The front lines are heating up in Ukraine. Russian forces are advancing its operations in various parts of Ukraine. There has been a surge in attacks in Ukraine's war ravaged Donetsk region. The Russian military has fired between 1500 to 2500 shells and Rockets and is now targeting crucial infrastructure in the region.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russia attacking crucial infrastructure in war-ravaged Donetsk

Russia fired cruise and ballistic missiles and Shahed-type drones at six regions across Ukraine on Wednesday morning, authorities reported, killing at least five civilians and wounding dozens.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia strikes Ukraine with 64 missiles and drones

Ukraine claimed it used sea drones to sink a small Russian warship in the Black Sea as Russian investigators alleged that a Russian military transport plane that crashed last month was brought down by two US-made Patriot missiles fired by Kyiv’s forces.

Ukraine claims its sea drones sank a Russian warship

US President Joe Biden said Tuesday that Congress will be doing the Kremlin's bidding if it fails to renew funding for Ukraine's fight against Russian invasion and blamed Donald Trump for playing politics with United States national security.

Opposing Ukraine aid bill is playing into Putin's hands, says US President Biden

The Russia-Ukraine war continues to drag on. Zelensky is seeking much-needed aid for Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia continues with its relentless grinding. Is Ukraine's Avdiivka next on Putin's target? Watch this video to find out.

Why does Russia want to capture Ukraine's Avdiivka?

Russian forces have intensified its offensive in the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka. According to Ukrainian officials, some parts of Avdiivka are in critical condition as the Ukrainian forces are fighting Russian shelling and incursions. Is it just a matter of time before Avdiivka falls to Russia? What does Russia stand to gain from this strategic advancement in Ukraine?

Russia-Ukraine war: Will Avdiivka fall to Russia? What will Russia gain?

Ukrainian President is replacing senior officials. Ukraine's Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi was the first on the list. Speculations have been rife that Zelensky will fire the highly popular Valerii Zaluzhnyi.

Why is Zelensky preparing to replace senior officials?

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine said that a broad overhaul of the country’s military and civilian leadership was needed to reboot the war effort against Russia, suggesting that a major shake-up of his government was imminent.

Ukraine’s president confirms plans for military shake-up

The United States House speaker has rejected the Senate's border Ukraine Aid deal. The senate border security bill included $14.1 billion security assistance to Israel and $60 billion to support Ukraine. Watch to know more!

US House speaker rejects 'Border Security Bill'

US senators release the full details of their highly anticipated bipartisan proposal. This pairs the Border enforcement policy with wartime aid for Ukraine Israel and other US allies as well.

US Senators release $118.3 billion border security bill

Russia’s deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko visited South Korea to discuss the Ukrainian war and bilateral ties, Seoul’s foreign ministry said on Sunday, as the two countries trade increasingly heated rhetoric over the nuclear-armed North.

Russia’s deputy FM visits Seoul after diplomatic row over North Korea comments

At least 20 people have been killed in what Russia says was a Ukrainian attack at a bakery in the occupied eastern city of Lysychansk. Russia's emergency ministry said that at least 20 people had been killed in the incident and several were injured. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war | 10 rescued post Ukrainian shelling of bakery says Russia

The death toll rose to&nbsp;28&nbsp;after a Ukrainian attack on a bakery and restaurant in Russian-controlled eastern Ukrainian city&nbsp;with Western-supplied rockets, said Russia, on Sunday (Feb 4), a day after the shelling. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited troops on the southeastern front and handed out medals, said his office.&nbsp;

<h2>At least 28 killed in shelling on bakery, restaurant</h2>

At least 28 people, including nine women and a child,&nbsp;were killed after Ukrainian shelling struck the bakery in the Russian-controlled city of Lysychansk on late Saturday (Feb 3), said the local Russian-backed officials.&nbsp;

They also claimed that the attack was conducted using the United States-supplied High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and expected swift and “unconditional condemnation” from the international community.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;At least 28 killed in Ukrainian attack: Russia

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Emergency workers worked overnight to look for survivors in the rubble of what remained of the shattered Adriatic Restaurant on Moskovska Street, where according to the Russian officials, a bakery had been set up for civilians.&nbsp;

Leonid Pasechnik, the Russian-installed head of the Luhansk region said that the bakery was crowded with civilians when it was struck. The Russian emergency ministry said 10 people had been pulled from the rubble alive.&nbsp;

“Search operations continue on the site of the collapsed bakery...28 people, including a child, have died,” the Russian emergency situations ministry said in a post on Telegram. According to officials, 18 men, nine women and one child were among those killed.&nbsp;

Additionally, four more people were in an “extremely grave condition,” said the ministry. Ukraine is yet to comment on the attack and allegations by Russia.&nbsp;

Pasechnik has declared a day of mourning in the Russian-held region and vowed retaliation against Ukraine.&nbsp;

<h2>Zelensky visits troops</h2>

The Ukrainian president visited the frontline village of Robotyne which was liberated late August.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-tells-white-house-of-plan-to-fire-top-commander-report-686668">Ukraine tells White House of plan to fire top commander: Report</a>

“It’s an honour to be here today. To support the warriors and award them. They face a difficult and critical mission to repel the enemy and defend Ukraine,” said Zelensky, in a statement after visiting Zaporizhzhia region.

A video posted on Facebook showed the Ukrainian president in uniform meeting soldiers in a dark room that looked like an underground cellar.&nbsp;

“I have the great honour to be here today, to reward you, because you have such a difficult and decisive mission on your shoulders to repel the enemy and win this war,” he told the troops.&nbsp;

The visit also comes amid reports that the Ukrainian government had informed the White House that it plans to fire the country’s army chief Valeriy Zaluzhnyi who is overseeing the war against Russian occupation forces.

<h2>New mayor appointed</h2>

During his visit, Zelensky also announced the appointment of the mayor of an occupied city who was once abducted by Russia as the new head of the country’s southern embattled Zaporizhzhia region, said his office on Sunday (Feb 4).&nbsp;

“The head of state introduced the newly appointed head of the Zaporizhzhia regional state administration Ivan Federov, who has been the mayor of the now temporarily occupied Melitopol since December 2020 and was in Russian captivity,” said the Ukrainian president’s office in a statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-shelling-of-bakery-in-occupied-east-claims-lives-of-at-least-5-says-russia-686754">Ukrainian shelling of bakery in occupied east claims lives of at least 20, says Russia</a>

Melitopol is a city around 130 kilometres south of Zaporizhzhia, which has been under Russian occupation since the first weeks of their invasion in 2022. Fedorov, 35 was abducted in March 2022 by Russian troops after they entered his city and he refused to cooperate with them.&nbsp;

Fedorov replaced the previous governor Yuriy Malashko. “My goal is for all people who really want to return home to be able to do so as soon as possible,” said the 35-year-old as per the presidential office.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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.

The death toll rose to 28 after a Ukrainian attack on a bakery and restaurant in Russian-controlled eastern Ukrainian city with Western-supplied rockets, said Russia, on Sunday (Feb 4), a day after the shelling.

The death toll rose to 28 after a Ukrainian attack on a bakery and restaurant in Russian-controlled eastern Ukrainian city with Western-supplied rockets, said Russia, on Sunday (Feb 4), a day after the shelling. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited troops on the southeastern front and handed out medals, said his office. At least 28 killed in shelling on bakery, restaurant At least 28 people, including nine women and a child, were killed after Ukrainian shelling struck the bakery in the Russian-controlled city of Lysychansk on late Saturday (Feb 3), said the local Russian-backed officials. They also claimed that the attack was conducted using the United States-supplied High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and expected swift and “unconditional condemnation” from the international community. WATCH | At least 28 killed in Ukrainian attack: Russia Emergency workers worked overnight to look for survivors in the rubble of what remained of the shattered Adriatic Restaurant on Moskovska Street, where according to the Russian officials, a bakery had been set up for civilians. Leonid Pasechnik, the Russian-installed head of the Luhansk region said that the bakery was crowded with civilians when it was struck. The Russian emergency ministry said 10 people had been pulled from the rubble alive. “Search operations continue on the site of the collapsed bakery...28 people, including a child, have died,” the Russian emergency situations ministry said in a post on Telegram. According to officials, 18 men, nine women and one child were among those killed. Additionally, four more people were in an “extremely grave condition,” said the ministry. Ukraine is yet to comment on the attack and allegations by Russia. Pasechnik has declared a day of mourning in the Russian-held region and vowed retaliation against Ukraine. Zelensky visits troops The Ukrainian president visited the frontline village of Robotyne which was liberated late August. ALSO READ | Ukraine tells White House of plan to fire top commander: Report “It’s an honour to be here today. To support the warriors and award them. They face a difficult and critical mission to repel the enemy and defend Ukraine,” said Zelensky, in a statement after visiting Zaporizhzhia region. A video posted on Facebook showed the Ukrainian president in uniform meeting soldiers in a dark room that looked like an underground cellar. “I have the great honour to be here today, to reward you, because you have such a difficult and decisive mission on your shoulders to repel the enemy and win this war,” he told the troops. The visit also comes amid reports that the Ukrainian government had informed the White House that it plans to fire the country’s army chief Valeriy Zaluzhnyi who is overseeing the war against Russian occupation forces. New mayor appointed During his visit, Zelensky also announced the appointment of the mayor of an occupied city who was once abducted by Russia as the new head of the country’s southern embattled Zaporizhzhia region, said his office on Sunday (Feb 4). “The head of state introduced the newly appointed head of the Zaporizhzhia regional state administration Ivan Federov, who has been the mayor of the now temporarily occupied Melitopol since December 2020 and was in Russian captivity,” said the Ukrainian president’s office in a statement. ALSO READ | Ukrainian shelling of bakery in occupied east claims lives of at least 20, says Russia Melitopol is a city around 130 kilometres south of Zaporizhzhia, which has been under Russian occupation since the first weeks of their invasion in 2022. Fedorov, 35 was abducted in March 2022 by Russian troops after they entered his city and he refused to cooperate with them. Fedorov replaced the previous governor Yuriy Malashko. “My goal is for all people who really want to return home to be able to do so as soon as possible,” said the 35-year-old as per the presidential office. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukraine war: Bakery blast toll rises to 28 in Russia-held city; Zelensky visits frontline

Ukraine on Saturday (Feb 3) bombarded a bakery in the occupied eastern city of Lysychansk, leaving dozens of civilians trapped under the rubble, said the Moscow-installed governor of the occupied Lugansk region.

"The Ukrainian army shelled a bakery in Lysychansk, there are civilians under the rubble," Leonid Pasechnik, a Russian occupation official, said on Telegram. "Three people were taken to hospital. There could be dozens more under the rubble," he further said.&nbsp;

Russia's emergency ministry said that at least 20 people had been killed in the incident and several were injured.

"In Lysychansk, employees of the Russian emergency ministry pulled out 20 bodies of victims from under the rubble," the Russian ministry said on social media, posting a video of rescuers working in the dark.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-deepens-as-nearly-40-killed-in-us-strikes-on-iran-backed-groups-in-iraq-and-syria-686682">Middle East crisis deepens as US strikes Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria</a>

<h2>Drone attack sets Russian refinery on fire, says governor</h2>

A massive blaze broke out after a drone attack, claimed by Ukraine, hit a major Russian oil refinery in the southwestern Volgograd region overnight.

The attack, as per the news agency AFP, was "organised" by Kyiv's SBU security service.

"Last night, the air defence and electronic jamming repelled an attack by drones in the Volgograd region's Kalachyovsky and Zakanalye districts," governor Andrei Bocharov said on Telegram.

"A fire started at the Volgograd refinery after one of the downed drones fell," he said, adding that the fire service had already brought the blaze under control by the start of the morning.

However, Bocharov said that no one was hurt in the incident.

Russian emergency services later told local media that the blaze had been put out.

"The fire at the refinery in Volgograd was 'organised' by SBU drones," a source in the Ukranian defence sector told AFP. &nbsp;

Russian energy giant Lukoil, which operates the refinery, says on its website that it is "the biggest producer of oil products in the federal South district", which covers eight regions of southwest Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine on Saturday (Feb 3) bombarded a bakery in the occupied eastern city of Lysychansk, leaving dozens of civilians trapped under the rubble, said the Moscow-installed governor of the occupied Lugansk region.

Ukraine on Saturday (Feb 3) bombarded a bakery in the occupied eastern city of Lysychansk, leaving dozens of civilians trapped under the rubble, said the Moscow-installed governor of the occupied Lugansk region. "The Ukrainian army shelled a bakery in Lysychansk, there are civilians under the rubble," Leonid Pasechnik, a Russian occupation official, said on Telegram. "Three people were taken to hospital. There could be dozens more under the rubble," he further said. Russia's emergency ministry said that at least 20 people had been killed in the incident and several were injured. "In Lysychansk, employees of the Russian emergency ministry pulled out 20 bodies of victims from under the rubble," the Russian ministry said on social media, posting a video of rescuers working in the dark. Also Read: Middle East crisis deepens as US strikes Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria Drone attack sets Russian refinery on fire, says governor A massive blaze broke out after a drone attack, claimed by Ukraine, hit a major Russian oil refinery in the southwestern Volgograd region overnight. The attack, as per the news agency AFP, was "organised" by Kyiv's SBU security service. "Last night, the air defence and electronic jamming repelled an attack by drones in the Volgograd region's Kalachyovsky and Zakanalye districts," governor Andrei Bocharov said on Telegram. "A fire started at the Volgograd refinery after one of the downed drones fell," he said, adding that the fire service had already brought the blaze under control by the start of the morning. However, Bocharov said that no one was hurt in the incident. Russian emergency services later told local media that the blaze had been put out. "The fire at the refinery in Volgograd was 'organised' by SBU drones," a source in the Ukranian defence sector told AFP. Russian energy giant Lukoil, which operates the refinery, says on its website that it is "the biggest producer of oil products in the federal South district", which covers eight regions of southwest Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian shelling of bakery in occupied east claims lives of at least 20, says Russia

The United States is the largest exporter of weapons, with its top buyers being Saudi Arabia, Japan and Australia, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. “It's important to protest these places because they are literally profiting off of war.

How does the US earn from wars?

Russia said on Sunday that Ukraine killed at least 28 people, including nine women and a child, when its armed forces struck a bakery and restaurant in Russian-controlled eastern Ukraine with Western-supplied rockets.

At least 28 killed in Ukrainian attack: Russia

Around 20 journalists were detained by police in central Moscow for several hours on Saturday at a rally of Russian soldiers' wives calling for their men to be returned from the front in Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine war | Moscow: Russian soldiers' wives call for their return

Russian drones hit energy infrastructure in Ukraine. Russian Defence Minister claims making fresh gains in Ukraine. About 40,000 people are without power in Ukraine. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow claims gaining control in areas of eastern Donetsk, Kharkiv

Russia-Ukraine war: Russian drones hit energy infrastructure in Ukraine

The UN top court has ruled that it will hear parts of Ukraine's case against Russia. The case argues that Moscow has pressed "Baseless allegations of Genocide" on Kyiv to justify its February 2022 invasion. Watch to know more!

ICJ to hear parts of Russia-Ukraine genocide case

Ukraine said Friday that tens of thousands of people were without power after a barrage of two dozen Russian drones damaged energy infrastructure in the center of the country.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian drone attacks in Ukraine leave 40,000 without power

Russia-Ukraine war | Moscow unleashes 24 drones on Ukraine

Russia-Ukraine war | Russia hits back after Kyiv sunk warship

Russia has created more than half a million new jobs in its defence sector to meet soaring demand on the battlefield, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday (Feb 2).

The Kremlin has thrown massive resources at its full-scale assault on Ukraine, with the defence sector accounting for much of the sanction-hit economy's growth.

"In the last year and a half alone, 520,000 new jobs have been created in defence," Putin told a political forum with defence workers in the western city of Tula.

"In order to be successful on the battlefield today, it is necessary to react quickly and adequately to what is happening there," Putin said.

"So whoever does it all faster, wins," he said.

After months of combat that has failed to yield major territorial gains for either Russia or Ukraine, Moscow is throwing more manpower into the conflict and ramping up arms production.

Last year, it unveiled plans for a massive 68-per cent hike in spending on the military -- more than outlays for education, environmental protection and healthcare spending combined.

The spending increase has fuelled demand in Russia's economy, drawing workers away from labour-starved civilian industries and pushing up inflation.

Unemployment has fallen to a record low and several non-defence sectors have reported a chronic shortage of workers since Russia launched its military campaign against Ukraine almost two years ago.

&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Russia has created more than half a million new jobs in its defence sector to meet soaring demand on the battlefield, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday (Feb 2).

Russia has created more than half a million new jobs in its defence sector to meet soaring demand on the battlefield, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday (Feb 2). The Kremlin has thrown massive resources at its full-scale assault on Ukraine, with the defence sector accounting for much of the sanction-hit economy's growth. "In the last year and a half alone, 520,000 new jobs have been created in defence," Putin told a political forum with defence workers in the western city of Tula. "In order to be successful on the battlefield today, it is necessary to react quickly and adequately to what is happening there," Putin said. "So whoever does it all faster, wins," he said. After months of combat that has failed to yield major territorial gains for either Russia or Ukraine, Moscow is throwing more manpower into the conflict and ramping up arms production. Last year, it unveiled plans for a massive 68-per cent hike in spending on the military -- more than outlays for education, environmental protection and healthcare spending combined. The spending increase has fuelled demand in Russia's economy, drawing workers away from labour-starved civilian industries and pushing up inflation. Unemployment has fallen to a record low and several non-defence sectors have reported a chronic shortage of workers since Russia launched its military campaign against Ukraine almost two years ago.

Russia creates 500K defense jobs amid rising battlefield demand, sending other sectors into a tailspin

In a rare breakthrough, Ukraine has destroyed a Russian warship in its Black Sea fleet. How is President Putin going to retaliate?

Gravitas | Putin's black sea fleet warship sunk by Kyiv

Ukrainian forces claimed that they blasted a Russian missile boat, which was a part of the Black Sea Fleet, in a targeted operation which took place close to the Russian-occupied Crimea.&nbsp;

The military intelligence claimed that the small warship, Ivanovets, received "direct hits to the hull" overnight, after which the ship sank.&nbsp;

The video footage of the attack was released by the Ukrainian forces which purportedly captures the moment of the impact which was followed by a massive explosion, as per media reports. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-feud-between-zelensky-and-ukraine-army-chief-he-wants-to-sack-685971">Explained | The feud between Zelensky and Ukraine army chief he wants to sack</a>

No comment has been made by the Russian authorities on the incident.

<h2>Boat eliminated by members of Ukraine's special unit</h2>

Meanwhile, taking to Telegram, a Russian military blogger "Voenkor Kotenok" wrote that the boat sank after it was struck three times by naval drones.&nbsp;

In the Ukrainian video, several identifiable features on the vessel were displayed that align with those of the Tarantul, which was also known as Project 12411-a missile boat that was class utilised by Russian and other navies. &nbsp;

These features of the vessel include the arrangement of the mast and sensors above the primary superstructure, along with a sizable radar dome which is located on the bridge.

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Ship wreck of the day! 
 
Warriors of the special unit "Group 13" of the <a href="https://twitter.com/DI_Ukraine?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DI_Ukraine</a> destroyed the missile corvette "Ivanovets" of the russian Black Sea Fleet. 
 
As a result of a number of direct hits to the hull, the corvette was damaged, rolled to the stern, and sank. The value of… <a href="https://t.co/JZwh8aggn0">pic.twitter.com/JZwh8aggn0</a>
— Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceU/status/1753013182702944594?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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As per Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate, the boat was struck by members of its special unit, called "Group 13," in Lake Donuzlav.&nbsp;

The saltwater bay is located on the Crimean peninsula's western side and houses a naval base.

"As a result of a series of direct hits to the hull, the Russian ship suffered damage incompatible with further movement - the Ivanovets listed to the stern and sank," the intelligence directorate said on its Telegram channel.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky suggested Army General to quit, write resignation note: Report

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-suggested-army-general-to-quit-write-resignation-note-report-686010/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to a report published by BBC, a Russian search and rescue operation was unsuccessful in the area. It stated that the ship was worth $60-70 million.&nbsp;

<h2>Foreign ministry calls attack 'impressive'&nbsp;</h2>

Ukraine's foreign ministry official Olexander Scherba called the attack "impressive".

"At 03:45 [01:45 GMT] there was the first hit and at 04:00 the whole crew was evacuated already. So there was no chance at all that this vessel would be saved," he said while speaking to the BBC.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Ukrainian forces claimed that they blasted a Russian missile boat, which was a part of the Black Sea Fleet, in a targeted operation which took place close to the Russian-occupied Crimea.

Ukrainian forces claimed that they blasted a Russian missile boat, which was a part of the Black Sea Fleet, in a targeted operation which took place close to the Russian-occupied Crimea. The military intelligence claimed that the small warship, Ivanovets, received "direct hits to the hull" overnight, after which the ship sank. The video footage of the attack was released by the Ukrainian forces which purportedly captures the moment of the impact which was followed by a massive explosion, as per media reports. Also read: Explained | The feud between Zelensky and Ukraine army chief he wants to sack No comment has been made by the Russian authorities on the incident. Boat eliminated by members of Ukraine's special unit Meanwhile, taking to Telegram, a Russian military blogger "Voenkor Kotenok" wrote that the boat sank after it was struck three times by naval drones. In the Ukrainian video, several identifiable features on the vessel were displayed that align with those of the Tarantul, which was also known as Project 12411-a missile boat that was class utilised by Russian and other navies. These features of the vessel include the arrangement of the mast and sensors above the primary superstructure, along with a sizable radar dome which is located on the bridge. Ship wreck of the day! Warriors of the special unit "Group 13" of the @DI_Ukraine destroyed the missile corvette "Ivanovets" of the russian Black Sea Fleet. As a result of a number of direct hits to the hull, the corvette was damaged, rolled to the stern, and sank. The value of… pic.twitter.com/JZwh8aggn0 — Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) February 1, 2024 × As per Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate, the boat was struck by members of its special unit, called "Group 13," in Lake Donuzlav. The saltwater bay is located on the Crimean peninsula's western side and houses a naval base. "As a result of a series of direct hits to the hull, the Russian ship suffered damage incompatible with further movement - the Ivanovets listed to the stern and sank," the intelligence directorate said on its Telegram channel. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky suggested Army General to quit, write resignation note: Report According to a report published by BBC, a Russian search and rescue operation was unsuccessful in the area. It stated that the ship was worth $60-70 million. Foreign ministry calls attack 'impressive' Ukraine's foreign ministry official Olexander Scherba called the attack "impressive". "At 03:45 [01:45 GMT] there was the first hit and at 04:00 the whole crew was evacuated already. So there was no chance at all that this vessel would be saved," he said while speaking to the BBC. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Ukraine releases video of moment of impact when its forces hit Russian missile boat

The leaders of the 27 European Union countries sealed a deal Thursday to provide Ukraine with a new $54 billion support package despite Hungary's weeks of threats to veto the move.

European Union agrees on new $54 billion aid package for Ukraine

The Russian National Guard, a squad which is also known as Rosgvardia, is set to incorporate three ex-Wagner assault detachments into its very first volunteer corps formation, said the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MoD).

The MoD, in its customary intelligence update on social media platform X, shared that Russian President Vladimir Putin had signed a law on 25 December last year, permitting the Russian National Guard to create its own volunteer formations. Rosgvardia is often referred to as Putin’s “private army”.

“Rosgvardia will likely deploy its new volunteer detachments to Ukraine and Africa. Rosgvardia is reportedly offering volunteers six-month contracts for service in Ukraine, and nine-month contracts for service in Africa," read the statement.&nbsp;

"The incorporation of former Wagner assault detachments into Rosgvardia’s volunteer corps highly likely indicates that Wagner has been successfully subordinated to Rosgvardia, increasing the Russian state’s command and control over the Wagner group,” it added.

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Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine – 01 February 2024. 
 
Find out more about Defence Intelligence's use of language: <a href="https://t.co/J67zk0ezE3">https://t.co/J67zk0ezE3</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StandWithUkraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StandWithUkraine</a> 🇺🇦 <a href="https://t.co/bMMsbx2CXL">pic.twitter.com/bMMsbx2CXL</a>
— Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceHQ/status/1752975835710046472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Ukraine says 'destroyed' Russian warship off Crimea</h2>

On the other hand, Putin reportedly faced a setback on the war front as Ukraine claimed on Thursday (Feb 1) that it had destroyed a Russian warship in the Black Sea off the Crimean peninsula.

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"An enemy missile corvette was destroyed" during the night, Ukraine's military intelligence agency said in a statement online. Russia made no immediate comment.

The Ukraine agency dubbed the vessel the Ivanovets and said that the ship was worth up to $70 million.

Kyiv said that the strike took place near Lake Donuzlav, a lake that flows into the Black Sea on the western coast of Crimea.

It also stated that a Russian search and rescue operation after the attack was "not successful".

Russia on Wednesday (Jan 31) claimed that it had destroyed 20 Ukrainian projectiles over the Black Sea and Crimea.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Russian National Guard, a squad which is also known as Rosgvardia, is set to incorporate three ex-Wagner assault detachments into its very first volunteer corps formation, said the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MoD).

The Russian National Guard, a squad which is also known as Rosgvardia, is set to incorporate three ex-Wagner assault detachments into its very first volunteer corps formation, said the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MoD). The MoD, in its customary intelligence update on social media platform X, shared that Russian President Vladimir Putin had signed a law on 25 December last year, permitting the Russian National Guard to create its own volunteer formations. Rosgvardia is often referred to as Putin’s “private army”. “Rosgvardia will likely deploy its new volunteer detachments to Ukraine and Africa. Rosgvardia is reportedly offering volunteers six-month contracts for service in Ukraine, and nine-month contracts for service in Africa," read the statement. "The incorporation of former Wagner assault detachments into Rosgvardia’s volunteer corps highly likely indicates that Wagner has been successfully subordinated to Rosgvardia, increasing the Russian state’s command and control over the Wagner group,” it added. Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine – 01 February 2024. Find out more about Defence Intelligence's use of language: https://t.co/J67zk0ezE3 #StandWithUkraine 🇺🇦 pic.twitter.com/bMMsbx2CXL — Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) February 1, 2024 × Ukraine says 'destroyed' Russian warship off Crimea On the other hand, Putin reportedly faced a setback on the war front as Ukraine claimed on Thursday (Feb 1) that it had destroyed a Russian warship in the Black Sea off the Crimean peninsula. Also read: Biden's order targets Jewish settler violence in West Bank, Netanyahu reacts "An enemy missile corvette was destroyed" during the night, Ukraine's military intelligence agency said in a statement online. Russia made no immediate comment. The Ukraine agency dubbed the vessel the Ivanovets and said that the ship was worth up to $70 million. Kyiv said that the strike took place near Lake Donuzlav, a lake that flows into the Black Sea on the western coast of Crimea. It also stated that a Russian search and rescue operation after the attack was "not successful". Russia on Wednesday (Jan 31) claimed that it had destroyed 20 Ukrainian projectiles over the Black Sea and Crimea. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia to incorporate ex-Wagner units into its national guard, says UK Ministry of Defence

In a major respite for war-torn Ukraine, which had been jittery given the shifting focus on the war in Gaza and the escalating troubles for shipping routes in the Red Sea, the European Union member states on Thursday (Feb 1) unanimously agreed to provide Ukraine with 50 billion euros in financial aid.

The decision was taken during a summit in Brussels&nbsp;despite initial resistance from Hungary's Viktor Orban. European Council chief Charles Michel announced the breakthrough on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "We have a deal. Unity."&nbsp;Michel added, "All 27 leaders agreed on an additional €50 billion support package for Ukraine within the EU budget. This locks in steadfast, long-term, predictable funding for Ukraine."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky while reacting to the unanimous EU deal said, "It is very important that the decision was made by all 27 leaders, which once again proves strong EU unity."

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"Continued EU financial support for Ukraine will strengthen long-term economic and financial stability, which is no less important than military assistance and sanctions pressure on Russia," he added.&nbsp;

Notably, tensions were rife&nbsp;between the EU and Hungary when Hungarian PM Orban pledged to obstruct the allocation of $54 billion in funds to Ukraine.&nbsp;In December, Orban prevented a vote on extending aid to Ukraine.&nbsp;

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Last December, EU leaders agreed to commence membership talks with Ukraine in a major victory for Zelensky. However, the EU accession process is time-consuming and it may take Ukraine many years before it joins the bloc.&nbsp;

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Hungary's leader chose not to veto the accession talks. As far as funds are concerned, unanimity among EU members was necessary for these decisions, which was ultimately achieved on Thursday (Feb 1). The funds are crucial for Ukraine as it is eagerly anticipating support for its battered economy amid the ongoing war with Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a major respite for war-torn Ukraine, which had been jittery given the shifting focus on the war in Gaza and the escalating troubles for shipping routes in the Red Sea, the European Union member states on Thursday (Feb 1) unanimously agreed to provide Ukraine with 50 billion euros in financial aid.

In a major respite for war-torn Ukraine, which had been jittery given the shifting focus on the war in Gaza and the escalating troubles for shipping routes in the Red Sea, the European Union member states on Thursday (Feb 1) unanimously agreed to provide Ukraine with 50 billion euros in financial aid. The decision was taken during a summit in Brussels despite initial resistance from Hungary's Viktor Orban. European Council chief Charles Michel announced the breakthrough on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "We have a deal. Unity." Michel added, "All 27 leaders agreed on an additional €50 billion support package for Ukraine within the EU budget. This locks in steadfast, long-term, predictable funding for Ukraine." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky while reacting to the unanimous EU deal said, "It is very important that the decision was made by all 27 leaders, which once again proves strong EU unity." Also Read | Indian student found dead in Cincinnati, third such incident in a week in US "Continued EU financial support for Ukraine will strengthen long-term economic and financial stability, which is no less important than military assistance and sanctions pressure on Russia," he added. Notably, tensions were rife between the EU and Hungary when Hungarian PM Orban pledged to obstruct the allocation of $54 billion in funds to Ukraine. In December, Orban prevented a vote on extending aid to Ukraine. Also Read | Ex-Maldivian President Nasheed relocates to Ghana without informing parliament Last December, EU leaders agreed to commence membership talks with Ukraine in a major victory for Zelensky. However, the EU accession process is time-consuming and it may take Ukraine many years before it joins the bloc. Watch | Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg apologises to families of exploited children × Hungary's leader chose not to veto the accession talks. As far as funds are concerned, unanimity among EU members was necessary for these decisions, which was ultimately achieved on Thursday (Feb 1). The funds are crucial for Ukraine as it is eagerly anticipating support for its battered economy amid the ongoing war with Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

European Union unlocks 50bn euro financial aid for Ukraine amid shifting focus on Gaza, Red Sea

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