President Zelensky's Washington visit to secure aid for Ukraine has been overshadowed by a U.S. domestic policy dispute. Republicans are demanding border policy changes in exchange for support for Ukraine aid, a stance that Democrats find unreasonable. As the White House warns of the exhaustion of previous aid, the future of American support for Ukraine hangs in the balance.

Gravitas | Border Policy Dispute in U.S. Congress Impacts Ukraine Aid During Zelensky's Visit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived on Tuesday in US Congress to press increasingly reluctant Republicans to back his country's fight against Russian invasion with renewed US military aid but was unable to do so.

Zelensky in US | US President Joe Biden vows that he will not walk away from Ukraine

Zelensky in US: Russia scoffs at impact of US support; Biden says, 'Will not walk away from Ukraine'

Zelensky in US: Ukraine President Zelesnky unable to win over US Congress as he pleads for aid

President Joe Biden warned Republicans on Tuesday that they would give Russia a "Christmas gift" if they failed to provide additional military aid to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, whose meeting with a top US lawmaker concluded without a commitment for more support.

Russia-Ukraine war: "I will not walk away from the Ukraine," vows US President Joe Biden

Ukrainian capital Kyiv was rocked by multiple explosions early Wednesday (Dec 13) as it came under a Russian missile attack.

Kyiv’s mayor said 53&nbsp;people were injured in the “enemy attack,” the second offensive in a week after a long hiatus.

"According to medics, seven people have already been injured as a result of the enemy attack on Kyiv. Five were hospitalised in the capital's medical institutions," Mayor Vitali Klitschko posted on social media.

The mayor also said that the debris from intercepted missiles caused injuries to three people and damaged buildings.

Earlier on Monday, another Russian missile attack rendered more than 100 homes in Kyiv powerless.&nbsp;The attack came as Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky visited Washington DC and had a meeting with US President Joe Biden.

<h2>Ukraine’s top network operator targeted</h2>

Ukraine was also hit by a major cyberattack that reportedly disrupted its main mobile network, Kyivstar and its largest bank, PrivatBank.

Kyivstar is estimated to have 24 million users and a million home internet users, all of whom were left without internet access. Ukraine said its agencies were investigating the attack, without giving any further details.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-arrives-at-white-house-for-aid-talks-with-joe-biden-669060">Also read:&nbsp;Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200m emergency aid drawdown</a>

PrivatBank also reported some of its cash machines were not working and might be "unstable" or "have no connection".

Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said in a statement that Russian hackers could be behind this powerful attack.

“One of the versions currently being investigated by SBU investigators is that the Russian special services may be behind this hacker attack,” it said.

<h2>Zelensky on ceding territory to Russia</h2>

Amid calls to strike peace with Russia by ceding the occupied territories, Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 12) said the idea was “insane.”

Reacting angrily to the question by the press, Zelensky said, “Why would Ukraine give up its territory? That’s insane actually. We have women and children living there. It’s a matter of families and their history. We are not going to give up territories to terrorists.”

Watch:&nbsp;Zelensky arrives in us congress to push for military aid to Ukraine

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He added that allies needed to send a “strong signal of our unity” to Russia.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian capital Kyiv was rocked by multiple explosions early Wednesday (Dec 13) as it came under a Russian missile attack. Kyiv’s mayor said 53 people were injured in the “enemy attack,” the second offensive in a week after a long hiatus.

Ukrainian capital Kyiv was rocked by multiple explosions early Wednesday (Dec 13) as it came under a Russian missile attack. Kyiv’s mayor said 53 people were injured in the “enemy attack,” the second offensive in a week after a long hiatus. "According to medics, seven people have already been injured as a result of the enemy attack on Kyiv. Five were hospitalised in the capital's medical institutions," Mayor Vitali Klitschko posted on social media. The mayor also said that the debris from intercepted missiles caused injuries to three people and damaged buildings. Earlier on Monday, another Russian missile attack rendered more than 100 homes in Kyiv powerless. The attack came as Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky visited Washington DC and had a meeting with US President Joe Biden. Ukraine’s top network operator targeted Ukraine was also hit by a major cyberattack that reportedly disrupted its main mobile network, Kyivstar and its largest bank, PrivatBank. Kyivstar is estimated to have 24 million users and a million home internet users, all of whom were left without internet access. Ukraine said its agencies were investigating the attack, without giving any further details. Also read: Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200m emergency aid drawdown PrivatBank also reported some of its cash machines were not working and might be "unstable" or "have no connection". Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said in a statement that Russian hackers could be behind this powerful attack. “One of the versions currently being investigated by SBU investigators is that the Russian special services may be behind this hacker attack,” it said. Zelensky on ceding territory to Russia Amid calls to strike peace with Russia by ceding the occupied territories, Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 12) said the idea was “insane.” Reacting angrily to the question by the press, Zelensky said, “Why would Ukraine give up its territory? That’s insane actually. We have women and children living there. It’s a matter of families and their history. We are not going to give up territories to terrorists.” Watch: Zelensky arrives in us congress to push for military aid to Ukraine × He added that allies needed to send a “strong signal of our unity” to Russia. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war: Missile attack rocks Kyiv, cyberattack leaves millions without internet

Russia has lost nearly 90 per cent of its total number of active-duty ground troops which it had before launching its invasion of Ukraine, reported the American media citing a declassified intelligence report by the United States. The report also comes as the Ukrainian president is in the midst of a visit to Washington and made a last-ditch plea for more military aid to US lawmakers on Capitol Hill.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia suffers heavy losses</h2>

A report by Reuters citing a source familiar with the intelligence, on Tuesday (Dec 12) said that Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 with 360,000 personnel.&nbsp;

Since then, according to the report at least 315,000 Russian troops, or about 87 per cent of the total number of troops have been killed or injured.&nbsp;

The report has attributed this staggering loss to the relaxed recruitment standards for deployment in Ukraine, the source told Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-arrives-at-white-house-for-aid-talks-with-joe-biden-669060">Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200m emergency aid drawdown</a>

“The scale of losses has forced Russia to take extraordinary measures to sustain its ability to fight. Russia declared a partial mobilization of 300,000 personnel in late 2022, and has relaxed standards to allow recruitment of convicts and older civilians,” the source told the news agency.&nbsp;

However, these losses have not stopped Russian President Vladimir Putin who is determined to push forward as the war approaches its second anniversary early next year.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has warned American lawmakers about handing a victory to Russia and reaffirmed support for the war-torn country.&nbsp;

So far, the US has sent more than $100 billion in aid to Ukraine, and Republicans are sceptical about sending more aid to Kyiv.&nbsp;

“The idea that Ukraine was going to throw Russia back to the 1991 borders was preposterous,” JD Vance, a Republican senator from the US state of Ohio said on CNN’s State of the Union over the weekend, suggesting that Kyiv may have to cede land to Russia to end the invasion.

“So what we’re saying to the president and really to the entire world is, you need to articulate what the ambition is. What is $61 billion going to accomplish that $100 billion hasn’t?” he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-republican-block-ukraine-israel-aid-bill-over-immigration-row-667007">US Senate Republicans block Ukraine, Israel aid bill over immigration row</a>

The Republican senator was referring to Biden’s broader $106 billion emergency spending package – which is pending approval from Congress – out of which $61 billion is allocated for military funds for Ukraine. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Russia lost thousands of tanks, armoured vehicles</h2>

The Russian army reportedly has lost two-thirds of its pre-invasion tanks, going as far as dipping into Soviet-era stockpiles of older equipment to keep up. The Russian army began the war with 3,100 tanks out of which they have lost 2,200, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

Moscow also has had to “backfill” that force with T62 tanks produced in the 1970s, leaving only 1,300 tanks on the battlefield, according to US intelligence. Meanwhile, CNN citing the assessment said that the war has “sharply set back 15 years of Russian effort to modernize its ground force.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-passes-14-billion-aid-package-for-israel-without-ukraine-to-be-rejected-by-senate-654562">US House passes $14 billion aid package for Israel, but not Ukraine</a>

The American media outlet citing a previously declassified report said Russia seemingly believes that the military deadlock will last through winter and “drain” the Western support for Ukraine and “ultimately give Russia the advantage” despite heavy losses. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

However, since neither Russia nor Ukraine released official figures, they could be far from accurate. Russian officials have previously dismissed&nbsp;Western estimates of Russian death tolls in the war and called them&nbsp;vastly exaggerated.

(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.&nbsp;

Russia has lost nearly 90 per cent of its total number of active-duty ground troops which it had before launching its invasion of Ukraine, reported the American media citing a declassified intelligence report by the United States.

Russia has lost nearly 90 per cent of its total number of active-duty ground troops which it had before launching its invasion of Ukraine, reported the American media citing a declassified intelligence report by the United States. The report also comes as the Ukrainian president is in the midst of a visit to Washington and made a last-ditch plea for more military aid to US lawmakers on Capitol Hill. Russia suffers heavy losses A report by Reuters citing a source familiar with the intelligence, on Tuesday (Dec 12) said that Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 with 360,000 personnel. Since then, according to the report at least 315,000 Russian troops, or about 87 per cent of the total number of troops have been killed or injured. The report has attributed this staggering loss to the relaxed recruitment standards for deployment in Ukraine, the source told Reuters. ALSO READ | Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200m emergency aid drawdown “The scale of losses has forced Russia to take extraordinary measures to sustain its ability to fight. Russia declared a partial mobilization of 300,000 personnel in late 2022, and has relaxed standards to allow recruitment of convicts and older civilians,” the source told the news agency. However, these losses have not stopped Russian President Vladimir Putin who is determined to push forward as the war approaches its second anniversary early next year. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has warned American lawmakers about handing a victory to Russia and reaffirmed support for the war-torn country. So far, the US has sent more than $100 billion in aid to Ukraine, and Republicans are sceptical about sending more aid to Kyiv. “The idea that Ukraine was going to throw Russia back to the 1991 borders was preposterous,” JD Vance, a Republican senator from the US state of Ohio said on CNN’s State of the Union over the weekend, suggesting that Kyiv may have to cede land to Russia to end the invasion. “So what we’re saying to the president and really to the entire world is, you need to articulate what the ambition is. What is $61 billion going to accomplish that $100 billion hasn’t?” he added. ALSO READ | US Senate Republicans block Ukraine, Israel aid bill over immigration row The Republican senator was referring to Biden’s broader $106 billion emergency spending package – which is pending approval from Congress – out of which $61 billion is allocated for military funds for Ukraine. Russia lost thousands of tanks, armoured vehicles The Russian army reportedly has lost two-thirds of its pre-invasion tanks, going as far as dipping into Soviet-era stockpiles of older equipment to keep up. The Russian army began the war with 3,100 tanks out of which they have lost 2,200, reported Reuters. Moscow also has had to “backfill” that force with T62 tanks produced in the 1970s, leaving only 1,300 tanks on the battlefield, according to US intelligence. Meanwhile, CNN citing the assessment said that the war has “sharply set back 15 years of Russian effort to modernize its ground force.” ALSO READ | US House passes $14 billion aid package for Israel, but not Ukraine The American media outlet citing a previously declassified report said Russia seemingly believes that the military deadlock will last through winter and “drain” the Western support for Ukraine and “ultimately give Russia the advantage” despite heavy losses. However, since neither Russia nor Ukraine released official figures, they could be far from accurate. Russian officials have previously dismissed Western estimates of Russian death tolls in the war and called them vastly exaggerated. (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 has cost Russia nearly 90% of its troops, claims US intelligence report

President Vladimir Putin attended a televised flag-raising ceremony on Monday for two nuclear submarines that he said were part of a strategic drive to project Russian naval power. Putin travelled to the northern city of Severodvinsk to view the vessels, the Krasnoyarsk and Emperor Alexander the Third, at the Sevmash shipbuilding yard.

Putin views new nuclear submarines, says more are being rolled out

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived Tuesday in US Congress to press increasingly reluctant Republicans to back his country's fight against Russian invasion with renewed US military aid.

Zelensky arrives in us congress to push for military aid to Ukraine

Russia's presidential election next March will include voting in four regions of Ukraine that Russia claimed as its own territory last year, Interfax news agency quoted the central election commission as saying on Monday.

Russia to hold presidential election in four annexed Ukrainian regions

Zelensky is all set to embark on his third visit to Washington since the war in Ukraine began. He last visited in September. Aid for Ukraine in its effort to ward off Russia will be a prime agenda here, but will Zelensky be able to navigate his way around the divisions in the U.S. leaders on continuing the aid for Ukraine?

US: Zelensky arrives in US; meets with IMF, military officers & lawmakers in bid to unlock aid

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made an impassioned plea for continued US military support Monday in a Washington speech, warning that failure to help his country is fulfilling the Kremlin’s “dreams”. The IMF has approved a $900 Mn payout for Ukraine, Will this impact U.S. ongoing debate over aid for Ukraine? What are Zelensky's chances of gaining aid for Ukraine?

Russia-Ukraine : ‘Delays in Ukraine Aid Will Fulfil Putin’s Dreams’ - Zelensky

Narges, who is serving a 10-year sentence in Tehran, was honoured the Nobel Peace Prize “for her fight against the oppression of women in Iran.”

2023 Nobel Prize winner Narges Mohammadi's children recieve award as she is in prison | WION

The voting for Russian presidential elections, which is scheduled to be held in March 2024, is set to be conducted also in the four Ukrainian regions that Russia claims to have annexed last year, Moscow said in a statement on Monday (Dec 11).

The Central Elections Commission said that the voting in March would be given a go-ahead in Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, the Ukrainian regions where Russia still doesn't have complete military control.

"The decision was adopted unanimously," commission vice-president Nikolay Bulayev said, according to the state-run news agency TASS.

The elections are set to be conducted over three days from March 15 to 17.

Earlier, Ukraine had urged the international community to "resolutely condemn Russia's intention to hold presidential elections in the occupied Ukrainian territories".

Kyiv had also called on the West to sanction individuals responsible.

Russia had previously also conducted elections in occupied regions of Ukraine. The polling was condemned by Kyiv and the West and was dubbed as null and void.

In the month of September, Moscow had also held ballots for local officials in the four Ukrainian regions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-two-injured-after-russian-strike-on-kyiv-biden-to-host-zelensky-at-white-house-amid-deadlock-on-aid-668361">At least 4 injured after airstrike on Kyiv; Biden to host Zelensky at W. House</a>

A year earlier, it had held a "referendum" to annex the territories.&nbsp;

Both the votes were denounced by Kyiv and the West.

<h2>Putin to run again in presidential polls</h2>

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to take part in the upcoming presidential vote, giving him a chance to extend his decades-long grip on power.&nbsp;

As per state-run news agencies, Putin told Lieutenant Colonel Artyom Zhoga, a Russian military officer, about this decision following an awards ceremony for army personnel at the Kremlin.&nbsp;

This came after Russian lawmakers on Thursday moved Putin a step closer to a fifth term in office by setting the date of the country's 2024 presidential election for March 17, which was voted unanimously by the members of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly.&nbsp;

Valentina Matviyenko, the head of the chamber, had said "With this decision, we are effectively launching the start of the election campaign."&nbsp;

She said, "By choosing a head of state together, we fully share the common responsibility and common destiny of our fatherland."&nbsp;

Even though five major parties have been allowed to submit a candidate for the vote, Putin is likely to win the elections as most of his critics, who could challenge him, are either in jail or in exile.

(With inputs from agencies)

The voting for Russian presidential elections, which is scheduled to be held in March 2024, is set to be conducted also in the four Ukrainian regions that Russia claims to have annexed last year, Moscow said in a statement on Monday (Dec 11).

The voting for Russian presidential elections, which is scheduled to be held in March 2024, is set to be conducted also in the four Ukrainian regions that Russia claims to have annexed last year, Moscow said in a statement on Monday (Dec 11). The Central Elections Commission said that the voting in March would be given a go-ahead in Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, the Ukrainian regions where Russia still doesn't have complete military control. "The decision was adopted unanimously," commission vice-president Nikolay Bulayev said, according to the state-run news agency TASS. The elections are set to be conducted over three days from March 15 to 17. Earlier, Ukraine had urged the international community to "resolutely condemn Russia's intention to hold presidential elections in the occupied Ukrainian territories". Kyiv had also called on the West to sanction individuals responsible. Russia had previously also conducted elections in occupied regions of Ukraine. The polling was condemned by Kyiv and the West and was dubbed as null and void. In the month of September, Moscow had also held ballots for local officials in the four Ukrainian regions. Also read: At least 4 injured after airstrike on Kyiv; Biden to host Zelensky at W. House A year earlier, it had held a "referendum" to annex the territories. Both the votes were denounced by Kyiv and the West. Putin to run again in presidential polls Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to take part in the upcoming presidential vote, giving him a chance to extend his decades-long grip on power. As per state-run news agencies, Putin told Lieutenant Colonel Artyom Zhoga, a Russian military officer, about this decision following an awards ceremony for army personnel at the Kremlin. This came after Russian lawmakers on Thursday moved Putin a step closer to a fifth term in office by setting the date of the country's 2024 presidential election for March 17, which was voted unanimously by the members of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly. Valentina Matviyenko, the head of the chamber, had said "With this decision, we are effectively launching the start of the election campaign." She said, "By choosing a head of state together, we fully share the common responsibility and common destiny of our fatherland." Even though five major parties have been allowed to submit a candidate for the vote, Putin is likely to win the elections as most of his critics, who could challenge him, are either in jail or in exile. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia to hold presidential vote in four occupied Ukrainian regions

Ukrainian President Zelensky who will be travelling to US this week to meet President Joe Biden, will plead his case before Republicans who are opposed to sending more money for Ukraine's fight against Russia.

Zelesnky to meet with Biden, US Republicans, invited to address US Senators in Capitol | World DNA

Russia's Federal Security Bureau (FSB) said on Monday (Dec 11) that it had detected and cracked a network of Ukrainian agents in Russia-occupied Crimea who were&nbsp;attempting&nbsp;to assassinate pro-Russian figures. The intelligence service, which is the main successor to the Soviet era spy agency KGB, said that targets of the Ukrainian network included Sergei Aksyonov, the Russia-appointed head of Crimea and also Oleg Tsaryov, a former pro-Russian member of Ukrainian parliament.

In October this year, Tsaryiv was shot twice but survived. The attack took place in Crimea that was occupied by Russia&nbsp;from Ukraine in 2014. Reuters has reported citing a source in Ukraine's SBU intelligence agency that this was an SBU operation.

Watch | Ukraine's Zelensky to meet President Biden as war funding against Russia is decreasing

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The FSB said on Monday that the Ukrainian network it cracked, had in the past, also targeted railway and energy infrastructure in Crimea. The FSB said that it has found arms and explosives and had also detained 18 "agents and accomplices of the Ukrainian special services".

<h2>Shot down eight missiles fired towards Kyiv, says Ukraine</h2>

Meanwhile on Monday, Ukraine said that it had shot down eight Russian missiles that were fired towards the Ukrainian capital Kyiv. Ukraine's air force said that in addition to these missiles 18 attack drones were shot down across Ukraine.

Ukraine says as winter sets in, Russia had again begun to hit Ukraine's energy infrastructure.

Kyiv officials said that the country's air defences shot down the Russian missiles around 4 am local time (0200 GMT). Falling debris injured four people in Darnyatski district.

"Medics provided them with help at the scene," said Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko on social media.

"Also, a missile fragment was found on the territory of a warehouse in Darnytskyi district. There was no fire or damage to the building."&nbsp;

Ukrainian air force said that the drones that were shot down were launched by Russia from Crimean peninsula.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-two-injured-after-russian-strike-on-kyiv-biden-to-host-zelensky-at-white-house-amid-deadlock-on-aid-668361">At least 4 injured after Russian strike on Kyiv; Biden to host Zelensky at White House amid deadlock on aid</a>

Russia targeted Ukraine's energy infrastructure in winter last year as well. The missile strike left millions of Ukrainians without electricity for long period.

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Ukraine has since strengthened its air defence system using military help from the West. However, it says it needs more to protect more regions.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia's Federal Security Bureau (FSB) said on Monday (Dec 11) that it had detected and cracked a network of Ukrainian agents in Russia-occupied Crimea who were attempting to assassinate pro-Russian figures.

Russia's Federal Security Bureau (FSB) said on Monday (Dec 11) that it had detected and cracked a network of Ukrainian agents in Russia-occupied Crimea who were attempting to assassinate pro-Russian figures. The intelligence service, which is the main successor to the Soviet era spy agency KGB, said that targets of the Ukrainian network included Sergei Aksyonov, the Russia-appointed head of Crimea and also Oleg Tsaryov, a former pro-Russian member of Ukrainian parliament. In October this year, Tsaryiv was shot twice but survived. The attack took place in Crimea that was occupied by Russia from Ukraine in 2014. Reuters has reported citing a source in Ukraine's SBU intelligence agency that this was an SBU operation. Watch | Ukraine's Zelensky to meet President Biden as war funding against Russia is decreasing × The FSB said on Monday that the Ukrainian network it cracked, had in the past, also targeted railway and energy infrastructure in Crimea. The FSB said that it has found arms and explosives and had also detained 18 "agents and accomplices of the Ukrainian special services". Shot down eight missiles fired towards Kyiv, says Ukraine Meanwhile on Monday, Ukraine said that it had shot down eight Russian missiles that were fired towards the Ukrainian capital Kyiv. Ukraine's air force said that in addition to these missiles 18 attack drones were shot down across Ukraine. Ukraine says as winter sets in, Russia had again begun to hit Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Kyiv officials said that the country's air defences shot down the Russian missiles around 4 am local time (0200 GMT). Falling debris injured four people in Darnyatski district. "Medics provided them with help at the scene," said Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko on social media. "Also, a missile fragment was found on the territory of a warehouse in Darnytskyi district. There was no fire or damage to the building." Ukrainian air force said that the drones that were shot down were launched by Russia from Crimean peninsula. Also Read | At least 4 injured after Russian strike on Kyiv; Biden to host Zelensky at White House amid deadlock on aid Russia targeted Ukraine's energy infrastructure in winter last year as well. The missile strike left millions of Ukrainians without electricity for long period. Also Read | The Capitals: Putin's Moscow is West Asia's 'dear friend' Ukraine has since strengthened its air defence system using military help from the West. However, it says it needs more to protect more regions. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian intelligence says cracked network of Ukrainian agents in Crimea

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was travelling to Argentina on Saturday to attend the inauguration of new Argentine President Javier Milei, his first trip to Latin America.

Ukraine’s President heads to Argentina, hoping to win Global South’s support

Russia's monthly income from oil exports is booming. It's now greater than it was before the ukraine war. A Bloomberg report report indicates that the price cap on Russian oil has effectively failed. Russia's net income from oil stood at $11.3 billion in october. this was the highest monthly income from oil exports since the war last year.

Russia's monthly income from oil exports is booming: Reports

It is over 650 days since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine and this is Ukraine's second wartime winter. A bitter and bloody war in Ukraine has devastated the country. For Russia, it has triggered an economic insecurity in the nation with an avalanche of sanctions from the West.

Russia-Ukraine war | Ukraine under attack: Images from frontlines

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday announced that he will seek re-election in 2024 for his third consecutive term, and sixth overall, media reports said.

Putin to seek re-election in 2024 Presidential polls

The UK and US Governments have jointly accused russian intelligence of orchestrating a wide-ranging hacking campaign. Kremlin faces accusations of targeting British MPs, civil servants, and journalists to meddle in the UK's next general elections.

UK accuses Russia of cyber interference

A second wartime winter has arrived in Ukraine and the country is working to make sure this one is not as difficult as last year’s, when Russian shelling caused severe damage to the power grid and heat delivery systems. Funding to counter China in the Pacific is now caught in the Congressional battle in Washington over foreign aid and border security. The White House calls the package a “critical component” of its National Security strategy.

Funding to counter China in the Pacific caught in Congressional battle

Despite the widespread sanctions imposed against Russia by the West, Russia's oil sector is booming. Its monthly income from oil exports is now greater than it was before the Ukraine war.

Russian oil defies sanctions

Macron will host Orban at the Elysee Palace for a working dinner from 1930 GMT to discuss "several subjects" on the agenda for the EU summit next week, including "various aspects of European support for Ukraine".

French President Emmanuel Macron hosts Hungary's Orban in bid to unlock EU support for Ukraine

A former pro-Russian member of the Ukrainian parliament was shot dead near Moscow, the responsibility for the alleged assassination, according to media reports, has been claimed by Kyiv. Notably, Kyiv, since the beginning of Moscow’s invasion, is reportedly said to be behind several assassinations and attacks on pro-war Russian and former Ukrainian officials who have backed Russia’s “special military operation”.

<h2>What happened to the former Ukrainian lawmaker?</h2>

The former Ukrainian lawmaker identified as Illia Kyva was shot dead in a park in the Odintsovo region southwest of Moscow. News agencies, AFP and Reuters citing sources have said that the attack was orchestrated by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) after he defected to Moscow when Russia invaded last year.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Russian investigators said they have opened an investigation into the incident and will hunt for the suspect. “An unknown person fired shots at the victim from an unidentified weapon."

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“The man died on the spot from his injuries,” said Russia’s Investigative Committee, in a statement. A report by Russian news agency TASS citing a police officer said that the investigation is being treated as a “Ukrainian plot” and a search for the killer is underway.&nbsp;

Ukraine’s military intelligence spokesperson Andriy Yusov also seemingly hinted that Kyva was assassinated. “We can confirm that Kyva is done. Such a fate will befall other traitors of Ukraine, as well as the henchmen of the (Russian President Vladimir) Putin regime,"&nbsp;Yusov said.

He also went on to call Kyva “one of the biggest scumbags, traitors and collaborators” and said his death was “justice,” as quoted by CBS News.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Soaked in Nazism’</h2>

Kyva, who was a member of the Ukrainian parliament before the Russian invasion, has been in Moscow throughout the war and often criticised officials in Kyiv online. The former lawmaker has been sentenced in absentia by a Ukrainian court to 14 years in prison for charges, including treason and incitement to violence.

As per AFP, before Russia began its “special military operation” in Ukraine, Kyva said the country has been “soaked by Nazism” and needed “liberating” by Moscow – echoing talking points which have regularly been used by Russian media, officials, even the country’s president in his speech since before launching the attack on Kyiv.&nbsp;

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Kyva had reportedly also written to Putin requesting Russian citizenship and fled to Moscow before the beginning of the war in February 2022. The next month, Kyva was officially expelled from the Ukrainian parliament and charged with high treason for colluding with Russia.&nbsp;

<h2>Another assassination by Kyiv?</h2>

In a separate incident, which also took place on Wednesday (Dec 6), a proxy lawmaker in Ukraine’s eastern Lugansk region was killed in a car bombing attack, according to Russian investigators.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-leaders-agree-to-impose-ban-on-russian-diamonds-in-show-of-solidarity-with-ukraine-667001">G7 leaders agree to impose ban on Russian diamonds in show of solidarity with Ukraine</a>

The lawmaker identified as Oleg Popov, who served as a deputy in the pro-Moscow Lugansk regional parliament, was killed after the “detonation of an unidentified device in a car”, said Russia’s Investigative Committee without giving any further details about the incident.&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

A former pro-Russian member of the Ukrainian parliament was shot dead near Moscow, the responsibility for the alleged assassination, according to media reports, has been claimed by Kyiv.

A former pro-Russian member of the Ukrainian parliament was shot dead near Moscow, the responsibility for the alleged assassination, according to media reports, has been claimed by Kyiv. Notably, Kyiv, since the beginning of Moscow’s invasion, is reportedly said to be behind several assassinations and attacks on pro-war Russian and former Ukrainian officials who have backed Russia’s “special military operation”. What happened to the former Ukrainian lawmaker? The former Ukrainian lawmaker identified as Illia Kyva was shot dead in a park in the Odintsovo region southwest of Moscow. News agencies, AFP and Reuters citing sources have said that the attack was orchestrated by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) after he defected to Moscow when Russia invaded last year. Meanwhile, Russian investigators said they have opened an investigation into the incident and will hunt for the suspect. “An unknown person fired shots at the victim from an unidentified weapon." ALSO READ | Zaporizhzhia plant's power cut carried risk of nuclear 'accident': Ukraine “The man died on the spot from his injuries,” said Russia’s Investigative Committee, in a statement. A report by Russian news agency TASS citing a police officer said that the investigation is being treated as a “Ukrainian plot” and a search for the killer is underway. Ukraine’s military intelligence spokesperson Andriy Yusov also seemingly hinted that Kyva was assassinated. “We can confirm that Kyva is done. Such a fate will befall other traitors of Ukraine, as well as the henchmen of the (Russian President Vladimir) Putin regime," Yusov said. He also went on to call Kyva “one of the biggest scumbags, traitors and collaborators” and said his death was “justice,” as quoted by CBS News. ‘Soaked in Nazism’ Kyva, who was a member of the Ukrainian parliament before the Russian invasion, has been in Moscow throughout the war and often criticised officials in Kyiv online. The former lawmaker has been sentenced in absentia by a Ukrainian court to 14 years in prison for charges, including treason and incitement to violence. As per AFP, before Russia began its “special military operation” in Ukraine, Kyva said the country has been “soaked by Nazism” and needed “liberating” by Moscow – echoing talking points which have regularly been used by Russian media, officials, even the country’s president in his speech since before launching the attack on Kyiv. ALSO READ | Russia blames Ukraine, West for pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin’s car bombing Kyva had reportedly also written to Putin requesting Russian citizenship and fled to Moscow before the beginning of the war in February 2022. The next month, Kyva was officially expelled from the Ukrainian parliament and charged with high treason for colluding with Russia. Another assassination by Kyiv? In a separate incident, which also took place on Wednesday (Dec 6), a proxy lawmaker in Ukraine’s eastern Lugansk region was killed in a car bombing attack, according to Russian investigators. ALSO READ | G7 leaders agree to impose ban on Russian diamonds in show of solidarity with Ukraine The lawmaker identified as Oleg Popov, who served as a deputy in the pro-Moscow Lugansk regional parliament, was killed after the “detonation of an unidentified device in a car”, said Russia’s Investigative Committee without giving any further details about the incident. (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

Kyiv assassinates pro-Russian former Ukrainian politician near Moscow: Reports

Russian President Vladimir Putin departed from Riyadh earlier in the day his visit has sparked considerable interest in speculative questions about Russia's relationship with West Asia.

Russia seeks to advance military cooperation with China

Senate Republicans on Wednesday (Dec 6) blocked the White House's request for $106 billion in emergency aid for Ukraine as well as Israel as the conservatives showed resistance to the debarment of immigration reforms they had demanded as part of the package.

The vote was 49 in favour to 51 against, which left the $110.5 billion measure short of the 60 votes needed in the 100-member Senate to pave the way to start debate, endangering President Joe Biden's push to provide new aid before the end of this year.

The package would provide approximately $60 billion in security assistance for Ukraine, along with funds for humanitarian and economic aid for the government in Kyiv.

It would also include $14 billion for Israel as it battles Hamas in Gaza.

A Democrat, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, also voted for a "no" stating that he could introduce the measure again in the future.&nbsp;

Schumer, post the voting, also underlined the risk if Ukraine fails to succeed, saying that it was a "serious moment that will have lasting consequences for the 21st century," risking the decline of Western democracy.

Republicans stated that it was extremely important to make their case for tighter immigration policies and control of the southern border.

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"Today’s vote is what it takes for the Democratic leader to recognise that Senate Republicans mean what we say," Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell said in a floor speech earlier on Wednesday. "Then let’s vote. And then let's finally start meeting America's national security priorities, including right here at home."

<h2>'We can't&nbsp;let Putin win,' says Biden</h2>

Earlier in the day, United States President Joe Biden pleaded with the Republicans for more funds in military aid for Ukraine stating that if Russia succeeds in its invasion of Ukraine, Moscow would attain the position of attacking NATO allies and there is a possibility that it could draw US troops into a war.

"If Putin takes Ukraine, he won’t stop there," Biden said. Putin will attack a NATO ally, he predicted, and then "we’ll have something that we don't seek and that we don't have today: American troops fighting Russian troops," Biden said.

“We can’t let Putin win,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Senate Republicans on Wednesday (Dec 6) blocked the White House's request for $106 billion in emergency aid for Ukraine as well as Israel as the conservatives showed resistance to the debarment of immigration reforms they had demanded as part of the package.

Senate Republicans on Wednesday (Dec 6) blocked the White House's request for $106 billion in emergency aid for Ukraine as well as Israel as the conservatives showed resistance to the debarment of immigration reforms they had demanded as part of the package. The vote was 49 in favour to 51 against, which left the $110.5 billion measure short of the 60 votes needed in the 100-member Senate to pave the way to start debate, endangering President Joe Biden's push to provide new aid before the end of this year. The package would provide approximately $60 billion in security assistance for Ukraine, along with funds for humanitarian and economic aid for the government in Kyiv. It would also include $14 billion for Israel as it battles Hamas in Gaza. A Democrat, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, also voted for a "no" stating that he could introduce the measure again in the future. Schumer, post the voting, also underlined the risk if Ukraine fails to succeed, saying that it was a "serious moment that will have lasting consequences for the 21st century," risking the decline of Western democracy. Republicans stated that it was extremely important to make their case for tighter immigration policies and control of the southern border. Also read: Las Vegas police say suspect along with 3 others dead in university shooting "Today’s vote is what it takes for the Democratic leader to recognise that Senate Republicans mean what we say," Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell said in a floor speech earlier on Wednesday. "Then let’s vote. And then let's finally start meeting America's national security priorities, including right here at home." 'We can't let Putin win,' says Biden Earlier in the day, United States President Joe Biden pleaded with the Republicans for more funds in military aid for Ukraine stating that if Russia succeeds in its invasion of Ukraine, Moscow would attain the position of attacking NATO allies and there is a possibility that it could draw US troops into a war. "If Putin takes Ukraine, he won’t stop there," Biden said. Putin will attack a NATO ally, he predicted, and then "we’ll have something that we don't seek and that we don't have today: American troops fighting Russian troops," Biden said. “We can’t let Putin win,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

US Senate Republicans block Ukraine, Israel aid bill over immigration row

United States President Joe Biden and leaders of the G7 countries on Wednesday (Dec 6) virtually met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and agreed to restrict imports of Russian diamonds from 2024 in a show of support.

"We will introduce import restrictions on non-industrial diamonds, mined, processed, or produced in Russia, by January 1, 2024," the leaders said after a virtual meeting with Zelensky.

This will be "followed by further phased restrictions on the import of Russian diamonds processed in third countries targeting March 1, 2024," they said.

By the beginning of September, a "robust traceability-based verification and certification mechanism for rough diamonds within the G7" will be established, it added.

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The new restrictions being imposed in a bid to tighten sanctions against Russia's invasion of Ukraine come as an addition to a series of other sanctions enforced by the United States on Moscow.

<h2>Zelensky calls for continued support for Ukraine</h2>

During the virtual meeting, Zelensky warned against the collapse of Western unity stating that Putin was expecting that to take place next year.

"Russia believes that America and Europe will show weakness and will not maintain support for Ukraine at the proper level. Putin believes that the free world will not fully enforce its own sanctions," he said, according to remarks posted to the president's website.

"The free world vitally needs to maintain its consolidation, maintain interaction, maintain support for those whose freedom is being attacked."

Earlier, the White House also warned that the US would run out of money for more Ukraine aid by the end of the year if Congress refuses to approve funds.

The G7 leaders addressed the issue of support for Kyiv in their statement, vowing that they would continue to back Ukraine.

"Our steadfast commitment to supporting Ukraine's fight for its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity will never waver," they said.

On the Israel-Hamas conflict, the leaders said that "more effective action" was required to limit the displacement of&nbsp;civilians, and also echoed support for more pauses in the fighting allowing more aid.

"More urgent action is needed to address the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Gaza and minimize civilian casualties," they said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

United States President Joe Biden and leaders of the G7 countries on Wednesday (Dec 6) virtually met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and agreed to restrict imports of Russian diamonds from 2024 in a show of support.

United States President Joe Biden and leaders of the G7 countries on Wednesday (Dec 6) virtually met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and agreed to restrict imports of Russian diamonds from 2024 in a show of support. "We will introduce import restrictions on non-industrial diamonds, mined, processed, or produced in Russia, by January 1, 2024," the leaders said after a virtual meeting with Zelensky. This will be "followed by further phased restrictions on the import of Russian diamonds processed in third countries targeting March 1, 2024," they said. By the beginning of September, a "robust traceability-based verification and certification mechanism for rough diamonds within the G7" will be established, it added. Also read: UK immigration minister Robert Jenrick resigns over Rwanda bill The new restrictions being imposed in a bid to tighten sanctions against Russia's invasion of Ukraine come as an addition to a series of other sanctions enforced by the United States on Moscow. Zelensky calls for continued support for Ukraine During the virtual meeting, Zelensky warned against the collapse of Western unity stating that Putin was expecting that to take place next year. "Russia believes that America and Europe will show weakness and will not maintain support for Ukraine at the proper level. Putin believes that the free world will not fully enforce its own sanctions," he said, according to remarks posted to the president's website. "The free world vitally needs to maintain its consolidation, maintain interaction, maintain support for those whose freedom is being attacked." Earlier, the White House also warned that the US would run out of money for more Ukraine aid by the end of the year if Congress refuses to approve funds. The G7 leaders addressed the issue of support for Kyiv in their statement, vowing that they would continue to back Ukraine. "Our steadfast commitment to supporting Ukraine's fight for its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity will never waver," they said. On the Israel-Hamas conflict, the leaders said that "more effective action" was required to limit the displacement of civilians, and also echoed support for more pauses in the fighting allowing more aid. "More urgent action is needed to address the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Gaza and minimize civilian casualties," they said. (With inputs from agencies)

G7 leaders agree to impose ban on Russian diamonds in show of solidarity with Ukraine

Growing number of Russian women are demanding the return of their husbands from Ukraine's front line. Thousands of men were mobilized under a decree by Putin in Sep last year.

Russia struggle for fatherhood & marriages | Women demand return of their men

Russian women demand return of their men as Russia boosts up armed forces

Ukraine continues to hold its ground against the year-long Russian invasion but funding continues to be a concern for Kyiv. Russia claims it repelled Ukrainian attacks in multiple directions in the past week Russia inflicted 31 group strikes with precision weapons and drones on the Ukrainian military infrastructure.

Russia-Ukraine War: US raises alarm over Ukraine funding

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