated Press on Friday (January 13).

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wants to visit the United Nations (UN) to address a high-level meeting of the 193-member General Assembly on the eve of the first anniversary of Russia's February 24 offensive, a senior foreign official from Ukraine's foreign ministry told news agency Associated Press on Friday (January 13). Ukraine's first deputy foreign minister Emine Dzhaparova said that President Zelensky would want to come to the UN, adding he has a will or intention to come. “But it’s still a question if there will be a security situation that will allow him (Zelensky) to come, Dzhaparova added. ALSO READ | Russia praises Wagner forces, Ukraine denies Moscow's claim of Soledar 'liberation' The first deputy foreign minister said that Ukraine would like to see the General Assembly adopt one of the two resolutions that President Zelensky wants to be approved on the eve of the anniversary of the Russian offensive. She added the government is consulting with its partners on the two measures, one that would support Zelensky's10-point peace formula and the second that would establish a tribunal to prosecute crimes of aggression, which would enable Russia to be held accountable for its offensive, the Associated Press report said. Sergiy Kyslytsya, the Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the UN, said the General Assembly has already scheduled a debate on the war on February 23. This would be followed by a ministerial meeting of the Security Council the next day. Last month, Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba told the Associated Press that his government wanted a peace summit in the UN by the end of February with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres as mediator. However, Kuleba did not anticipate Moscow taking part. ALSO WATCH | Ukraine denies to Russia's claim, says severe fighting in Soledar × First deputy foreign minister Emine Dzhaparova said on Friday that a summit was under discussion and stressed the fact that it was not a negotiation. On the other hand, Ukraine's UN ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya said he did not think that Russian President Vladimir Putin would allow anyone to attend a summit as it did not go along with his plan that Moscow's territorial gains were non-negotiable, the report added. ALSO READ | Putin appoints new commander to lead Ukraine invasion, demoting 'General Armageddon' If Volodymyr Zelensky does visit the UN on the eve of the anniversary of the offensive, it will be his second trip outside Ukraine since the war started. Last month, he visited the United States to meet President Joe Biden and members of Congress. Zelensky thanked the US for its support while Joe Biden promised him that Ukraine will never stand alone. Biden pledged that his government would lend its support against "Russian aggression" for "as long as it takes." In the latest news on the war, missiles struck key infrastructure facilities in Ukraine's capital city Kyiv on Saturday (January 14) with mayor Vitali Klitschko urging residents to stay in shelters, news agency AFP reported. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zelensky wants to address UN General Assembly when Russian invasion completes one year

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. Russia has warned that Belarus may also enter the ongoing war in Ukraine if Kyiv decides to "invade" either country. Russian foreign ministry official said on Friday that Belarus and Russia's joint drills aimed at preventing escalation. In an interview with state media, foreign ministry official Aleksey Polishchuk warned that Belarus may join the Ukraine conflict if it or Russia were invaded. Polishchuk told the TASS news agency: "From a legal point of view, the use of military force by the Kyiv regime or the invasion of the territory of Belarus or Russia by the armed forces of Ukraine are sufficient grounds for a collective response." The official further mentioned that it was up to the leaders of the two countries to make that decision. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday said that the military troops of his country must "be ready" at its border with Belarus. Watch this report: × Zelensky said, "We understand that apart from powerful statements, we do not see anything powerful there, but nevertheless we must be ready both at the border and in the regions." Meanwhile, Russia on Friday said that it had taken control of Soledar, a town in eastern Ukraine that has been a hotspot of fighting in Moscow's offensive, but Kyiv denied it strongly. "On the evening of January 12, the liberation of the city of Soledar was completed, which is important for the continuation of successful offensive operations" in Donetsk, the Russian defence ministry said. 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.

Belarus may enter ongoing Russia-Ukraine war if ‘invaded’, claims Moscow

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday (January 12) said that Ukrainian troops were still holding out against pro-Russia forces in Soledar, the salt mining town in eastern Ukraine. More than 500 civilians including children are trapped there.&nbsp;In a video address, Zelensky thanked two units in Soledar that he said "are holding their positions and inflicting significant losses on the enemy." He did not give more details.

He said that he, along with senior commanders of the Ukrainian military analysed need for reinforcements in Soledar and nearby towns.

Russia's ultra-nationalist contract militia Wagner Group, run by an ally of President Vladimir Putin, had earlier claimed to have taken Soledar after intense fighting that it said left the town strewn with Ukrainian dead.

Watch | Why is Russia replacing its top military commander in Ukraine again?

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Moscow however, had then officially restrained from proclaiming a victory, which would be its first significant gain in six months, and said the fighting is on.

"At the moment, there are still some small pockets of resistance in Soledar," Andrei Bayevsky, a Russian-installed local politician, said in an online broadcast.

On Friday (January 13), however,&nbsp;Lt. Gen. Igor Konashenkov, who is the Russian Defence Ministry's spokesman, said: "The liberation of the town of Soledar was completed in the evening of January 12."&nbsp;

Konashenkov added that the development was important for the continuation of offensive operations in the Donetsk region.&nbsp;Konashenkov further said that taking control of Soledar would allow Russian forces to cut supply lines for the Ukrainian forces in the Donestsk city of Bakhmut and then block and encircle the Ukrainian units there.&nbsp;

Reuters said it was unable to independently verify the situation.

Donetsk governor Pavlo Kyrylenko told Ukrainian state TV that 559 civilians remained in Soledar, including 15 children, and could not be evacuated from the community that had a pre-war population of about 10,000.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday (January 12) said that Ukrainian troops were still holding out against pro-Russia forces in Soledar, the salt mining town in eastern Ukraine.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday (January 12) said that Ukrainian troops were still holding out against pro-Russia forces in Soledar, the salt mining town in eastern Ukraine. More than 500 civilians including children are trapped there. In a video address, Zelensky thanked two units in Soledar that he said "are holding their positions and inflicting significant losses on the enemy." He did not give more details. He said that he, along with senior commanders of the Ukrainian military analysed need for reinforcements in Soledar and nearby towns. Russia's ultra-nationalist contract militia Wagner Group, run by an ally of President Vladimir Putin, had earlier claimed to have taken Soledar after intense fighting that it said left the town strewn with Ukrainian dead. Watch | Why is Russia replacing its top military commander in Ukraine again? × Moscow however, had then officially restrained from proclaiming a victory, which would be its first significant gain in six months, and said the fighting is on. "At the moment, there are still some small pockets of resistance in Soledar," Andrei Bayevsky, a Russian-installed local politician, said in an online broadcast. On Friday (January 13), however, Lt. Gen. Igor Konashenkov, who is the Russian Defence Ministry's spokesman, said: "The liberation of the town of Soledar was completed in the evening of January 12." Konashenkov added that the development was important for the continuation of offensive operations in the Donetsk region. Konashenkov further said that taking control of Soledar would allow Russian forces to cut supply lines for the Ukrainian forces in the Donestsk city of Bakhmut and then block and encircle the Ukrainian units there. Reuters said it was unable to independently verify the situation. Donetsk governor Pavlo Kyrylenko told Ukrainian state TV that 559 civilians remained in Soledar, including 15 children, and could not be evacuated from the community that had a pre-war population of about 10,000. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukrainian forces still holding out in Soledar, claims Zelensky

Russia has once again replaced its military commander in Ukraine putting army chief of staff Valery Gerasimov in charge of its forces in the conflict. Watch this to know more.

Why is Russia replacing its top military commander in Ukraine again?

Russia replaces military commander in Ukraine again

Ambulance workers in the United Kingdom (UK) went on strike on Wednesday (January 11) over better pay with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak telling Parliament that the walkout is terrifying for patients. Another such strike will take place on January 23. In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said that its Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) system has been fully restored, hours after it experienced a major technical glitch. And in Afghanistan, over 20 people were killed and eight were injured in a suicide blast outside the country's foreign ministry in Kabul.&nbsp;

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Around 25,000 ambulance workers in the United Kingdom (UK) went on a strike on Wednesday (January 11) over pay and working conditions. This is the second time since ambulance workers walked out and a third such strike is expected on January 23.

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The Federal Aviation Administration on Wednesday announced that its&nbsp;NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions) system— which alerts pilots and crew to advisories and information for flights— has been fully restored and the ground stop has been lifted, hours after it experienced a major technical glitch.

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More than 20 people are reported to have been killed in a suicide bomb attack outside&nbsp;the Afghanistan&nbsp;foreign ministry office in Kabul on Wednesday.&nbsp;An explosion near the headquarters of the Afghan Foreign Ministry in Kabul killed over 20 and injured around eight, according to AP reports. Sources say&nbsp;a meeting was taking place&nbsp;inside the MoFA&nbsp;building.&nbsp;

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The Russian army on Wednesday (January 11) countered mercenary group Wagner's claim a day back that its fighters had taken control of the Soledar City in Ukraine. Issuing a statement, the Russian army said the battle for Soledar is ongoing, adding assault squads were fighting in the city, a report by news agency AFP said.&nbsp;Earlier, Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin claimed late Tuesday that the group took control of the entire territory of the city.

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Sepideh Qolian, on of Iran's most prominent women activist has described the torture and interrogation that has been taking place in Iran's notorious Evin prison. BBC reported that Qolian has written a letter from inside the jail. She is serving a five-year jail sentence handed in 2018 for what the courts termed actions 'against national security.' At the time, she had supported a strike.

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'Naatu Naatu' song from the hit Telugu film 'RRR', which featured Ram Charan and Jr NTR in lead roles, bagged a Golden Globe trophy on Tuesday. The song was shot at&nbsp;Ukraine President Volodymyr&nbsp;Zelensky's official residence in 2021.

Ambulance workers in the United Kingdom (UK) went on strike on Wednesday (January 11) over better pay with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak telling Parliament that the walkout is terrifying for patients.

Ambulance workers in the United Kingdom (UK) went on strike on Wednesday (January 11) over better pay with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak telling Parliament that the walkout is terrifying for patients. Another such strike will take place on January 23. In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said that its Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) system has been fully restored, hours after it experienced a major technical glitch. And in Afghanistan, over 20 people were killed and eight were injured in a suicide blast outside the country's foreign ministry in Kabul. Click on the headlines to read more: UK ambulance workers go on strike, PM calls walkout 'terrifying for patients' Around 25,000 ambulance workers in the United Kingdom (UK) went on a strike on Wednesday (January 11) over pay and working conditions. This is the second time since ambulance workers walked out and a third such strike is expected on January 23. US: FAA says system restored after more than 3,700 flights grounded due to technical snag The Federal Aviation Administration on Wednesday announced that its NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions) system— which alerts pilots and crew to advisories and information for flights— has been fully restored and the ground stop has been lifted, hours after it experienced a major technical glitch. Afghanistan: Over 20 killed in suicide bomb blast outside foreign ministry in Kabul More than 20 people are reported to have been killed in a suicide bomb attack outside the Afghanistan foreign ministry office in Kabul on Wednesday. An explosion near the headquarters of the Afghan Foreign Ministry in Kabul killed over 20 and injured around eight, according to AP reports. Sources say a meeting was taking place inside the MoFA building. Russia responds to Wagner’s claim of control over Soledar, says fight for city ongoing The Russian army on Wednesday (January 11) countered mercenary group Wagner's claim a day back that its fighters had taken control of the Soledar City in Ukraine. Issuing a statement, the Russian army said the battle for Soledar is ongoing, adding assault squads were fighting in the city, a report by news agency AFP said. Earlier, Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin claimed late Tuesday that the group took control of the entire territory of the city. H&M, Zara among brands accused of unfairly treating Bangladesh suppliers, paid them less than production costs During the pandemic, Lidl, Zara's owners Inditex, H&M, and Next are alleged to have paid Bangladeshi apparel suppliers less than production costs, making it difficult for factories to meet the nation's minimum wage requirements. Iran: Jailed activist Sepideh Qolian writes letter describing brutality in prison Sepideh Qolian, on of Iran's most prominent women activist has described the torture and interrogation that has been taking place in Iran's notorious Evin prison. BBC reported that Qolian has written a letter from inside the jail. She is serving a five-year jail sentence handed in 2018 for what the courts termed actions 'against national security.' At the time, she had supported a strike. Iran, Russia working on new trade route with India to bypass Western sanctions: Report Back in 2002, Iran, Russia and India signed an agreement for the construction of the International North-South Transport Corridor, connecting India and Russia through Iran and Azerbaijan, bypassing the Suez Canal. Ahead of watchdog report, Indonesian president admits to country's human rights violation record Indonesian president Joko Widodo's noted admission about country's human rights violations came a day ahead of Human Rights Watch report on state of human rights across 100 countries worldwide. WWE, world’s largest pro-wrestling company, SOLD to Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund - Report WWE, the world's largest pro-wrestling company, has reportedly been bought by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. As per DAZN's Steven Muehlhausen of DAZN, WWE "will go back to being private" for the first time since October 1999. 'Naatu Naatu' shot outside Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky's palace, reveals 'RRR' director SS Rajamouli 'Naatu Naatu' song from the hit Telugu film 'RRR', which featured Ram Charan and Jr NTR in lead roles, bagged a Golden Globe trophy on Tuesday. The song was shot at Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky's official residence in 2021.

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The Russian army on Wednesday (January 11) countered mercenary group Wagner's claim a day back that its fighters had taken control of the Soledar City in Ukraine. Issuing a statement, the Russian army said the battle for Soledar is ongoing, adding assault squads were fighting in the city, a report by news agency AFP said.&nbsp;The army said its forces blocked Soledar from the&nbsp;northern and southern areas and that the air force was striking enemy households.&nbsp;

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Earlier, Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin claimed late Tuesday that the group took control of the entire territory of the city. Prigozhin added the number of captives would be announced on Wednesday but there is no update yet. The Wagner chief also published a photograph of himself in military uniform surrounded by the group's fighters.&nbsp;

Before the Russian army's response, the Ukrainian government denied Wagner's claim of taking control of Soledar.&nbsp;"Soledar&nbsp;was, is and will be Ukrainian," the strategic communications branch of the Ukrainian military said in a statement, an earlier AFP report said.&nbsp;The branch said that photographs released by Wagner&nbsp;that Russian media said were taken in&nbsp;Soledar&nbsp;had been taken elsewhere.

ALSO WATCH | German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock visits Kharkiv

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As the war in Ukraine continues, the Russian military struck Kharkiv city in eastern Ukraine on Tuesday, just hours after a visit by German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock.

Taking to Telegram, regional governor Oleg Synegubov warned Kharkiv's residents to stay in shelters as occupiers were bombing again. The city has faced heavy bombardment since the beginning of Russia's offensive in Ukraine in February last year. &nbsp;

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German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock became the first highest-level Western official to visit Kharkiv, AFP reported. Baerbock vowed further German support for Ukraine and stressed that her government will keep supplying weapons that Ukraine needs to free its citizens who are still suffering under the terror of Russian occupation.

The German foreign minister provided Ukraine with the following- a &nbsp;"further help package" of power generators, 20 million euros ($21 million) for demining and 20 million euros as financial help for the Starlink project ensuring internet access.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Russian army on Wednesday (January 11) countered mercenary group Wagner's claim a day back that its fighters had taken control of the Soledar City in Ukraine.

The Russian army on Wednesday (January 11) countered mercenary group Wagner's claim a day back that its fighters had taken control of the Soledar City in Ukraine. Issuing a statement, the Russian army said the battle for Soledar is ongoing, adding assault squads were fighting in the city, a report by news agency AFP said. The army said its forces blocked Soledar from the northern and southern areas and that the air force was striking enemy households. ALSO READ | Germany, US to supply armoured combat vehicles to Ukraine Earlier, Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin claimed late Tuesday that the group took control of the entire territory of the city. Prigozhin added the number of captives would be announced on Wednesday but there is no update yet. The Wagner chief also published a photograph of himself in military uniform surrounded by the group's fighters. Before the Russian army's response, the Ukrainian government denied Wagner's claim of taking control of Soledar. "Soledar was, is and will be Ukrainian," the strategic communications branch of the Ukrainian military said in a statement, an earlier AFP report said. The branch said that photographs released by Wagner that Russian media said were taken in Soledar had been taken elsewhere. ALSO WATCH | German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock visits Kharkiv As the war in Ukraine continues, the Russian military struck Kharkiv city in eastern Ukraine on Tuesday, just hours after a visit by German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock. Taking to Telegram, regional governor Oleg Synegubov warned Kharkiv's residents to stay in shelters as occupiers were bombing again. The city has faced heavy bombardment since the beginning of Russia's offensive in Ukraine in February last year. ALSO READ | 'Give Ukraine weapons': Is the western press asking same, agenda-driven, motivated questions? German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock became the first highest-level Western official to visit Kharkiv, AFP reported. Baerbock vowed further German support for Ukraine and stressed that her government will keep supplying weapons that Ukraine needs to free its citizens who are still suffering under the terror of Russian occupation. The German foreign minister provided Ukraine with the following- a "further help package" of power generators, 20 million euros ($21 million) for demining and 20 million euros as financial help for the Starlink project ensuring internet access. (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 responds to Wagner’s claim of control over Soledar, says fight for city ongoing

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. Russia on Sunday (January 8) said that its army conducted a "retaliatory strike" in the eastern Ukrainian city of Kramatrosk to avenge the deaths of 89 Russian troops killed in Makiivka. The Russian defence ministry said in a statement that "more than 600 Ukrainian servicemen were killed" as a result of a strike on Kyiv troops stationed in two buildings in Kramatorsk. This comes after Moscow ended a Christmas ceasefire in Ukraine between January 6 and 7. Russia further vowed to push on with combat until it reaches a victory over its neighbour. Watch this report: × Russia's claims of killing hundreds of Ukrainian servicemen have not been verified by Ukraine. In fact, the mayor of Kramatorsk said earlier on Sunday on Facebook that nobody had been killed in an attack on various buildings in the city. The Russian defence ministry further said that it had used reliable intelligence to target the Ukrainian troops. The statement also mentioned that more than 700 Ukrainian troops had been housed in one hostel and more than 600 in another. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine war: Russia claims it killed over '600 Ukrainian servicemen' in 'retaliatory strike' in Kramatorsk

A top official from China's National Health Commission (NHC) said that emergency and severe Covid cases may peak in small and medium-sized cities. This comes as the government reopened its borders and ended quarantine requirements for overseas travellers despite the worsening pandemic situation in China. As the war in Ukraine continues, Russia said it conducted a retaliatory strike on Kramatorsk to avenge the deaths of 89 Russian troops killed in Makiivka. And Swedish Prime Minister&nbsp;Ulf Kristersson said that his country&nbsp;cannot accept some demands of Turkiye for NATO membership.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/severe-covid-cases-may-peak-in-chinas-small-medium-sized-cities-official-550530">Severe Covid cases may peak in China's small, medium-sized cities: Official</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/08/323959-000336n9qy.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

&nbsp;

Jiao Yahui, an official from China's National Health Commission (NHC), said the demand for emergency and critical care in China's large cities had likely peaked, but the Lunar New Year travel could trigger faster-rising cases in smaller cities and rural areas.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russia-conducts-retaliatory-strike-in-kramatorsk-for-makiivka-attack-550503">Ukraine war: Russia claims it killed over '600 Ukrainian servicemen' in 'retaliatory strike' in Kramatorsk</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/08/323940-russian-strike.png?imwidth=1920" />

Russia on Sunday (January 8) said that its army has conducted a "retaliatory strike" in the eastern Ukrainian city of Kramatrosk to avenge the deaths of 89 Russian troops killed in Makiivka. The defence ministry said&nbsp;"more than 600 Ukrainian servicemen were killed" as a result of a strike on Kyiv troops stationed in two buildings in Kramatorsk.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-cannot-accept-some-demands-of-turkiye-for-nato-membership-pm-550526">Sweden cannot accept some demands of Turkiye for NATO membership: PM</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/08/323957-untitled-design-2023-01-08t192506881.png?imwidth=1920" />

The military non-alignment of a decade was broken by Sweden and Finland as they applied for joining NATO, the US-led defence alliance after Russia invaded Ukraine in February. However, their bids have been blocked by Turkiye which insists that both countries must join Ankara in its fight against banned Kurdish militants.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-workers-clash-with-police-amidst-massive-protest-at-covid-antigen-factory-in-china-550480">Watch: Workers clash with police amidst massive protest at Covid antigen factory in China</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/08/323931-china.png?imwidth=1920" />

Scores of people holding a demonstration at a factory producing Covid-19 antigen kits clashed with the police, several videos that went viral on social media on Sunday showed.&nbsp;The incident took place on Saturday when the workers were protesting for wages and against layoff by the manufacturer, Zybio, in the central municipality of Chongqing.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-arrest-three-more-in-murder-of-kenya-lgbtq-activist-edwin-chiloba-550491">Police arrest three more in murder of Kenya LGBTQ activist Edwin Chiloba</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/08/323935-2023-01-06t162050z1lynxmpej050ifrtroptp4kenya-crime.JPG?imwidth=1920" />

The Kenya police on Saturday (January 7) arrested three more suspects in the murder of 25-year-old LGBTQ rights activist Edwin Chiloba. These three suspects have been arrested for their alleged role in disposing of Chiloba's remains.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senegal-at-least-38-dead-and-more-that-85-injured-in-bus-accident-550469">Senegal: 38 killed, more than 85 injured in bus accident, govt declares national mourning of 3 days</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/08/323956-senegal.png?imwidth=1920" />

As many as&nbsp;38&nbsp;people died and 87 were injured in one of the deadliest road accidents&nbsp;when two buses collided near Kaffrine in central Senegal on Sunday (January&nbsp;8), a&nbsp;fire brigade official in Senegal told the news agency AFP.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-iranian-man-suspected-of-chemical-attack-plot-arrested-550451">Germany: Iranian man, suspected of chemical attack plot, arrested</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/41369-596501-handcuff-20180214063942.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

A 32-year-old Iranian man was arrested in western Germany on suspicion of planning an attack with deadly chemicals, according to police officials on Sunday (January 8). An official statement said the police officers searched a residence in the Castrop-Rauxel town for "toxic substances" intended to carry out an attack.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/response-should-have-been-much-swifter-says-tata-sons-chairman-44-days-after-air-india-pee-gate-550468">Response should have been much swifter, says Tata Sons chairman after Air India ‘pee-gate’</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/08/323926-untitled-design-2023-01-08t160341878.png?imwidth=1920" />

Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran issued a media statement over the 'peeing' incident that took place in a Air India flight between New York and New Delhi, when a passenger Shankar Mishra allegedly urinated on an elderly woman co-passenger on November 26, 2022.&nbsp;Chandrasekaran accepted that Air India should have responded to the situation more swiftly.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-can-india-qualify-for-the-finals-of-wtc-following-australias-2-0-win-over-south-africa-550498">How can India qualify for the finals of WTC following Australia's 2-0 win over South Africa</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/08/323938-untitled-design-35.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

While Australia is ranked number one on the WTC points table with a PCT of 75.56%, second -placed India could leapfrog them if they beat them 4-0 at home in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/prince-harry-reveals-cruel-fight-with-meghan-led-him-to-therapy-550496">Prince Harry reveals ‘cruel’ fight with Meghan led him to therapy</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/08/323937-happy-30th-birthday-2023-01-08t180824618.png?imwidth=1920" />

Prince Harry and his memoir 'Spare'&nbsp;are currently the hottest topics on the internet right now. Among other shocking details, the Duke revealed the incident that prompted him to seek therapy. In his book, Harry&nbsp;recalled the heated conversation with his wife Meghan after he "snapped" at her.&nbsp;

A top official from China's National Health Commission (NHC) said that emergency and severe Covid cases may peak in small and medium-sized cities. This comes as the government reopened its borders and ended quarantine requirements for overseas travellers despite the worsening pandemic situation in China.

A top official from China's National Health Commission (NHC) said that emergency and severe Covid cases may peak in small and medium-sized cities. This comes as the government reopened its borders and ended quarantine requirements for overseas travellers despite the worsening pandemic situation in China. As the war in Ukraine continues, Russia said it conducted a retaliatory strike on Kramatorsk to avenge the deaths of 89 Russian troops killed in Makiivka. And Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said that his country cannot accept some demands of Turkiye for NATO membership. Click on the headlines to read more: Severe Covid cases may peak in China's small, medium-sized cities: Official Jiao Yahui, an official from China's National Health Commission (NHC), said the demand for emergency and critical care in China's large cities had likely peaked, but the Lunar New Year travel could trigger faster-rising cases in smaller cities and rural areas. Ukraine war: Russia claims it killed over '600 Ukrainian servicemen' in 'retaliatory strike' in Kramatorsk Russia on Sunday (January 8) said that its army has conducted a "retaliatory strike" in the eastern Ukrainian city of Kramatrosk to avenge the deaths of 89 Russian troops killed in Makiivka. The defence ministry said "more than 600 Ukrainian servicemen were killed" as a result of a strike on Kyiv troops stationed in two buildings in Kramatorsk. Sweden cannot accept some demands of Turkiye for NATO membership: PM The military non-alignment of a decade was broken by Sweden and Finland as they applied for joining NATO, the US-led defence alliance after Russia invaded Ukraine in February. However, their bids have been blocked by Turkiye which insists that both countries must join Ankara in its fight against banned Kurdish militants. Watch: Workers clash with police amidst massive protest at Covid antigen factory in China Scores of people holding a demonstration at a factory producing Covid-19 antigen kits clashed with the police, several videos that went viral on social media on Sunday showed. The incident took place on Saturday when the workers were protesting for wages and against layoff by the manufacturer, Zybio, in the central municipality of Chongqing. Police arrest three more in murder of Kenya LGBTQ activist Edwin Chiloba The Kenya police on Saturday (January 7) arrested three more suspects in the murder of 25-year-old LGBTQ rights activist Edwin Chiloba. These three suspects have been arrested for their alleged role in disposing of Chiloba's remains. Senegal: 38 killed, more than 85 injured in bus accident, govt declares national mourning of 3 days As many as 38 people died and 87 were injured in one of the deadliest road accidents when two buses collided near Kaffrine in central Senegal on Sunday (January 8), a fire brigade official in Senegal told the news agency AFP. Germany: Iranian man, suspected of chemical attack plot, arrested A 32-year-old Iranian man was arrested in western Germany on suspicion of planning an attack with deadly chemicals, according to police officials on Sunday (January 8). An official statement said the police officers searched a residence in the Castrop-Rauxel town for "toxic substances" intended to carry out an attack. Response should have been much swifter, says Tata Sons chairman after Air India ‘pee-gate’ Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran issued a media statement over the 'peeing' incident that took place in a Air India flight between New York and New Delhi, when a passenger Shankar Mishra allegedly urinated on an elderly woman co-passenger on November 26, 2022. Chandrasekaran accepted that Air India should have responded to the situation more swiftly. How can India qualify for the finals of WTC following Australia's 2-0 win over South Africa While Australia is ranked number one on the WTC points table with a PCT of 75.56%, second -placed India could leapfrog them if they beat them 4-0 at home in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series. Prince Harry reveals ‘cruel’ fight with Meghan led him to therapy Prince Harry and his memoir 'Spare' are currently the hottest topics on the internet right now. Among other shocking details, the Duke revealed the incident that prompted him to seek therapy. In his book, Harry recalled the heated conversation with his wife Meghan after he "snapped" at her.

Top 10 world news: Severe Covid cases may peak in China's smaller cities & more

The United States on January 6 announced $3 billion in military assistance for Ukraine amid the ongoing war with Vladimir Putin-led Russia. The White House said that the package will feature Bradley armoured vehicles.

U.S. announces $3 billion in aid package for Ukraine amid war

China's Twitter-like platform Weibo has banned 1,120 accounts of people criticising the government's Covid policy. These Weibo users have been either permanently or temporarily banned from accessing their accounts. In the United States, Republican Kevin McCarthy became the next speaker of Congress after 15 rounds of voting. And as the war in Ukraine will soon complete a year, Crimean city Sevastopol's Russian-installed governor Mikhail Razvozhaev said that a drone was shot down by air defences. This claim was made as Russian President Vladimir Putin marked Orthodox Christmas at a Moscow church after he declared a unilateral ceasefire.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-weibo-bans-1000-accounts-critical-of-govts-covid-policy-550296">China’s Weibo bans more than 1,000 accounts critical of govt’s Covid policy</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/07/323811-china.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

China’s Twitter-like social media firm, Weibo, has banned more than 1,000 social media accounts considered by the government as critiques of Xi Jinping’s Covid-19 policy.&nbsp;About 1,120 Weibo users were either permanently or temporarily banned from accessing their accounts over "personal attacks" and “inciting conflict” against the country’s health experts.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-kevin-mccarthy-became-us-house-speaker-after-historic-15-rounds-of-voting-550290">Kevin McCarthy became US House speaker after historic 15 rounds of voting: Here's what happened</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/07/323807-wion-images-2.png?imwidth=1920" />

After four contentious days, 15 rounds of voting, and the fifth longest contest in history, the United States House of Representatives has finally chosen California Republican, Kevin McCarthy as the next speaker of the Congress. The final round of voting&nbsp;took place between late Friday and early Saturday (January 7).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/crimean-governor-claims-drone-shot-over-sevastopol-as-putin-marks-orthodox-christmas-550294">Crimean governor claims Ukraine drone shot over Sevastopol as Putin marks Orthodox Christmas</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/07/323809-untitled-design-2023-01-07t172214424.png?imwidth=1920" />

Crimean Governor Razvozhaev&nbsp;claimed&nbsp;that a Ukrainian drone&nbsp;were shot down in the wee hours of January 7, the day of Orthodox Christmas, as Russian President&nbsp;Vladimir Putin attended a midnight service&nbsp;alone at a church in Moscow&nbsp;after declaring a unilateral ceasefire.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/irans-supreme-leader-khamenei-appoints-new-police-chief-amid-protests-550305">Iran's supreme leader Khamenei appoints new police chief amid protests</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/07/323817-untitled-design-2023-01-07t180230996.png?imwidth=1920" />

Supreme leader of Iran Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday appointed a new police chief, almost four months after the death of Mahsa Amini which triggered protests across the country. Khamenei&nbsp;appointed General Ahmad-Reza Radan (as the new police chief) who will replace Hossein Ashtari.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-prisoner-killed-over-60-wounded-after-riot-breaks-out-in-myanmar-jail-550283">One prisoner killed, over 60 wounded after riot breaks out in Myanmar jail</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/02/315222-jaillgeneric1x.jpeg?imwidth=1920" />

A riot broke out at a prison in Myanmar, killing one prisoner and injuring over 60 others, the junta said on Saturday (January 7). Issuing a statement, the junta said the riot at the prison in Pathein started after guards confiscated a mobile phone from a prisoner on Thursday night and took disciplinary action.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hillary-clinton-to-teach-global-affairs-at-columbia-university-550324">Hillary Clinton to teach Global Affairs at Columbia University</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/07/323831-untitled-design-14.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Former US secretary of state Hillary Clinton, who ran unsuccessfully for White House against Donald Trump in 2016, will join Columbia University as global affairs professor starting February 1.&nbsp;The official announcement came from Columbia University's president Lee Bollinger this week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jumpsuits-hijab-british-airways-revamps-uniform-for-first-time-in-nearly-20-years-550340">Jumpsuits, hijab: British Airways revamps uniform for first time in nearly 20 years</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/07/323843-ba.png?imwidth=1920" />

The cabin crew of British Airways, who have traditionally worn regular three-piece trouser and skirt sets, will now additionally feature in jumpsuits apart from giving the option to wear tunics and hijabs, as the airline is set to revamp its uniform for the first time in nearly 20 years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-reimposes-covid-entry-rules-in-wake-of-china-outbreak-550329">Thailand reimposes Covid entry rules in wake of China outbreak</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/07/323836-thai.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Thailand has decided to reintroduce Covid-19 entry norms for foreigners visiting the southeast Asian country in the wake of the explosion of cases in China.Transport minister Saksayam Chidchob in a statement said that the restrictions would be imposed starting from Monday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/injured-venus-williams-withdraws-her-name-from-australian-open-2023-550316">Injured Venus Williams withdraws her name from Australian Open 2023</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/07/323825-untitled-design-70.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Seven-time Grand Slam winner, USA’s Venus Williams has withdrawn her name from the upcoming 2023 Australian Open, the organisers of the tournament said in the tweet. The 42-year-old Venus was preparing for the first Grand Slam of the year by playing in the Auckland Classic, where she suffered an injury.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/billie-eilishs-stalker-who-broke-into-her-family-home-arrested-after-address-leak-550281">Billie Eilish's stalker, who broke into her family home, arrested after address leak</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/07/323801-untitled-design-2023-01-07t163141244.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

A stalker broke into American singer-songwriter Billie Eilish's childhood home located in Highland Park, California on Thursday. After law enforcement received a 911 call of a residential burglary by the housekeeper, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers&nbsp;reached the location and apprehended the suspect, who reportedly fought with the officers before he was taken into custody.

China's Twitter-like platform Weibo has banned 1,120 accounts of people criticising the government's Covid policy. These Weibo users have been either permanently or temporarily banned from accessing their accounts.

China's Twitter-like platform Weibo has banned 1,120 accounts of people criticising the government's Covid policy. These Weibo users have been either permanently or temporarily banned from accessing their accounts. In the United States, Republican Kevin McCarthy became the next speaker of Congress after 15 rounds of voting. And as the war in Ukraine will soon complete a year, Crimean city Sevastopol's Russian-installed governor Mikhail Razvozhaev said that a drone was shot down by air defences. This claim was made as Russian President Vladimir Putin marked Orthodox Christmas at a Moscow church after he declared a unilateral ceasefire. Click on the headlines to read more China’s Weibo bans more than 1,000 accounts critical of govt’s Covid policy China’s Twitter-like social media firm, Weibo, has banned more than 1,000 social media accounts considered by the government as critiques of Xi Jinping’s Covid-19 policy. About 1,120 Weibo users were either permanently or temporarily banned from accessing their accounts over "personal attacks" and “inciting conflict” against the country’s health experts. Kevin McCarthy became US House speaker after historic 15 rounds of voting: Here's what happened After four contentious days, 15 rounds of voting, and the fifth longest contest in history, the United States House of Representatives has finally chosen California Republican, Kevin McCarthy as the next speaker of the Congress. The final round of voting took place between late Friday and early Saturday (January 7). Crimean governor claims Ukraine drone shot over Sevastopol as Putin marks Orthodox Christmas Crimean Governor Razvozhaev claimed that a Ukrainian drone were shot down in the wee hours of January 7, the day of Orthodox Christmas, as Russian President Vladimir Putin attended a midnight service alone at a church in Moscow after declaring a unilateral ceasefire. Iran's supreme leader Khamenei appoints new police chief amid protests Supreme leader of Iran Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday appointed a new police chief, almost four months after the death of Mahsa Amini which triggered protests across the country. Khamenei appointed General Ahmad-Reza Radan (as the new police chief) who will replace Hossein Ashtari. One prisoner killed, over 60 wounded after riot breaks out in Myanmar jail A riot broke out at a prison in Myanmar, killing one prisoner and injuring over 60 others, the junta said on Saturday (January 7). Issuing a statement, the junta said the riot at the prison in Pathein started after guards confiscated a mobile phone from a prisoner on Thursday night and took disciplinary action. Hillary Clinton to teach Global Affairs at Columbia University Former US secretary of state Hillary Clinton, who ran unsuccessfully for White House against Donald Trump in 2016, will join Columbia University as global affairs professor starting February 1. The official announcement came from Columbia University's president Lee Bollinger this week. Jumpsuits, hijab: British Airways revamps uniform for first time in nearly 20 years The cabin crew of British Airways, who have traditionally worn regular three-piece trouser and skirt sets, will now additionally feature in jumpsuits apart from giving the option to wear tunics and hijabs, as the airline is set to revamp its uniform for the first time in nearly 20 years. Thailand reimposes Covid entry rules in wake of China outbreak Thailand has decided to reintroduce Covid-19 entry norms for foreigners visiting the southeast Asian country in the wake of the explosion of cases in China.Transport minister Saksayam Chidchob in a statement said that the restrictions would be imposed starting from Monday. Injured Venus Williams withdraws her name from Australian Open 2023 Seven-time Grand Slam winner, USA’s Venus Williams has withdrawn her name from the upcoming 2023 Australian Open, the organisers of the tournament said in the tweet. The 42-year-old Venus was preparing for the first Grand Slam of the year by playing in the Auckland Classic, where she suffered an injury. Billie Eilish's stalker, who broke into her family home, arrested after address leak A stalker broke into American singer-songwriter Billie Eilish's childhood home located in Highland Park, California on Thursday. After law enforcement received a 911 call of a residential burglary by the housekeeper, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers reached the location and apprehended the suspect, who reportedly fought with the officers before he was taken into custody.

Top 10 world news: Thailand reimposes Covid entry norms for foreigners amid China outbreak & more

The United Kingdom's (UK) Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab and Netherlands' Minister of Justice and Security Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius will host an international meeting in March to scale up the support being offered to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in its investigations of the alleged war crimes in Ukraine. According to a statement issued by the British government on Saturday (January 7), justice ministers from around the world will attend the meeting that will be held in the Lancaster House in London.&nbsp;

"The meeting comes as Russia steps up its campaign of terror against Ukraine, striking at crucial energy infrastructure and plunging people into the dark and freezing cold of winter. In reclaimed areas of Ukraine, prosecutors continue to gather evidence of atrocities and sexual violence," the statement said.&nbsp;

Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab, who is also UK's Justice Secretary, said that Russian forces should know they cannot act with impunity "and we will back Ukraine until justice is served."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-reports-fresh-strikes-as-putins-unilateral-ceasefire-starts-550022">Ukraine reports fresh strikes as Putin's unilateral ceasefire starts</a>

"Almost a year on from the illegal invasion, the international community must give its strongest backing to the ICC so war criminals can be held to account for the atrocities we’re witnessing," Raab added.&nbsp;

Dutch Justice and Security Minister Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius, meanwhile, said that reports and images of Moscow's unlawful and unprovoked armed attack on Ukraine are horrific, adding these crimes may not go unpunished, the statement said.&nbsp;

It added that the UK government continues to support Ukraine's domestic investigation and that around &nbsp;£400 million in economic and humanitarian grant support has been provided to the war-torn country.&nbsp;

"The UK has now provided £2.3 billion in military support to Ukraine in 2022 — more than any country other than the United States — and has already committed to sustain that level of military support into 2023," the statement also said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-announces-3-billion-in-aid-package-for-ukraine-including-bradley-armoured-vehicles-550147">US announces $3 billion in aid package for Ukraine, including Bradley armoured vehicles</a>

Russia's war in Ukraine will soon complete a year. On Saturday, hundreds of Ukrainian refugees observed their first Orthodox Christmas since fleeing Moscow's invasion.

In Ukraine's capital city of Kyiv, worshippers attended a historic service at the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra monastery amid tight security. A report by the news agency AFP said worshippers had their passports checked and had to walk through metal detectors.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-putin-orders-ceasefire-in-ukraine-on-january-6-7-549807">ordered a 36-hour ceasefire from midday on Friday</a> to observe Orthodox Christmas. However, Ukraine rejected the truce by saying it was a stunt by Moscow to get more time to reinforce troops which took heavy losses this week. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United Kingdom's (UK) Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab and Netherlands' Minister of Justice and Security Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius will host an international meeting in March to scale up the support being offered to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in its investigations of the alleged war crimes in Ukraine.

The United Kingdom's (UK) Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab and Netherlands' Minister of Justice and Security Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius will host an international meeting in March to scale up the support being offered to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in its investigations of the alleged war crimes in Ukraine. According to a statement issued by the British government on Saturday (January 7), justice ministers from around the world will attend the meeting that will be held in the Lancaster House in London. "The meeting comes as Russia steps up its campaign of terror against Ukraine, striking at crucial energy infrastructure and plunging people into the dark and freezing cold of winter. In reclaimed areas of Ukraine, prosecutors continue to gather evidence of atrocities and sexual violence," the statement said. Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab, who is also UK's Justice Secretary, said that Russian forces should know they cannot act with impunity "and we will back Ukraine until justice is served." ALSO READ | Ukraine reports fresh strikes as Putin's unilateral ceasefire starts "Almost a year on from the illegal invasion, the international community must give its strongest backing to the ICC so war criminals can be held to account for the atrocities we’re witnessing," Raab added. Dutch Justice and Security Minister Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius, meanwhile, said that reports and images of Moscow's unlawful and unprovoked armed attack on Ukraine are horrific, adding these crimes may not go unpunished, the statement said. It added that the UK government continues to support Ukraine's domestic investigation and that around £400 million in economic and humanitarian grant support has been provided to the war-torn country. "The UK has now provided £2.3 billion in military support to Ukraine in 2022 — more than any country other than the United States — and has already committed to sustain that level of military support into 2023," the statement also said. ALSO READ| US announces $3 billion in aid package for Ukraine, including Bradley armoured vehicles Russia's war in Ukraine will soon complete a year. On Saturday, hundreds of Ukrainian refugees observed their first Orthodox Christmas since fleeing Moscow's invasion. In Ukraine's capital city of Kyiv, worshippers attended a historic service at the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra monastery amid tight security. A report by the news agency AFP said worshippers had their passports checked and had to walk through metal detectors. Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a 36-hour ceasefire from midday on Friday to observe Orthodox Christmas. However, Ukraine rejected the truce by saying it was a stunt by Moscow to get more time to reinforce troops which took heavy losses this week. (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.

UK, Netherlands to host global meet in March on alleged war crimes 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.

Crimean city Sevastopol's Russian-installed governor Mikhail Razvozhaev on Saturday claimed that a drone was shot down by the air defences, referring to the latest attack launched by Ukrainian forces on a port where the Black Sea Fleet of Russia is based.&nbsp;

The claims were made as Russian President Vladimir Putin marked Orthodox Christmas at a church in Moscow after declaring a unilateral ceasefire.

Governor Razvozhaev made the claims on the Telegram messaging service as he alleged that the drone&nbsp;was&nbsp;shot down in the wee hours of January 7, the day of Orthodox Christmas.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-putin-orders-ceasefire-in-ukraine-on-january-6-7-549807">Russia-Ukraine war: Putin offers Orthodox Christmas truce, Ukraine rejects it as 'hypocrisy'</a>

"Even the sacred holiday of Christmas was not a reason for these inhuman people to halt their attempts to attack our Hero City," said Razvozhaev.&nbsp;

In 2014, Crimea was annexed by Russia and Ukraine says it will take back the Black Sea peninsula and other parts of eastern Ukraine which the Russian forces have invaded since February 24, 2022.

Putin attends midnight service to mark Orthodox Christmas&nbsp;

Russian President Putin was seen standing alone,&nbsp;attending a midnight service held at a church in the Kremlin to mark Orthodox Christmas, which is shadowed by Russia's invasion of war-ravaged Ukraine.&nbsp;

The service held at the Cathedral of the Annunciation, which was designed originally as a church for only the Russian tsars, was attended by Putin.&nbsp;

WATCH| WION Wideangle | Russia-Ukraine War: Ten months, ten key events

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Putin stood as the ceremony was conducted by Orthodox priests, wearing golden robes, who held long candles, as per the photographs released by the Kremlin.&nbsp;

In the message released on Saturday by the Kremlin, the Russian president extended his wishes to Orthodox Christians, stating that the holiday gave inspiration for "good deeds and aspirations".&nbsp;

He also appreciated the Orthodox Church because of which the Russian government received the full support of head Patriarch Kirill in the offensive against Ukraine.

Church organisations are "supporting our soldiers taking part in a special military operation," said Putin.

"Such great, multifaceted, truly ascetic work deserves the most sincere respect," the president added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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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. Crimean city Sevastopol's Russian-installed governor Mikhail Razvozhaev on Saturday claimed that a drone was shot down by the air defences, referring to the latest attack launched by Ukrainian forces on a port where the Black Sea Fleet of Russia is based. The claims were made as Russian President Vladimir Putin marked Orthodox Christmas at a church in Moscow after declaring a unilateral ceasefire. Governor Razvozhaev made the claims on the Telegram messaging service as he alleged that the drone was shot down in the wee hours of January 7, the day of Orthodox Christmas. ALSO READ| Russia-Ukraine war: Putin offers Orthodox Christmas truce, Ukraine rejects it as 'hypocrisy' "Even the sacred holiday of Christmas was not a reason for these inhuman people to halt their attempts to attack our Hero City," said Razvozhaev. In 2014, Crimea was annexed by Russia and Ukraine says it will take back the Black Sea peninsula and other parts of eastern Ukraine which the Russian forces have invaded since February 24, 2022. Putin attends midnight service to mark Orthodox Christmas Russian President Putin was seen standing alone, attending a midnight service held at a church in the Kremlin to mark Orthodox Christmas, which is shadowed by Russia's invasion of war-ravaged Ukraine. The service held at the Cathedral of the Annunciation, which was designed originally as a church for only the Russian tsars, was attended by Putin. WATCH| WION Wideangle | Russia-Ukraine War: Ten months, ten key events Putin stood as the ceremony was conducted by Orthodox priests, wearing golden robes, who held long candles, as per the photographs released by the Kremlin. In the message released on Saturday by the Kremlin, the Russian president extended his wishes to Orthodox Christians, stating that the holiday gave inspiration for "good deeds and aspirations". He also appreciated the Orthodox Church because of which the Russian government received the full support of head Patriarch Kirill in the offensive against Ukraine. Church organisations are "supporting our soldiers taking part in a special military operation," said Putin. "Such great, multifaceted, truly ascetic work deserves the most sincere respect," the president added. (With inputs from agencies)

Crimean governor claims Ukraine drone shot over Sevastopol as Putin marks Orthodox Christmas

Russian oligarch and former owner of the Chelsea football club Roman Abramovich's 10 offshore trusts, holding assets worth billions of dollars, were transferred shortly before he was hit with sanctions. According to a report by the Guardian on Friday (January 6), Abramovich's seven children became the beneficiaries of these offshore trusts.&nbsp;

They acquired the beneficial ownership of the trusts with assets worth at least $4 billion in early February last year, just three weeks before Russia announced its ''special military operation'' in Ukraine. The Guardian report pointed out that the total value of the assets could be much higher than the aforementioned amount.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelseas-ps425-billion-sale-approved-how-much-did-roman-abramovich-pay-to-buy-the-club-in-2003-482138">Chelsea's £4.25 billion sale approved: How much did Roman Abramovich pay to buy the club in 2003?</a>

Through these 10 trusts, they (Abramovich's children) appear to be the ultimate beneficial owners of various trophy assets long linked to Abramovich, including private jets, helicopters, luxury properties and super yachts.&nbsp;

Dubbed the "Oligarch Files" — the Guardian report, citing leaked documents, on Friday said that of Abramovich's seven children,&nbsp;five are adults and the youngest child is nine years old.&nbsp;

"The leaked documents raise questions about whether the changes to trusts were made in an attempt to shield the oligarch’s vast fortune from the threat of asset freezes," the report added.&nbsp;

Sanctions experts told the newspaper that the sweeping reorganisation of Roman Abramovich's trusts can complicate efforts to enforce sanctions against him and lead to more calls for his children to face asset freezes too.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-billionaire-roman-abramovich-suffered-suspected-poisoning-at-peace-talks-says-report-466546">Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich suffered suspected poisoning at peace talks, says report</a>

In March last year, the United Kingdom (UK) and the European Union (EU) governments imposed sanctions on Abramovich for allegedly benefitting from close relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

The United States has not imposed any sanctions on Abramovich after Ukraine reportedly asked the White House not to do so after he emerged as an unofficial mediator in peace negotiations. However, the US Justice Department seized two of his aircraft last year by saying they were used in violation of sanctions on Russia over Ukraine.&nbsp;

The leaked documents, which appeared to have been obtained through a hack of MeritServus — a Cyprus offshore service provider that administers Abramovich's trusts, showed how the Russian Oligarch used opaque trust structures to shelter his wealth in secretive offshore havens for decades, the report also said.&nbsp;

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Russian oligarch and former owner of the Chelsea football club Roman Abramovich's 10 offshore trusts, holding assets worth billions of dollars, were transferred shortly before he was hit with sanctions.

Russian oligarch and former owner of the Chelsea football club Roman Abramovich's 10 offshore trusts, holding assets worth billions of dollars, were transferred shortly before he was hit with sanctions. According to a report by the Guardian on Friday (January 6), Abramovich's seven children became the beneficiaries of these offshore trusts. They acquired the beneficial ownership of the trusts with assets worth at least $4 billion in early February last year, just three weeks before Russia announced its ''special military operation'' in Ukraine. The Guardian report pointed out that the total value of the assets could be much higher than the aforementioned amount. ALSO READ | Chelsea's £4.25 billion sale approved: How much did Roman Abramovich pay to buy the club in 2003? Through these 10 trusts, they (Abramovich's children) appear to be the ultimate beneficial owners of various trophy assets long linked to Abramovich, including private jets, helicopters, luxury properties and super yachts. Dubbed the "Oligarch Files" — the Guardian report, citing leaked documents, on Friday said that of Abramovich's seven children, five are adults and the youngest child is nine years old. "The leaked documents raise questions about whether the changes to trusts were made in an attempt to shield the oligarch’s vast fortune from the threat of asset freezes," the report added. Sanctions experts told the newspaper that the sweeping reorganisation of Roman Abramovich's trusts can complicate efforts to enforce sanctions against him and lead to more calls for his children to face asset freezes too. ALSO READ | Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich suffered suspected poisoning at peace talks, says report In March last year, the United Kingdom (UK) and the European Union (EU) governments imposed sanctions on Abramovich for allegedly benefitting from close relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The United States has not imposed any sanctions on Abramovich after Ukraine reportedly asked the White House not to do so after he emerged as an unofficial mediator in peace negotiations. However, the US Justice Department seized two of his aircraft last year by saying they were used in violation of sanctions on Russia over Ukraine. The leaked documents, which appeared to have been obtained through a hack of MeritServus — a Cyprus offshore service provider that administers Abramovich's trusts, showed how the Russian Oligarch used opaque trust structures to shelter his wealth in secretive offshore havens for decades, the report also said. 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.

Roman Abramovich's billion-dollar trusts transferred before sanctions: Report

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday dismissed the order on a ceasefire by Russian President Vladimir Putin calling it as 'hypocrisy'. Watch this video to know more.

Ukraine rejects Putin’s Christmas ceasefire, calls it 'Hypocrisy'

A Russian hacking team known as Cold River targeted three nuclear research laboratories in the United States this past summer, according to internet records reviewed by Reuters and five cyber security experts.

Between August and September, as President Vladimir Putin indicated Russia would be willing to use nuclear weapons to defend its territory, Cold River targeted the Brookhaven (BNL), Argonne (ANL) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories (LLNL), according to internet records that showed the hackers creating fake login pages for each institution and emailing nuclear scientists in a bid to make them reveal their passwords.

Reuters was unable to determine why the labs were targeted or if any attempted intrusion was successful. A BNL spokesperson declined to comment. LLNL did not respond to a request for comment. An ANL spokesperson referred questions to the U.S. Department of Energy, which declined to comment.

Cold River has escalated its hacking campaign against Kyiv's allies since the invasion of Ukraine, according to cybersecurity researchers and western government officials. The digital blitz against the U.S. labs occurred as U.N. experts entered Russian-controlled Ukrainian territory to inspect Europe's biggest atomic power plant and assess the risk of what both sides said could be a devastating radiation disaster amid heavy shelling nearby.

Cold River, which first appeared on the radar of intelligence professionals after targeting Britain's foreign office in 2016, has been involved in dozens of other high-profile hacking incidents in recent years, according to interviews with nine cybersecurity firms. Reuters traced email accounts used in its hacking operations between 2015 and 2020 to an IT worker in the Russian city of Syktyvkar.

"This is one of the most important hacking groups you’ve never heard of," said Adam Meyer, senior vice president of intelligence at U.S. cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike. "They are involved in directly supporting Kremlin information operations."

Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB), the domestic security agency that also conducts espionage campaigns for Moscow, and Russia's embassy in Washington did not respond to emailed requests for comment.

Western officials say the Russian government is a global leader in hacking and uses cyber-espionage to spy on foreign governments and industries to seek a competitive advantage. However, Moscow has consistently denied that it carries out hacking operations.

Reuters showed its findings to five industry experts who confirmed the involvement of Cold River in the attempted nuclear labs hacks, based on shared digital fingerprints that researchers have historically tied to the group.

The U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) declined to comment on Cold River's activities. Britain's Global Communications Headquarters (GCHQ), its NSA equivalent, did not comment. The foreign office declined to comment.

'INTELLIGENCE COLLECTION'

In May, Cold River broke into and leaked emails belonging to the former head of Britain's MI6 spy service. That was just one of several 'hack and leak' operations last year by Russia-linked hackers in which confidential communications were made public in Britain, Poland and Latvia, according to cybersecurity experts and Eastern European security officials.

In another recent espionage operation targeting critics of Moscow, Cold River registered domain names designed to imitate at least three European NGOs investigating war crimes, according to French cybersecurity firm SEKOIA.IO.

The NGO-related hacking attempts occurred just before and after the October 18 launch of a report by a U.N. independent commission of enquiry that found Russian forces were responsible for the "vast majority" of human rights violations in the early weeks of the Ukraine war, which Russia has called a special military operation.

In a blog post, SEKOIA.IO said that, based on its targeting of the NGOs, Cold River was seeking to contribute to "Russian intelligence collection about identiﬁed war crime-related evidence and/or international justice procedures." Reuters was unable independently to confirm why Cold River targeted the NGOs.

The Commission for International Justice and Accountability (CIJA), a nonprofit founded by a veteran war crimes investigator, said it had been repeatedly targeted by Russian-backed hackers in the past eight years without success. The other two NGOs, the International Center of Nonviolent Conflict and the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, did not respond to requests for comment.

Russia's embassy in Washington did not return a request seeking comment about the attempted hack against CIJA.

Cold River has employed tactics such as tricking people into entering their usernames and passwords on fake websites to gain access to their computer systems, security researchers told Reuters. To do this, Cold River has used a variety of email accounts to register domain names such as "goo-link[.]online" and "online365-office[.]com" which at a glance look similar to legitimate services operated by firms like Google and Microsoft, the security researchers said.

DEEP TIES TO RUSSIA 

Cold River made several missteps in recent years that allowed cybersecurity analysts to pinpoint the exact location and identity of one of its members, providing the clearest indication yet of the group's Russian origin, according to experts from Internet giant Google, British defense contractor BAE, and U.S. intelligence firm Nisos.

Multiple personal email addresses used to set up Cold River missions belong to Andrey Korinets, a 35-year-old IT worker and bodybuilder in Syktyvkar, about 1,600 km (1,000 miles) northeast of Moscow. Usage of these accounts left a trail of digital evidence from different hacks back to Korinets' online life, including social media accounts and personal websites.

Billy Leonard, a Security Engineer on Google's Threat Analysis Group who investigates nation state hacking, said Korinets was involved. "Google has tied this individual to the Russian hacking group Cold River and their early operations," he said.

Vincas Ciziunas, a security researcher at Nisos who also connected Korinets' email addresses to Cold River activity, said the IT worker appeared to be a "central figure" in the Syktyvkar hacking community, historically. Ciziunas discovered a series of Russian language internet forums, including an eZine, where Korinets had discussed hacking, and shared those posts with Reuters.

Korinets confirmed that he owned the relevant email accounts in an interview with Reuters but he denied any knowledge of Cold River. He said his only experience with hacking came years ago when he was fined by a Russian court over a computer crime committed during a business dispute with a former customer.

Reuters was able separately to confirm Korinets' links to Cold River by using data compiled through cybersecurity research platforms Constella Intelligence and DomainTools, which help identify the owners of websites: the data showed that Korinets' email addresses registered numerous websites used in Cold River hacking campaigns between 2015 and 2020.

It is unclear whether Korinets has been involved in hacking operations since 2020. He offered no explanation of why these email addresses were used and did not respond to further phone calls and emailed questions.

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A Russian hacking team known as Cold River targeted three nuclear research laboratories in the United States this past summer, according to internet records reviewed by Reuters and five cyber security experts.

A Russian hacking team known as Cold River targeted three nuclear research laboratories in the United States this past summer, according to internet records reviewed by Reuters and five cyber security experts. Between August and September, as President Vladimir Putin indicated Russia would be willing to use nuclear weapons to defend its territory, Cold River targeted the Brookhaven (BNL), Argonne (ANL) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories (LLNL), according to internet records that showed the hackers creating fake login pages for each institution and emailing nuclear scientists in a bid to make them reveal their passwords. Reuters was unable to determine why the labs were targeted or if any attempted intrusion was successful. A BNL spokesperson declined to comment. LLNL did not respond to a request for comment. An ANL spokesperson referred questions to the U.S. Department of Energy, which declined to comment. Cold River has escalated its hacking campaign against Kyiv's allies since the invasion of Ukraine, according to cybersecurity researchers and western government officials. The digital blitz against the U.S. labs occurred as U.N. experts entered Russian-controlled Ukrainian territory to inspect Europe's biggest atomic power plant and assess the risk of what both sides said could be a devastating radiation disaster amid heavy shelling nearby. Cold River, which first appeared on the radar of intelligence professionals after targeting Britain's foreign office in 2016, has been involved in dozens of other high-profile hacking incidents in recent years, according to interviews with nine cybersecurity firms. Reuters traced email accounts used in its hacking operations between 2015 and 2020 to an IT worker in the Russian city of Syktyvkar. "This is one of the most important hacking groups you’ve never heard of," said Adam Meyer, senior vice president of intelligence at U.S. cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike. "They are involved in directly supporting Kremlin information operations." Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB), the domestic security agency that also conducts espionage campaigns for Moscow, and Russia's embassy in Washington did not respond to emailed requests for comment. Western officials say the Russian government is a global leader in hacking and uses cyber-espionage to spy on foreign governments and industries to seek a competitive advantage. However, Moscow has consistently denied that it carries out hacking operations. Reuters showed its findings to five industry experts who confirmed the involvement of Cold River in the attempted nuclear labs hacks, based on shared digital fingerprints that researchers have historically tied to the group. The U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) declined to comment on Cold River's activities. Britain's Global Communications Headquarters (GCHQ), its NSA equivalent, did not comment. The foreign office declined to comment. 'INTELLIGENCE COLLECTION' In May, Cold River broke into and leaked emails belonging to the former head of Britain's MI6 spy service. That was just one of several 'hack and leak' operations last year by Russia-linked hackers in which confidential communications were made public in Britain, Poland and Latvia, according to cybersecurity experts and Eastern European security officials. In another recent espionage operation targeting critics of Moscow, Cold River registered domain names designed to imitate at least three European NGOs investigating war crimes, according to French cybersecurity firm SEKOIA.IO. The NGO-related hacking attempts occurred just before and after the October 18 launch of a report by a U.N. independent commission of enquiry that found Russian forces were responsible for the "vast majority" of human rights violations in the early weeks of the Ukraine war, which Russia has called a special military operation. In a blog post, SEKOIA.IO said that, based on its targeting of the NGOs, Cold River was seeking to contribute to "Russian intelligence collection about identiﬁed war crime-related evidence and/or international justice procedures." Reuters was unable independently to confirm why Cold River targeted the NGOs. The Commission for International Justice and Accountability (CIJA), a nonprofit founded by a veteran war crimes investigator, said it had been repeatedly targeted by Russian-backed hackers in the past eight years without success. The other two NGOs, the International Center of Nonviolent Conflict and the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, did not respond to requests for comment. Russia's embassy in Washington did not return a request seeking comment about the attempted hack against CIJA. Cold River has employed tactics such as tricking people into entering their usernames and passwords on fake websites to gain access to their computer systems, security researchers told Reuters. To do this, Cold River has used a variety of email accounts to register domain names such as "goo-link[.]online" and "online365-office[.]com" which at a glance look similar to legitimate services operated by firms like Google and Microsoft, the security researchers said. DEEP TIES TO RUSSIA Cold River made several missteps in recent years that allowed cybersecurity analysts to pinpoint the exact location and identity of one of its members, providing the clearest indication yet of the group's Russian origin, according to experts from Internet giant Google, British defense contractor BAE, and U.S. intelligence firm Nisos. Multiple personal email addresses used to set up Cold River missions belong to Andrey Korinets, a 35-year-old IT worker and bodybuilder in Syktyvkar, about 1,600 km (1,000 miles) northeast of Moscow. Usage of these accounts left a trail of digital evidence from different hacks back to Korinets' online life, including social media accounts and personal websites. Billy Leonard, a Security Engineer on Google's Threat Analysis Group who investigates nation state hacking, said Korinets was involved. "Google has tied this individual to the Russian hacking group Cold River and their early operations," he said. Vincas Ciziunas, a security researcher at Nisos who also connected Korinets' email addresses to Cold River activity, said the IT worker appeared to be a "central figure" in the Syktyvkar hacking community, historically. Ciziunas discovered a series of Russian language internet forums, including an eZine, where Korinets had discussed hacking, and shared those posts with Reuters. Korinets confirmed that he owned the relevant email accounts in an interview with Reuters but he denied any knowledge of Cold River. He said his only experience with hacking came years ago when he was fined by a Russian court over a computer crime committed during a business dispute with a former customer. Reuters was able separately to confirm Korinets' links to Cold River by using data compiled through cybersecurity research platforms Constella Intelligence and DomainTools, which help identify the owners of websites: the data showed that Korinets' email addresses registered numerous websites used in Cold River hacking campaigns between 2015 and 2020. It is unclear whether Korinets has been involved in hacking operations since 2020. He offered no explanation of why these email addresses were used and did not respond to further phone calls and emailed questions. 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 hackers targeted US nuclear scientists

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. The deputy head of Ukraine's presidential administration said that the city of Kramatorsk, which is in eastern Ukraine, reported fresh Russian strikes on Friday (January 6). The reported strikes came after the supposed start of a unilateral Russian ceasefire. Kyrylo Tymoshenko said on social media that the "occupiers hit the city with rockets twice". Tymoshenko further added that a residential building had been hit but there were no victims. The news agency AFP also reported that their journalists heard both outgoing and incoming shelling in the frontline city of Bakhmut, which is in eastern Ukraine. As per the agency report, the artillery fire was lighter than it has been in recent days. The streets of the impacted region were mostly empty because of the previous bombings. Some military vehicles were said to be present. Meanwhile, the Russian news agency TASS reported that Ukraine shelled Donetsk exactly when the ceasefire came into effect. The Donetsk People's Republic's (DPR) mission to the Joint Control and Coordination Center on issues related to Ukraine's war crimes (JCCC) reported on Friday that the fire came from 155 mm NATO artillery guns. On its Telegram channel, the mission said, "Six shells of 155 mm caliber were fired." Watch this report: × Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday a temporary ceasefire during Orthodox Christmas. It was supposed to have taken effect in Ukraine at 0900 GMT on Friday. However, Ukraine dismissed the ceasefire and told Russia to keep the "hypocrisy to yourself". Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak said that Russia "must leave the occupied territories - only then will it have a 'temporary truce'". Earlier, Ukraine several times dismissed rumours regarding the ceasefire, terming it as a strategy by Russia to gain time to regroup its forces and bolster its defences. After Putin's recent order, President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the unilateral ceasefire "cannot and should not be taken seriously". United States President Joe Biden was also equally dismissive. He said, "He was ready to bomb hospitals and nurseries and churches" on December 25 and on New Year's Day". "I think he's trying to find some oxygen," Biden added. 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 reports fresh strikes as Putin's unilateral ceasefire starts

Ukraine rejects Russian truce order as U.S. and Germany sends combat vehicles

President Vladimir Putin, in his conversation with Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan, said he was willing to hold talks with Ukraine if the latter is ready to accept territories which have been occupied by Russia, said the Kremlin on Thursday.&nbsp;"Putin again confirmed Russia's openness to serious dialogue on the condition of Kyiv authorities fulfilling the well-known and repeatedly voiced requirements of taking into account the new territorial realities," the Kremlin's statement read.&nbsp;

Large parts of southern and eastern Ukraine have been occupied by Russia. The Kremlin claims to have captured the Zaporizhzhia, Lugansk, Donetsk and Kherson regions, although they don't entirely control them.&nbsp;

"The Russian side emphasised the destructive role of Western states, pumping the Kyiv regime with weapons and military equipment, providing it with operational information and targets," the statement read.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-in-talks-with-russia-about-using-syrian-airspace-in-potential-operation-546388">Turkey in talks with Russia about using Syrian airspace in potential operation</a>

The two leaders also talked about the landmark grain deal's implementation, which was brokered by the UN with Turkey's help, for restoring the delivery of Ukrainian grain across the Black Sea.&nbsp;

The Kremlin stated that the two leaders talked about "the unblocking of food and fertiliser supplies from Russia" and the need for "the removal of all barriers to Russian exports." &nbsp;

Meanwhile, Erdogan appealed to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to announce a "unilateral" ceasefire in the war-ravaged Ukraine.&nbsp;

"President Erdogan said that calls for peace and negotiations should be supported by a unilateral ceasefire and a vision for a fair solution," Erdogan's office quoted the Turkish president as saying during a telephonic conversation with Putin.&nbsp;

Later on Thursday, the Turkish president was scheduled to hold a separate meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Erdogan has been trying to mediate between Moscow and Kyiv, as he shares good relations with both countries, to end the war.&nbsp;

Repeated attempts have been made by Erdogan to invite both Zelensky and Putin to Ankara for a peace summit.

WATCH |&nbsp;Turkey: Headscarf debate reaches Parliament; Turkish feminists condemn Erdogan's move

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The appeal for a 'unilateral' ceasefire was made by Erdogan after Russia's spiritual leader Patriarch Kirill had earlier on Thursday called for an Orthodox Christmas truce.

"I, Kirill, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, appeal to all the parties involved in the internecine conflict to cease fire and establish a Christmas truce from 12.00 on January 6 until 24.00 on January 7 so that Orthodox people can attend services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day," he stated.

President Erdogan has maintained good ties with Putin by not joining the West in imposing sanctions on Russia and increasing bilateral trade amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;

Now, the two leaders have tentative plans of establishing a natural gas hub in Ankara which can provide an alternate way to Russia for supplying Europe with fuel.&nbsp;

The office of President Erdogan stated that Ankara "has strengthened and will continue to strengthen the infrastructure" of the proposed hub. Both the leaders hope to "implement (the project) as soon as possible", stated Erdogan's office.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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President Vladimir Putin, in his conversation with Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan, said he was willing to hold talks with Ukraine if the latter is ready to accept territories which have been occupied by Russia, said the Kremlin on Thursday.

President Vladimir Putin, in his conversation with Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan, said he was willing to hold talks with Ukraine if the latter is ready to accept territories which have been occupied by Russia, said the Kremlin on Thursday. "Putin again confirmed Russia's openness to serious dialogue on the condition of Kyiv authorities fulfilling the well-known and repeatedly voiced requirements of taking into account the new territorial realities," the Kremlin's statement read. Large parts of southern and eastern Ukraine have been occupied by Russia. The Kremlin claims to have captured the Zaporizhzhia, Lugansk, Donetsk and Kherson regions, although they don't entirely control them. "The Russian side emphasised the destructive role of Western states, pumping the Kyiv regime with weapons and military equipment, providing it with operational information and targets," the statement read. ALSO READ| Turkey in talks with Russia about using Syrian airspace in potential operation The two leaders also talked about the landmark grain deal's implementation, which was brokered by the UN with Turkey's help, for restoring the delivery of Ukrainian grain across the Black Sea. The Kremlin stated that the two leaders talked about "the unblocking of food and fertiliser supplies from Russia" and the need for "the removal of all barriers to Russian exports." Meanwhile, Erdogan appealed to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to announce a "unilateral" ceasefire in the war-ravaged Ukraine. "President Erdogan said that calls for peace and negotiations should be supported by a unilateral ceasefire and a vision for a fair solution," Erdogan's office quoted the Turkish president as saying during a telephonic conversation with Putin. Later on Thursday, the Turkish president was scheduled to hold a separate meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Erdogan has been trying to mediate between Moscow and Kyiv, as he shares good relations with both countries, to end the war. Repeated attempts have been made by Erdogan to invite both Zelensky and Putin to Ankara for a peace summit. WATCH | Turkey: Headscarf debate reaches Parliament; Turkish feminists condemn Erdogan's move The appeal for a 'unilateral' ceasefire was made by Erdogan after Russia's spiritual leader Patriarch Kirill had earlier on Thursday called for an Orthodox Christmas truce. "I, Kirill, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, appeal to all the parties involved in the internecine conflict to cease fire and establish a Christmas truce from 12.00 on January 6 until 24.00 on January 7 so that Orthodox people can attend services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day," he stated. President Erdogan has maintained good ties with Putin by not joining the West in imposing sanctions on Russia and increasing bilateral trade amid the ongoing war. Now, the two leaders have tentative plans of establishing a natural gas hub in Ankara which can provide an alternate way to Russia for supplying Europe with fuel. The office of President Erdogan stated that Ankara "has strengthened and will continue to strengthen the infrastructure" of the proposed hub. Both the leaders hope to "implement (the project) as soon as possible", stated Erdogan's office. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin says open for dialogue if Ukraine accepts 'new territorial realities'

McDonald's will exit Kazakhstan due to supply restrictions, the American fast food giant's unit in the Central Asian nation said in a statement on Thursday. McDonald's opened its first restaurant in Kazakhstan back in 2016 and operated 24 restaurants across the country, including in the capital city of Astana and the financial hub Almaty.&nbsp;

"The chain of fast food restaurants operated by Food Solutions (local franchise) will cease its work under the brand of McDonald's in Kazakhstan due to supply restrictions," McDonald's Kazakhstan said on Thursday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pure-happiness-mcdonalds-reopens-in-kyiv-but-for-delivery-only-518179">'Pure happiness': McDonald's reopens in Kyiv, but for delivery only</a>

The statement said that after opening the chain of restaurants, visitors will be offered high-quality products, a varied menu and hospitable service. "Fast food restaurants will continue to operate in accordance with the current high standards, values ​​and business principles," it said.&nbsp;

The fast-food giant pointed out that during its period of activity in Kazakhstan, Food Solutions had paid more than 3 billion tenge (around $ 6.4 million) in taxes to the country's budget and actively participated in helping the society, transferring more than 80 million tenge to charity.

Though McDonald's claims it is exiting due to supply restrictions, news agency Bloomberg reported on Wednesday that the closure is being done after disruptions triggered by the Ukraine war left Kazakhstan without a substitute for Russian meat supplies.&nbsp;

On its website, McDonald's Kazakhstan did not mention it was being closed due to the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-mcdonalds-employees-suffer-sexual-harassment-report-517819">Thousands of McDonald's employees suffer sexual harassment: Report</a>

The fast food giant employed 2,000 people in Kazakhstan. At present, the website still shows the logo of McDonald's and the company's menu.&nbsp;

McDonald's, like several other Western brands, terminated its operations in Russia last year following Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. McDonald's, which had applied 62,000 workers in Russia,&nbsp;was bought by Russian businessman Alexander Govor and the restaurant was renamed "Delicious. Full Stop," news agency AFP reported on Thursday. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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McDonald's will exit Kazakhstan due to supply restrictions, the American fast food giant's unit in the Central Asian nation said in a statement on Thursday. McDonald's opened its first restaurant in Kazakhstan back in 2016 and operated 24 restaurants across the country, including in the capital city of Astana and the financial hub Almaty.

McDonald's will exit Kazakhstan due to supply restrictions, the American fast food giant's unit in the Central Asian nation said in a statement on Thursday. McDonald's opened its first restaurant in Kazakhstan back in 2016 and operated 24 restaurants across the country, including in the capital city of Astana and the financial hub Almaty. "The chain of fast food restaurants operated by Food Solutions (local franchise) will cease its work under the brand of McDonald's in Kazakhstan due to supply restrictions," McDonald's Kazakhstan said on Thursday. ALSO READ | 'Pure happiness': McDonald's reopens in Kyiv, but for delivery only The statement said that after opening the chain of restaurants, visitors will be offered high-quality products, a varied menu and hospitable service. "Fast food restaurants will continue to operate in accordance with the current high standards, values and business principles," it said. The fast-food giant pointed out that during its period of activity in Kazakhstan, Food Solutions had paid more than 3 billion tenge (around $ 6.4 million) in taxes to the country's budget and actively participated in helping the society, transferring more than 80 million tenge to charity. Though McDonald's claims it is exiting due to supply restrictions, news agency Bloomberg reported on Wednesday that the closure is being done after disruptions triggered by the Ukraine war left Kazakhstan without a substitute for Russian meat supplies. On its website, McDonald's Kazakhstan did not mention it was being closed due to the war in Ukraine. ALSO READ | Thousands of McDonald's employees suffer sexual harassment: Report The fast food giant employed 2,000 people in Kazakhstan. At present, the website still shows the logo of McDonald's and the company's menu. McDonald's, like several other Western brands, terminated its operations in Russia last year following Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. McDonald's, which had applied 62,000 workers in Russia, was bought by Russian businessman Alexander Govor and the restaurant was renamed "Delicious. Full Stop," news agency AFP reported on Thursday. 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.

McDonald's announces exit from Kazakhstan due to ‘supply restrictions’

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