As their men fight on the front line against Russia many Ukrainian women are keeping the coal mines running. Amid acute wartime staff shortages and constant shelling by Putin's men Ukrainian women who were once not allowed to work in mines are now taking up the offer.

Russia-Ukraine war: As men fight, women keep Ukraine's coal mines going

Ukrainian authorities have uncovered what appears to be the country's first instance of a cryptocurrency-based bribe. Investigators suspect a lawmaker of trying to bribe the head of a government reconstruction agency.

Ukraine suspects lawmaker of first-ever cryptocurrency bribe

<p>A Ukrainian sniper is reported to have shattered the world record by killing a Russian soldier from an astounding distance of nearly 3.8 kilometres, approximately 260 metres&nbsp;beyond the previous record.</p>

<p>The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) hailed the achievement as a testament to their snipers' unprecedented skills, showcasing their effectiveness at extraordinary ranges.</p>

<h2><strong>The 'lord of the horizon' rifle</strong></h2>

<p>A widely circulating video on social media captured the moment when the Ukrainian soldier achieved the record-breaking feat.</p>

<p>The shot, executed with a domestically made rifle known as 'the lord of the Horizon,' showed&nbsp;the lethal precision of Ukrainian snipers.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-initiates-military-overhaul-dismisses-medical-forces-commander-in-ukraine-660678">Also read |&nbsp;Zelensky initiates military overhaul, dismisses medical forces commander in Ukraine</a></p>

<p>The footage shows&nbsp;a Russian soldier collapsing to the ground following the long-distance sniper fire.</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A Ukrainian sharpshooter shattering the longest kill record.<br />
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A new record claim for a successful sniper shot was set when a Ukrainian sniper and special operations serviceman from the Security Service of Ukraine, or SBU, hit a Russian soldier at 3,800 meters (2,36 miles).<br />
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Prior… <a href="https://t.co/HtMGNkHSUU">pic.twitter.com/HtMGNkHSUU</a></p>
— War&amp;Peace (@realpeacenotwar) <a href="https://twitter.com/realpeacenotwar/status/1726100242863718446?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Previous records</strong></h2>

<p>Surpassing the previous record held by a Canadian special forces sniper, who shot at a distance of 3.54 kilometres&nbsp;in Iraq in 2017, the Ukrainian marksman has solidified his place in history.</p>

<p>Notably, British sniper Craig Harrison, renowned for killing a&nbsp;Taliban fighter from a distance of 2.48 kilometres&nbsp;in Afghanistan in 2009, held the record for a long time.</p>

<p>As tensions escalated, Ukrainian soldiers successfully intercepted a barrage of strategic drones launched by Russia against the country.</p>

<p>Kyiv's air defence system reportedly thwarted 15 out of 20 drones, providing a crucial defence against Moscow's aerial threats.</p>

<p>The weekend also witnessed Moscow intensifying its offensive, launching five missiles and 76 airstrikes, with over 150 Ukrainian settlements in the north, east, and south facing artillery fire.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Llyod Austin makes surprise visit to Kyiv</strong></p>

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<p>Amid conflicting reports, the Russian Defense Ministry asserted that its southern forces repelled six Ukrainian attacks in key areas.</p>

<p>Ukrainian military sources, on the other hand, reported ongoing artillery fire on more than 150 settlements and detailed Moscow's aggressive missile launches and airstrikes. The situation remains fluid as both sides engage in a tense military standoff.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A Ukrainian sniper is reported to have shattered the world record by killing a Russian soldier from an astounding distance of nearly 3.8 kilometres, approximately 260 metres beyond the previous record.

A Ukrainian sniper is reported to have shattered the world record by killing a Russian soldier from an astounding distance of nearly 3.8 kilometres, approximately 260 metres beyond the previous record. The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) hailed the achievement as a testament to their snipers' unprecedented skills, showcasing their effectiveness at extraordinary ranges. The 'lord of the horizon' rifle A widely circulating video on social media captured the moment when the Ukrainian soldier achieved the record-breaking feat. The shot, executed with a domestically made rifle known as 'the lord of the Horizon,' showed the lethal precision of Ukrainian snipers. Also read | Zelensky initiates military overhaul, dismisses medical forces commander in Ukraine The footage shows a Russian soldier collapsing to the ground following the long-distance sniper fire. Watch the video here: A Ukrainian sharpshooter shattering the longest kill record. A new record claim for a successful sniper shot was set when a Ukrainian sniper and special operations serviceman from the Security Service of Ukraine, or SBU, hit a Russian soldier at 3,800 meters (2,36 miles). Prior… pic.twitter.com/HtMGNkHSUU — War&Peace (@realpeacenotwar) November 19, 2023 × Previous records Surpassing the previous record held by a Canadian special forces sniper, who shot at a distance of 3.54 kilometres in Iraq in 2017, the Ukrainian marksman has solidified his place in history. Notably, British sniper Craig Harrison, renowned for killing a Taliban fighter from a distance of 2.48 kilometres in Afghanistan in 2009, held the record for a long time. As tensions escalated, Ukrainian soldiers successfully intercepted a barrage of strategic drones launched by Russia against the country. Kyiv's air defence system reportedly thwarted 15 out of 20 drones, providing a crucial defence against Moscow's aerial threats. The weekend also witnessed Moscow intensifying its offensive, launching five missiles and 76 airstrikes, with over 150 Ukrainian settlements in the north, east, and south facing artillery fire. Also watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Llyod Austin makes surprise visit to Kyiv Amid conflicting reports, the Russian Defense Ministry asserted that its southern forces repelled six Ukrainian attacks in key areas. Ukrainian military sources, on the other hand, reported ongoing artillery fire on more than 150 settlements and detailed Moscow's aggressive missile launches and airstrikes. The situation remains fluid as both sides engage in a tense military standoff. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Ukrainian sniper kills Russian enemy from a record distance of 3.8 km

US' Lloyd Austin meets Zelensky in Ukraine to reaffirm support amid Israel crisis.

Russia-Ukraine war: Llyod Austin makes surprise visit to Kyiv | World News | WION

<p>A senior Russian diplomat said on Tuesday (Nov 21) that co-existing with Ukraine under its current 'regime' is not possible and that Russia can withstand power of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) for as long as it needs till Moscow's goal of demilitarising Ukraine was achieved. Currently Russia controls 17.5 per cent of Ukrainian territory in reference to internationally recognised Ukrainian borders. This includes Crimea which was annexed by Russia in 2014.</p>

<p>Rodion Miroshnik, Russia's Ambassador-at-large was speaking with reporters in Russian capital Moscow when he said this.</p>

<p>"The current regime (in Kyiv) is absolutely toxic, we do not see any options for co-existence with it at the moment," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia's Putin to take part in virtual BRICS summit on Gaza</strong></p>

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<p>The post held by Miroshenik was created by Russia to collect evidence about alleged crimes committed by Ukrainian forces on civilians. As he spoke with reporters, Miroshevik repeated Russian claims that Ukraine had violated human rights of the civilians and had committed crimes against&nbsp;them. He also alleged that NATO has supplied forbidden weapons to Ukraine.</p>

<p>Ukraine on its part has been accusing Russia of war crimes along with several Western nations. Russia denies the charges.</p>

<p>Miroshenik also said that Russia could resist NATO for as long as it takes for the Russian goal of demilitarising Ukraine is achieved. He added that the West will eventually lose interest in the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-adds-the-moscow-times-to-its-list-of-foreign-agents-660181">Russia adds The Moscow Times to its list of 'foreign agents'</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia calls its Ukraine invasion a 'Special Military Operation' (SMO). It invaded Ukraine in February 2022. After sustained gains in initial months, Russian forces had to retreat from large swathes of land. Meanwhile, the Western countries, led by the United States, poured in billions of dollars in Ukraine in humanitarian and military aid. It has also provided a large number and variety of weapons.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ukrainian-sharpshooter-breaks-world-record-by-killing-russian-soldier-from-38-km-away-661002">Ukrainian sniper kills Russian enemy from a record distance of 3.8 km</a></strong></p>

<p>However, expectations that Ukrainian forces would be able to decisively push-back the Russians after the help have proven to be far from reality. Ukraine has not been able to push the Russians back and Russian troops are putting up a stiff resistance.</p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has chosen to project Ukraine war as part of a larger effort of fight against the West. Kremlin claims that there is a ploy to cleave Russia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A senior Russian diplomat said on Tuesday (Nov 21) that co-existing with Ukraine under its current 'regime' is not possible and that Russia can withstand power of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) for as long as it needs till Moscow's goal of demilitarising Ukraine was achieved.

A senior Russian diplomat said on Tuesday (Nov 21) that co-existing with Ukraine under its current 'regime' is not possible and that Russia can withstand power of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) for as long as it needs till Moscow's goal of demilitarising Ukraine was achieved. Currently Russia controls 17.5 per cent of Ukrainian territory in reference to internationally recognised Ukrainian borders. This includes Crimea which was annexed by Russia in 2014. Rodion Miroshnik, Russia's Ambassador-at-large was speaking with reporters in Russian capital Moscow when he said this. "The current regime (in Kyiv) is absolutely toxic, we do not see any options for co-existence with it at the moment," he said. Watch | Russia's Putin to take part in virtual BRICS summit on Gaza × The post held by Miroshenik was created by Russia to collect evidence about alleged crimes committed by Ukrainian forces on civilians. As he spoke with reporters, Miroshevik repeated Russian claims that Ukraine had violated human rights of the civilians and had committed crimes against them. He also alleged that NATO has supplied forbidden weapons to Ukraine. Ukraine on its part has been accusing Russia of war crimes along with several Western nations. Russia denies the charges. Miroshenik also said that Russia could resist NATO for as long as it takes for the Russian goal of demilitarising Ukraine is achieved. He added that the West will eventually lose interest in the war. Also Read | Russia adds The Moscow Times to its list of 'foreign agents' Russia calls its Ukraine invasion a 'Special Military Operation' (SMO). It invaded Ukraine in February 2022. After sustained gains in initial months, Russian forces had to retreat from large swathes of land. Meanwhile, the Western countries, led by the United States, poured in billions of dollars in Ukraine in humanitarian and military aid. It has also provided a large number and variety of weapons. Watch | Ukrainian sniper kills Russian enemy from a record distance of 3.8 km However, expectations that Ukrainian forces would be able to decisively push-back the Russians after the help have proven to be far from reality. Ukraine has not been able to push the Russians back and Russian troops are putting up a stiff resistance. Russian President Vladimir Putin has chosen to project Ukraine war as part of a larger effort of fight against the West. Kremlin claims that there is a ploy to cleave Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian diplomat rules out co-existence with 'current regime' in Ukraine

<p>Italy qualified for Euro 2024 after drawing 0-0 against Ukraine in their final Group C qualifier on Monday although the Ukrainians can still secure a spot through the playoffs. European champions Italy finished second, level on 14 points with third-placed Ukraine but with a better head-to-head record after a tense affair that could have gone either way.</p>

<p>The Italians ended six points behind England, who had sealed qualification after beating Italy 3-1 at Wembley in October. Ukraine, who have never beaten Italy, had strong claims for a penalty after Bryan Cristante's clumsy challenge on Mykhailo Mudryk in stoppage time but nothing was given.</p>

<p>They can still book a spot at a fourth consecutive European Championship via the playoffs in March. The playoff draw will take place on Thursday in Nyon. "Ukraine showed that they are an equipped team and they gave us a hard time," Italy coach Luciano Spalletti told Rai Sport. "Today we played a good match because in the first half we had many opportunities to secure the result. Then when we didn't manage to do so the match became dirtier and more physical. "They brought in more physical players but at that moment they no longer played football."</p>

<p><strong>LIVELY START</strong></p>

<p>The match got off to a lively start but both goalkeepers - Italy's Gianluigi Donnarumma and Ukraine's Anatoliy Trubin - held firm in an entertaining clash at BayArena in Leverkusen. Italy, who will make their eighth consecutive appearance at the Euros, had most possession and created more chances but Ukraine remained composed as they looked to counter-attack.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/lionel-messi-2022-world-cup-jerseys-predicted-to-top-10-million-at-auction-660891">Lionel Messi 2022 World Cup jerseys predicted to top $10 million at auction</a></strong></p>

<p>Italy's Federico Chiesa had a chance to break the deadlock in the seventh minute but his effort from inside the box flew narrowly over the bar before Donnarumma denied Ukraine an opener seven minutes later by keeping out Georgiy Sudakov's low shot.</p>

<p>Defender Giovanni Di Lorenzo then nearly nodded home for Italy from a corner just before the half-hour mark before Trubin pulled off a stunning save to deny Davide Frattesi.</p>

<p>Italy continued to dominate after the break but Ukraine's probing increased and Mudryk came close in the 66th minute only to be denied by Donnarumma who pulled off another fine save. "We are very happy," Donnarumma said. "We are where we deserve to be with all the difficulties we had, but thanks to the new coach and staff we are back."</p>

<p>Under Spalletti, who took over from Roberto Mancini in August, Italy have won three times, drawn twice and lost once. They failed to qualify for last year's World Cup in Qatar. The European Championship will be held in Germany.</p>


Italy qualified for Euro 2024 after drawing 0-0 against Ukraine in their final Group C qualifier on Monday although the Ukrainians can still secure a spot through the playoffs.

Italy qualified for Euro 2024 after drawing 0-0 against Ukraine in their final Group C qualifier on Monday although the Ukrainians can still secure a spot through the playoffs. European champions Italy finished second, level on 14 points with third-placed Ukraine but with a better head-to-head record after a tense affair that could have gone either way. The Italians ended six points behind England, who had sealed qualification after beating Italy 3-1 at Wembley in October. Ukraine, who have never beaten Italy, had strong claims for a penalty after Bryan Cristante's clumsy challenge on Mykhailo Mudryk in stoppage time but nothing was given. They can still book a spot at a fourth consecutive European Championship via the playoffs in March. The playoff draw will take place on Thursday in Nyon. "Ukraine showed that they are an equipped team and they gave us a hard time," Italy coach Luciano Spalletti told Rai Sport. "Today we played a good match because in the first half we had many opportunities to secure the result. Then when we didn't manage to do so the match became dirtier and more physical. "They brought in more physical players but at that moment they no longer played football." LIVELY START The match got off to a lively start but both goalkeepers - Italy's Gianluigi Donnarumma and Ukraine's Anatoliy Trubin - held firm in an entertaining clash at BayArena in Leverkusen. Italy, who will make their eighth consecutive appearance at the Euros, had most possession and created more chances but Ukraine remained composed as they looked to counter-attack. Also read: Lionel Messi 2022 World Cup jerseys predicted to top $10 million at auction Italy's Federico Chiesa had a chance to break the deadlock in the seventh minute but his effort from inside the box flew narrowly over the bar before Donnarumma denied Ukraine an opener seven minutes later by keeping out Georgiy Sudakov's low shot. Defender Giovanni Di Lorenzo then nearly nodded home for Italy from a corner just before the half-hour mark before Trubin pulled off a stunning save to deny Davide Frattesi. Italy continued to dominate after the break but Ukraine's probing increased and Mudryk came close in the 66th minute only to be denied by Donnarumma who pulled off another fine save. "We are very happy," Donnarumma said. "We are where we deserve to be with all the difficulties we had, but thanks to the new coach and staff we are back." Under Spalletti, who took over from Roberto Mancini in August, Italy have won three times, drawn twice and lost once. They failed to qualify for last year's World Cup in Qatar. The European Championship will be held in Germany.

Italy qualify for Euro 2024 after tense 0-0 draw with Ukraine

The Russia-Ukraine war is seeing slower days as the war in Gaza overshadows it the aid to Ukraine's Army has declined drastically as its allies including America left it in the hanging to focus on its new face of War which is Gaza. Hundreds of Ukrainians took to the streets of Kyiv to ask for more support and more money for the Army.

Russia-Ukraine war | Kyiv Protesters: Want our govt to spend more money on army

<p>At least two first responders were killed and seven others were injured in Russian strikes on the southeastern Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia, said Kyiv, on Saturday (Nov 18).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia launched a series of drone attacks on the Ukrainian capital city of Kyiv early on Sunday (Nov 19) for the second night in a row as it ramps up attacks after several weeks of pause, said the city’s administration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced a fresh round of sanctions against Russian officials and groups, which he said are aimed at fighting wartime abductions of Ukrainian children and other “Russian terror”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russian strike in Zaporizhzhia</strong></h2>

<p>According to the Ukrainian police, Russia fired a series of rockets at the village of Komyshuvakha close to the Ukrainian frontline region of Zaporizhzhia, which Moscow annexed last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking about the incident, they said, “As a result of the first two strikes, four local residents were injured and a fire broke out in a residential building.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jailed-russian-ultranationalist-self-nominates-for-president-can-he-outperform-putin-660274">Jailed Russian ultranationalist self-nominates for president. Can he outperform Putin?</a></strong></p>

<p>“When the police and rescuers arrived at the scene, Russians conducted another strike. Two emergency service workers were killed and three more were injured,” it added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Increase in number of drone attacks</strong></h2>

<p>The attack in Zaporizhzhia also came as the Ukrainian air force said Russia fired 38 drones at its territory overnight which is said to be the highest reported number in more than six weeks.</p>

<p>Ukraine’s air force said Saturday it shot down 29 of the 38 Iranian-made Shahed drones fired by Russia which were said to be packed with explosives and would detonate upon reaching their targets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine’s emergency services said that one of the drones hit an energy facility in the southern Odesa region, resulting in a fire that was quickly extinguished. The attack has left around 2,000 homes without power.</p>

<p>Drone attacks by Russia continued for a second night on Kyiv where Russian “UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) were launched in many groups and attacked Kyiv in waves, from different directions, at the same time constantly changing the vectors of movement along the route,” said Serhiy Popko, head of the Kyiv’s military administration, on Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“That is why the air raid alerts were announced several times in the capital,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian official citing preliminary information said that the war-torn country’s air defence systems hit close to 10 Shahed drones in and around Kyiv. There have been no initial reports of “critical damage” or casualties, said Popko.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-humanitarian-team-describes-gazas-al-shifa-hospital-as-death-zone-urges-evacuation-660275">WHO humanitarian team describes Gaza’s Al Shifa Hospital as ‘death zone’, urges evacuation</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Russian defence ministry said its forces had shot down 20 Ukrainian drones over Russian-controlled parts of Ukraine, and seven naval drones in the Black Sea, off Crimea, which Moscow annexed in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky announces fresh round of sanctions</strong></h2>

<p>The Ukrainian president has sanctioned 37 Russian groups and 108 people including former Prime Minister Mykola Azarov and former minister of education and science, Dmytro Tabachnyk, who was stripped off Ukrainian citizenship in February.</p>

<p>“We are increasing the pressure of our state onto them and each of them must be held responsible for what they have done,” said Zelensky, in his nightly address after his office issued corresponding decrees with his signature.</p>

<p>The decrees showed a range of 10-year penalties against Russian individuals and five-year penalties against non-profit groups, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The list included “those involved in the abduction and deportation of Ukrainian children from the occupied territory” and individuals who “in various ways help Russian terror against Ukraine,” said Zelensky, during his nightly address.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-returns-four-ukrainian-children-in-qatari-repatriation-deal-647792">Russia returns four Ukrainian children in Qatar-mediated repatriation deal</a></strong></p>

<p>However, he did not associate specific individuals or groups with particular wrongdoings. The recently sanctioned Russian groups included several whose names or websites indicate they work with children.</p>

<p>Kyiv has accused Moscow of taking about 20,000 children to Russia or Russian-held territory without the consent of family or guardians which the United Nations treaty defines as genocide.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)<br />
<br />
<strong>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</strong></em></p>


At least two first responders were killed and seven others were injured in Russian strikes on the southeastern Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia, said Kyiv, on Saturday (Nov 18).

At least two first responders were killed and seven others were injured in Russian strikes on the southeastern Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia, said Kyiv, on Saturday (Nov 18). Russia launched a series of drone attacks on the Ukrainian capital city of Kyiv early on Sunday (Nov 19) for the second night in a row as it ramps up attacks after several weeks of pause, said the city’s administration. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced a fresh round of sanctions against Russian officials and groups, which he said are aimed at fighting wartime abductions of Ukrainian children and other “Russian terror”. Russian strike in Zaporizhzhia According to the Ukrainian police, Russia fired a series of rockets at the village of Komyshuvakha close to the Ukrainian frontline region of Zaporizhzhia, which Moscow annexed last year. Speaking about the incident, they said, “As a result of the first two strikes, four local residents were injured and a fire broke out in a residential building.” ALSO READ | Jailed Russian ultranationalist self-nominates for president. Can he outperform Putin? “When the police and rescuers arrived at the scene, Russians conducted another strike. Two emergency service workers were killed and three more were injured,” it added. Increase in number of drone attacks The attack in Zaporizhzhia also came as the Ukrainian air force said Russia fired 38 drones at its territory overnight which is said to be the highest reported number in more than six weeks. Ukraine’s air force said Saturday it shot down 29 of the 38 Iranian-made Shahed drones fired by Russia which were said to be packed with explosives and would detonate upon reaching their targets. Ukraine’s emergency services said that one of the drones hit an energy facility in the southern Odesa region, resulting in a fire that was quickly extinguished. The attack has left around 2,000 homes without power. Drone attacks by Russia continued for a second night on Kyiv where Russian “UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) were launched in many groups and attacked Kyiv in waves, from different directions, at the same time constantly changing the vectors of movement along the route,” said Serhiy Popko, head of the Kyiv’s military administration, on Telegram. “That is why the air raid alerts were announced several times in the capital,” he added. The Ukrainian official citing preliminary information said that the war-torn country’s air defence systems hit close to 10 Shahed drones in and around Kyiv. There have been no initial reports of “critical damage” or casualties, said Popko. ALSO READ | WHO humanitarian team describes Gaza’s Al Shifa Hospital as ‘death zone’, urges evacuation Meanwhile, the Russian defence ministry said its forces had shot down 20 Ukrainian drones over Russian-controlled parts of Ukraine, and seven naval drones in the Black Sea, off Crimea, which Moscow annexed in 2014. Zelensky announces fresh round of sanctions The Ukrainian president has sanctioned 37 Russian groups and 108 people including former Prime Minister Mykola Azarov and former minister of education and science, Dmytro Tabachnyk, who was stripped off Ukrainian citizenship in February. “We are increasing the pressure of our state onto them and each of them must be held responsible for what they have done,” said Zelensky, in his nightly address after his office issued corresponding decrees with his signature. The decrees showed a range of 10-year penalties against Russian individuals and five-year penalties against non-profit groups, reported Reuters. The list included “those involved in the abduction and deportation of Ukrainian children from the occupied territory” and individuals who “in various ways help Russian terror against Ukraine,” said Zelensky, during his nightly address. ALSO READ | Russia returns four Ukrainian children in Qatar-mediated repatriation deal However, he did not associate specific individuals or groups with particular wrongdoings. The recently sanctioned Russian groups included several whose names or websites indicate they work with children. Kyiv has accused Moscow of taking about 20,000 children to Russia or Russian-held territory without the consent of family or guardians which the United Nations treaty defines as genocide. (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 2 killed as Russia strikes Zaporizhzhia; Zelensky sanctions 108 people, 37 Russian groups

Currently, the Russia-Ukraine war has been going on for over 630 days since the war began in Eastern Europe. The fighting has been concentrated around the Dnipro River. Here's what has been happening on the battlefield.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine claims to secure bridges in Kherson

<p>'Proclivity for pyrotechnics' can assume literal meaning for some people but for Harry Potter fans, it represents a full permission to go 'boom'. On a serious note, there's absolutely nothing funny about wars and the endless suffering they cause but every now and then, a video emerges and&nbsp;grabs the attention of social media for a variety of reasons.</p>

<p>A video posted by an Instagram account is being watched widely and being commented upon.</p>

<p>So it starts like this. The black-and-white visuals, apparently taken from a drone in the sky, show a soldier sitting in a vehicle. The vehicle looks like a tank but not quite.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In any case, you would expect the only person in any vehicle to firmly have it under control. But just a few seconds into the video, he jumps off the vehicle while it continues on its path. There is no initial clue as to why he jumped but to add to some initial amazement, the soldier keeps&nbsp;on running and running away from the vehicle without any apparent reason. He&nbsp;continues his run&nbsp;even after there's sufficient distance between him and the vehicle.</p>

<p>He runs and runs more as if his life depends&nbsp;on it. Takes shelter in what looks like the remains of a destroyed tank, all the while his ditched vehicle moves ahead without any incident.</p>

<p>And then comes an almighty blast, sending shockwaves through the area and&nbsp;justifying the soldier's great haste to keep maximum possible distance from himself and the vehicle.</p>

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<p>The Instagram handle that posted this undated video has said that the vehicle is a Russian MT-LB armoured vehicle that was loaded with two tonnes of explosives. It has been claimed that the vehicle was used to launch a 'Kamikaze' (suicide) attack against Ukrainian trenches in Avdiivka. But before the MT-LB reached the trenches, it moved over a mine and got destroyed in the blast, claims the post.</p>

<p>It is important to remember that though such videos make for what's called an interesting watch for those miles away from the actual battle, these&nbsp;by no means should be consumed as entertainment as soldiers are following orders and risking their lives in brutal conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war.</p>

<p><em><strong>(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments in Russia-Ukraine conflict. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.)</strong></em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


'Proclivity for pyrotechnics' can assume literal meaning for some people but for Harry Potter fans, it represents a full permission to go 'boom'. On a serious note, there's absolutely nothing funny about wars and the endless suffering they cause but every now and then, a video emerges and grabs the attention of social media for a variety of reasons.

'Proclivity for pyrotechnics' can assume literal meaning for some people but for Harry Potter fans, it represents a full permission to go 'boom'. On a serious note, there's absolutely nothing funny about wars and the endless suffering they cause but every now and then, a video emerges and grabs the attention of social media for a variety of reasons. A video posted by an Instagram account is being watched widely and being commented upon. So it starts like this. The black-and-white visuals, apparently taken from a drone in the sky, show a soldier sitting in a vehicle. The vehicle looks like a tank but not quite. In any case, you would expect the only person in any vehicle to firmly have it under control. But just a few seconds into the video, he jumps off the vehicle while it continues on its path. There is no initial clue as to why he jumped but to add to some initial amazement, the soldier keeps on running and running away from the vehicle without any apparent reason. He continues his run even after there's sufficient distance between him and the vehicle. He runs and runs more as if his life depends on it. Takes shelter in what looks like the remains of a destroyed tank, all the while his ditched vehicle moves ahead without any incident. And then comes an almighty blast, sending shockwaves through the area and justifying the soldier's great haste to keep maximum possible distance from himself and the vehicle. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Russian-Ukrainian War (@ukraine_defence) × The Instagram handle that posted this undated video has said that the vehicle is a Russian MT-LB armoured vehicle that was loaded with two tonnes of explosives. It has been claimed that the vehicle was used to launch a 'Kamikaze' (suicide) attack against Ukrainian trenches in Avdiivka. But before the MT-LB reached the trenches, it moved over a mine and got destroyed in the blast, claims the post. It is important to remember that though such videos make for what's called an interesting watch for those miles away from the actual battle, these by no means should be consumed as entertainment as soldiers are following orders and risking their lives in brutal conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war. (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments in Russia-Ukraine conflict. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.)

Proclivity for pyrotechnics? Soldier runs like hell from his vehicle going 'boom'

<p>A storming brigade of the Ukrainian army on Thursday (November 16) published footage which it said showed Ukrainian troops capturing Russian trenches near the city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine. The video shows soldiers arriving in an armoured military carrier in a forest and exchanging fire with other soldiers.</p>

<p>Russia captured Bakhmut in May this year. The city and the region have seen some of the fiercest and bloodiest fights of the 20-month-old Russia-Ukraine war.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | UK’s newly appointed top diplomat David Cameron makes surprise visit to Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. After initial successes, Russian troops had to retreat from large swathes of land and Ukrainian troops advanced. The West, led by the US, has poured billions into Ukraine for humanitarian as well as military aid. There was an expectation that stabilised Ukrainian lines with better equipment and weapons would turn the tide and make big gains in their counter-offensive. But this has not happened so far leading to voices within the Western camp to question the spending and whether it should be continued or not.</p>

<h2><strong>Cameron's surprise Ukraine visit and assurance</strong></h2>

<p>Newly appointed British Foreign Secretary David Cameron, who is former UK PM, made a surprise visit to the Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Thursday (November 16) and vowed to continue military support to Ukraine.</p>

<p>The Israel-Hamas war has attracted the global gaze to this conflict in the Middle East. Given this, Cameron's visit to Kyiv is indeed an important development. There was also a symbolism attached to Cameron's visit as this was his first visit after becoming the UK's foreign minister.</p>

<p>Cameron met Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky.</p>

<p>"We will continue to give you the moral support, diplomatic support, the economic support, but above all, the military support, that you need not just this year, and next year, but for however long it takes," Cameron said during a meeting with Zelensky.</p>

<p>"Russia thinks it can wait this war out, and that the West will eventually turn its attention elsewhere. This could not be further from the truth," he added in a separate statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-strong-foothold-on-eastern-bank-of-dnipro-river-kherson-city-659308">Ukraine claims strong foothold on eastern bank of Dnipro river Kherson city</a></strong></p>

<p>Zelensky thanked Cameron for his visit.</p>

<p>"Now you know the world is not focused on the situation on our battlefield in Ukraine and dividing the focus really does not help," he told Cameron in a video distributed by the presidency.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/pwc-cyprus-helped-russian-oligarch-move-12-billion-after-ukraine-invasion-despite-sanctions-report-658707">PwC Cyprus helped Russian oligarch move $1.2 billion after Ukraine invasion despite sanctions: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Zelensky added that he and Cameron had a "good meeting" and that the focus was on "weapons for the front line, strengthening air defence, and protecting our people and critical infrastructure".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.)</em></strong></p>


A storming brigade of the Ukrainian army on Thursday (November 16) published footage which it said showed Ukrainian troops capturing Russian trenches near the city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine.

A storming brigade of the Ukrainian army on Thursday (November 16) published footage which it said showed Ukrainian troops capturing Russian trenches near the city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine. The video shows soldiers arriving in an armoured military carrier in a forest and exchanging fire with other soldiers. Russia captured Bakhmut in May this year. The city and the region have seen some of the fiercest and bloodiest fights of the 20-month-old Russia-Ukraine war. Watch | UK’s newly appointed top diplomat David Cameron makes surprise visit to Ukraine × Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. After initial successes, Russian troops had to retreat from large swathes of land and Ukrainian troops advanced. The West, led by the US, has poured billions into Ukraine for humanitarian as well as military aid. There was an expectation that stabilised Ukrainian lines with better equipment and weapons would turn the tide and make big gains in their counter-offensive. But this has not happened so far leading to voices within the Western camp to question the spending and whether it should be continued or not. Cameron's surprise Ukraine visit and assurance Newly appointed British Foreign Secretary David Cameron, who is former UK PM, made a surprise visit to the Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Thursday (November 16) and vowed to continue military support to Ukraine. The Israel-Hamas war has attracted the global gaze to this conflict in the Middle East. Given this, Cameron's visit to Kyiv is indeed an important development. There was also a symbolism attached to Cameron's visit as this was his first visit after becoming the UK's foreign minister. Cameron met Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky. "We will continue to give you the moral support, diplomatic support, the economic support, but above all, the military support, that you need not just this year, and next year, but for however long it takes," Cameron said during a meeting with Zelensky. "Russia thinks it can wait this war out, and that the West will eventually turn its attention elsewhere. This could not be further from the truth," he added in a separate statement. Also Read | Ukraine claims strong foothold on eastern bank of Dnipro river Kherson city Zelensky thanked Cameron for his visit. "Now you know the world is not focused on the situation on our battlefield in Ukraine and dividing the focus really does not help," he told Cameron in a video distributed by the presidency. Also Read | PwC Cyprus helped Russian oligarch move $1.2 billion after Ukraine invasion despite sanctions: Report Zelensky added that he and Cameron had a "good meeting" and that the focus was on "weapons for the front line, strengthening air defence, and protecting our people and critical infrastructure". (With inputs from agencies) (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.)

Ukranian army says its brigade stormed Russian trenches near Bakhmut

According to a defence ministry TV station aired on Thursday, Russia’s rocket forces placed an intercontinental ballistic missile outfitted with the nuclear-capable “Avangard” hypersonic glide vehicle into a launch silo in southern Russia.

Russia loads 'Avangard' missile into launch Silo, fears of nuclear warfare on rise | World DNA

<p>In a series of new sanctions against Russia, the European Commission has proposed a ban on imports of diamonds and liquid petroleum gas (LPG) from Moscow, EU diplomats said on Wednesday (Nov 15).</p>

<p>EU has also proposed to constrict the enactment of a price cap on Russian oil.</p>

<p>This comes as a part of the EU's 12th round of measures against Russia due to be discussed by its 27 member countries on Friday (Nov 17).</p>

<p>It also contains a ban on the transit through Russia of goods and technologies that could facilitate the country’s industrial capabilities, plus import bans on several metals.</p>

<p>The deal on the definitive package is expected to take weeks as it requires unanimous backing of all 27 EU states.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-plans-to-send-cosmonauts-to-moon-for-first-time-in-next-decade-658934">Russia plans to send cosmonauts to Moon for first time in next decade</a></p>

<p>The proposal includes a ban on direct diamond imports from Russia from Jan 1, 2024, and the implementation from March of a traceability mechanism that would stop imports of Russian gems processed in third countries, news agency Reuters reported citing EU diplomatic sources.</p>

<p>It would apply to natural and synthetic diamonds, and jewellery, from the beginning of 2024 and to Russian diamonds processed in third countries from next September.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The traceability mechanism is meant to be coordinated with G7 countries, including the United States, Canada, Britain and Japan.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/madagascar-imposes-curfew-in-antananarivo-ahead-of-presidential-elections-658872">Madagascar imposes curfew in Antananarivo ahead of presidential elections</a></p>

<p>Russia's economy has been affected by the sanctions but is not fully devastated as it is somehow still managing to massively increase its military spending.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest measures by the EU are aimed at further cutting down Russia's war treasury by targeting its lucrative diamond exports, worth some $4 billion (3.7 billion euro) a year before the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a series of new sanctions against Russia, the European Commission has proposed a ban on imports of diamonds and liquid petroleum gas (LPG) from Moscow, EU diplomats said on Wednesday (Nov 15).

In a series of new sanctions against Russia, the European Commission has proposed a ban on imports of diamonds and liquid petroleum gas (LPG) from Moscow, EU diplomats said on Wednesday (Nov 15). EU has also proposed to constrict the enactment of a price cap on Russian oil. This comes as a part of the EU's 12th round of measures against Russia due to be discussed by its 27 member countries on Friday (Nov 17). It also contains a ban on the transit through Russia of goods and technologies that could facilitate the country’s industrial capabilities, plus import bans on several metals. The deal on the definitive package is expected to take weeks as it requires unanimous backing of all 27 EU states. Also read: Russia plans to send cosmonauts to Moon for first time in next decade The proposal includes a ban on direct diamond imports from Russia from Jan 1, 2024, and the implementation from March of a traceability mechanism that would stop imports of Russian gems processed in third countries, news agency Reuters reported citing EU diplomatic sources. It would apply to natural and synthetic diamonds, and jewellery, from the beginning of 2024 and to Russian diamonds processed in third countries from next September. The traceability mechanism is meant to be coordinated with G7 countries, including the United States, Canada, Britain and Japan. Also read: Madagascar imposes curfew in Antananarivo ahead of presidential elections Russia's economy has been affected by the sanctions but is not fully devastated as it is somehow still managing to massively increase its military spending. The latest measures by the EU are aimed at further cutting down Russia's war treasury by targeting its lucrative diamond exports, worth some $4 billion (3.7 billion euro) a year before the war. (With inputs from agencies)

EU Commission proposes ban on Russian diamond imports

Western investors in Russian companies are bracing for a new presidential decree under consideration in Moscow which they fear could force them to sell their shareholdings to the Russian government at big discounts.

Russia's financial strategy

Russia loads missile with nuclear-capable glide vehicle into launch silo

New Foreign Secretary David Cameron has made his first working visit to Ukraine, meeting President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv.

UK’s newly appointed top diplomat David Cameron makes surprise visit to Ukraine

<p>A Russian artist who used and even replaced supermarket tags with messages against Russia's Ukraine invasion is awaiting the verdict of the court in a case against her. The verdict is expected to come on Thursday (November 16). The state prosecutor has asked for an eight-year jail sentence for her.</p>

<p>The case against Alexandra Skochilenko (33) is being viewed as part of a crackdown on dissent against Russia's "special military operation' in Ukraine. The crackdown has led to almost 20,000 people being detained and more than 800 criminal cases.</p>

<p>Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 last year. Russia has since then made its laws stricter in an attempt to silence critics of war. Russian President Vladimir Putin has chosen to project the Ukraine war as an existential struggle with the West.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine War Depletes Europe's Weapons Arsenal | EU Struggling to Send Arms Promised</strong></p>

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<p>Skochilenko, who is an artist and a musician also known as Sasha, had admitted that she replaced price tags in a supermarket in St Petersburg on March 31, 2022, with pieces of paper urging an end to the war. She has already spent more than a year and a half in prison. She denies the formal charge against her that she knowingly spread false information about the Russian army.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putins-daughter-criticises-laws-adopted-during-fathers-regime-658562">Vladimir Putin’s daughter criticises laws adopted during father’s regime</a></strong></p>

<p>The state prosecutor has asked the court to send Skochilenko to jail for eight years and also impose a three-year ban on using the internet. He has called her act a serious crime which has been committed out of hatred for Russia.</p>

<p>Skochilenko's lawyers have said that she has only acted as per her conscience and has committed no crime. They've also said that she would not survive jail because of a health issue she is suffering from already.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-chelsea-boss-roman-abramovich-has-financial-links-to-putin-through-wallets-report-658637">Ex-Chelsea boss Roman Abramovich has financial links to Putin through 'wallets': Report</a></strong></p>

<p>On Thursday, it is expected that Skochilenko will make a final statement in the St Petersburg court post which, the court will deliver a verdict on the same day.</p>

<p>Human rights group Amnesty International has declared that Skochilenko is "a prisoner of conscience" which means someone who is in jail just because of who they are or what they believe.</p>

<p>Yana Nepopvinnova, one of Skochilenko's lawyers, told the court on Monday that she should be acquitted.</p>

<p>"You should never punish people for thinking and feeling differently. You should never punish people for objective criticism of the authorities and their decisions," she said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A Russian artist who used and even replaced supermarket tags with messages against Russia's Ukraine invasion is awaiting the verdict of the court in a case against her.

A Russian artist who used and even replaced supermarket tags with messages against Russia's Ukraine invasion is awaiting the verdict of the court in a case against her. The verdict is expected to come on Thursday (November 16). The state prosecutor has asked for an eight-year jail sentence for her. The case against Alexandra Skochilenko (33) is being viewed as part of a crackdown on dissent against Russia's "special military operation' in Ukraine. The crackdown has led to almost 20,000 people being detained and more than 800 criminal cases. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 last year. Russia has since then made its laws stricter in an attempt to silence critics of war. Russian President Vladimir Putin has chosen to project the Ukraine war as an existential struggle with the West. Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine War Depletes Europe's Weapons Arsenal | EU Struggling to Send Arms Promised × Skochilenko, who is an artist and a musician also known as Sasha, had admitted that she replaced price tags in a supermarket in St Petersburg on March 31, 2022, with pieces of paper urging an end to the war. She has already spent more than a year and a half in prison. She denies the formal charge against her that she knowingly spread false information about the Russian army. Also Read | Vladimir Putin’s daughter criticises laws adopted during father’s regime The state prosecutor has asked the court to send Skochilenko to jail for eight years and also impose a three-year ban on using the internet. He has called her act a serious crime which has been committed out of hatred for Russia. Skochilenko's lawyers have said that she has only acted as per her conscience and has committed no crime. They've also said that she would not survive jail because of a health issue she is suffering from already. Also Read | Ex-Chelsea boss Roman Abramovich has financial links to Putin through 'wallets': Report On Thursday, it is expected that Skochilenko will make a final statement in the St Petersburg court post which, the court will deliver a verdict on the same day. Human rights group Amnesty International has declared that Skochilenko is "a prisoner of conscience" which means someone who is in jail just because of who they are or what they believe. Yana Nepopvinnova, one of Skochilenko's lawyers, told the court on Monday that she should be acquitted. "You should never punish people for thinking and feeling differently. You should never punish people for objective criticism of the authorities and their decisions," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia: Artist who used price tags for anti-war messages awaits court verdict

The European Union will be able to work around any Hungarian veto and give Ukraine 50 billion euros ($53.4 bln) in aid, officials in the bloc said, as Kyiv struggles to push back Russia's invasion 21 months into the war.

Will Hungary veto EU aid to Ukraine?

The UK has delivered over 300,000 artillery shells to Ukraine and is committed to delivering tens of thousands more artillery shells this year, the Defence Secretary announced.

UK has delivered over 300,000 artillery shells to Ukraine

<p>Ukrainian capital city Kyiv witnessed missile attacks from Russia on Saturday (Nov 11), the first such attack in about two months, according to the city's mayor Vitali Klitschko.&nbsp;“Strong explosions were heard on the left bank of the capital,” Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko posted on Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv neighbourhood areas were also reportedly pounded by Moscow as the war is closing on its second anniversary in February next year.&nbsp;Head of the Kyiv city military administration Serhiy Popko said that the missile attack on Kyiv was thwarted and it "failed to reach" as "air defenders shot it down as it was approaching the capital."</p>

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<p>Regional governor for the central Kyiv region Ruslan Kravchenko, said that damage was reported at five houses and many other commercial buildings and that two Russian missiles hit a field between settlements, eventually saving the city from any major devastation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per Ukrainian officials, the country faced attacks by Russian drones in its east and south.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-we-are-doing-in-gaza-we-can-do-in-beirut-israeli-defence-minister-warns-hezbollah-not-to-escalate-war-657671">'What we are doing in Gaza we can do in Beirut', Israeli defence minister warns Hezbollah not to escalate war</a></p>

<p>A total of 19 Iranian-made "Shahed" drones were struck down by Ukraine from the 31 drones launched by the Russian forces.&nbsp;This comes as a September report indicated that Russia has managed to increase its artillery production in response to rising demand in the ongoing Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the same time, there has been progress in Ukraine, as border guards said the successful retaking of a village in the northeastern part of the country close to the Russian border.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-hamas-fighters-battle-israeli-forces-in-southern-israel-657651">Israel-Palestine war: Hamas fighters battle Israeli forces in southern Israel</a></strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Germany increases Ukraine military aid</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine is also set to get military assistance from its major partner, Germany. Reports citing sources indicate that the governing coalition led by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has reached an agreement to increase German military aid for Ukraine to 8 billion euros ($8.54 billion) next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report also mentioned that should this proposal receive approval from the Berlin parliament, it would surpass Germany's defence spending above 2 per cent of the gross domestic product target committed to by all North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) members.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>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</em></strong></p>


Ukrainian capital city Kyiv witnessed missile attacks from Russia on Saturday (Nov 11), the first such attack in about two months, according to the city's mayor Vitali Klitschko.

Ukrainian capital city Kyiv witnessed missile attacks from Russia on Saturday (Nov 11), the first such attack in about two months, according to the city's mayor Vitali Klitschko. “Strong explosions were heard on the left bank of the capital,” Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko posted on Telegram. Kyiv neighbourhood areas were also reportedly pounded by Moscow as the war is closing on its second anniversary in February next year. Head of the Kyiv city military administration Serhiy Popko said that the missile attack on Kyiv was thwarted and it "failed to reach" as "air defenders shot it down as it was approaching the capital." Also Read | India at UN votes in favour of resolution slamming Israeli settlements in Palestinian territories Regional governor for the central Kyiv region Ruslan Kravchenko, said that damage was reported at five houses and many other commercial buildings and that two Russian missiles hit a field between settlements, eventually saving the city from any major devastation. As per Ukrainian officials, the country faced attacks by Russian drones in its east and south. Also Read | 'What we are doing in Gaza we can do in Beirut', Israeli defence minister warns Hezbollah not to escalate war A total of 19 Iranian-made "Shahed" drones were struck down by Ukraine from the 31 drones launched by the Russian forces. This comes as a September report indicated that Russia has managed to increase its artillery production in response to rising demand in the ongoing Ukraine war. At the same time, there has been progress in Ukraine, as border guards said the successful retaking of a village in the northeastern part of the country close to the Russian border. Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Hamas fighters battle Israeli forces in southern Israel × Germany increases Ukraine military aid Ukraine is also set to get military assistance from its major partner, Germany. Reports citing sources indicate that the governing coalition led by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has reached an agreement to increase German military aid for Ukraine to 8 billion euros ($8.54 billion) next year. The report also mentioned that should this proposal receive approval from the Berlin parliament, it would surpass Germany's defence spending above 2 per cent of the gross domestic product target committed to by all North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) members. (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's air defenders shoot down Russian missiles as Kyiv is pounded for first time in months

<p>In a startling revelation, it has been reported that a senior Ukrainian military officer, deeply entrenched within the country’s intelligence network, played a pivotal role in the bombing of the Nord Stream natural gas pipelines last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a joint investigation by The Washington Post and German publication Der Spiegel, Roman Chervinsky, a decorated 48-year-old colonel with ties to Ukraine’s special operations forces, served as the coordinator for the covert operation, overseeing logistics and support for a six-person team that carried out the attack on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines on September 26, 2022.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Chervinsky's involvement shows a direct connection between Ukraine’s military and security leadership and the act of sabotage that has triggered multiple criminal investigations across Europe and beyond.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-two-ukrainians-blew-up-nord-stream-pipelines-german-media-595393">At least two Ukrainians blew up Nord Stream pipelines: German media</a></strong></p>

<p>The bombing, deemed a dangerous attack on Europe’s energy infrastructure by &nbsp;the US and Western officials, resulted in massive leaks and disrupted gas supply links as winter approached.</p>

<p>According to Washington Post, contrary to initial assumptions, Chervinsky did not act independently. He reportedly received orders from higher-ranking Ukrainian officials, ultimately reporting to Gen. Valery Zaluzhny, Ukraine’s highest-ranking military officer.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Nord Stream sabotage</strong></h2>

<p>The Nord Stream attack targeted crucial civilian infrastructure designed to provide energy to millions in Europe.</p>

<p>While Gazprom, the Russian state-owned gas conglomerate, holds the majority stake in Nord Stream, Western energy companies, including those from Germany, France, and the Netherlands, are partners with significant investments in the project. Ukraine had long expressed grievances that Nord Stream would allow Russia to bypass its pipes, depriving Kyiv of substantial transit revenue.</p>

<h2><strong>Chervinsky's reaction</strong></h2>

<p>Chervinsky, through his lawyer, has vehemently denied any involvement in the pipeline sabotage, dismissing the accusations as 'baseless'.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;The Nord stream mystery deepens, here's a special report</strong></p>

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<p>"All speculations about my involvement in the attack on Nord Stream are being spread by Russian propaganda without any basis," Chervinsky was quoted as saying by the Washington Post.</p>

<p>He is currently detained on charges of abusing his power in a separate incident. Chervinsky claims his arrest is politically motivated, alleging retribution for criticising President Zelensky and accusing one of his aides of spying for Russia.</p>

<p>Chervinsky’s controversial history includes overseeing a plan in 2020 to lure fighters for Russia’s Wagner mercenary group into Belarus and planning operations to eliminate pro-Russian separatist leaders in Ukraine.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>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</em></strong></p>


In a startling revelation, it has been reported that a senior Ukrainian military officer, deeply entrenched within the country’s intelligence network, played a pivotal role in the bombing of the Nord Stream natural gas pipelines last year.

In a startling revelation, it has been reported that a senior Ukrainian military officer, deeply entrenched within the country’s intelligence network, played a pivotal role in the bombing of the Nord Stream natural gas pipelines last year. According to a joint investigation by The Washington Post and German publication Der Spiegel, Roman Chervinsky, a decorated 48-year-old colonel with ties to Ukraine’s special operations forces, served as the coordinator for the covert operation, overseeing logistics and support for a six-person team that carried out the attack on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines on September 26, 2022. What does it mean? Chervinsky's involvement shows a direct connection between Ukraine’s military and security leadership and the act of sabotage that has triggered multiple criminal investigations across Europe and beyond. Also read | At least two Ukrainians blew up Nord Stream pipelines: German media The bombing, deemed a dangerous attack on Europe’s energy infrastructure by the US and Western officials, resulted in massive leaks and disrupted gas supply links as winter approached. According to Washington Post, contrary to initial assumptions, Chervinsky did not act independently. He reportedly received orders from higher-ranking Ukrainian officials, ultimately reporting to Gen. Valery Zaluzhny, Ukraine’s highest-ranking military officer. Nord Stream sabotage The Nord Stream attack targeted crucial civilian infrastructure designed to provide energy to millions in Europe. While Gazprom, the Russian state-owned gas conglomerate, holds the majority stake in Nord Stream, Western energy companies, including those from Germany, France, and the Netherlands, are partners with significant investments in the project. Ukraine had long expressed grievances that Nord Stream would allow Russia to bypass its pipes, depriving Kyiv of substantial transit revenue. Chervinsky's reaction Chervinsky, through his lawyer, has vehemently denied any involvement in the pipeline sabotage, dismissing the accusations as 'baseless'. Also watch | The Nord stream mystery deepens, here's a special report × "All speculations about my involvement in the attack on Nord Stream are being spread by Russian propaganda without any basis," Chervinsky was quoted as saying by the Washington Post. He is currently detained on charges of abusing his power in a separate incident. Chervinsky claims his arrest is politically motivated, alleging retribution for criticising President Zelensky and accusing one of his aides of spying for Russia. Chervinsky’s controversial history includes overseeing a plan in 2020 to lure fighters for Russia’s Wagner mercenary group into Belarus and planning operations to eliminate pro-Russian separatist leaders in Ukraine. (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

Did Zelensky lie all this while? New report claims Ukrainian military officer coordinated Nord Stream sabotage

Russia has launched a new offensive in Ukraine and is pounding the town of Avdiivka in the eastern Ukrainian region of Donetsk. The town has become one of the most intense hotspots in the war after Bakhmut's fall in May this year. The Ukrainian military says it has circled the town with over 40,000 troops.

Gravitas | Russia turns Avdiivka into another Bakhmut | 40,000 troops encircle Ukrainian town

14 months after the 2022 Nordstrom explosion, new claims have been made by US daily Washington Post.

Nordstream blast: Ukranian soldier involved?

A new twist to mystery of Nordstream blasts

Updates from the Russia-Ukraine war, missile targeting Kyiv has ended nearly two months of relative calm in the Ukrainian Capital. While the frontline regions fended off waves of drone attacks overnight. The Ukrainian Air Force said it destroyed a missile approaching Kyiv.

Russia-Ukraine war | Ukraine: Drowned 19 out of 31 drone attacks in the past two days

Ahead of the harsh winter months on the battleground, Russia is reportedly asking allies to return the military equipment that it had sold to them. This even as Russia ramps up weapons production to meet its battlefield demands. Meanwhile, a Pentagon official has said that U.S. aid to Ukraine could shrink. What do these developments mean for the war in Ukraine? Watch this video to find out.

Gravitas: Russia stockpiles for winter attacks on Ukraine | US aid to Kyiv at risk?

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has seen Russian forces attacking Ukrainian ports, including Odesa, Chornomorsk, and Mykolaiv, with missiles and drones.

Russia-Ukraine war: Putin visits military HQ in Roston-on-Dov

Kristallnacht occurred on 9 and 10 November 1938, when the Nazi Parties in Germany and Austria launched a wave of attacks on Jews and Jewish property, further escalating their policy of persecution.

Marking the 85th anniversary of Kristallnacht

In a strategic shift, India has managed to save $2.7 billion by opting for discounted Russian oil. This move not only supports India's economic growth but also eases the pressure on its trade deficit. India, the world's third-largest oil importer and consumer, has managed to surpass Europe as the largest buyer of Russian crude this year. This shift comes in the aftermath of western sanctions on Moscow due to its invasion of Ukraine.

Russia tops India's oil suppliers | World DNA

<p>Republican White House hopeful and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy slammed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;on Wednesday (Nov 8) during the third&nbsp;GOP&nbsp;debate. Ramaswamy called Zelensky, who is Jewish, a “Nazi” during the debate in Miami, Florida and reiterated Republican talking points which have sought to cut aid for Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Comedian in cargo pants’</strong></h2>

<p>In a series of scathing remarks against the Ukrainian president, Ramaswamy seemingly accused Zelensky of being a Nazi when asked about his recent plea for more aid from the United States during the debate. The Ukrainian president, who is Jewish, lost family members in the Holocaust.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-desantis-claims-he-saved-americans-stuck-in-conflict-when-biden-left-them-stranded-656789">Israel-Hamas war: DeSantis claims he saved Americans stuck in conflict, when Biden 'left them stranded'</a></strong></p>

<p>While a number of Republicans on the stage said they would support the idea of sending more aid to Ukraine, Ramaswamy – an aggressive critic of American aid to Ukraine – said, “Ukraine is not a paragon of democracy,” adding “It has celebrated a Nazi in its ranks. A comedian in cargo pants. The man called Zelensky. That is not democratic.”</p>

<p>The US presidential hopeful also said, “This is a country that has banned 11 opposition parties. It has consolidated all media into one state TV media arm – that’s not democratic. It has threatened not to hold elections this year unless the US forks over more money – that is not democratic.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“To frame this as some battle between good versus evil – don’t buy it,” Ramaswamy claimed.</p>

<p>So far, the US Congress has approved about $113 billion in aid for Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ramaswamy's remarks garner criticism</strong></h2>

<p>The remarks quickly garnered criticism, with many taking to social media and saying Ramaswamy is playing into Russian talking points.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republican-presidential-debate-nikki-haley-clashes-on-stage-with-vivek-ramaswamy-calls-him-scum-656797">Republican presidential debate: Nikki Haley clashes with Vivek Ramaswamy, calls him 'scum'</a></strong></p>

<p>“Repeating offensive Kremlin talking points is an odd way to try to win votes in the USA,” retired Navy admiral James Stavridis wrote on X.</p>

<p>This comes as Russia has repeatedly attacked the Ukrainian government and officials by calling them Nazis. President Vladimir Putin in his speech just before launching what Moscow calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine said that the goal of his offensive was to “denazify” Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did his campaign say?</strong></h2>

<p>Tricia McLaughlin, a spokesperson for Ramaswamy’s campaign, in an interview with the New York Times later clarified that he did not call Zelensky a Nazi, but was instead referring to an incident in the Canadian parliament back in September.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trudeau-issues-apology-for-standing-ovation-to-nazi-veteran-in-canadian-parliament-640402">Trudeau issues apology for standing ovation to Nazi veteran in Canadian Parliament</a></strong></p>

<p>During his visit to Canada, the Ukrainian president joined a standing ovation honouring a 98-year-old Ukrainian Canadian war veteran, Yaroslav Hunka. But it turned out later that Hunka&nbsp;in fact served in a division that was under Nazi control during World War II.&nbsp;</p>

<p>McLaughlin said that Ramaswamy was referring to Zelensky’s joining in the applause. However, she also did acknowledge that without context, that remark can be misunderstood. “He was talking quickly and kind of oscillated in his words,” McLaughlin told the New York Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Republican White House hopeful and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy slammed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (Nov 8) during the third GOP debate. Ramaswamy called Zelensky, who is Jewish, a “Nazi” during the debate in Miami, Florida and reiterated Republican talking points which have sought to cut aid for Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia.

Republican White House hopeful and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy slammed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (Nov 8) during the third GOP debate. Ramaswamy called Zelensky, who is Jewish, a “Nazi” during the debate in Miami, Florida and reiterated Republican talking points which have sought to cut aid for Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia. ‘Comedian in cargo pants’ In a series of scathing remarks against the Ukrainian president, Ramaswamy seemingly accused Zelensky of being a Nazi when asked about his recent plea for more aid from the United States during the debate. The Ukrainian president, who is Jewish, lost family members in the Holocaust. ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war: DeSantis claims he saved Americans stuck in conflict, when Biden 'left them stranded' While a number of Republicans on the stage said they would support the idea of sending more aid to Ukraine, Ramaswamy – an aggressive critic of American aid to Ukraine – said, “Ukraine is not a paragon of democracy,” adding “It has celebrated a Nazi in its ranks. A comedian in cargo pants. The man called Zelensky. That is not democratic.” The US presidential hopeful also said, “This is a country that has banned 11 opposition parties. It has consolidated all media into one state TV media arm – that’s not democratic. It has threatened not to hold elections this year unless the US forks over more money – that is not democratic.” “To frame this as some battle between good versus evil – don’t buy it,” Ramaswamy claimed. So far, the US Congress has approved about $113 billion in aid for Kyiv. Ramaswamy's remarks garner criticism The remarks quickly garnered criticism, with many taking to social media and saying Ramaswamy is playing into Russian talking points. ALSO READ | Republican presidential debate: Nikki Haley clashes with Vivek Ramaswamy, calls him 'scum' “Repeating offensive Kremlin talking points is an odd way to try to win votes in the USA,” retired Navy admiral James Stavridis wrote on X. This comes as Russia has repeatedly attacked the Ukrainian government and officials by calling them Nazis. President Vladimir Putin in his speech just before launching what Moscow calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine said that the goal of his offensive was to “denazify” Kyiv. What did his campaign say? Tricia McLaughlin, a spokesperson for Ramaswamy’s campaign, in an interview with the New York Times later clarified that he did not call Zelensky a Nazi, but was instead referring to an incident in the Canadian parliament back in September. ALSO READ | Trudeau issues apology for standing ovation to Nazi veteran in Canadian Parliament During his visit to Canada, the Ukrainian president joined a standing ovation honouring a 98-year-old Ukrainian Canadian war veteran, Yaroslav Hunka. But it turned out later that Hunka in fact served in a division that was under Nazi control during World War II. McLaughlin said that Ramaswamy was referring to Zelensky’s joining in the applause. However, she also did acknowledge that without context, that remark can be misunderstood. “He was talking quickly and kind of oscillated in his words,” McLaughlin told the New York Times. (With inputs from agencies)

Vivek Ramaswamy calls Ukraine’s Zelensky ‘Nazi’ during GOP presidential debate; campaign clarifies remark

<p>Russian state news agency RIA Novosti has reported a concerning development in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. According to the report, Russian authorities are sending Ukrainian prisoners of war (PoWs) to the frontlines to fight on Moscow's side in the war.</p>

<p>Video footage released by RIA Novosti showed Ukrainian PoWs swearing allegiance to Russia, brandishing rifles, and dressed in military attire, as they prepare to join a battalion named after medieval nobleman Bogdan Khmelnitsky, who is considered a national hero in Russia for his role in bringing parts of Ukraine under Moscow's control in the 15th century. This&nbsp;revelation suggests that Ukrainian PoWs are being coerced into fighting for Russia.</p>

<h2><strong>Geneva conventions violations</strong></h2>

<p>The authenticity of the report and the videos remains unconfirmed, and it's unclear whether the PoWs are acting willingly or under duress, reported the Guardian.&nbsp;However, experts have raised concerns that such actions, if true, would constitute a violation of the Geneva Conventions, which prohibit PoWs from being exposed to combat or subjected to unhealthy or dangerous conditions, regardless of their willingness to participate.</p>

<p>Yulia Gorbunova, a senior researcher at Human Rights Watch, explained to the Guardian the challenges faced by PoWs in making voluntary decisions while in coercive custody, suggesting that true voluntariness is difficult to achieve in such circumstances.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-commission-formally-opens-membership-talks-with-ukraine-656614">Also read |&nbsp;EU Commission formally opens membership talks with Ukraine</a></p>

<p>Notably, this isn't the first instance of Russia's questionable practices in recruiting combatants. Russia has previously deployed inmates from its own prisons to fight in Ukraine, offering commuted sentences as an incentive for survival. Additionally, the country is using a "conscription campaign" in occupied Ukrainian regions to bolster its forces without resorting to a general mobilisation.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia tops India's oil suppliers</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-tops-indias-oil-suppliers-world-dna-656778/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>These Ukrainian PoWs, now deployed to fight in eastern Ukraine, do not appear to be part of a conventional Russian military unit. Instead, they are associated with irregular formations that do not adhere to the standard military force structure. This unconventional approach allows Russia to increase its combat force without facing the social implications of a general mobilisation.</p>

<p>The international community is closely monitoring these developments, and concerns are growing about the treatment of Ukrainian PoWs and the potential violations of international humanitarian laws.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russian state news agency RIA Novosti has reported a concerning development in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. According to the report, Russian authorities are sending Ukrainian prisoners of war (PoWs) to the frontlines to fight on Moscow's side in the war.

Russian state news agency RIA Novosti has reported a concerning development in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. According to the report, Russian authorities are sending Ukrainian prisoners of war (PoWs) to the frontlines to fight on Moscow's side in the war. Video footage released by RIA Novosti showed Ukrainian PoWs swearing allegiance to Russia, brandishing rifles, and dressed in military attire, as they prepare to join a battalion named after medieval nobleman Bogdan Khmelnitsky, who is considered a national hero in Russia for his role in bringing parts of Ukraine under Moscow's control in the 15th century. This revelation suggests that Ukrainian PoWs are being coerced into fighting for Russia. Geneva conventions violations The authenticity of the report and the videos remains unconfirmed, and it's unclear whether the PoWs are acting willingly or under duress, reported the Guardian. However, experts have raised concerns that such actions, if true, would constitute a violation of the Geneva Conventions, which prohibit PoWs from being exposed to combat or subjected to unhealthy or dangerous conditions, regardless of their willingness to participate. Yulia Gorbunova, a senior researcher at Human Rights Watch, explained to the Guardian the challenges faced by PoWs in making voluntary decisions while in coercive custody, suggesting that true voluntariness is difficult to achieve in such circumstances. Also read | EU Commission formally opens membership talks with Ukraine Notably, this isn't the first instance of Russia's questionable practices in recruiting combatants. Russia has previously deployed inmates from its own prisons to fight in Ukraine, offering commuted sentences as an incentive for survival. Additionally, the country is using a "conscription campaign" in occupied Ukrainian regions to bolster its forces without resorting to a general mobilisation. Also watch | Russia tops India's oil suppliers These Ukrainian PoWs, now deployed to fight in eastern Ukraine, do not appear to be part of a conventional Russian military unit. Instead, they are associated with irregular formations that do not adhere to the standard military force structure. This unconventional approach allows Russia to increase its combat force without facing the social implications of a general mobilisation. The international community is closely monitoring these developments, and concerns are growing about the treatment of Ukrainian PoWs and the potential violations of international humanitarian laws. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian prisoners of war are being sent to fight their own army: Report

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