Ukraine said it shot down a Russian Tu-22M3 strategic bomber for the first time on Friday (April 19), destroying a warplane capable of carrying long-range missiles used to attack Ukrainian cities.

Ukraine says it shot down Russian Tu-22M3 strategic bomber for the first time

For the first time since Russia's invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago, Ukraine claims to have shot down a Russian long-range bomber used&nbsp;for launching cruise missiles into its territory.

"For the first time, anti-aircraft missile units of the air force in cooperation with the defence intelligence of Ukraine destroyed a Tu-22M3 long-range strategic bomber," Ukraine's military said in a statement, according to news agency AFP.&nbsp;

The official handle of the Ukrainian Defence Ministry posted on X, "The Ukrainian Air Force shot down the enemy Tu-22M3 strategic bomber, which Russia used to attack Ukrainian cities. In addition, our warriors repelled another massive air attack and shot down 29 aerial targets: 2 Kh-101/Kh-555 cruise missiles; 14 Shahed UAVs; 11 Kh-59/Kh-69 guided air missiles; 2 Kh-22 cruise missiles."

Watch the video here:

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This morning, a Russian Tu-22M3 bomber crashed outside of Stavropol. 
 
Footage of the Russian bomber falling, burning and in a flatspin: <a href="https://t.co/QJ5yg1vtSU">pic.twitter.com/QJ5yg1vtSU</a>
— OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) <a href="https://twitter.com/Osinttechnical/status/1781178675045552537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Russian officials stated that one crew member of the plane died when it crashed in the southern Stavropol region while returning to base.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-arrests-man-on-charges-of-spying-for-russia-and-plotting-zelenskys-assassination-712839">Also read |&nbsp;Poland arrests man on charges of spying for Russia and plotting Zelensky's assassination</a>

"A Russian armed forces Tu-22M3 aircraft crashed in the Stavropol region while returning to the base aerodrome after performing a combat mission. The pilots ejected," the state-run TASS news agency quoted Russia's defence ministry as saying.&nbsp;

<h2>Crew member dies as Russian bomber crashes in southern Russia</h2>

In a post on Telegram, Stavropol governor Vladimir Vladimirov confirmed the death of one crew member and stated that two others were taken to a medical facility. "The search for the fourth pilot is continuing," he added.

Stavropol, situated in Russia's north Caucasus, east of Crimea, has experienced multiple attacks during the war. According to the AFP report citing the governor, the plane crashed in the region's Krasnogvardeysky district, approximately 400 km from the eastern edge of Crimea.

Also watch |&nbsp;Pentagon admits Russia's battlefield gains

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The main intelligence directorate of Ukraine's defence ministry reported, "The plane was shot down at a distance of about 300 kilometres from Ukraine. As a result of the hit, the bomber was able to fly to the Stavropol area, where it crashed." 
 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

(With inputs from agencies)

For the first time since Russia's invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago, Ukraine claims to have shot down a Russian long-range bomber used for launching cruise missiles into its territory.

For the first time since Russia's invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago, Ukraine claims to have shot down a Russian long-range bomber used for launching cruise missiles into its territory. "For the first time, anti-aircraft missile units of the air force in cooperation with the defence intelligence of Ukraine destroyed a Tu-22M3 long-range strategic bomber," Ukraine's military said in a statement, according to news agency AFP. The official handle of the Ukrainian Defence Ministry posted on X, "The Ukrainian Air Force shot down the enemy Tu-22M3 strategic bomber, which Russia used to attack Ukrainian cities. In addition, our warriors repelled another massive air attack and shot down 29 aerial targets: 2 Kh-101/Kh-555 cruise missiles; 14 Shahed UAVs; 11 Kh-59/Kh-69 guided air missiles; 2 Kh-22 cruise missiles." Watch the video here: This morning, a Russian Tu-22M3 bomber crashed outside of Stavropol. Footage of the Russian bomber falling, burning and in a flatspin: pic.twitter.com/QJ5yg1vtSU — OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) April 19, 2024 × Russian officials stated that one crew member of the plane died when it crashed in the southern Stavropol region while returning to base. Also read | Poland arrests man on charges of spying for Russia and plotting Zelensky's assassination "A Russian armed forces Tu-22M3 aircraft crashed in the Stavropol region while returning to the base aerodrome after performing a combat mission. The pilots ejected," the state-run TASS news agency quoted Russia's defence ministry as saying. Crew member dies as Russian bomber crashes in southern Russia In a post on Telegram, Stavropol governor Vladimir Vladimirov confirmed the death of one crew member and stated that two others were taken to a medical facility. "The search for the fourth pilot is continuing," he added. Stavropol, situated in Russia's north Caucasus, east of Crimea, has experienced multiple attacks during the war. According to the AFP report citing the governor, the plane crashed in the region's Krasnogvardeysky district, approximately 400 km from the eastern edge of Crimea. Also watch | Pentagon admits Russia's battlefield gains The main intelligence directorate of Ukraine's defence ministry reported, "The plane was shot down at a distance of about 300 kilometres from Ukraine. As a result of the hit, the bomber was able to fly to the Stavropol area, where it crashed." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

VIDEO: Ukraine’s strike sends Russian bomber into tailspin

Two individuals with dual German-Russian citizenship were arrested in Germany on Thursday (April 18).&nbsp; They are accused of planning sabotage attacks aimed at undermining military assistance for Ukraine, as per the German federal prosecutor's office.

Authorities have searched the homes and workplaces of the two arrested suspects, who are accused of working for a foreign secret service, said the prosecutor's office in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-have-neutralized-20-drones-and-2-missiles-712519">Russia claims to have neutralised 20 drones and 2 missiles</a>

One of the suspects, identified as Dieter S, had since October 2023 discussed possible plots with a person linked to the Russian secret service, the statement further said and added, Dieter S&nbsp;had been prepared to carry out bomb attacks on military facilities, including those operated by US forces.

The Russian and US&nbsp;embassies in Berlin did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

"The actions were intended in particular to undermine the military support provided by Germany to Ukraine against the Russian war of aggression," the prosecutors'&nbsp;statement said.

"Our security authorities have prevented possible explosive attacks that were intended to target and undermine our military assistance to Ukraine," Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said.

"It is a particularly serious case of alleged spy activity for (President Vladimir) Putin's criminal regime."

The Kremlin said it had no information about the arrests and the Russian embassy in Berlin said it had not been officially notified. The U.S. embassy did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-urges-congress-to-pass-ukraine-aid-bill-as-kyiv-warns-its-defeat-against-russia-would-lead-to-ww3-712538">Ukraine warns its defeat against Russia would lead to 'World War 3'</a>

The prosecutors suspect Dieter S., whose last name has not been disclosed due to German privacy laws, was a fighter for Russian-backed forces in eastern Ukraine from Dec&nbsp;2014 to Sept&nbsp;2016 in the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic.

He is in possession of a firearm, prosecutors said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Two individuals with dual German-Russian citizenship were arrested in Germany on Thursday (April 18). They are accused of planning sabotage attacks aimed at undermining military assistance for Ukraine, as per the German federal prosecutor's office.

Two individuals with dual German-Russian citizenship were arrested in Germany on Thursday (April 18). They are accused of planning sabotage attacks aimed at undermining military assistance for Ukraine, as per the German federal prosecutor's office. Authorities have searched the homes and workplaces of the two arrested suspects, who are accused of working for a foreign secret service, said the prosecutor's office in a statement. Also read: Russia claims to have neutralised 20 drones and 2 missiles One of the suspects, identified as Dieter S, had since October 2023 discussed possible plots with a person linked to the Russian secret service, the statement further said and added, Dieter S had been prepared to carry out bomb attacks on military facilities, including those operated by US forces. The Russian and US embassies in Berlin did not immediately respond to requests for comment. "The actions were intended in particular to undermine the military support provided by Germany to Ukraine against the Russian war of aggression," the prosecutors' statement said. "Our security authorities have prevented possible explosive attacks that were intended to target and undermine our military assistance to Ukraine," Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said. "It is a particularly serious case of alleged spy activity for (President Vladimir) Putin's criminal regime." The Kremlin said it had no information about the arrests and the Russian embassy in Berlin said it had not been officially notified. The U.S. embassy did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Also read: Ukraine warns its defeat against Russia would lead to 'World War 3' The prosecutors suspect Dieter S., whose last name has not been disclosed due to German privacy laws, was a fighter for Russian-backed forces in eastern Ukraine from Dec 2014 to Sept 2016 in the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic. He is in possession of a firearm, prosecutors said. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany arrests two 'Russian spies' allegedly plotting sabotage attacks

In their first meeting since Azerbaijan regained control of Nagorno-Karabakh, the foreign ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan convened in Iran on Monday. Russia stated that the primary issue had been settled, subject to additional work on a peace treaty. The summit was held against the backdrop of escalating Middle East tensions, following Azerbaijan's swift advance into the disputed territory.

Russia begins withdrawing from Azerbaijan's Nagorno-Karabakh

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US House to vote on Ukraine, Israel aid | IDF deploys weapons for Rafah assault?

Russian paratroopers have reached the eastern edge of the Ukrainian town of Chasiv Yar, which Kyiv's top commander says Moscow wants taken by May 9, the date when Russia marks the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany. Watch to know more.

Russia war: Russia on a mission to capture Chasiv Yar, at least 17 killed in Ukraine's Chernihiv

A Russian missile attack has killed 18 people in the city of Chernihiv in northern Ukraine. The attack came hours after reports of a Ukrainian strike on a Russian military airfield in occupied Crimea.

Russia-Ukraine War: At least 18 killed in Russian missile strike on Chernihiv city

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Report: US agrees to Israel's Rafah plans | Chernigiv: At least 18 killed in Russian strike

Republican Speaker Mike Johnson announced on Wednesday that the long-awaited vote on aid for Ukraine, Israel, and the Indo-Pacific region might take place as soon as Saturday.

US House to vote over aid for Ukraine, Israel & Indo-Pacific; bill allocates $60.84 bn for Ukraine

#Gravitas | Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has once again urged U.S. and other allies to show the same unity towards Ukraine as Israel. Over the weekend Israel was able to defend itself from Iran's retaliatory attack with Western support. Watch in for more detals!

Zelensky tells U.S. to treat Ukraine like Israel as war-battered nation faces weapons shortage

Russia has maintained an impressive arsenal that it keeps using to strike Ukraine. Starting with long-range strategic launchers to ballistic missiles and water drones to heavy bombers but reports from the front line show that Russians are now using tear gas grenades against Ukrainians. Keep watching to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukriane says Russia using tear gas on battlefield

Ukraine's top commander said on Sunday Russian forces aimed to capture the town of Chasiv Yar by May 9. Watch to know more.

Russia-Ukraine war | Russia's next target: Ukraine's Chasiv Yar

The death toll after a&nbsp;Russian missile attack on the&nbsp;northern Ukrainian city of Chernihiv on Wednesday (Apr 17) rose to 17, said the local officials. A&nbsp;report by Reuters citing&nbsp;emergency services said that 60 others, including&nbsp;three children, have been injured.&nbsp;

In an update, Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko had earlier&nbsp;said that the attack killed at least 13 people and left more than 60 injured, as&nbsp;rescue operations continue.

The&nbsp;strike also damaged four&nbsp;buildings, a hospital, an education facility and dozens of private cars, he added in a statement on Telegram.&nbsp;

Regional leader Vyacheslav Chaus says civilians were killed and injured when three missiles hit close to the city centre.&nbsp;

Chaus told&nbsp;Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne that&nbsp;Russia carried out the attack with three Iskander cruise missiles.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;attack on Chernihiv comes hours after reports surfaced about a Ukrainian attack on a Russian military base in occupied Crimea.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-urges-for-more-us-aid-711991" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-urges-for-more-us-aid-711991&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjvrqj47ciFAxUpTWcHHePmC0kQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3nyCH6-dkU6fSmbDAXa2k0&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-urges-for-more-us-aid-711991" target="_blank">Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine urges for more US aid</a>

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on social media, "Unfortunately, the death toll may still rise. This would not have happened if Ukraine had received a sufficient number of air defense systems and if the world's determination to counter Russian terror had been sufficient."

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Russia hit the Ukrainian city of Chernihiv. The attack was made with 3 missiles. There are dead and injured among civilians. According to initial information, 4 civilians lost their lives. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chernihiv?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chernihiv</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a> <a href="https://t.co/9Xn7yHWiVZ">pic.twitter.com/9Xn7yHWiVZ</a>
— KASİDE (@zakkumec) <a href="https://twitter.com/zakkumec/status/1780508905249947986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Chernihiv’s acting mayor, Oleksandr Lomako, said Russian missiles had targeted an eight-storey building which he described as social infrastructure in a densely populated area.

The head of Chernihiv regional hospital had previously said&nbsp;at least 18 people wounded in the attack were being treated there. More injured civilians had been taken to other hospitals, he said, urging residents to donate blood.

Videos circulating on social media showed&nbsp;flames of black smoke rising over the historic city&nbsp;that lies about 150 km (95 miles) from the capital Kyiv.&nbsp;People ran from a bus to take cover.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-putin-leaves-ukraine-powerless-russia-renews-aerial-assaults-on-energy-sites-710677" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-putin-leaves-ukraine-powerless-russia-renews-aerial-assaults-on-energy-sites-710677&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjvrqj47ciFAxUpTWcHHePmC0kQFnoECAMQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2as9vwDtFwNeP78Xq0SEKd&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-putin-leaves-ukraine-powerless-russia-renews-aerial-assaults-on-energy-sites-710677" target="_blank">Russia&nbsp;renews aerial assaults on energy sites</a>

Russia, which denies targeting civilians, invaded Ukraine in February 2022 and has launched thousands of missiles and drones on Ukrainian cities and villages in attacks that have killed hundreds of civilians.

In recent weeks, Russia has intensified its attacks on Ukrainian cities, targeting the country's power sector and other critical infrastructure.

(With inputs from agencies)

The death toll after a Russian missile attack on the northern Ukrainian city of Chernihiv on Wednesday (Apr 17) rose to 17, said the local officials. A report by Reuters citing emergency services said that 60 others, including three children, have been injured.

The death toll after a Russian missile attack on the northern Ukrainian city of Chernihiv on Wednesday (Apr 17) rose to 17, said the local officials. A report by Reuters citing emergency services said that 60 others, including three children, have been injured. In an update, Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko had earlier said that the attack killed at least 13 people and left more than 60 injured, as rescue operations continue. The strike also damaged four buildings, a hospital, an education facility and dozens of private cars, he added in a statement on Telegram. Regional leader Vyacheslav Chaus says civilians were killed and injured when three missiles hit close to the city centre. Chaus told Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne that Russia carried out the attack with three Iskander cruise missiles. The attack on Chernihiv comes hours after reports surfaced about a Ukrainian attack on a Russian military base in occupied Crimea. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine urges for more US aid Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on social media, "Unfortunately, the death toll may still rise. This would not have happened if Ukraine had received a sufficient number of air defense systems and if the world's determination to counter Russian terror had been sufficient." Russia hit the Ukrainian city of Chernihiv. The attack was made with 3 missiles. There are dead and injured among civilians. According to initial information, 4 civilians lost their lives. #Ukraine #Chernihiv #BREAKING pic.twitter.com/9Xn7yHWiVZ — KASİDE (@zakkumec) April 17, 2024 × Chernihiv’s acting mayor, Oleksandr Lomako, said Russian missiles had targeted an eight-storey building which he described as social infrastructure in a densely populated area. The head of Chernihiv regional hospital had previously said at least 18 people wounded in the attack were being treated there. More injured civilians had been taken to other hospitals, he said, urging residents to donate blood. Videos circulating on social media showed flames of black smoke rising over the historic city that lies about 150 km (95 miles) from the capital Kyiv. People ran from a bus to take cover. Also read: Russia renews aerial assaults on energy sites Russia, which denies targeting civilians, invaded Ukraine in February 2022 and has launched thousands of missiles and drones on Ukrainian cities and villages in attacks that have killed hundreds of civilians. In recent weeks, Russia has intensified its attacks on Ukrainian cities, targeting the country's power sector and other critical infrastructure. (With inputs from agencies)

Death toll rises to 17 after Russian attack on Ukraine's Chernihiv

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Russia strike on Ukraine kills 13 | Qatar: Truce talks at delicate phase

Russian paratroopers have reached the eastern edge of the Ukrainian town of Chasiv Yar, which Kyiv's top commander says Moscow wants taken by May 9, the date when Russia marks the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany.

Why is Russia trying to capture the Ukrainian town of Chasiv Yar?

In an upcoming China visit, US Secrectary of State, Antony Blinken is expected to raise concerns that Beijing is helping Russia build up its defence industrial base to fight the war in Ukraine.

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron reiterated their countries’ support for Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia, on Tuesday (Apr 9), and urged the United States House of Representatives to pass a bill for aid to Kyiv. Watch to know more.

US House speaker unveils plan for aid bills

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US congress grapples to pass aid bill

Ukraine's top commander said on Sunday Russian forces aimed to capture the town of Chasiv Yar by May 9, setting the stage for an important battle for control of high ground in the east where Russia is focusing its assaults. Watch to know more.

Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow: aims to capture Chasiv Yar Town

Russia-Ukraine war: No end in sight as Moscow aims to capture Chasiv Yar town

Ukraine war: Moscow plans to capture Chasiv Yar town by May 9

Ukrainian President Zelensky condemned Iran's drone and missile attack on Israel. He said just like Israel his country needed the assistance of its allies to counter air threats. Watch in for more details!

Iran attacks Israel | Ukraine's Zelensky to US: Iran's attack on Israel is a 'wake-up call'

Germany is also set to supply more US-made Patriot defence systems and air defence missiles to Ukraine. The move comes after a telephone conversation between the German Chancellor and the Ukrainian president.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine says situation on eastern front worse

Germany to send Patriot Air Defence System to Ukraine, US' aid still pending

China is significantly aiding Russia's military build-up, the largest since the Soviet era. According to a US assessment report, China has increased sales of technology crucial for weapon production, including machine tools and microelectronics, which Russia is using to build missiles, tanks, and aircraft for its war against Ukraine.

US officials are hopeful that sharing the intelligence will motivate European allies to apply pressure on China. This comes as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz prepares to visit Beijing over the weekend and G7 foreign ministers convene in Italy next week.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-puts-conditions-for-resuming-the-suspended-nuclear-treaty-with-us-710778">Russia puts 'conditions' for resuming the suspended nuclear treaty with US</a>

According to US findings, China helped Russia in the production of drones, space-based capabilities and machine-tool exports vital for producing ballistic missiles.

China has become a lifeline for Russia's struggling defence industry, particularly after setbacks since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a senior US official told reporters on condition of anonymity.

“Russia is launching its biggest military expansion since the Cold War, happening even faster than we initially anticipated,” said the US official.

“We believe the most critical step to aid Ukraine right now is convincing China to stop assisting Russia in rebuilding its military production capacity,” he further added, “Russia's war effort heavily relies on Chinese support, and without it, they'd struggle to continue.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/russia-conducts-successful-intercontinental-ballistic-missile-test-launch-710685" target="_blank">Russia conducts successful intercontinental ballistic missile test launch</a>

US officials said that China provided more than 70 per cent of the $900m (£723m) in machine tools – probably used to build ballistic missiles – imported in the last quarter of 2023 by Russia.

90 per cent of Russia’s microelectronics imports – used to produce missiles, tanks and aircraft – came from China last year, claimed US.

The US hopes European nations, facing China's economic importance, can leverage trade pressure.

Secretary of State Blinken is expected to raise the issue at upcoming G7 talks. High-level US visits, including a recent Biden-Xi call, aim to manage tensions while addressing concerns.

Blinken is also planning a visit in the coming weeks to China, on the heels of a trip by the treasury secretary, Janet Yellen.

The US emphasises its commitment to European stability and holding China accountable if Russia advances.&nbsp;

Additionally, the US and UK banned metal imports and trading of Russian aluminium, copper, and nickel to further restrict Russia's finances.

(With inputs from agencies)

China is significantly aiding Russia's military build-up, the largest since the Soviet era. According to a US assessment report, China has increased sales of technology crucial for weapon production, including machine tools and microelectronics, which Russia is using to build missiles, tanks, and aircraft for its war against Ukraine.

China is significantly aiding Russia's military build-up, the largest since the Soviet era. According to a US assessment report, China has increased sales of technology crucial for weapon production, including machine tools and microelectronics, which Russia is using to build missiles, tanks, and aircraft for its war against Ukraine. US officials are hopeful that sharing the intelligence will motivate European allies to apply pressure on China. This comes as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz prepares to visit Beijing over the weekend and G7 foreign ministers convene in Italy next week. Also read: Russia puts 'conditions' for resuming the suspended nuclear treaty with US According to US findings, China helped Russia in the production of drones, space-based capabilities and machine-tool exports vital for producing ballistic missiles. China has become a lifeline for Russia's struggling defence industry, particularly after setbacks since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a senior US official told reporters on condition of anonymity. “Russia is launching its biggest military expansion since the Cold War, happening even faster than we initially anticipated,” said the US official. “We believe the most critical step to aid Ukraine right now is convincing China to stop assisting Russia in rebuilding its military production capacity,” he further added, “Russia's war effort heavily relies on Chinese support, and without it, they'd struggle to continue.” Also read: Russia conducts successful intercontinental ballistic missile test launch US officials said that China provided more than 70 per cent of the $900m (£723m) in machine tools – probably used to build ballistic missiles – imported in the last quarter of 2023 by Russia. 90 per cent of Russia’s microelectronics imports – used to produce missiles, tanks and aircraft – came from China last year, claimed US. The US hopes European nations, facing China's economic importance, can leverage trade pressure. Secretary of State Blinken is expected to raise the issue at upcoming G7 talks. High-level US visits, including a recent Biden-Xi call, aim to manage tensions while addressing concerns. Blinken is also planning a visit in the coming weeks to China, on the heels of a trip by the treasury secretary, Janet Yellen. The US emphasises its commitment to European stability and holding China accountable if Russia advances. Additionally, the US and UK banned metal imports and trading of Russian aluminium, copper, and nickel to further restrict Russia's finances. (With inputs from agencies)

US accuses China of backing Russia’s extensive military expansion

Russia launched a major missile and drones attack on Ukraine on Thursday, destroying power facilities in several regions. Ukraine says Russia has ramped up pressure on its embattled energy system, at a time when Kyiv is running low on air defences.

Gravitas: Putin leaves Ukraine powerless | Russia renews aerial assaults on energy sites

Russian President Vladimir Putin ridiculed the Ukraine peace talks, a round of which is set to be held in Switzerland, on Thursday (April 11) and said that no enforced plans, which ignore Moscow's interests, will be accepted.

On Wednesday (April 10), the government of Switzerland announced will host a high-level international conference on June 15 and 16 which is aimed at finding a way towards peace in Ukraine amid the war with Russia which has continued for two years.&nbsp;

Switzerland further expressed hope that Russia may also join the peace process someday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-russia-using-majorly-using-guided-bombs-in-advances-report-710248">Ukraine claims Russia majorly using guided bombs and advance weapons: Report</a>

<h2>Putin says no invitation to Russia is 'funny if it weren’t so sad'&nbsp;</h2>

Putin said that Russia was not invited to the peace talks to be held in June and pointed out that a peace process can’t take place without Russia.

“They aren’t inviting us there. Moreover, they think there is nothing for us to do there, but at the same time, they say that it’s impossible to decide anything without us. It would have been funny if it weren’t so sad," Putin said.

Putin added that Russia is ready to hold negotiations, but the country will never accept “any schemes that have nothing to do with reality”.

The peace formula introduced by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which needed Moscow to face an international tribunal for its steps, pull back its troops and pay compensation to Ukraine has already been dismissed

On Thursday (April 11), the Kremlin said that Ukraine peace talks, which are likely to be held in Switzerland in June, did not make any "sense” unless Russia did not participate in it.

Watch:&nbsp;Ukrainian drone blitz forces Russia to shield its infrastructure

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“We said many times that the process of [peace] talks without Russia makes no sense,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

Russia’s foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said any action decided on Ukraine that “ignores Russia’s position” was “detached from reality” and had “no perspective”.

She further slammed the “peace formula” which was proposed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Ukraine and around 100 countries will be participating in the conference which will be organised at the luxury Burgenstock resort near the central city of Luzern. The conference will be hosted by Swiss President Viola Amherd.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin ridiculed the Ukraine peace talks, a round of which is set to be held in Switzerland, on Thursday (April 11) and said that no enforced plans, which ignore Moscow's interests, will be accepted.

Russian President Vladimir Putin ridiculed the Ukraine peace talks, a round of which is set to be held in Switzerland, on Thursday (April 11) and said that no enforced plans, which ignore Moscow's interests, will be accepted. On Wednesday (April 10), the government of Switzerland announced will host a high-level international conference on June 15 and 16 which is aimed at finding a way towards peace in Ukraine amid the war with Russia which has continued for two years. Switzerland further expressed hope that Russia may also join the peace process someday. Also Read: Ukraine claims Russia majorly using guided bombs and advance weapons: Report Putin says no invitation to Russia is 'funny if it weren’t so sad' Putin said that Russia was not invited to the peace talks to be held in June and pointed out that a peace process can’t take place without Russia. “They aren’t inviting us there. Moreover, they think there is nothing for us to do there, but at the same time, they say that it’s impossible to decide anything without us. It would have been funny if it weren’t so sad," Putin said. Putin added that Russia is ready to hold negotiations, but the country will never accept “any schemes that have nothing to do with reality”. The peace formula introduced by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which needed Moscow to face an international tribunal for its steps, pull back its troops and pay compensation to Ukraine has already been dismissed On Thursday (April 11), the Kremlin said that Ukraine peace talks, which are likely to be held in Switzerland in June, did not make any "sense” unless Russia did not participate in it. Watch: Ukrainian drone blitz forces Russia to shield its infrastructure “We said many times that the process of [peace] talks without Russia makes no sense,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. Russia’s foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said any action decided on Ukraine that “ignores Russia’s position” was “detached from reality” and had “no perspective”. She further slammed the “peace formula” which was proposed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Ukraine and around 100 countries will be participating in the conference which will be organised at the luxury Burgenstock resort near the central city of Luzern. The conference will be hosted by Swiss President Viola Amherd. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Putin ridicules Ukraine 'peace' talks without Russia's participation

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