Russian President Vladimir Putin is hinting at restarting negotiations in the ongoing Ukraine war through secret indirect channels. As per reports citing sources Russia has sent signals to United States through back channels that it may be willing to consider dropping its insistence on Ukraine's neutrality and also ultimately abandon opposition to its eventual NATO membership.

Russia-Ukraine war | Secret back channel talks to agree on security guarantees

Russian plane crash raises more questions. Kyiv denies Moscow's targeted attack claim. Russia & Ukraine continue to trade accusations over plane crash. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine War: Moscow accuses Kyiv of downing lane in Russia's Belgorod region

Nepal called back hundreds of Nepali nationals who were recruited by Russia in its army and also demanded repatriation of the bodies of those who gave their lives in the war, said Nepal’s top diplomat on Thursday (Jan 25). 
 
Speaking with The Associated Press, Nepal’s Foreign Minister Narayan Prakash Saud said that it is estimated that more than 200 Nepali nationals have been recruited by the Russian army to fight against Ukraine and at least 14 of them have been killed so far. 
 
“We have asked Russia to immediately stop the recruitment of Nepali nationals in their army, immediately return those who are already serving in the army, repatriate the bodies of those killed, and treat and return those who were wounded in the fighting,” said Saud. 
 
Saud added that Nepal has been seeking monetary compensation for the families of those Nepalis who died in the war with Russia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-accuses-russia-of-playing-with-lives-in-deadly-plane-crash-calls-for-international-inquiry-683529">Zelensky accuses Russia of 'playing with lives' in deadly plane crash, calls for international inquiry</a>

Among the 14 Nepali nationals who have been confirmed to have died in the war, Russia said that it has been in possession of 12 bodies. Most Nepalis want their deceased relatives' dead body be returned so that they can be cremated with religious rituals. 
 
“We have information that five of our citizens who fought on behalf of the Russians are being held captive by the Ukraine side. We are asking the Russian side to take initiatives to get them freed,” said Saud. 
 
No comment has been made by Russian officials on the foreign nationals' recruitment for the military service in Ukraine, however, media reports have suggested that not only Nepal, people have also been recruited into the Russian military from Cuba.

<h2 lang="en-US">Nepal bans citizens from travelling to Ukraine, Russia</h2>

Russian law permits foreign nationals to be recruited&nbsp;into its army after signing a contract with the Defence Ministry. The Cuban authorities in September arrested 17 people, who were connected with what they called a network for the recruitment of Cuban nationals to fight for Russia against Ukraine. 
 
Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier this month signed a decree which made it easier for foreigners who are enlisted in the country’s military to get Russian citizenship. The step was taken at a time when Moscow has been trying to replenish its army troops in Ukraine through different ways, which include the recruitment of migrants. 
 
It is also believed that Ukraine has hired some Nepalis to fight as soldiers, however, Saud said he did not have more information on this.

Watch:&nbsp;Russian military plane crash: Ukrainian President Zelensky calls for an international probe

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-military-plane-crash-ukrainian-president-zelensky-calls-for-an-international-probe-683500/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The government of Nepal has placed a ban on its citizens from travelling to Ukraine or Russia for employment, stating that the Russian army has recruited many people to fight in the conflict in Ukraine. 
 
Saud had held talks with Russian officials earlier this month, on the sidelines of the Non-Aligned Movement conference in Uganda and spoke about the issues. 
 
“We have clearly conveyed to them that our citizens are not allowed to be recruited in the army and to immediately send them back,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Nepal called back hundreds of Nepali nationals who were recruited by Russia in its army and also demanded repatriation of the bodies of those who gave their lives in the war, said Nepal’s top diplomat on Thursday (Jan 25).

Nepal called back hundreds of Nepali nationals who were recruited by Russia in its army and also demanded repatriation of the bodies of those who gave their lives in the war, said Nepal’s top diplomat on Thursday (Jan 25). Speaking with The Associated Press, Nepal’s Foreign Minister Narayan Prakash Saud said that it is estimated that more than 200 Nepali nationals have been recruited by the Russian army to fight against Ukraine and at least 14 of them have been killed so far. “We have asked Russia to immediately stop the recruitment of Nepali nationals in their army, immediately return those who are already serving in the army, repatriate the bodies of those killed, and treat and return those who were wounded in the fighting,” said Saud. Saud added that Nepal has been seeking monetary compensation for the families of those Nepalis who died in the war with Russia. Also read: Zelensky accuses Russia of 'playing with lives' in deadly plane crash, calls for international inquiry Among the 14 Nepali nationals who have been confirmed to have died in the war, Russia said that it has been in possession of 12 bodies. Most Nepalis want their deceased relatives' dead body be returned so that they can be cremated with religious rituals. “We have information that five of our citizens who fought on behalf of the Russians are being held captive by the Ukraine side. We are asking the Russian side to take initiatives to get them freed,” said Saud. No comment has been made by Russian officials on the foreign nationals' recruitment for the military service in Ukraine, however, media reports have suggested that not only Nepal, people have also been recruited into the Russian military from Cuba. Nepal bans citizens from travelling to Ukraine, Russia Russian law permits foreign nationals to be recruited into its army after signing a contract with the Defence Ministry. The Cuban authorities in September arrested 17 people, who were connected with what they called a network for the recruitment of Cuban nationals to fight for Russia against Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier this month signed a decree which made it easier for foreigners who are enlisted in the country’s military to get Russian citizenship. The step was taken at a time when Moscow has been trying to replenish its army troops in Ukraine through different ways, which include the recruitment of migrants. It is also believed that Ukraine has hired some Nepalis to fight as soldiers, however, Saud said he did not have more information on this. Watch: Russian military plane crash: Ukrainian President Zelensky calls for an international probe The government of Nepal has placed a ban on its citizens from travelling to Ukraine or Russia for employment, stating that the Russian army has recruited many people to fight in the conflict in Ukraine. Saud had held talks with Russian officials earlier this month, on the sidelines of the Non-Aligned Movement conference in Uganda and spoke about the issues. “We have clearly conveyed to them that our citizens are not allowed to be recruited in the army and to immediately send them back,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Nepal calls back its citizens recruited in Russian Army to fight against Ukraine

A St. Petersburg court has pronounced a 27-year prison sentence for Daria Trepova, the 26-year-old woman found guilty of assassinating ultranationalist pro-war blogger Vladlen Tatarsky in April. The incident unfolded during an event at a St. Petersburg café where Tatarsky was speaking.

On April 2, Trepova attended the event, presenting Tatarsky with a statuette that concealed explosives, resulting in an explosion that killed Tatarsky and injured 52 others. Despite her guilty plea for forging documents related to the act, Trepova maintained ignorance regarding the explosives inside the statuette.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladlen-tatarskys-death-who-is-darya-trepova-what-happened-at-the-st-petersburg-cafe-all-we-know-578547">Also read |&nbsp;Vladlen Tatarsky's death: Who is Darya Trepova &amp; what happened at the St Petersburg cafe? All we know</a>

<h2>Sentencing details and maximum charges</h2>

The court considered the maximum sentencing for acts of terrorism, trafficking explosives, and forging documents, which collectively amounts to 30 years.

Trepova admitted guilt only to document forgery, prompting the prosecution's request for a 19-year term for terrorism, 14 years for trafficking explosives, and three years for document forgery, totaling 28 years. Additional non-custodial restrictions and a fine of 800,000 rubles were proposed.

Daria Trepova's lawyer, Daniil Berman, challenged the evidence's sufficiency and called for a re-investigation with revised charges. He suggested the possibility of charging Trepova with invasion of privacy or treason rather than a terrorist attack.

Also watch |&nbsp;Russia military plane crash: Ukraine President Zelensky calls for an international probe

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-military-plane-crash-ukraine-president-zelensky-calls-for-an-international-probe-683579/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“A terrorist attack is something else altogether,” Berman asserted, emphasising the need for a reconsideration of the charges against his client.

Dmitry Kasintsev, a friend of Trepova implicated in the aftermath, received a sentence of one year and nine months for concealing the crime.

Despite facing a maximum two-year prison term, Kasintsev argued that he was only guilty of "failure to report a crime," as his defence sought a full acquittal or a non-custodial sentence.

(With inputs from agencies)

A St. Petersburg court has pronounced a 27-year prison sentence for Daria Trepova, the 26-year-old woman found guilty of assassinating ultranationalist pro-war blogger Vladlen Tatarsky in April.

A St. Petersburg court has pronounced a 27-year prison sentence for Daria Trepova, the 26-year-old woman found guilty of assassinating ultranationalist pro-war blogger Vladlen Tatarsky in April. The incident unfolded during an event at a St. Petersburg café where Tatarsky was speaking. On April 2, Trepova attended the event, presenting Tatarsky with a statuette that concealed explosives, resulting in an explosion that killed Tatarsky and injured 52 others. Despite her guilty plea for forging documents related to the act, Trepova maintained ignorance regarding the explosives inside the statuette. Also read | Vladlen Tatarsky's death: Who is Darya Trepova & what happened at the St Petersburg cafe? All we know Sentencing details and maximum charges The court considered the maximum sentencing for acts of terrorism, trafficking explosives, and forging documents, which collectively amounts to 30 years. Trepova admitted guilt only to document forgery, prompting the prosecution's request for a 19-year term for terrorism, 14 years for trafficking explosives, and three years for document forgery, totaling 28 years. Additional non-custodial restrictions and a fine of 800,000 rubles were proposed. Daria Trepova's lawyer, Daniil Berman, challenged the evidence's sufficiency and called for a re-investigation with revised charges. He suggested the possibility of charging Trepova with invasion of privacy or treason rather than a terrorist attack. Also watch | Russia military plane crash: Ukraine President Zelensky calls for an international probe “A terrorist attack is something else altogether,” Berman asserted, emphasising the need for a reconsideration of the charges against his client. Dmitry Kasintsev, a friend of Trepova implicated in the aftermath, received a sentence of one year and nine months for concealing the crime. Despite facing a maximum two-year prison term, Kasintsev argued that he was only guilty of "failure to report a crime," as his defence sought a full acquittal or a non-custodial sentence. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia's Daria Trepova gets 27-year prison term for killing pro-war blogger in cafe bombing

Did Zelensky's men order the bombing of the Russian plane that was carrying 65 Ukrainian POWs. Russia certainly thinks so. If Moscow is right, why would Ukraine kill its soldiers? What led to the crash of Russia's 100-ton aircraft on January 24th? Was the plane even carrying POWs? We piece together the details of what has come out on this episode of Gravitas.

Gravitas: Putin fumes as Russian jet with POWs crashes near Ukraine | Did Zelensky order the hit?

The investigators, who were carrying out a search operation at the site where a Russian military transport plane crashed, have found the flight recorders of the plane, as per media reports. 
 
The flight recorders were found a day after Moscow held Kyiv guilty of shooting down the aircraft which was carrying 65 Ukrainian prisoners of war and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky calling for an international investigation. 
 
The Il-76 was shot down from the sky and turned into a fireball, after crashing in a rural area of Russia on Wednesday, in which 74 people were killed on board, said Russian authorities.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-accuses-russia-of-playing-with-lives-in-deadly-plane-crash-calls-for-international-inquiry-683529">Zelensky accuses Russia of 'playing with lives' in deadly plane crash, calls for international inquiry</a>

Kyiv was accused by Russian officials of shooting down the plane using two missiles. Russia had&nbsp;claimed that 65 Ukrainian prisoners of war were present in the plane and were being taken for a prisoner swap.

<h2 lang="en-US">Ukraine confirms due prisoner exchange</h2>

Ukrainian authorities accepted that a prisoner exchange was set to take place on Wednesday (Jan 24) and added that it was cancelled, but argued that they had no information regarding who was present on the plane. 
 
Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on Thursday (Jan 25) reiterated&nbsp;that the plane was downed by Ukrainian officials, calling it “a totally monstrous act.” 
 
Soon after the incident, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for an international investigation. 
 
“It is necessary to establish all the facts, as much as possible, considering that the plane crash occurred on Russian territory — beyond our control,” Zelensky said, in his video address.

Watch:&nbsp;Russian military plane crash: Ukrainian President Zelensky calls for an international probe

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“It’s obvious Russians are playing with the lives of Ukrainian POWs, with the feelings of their relatives and the emotions of our society,” he added. 
 
Meanwhile, Ukraine's military intelligence (GUR) claimed that they had not been asked to ensure safe airspace, as on earlier occasions. 
 
The GUR further emphasised that did not have any reliable information about who was present on board and added the incident may have been a result of "planned and deliberate actions by Russia". 
 
An emergency meeting of the UN Security Council was called by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov which is likely to take place on Thursday afternoon in New York. 
 
The discovery of flight recorders present inside the plane which crashed was reported by the state-owned RIA Novosti news agency, as it cited emergency services.&nbsp;

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)

The investigators, who were carrying out a search operation at the site where a Russian military transport plane crashed, have found the flight recorders of the plane, as per media reports.

The investigators, who were carrying out a search operation at the site where a Russian military transport plane crashed, have found the flight recorders of the plane, as per media reports. The flight recorders were found a day after Moscow held Kyiv guilty of shooting down the aircraft which was carrying 65 Ukrainian prisoners of war and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky calling for an international investigation. The Il-76 was shot down from the sky and turned into a fireball, after crashing in a rural area of Russia on Wednesday, in which 74 people were killed on board, said Russian authorities. Also read: Zelensky accuses Russia of 'playing with lives' in deadly plane crash, calls for international inquiry Kyiv was accused by Russian officials of shooting down the plane using two missiles. Russia had claimed that 65 Ukrainian prisoners of war were present in the plane and were being taken for a prisoner swap. Ukraine confirms due prisoner exchange Ukrainian authorities accepted that a prisoner exchange was set to take place on Wednesday (Jan 24) and added that it was cancelled, but argued that they had no information regarding who was present on the plane. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on Thursday (Jan 25) reiterated that the plane was downed by Ukrainian officials, calling it “a totally monstrous act.” Soon after the incident, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for an international investigation. “It is necessary to establish all the facts, as much as possible, considering that the plane crash occurred on Russian territory — beyond our control,” Zelensky said, in his video address. Watch: Russian military plane crash: Ukrainian President Zelensky calls for an international probe “It’s obvious Russians are playing with the lives of Ukrainian POWs, with the feelings of their relatives and the emotions of our society,” he added. Meanwhile, Ukraine's military intelligence (GUR) claimed that they had not been asked to ensure safe airspace, as on earlier occasions. The GUR further emphasised that did not have any reliable information about who was present on board and added the incident may have been a result of "planned and deliberate actions by Russia". An emergency meeting of the UN Security Council was called by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov which is likely to take place on Thursday afternoon in New York. The discovery of flight recorders present inside the plane which crashed was reported by the state-owned RIA Novosti news agency, as it cited emergency services. 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)

Investigators find flight recorders present inside Russian plane crash: Report

A Russian Ilyushin Il-76 military transport plane crashed on Wednesday in Russia's Belgorod region. Russia has accused Ukraine of downing the plane whereas Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Moscow of "playing with the lives of Ukrainian prisoners of war."

Russian military plane crash: Blame game erupts after Belgorod plane crash

Russia military plane crash: Ukraine President Zelensky calls for an international probe

Has Russia outlasted Ukraine in the War of Attrition as the United States' aid dries up? Will Venezuela invade Guyana over the newly discovered oil reserves? West Africa's G-5 anti-Jihadist alliance crumbles & yet another mass shooting rocks a University in the United States. Mohammed Saleh gets you an in-depth report of the world's biggest warzones of the week in World At War.

Has Russia outlasted Ukraine in the War of Attrition as US aid dries up?

Nadezhdin, a Russian opposition politician who has spoken out against the war in Ukraine, collected the necessary 100,000 signatures of support to enter the race, news agency reported on Tuesday.

Russia: Putin's opponent Nadezhdin backs ending Ukraine war | Race to Power

At least 18 people have been killed and more than 130 others were injured after Russia launched a wave of attacks on Ukrainian cities, on Tuesday (Jan 23), said President Volodymyr Zelensky. The Ukrainian president also vowed a strong response to these attacks as the war approaches its third year.

<h2>Deadly Russian attacks across Ukraine</h2>

During his nightly address, Zelensky said more than 200 sites were struck, including 139 residential buildings. The early morning strikes had targeted the Ukrainian capital city of Kyiv and Kharkiv, with air raid sirens going off at 5:43 am (local time).&nbsp;

The eastern border city of Kharkiv suffered three waves of attacks, while Kyiv and the southern region of Kherson were subjected to constant shelling. According to Zelensky, Russia launched nearly 40 missiles of different types in “another combined strike to try to circumvent our air defence system.”

Rescue workers in Ukraine’s second-largest city, Kharkiv, were seen hauling survivors from smouldering piles of rubble as apartment blocks were set ablaze and toppled by the strikes, according to AFP journalists.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: President Zelensky vows to wreak 'wrath' on Russia

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Kharkiv regional Governor Oleh Synehubov said eight people had been killed in the overnight barrage which also left around 50 wounded. At least four more people were injured after a fresh round of strikes on Kharkiv, on Tuesday evening.&nbsp;

Interior Minister Igor Klymenko praised rescuers who he said pulled some 27 survivors out of the rubble. Kharkiv’s mayor, Ihor Terekhov, said rescuers discovered the body of a nine-year-old girl under rubble; her mother had also been killed.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in Kyiv, emergency services said 22 people, including four children, had been wounded across at least three districts in the attacks which set buildings and cars ablaze in central districts.&nbsp;

“There was a very loud bang, and my mother was already running outside, shouting that we need to leave. We all went to the corridor,” said Daniel Boliukh, 21, as quoted by Reuters. “Then, we went on the balcony to have a look, and saw all these buildings were on fire.”

Residential buildings and medical and educational institutions were damaged in Kyiv, according to emergency services.&nbsp;

Ukraine’s commander-in-chief claimed that the country’s armed forces destroyed 22 of 44 missiles of various types. At least 20 were shot down over the Ukrainian capital, said Kyiv’s military administration.&nbsp;

In Kherson, Governor Oleksandr Prokudin said Russian aircraft pounded the region throughout the day. According to officials, two people had been killed in the region.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-officials-claim-russian-missile-strike-damages-gas-pipeline-in-kharkiv-682912">Ukraine officials blame Russian missile strike for damage to gas pipeline in Kharkiv</a>

Further south, in the Ukrainian city of Pavlograd, the Dnipropetrovsk regional governor said one person had been killed and another wounded.

<h2>‘Typical terrorist state’</h2>

“Ordinary life is what Russia sees as a threat to itself. The state is a typical terrorist,” said a sombre Ukrainian president. He added, “Let them know in Russia that the Ukrainian character knows how to be far-reaching enough in response.”&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rustem Umerov told a recent international ministerial meeting on Kyiv’s defence needs that Russia was stepping up missile attacks. Moscow's&nbsp;forces had used more than 600 missiles and over 1,000 drones over the past two months, he said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Kremlin, responding to questions from reporters about the attacks, denied that Russian forces had targeted civilian infrastructure in Ukraine.&nbsp;

“Our military does not hit civilian facilities or residential neighbourhoods, and does not hit civilians – unlike the Kyiv regime,” said spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.&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.&nbsp;

At least 18 people have been killed and more than 130 others were injured after Russia launched a wave of attacks on Ukrainian cities, on Tuesday (Jan 23), said President Volodymyr Zelensky.

At least 18 people have been killed and more than 130 others were injured after Russia launched a wave of attacks on Ukrainian cities, on Tuesday (Jan 23), said President Volodymyr Zelensky. The Ukrainian president also vowed a strong response to these attacks as the war approaches its third year. Deadly Russian attacks across Ukraine During his nightly address, Zelensky said more than 200 sites were struck, including 139 residential buildings. The early morning strikes had targeted the Ukrainian capital city of Kyiv and Kharkiv, with air raid sirens going off at 5:43 am (local time). The eastern border city of Kharkiv suffered three waves of attacks, while Kyiv and the southern region of Kherson were subjected to constant shelling. According to Zelensky, Russia launched nearly 40 missiles of different types in “another combined strike to try to circumvent our air defence system.” Rescue workers in Ukraine’s second-largest city, Kharkiv, were seen hauling survivors from smouldering piles of rubble as apartment blocks were set ablaze and toppled by the strikes, according to AFP journalists. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: President Zelensky vows to wreak 'wrath' on Russia Kharkiv regional Governor Oleh Synehubov said eight people had been killed in the overnight barrage which also left around 50 wounded. At least four more people were injured after a fresh round of strikes on Kharkiv, on Tuesday evening. Interior Minister Igor Klymenko praised rescuers who he said pulled some 27 survivors out of the rubble. Kharkiv’s mayor, Ihor Terekhov, said rescuers discovered the body of a nine-year-old girl under rubble; her mother had also been killed. Meanwhile, in Kyiv, emergency services said 22 people, including four children, had been wounded across at least three districts in the attacks which set buildings and cars ablaze in central districts. “There was a very loud bang, and my mother was already running outside, shouting that we need to leave. We all went to the corridor,” said Daniel Boliukh, 21, as quoted by Reuters. “Then, we went on the balcony to have a look, and saw all these buildings were on fire.” Residential buildings and medical and educational institutions were damaged in Kyiv, according to emergency services. Ukraine’s commander-in-chief claimed that the country’s armed forces destroyed 22 of 44 missiles of various types. At least 20 were shot down over the Ukrainian capital, said Kyiv’s military administration. In Kherson, Governor Oleksandr Prokudin said Russian aircraft pounded the region throughout the day. According to officials, two people had been killed in the region. ALSO READ | Ukraine officials blame Russian missile strike for damage to gas pipeline in Kharkiv Further south, in the Ukrainian city of Pavlograd, the Dnipropetrovsk regional governor said one person had been killed and another wounded. ‘Typical terrorist state’ “Ordinary life is what Russia sees as a threat to itself. The state is a typical terrorist,” said a sombre Ukrainian president. He added, “Let them know in Russia that the Ukrainian character knows how to be far-reaching enough in response.” Defence Minister Rustem Umerov told a recent international ministerial meeting on Kyiv’s defence needs that Russia was stepping up missile attacks. Moscow's forces had used more than 600 missiles and over 1,000 drones over the past two months, he said. Meanwhile, the Kremlin, responding to questions from reporters about the attacks, denied that Russian forces had targeted civilian infrastructure in Ukraine. “Our military does not hit civilian facilities or residential neighbourhoods, and does not hit civilians – unlike the Kyiv regime,” said spokesperson Dmitry Peskov. (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.

At least 18 killed, more than 130 injured in Russian strikes across Ukrainian cities; Zelensky vows revenge

The CIA has launched a new campaign with a video aimed at recruiting Russians to spy for the US. CNN's Alex Marquardt reports.

CIA launches video to recruit Russian spies

Russian anti-war candidate gathers signatures to challenge Putin in presidential run

The Russia-Ukraine war looks all set to enter its third year. In the latest Russia has carried out another wave of attacks on Ukraine. Killing 18 people and injuring over 130 as per Vlodymyr Zelensky. What lies ahead? Dr. Malcolm Davis, senior analyst in Defence Strategy and capability at the Australian strategic policy institute joined us to discuss.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russia carries out another wave of attacks on Ukraine

Will Russia see a Putin opponent in March polls? Russian missiles hit two Ukrainian cities

Russia-Ukraine war continues to rage on. There is no end in sight as war enters 2024. Both Kyiv & Moscow are attacking inside each other's territories. Now, Putin vows to intensify attacks on Ukraine. Watch this video for all details.

Russian President Vladimir Putin says Russia will 'intensify' attacks on Ukraine

Russia unleashed a deadly airstrike on Ukraine today, an attack that killed at least seven people and injured over 60. The early morning missile attacks primarily targeted. Ukraine's two largest cities, the capital Kyiv in the east and Kharkiv in the west.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russian missile target Kyiv & Kharkiv

On the other war front, the Ukraine-Russia conflict is nearing the two-year mark, but Moscow is no mood to relent. It continues to pound Ukraine. While Zelensky's appetite for weapons keeps on increasing. NATO has now signed a $1.2-billion contract to make tens of thousands of artillery rounds and replenish dwindling stocks of member countries.

Russia-Ukraine war: Europe is running out of weapons

Russia and Ukraine have exchanged hundreds of prisoners of war in the biggest single release of captives since Russia’s invasion began in February 2022.

Russia and Ukraine exchange hundreds of prisoners of war

The western sanctions on Russia are finally hurting the country's trade. According to data intelligence provider, tankers carrying Russian so called grade oil were unable to supply to India and because of payment issues amid increasing sanctions.

Are sanctions on Russia finally hurting? India's crude imports from Russia hit on payments issues

Russia's foreign minister clashed with the United States and Ukraine’s supporters at a U.N. meeting Monday where Moscow ruled out any peace plan backed by Kyiv and the West, and China warned that further global chaos could impact the slowing global economy.

UNSC Meet: Sergey Lavrov rules out peace plans supported by Kyiv and West

Russian strikes come a day after deadliest attack in Belgorod. Ukraine downs drones as Russia retaliates for Belgorod attacks.

Russia-Ukraine war: Five killed in attacks on Donetsk, Odesa

At least 27&nbsp;people have been killed and 25&nbsp;others were injured after Ukrainian forces shelled the Moscow-controlled city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine, on Sunday (Jan 21) said the city’s Russia-installed mayor.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Russian forces took control of the village of Krokhmalne in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region, said the Russian Defence Ministry, on Sunday (Jan 21). A Ukrainian military spokesman confirmed that Kyiv’s forces had withdrawn from the village.&nbsp;

<h2>'Barbaric terrorist act'</h2>

Ukrainian forces shelled a busy area where shops and a market are located in the Russian-controlled city, said Alexei Kulemzin, the city’s Russian-installed mayor. Kyiv did not immediately comment on the incident.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine faces shortage of ammunition, Zelensky says 'world not producing enough'

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The death toll marks one of the deadliest reported in Donetsk in recent months. Meanwhile, Moscow-installed head of the Donetsk region, Denis Pushilin had earlier said that 13 people had died in a “terrible bombing on a market”. He added, “The market was attacked on Sunday, when it is busiest.”

Pushilin announced a day of mourning on Monday in the Donetsk People's Republic, referring to the&nbsp;name given to the part of the region Russia says it has annexed.

Moscow on Sunday called the strike on the market a&nbsp;"barbaric terrorist act" that showed what Russia calls&nbsp;its "special military operation" in Ukraine.&nbsp;

"The neo-Nazi Kyiv regime, with the support of the United States and its satellites, once again committed a barbaric terrorist act against the civilian population of Russia," said the Russian foreign ministry.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-conflict-trumps-stop-the-war-in-24-hrs-claim-very-dangerous-says-zelensky-681953">Ukraine conflict: Trump's 'stop the war in 24 hrs' claim 'very dangerous,' says Zelensky</a>

Kulemzin had earlier reported shelling on the northeast of the city. Moscow claimed to have annexed Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region in 2022 but does not control the entire territory.&nbsp;

Ukraine's forces in the Tavria, or southern zone, said in a Facebook post that soldiers under its command were not responsible. "Donetsk is Ukraine!" said the post, as per Reuters. It added, "Russia will have to answer for taking lives of Ukrainians."

The recent attack comes weeks after Russian-controlled authorities, on January 1 claimed that four people had been killed and 13 were wounded, including journalists, in strikes in Donetsk.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia takes village in Kharkiv</h2>

Russian forces have taken control of the Ukrainian village of Krokhmalne, days after the Russian defence ministry claimed that its personnel took over a settlement named Vesele in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region.

This comes as Russia has recently ramped up its offensive in eastern Ukrainian towns such as Kupiansk, Lyman and Avdiivka, but has only managed to make small gains so far.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-fire-breaks-out-at-gas-terminal-in-ust-luga-port-ukrainian-drone-sighted-in-area-682046">Russia: Fire breaks out at gas terminal in Ust-Luga port; Ukrainian drones sighted in area</a>

Ukrainian military spokesperson Volodymyr Fitio confirmed Russia’s capture but told national television that it had no impact on the overall situation.

“Our main goal is to save the lives of our defenders and they were moved to pre-prepared positions where they are now holding defences to prevent the enemy from advancing further,” said Fitio.&nbsp;

Krokhmalne had five houses and before the war was home to only 45 people, according to the Ukrainian military spokesperson. The “several hundred metres” captured by Russian troops were of no consequence and called the capture a “temporary phenomenon”.&nbsp;

This comes after Ukrainian officials in recent days have urged residents in the Kharkiv region to evacuate, citing worsening Russian attacks in the area. Some 3,000 people were evacuated, reported AFP.&nbsp;

(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

At least 27 people have been killed and 25 others were injured after Ukrainian forces shelled the Moscow-controlled city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine, on Sunday (Jan 21) said the city’s Russia-installed mayor.

At least 27 people have been killed and 25 others were injured after Ukrainian forces shelled the Moscow-controlled city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine, on Sunday (Jan 21) said the city’s Russia-installed mayor. Meanwhile, Russian forces took control of the village of Krokhmalne in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region, said the Russian Defence Ministry, on Sunday (Jan 21). A Ukrainian military spokesman confirmed that Kyiv’s forces had withdrawn from the village. 'Barbaric terrorist act' Ukrainian forces shelled a busy area where shops and a market are located in the Russian-controlled city, said Alexei Kulemzin, the city’s Russian-installed mayor. Kyiv did not immediately comment on the incident. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine faces shortage of ammunition, Zelensky says 'world not producing enough' The death toll marks one of the deadliest reported in Donetsk in recent months. Meanwhile, Moscow-installed head of the Donetsk region, Denis Pushilin had earlier said that 13 people had died in a “terrible bombing on a market”. He added, “The market was attacked on Sunday, when it is busiest.” Pushilin announced a day of mourning on Monday in the Donetsk People's Republic, referring to the name given to the part of the region Russia says it has annexed. Moscow on Sunday called the strike on the market a "barbaric terrorist act" that showed what Russia calls its "special military operation" in Ukraine. "The neo-Nazi Kyiv regime, with the support of the United States and its satellites, once again committed a barbaric terrorist act against the civilian population of Russia," said the Russian foreign ministry. ALSO READ | Ukraine conflict: Trump's 'stop the war in 24 hrs' claim 'very dangerous,' says Zelensky Kulemzin had earlier reported shelling on the northeast of the city. Moscow claimed to have annexed Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region in 2022 but does not control the entire territory. Ukraine's forces in the Tavria, or southern zone, said in a Facebook post that soldiers under its command were not responsible. "Donetsk is Ukraine!" said the post, as per Reuters. It added, "Russia will have to answer for taking lives of Ukrainians." The recent attack comes weeks after Russian-controlled authorities, on January 1 claimed that four people had been killed and 13 were wounded, including journalists, in strikes in Donetsk. Russia takes village in Kharkiv Russian forces have taken control of the Ukrainian village of Krokhmalne, days after the Russian defence ministry claimed that its personnel took over a settlement named Vesele in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region. This comes as Russia has recently ramped up its offensive in eastern Ukrainian towns such as Kupiansk, Lyman and Avdiivka, but has only managed to make small gains so far. ALSO READ | Russia: Fire breaks out at gas terminal in Ust-Luga port; Ukrainian drones sighted in area Ukrainian military spokesperson Volodymyr Fitio confirmed Russia’s capture but told national television that it had no impact on the overall situation. “Our main goal is to save the lives of our defenders and they were moved to pre-prepared positions where they are now holding defences to prevent the enemy from advancing further,” said Fitio. Krokhmalne had five houses and before the war was home to only 45 people, according to the Ukrainian military spokesperson. The “several hundred metres” captured by Russian troops were of no consequence and called the capture a “temporary phenomenon”. This comes after Ukrainian officials in recent days have urged residents in the Kharkiv region to evacuate, citing worsening Russian attacks in the area. Some 3,000 people were evacuated, reported AFP. (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

At least 27 killed after Ukraine shells Russian-controlled Donetsk; Moscow calls it ‘barbaric terrorist act’

Shattered storefronts, broken glass, civilian casualties, and artillery shells struck a suburb of the Russian occupied Donetsk in Eastern Ukraine on Sunday, killing at least 27 people.

Russia-Ukraine war: Strike on busy market in Russia-held Donetsk, at least 27 killed

Ukraine on Thursday (Jan 18) launched a drone attack targeting an oil terminal in St Petersburg as a part of its "new stage of work" in the region, news agency Reuters reported citing comments by a Ukrainian military source.

Reuters could not independently verify the statement, however, the Kyiv Independent also reported the latest development.

"There are confirmed hits. This is a new stage of work in this region," the Ukrainian source said.

Earlier, as per Reuters reports, a Russian-appointed official in occupied southeastern Ukraine said that Kyiv had made failed attempts overnight to target a Russian Baltic Sea oil terminal with a drone strike.

Russia had earlier released a statement to have intercepted a Ukraine drone in the Leningrad region.

It had also released a statement claiming to have shot down drones near Moscow and missiles over the Belgorod border region.

"In the town of Podolsk an attack by a drone flying toward Moscow was repulsed by air defences," Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ship-carrying-9-indians-attacked-in-gulf-of-aden-indian-navy-comes-to-rescue-681146">Ship carrying 9 Indians attacked in Gulf of Aden, Indian Navy comes to rescue</a>

<h2>Ukraine warns of low ammunition</h2>

Meanwhile, Ukraine's defence minister issued a warning stating that the country was facing a "very real and pressing" shortage of ammunition in its battles against Russian invasion.

"A shortage of ammunition is a very real and pressing problem that our armed forces are facing at present," Rustem Umerov posted on X after speaking via a video link to the gathering led by France and the United States.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war | Russia steps up offensive near Bakhmut

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"The artillery coalition is aimed at solving this issue," he said.

This was when Western allies held a meeting in Paris to lock in a deal on new artillery supplies.

French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu, while hosting the event said that France would cover the cost of 12 new guns out of 78 that it could manufacture this year.

"I spoke with (French President) Emmanuel Macron to thank France for launching the artillery coalition and for its manufacture of guns and ammunition," Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on X.

The two leaders also discussed the "need to further strengthen Ukraine's air defence", he added.

<h2>Russia says it captured village in eastern Ukraine</h2>

On the other hand, Russia on Thursday said that it had seized a small village in the eastern part of Ukraine.

"In the Donetsk direction, as a result of successful actions of Southern Group troop units, the settlement of Vesele in the Donetsk People's Republic was liberated," Russia's defence ministry said.

Vesele village lies 20 kilometres (12 miles) northeast of Bakhmut, which was targeted by months of artillery shelling and urban combat earlier in the conflict.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine on Thursday (Jan 18) launched a drone attack targeting an oil terminal in St Petersburg as a part of its "new stage of work" in the region, news agency Reuters reported citing comments by a Ukrainian military source.

Ukraine on Thursday (Jan 18) launched a drone attack targeting an oil terminal in St Petersburg as a part of its "new stage of work" in the region, news agency Reuters reported citing comments by a Ukrainian military source. Reuters could not independently verify the statement, however, the Kyiv Independent also reported the latest development. "There are confirmed hits. This is a new stage of work in this region," the Ukrainian source said. Earlier, as per Reuters reports, a Russian-appointed official in occupied southeastern Ukraine said that Kyiv had made failed attempts overnight to target a Russian Baltic Sea oil terminal with a drone strike. Russia had earlier released a statement to have intercepted a Ukraine drone in the Leningrad region. It had also released a statement claiming to have shot down drones near Moscow and missiles over the Belgorod border region. "In the town of Podolsk an attack by a drone flying toward Moscow was repulsed by air defences," Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said. Also read: Ship carrying 9 Indians attacked in Gulf of Aden, Indian Navy comes to rescue Ukraine warns of low ammunition Meanwhile, Ukraine's defence minister issued a warning stating that the country was facing a "very real and pressing" shortage of ammunition in its battles against Russian invasion. "A shortage of ammunition is a very real and pressing problem that our armed forces are facing at present," Rustem Umerov posted on X after speaking via a video link to the gathering led by France and the United States. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war | Russia steps up offensive near Bakhmut × "The artillery coalition is aimed at solving this issue," he said. This was when Western allies held a meeting in Paris to lock in a deal on new artillery supplies. French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu, while hosting the event said that France would cover the cost of 12 new guns out of 78 that it could manufacture this year. "I spoke with (French President) Emmanuel Macron to thank France for launching the artillery coalition and for its manufacture of guns and ammunition," Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on X. The two leaders also discussed the "need to further strengthen Ukraine's air defence", he added. Russia says it captured village in eastern Ukraine On the other hand, Russia on Thursday said that it had seized a small village in the eastern part of Ukraine. "In the Donetsk direction, as a result of successful actions of Southern Group troop units, the settlement of Vesele in the Donetsk People's Republic was liberated," Russia's defence ministry said. Vesele village lies 20 kilometres (12 miles) northeast of Bakhmut, which was targeted by months of artillery shelling and urban combat earlier in the conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine says it hit targets in Russia during attack on oil terminal in St Petersburg

"A shortage of ammunition is a very real and pressing problem that our armed forces are facing right now," Defence Minister Rustem Umerov wrote on X after speaking by video link to the group led by France and the United States.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine faces shortage of ammunition, Zelensky says 'world not producing enough'

Russia-Ukraine war: The victory in war may come down to who can last longer

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine facing critical ammunition shortage | Zelensky balmes world production

In Davos, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky is once again there in making a passionate speech and a plea to leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos. He urged the panel not to allow Russia's war in Ukraine to become "Frozen."

Russia-Ukraine war | Zelensky presses allies to help Ukraine

Two Russian missiles struck a residential area in the centre of Ukraine's second city Kharkiv on Tuesday, injuring 17 people, two of them seriously, and badly damaging homes, local officials said.

Rescue teams were sifting through piles of rubble to establish whether others were hurt. The city's mayor described two "powerful explosions" and said at least 10 dwellings had been damaged.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin says Russia will 'intensify' attacks on Ukraine

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Ukraine's Emergency Services, writing on the Telegram messaging app, said one of the missiles had hit a three-storey building that had previously housed a medical centre.

Fires were extinguished in two buildings and residential and other buildings sustained damage.

Regional Police Chief Volodymyr Tymoshko told public broadcaster Suspilne that one of the missiles had hit a roadway.

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Emergency services posted online photos showing rescue teams poring over piles of smashed building materials, tackling fires, scrambling up ladders to damaged upper storeys and helping evacuees board minibuses.

Kharkiv Regional Governor Oleh Synehubov, writing on the Telegram messaging app, said 17 people had been injured. Fourteen were in hospital, including two women who were seriously hurt.

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Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov, also writing on Telegram, said the missiles struck "precisely where there is no military infrastructure and precisely where there are in fact residences."

"There are at least 10 damaged buildings. Rescue teams are continuing to go through the rubble. And there is plenty of rubble." 
 
Kharkiv, in Ukraine's northeast, has been a frequent target of attacks, but in the space of the nearly two-year-old conflict, the city has not fallen into Russian hands. Russian missiles hit a hotel in the city last week, injuring 11 people.

Two Russian missiles struck a residential area in the centre of Ukraine's second city Kharkiv on Tuesday, injuring 17 people, two of them seriously, and badly damaging homes, local officials said.

Two Russian missiles struck a residential area in the centre of Ukraine's second city Kharkiv on Tuesday, injuring 17 people, two of them seriously, and badly damaging homes, local officials said. Rescue teams were sifting through piles of rubble to establish whether others were hurt. The city's mayor described two "powerful explosions" and said at least 10 dwellings had been damaged. WATCH | Russian President Vladimir Putin says Russia will 'intensify' attacks on Ukraine Ukraine's Emergency Services, writing on the Telegram messaging app, said one of the missiles had hit a three-storey building that had previously housed a medical centre. Fires were extinguished in two buildings and residential and other buildings sustained damage. Regional Police Chief Volodymyr Tymoshko told public broadcaster Suspilne that one of the missiles had hit a roadway. ALSO READ | Russia’s Voronezh declares state of emergency as Ukraine drone attack injures two children Emergency services posted online photos showing rescue teams poring over piles of smashed building materials, tackling fires, scrambling up ladders to damaged upper storeys and helping evacuees board minibuses. Kharkiv Regional Governor Oleh Synehubov, writing on the Telegram messaging app, said 17 people had been injured. Fourteen were in hospital, including two women who were seriously hurt. ALSO READ | Russia unleashes 40 missiles in overnight assault; Ukraine’s military production complex hit Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov, also writing on Telegram, said the missiles struck "precisely where there is no military infrastructure and precisely where there are in fact residences." "There are at least 10 damaged buildings. Rescue teams are continuing to go through the rubble. And there is plenty of rubble." Kharkiv, in Ukraine's northeast, has been a frequent target of attacks, but in the space of the nearly two-year-old conflict, the city has not fallen into Russian hands. Russian missiles hit a hotel in the city last week, injuring 11 people.

At least 17 injured after Russian missiles hit Ukraine’s Kharkiv

Russian missiles pounded a residential area in Ukraine's second-largest city Kharkiv. The missile strikes injured at least 11 people, with one person suffering serious injuries. No casualties were reported.

Russia-Ukraine war: At least 17 injured after two Russian missiles hit Kharkiv

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