<p>Ukraine undertook drone strikes on Moscow yet again, hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin hinted at reconciliation. On Sunday (July 30), two office blocks were damaged in a night-time attack in the capital city. In other news, former US president Donald Trump's $475 million defamation lawsuit against CNN has been quashed by a US District judge that he had nominated in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on headlines to read more:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-claims-russia-does-not-reject-peace-talks-amid-ukrainian-drone-attack-on-moscow-city-620699"><strong>Putin claims Russia does not reject peace talks amid Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow City</strong></a></p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday (July 29) said that an initiative by African countries could be a basis for peace with Ukraine but the attacks by Ukrainian forces made it hard to realise, hours before a Ukrainian drone attack took place on Moscow.</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/30/370247-untitled-design-2023-07-30t081900249.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-475-million-big-lie-lawsuit-against-cnn-quashed-by-us-court-620706"><strong>Trump's $475 million 'Big Lie' lawsuit against CNN quashed by US court</strong></a></p>

<p>A US federal judge has quashed the $475 million defamation lawsuit by former US president Donald Trump against CNN for allegedly likening him to Adolf Hitler.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/18/367959-trump.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protests-mount-in-israel-as-army-reservists-threaten-to-refuse-duty-620697"><strong>Protests mount in Israel as army reservists threaten to refuse duty</strong></a></p>

<p>Days after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pushed through a new legislation that curbs judicial review by the country's apex court of some government decisions, the protesters continue to ramp up the pressure. On Saturday night, tens of thousands of flag-waving Israelis took to the streets and renewed their protests against the unpopular reforms</p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-accused-of-infiltrating-us-defence-system-with-ticking-time-bomb-malware-620704"><strong>China accused of infiltrating US defence system with 'ticking time bomb' malware</strong></a></p>

<p>The US officials are currently searching for Chinese malware hidden within country's defence systems, which could potentially disrupt military communications and resupply operations, New York Times reported.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/superconductor-breakthrough-why-our-lives-may-never-be-the-same-again-620687"><strong>Superconductor Breakthrough: Why our lives may never be the same again?</strong></a></p>

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Ukraine undertook drone strikes on Moscow yet again, hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin hinted at reconciliation. On Sunday (July 30), two office blocks were damaged in a night-time attack in the capital city.

Ukraine undertook drone strikes on Moscow yet again, hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin hinted at reconciliation. On Sunday (July 30), two office blocks were damaged in a night-time attack in the capital city. In other news, former US president Donald Trump's $475 million defamation lawsuit against CNN has been quashed by a US District judge that he had nominated in 2019. Click on headlines to read more: Putin claims Russia does not reject peace talks amid Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow City Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday (July 29) said that an initiative by African countries could be a basis for peace with Ukraine but the attacks by Ukrainian forces made it hard to realise, hours before a Ukrainian drone attack took place on Moscow. Trump's $475 million 'Big Lie' lawsuit against CNN quashed by US court A US federal judge has quashed the $475 million defamation lawsuit by former US president Donald Trump against CNN for allegedly likening him to Adolf Hitler. Protests mount in Israel as army reservists threaten to refuse duty Days after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pushed through a new legislation that curbs judicial review by the country's apex court of some government decisions, the protesters continue to ramp up the pressure. On Saturday night, tens of thousands of flag-waving Israelis took to the streets and renewed their protests against the unpopular reforms China accused of infiltrating US defence system with 'ticking time bomb' malware The US officials are currently searching for Chinese malware hidden within country's defence systems, which could potentially disrupt military communications and resupply operations, New York Times reported. Superconductor Breakthrough: Why our lives may never be the same again? ×

Morning brief: Drone attack in Moscow, Trump's CNN lawsuit quashed, and more

Russian president Vladimir Putin has claimed that Moscow has not rejected talks with Ukraine and is studying the peace plan proposed by Africa. He said that the peace plans proposed by China and Africa could be the ones which can serve as basis to resolve the conflict. Putin added that it is hard to implement a ceasefire when the Ukrainian army is on the offensive. During the summit, eritrea's president Isaias Afwerki who is also among the participants declared that there is no Russia-Ukraine war. Afwerki blamed the war in Ukraine on NATO, saying that its objective is to "Dominate the world. Saudi Arabia is reportedly set to host talks on Ukraine conflcit in August. As per a report by the wall street journal, the two-day talks will be held in Jeddah. Senior officials from over 30 countries will be attending the meeting. These include Indonesia, Egypt, Mexico, Chile and India as well. United States' national security adviser jake sullivan is expected to attend the meeting.

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin claims that Russia has not rejected talks with Ukraine

<p>Russia on Sunday (July 30) said that its forces thwarted an attempt by Ukraine to attack Russia-annexed Crimea with 25 drones overnight.</p>

<p>"Sixteen Ukrainian UAVs were destroyed by air defence fire," said the Russian defence ministry, speaking about the unmanned aerial vehicles. "Another nine Ukrainian drones were suppressed by means of electronic warfare and, without reaching the target, crashed into the Black Sea," said the ministry, adding that no victims were reported in the attack.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-claims-russia-does-not-reject-peace-talks-amid-ukrainian-drone-attack-on-moscow-city-620699">Amid Ukrainian drone attack in Moscow, Putin claims Russia is not against peace talks</a></p>

<p>Russia had annexed Crimea in 2014 and it has remained on Kyiv's radar&nbsp;throughout Moscow's offensive against Ukraine. However, the region has come under more intense, increased attacks in the last&nbsp;few weeks.</p>

<p>Repeatedly, Kyiv has expressed its intention of taking back Crimea.</p>

<h2><strong>Three Ukrainian drones downed over Moscow</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the Russian defence ministry on Sunday (July 30) said that three Ukrainian drones were shot down over Moscow. In the attack, two office towers were damaged and an international airport was briefly shut.</p>

<p>Russian officials shot down one of the drones on the outskirts of the city and two others were "suppressed by electronic warfare", but they smashed into an office complex. No injuries were reported in the incident.</p>

<p>The defence ministry said it was an "attempted terrorist attack". "On the morning of July 30, the Kyiv regime's attempted terrorist attack with unmanned aerial vehicles on objects in the city of Moscow was thwarted," it stated on Telegram.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russian capital comes under drone attack allegedly from Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>"One Ukrainian UAV was destroyed in the air by air defence systems over the territory of the Odintsovo district of Moscow region. Two more drones were suppressed by electronic warfare and, having lost control, crashed on the territory of Moscow City's non-residential building complex,” the ministry added.</p>

<p>Moscow City Mayor Sergei Sobyanin posted on Telegram informing that the "facades of two city office towers were slightly damaged". He further stated that there were "no victims or injured".</p>

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Russia on Sunday (July 30) said that its forces thwarted an attempt by Ukraine to attack Russia-annexed Crimea with 25 drones overnight. "Sixteen Ukrainian UAVs were destroyed by air defence fire," said the Russian defence ministry, speaking about the unmanned aerial vehicles.

Russia on Sunday (July 30) said that its forces thwarted an attempt by Ukraine to attack Russia-annexed Crimea with 25 drones overnight. "Sixteen Ukrainian UAVs were destroyed by air defence fire," said the Russian defence ministry, speaking about the unmanned aerial vehicles. "Another nine Ukrainian drones were suppressed by means of electronic warfare and, without reaching the target, crashed into the Black Sea," said the ministry, adding that no victims were reported in the attack. ALSO READ | Amid Ukrainian drone attack in Moscow, Putin claims Russia is not against peace talks Russia had annexed Crimea in 2014 and it has remained on Kyiv's radar throughout Moscow's offensive against Ukraine. However, the region has come under more intense, increased attacks in the last few weeks. Repeatedly, Kyiv has expressed its intention of taking back Crimea. Three Ukrainian drones downed over Moscow Meanwhile, the Russian defence ministry on Sunday (July 30) said that three Ukrainian drones were shot down over Moscow. In the attack, two office towers were damaged and an international airport was briefly shut. Russian officials shot down one of the drones on the outskirts of the city and two others were "suppressed by electronic warfare", but they smashed into an office complex. No injuries were reported in the incident. The defence ministry said it was an "attempted terrorist attack". "On the morning of July 30, the Kyiv regime's attempted terrorist attack with unmanned aerial vehicles on objects in the city of Moscow was thwarted," it stated on Telegram. WATCH | Russian capital comes under drone attack allegedly from Ukraine "One Ukrainian UAV was destroyed in the air by air defence systems over the territory of the Odintsovo district of Moscow region. Two more drones were suppressed by electronic warfare and, having lost control, crashed on the territory of Moscow City's non-residential building complex,” the ministry added. Moscow City Mayor Sergei Sobyanin posted on Telegram informing that the "facades of two city office towers were slightly damaged". He further stated that there were "no victims or injured". You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia says Ukrainian attack on Crimea with 25 drones 'thwarted'

Saudi Arabia is all set to host Ukraine peace talks in Jeddah next month with an aim to find a way to start negotiations over Russia’s war on Ukraine. According to reports, a total of 30 countries will be taking part in the summit.

Can Saudi Arabia broker peace between Russia and Ukraine

The two office buildings were damaged in the drone attack on Moscow, the capital of Russia, which Russian authorities are currently blaming on Ukraine, according to Moscow's mayor. He added that no one was hurt. Rescue efforts started as soon as law enforcement agencies arrived on the scene.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian capital comes under drone attack allegedly from Ukraine

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday (July 29) said that an initiative by African countries could be a basis for peace with Ukraine but the attacks by Ukrainian forces made it hard to realise, hours before a Ukrainian drone attack took place on Moscow.<br />
<br />
Putin was addressing a press conference after holding a meeting with African leaders in St Petersburg and listening to their calls for Moscow to take steps and go ahead with their plan. "There are provisions of this peace initiative that are being implemented. But there are things that are difficult or impossible to implement,” he said.<br />
<br />
Putin stated that the ceasefire was one of the points in the African initiative. "But the Ukrainian army is on the offensive, they are attacking, they are implementing a large-scale strategic offensive operation... We cannot cease fire when we are under attack,” he said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-attacks-are-intensifying-claims-putin-620046">Ukraine intensifying attacks on frontline, Russian forces inflicted heavy losses, claims Putin</a></p>

<p>Answering the question of initiating peace talks, Putin said, "We did not reject them... In order for this process to begin, there needs to be agreement on both sides."</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow</strong></h2>

<p>Two office blocks were damaged and one person was injured in a night-time Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow, said the mayor of the Russian capital early on Sunday (July 30), adding that no one suffered injuries. "Ukrainian drones attacked tonight. The facades of two city office towers were slightly damaged. There are no victims or injured," posted Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin on Telegram.<br />
<br />
"The glazing was shattered as a result of the blast at the level of fifth and sixth floors of the 50-story building on Presnenskaya embankment," an official said, as reported by TASS.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Footage of a drone explosion over a skyscraper in Moscow City <a href="https://t.co/aVC1auiOvz">pic.twitter.com/aVC1auiOvz</a></p>
— Spriter Team (@SpriterTeam) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpriterTeam/status/1685465081662803968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Russia's defence ministry, confirming that three Ukrainian drones were downed by them,&nbsp;said on Telegram, "The Kyiv regime's attempted terrorist attack with unmanned aerial vehicles on objects in the city of Moscow was thwarted,"&nbsp;adding that one was shot down and two, "suppressed by electronic warfare", crashed into a building complex.</p>

<p>Moscow's Vnukovo International Airport was shut down to traffic on Sunday, a Russian state news agency report said. "The capital's Vnukovo airport is closed for departures and arrivals, flights are redirected to other airports. This was reported by the aviation services,” TASS reported.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Africa summit: Putin promises free grain to African nations</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, on the Ukrainian side, one civilian was killed in a Russian missile attack on Saturday (July 29) in the northeast Ukrainian city of Sumy, informed the national police, further stating that five people were injured in the strike on an education centre.<br />
<br />
"On the evening of July 29, an enemy missile hit an educational institution. Law enforcement officers are working at the scene, recording the effects," the force shared on Telegram, confirming the initial toll as "at least one civilian dead and five injured". "Police, rescue workers and medics are on the scene", it stated.</p>

<h2><strong>Saudi invites developing nations for Ukraine peace talks</strong></h2>

<p>The leading developing nations have been invited by Saudi Arabia to hold the meeting in a bid to win their backing for Ukraine peace talks. Senior government officials from China, Brazil, South Africa and India have been invited for talks in Jeddah which will be held for two days.<br />
<br />
The meeting will aim at persuading countries from South America, Africa and south-east Asia to support the Ukrainian peace plan&nbsp;which calls for an end to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war by letting Kyiv reclaim&nbsp;its territory occupied by Russian troops.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday (July 29) said that an initiative by African countries could be a basis for peace with Ukraine but the attacks by Ukrainian forces made it hard to realise, hours before a Ukrainian drone attack took place on Moscow. Putin was addressing a press conference after holding a meeting with African leaders in St Petersburg and listening to their calls for Moscow to take steps and go ahead with their plan. "There are provisions of this peace initiative that are being implemented. But there are things that are difficult or impossible to implement,” he said. Putin stated that the ceasefire was one of the points in the African initiative. "But the Ukrainian army is on the offensive, they are attacking, they are implementing a large-scale strategic offensive operation... We cannot cease fire when we are under attack,” he said. ALSO READ | Ukraine intensifying attacks on frontline, Russian forces inflicted heavy losses, claims Putin Answering the question of initiating peace talks, Putin said, "We did not reject them... In order for this process to begin, there needs to be agreement on both sides." Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow Two office blocks were damaged and one person was injured in a night-time Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow, said the mayor of the Russian capital early on Sunday (July 30), adding that no one suffered injuries. "Ukrainian drones attacked tonight. The facades of two city office towers were slightly damaged. There are no victims or injured," posted Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin on Telegram. "The glazing was shattered as a result of the blast at the level of fifth and sixth floors of the 50-story building on Presnenskaya embankment," an official said, as reported by TASS. Footage of a drone explosion over a skyscraper in Moscow City pic.twitter.com/aVC1auiOvz — Spriter Team (@SpriterTeam) July 30, 2023 × Russia's defence ministry, confirming that three Ukrainian drones were downed by them, said on Telegram, "The Kyiv regime's attempted terrorist attack with unmanned aerial vehicles on objects in the city of Moscow was thwarted," adding that one was shot down and two, "suppressed by electronic warfare", crashed into a building complex. Moscow's Vnukovo International Airport was shut down to traffic on Sunday, a Russian state news agency report said. "The capital's Vnukovo airport is closed for departures and arrivals, flights are redirected to other airports. This was reported by the aviation services,” TASS reported. WATCH | Russia-Africa summit: Putin promises free grain to African nations Meanwhile, on the Ukrainian side, one civilian was killed in a Russian missile attack on Saturday (July 29) in the northeast Ukrainian city of Sumy, informed the national police, further stating that five people were injured in the strike on an education centre. "On the evening of July 29, an enemy missile hit an educational institution. Law enforcement officers are working at the scene, recording the effects," the force shared on Telegram, confirming the initial toll as "at least one civilian dead and five injured". "Police, rescue workers and medics are on the scene", it stated. Saudi invites developing nations for Ukraine peace talks The leading developing nations have been invited by Saudi Arabia to hold the meeting in a bid to win their backing for Ukraine peace talks. Senior government officials from China, Brazil, South Africa and India have been invited for talks in Jeddah which will be held for two days. The meeting will aim at persuading countries from South America, Africa and south-east Asia to support the Ukrainian peace plan which calls for an end to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war by letting Kyiv reclaim its territory occupied by Russian troops. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Amid Ukrainian drone attack in Moscow, Putin claims Russia is not against peace talks

<p>Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, on Saturday (July 29) said that a group of a hundred soldiers from Russia’s Wagner mercenary group have moved closer to the Belarusian city of Grodno near the Polish border. This comes weeks after Poland’s defence minister said that they are moving more than 1,000 troops to the east of the country amid concerns over the presence of Wagner fighters in the neighbouring country.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Polish PM’s warning</strong></h2>

<p>Morawiecki warned that the Wagner fighters – who are living in exile in Belarus after their chief Yevgeny Prigozhin aborted a mutiny in Russia – may engage in what Poland describes as “hybrid warfare,” where the Russian group's fighters&nbsp;in Belarus could facilitate illegal migration from Belarus, said the Polish PM. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The fighters could pose as migrants from the city of Grodno, close to the Polish and Lithuanian borders, and enter the European Union, said Morawiecki. Poland, a former Warsaw Pact member and now a member of the United States-led NATO military alliance, has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian invasion in February 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Warsaw has also expressed concerns about the possible spillover of the Ukraine war onto its territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-to-spread-poland-to-move-soldiers-to-east-due-to-wagner-risks-618116">Will Ukraine war expand to other regions? Poland moving troops over Wagner risk from Belarus</a></strong></p>

<p>“The situation is getting increasingly dangerous...Most likely they (the Wagner personnel) will be disguised as the Belarusian border guard and help illegal migrants get to the Polish territory (and) destabilise Poland,” said Morawiecki&nbsp;during a press conference in western Poland.</p>

<p>“This is certainly a step towards a further hybrid attack on Polish territory,” he added. Notably, the Polish PM did not give a source of information that Wagner fighters were moving closer to Grodno.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, given the location of the city, it may be potentially significant as it is near the Suwalki Gap, a strategic strip of 95 kilometres of land along the Polish-Lithuanian border, which divides Belarus, Russia’s ally, from the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad.</p>

<p>According to Morawiecki, there have been 16,000 attempts to cross the border between Belarus and Poland&nbsp;so far this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-fighters-reached-belarus-confirm-ukraine-poland-616171">Wagner fighters have reached Belarus, confirm Ukraine, Poland</a></strong></p>

<p>The statement by the Polish PM also comes after Warsaw’s interior minister, on Thursday, said Poland, Lithuania and Latvia could jointly decide to shut their borders with Belarus if there are any incidents involving the Wagner group near their borders.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Poland ramps up border security</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-official-seemingly-claims-responsibility-for-crimea-bridge-blast-613657">month</a>, Polish Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak said, “Over 1,000 soldiers and almost 200 units of equipment from the 12th and 17th Mechanized Brigades are starting to move to the east of the country.” This was&nbsp;amid concerns over the presence of Wagner&nbsp;fighters in neighbouring Belarus.</p>

<p>He added, “This is a demonstration of our readiness to respond to attempts at destabilisation near the border of our country.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, on Saturday (July 29) said that a group of a hundred soldiers from Russia’s Wagner mercenary group have moved closer to the Belarusian city of Grodno near the Polish border.

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, on Saturday (July 29) said that a group of a hundred soldiers from Russia’s Wagner mercenary group have moved closer to the Belarusian city of Grodno near the Polish border. This comes weeks after Poland’s defence minister said that they are moving more than 1,000 troops to the east of the country amid concerns over the presence of Wagner fighters in the neighbouring country. Polish PM’s warning Morawiecki warned that the Wagner fighters – who are living in exile in Belarus after their chief Yevgeny Prigozhin aborted a mutiny in Russia – may engage in what Poland describes as “hybrid warfare,” where the Russian group's fighters in Belarus could facilitate illegal migration from Belarus, said the Polish PM. The fighters could pose as migrants from the city of Grodno, close to the Polish and Lithuanian borders, and enter the European Union, said Morawiecki. Poland, a former Warsaw Pact member and now a member of the United States-led NATO military alliance, has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian invasion in February 2022. However, Warsaw has also expressed concerns about the possible spillover of the Ukraine war onto its territory. ALSO READ | Will Ukraine war expand to other regions? Poland moving troops over Wagner risk from Belarus “The situation is getting increasingly dangerous...Most likely they (the Wagner personnel) will be disguised as the Belarusian border guard and help illegal migrants get to the Polish territory (and) destabilise Poland,” said Morawiecki during a press conference in western Poland. “This is certainly a step towards a further hybrid attack on Polish territory,” he added. Notably, the Polish PM did not give a source of information that Wagner fighters were moving closer to Grodno. However, given the location of the city, it may be potentially significant as it is near the Suwalki Gap, a strategic strip of 95 kilometres of land along the Polish-Lithuanian border, which divides Belarus, Russia’s ally, from the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad. According to Morawiecki, there have been 16,000 attempts to cross the border between Belarus and Poland so far this year. ALSO READ | Wagner fighters have reached Belarus, confirm Ukraine, Poland The statement by the Polish PM also comes after Warsaw’s interior minister, on Thursday, said Poland, Lithuania and Latvia could jointly decide to shut their borders with Belarus if there are any incidents involving the Wagner group near their borders. Poland ramps up border security Earlier this month, Polish Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak said, “Over 1,000 soldiers and almost 200 units of equipment from the 12th and 17th Mechanized Brigades are starting to move to the east of the country.” This was amid concerns over the presence of Wagner fighters in neighbouring Belarus. He added, “This is a demonstration of our readiness to respond to attempts at destabilisation near the border of our country.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Wagner fighters move closer to Poland border, could pose as migrants to enter EU, warns Polish PM

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Russia pounds Ukrainian ports along the Danube River & Black Sea

After trying to find refuge in Belarus it seems that the Wagner group will concentrate its troops in Africa. The leader of the Russian mercenary group Yevgeny Prigozhin has said that the group is not now ready to increase its presence on the African continent. On the other side, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed Qatar's prime minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani to Kyiv on Friday. The talks with Zelenskyy were fruitful and involved discussions on the safe functioning of the Black Sea grain corridor. It also deliberated upon Ukraine's ten-point peace plan.

Zelensky hosts Qatar Prime Minister | Prigozhin aims to deepen relations with Africa

<p>Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova revealed that Russia received around 30 peace initiatives aimed at resolving the conflict in Ukraine, reported TASS news agency. These initiatives came through both official and unofficial channels, Zakharova said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are grateful to everyone. There were many such initiatives. It seems to me that a month ago there were already about 30 [initiatives] that were made by public figures through state channels or even in some private way," the official noted on the sidelines of the second Russia-Africa summit in St. Petersburg.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She said that Russia remained open to negotiations and consistently engaged in dialogue with partners. "Even when we understood that they [negotiations] were unlikely to bring any added value, but we always gave such a chance to partners or the situation in general," the Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/melting-swiss-glacier-coughs-up-body-remains-of-hiker-who-went-missing-in-1986-620545">Melting Swiss glacier coughs up body remains of hiker who went missing in 1986</a></p>

<p>The spokeswoman said that in April 2022 Kyiv withdrew from the negotiations it had previously requested, leading to a halt in communication between the parties.</p>

<p>"Several rounds took place, and then they stopped responding to the documents and materials that we sent at their request... And in September, they themselves were legally banned from negotiating with our country," she added.</p>

<h2><strong>African peace initiative on Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>The Russian foreign ministry expressed appreciation for African countries' attempts to help stabilise the situation in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/asian-masalanomics-for-spice-trade-spiced-up-in-vietnam-2000-years-ago-reveals-study-620534">Asian masalanomics for spice trade spiced up in Vietnam 2000 years ago, reveals study</a></p>

<p>"We are extremely grateful to our African friends for the fact that they really - not in words, but in deeds - value peace and want to do everything in their power, even without being in any way participants in all this long-term drama, but, indeed, having open hearts and understanding what this can globally lead to and is already leading to. [We are grateful] for their attempt to do everything in their power or to somehow provide intermediary services, efforts to stabilize the situation. Once again, we never get tired of repeating the words gratitude," the diplomat concluded.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin 'carefully' examining proposals</strong></h2>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin said Friday that Moscow is "carefully" examining African proposals on Ukraine conflict resolution.&nbsp;"We respect your initiatives and we are examining them carefully," Putin said on the second day of a Russia-Africa summit.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Rains soak Northern China as Doksuri makes its way to Beijing</strong></p>

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<p>"Previous mediation initiatives were monopolised by so-called advanced democracies. Now Africa too is ready to help resolve problems that appear to be outside of its area of priorities," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova revealed that Russia received around 30 peace initiatives aimed at resolving the conflict in Ukraine, reported TASS news agency.

Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova revealed that Russia received around 30 peace initiatives aimed at resolving the conflict in Ukraine, reported TASS news agency. These initiatives came through both official and unofficial channels, Zakharova said. "We are grateful to everyone. There were many such initiatives. It seems to me that a month ago there were already about 30 [initiatives] that were made by public figures through state channels or even in some private way," the official noted on the sidelines of the second Russia-Africa summit in St. Petersburg. She said that Russia remained open to negotiations and consistently engaged in dialogue with partners. "Even when we understood that they [negotiations] were unlikely to bring any added value, but we always gave such a chance to partners or the situation in general," the Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman said. Also Read | Melting Swiss glacier coughs up body remains of hiker who went missing in 1986 The spokeswoman said that in April 2022 Kyiv withdrew from the negotiations it had previously requested, leading to a halt in communication between the parties. "Several rounds took place, and then they stopped responding to the documents and materials that we sent at their request... And in September, they themselves were legally banned from negotiating with our country," she added. African peace initiative on Ukraine The Russian foreign ministry expressed appreciation for African countries' attempts to help stabilise the situation in Ukraine. Also Read | Asian masalanomics for spice trade spiced up in Vietnam 2000 years ago, reveals study "We are extremely grateful to our African friends for the fact that they really - not in words, but in deeds - value peace and want to do everything in their power, even without being in any way participants in all this long-term drama, but, indeed, having open hearts and understanding what this can globally lead to and is already leading to. [We are grateful] for their attempt to do everything in their power or to somehow provide intermediary services, efforts to stabilize the situation. Once again, we never get tired of repeating the words gratitude," the diplomat concluded. Putin 'carefully' examining proposals Russian President Vladimir Putin said Friday that Moscow is "carefully" examining African proposals on Ukraine conflict resolution. "We respect your initiatives and we are examining them carefully," Putin said on the second day of a Russia-Africa summit. Watch | Rains soak Northern China as Doksuri makes its way to Beijing × "Previous mediation initiatives were monopolised by so-called advanced democracies. Now Africa too is ready to help resolve problems that appear to be outside of its area of priorities," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Russia received 30 peace initiatives for Ukraine war truce from diverse channels

<p>An apartment block was hit by a Russian missile in the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Friday (July 29) in which nine people, including two children, were injured, said Kyiv officials.<br />
<br />
"Dnipro. Another terrorist attack," stated Sergiy Kruk, head of the Ukrainian State Emergency Service, on Telegram. "Currently, we know of 9 injured, including two children. Work continues,” he added. Earlier, Internal Affairs Minister Igor Klymenko reported "a Russian strike on a multistorey building in Dnipro", stating five people suffered injuries.<br />
<br />
Regional governor Serhiy Lysak, taking to the Telegram messaging app, said that the injured were being treated at home. Dnipro Mayor Borys Filatov said that this was the third time the SBU security service building was targeted by Russia. The two buildings were empty - the residential building had no one inside it because it just got completed and units were being put up for sale.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-forces-advance-southward-claim-they-have-recaptured-strategic-village-from-russians-620093">Ukrainian forces advance southward, claim they have recaptured strategic village from Russians</a></p>

<p>"There were two hits in Dnipro at about 8.30 p.m. (1730 GMT), Iskander missiles, according to preliminary information," said Lysak, while speaking on national television. "Part of the apartment building was destroyed. It was not even yet in use and there weren't many people there. A few people were trapped but are now out. The security service building is partially destroyed,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Russian missile terror again'</strong></h2>

<p>In the videos shared on social media, smoke was seen billowing from the residential building's top floors, which were&nbsp;badly damaged. President Volodymyr Zelensky said, "Dnipro. Friday evening. A high-rise building and the Security Service of Ukraine's building were hit. Russian missile terror again".<br />
<br />
"All necessary services are on site... We keep the situation under control. We will do everything to bring Russia to full punishment for aggression and terror against our people,” he added.<br />
<br />
On Friday, Russia said that two Ukrainian missiles were intercepted over its southern Rostov region, which was bordering Ukraine. It stated that the falling debris had wounded at least a dozen people in the city of Taganrog.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia is preparing to unleash an ‘avalanche’ of FPV Kamikaze drones on Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>Russian regions, which are located on the border with Ukraine, witness regular drone strikes and shelling since the military campaign was launched by Moscow in February last year but they have rarely been targeted by missiles.</p>

<h2><strong>Kyiv using North Korean rockets to attack Russian forces</strong></h2>

<p>According to a report published by the Financial Times on Saturday (July 29), Ukrainian soldiers have been observed using North Korean rockets which they claim were seized by a "friendly" country and then delivered to Ukraine.<br />
<br />
The defence ministry of Ukraine suggested that the arms were seized from the Russians, said the newspaper. North Korea has been accused by the United States of providing arms to Russia, which includes alleged shipments by sea, but no proof has so far emerged and no weapons of North Korea have been widely observed on the battlefields in Ukraine.<br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong><br />
<br />
(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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An apartment block was hit by a Russian missile in the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Friday (July 29) in which nine people, including two children, were injured, said Kyiv officials.

An apartment block was hit by a Russian missile in the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Friday (July 29) in which nine people, including two children, were injured, said Kyiv officials. "Dnipro. Another terrorist attack," stated Sergiy Kruk, head of the Ukrainian State Emergency Service, on Telegram. "Currently, we know of 9 injured, including two children. Work continues,” he added. Earlier, Internal Affairs Minister Igor Klymenko reported "a Russian strike on a multistorey building in Dnipro", stating five people suffered injuries. Regional governor Serhiy Lysak, taking to the Telegram messaging app, said that the injured were being treated at home. Dnipro Mayor Borys Filatov said that this was the third time the SBU security service building was targeted by Russia. The two buildings were empty - the residential building had no one inside it because it just got completed and units were being put up for sale. ALSO READ | Ukrainian forces advance southward, claim they have recaptured strategic village from Russians "There were two hits in Dnipro at about 8.30 p.m. (1730 GMT), Iskander missiles, according to preliminary information," said Lysak, while speaking on national television. "Part of the apartment building was destroyed. It was not even yet in use and there weren't many people there. A few people were trapped but are now out. The security service building is partially destroyed,” he added. 'Russian missile terror again' In the videos shared on social media, smoke was seen billowing from the residential building's top floors, which were badly damaged. President Volodymyr Zelensky said, "Dnipro. Friday evening. A high-rise building and the Security Service of Ukraine's building were hit. Russian missile terror again". "All necessary services are on site... We keep the situation under control. We will do everything to bring Russia to full punishment for aggression and terror against our people,” he added. On Friday, Russia said that two Ukrainian missiles were intercepted over its southern Rostov region, which was bordering Ukraine. It stated that the falling debris had wounded at least a dozen people in the city of Taganrog. WATCH | Russia is preparing to unleash an ‘avalanche’ of FPV Kamikaze drones on Ukraine Russian regions, which are located on the border with Ukraine, witness regular drone strikes and shelling since the military campaign was launched by Moscow in February last year but they have rarely been targeted by missiles. Kyiv using North Korean rockets to attack Russian forces According to a report published by the Financial Times on Saturday (July 29), Ukrainian soldiers have been observed using North Korean rockets which they claim were seized by a "friendly" country and then delivered to Ukraine. The defence ministry of Ukraine suggested that the arms were seized from the Russians, said the newspaper. North Korea has been accused by the United States of providing arms to Russia, which includes alleged shipments by sea, but no proof has so far emerged and no weapons of North Korea have been widely observed on the battlefields in Ukraine. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia strikes Dnipro amid reports of Ukraine using North Korean rockets

Overshadowed by the invasion of Ukraine, Russia’s recent and rapid militarisation of a group of islands claimed by japan has flown largely under the radar. With japan boosting military capabilities, the Russian Defence Ministry is considering a plan to cover the pacific ocean with formidable tu-160 strategic bombers. here's an analysis of the recent developments.

Russia moves to cover Pacific Ocean with feared Tu-160 bombers amid dispute with Japan | Details

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms: Indian couple their sell 8-month-old son to buy iPhone, do you Doomscroll at night? Beware! It is damaging your brain, Ukraine MP faces investigation for allegedly faking sick leave to holiday abroad.

Indian couple sell 8-month-old son to buy iPhone | Do you Doomscroll at night? | Trending On WION

Russia is leaving no stone unturned. The nation is all set to wreak havoc in Ukraine with its lethal drones. Russian has been targeting its foe with varied lethal arms and ammunition. The next in the row is 'FPV Kamikaze Drones'.

Russia is preparing to unleash an ‘avalanche’ of FPV Kamikaze drones on Ukraine

<p>The Russian military claimed to have shot down two Ukrainian missiles, on Friday (July 28), over the southwestern city of Taganrog near the border with Ukraine and a second one near the city of Azov. Over a dozen people were reported injured in Taganrog, said the regional governor, which Moscow claimed was after it intercepted a missile over the city.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Over a dozen injured in Taganrog</strong></h2>

<p>Addressing the incident, the Russian defence ministry said, it was the fragments of the Ukrainian missile that injured civilians and damaged buildings in the city of Taganrog.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Russian air defence equipment detected the Ukrainian missile and intercepted it in the air. The debris of the downed Ukrainian missile fell on the territory of Taganrog,” claimed the Russian military.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also alleged that the modified “Soviet-made S-200 missile”&nbsp;was aimed at the “residential infrastructure” of the city which is 40 kilometres from the border with Ukraine and home to around 250,000 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rostov region governor Vasily Golubev reported that some 12&nbsp;people suffered “light injuries” due to the blast which took place near the “Chekhov Garden” cafe in the centre of the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He had previously also said that the “rescuers are at the scene. There are no dead. There are several injured to whom ambulances have been dispatched.” Nine people have been taken to the hospital, said Golubev.&nbsp;One of the victims suffered a “traumatic brain injury,” and had surgery, he added.</p>

<p>The Russian official also said that the Taganrog Art Museum was the “epicentre of the explosion” which is a few hundred metres away from the cafe, and its roof and buildings were destroyed. Additionally, a nearby three-storey residential building was also damaged due to the explosion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Images and videos from the site of the blast show rubble and a damaged building with multiple emergency service personnel present. Ukraine is yet to comment on the incident and respond to the allegations but it rarely addresses attacks inside Russia or on Russian-controlled territory.</p>

<h2><strong>Second Ukrainian missile near Azov</strong></h2>

<p>It was not long after the first alleged attack was reported by the Russian military that it claimed to have shot another Ukrainian missile over the southwestern part of the country, but this time the debris reportedly fell in a “deserted area.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Russian air defence systems intercepted a Ukrainian missile near the city of Azov in the Rostov region. Fragments of the downed Ukrainian missile fell in a deserted area,” said the defence ministry.</p>

<h2><strong>Another blast reported in Samara</strong></h2>

<p>In a separate incident, Member of parliament Alexander Khinshtein reported an explosion at a refinery owned by Rosneft in Russia’s Samara region which appeared to have been caused by a bomb.</p>

<p>“Fortunately there is no serious damage and no casualties,” said the Russian official on Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian state media had earlier&nbsp;reported&nbsp;that a person believed to have been responsible for the Samara blast has been arrested.&nbsp;RIA news agency, citing Rosneft, said the incident occurred at a non-operational old building and that no one was injured and no equipment was damaged.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em><br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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The Russian military claimed to have shot down two Ukrainian missiles, on Friday (July 28), over the southwestern city of Taganrog near the border with Ukraine and a second one near the city of Azov.

The Russian military claimed to have shot down two Ukrainian missiles, on Friday (July 28), over the southwestern city of Taganrog near the border with Ukraine and a second one near the city of Azov. Over a dozen people were reported injured in Taganrog, said the regional governor, which Moscow claimed was after it intercepted a missile over the city. Over a dozen injured in Taganrog Addressing the incident, the Russian defence ministry said, it was the fragments of the Ukrainian missile that injured civilians and damaged buildings in the city of Taganrog. “Russian air defence equipment detected the Ukrainian missile and intercepted it in the air. The debris of the downed Ukrainian missile fell on the territory of Taganrog,” claimed the Russian military. It also alleged that the modified “Soviet-made S-200 missile” was aimed at the “residential infrastructure” of the city which is 40 kilometres from the border with Ukraine and home to around 250,000 people. Rostov region governor Vasily Golubev reported that some 12 people suffered “light injuries” due to the blast which took place near the “Chekhov Garden” cafe in the centre of the city. He had previously also said that the “rescuers are at the scene. There are no dead. There are several injured to whom ambulances have been dispatched.” Nine people have been taken to the hospital, said Golubev. One of the victims suffered a “traumatic brain injury,” and had surgery, he added. The Russian official also said that the Taganrog Art Museum was the “epicentre of the explosion” which is a few hundred metres away from the cafe, and its roof and buildings were destroyed. Additionally, a nearby three-storey residential building was also damaged due to the explosion. Images and videos from the site of the blast show rubble and a damaged building with multiple emergency service personnel present. Ukraine is yet to comment on the incident and respond to the allegations but it rarely addresses attacks inside Russia or on Russian-controlled territory. Second Ukrainian missile near Azov It was not long after the first alleged attack was reported by the Russian military that it claimed to have shot another Ukrainian missile over the southwestern part of the country, but this time the debris reportedly fell in a “deserted area.” “Russian air defence systems intercepted a Ukrainian missile near the city of Azov in the Rostov region. Fragments of the downed Ukrainian missile fell in a deserted area,” said the defence ministry. Another blast reported in Samara In a separate incident, Member of parliament Alexander Khinshtein reported an explosion at a refinery owned by Rosneft in Russia’s Samara region which appeared to have been caused by a bomb. “Fortunately there is no serious damage and no casualties,” said the Russian official on Telegram. Russian state media had earlier reported that a person believed to have been responsible for the Samara blast has been arrested. RIA news agency, citing Rosneft, said the incident occurred at a non-operational old building and that no one was injured and no equipment was damaged. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Moscow claims to have shot down Ukrainian missiles over Russian cities Taganrog, Azov

Russian military airfields have been targeted in Ukraine. Thank you, and indeed, that is exactly what is occurring. Shivan us all the specifics, let's go on. Russia is waging a full-scale war against Ukraine, and this time they are also attacking the facilities of storage for Western munitions and launching an attack on the Kirsch bridge.

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin's payback for Crimea bridge attack

<p>Ukrainian forces are continuing their counteroffensive against Russian occupation in the southeast, with recent progress made in the capture of the village of Staromaiorske.</p>

<p>This campaign is strategically focused on securing villages in the southward push and areas around the city of Bakhmut, which was taken by Russian forces in May following months of intense battles.</p>

<p>Ukrainian officials reported steady progress, while Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted that Ukrainian attacks have been unsuccessful, with Moscow's forces inflicting significant losses on their opponents, as reported by Reuters.</p>

<p>The counteroffensive has drawn attention from the international community, and reports indicate that Ukraine has deployed additional Western-trained troops to aid in the efforts. The situation remains tense as both sides engage in ongoing battles to gain control over strategic locations in the region.</p>

<p>Despite Ukraine's gains in some areas, Russia still holds about 20 per cent&nbsp;of Ukraine's land. To counter the occupation and strengthen wildlife conservation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;announced the recapture of Staromaiorske in a video posted on his Telegram channel. He praised the efforts of the 35th brigade and the 'Ariy' territorial defence unit, highlighting their contribution to the counteroffensive.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukrainian MP goes on a holiday amid counteroffensive</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Targeting strategic locations</strong></h2>

<p>The primary objective of the Ukrainian forces is to drive a wedge through Russian defensive positions and sever the land bridge linking the occupied areas in the east and Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014.</p>

<p>Ukrainian military analyst Oleksandr Kovalenko emphasised the significance of capturing the village of Staromlynivka, which serves as a stronghold for Russian occupiers and is crucial for the success of the counteroffensive in this region.</p>

<p>President Zelensky&nbsp;acknowledged the slow progress of the counteroffensive but cautioned against unrealistic expectations, urging patience and determination for successful results. He toured various regions, including Dnipro, Odesa, and Ochakiv, where he assessed damage from Russian airstrikes and frequent shelling.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-japan-looking-to-supply-lethal-arms-to-ukraine-619770">Is Japan looking to supply lethal arms to Ukraine?</a></p>

<p>As the counteroffensive unfolds, the international community closely monitors the situation. Reports suggest that the conflict is entering a new phase, with Ukraine making calculated moves while facing resistance from Russian forces.</p>

<p>In the east, Russia's defence ministry claims to have repelled Ukrainian attacks around the village of Klishchiivka, situated near Bakhmut and north of Robotyne in the Zaporizhzhia region. Ukrainian Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar writes on Telegram that Ukrainian forces are gradually moving forward near Bakhmut and successfully fending off Russian attacks on two northern fronts near Kupiansk and Lyman.</p>

<p>The conflict continues to cause uncertainty and tension in the region, with the outcome remaining uncertain. Both sides are determined to achieve their objectives, and the world watches closely as the situation unfolds in this ongoing struggle for territorial control and preservation of natural heritage.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

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Ukrainian forces are continuing their counteroffensive against Russian occupation in the southeast, with recent progress made in the capture of the village of Staromaiorske.

Ukrainian forces are continuing their counteroffensive against Russian occupation in the southeast, with recent progress made in the capture of the village of Staromaiorske. This campaign is strategically focused on securing villages in the southward push and areas around the city of Bakhmut, which was taken by Russian forces in May following months of intense battles. Ukrainian officials reported steady progress, while Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted that Ukrainian attacks have been unsuccessful, with Moscow's forces inflicting significant losses on their opponents, as reported by Reuters. The counteroffensive has drawn attention from the international community, and reports indicate that Ukraine has deployed additional Western-trained troops to aid in the efforts. The situation remains tense as both sides engage in ongoing battles to gain control over strategic locations in the region. Despite Ukraine's gains in some areas, Russia still holds about 20 per cent of Ukraine's land. To counter the occupation and strengthen wildlife conservation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the recapture of Staromaiorske in a video posted on his Telegram channel. He praised the efforts of the 35th brigade and the 'Ariy' territorial defence unit, highlighting their contribution to the counteroffensive. Also watch | Gravitas: Ukrainian MP goes on a holiday amid counteroffensive Targeting strategic locations The primary objective of the Ukrainian forces is to drive a wedge through Russian defensive positions and sever the land bridge linking the occupied areas in the east and Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014. Ukrainian military analyst Oleksandr Kovalenko emphasised the significance of capturing the village of Staromlynivka, which serves as a stronghold for Russian occupiers and is crucial for the success of the counteroffensive in this region. President Zelensky acknowledged the slow progress of the counteroffensive but cautioned against unrealistic expectations, urging patience and determination for successful results. He toured various regions, including Dnipro, Odesa, and Ochakiv, where he assessed damage from Russian airstrikes and frequent shelling. Also read | Is Japan looking to supply lethal arms to Ukraine? As the counteroffensive unfolds, the international community closely monitors the situation. Reports suggest that the conflict is entering a new phase, with Ukraine making calculated moves while facing resistance from Russian forces. In the east, Russia's defence ministry claims to have repelled Ukrainian attacks around the village of Klishchiivka, situated near Bakhmut and north of Robotyne in the Zaporizhzhia region. Ukrainian Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar writes on Telegram that Ukrainian forces are gradually moving forward near Bakhmut and successfully fending off Russian attacks on two northern fronts near Kupiansk and Lyman. The conflict continues to cause uncertainty and tension in the region, with the outcome remaining uncertain. Both sides are determined to achieve their objectives, and the world watches closely as the situation unfolds in this ongoing struggle for territorial control and preservation of natural heritage. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ukrainian forces advance southward, claim they have recaptured strategic village from Russians

Former Ukrainian MP Yuriy Aristov is under investigation for faking a sick leave and going on a holiday to the Maldives during Ukraine's counteroffensive. How did Aristov manage a holiday amid war?

Gravitas: Ukrainian MP goes on a holiday amid counteroffensive

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (July 26) claimed that Ukraine had intensified attacks on the frontline in the last few days. Reuters reported that a Ukrainian official said the country's forces are making slow but steady progress in the battlefield.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday, three different media outlets cited unnamed US officials as saying Kyiv had launched a new phase of its ambitious counteroffensive which seeks to eject Russian troops from nearly 20% of Ukrainian land still under occupation.</p>

<p>Asked about these reports, Yuriy Sak, an adviser to Ukraine's defence minister, told Reuters that "there is nothing new" happening at front lines. "In the south, we are moving forward slowly but surely," he said.</p>

<p>As he interacted with Russian television, Putin claimed that every Ukrainian attack had been beaten back. He also said that Russian forces had inflicted significant losses on their opponents.</p>

<p>Defence ministries of both countries appeared to offer contradicting reports of fighting.</p>

<p>Russian defence ministry said that Russian forces had repelled Ukrainian attacks around the village of Klishchiivka, as per reports by Russian news agency TASS. The village is near Bakhmut.</p>

<p>However, Hannah Maliar, Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister wrote on Telegram that Ukraine's troops were "gradually moving forward" near Bakhmut. She claimed that the fight was ongoing near Klischiivka, Kudriumivka and Andriivka.</p>

<p>She claimed that Ukrainian forces beat back Russian attacks near Kupiansk and Lyman.</p>

<h2><strong>The counteroffensive</strong></h2>

<p>Till now, Ukraine's counteroffensive has moved slowly. Ukraine has only been able to recapture few hundred square kilometres. It is just a tiny fraction of the territory which is still under Russian control.</p>

<p>However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed "very good results" on the battlefield in an address on Tuesday evening, promising to give details later.</p>

<p>Ukraine has enjoyed success in a few areas. One of these is the Mokri Yaly river in southeastern Ukraine. In this area, the Ukrainian troops have captured several settlements. The forces are now heading towards the village of Staromaiorske. The village is currently held by Russia.</p>

<p>Aleksandr Khodakovsky, an influential Moscow-backed separatist commander in eastern Ukraine, posted an angry message on his Telegram channel on Wednesday complaining about heavy shelling of Staromaiorske over several days followed by a Ukrainian assault which had made some gains.</p>

<p>Sak said there was fighting ongoing near Staromaiorske but the village was "not yet" under Ukrainian control.<br />
<br />
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (July 26) claimed that Ukraine had intensified attacks on the frontline in the last few days. Reuters reported that a Ukrainian official said the country's forces are making slow but steady progress in the battlefield.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (July 26) claimed that Ukraine had intensified attacks on the frontline in the last few days. Reuters reported that a Ukrainian official said the country's forces are making slow but steady progress in the battlefield. On Wednesday, three different media outlets cited unnamed US officials as saying Kyiv had launched a new phase of its ambitious counteroffensive which seeks to eject Russian troops from nearly 20% of Ukrainian land still under occupation. Asked about these reports, Yuriy Sak, an adviser to Ukraine's defence minister, told Reuters that "there is nothing new" happening at front lines. "In the south, we are moving forward slowly but surely," he said. As he interacted with Russian television, Putin claimed that every Ukrainian attack had been beaten back. He also said that Russian forces had inflicted significant losses on their opponents. Defence ministries of both countries appeared to offer contradicting reports of fighting. Russian defence ministry said that Russian forces had repelled Ukrainian attacks around the village of Klishchiivka, as per reports by Russian news agency TASS. The village is near Bakhmut. However, Hannah Maliar, Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister wrote on Telegram that Ukraine's troops were "gradually moving forward" near Bakhmut. She claimed that the fight was ongoing near Klischiivka, Kudriumivka and Andriivka. She claimed that Ukrainian forces beat back Russian attacks near Kupiansk and Lyman. The counteroffensive Till now, Ukraine's counteroffensive has moved slowly. Ukraine has only been able to recapture few hundred square kilometres. It is just a tiny fraction of the territory which is still under Russian control. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed "very good results" on the battlefield in an address on Tuesday evening, promising to give details later. Ukraine has enjoyed success in a few areas. One of these is the Mokri Yaly river in southeastern Ukraine. In this area, the Ukrainian troops have captured several settlements. The forces are now heading towards the village of Staromaiorske. The village is currently held by Russia. Aleksandr Khodakovsky, an influential Moscow-backed separatist commander in eastern Ukraine, posted an angry message on his Telegram channel on Wednesday complaining about heavy shelling of Staromaiorske over several days followed by a Ukrainian assault which had made some gains. Sak said there was fighting ongoing near Staromaiorske but the village was "not yet" under Ukrainian control. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine intensifying attacks on frontline, Russian forces inflicted heavy losses, claims Putin

There have been a list of Russian generals that have been dismissed by Putin, experts say that it is a sign that generals are judged more on their loyalty than their performance on the battlefield meanwhile Ukrainian president Volodymr Zelensky also sacked one of its commanders amidst corruption scandals.

Russian commanders dismissed by Putin

Not only is Kyiv hampered by a shortage of ammunition but some of the tactics that are now being deployed by the Russians have created serious problems. In the past week, Russia has started to use its anti-ship missiles, such as the p-800 Onyx to strike land targets inside Ukraine. And this has created all kinds of problems for the Ukrainian anti-air defence systems. Yuri Ihnat, the spokesperson of the Ukrainian air force has gone on record to state that Ukraine simply hasn't got the means to guard itself against missiles like the Onyx along its coast. So why is Ukraine getting outgunned at its ports in this stage of the war? Mohammed Saleh gets you the details.

Russia unleashes its deadly supersonic onyx missiles on Ukraine

Is Belarus joining the Russia-Ukraine War? Belarus has decided to 'arm' & 'train' its ministry of emergency situations. This comes after a video showed Wagner mercenaries training Belarusian troops near the Polish border. Priyanka Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Is Belarus joining the Russia-Ukraine war?

Ukrainian marines trained on Monday (July 24) to use US-provided weapons during drills in Donetsk region.

Ukrainian troops train with US-provided weapons in Donetsk region

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<p>Russia condemned the Ukrainian drone attack on non-residential buildings in the capital city of Moscow on Monday (July 24) and vowed retaliatory measures, after Kyiv claimed responsibility for the strikes.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We regard what happened as another use of terrorist methods by the military-political leadership of Ukraine, intimidation of the civilian population. These attacks had no military meaning,” Russia's foreign ministry was quoted as saying by CNN.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The Russian side reserves the right to take tough retaliatory measures,” the ministry said, adding that the Investigative Committee of Russia had opened criminal cases in response to these incidents and that those involved would be brought to justice.</p>

<p>The ministry also urged "international organisations" to give the attack a "proper assessment".&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-talks-of-retaliation-after-ukrainian-drone-strike-near-moscow-army-hq-619008" target="_blank"><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Russia talks of retaliation after 'Ukrainian drone strike' near Moscow army HQ</strong></a></p>

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<p>On Monday, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin took to Telegram to first break the news that "drone strikes" had hit two "non-residential buildings" in the Russian capital at night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today around 4 am (0100 GMT), drone strikes on two non-residential buildings were reported. There is no serious destruction or casualties," he wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Russian news agency TASS, one of the drones fell in Komsomolsky Prospekt, close to Russia's defence ministry while another hit a business centre on Likhacheva Street, near one of the main ring roads.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moscow managed to thwart the attacks from causing major human and property damage but termed the strikes as a 'terrorist act'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A Kyiv regime attempt to carry out a terrorist act using two drones on objects on the territory of the city of Moscow was stopped," Russia's defence ministry said.</p>

<p>"Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties."</p>

<h2><strong>Kyiv accepts responsibility&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Later in the day, the Ukrainian side accepted responsibility for the attack, saying there might be more such strikes in the future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Drones attacked the orc (Russian) capital and Crimea last night. Electronic warfare and air defence are becoming less and less capable of protecting the occupiers' skies,” said Mykhailo Fedorov, the Ukrainian minister of digital transformation, in a Telegram post on Monday.</p>

<p>“Whatever happens, there will be more of it,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Previous instances of drone attacks&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first instance when Russia has accused Ukraine of targetting the capital city using drones. In May, Kremlin claimed it was attacked by Ukrainian drones which it deemed was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drone-strikes-hit-two-buildings-in-moscow-russia-calls-it-a-terrorist-act-618735" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia calls it a 'terrorist act'</strong></a></p>

<p>At the time, Kremlin described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and an "assassination attempt on the president of Russia".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russia condemned the Ukrainian drone attack on non-residential buildings in the capital city of Moscow on Monday (July 24) and vowed retaliatory measures, after Kyiv claimed responsibility for the strikes.

Russia condemned the Ukrainian drone attack on non-residential buildings in the capital city of Moscow on Monday (July 24) and vowed retaliatory measures, after Kyiv claimed responsibility for the strikes. “We regard what happened as another use of terrorist methods by the military-political leadership of Ukraine, intimidation of the civilian population. These attacks had no military meaning,” Russia's foreign ministry was quoted as saying by CNN. “The Russian side reserves the right to take tough retaliatory measures,” the ministry said, adding that the Investigative Committee of Russia had opened criminal cases in response to these incidents and that those involved would be brought to justice. The ministry also urged "international organisations" to give the attack a "proper assessment". Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Russia talks of retaliation after 'Ukrainian drone strike' near Moscow army HQ × On Monday, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin took to Telegram to first break the news that "drone strikes" had hit two "non-residential buildings" in the Russian capital at night. "Today around 4 am (0100 GMT), drone strikes on two non-residential buildings were reported. There is no serious destruction or casualties," he wrote. According to Russian news agency TASS, one of the drones fell in Komsomolsky Prospekt, close to Russia's defence ministry while another hit a business centre on Likhacheva Street, near one of the main ring roads. Moscow managed to thwart the attacks from causing major human and property damage but termed the strikes as a 'terrorist act'. "A Kyiv regime attempt to carry out a terrorist act using two drones on objects on the territory of the city of Moscow was stopped," Russia's defence ministry said. "Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties." Kyiv accepts responsibility Later in the day, the Ukrainian side accepted responsibility for the attack, saying there might be more such strikes in the future. “Drones attacked the orc (Russian) capital and Crimea last night. Electronic warfare and air defence are becoming less and less capable of protecting the occupiers' skies,” said Mykhailo Fedorov, the Ukrainian minister of digital transformation, in a Telegram post on Monday. “Whatever happens, there will be more of it,” he added. Previous instances of drone attacks This is not the first instance when Russia has accused Ukraine of targetting the capital city using drones. In May, Kremlin claimed it was attacked by Ukrainian drones which it deemed was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life. Also read | Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia calls it a 'terrorist act' At the time, Kremlin described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and an "assassination attempt on the president of Russia". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia vows 'retaliatory' action after Kyiv's drones  strike near defence HQ in Moscow

<p>Ukraine claimed on Monday (July 24) that its military has recaptured more than 16 square kilometres (six square miles) territory from Russian forces in the south and east of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"During the week... the liberated area (in the south) increased by 12.6 square kilometres," said Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister Ganna Malyar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Malyar was speaking in televised remarks. She added that Ukrainian troops had wrested another four square kilometres in the east.</p>

<p>From last month, Ukraine has begun its highly anticipated counteroffensive against Russian troops.</p>

<p>In her televised remarks on Monday, Malyar also said that Russian forces carried out "assault" in the Kupyansk area in eastern Kharkiv region, &nbsp;"aiming to push our units beyond the Oskil river".</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russian strike ‘severely damages’ historic Odesa cathedral, leaves one dead</strong></p>

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<p>Russia attacked Ukraine in February last year. After sustained initial gains, Russian forces had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian attacks.</p>

<p>The western alliance led by the United States has poured in billions of dollars as humanitarian as well as military help for Ukraine. Weapons have also been provided to Ukraine. It is widely held that Ukraine is in a slightly superior position and that a full scale counteroffensive would lead to Russian forces being pushed back.</p>

<p>However, the counteroffensive has not, at least till now, been able to yield spectacular results for Ukraine as it was popularly expected.</p>

<h2><strong>50% Ukraine territory re-captured: Blinken</strong></h2>

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken claimed on Sunday (July 23) that Ukraine has recaptured 50 per cent of the territory lost to Russians.</p>

<p>"It's already taken back about 50% of what was initially seized," Blinken said in an interview with CNN.</p>

<p>"These are still relatively early days of the counteroffensive. It is tough," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian drones hit Moscow buildings&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Russian officials said on Monday that Ukrainian drones hit two buildings in Moscow. The officials said that Russia neutralised the drones and no casualties were reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the drones crashed close to the defence ministry in the centre of the Russian capital, while the other hit an office building in southern Moscow. &nbsp;AFP said its reporters saw a two-storey building with damaged roof.</p>

<p>The attacks came a day after Ukraine vowed to "retaliate" for a Russian missile attack on the port of Odesa.</p>

<p>Russian defence ministry dubbed the drone attack a "terrorist act".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties," it said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Sergei Sobyanin, Mayor of Moscow, the drone strikes took place around 4 am local time (0100 GMT).</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drone-strikes-hit-two-buildings-in-moscow-russia-calls-it-a-terrorist-act-618735">Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia calls it a 'terrorist act'</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, a Moscow-installed governor in Crimea said Russia shot down 11 Ukrainian drones.</p>

<p>Sergei Aksyonov, the governor, said an ammunition depot was "hit" and a house was "damaged". He did not provide more details. Aksyonov said villages near the depot were being evacuated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014. Ukraine has been targeting the peninsula throughout Moscow's offensive. But Crimea has come under more intense attacks in recent weeks. Ukraine has repeatedly maintained that it plans to take back Crimea.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><b><i>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></b></p>

<p><em>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</em></p>

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Ukraine claimed on Monday (July 24) that its military has recaptured more than 16 square kilometres (six square miles) territory from Russian forces in the south and east of the country.

Ukraine claimed on Monday (July 24) that its military has recaptured more than 16 square kilometres (six square miles) territory from Russian forces in the south and east of the country. "During the week... the liberated area (in the south) increased by 12.6 square kilometres," said Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister Ganna Malyar. Malyar was speaking in televised remarks. She added that Ukrainian troops had wrested another four square kilometres in the east. From last month, Ukraine has begun its highly anticipated counteroffensive against Russian troops. In her televised remarks on Monday, Malyar also said that Russian forces carried out "assault" in the Kupyansk area in eastern Kharkiv region, "aiming to push our units beyond the Oskil river". Watch | Russian strike ‘severely damages’ historic Odesa cathedral, leaves one dead × Russia attacked Ukraine in February last year. After sustained initial gains, Russian forces had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian attacks. The western alliance led by the United States has poured in billions of dollars as humanitarian as well as military help for Ukraine. Weapons have also been provided to Ukraine. It is widely held that Ukraine is in a slightly superior position and that a full scale counteroffensive would lead to Russian forces being pushed back. However, the counteroffensive has not, at least till now, been able to yield spectacular results for Ukraine as it was popularly expected. 50% Ukraine territory re-captured: Blinken US Secretary of State Antony Blinken claimed on Sunday (July 23) that Ukraine has recaptured 50 per cent of the territory lost to Russians. "It's already taken back about 50% of what was initially seized," Blinken said in an interview with CNN. "These are still relatively early days of the counteroffensive. It is tough," he said. Ukrainian drones hit Moscow buildings Russian officials said on Monday that Ukrainian drones hit two buildings in Moscow. The officials said that Russia neutralised the drones and no casualties were reported. One of the drones crashed close to the defence ministry in the centre of the Russian capital, while the other hit an office building in southern Moscow. AFP said its reporters saw a two-storey building with damaged roof. The attacks came a day after Ukraine vowed to "retaliate" for a Russian missile attack on the port of Odesa. Russian defence ministry dubbed the drone attack a "terrorist act". "Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties," it said. According to Sergei Sobyanin, Mayor of Moscow, the drone strikes took place around 4 am local time (0100 GMT). Also Read | Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia calls it a 'terrorist act' Meanwhile, a Moscow-installed governor in Crimea said Russia shot down 11 Ukrainian drones. Sergei Aksyonov, the governor, said an ammunition depot was "hit" and a house was "damaged". He did not provide more details. Aksyonov said villages near the depot were being evacuated. Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014. Ukraine has been targeting the peninsula throughout Moscow's offensive. But Crimea has come under more intense attacks in recent weeks. Ukraine has repeatedly maintained that it plans to take back Crimea. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine re-captured 16 sq km of territory from Russia last week, claims deputy defence minister

Russia has been secretly developing this star-wars weapon capable of destroying anything that flies, even in space. On President Vladimir Putin’s orders, Russia has developed and successfully tested the S-550 strategic missile defence system. It's one of the most covert weapons development programme ever conducted by Moscow. What are the capabilities of the S-550? What is Russia preparing for? And Should India buy the S-550 system? Watch Game Plan with Shivan Chanana.

Russia’s star-wars weapon can hunt anything that flies | S-550 for India?

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: In a meeting held on July 24, 2023, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken commended the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) for its resilience and dedication in the face of obstructionism from Russia. Speaking alongside OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid in Washington, D.C., Blinken emphasized the crucial role of the OSCE in continuing its work and missions despite challenges posed by Russia.

Blinken praises 'unified support' for Ukraine in meeting with OSCE's Schmid

<p>The ongoing escalation between Russia and Ukraine appears to have intensified. Moscow Mayor&nbsp;Sergei Sobyanin in the early hours of Monday (July 24) claimed that "drone strikes" hit two&nbsp;"non-residential buildings" in the Russian capital at night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today around 4 am (0100 GMT), drone strikes on two non-residential buildings were reported. There is no serious destruction or casualties."&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Russian news agency TASS, one of the drones fell in Komsomolsky Prospekt, close to Russia's defence ministry while another&nbsp;hit a business centre on Likhacheva Street, near one of the main ring roads.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The defence ministry released a statement in the aftermath and said it had "suppressed" the two Ukrainian drones, adding that it was a "terrorist act" on the Russian capital by Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A Kyiv regime attempt to carry out a terrorist act using two drones on objects on the territory of the city of Moscow was stopped," Russia's defence ministry said. "Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties."</p>

<p>A video of the business centre was posted by RIA Novosti which showed visible damage to the top of the multi-storey building. As a precautionary measure, the authorities sealed the road around it.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-budget-drones-in-ukraine-are-redefining-warfare-616102"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Budget drones in Ukraine are redefining warfare&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Previous instances of drone attacks&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first instance when Russia has accused Ukraine of targetting the capital city using drones. In May, Kremlin claimed it was&nbsp;attacked by Ukrainian drones&nbsp;which it deemed&nbsp;was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the time, Kremlin described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and an "assassination attempt on the president of Russia".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the press service said in a statement.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-alleged-ukrainian-drones-targeted-luxury-homes-of-putins-ex-wife-and-daughter-600180"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Did Ukrainian drones allegedly target luxury homes of Putin's ex-wife and daughters?</strong></a></p>

<p>"We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the president of the Russian Federation, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 parade," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, earlier this month, Moscow claimed that it shot down&nbsp;five Ukrainian drones that disrupted the functioning at the Vnukovo international airport.</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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The ongoing escalation between Russia and Ukraine appears to have intensified. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin in the early hours of Monday (July 24) claimed that "drone strikes" hit two "non-residential buildings" in the Russian capital at night.

The ongoing escalation between Russia and Ukraine appears to have intensified. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin in the early hours of Monday (July 24) claimed that "drone strikes" hit two "non-residential buildings" in the Russian capital at night. "Today around 4 am (0100 GMT), drone strikes on two non-residential buildings were reported. There is no serious destruction or casualties." According to Russian news agency TASS, one of the drones fell in Komsomolsky Prospekt, close to Russia's defence ministry while another hit a business centre on Likhacheva Street, near one of the main ring roads. The defence ministry released a statement in the aftermath and said it had "suppressed" the two Ukrainian drones, adding that it was a "terrorist act" on the Russian capital by Kyiv. "A Kyiv regime attempt to carry out a terrorist act using two drones on objects on the territory of the city of Moscow was stopped," Russia's defence ministry said. "Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties." A video of the business centre was posted by RIA Novosti which showed visible damage to the top of the multi-storey building. As a precautionary measure, the authorities sealed the road around it. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Budget drones in Ukraine are redefining warfare × Previous instances of drone attacks This is not the first instance when Russia has accused Ukraine of targetting the capital city using drones. In May, Kremlin claimed it was attacked by Ukrainian drones which it deemed was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life. At the time, Kremlin described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and an "assassination attempt on the president of Russia". "Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the press service said in a statement. Also read | Did Ukrainian drones allegedly target luxury homes of Putin's ex-wife and daughters? "We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the president of the Russian Federation, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 parade," it added. Similarly, earlier this month, Moscow claimed that it shot down five Ukrainian drones that disrupted the functioning at the Vnukovo international airport. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia calls it a 'terrorist act'

Russian missiles badly damaged a historic Orthodox cathedral in the southern Ukrainian port city of Odesa, sparking outrage and prompting President Zelensky to vow retaliation. The strikes killed at least one person and injured several others, Ukrainian officials said, the latest in a wave of attacks on Odesa.

Russian strike ‘severely damages’ historic Odesa cathedral, leaves one dead

After two drones damaged buildings in Moscow early on Monday, including one near the Defence Ministry's headquarters, in what it called a daring act of terrorism, Russia threatened to take strong punitive action against Ukraine. However, one drone struck close to the Moscow facility where the Russian military gives briefings on what it calls its "special military operation," underscoring the reach of such drones even if no one was harmed in the strike, which a senior Ukrainian official indicated will continue.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia talks of retaliation after 'Ukrainian drone strike' near Moscow army HQ

<p>In the spring of 2002, the NATO-Russia Council was established in Rome for ‘joint decision making and joint action’ between Brussels and Moscow. Two years before that, at the peak of Washington's global unipolarity, the Moscow-Washington ties were ‘off to a good start’ according to US President Bill Clinton. Then in the middle of 2002 came the beginning of the end of the ‘good start’ for Moscow-Washington ties.</p>

<p>The then US National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice asked her Russian counterpart how far Russia under Vladimir Putin was willing to integrate with NATO.</p>

<p>“Condi, forget it. We are not going to join an alliance where our vote is the same as a country like Latvia. You need not ask me that again,” Sergei Ivanov, secretary of the Russian Security Council told her.</p>

<p>&nbsp;<img alt="File photo Rice" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dbe46852-c7f8-4a33-92b1-c4c4fc1f29be" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-24T165311.233.png" /></p>

<p><em>File photo of former US National&nbsp;Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice and&nbsp;Sergei Ivanov, former secretary of the Russian Security Council | state.gov</em></p>

<p>The incident finds its mention in ‘A Bonfire of Illusions’, a chapter in a Putin biography by Philip Short, which describes how the rift between the US-led West became too deep to heal by the time he completed his second four-year term as Russian president in 2008.</p>

<h2><strong>NATO’s ‘worst-kept secret’</strong></h2>

<p>During the NATO summit, that concluded earlier this month in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky blasted the absence of a timetable for his country’s formal entry to the alliance as 'absurd'.</p>

<p><img alt="Zelensky during NATO summit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cc92baf1-248c-48d0-95db-7f3e5b7a1778" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-24T165820.361.png" /></p>

<p><em>Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attends a NATO leaders summit in Vilnius, Lithuania July 12, 2023 | Reuters</em></p>

<p>"We value our allies," Zelensky said but added that "Ukraine also deserves respect."</p>

<p>Not every nation has an equal weight in NATO. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The worst-kept secret of the US-led alliance is that an informal group consisting of the United States, Britain, France and Germany ‘pre-cook’ NATO decisions which the rest 27 members then endorse, Philip Short adds in 'Putin: Life and Times'.<img alt="French Premier and Foreign Secretary Pierre Mendès-France, West German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer, British Foreign Secretary Anthony Eden, and Secretary of State John Foster Dulles at Paris Conference, 23 October 1954." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="23041f85-342e-407f-aa71-ac9399bba11d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-24T170053.420.png" /></p>

<p><em>French Premier and Foreign Secretary Pierre Mendès-France, West German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer, British Foreign Secretary Anthony Eden, and Secretary of State John Foster Dulles at Paris Conference, 23 October 1954 | German Historical Institute</em></p>

<p>The informal group of NATO’s Big Four — US, France, Britain, and Germany — remains very much active during the ongoing war in Ukraine in boosting Kyiv’s war effort.</p>

<p>But the alliance has fallen short of accepting Ukraine as a fellow ally due to Zelensky’s inconsistencies towards joining NATO and Ukraine’s own fallacies.</p>

<p>An odd among NATO’s aces in Vilnius, while Zelensky appeared desperate to make Ukraine enter the alliance, he had called for "new institutions, new alliances" in his address to the US Congress in March 2023.</p>

<p>Furthermore, to meet one of the three main criteria for entry into NATO, a European nation must demonstrate a commitment to democracy, individual liberty and support for the rule of law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Finland, the latest NATO entrant justifies this criteria while Ukraine’s record in these domains remains faltered.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky's big diplomatic illusion</strong></h2>

<p>For Kyiv, peace with Russia will not come from the capitals of the Big Four NATO countries, but from Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>By signing a peace treaty with Russia in the spring of 2022 and then<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-ukraine-signed-peace-treaty-with-russia-in-spring-of-2022-then-threw-it-into-garbage-of-history-605673"> throwing it into the ‘garbage of history’</a>, Kyiv with Zelensky at its helm has signed up for a prolonged conflict with Moscow, meaning further devastation for people in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>By unsuccessfully trying to be yet another Latvia in NATO’s purported hierarchy dominated by the Big Four, Zelensky is playing into a bonfire of diplomatic illusions that are making him believe that the US-led NATO will support its war effort ‘for as long as it takes’.</p>

<p><strong><em>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

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In the spring of 2002, the NATO-Russia Council was established in Rome for ‘joint decision making and joint action’ between Brussels and Moscow. Two years before that, at the peak of Washington's global unipolarity, the Moscow-Washington ties were ‘off to a good start’ according to US President Bill Clinton.

In the spring of 2002, the NATO-Russia Council was established in Rome for ‘joint decision making and joint action’ between Brussels and Moscow. Two years before that, at the peak of Washington's global unipolarity, the Moscow-Washington ties were ‘off to a good start’ according to US President Bill Clinton. Then in the middle of 2002 came the beginning of the end of the ‘good start’ for Moscow-Washington ties. The then US National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice asked her Russian counterpart how far Russia under Vladimir Putin was willing to integrate with NATO. “Condi, forget it. We are not going to join an alliance where our vote is the same as a country like Latvia. You need not ask me that again,” Sergei Ivanov, secretary of the Russian Security Council told her. File photo of former US National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice and Sergei Ivanov, former secretary of the Russian Security Council | state.gov The incident finds its mention in ‘A Bonfire of Illusions’, a chapter in a Putin biography by Philip Short, which describes how the rift between the US-led West became too deep to heal by the time he completed his second four-year term as Russian president in 2008. NATO’s ‘worst-kept secret’ During the NATO summit, that concluded earlier this month in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky blasted the absence of a timetable for his country’s formal entry to the alliance as 'absurd'. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attends a NATO leaders summit in Vilnius, Lithuania July 12, 2023 | Reuters "We value our allies," Zelensky said but added that "Ukraine also deserves respect." Not every nation has an equal weight in NATO. The worst-kept secret of the US-led alliance is that an informal group consisting of the United States, Britain, France and Germany ‘pre-cook’ NATO decisions which the rest 27 members then endorse, Philip Short adds in 'Putin: Life and Times'. French Premier and Foreign Secretary Pierre Mendès-France, West German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer, British Foreign Secretary Anthony Eden, and Secretary of State John Foster Dulles at Paris Conference, 23 October 1954 | German Historical Institute The informal group of NATO’s Big Four — US, France, Britain, and Germany — remains very much active during the ongoing war in Ukraine in boosting Kyiv’s war effort. But the alliance has fallen short of accepting Ukraine as a fellow ally due to Zelensky’s inconsistencies towards joining NATO and Ukraine’s own fallacies. An odd among NATO’s aces in Vilnius, while Zelensky appeared desperate to make Ukraine enter the alliance, he had called for "new institutions, new alliances" in his address to the US Congress in March 2023. Furthermore, to meet one of the three main criteria for entry into NATO, a European nation must demonstrate a commitment to democracy, individual liberty and support for the rule of law. Finland, the latest NATO entrant justifies this criteria while Ukraine’s record in these domains remains faltered. Zelensky's big diplomatic illusion For Kyiv, peace with Russia will not come from the capitals of the Big Four NATO countries, but from Moscow. By signing a peace treaty with Russia in the spring of 2022 and then throwing it into the ‘garbage of history’, Kyiv with Zelensky at its helm has signed up for a prolonged conflict with Moscow, meaning further devastation for people in the region. By unsuccessfully trying to be yet another Latvia in NATO’s purported hierarchy dominated by the Big Four, Zelensky is playing into a bonfire of diplomatic illusions that are making him believe that the US-led NATO will support its war effort ‘for as long as it takes’. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine’s NATO bid: Why Zelensky is living under illusions

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