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

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

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;

"During the week... the liberated area (in the south) increased by 12.6 square kilometres," said Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister Ganna Malyar.&nbsp;

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, &nbsp;"aiming to push our units beyond the Oskil river".

Watch | Russian strike ‘severely damages’ historic Odesa cathedral, leaves one dead

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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.

<h2>50% Ukraine territory re-captured: Blinken</h2>

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.

<h2>Ukrainian drones hit Moscow buildings&nbsp;</h2>

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;

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.

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".&nbsp;

"Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties," it said.&nbsp;

According to Sergei Sobyanin, Mayor of Moscow, the drone strikes took place around 4 am local time (0100 GMT).

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>

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.&nbsp;

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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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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

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;

"Today around 4 am (0100 GMT), drone strikes on two non-residential buildings were reported. There is no serious destruction or casualties."&nbsp;

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;

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;

"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.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-budget-drones-in-ukraine-are-redefining-warfare-616102">Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Budget drones in Ukraine are redefining warfare&nbsp;</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>Previous instances of drone attacks&nbsp;</h2>

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;

At the time, Kremlin described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and an "assassination attempt on the president of Russia".&nbsp;

"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.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-alleged-ukrainian-drones-targeted-luxury-homes-of-putins-ex-wife-and-daughter-600180">Also read |&nbsp;Did Ukrainian drones allegedly target luxury homes of Putin's ex-wife and daughters?</a>

"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;

Similarly, earlier this month, Moscow claimed that it shot down&nbsp;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:&nbsp;

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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

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.

&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" />

File photo of former US National&nbsp;Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice and&nbsp;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.

<h2>NATO’s ‘worst-kept secret’</h2>

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'.

<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" />

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. &nbsp;

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" />

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.&nbsp;

Finland, the latest NATO entrant justifies this criteria while Ukraine’s record in these domains remains faltered.&nbsp;

<h2>Zelensky's big diplomatic illusion</h2>

For Kyiv, peace with Russia will not come from the capitals of the Big Four NATO countries, but from Moscow.&nbsp;

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;

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.)&nbsp;

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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

In pics | Russia's 'brazen' attack on Transfiguration Cathedral in Ukraine's Odesa

Russian installed Governor of Crimean Peninsula has claimed that a Ukrainian drone strike hit an Ammunition Depot in Russia and a residential building was also damaged in the area.

Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia blames Ukraine for 'terrorist attack'

Russia notched a victory in the fight for influence over global oil markets in recent days when the price of the country's most coveted crude traded above a Western price cap imposed to starve Moscow of funds for the war in Ukraine.

Russia defies sanctions by selling oil above price cap

The Biden administration is holding firm, for now at least, on its refusal to send long-range Army missiles to Ukraine despite mounting pressure from U.S. lawmakers and pleas from the government in Kyiv, according to U.S. officials.

US in no hurry to provide Ukraine with long-range missiles

Lukashenko will be meeting Putin as part of a working visit to Russia. The two will be discussing about future course of the strategic partnership between their countries. A Russian war reporter was killed and three others were wounded in what Moscow said was an attack by Ukraine using cluster munitions. The deceased journalist was a correspondent with Russia's state news agency and his three colleagues were evacuated from Zaporizhzhia region. In a separate incident, German broadcaster Deutsche Welle said one of its journalists, had been wounded elsewhere in Ukraine. Russia launched yet another wave of attacks on the black sea port of Ukraine's Odesa. At least one person died and 18 others were injured in the attack.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian war reporter dead after alleged use of cluster munitions by Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin has met his closest ally, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, for the first time since the latter helped broker a deal to end a mutiny by Wagner fighters inside Russia last month.

Putin hosts Lukashenko, calls Ukraine counter-offensive a failure

A Russian missile attack on the Ukrainian port city of Odesa has killed at least one person, wounded 19, and badly damaged an Orthodox cathedral, according to officials.

Russian missile attack on Odesa kills one, damages cathedral

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (July 23) vowed "retaliation" against Russia after the historic port of Odesa was attacked by Moscow with missiles, killing two people and damaging an Orthodox cathedral.&nbsp;

"Missiles against peaceful cities, against residential buildings, a cathedral. There will definitely be a retaliation against Russian terrorists for Odesa. They will feel this retaliation,"&nbsp;Zelensky said.&nbsp;

Ukraine said that 19 missiles were launched by Russia&nbsp;on Odesa overnight.

At least two people lost their&nbsp;lives and&nbsp;19&nbsp;others suffered injuries, which included four children as residential and religious infrastructure suffered damage in an attack, informed the governor of the region on Sunday (July 23). 
 
"Odesa: another night attack of the monsters. Unfortunately, we have one civilian killed as a result of the nighttime terrorist attack by Russians on Odesa," said Oleg Kiper on Telegram. Earlier, he had said that there were "18 victims, including four children," in an attack launched by Russia at 3:00 am (0000 GMT).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/air-attacks-on-ukraine-russia-possibly-using-ballistic-missiles-says-kyiv-616906">Air attacks on Ukraine: Russia possibly using ballistic missiles, says Kyiv</a>

"Fourteen people were hospitalised in the city's hospitals, three of them were children," he stated. He added that the attack also led to "damage to civilian infrastructure, residential buildings and a religious institution".

<h2>Ukraine's repeated appeals for more defence systems</h2>

Head of Ukraine's presidential office Andriy Yermak repeated the call of Kyiv for more defence systems and missiles after the attack on Odesa. 
 
"The enemy must be deprived of the ability to hit civilians and infrastructure. More missile defence systems, as well as ATACMS - this will help Ukraine," he stated on Telegram while speaking about the long-range tactical missiles which Kyiv has been appealing to Washington to supply. 
 
Since the start of the invasion, Odesa has been bombed multiple times and the city's historic centre was designated as a World Heritage in Danger site by the United Nations Cultural Agency (UNESCO) in January.

<h2>Russia pounds Odesa</h2>

Odeas, along with other Ukrainian food export facilities, has been pounded by Russia almost daily for the past week after Moscow's withdrawal from the United Nations-brokered grain deal, which allowed for the Ukrainian grain's safe shipment. 
 
On its Telegram messaging app, Ukraine's Air Force said that high-precision Onyx missiles along with sea-to-shore Kalibr cruise missiles have&nbsp;been launched by Russia on Odesa after midnight on Sunday.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia attacks Odesa for the third day

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It was reported by the RBC-Ukraine news agency that the city's largest Orthodox church, which is the Spaso-Preobrazhenskyi Cathedral&nbsp;consecrated in 1809, has suffered severe damages in the attacks. 
 
In the social media videos, rubble can be seen inside a dark church-like structure which was put on fire and a distressed man can be seen walking and repeating, "The church is no longer."&nbsp;

<h2>Russia says attacks were 'planned, intended'</h2>

Moscow on Sunday said that&nbsp;all the intended targets were hit in&nbsp;Odesa port, claiming those sites were being used for&nbsp;preparing "terrorist acts" against Russia.&nbsp;

"At night the armed forces of the Russian Federation carried out a strike... on facilities where terrorist acts against the Russian Federation using unmanned boats were prepared. All planned targets in the strikes were destroyed,"&nbsp;said the Russian army.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (July 23) vowed "retaliation" against Russia after the historic port of Odesa was attacked by Moscow with missiles, killing two people and damaging an Orthodox cathedral.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (July 23) vowed "retaliation" against Russia after the historic port of Odesa was attacked by Moscow with missiles, killing two people and damaging an Orthodox cathedral. "Missiles against peaceful cities, against residential buildings, a cathedral. There will definitely be a retaliation against Russian terrorists for Odesa. They will feel this retaliation," Zelensky said. Ukraine said that 19 missiles were launched by Russia on Odesa overnight. At least two people lost their lives and 19 others suffered injuries, which included four children as residential and religious infrastructure suffered damage in an attack, informed the governor of the region on Sunday (July 23). "Odesa: another night attack of the monsters. Unfortunately, we have one civilian killed as a result of the nighttime terrorist attack by Russians on Odesa," said Oleg Kiper on Telegram. Earlier, he had said that there were "18 victims, including four children," in an attack launched by Russia at 3:00 am (0000 GMT). ALSO READ | Air attacks on Ukraine: Russia possibly using ballistic missiles, says Kyiv "Fourteen people were hospitalised in the city's hospitals, three of them were children," he stated. He added that the attack also led to "damage to civilian infrastructure, residential buildings and a religious institution". Ukraine's repeated appeals for more defence systems Head of Ukraine's presidential office Andriy Yermak repeated the call of Kyiv for more defence systems and missiles after the attack on Odesa. "The enemy must be deprived of the ability to hit civilians and infrastructure. More missile defence systems, as well as ATACMS - this will help Ukraine," he stated on Telegram while speaking about the long-range tactical missiles which Kyiv has been appealing to Washington to supply. Since the start of the invasion, Odesa has been bombed multiple times and the city's historic centre was designated as a World Heritage in Danger site by the United Nations Cultural Agency (UNESCO) in January. Russia pounds Odesa Odeas, along with other Ukrainian food export facilities, has been pounded by Russia almost daily for the past week after Moscow's withdrawal from the United Nations-brokered grain deal, which allowed for the Ukrainian grain's safe shipment. On its Telegram messaging app, Ukraine's Air Force said that high-precision Onyx missiles along with sea-to-shore Kalibr cruise missiles have been launched by Russia on Odesa after midnight on Sunday. WATCH | Russia attacks Odesa for the third day It was reported by the RBC-Ukraine news agency that the city's largest Orthodox church, which is the Spaso-Preobrazhenskyi Cathedral consecrated in 1809, has suffered severe damages in the attacks. In the social media videos, rubble can be seen inside a dark church-like structure which was put on fire and a distressed man can be seen walking and repeating, "The church is no longer." Russia says attacks were 'planned, intended' Moscow on Sunday said that all the intended targets were hit in Odesa port, claiming those sites were being used for preparing "terrorist acts" against Russia. "At night the armed forces of the Russian Federation carried out a strike... on facilities where terrorist acts against the Russian Federation using unmanned boats were prepared. All planned targets in the strikes were destroyed," said the Russian army. (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

Zelensky vows to 'retaliate' after overnight strikes on Odesa by Russia

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian attack on Odesa kills one, damages cathedral, Ukrainian officials say

The controversial cluster bombs which were supplied by the united states of America to Ukraine are now being used against the Russian military positions according to the white house Kyiv is using these cluster munitions quite effectively. How will the use of cluster munitions impact the ongoing war?

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine's new cluster munitions in use

A Russian journalist was killed and three were injured in Ukraine, on Saturday (July 22), said the country’s defence ministry in what it said was a Ukrainian attack using <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-are-cluster-bombs-which-us-is-set-to-provide-to-ukraine-why-it-is-facing-opposition-613067">cluster munitions</a> and has since prompted outrage in Moscow. Meanwhile, the Russian foreign ministry has blamed the West and Kyiv for what it described as a “heinous, premeditated crime” and vowed a “response”.&nbsp;

<h2>What do we know about the Russian journalist’s death?</h2>

According to the Russian military, a war reporter for the state news agency RIA identified as Rostislav Zhuravlev was killed&nbsp;after coming under fire in Ukraine’s southeastern Zaporizhzhia region. Meanwhile, three of his colleagues were injured and were later evacuated from the battlefield.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-attempted-drone-attack-on-crimea-alleges-moscow-backed-authorities-618395">Ammunition depot in Crimea 'destroyed' in Ukraine drone attack, cluster munition fired in Russian village</a>

The war reporter was killed near the frontline village of Pytikhatki, said the Russian news agency. “As a result of a strike by the Ukrainian army using cluster munitions, four journalists were wounded in various levels of severity,” said the Russian defence ministry.&nbsp;

It added, “During an evacuation, the RIA Novosti journalist Rostislav Zhuravlev died from his wounds that resulted from the cluster munitions exploding.” Furthermore, the three journalists who got injured were said to be stable in hospital after the attack.

The Russian ministry said that the journalists attacked were in the midst of “gathering material for a report on the bombing by the Kyiv regime militants of settlements in the Zaporizhzhia region using cluster munitions banned in many countries around the world.”&nbsp;

<h2>Moscow fumes over attack on Russian journalists</h2>

Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova called the attack “criminal terror” by Ukraine and claimed that the attack appeared deliberate but did not provide any evidence for her claims.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-nations-rights-groups-and-un-oppose-us-move-to-send-cluster-bombs-to-ukraine-613459">Explained | Several nations, rights groups and UN oppose US move to send cluster bombs to Ukraine</a>

She added, “Those responsible for the brutal reprisal against a Russian journalist will inevitably suffer well-deserved punishment. The entire measure of responsibility will be shared by those who supplied cluster munitions to their Kyiv protégés.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Deputy Speaker of the Russian upper house of parliament, Konstantin Kosachyov called the use of cluster munitions “inhuman” and blamed both the United States and Ukraine. Notably, human rights groups and the United Nations have reported that Russia has been using cluster munitions since the beginning of what it calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine.&nbsp;

<h2>German reporter wounded by Russian cluster munitions&nbsp;</h2>

In a separate incident which also took place on Saturday, German state-owned international broadcaster, Deutsche Welle (DW) reported that their cameraman was injured by shrapnel in an apparent cluster bomb attack by Russia which targeted the Ukrainian army training ground in Donbas.&nbsp;

The alleged attack took place at 12:10 pm (local time) when the DW team came under Russian artillery fire while filming at a Ukrainian army training ground near Druzhkivka, said the German broadcaster, in a statement.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-threatens-tit-for-tat-use-of-cluster-munitions-against-ukraine-616228">Putin threatens 'tit-for-tat' use of cluster munitions against Ukraine</a> 
 
Another DW correspondent Mathias Bolinger and a security escort, who was not named, were reported “unharmed.” The DW said that Shylko is being treated in a Ukrainian hospital and his condition was described as “stable so far”.&nbsp;

“We were filming the Ukrainian army during target practice when suddenly we heard several explosions. We lay down, more explosions followed, we saw people were wounded. Later, the Ukrainian army confirmed that we had been fired at with cluster munitions,” said Bolinger.

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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A Russian journalist was killed and three were injured in Ukraine, on Saturday (July 22), said the country’s defence ministry in what it said was a Ukrainian attack using cluster munitions and has since prompted outrage in Moscow.

A Russian journalist was killed and three were injured in Ukraine, on Saturday (July 22), said the country’s defence ministry in what it said was a Ukrainian attack using cluster munitions and has since prompted outrage in Moscow. Meanwhile, the Russian foreign ministry has blamed the West and Kyiv for what it described as a “heinous, premeditated crime” and vowed a “response”. What do we know about the Russian journalist’s death? According to the Russian military, a war reporter for the state news agency RIA identified as Rostislav Zhuravlev was killed after coming under fire in Ukraine’s southeastern Zaporizhzhia region. Meanwhile, three of his colleagues were injured and were later evacuated from the battlefield. ALSO READ | Ammunition depot in Crimea 'destroyed' in Ukraine drone attack, cluster munition fired in Russian village The war reporter was killed near the frontline village of Pytikhatki, said the Russian news agency. “As a result of a strike by the Ukrainian army using cluster munitions, four journalists were wounded in various levels of severity,” said the Russian defence ministry. It added, “During an evacuation, the RIA Novosti journalist Rostislav Zhuravlev died from his wounds that resulted from the cluster munitions exploding.” Furthermore, the three journalists who got injured were said to be stable in hospital after the attack. The Russian ministry said that the journalists attacked were in the midst of “gathering material for a report on the bombing by the Kyiv regime militants of settlements in the Zaporizhzhia region using cluster munitions banned in many countries around the world.” Moscow fumes over attack on Russian journalists Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova called the attack “criminal terror” by Ukraine and claimed that the attack appeared deliberate but did not provide any evidence for her claims. ALSO READ | Explained | Several nations, rights groups and UN oppose US move to send cluster bombs to Ukraine She added, “Those responsible for the brutal reprisal against a Russian journalist will inevitably suffer well-deserved punishment. The entire measure of responsibility will be shared by those who supplied cluster munitions to their Kyiv protégés.” Meanwhile, Deputy Speaker of the Russian upper house of parliament, Konstantin Kosachyov called the use of cluster munitions “inhuman” and blamed both the United States and Ukraine. Notably, human rights groups and the United Nations have reported that Russia has been using cluster munitions since the beginning of what it calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine. German reporter wounded by Russian cluster munitions In a separate incident which also took place on Saturday, German state-owned international broadcaster, Deutsche Welle (DW) reported that their cameraman was injured by shrapnel in an apparent cluster bomb attack by Russia which targeted the Ukrainian army training ground in Donbas. The alleged attack took place at 12:10 pm (local time) when the DW team came under Russian artillery fire while filming at a Ukrainian army training ground near Druzhkivka, said the German broadcaster, in a statement. ALSO READ | Putin threatens 'tit-for-tat' use of cluster munitions against Ukraine Another DW correspondent Mathias Bolinger and a security escort, who was not named, were reported “unharmed.” The DW said that Shylko is being treated in a Ukrainian hospital and his condition was described as “stable so far”. “We were filming the Ukrainian army during target practice when suddenly we heard several explosions. We lay down, more explosions followed, we saw people were wounded. Later, the Ukrainian army confirmed that we had been fired at with cluster munitions,” said Bolinger. (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 You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Moscow blames the West, Kyiv for Russian journalist’s death in Ukraine, vows ‘response’

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (July 21) said that the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target.

On Monday, two civilians were killed and a part of the road bridge was out of service after explosions took place on the Crimea bridge. The bridge had recently got back into full operation after it was damaged severely in a similar attack in October. 
 
The attack that took place on Monday was welcomed by Ukraine, however, their officials did not claim any direct responsibility, while Moscow blamed Kyiv. Russia had annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 and Kyiv wishes&nbsp;to reclaim it as it continues to fight back against the 17-month-long full-scale invasion by&nbsp;Russia.

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>

The rail and road bridge, which was constructed by Russia and came into service in 2018 was "not just a logistical road", stated Zelensky, while speaking at the Aspen Security Conference in the United States through a video link. 
 
"This is the route used to feed the war with ammunition and this is being done on a daily basis. And it militarises the Crimean peninsula," said Zelensky, in his address as heard through an interpreter. 
 
"For us, this is understandably an enemy facility built outside international laws and all applicable norms. So, understandably, this is a target for us. And a target that is bringing war, not peace, has to be neutralised,” he added.

<h2>'Crimea bridge attack not linked to grain export deal'</h2>

Replying to questions raised through a moderator, Zelensky denied any link between the withdrawal of Russia from a UN-backed deal to export grain from Ukrainian ports and the attack on the Crimea bridge. 
 
He said that the operation of the grain corridor was hindered by Russia from the very start.

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine forces struggle to counter Russia's 'Oink' missile

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"And later, they took this situation around the Crimea bridge, using it just as an example. If not the Crimea bridge, they would have found another example, another reason,” he said. 
 
The long-anticipated counteroffensive of the Ukrainian military, which was launched last month, took time to prepare as several defensive lines were set up by Russian occupying forces and Ukrainian territory was extensively mined, said Zelensky. 
 
President Zelensky further reiterated his previous assessment about the counteroffensive moving more slowly as he would want. "Ukraine is not backtracking. It is progressively liberating its territories, which is very important. Still, I believe we are approaching a moment when relevant actions can gain pace. I do understand it is better to see that victory comes sooner. This is what we want too,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (July 21) said that the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (July 21) said that the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target. On Monday, two civilians were killed and a part of the road bridge was out of service after explosions took place on the Crimea bridge. The bridge had recently got back into full operation after it was damaged severely in a similar attack in October. The attack that took place on Monday was welcomed by Ukraine, however, their officials did not claim any direct responsibility, while Moscow blamed Kyiv. Russia had annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 and Kyiv wishes to reclaim it as it continues to fight back against the 17-month-long full-scale invasion by Russia. ALSO READ | Will Ukraine war expand to other regions? Poland moving troops over Wagner risk from Belarus The rail and road bridge, which was constructed by Russia and came into service in 2018 was "not just a logistical road", stated Zelensky, while speaking at the Aspen Security Conference in the United States through a video link. "This is the route used to feed the war with ammunition and this is being done on a daily basis. And it militarises the Crimean peninsula," said Zelensky, in his address as heard through an interpreter. "For us, this is understandably an enemy facility built outside international laws and all applicable norms. So, understandably, this is a target for us. And a target that is bringing war, not peace, has to be neutralised,” he added. 'Crimea bridge attack not linked to grain export deal' Replying to questions raised through a moderator, Zelensky denied any link between the withdrawal of Russia from a UN-backed deal to export grain from Ukrainian ports and the attack on the Crimea bridge. He said that the operation of the grain corridor was hindered by Russia from the very start. WATCH | Ukraine forces struggle to counter Russia's 'Oink' missile "And later, they took this situation around the Crimea bridge, using it just as an example. If not the Crimea bridge, they would have found another example, another reason,” he said. The long-anticipated counteroffensive of the Ukrainian military, which was launched last month, took time to prepare as several defensive lines were set up by Russian occupying forces and Ukrainian territory was extensively mined, said Zelensky. President Zelensky further reiterated his previous assessment about the counteroffensive moving more slowly as he would want. "Ukraine is not backtracking. It is progressively liberating its territories, which is very important. Still, I believe we are approaching a moment when relevant actions can gain pace. I do understand it is better to see that victory comes sooner. This is what we want too,” he said. (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

Zelensky calls Crimea bridge 'legitimate military target', says it feeds ammunition for war

Rostislav Zhuravlev, a war correspondent for Russia's RIA news agency, was killed and three other Russian journalists were wounded in a Ukrainian artillery strike on Saturday, the Russian defence ministry said, adding they were evacuated from the battlefield but Zhuravlev died during the journey.

Russia accuses Kyiv of using cluster bombs as journalist killed

Iraq expels Sweden's Ambassador after Stockholm's permission to an Agent Provocateur to burn the Quran 3 killed in a deadly shootout in New Zealand just hours before the inaugural match of the Fifa Women's World Cup in Auckland & Over 40 killed by insurgents in the Ituri province of DR Congo Mohammed Saleh gets you an in-depth report of the world's biggest warzones of the week in #WorldatWar

Russia unleashes its Supersonic Onyx missiles on Ukrainian ports

Russia walked out of the Black Sea grain deal hours after a road and rail bridge linking Russia to Crimea was blown up. The deal facilitated safe passage of Ukrainian grain, oilseed and fertiliser from Black Sea ports. With the agreement dead, which countries will be the worst hit? Listen in to @VikramChandra

Russia stops Ukraine grain deal, shaking world food markets

Russia dumps Black Sea grain deal: Will you have to pay more for wheat?

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday discussed the "unblocking" of the Black Sea grain corridor with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg. The discussion took place after Moscow exited a crucial deal to ensure the safe passage of ships.&nbsp;

"We discussed the implementation of the agreements reached during the Vilnius summit and further actions regarding the integration of Ukraine into&nbsp;@NATO,"&nbsp;Zelensky said on Twitter after a phone call with Stoltenberg.

"We shared assessments of the current situation in the Black Sea and the risks it poses for global food security," he said. "We also identified with Mr Stoltenberg the priority and future steps necessary for unblocking and sustainable operation of the Black Sea grain corridor."

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Had a phone conversation with NATO Secretary General <a href="https://twitter.com/jensstoltenberg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jensstoltenberg</a>. 
 
We discussed the implementation of the agreements reached during the Vilnius summit and further actions regarding the integration of Ukraine into <a href="https://twitter.com/NATO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NATO</a>. 
 
We shared assessments of the current situation in the…
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1682731457586790401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2>Ammunition depot in Crimea 'destroyed' in Ukraine drone attack</h2>

Russian-appointed head of Crimea said that an ammunition depot was “detonated” on Saturday (July 22) by the Ukrainian drone attack and ordered the people living within the five kilometres of the attack to evacuate while halting the rail traffic

"As a result of an enemy drone strike on the Krasnogvardeisky district, there was a detonation at an ammunition depot," said official Sergei Aksyonov on Telegram. "A decision was taken to evacuate people (living) within five kilometres" of the zone, he stated, adding that: "To minimise risks, it was also decided to halt rail traffic on Crimean railways."

He said that the drone attack was “attempted” by Ukraine on infrastructure in the centre of the Moscow-annexed region.

"The goal is to return Crimea," Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky said, according to a transcript published by his office Saturday of a speech addressing the Aspen Security Forum Friday.&nbsp;

He said that Kyiv considers the Crimea bridge, which was&nbsp;opened by Russian leader Vladimir Putin in the year 2018, as an "enemy object" and wants it to be "neutralised".

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungarys-prime-minister-viktor-orban-condemns-european-union-federalism-lgbtq-offensive-618452">Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban condemns European Union federalism, LGBTQ 'offensive'</a>

<h2>Kremlin says Ukraine's actions pose danger to civilian shipping in the Black Sea</h2>

On Friday, the Kremlin released a statement saying that Ukraine's "unpredictable" actions pose a danger to civilian shipping in the Black Sea.

It further condemned Kyiv for carrying out "terrorist attacks" in the area.

Earlier this week, Russia said that this week all the ships that were heading to Ukraine's Black Sea ports could be considered military targets and that their flag countries parties to the conflict on the Ukrainian side, after it annulled their security guarantees by pulling back from the Black Sea grain deal.

"Unpredictable actions and, moreover, the involvement of the Kyiv regime in terrorist acts certainly potentially create a threat in this area," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

On being asked if ships carrying Russian oil and other goods from Russia's Black Sea ports were at risk, Peskov told reporters that government departments would take a decision.

"The situation is being analysed, and our responsible agencies will develop appropriate recommendations to minimise the danger," he said.

(With input from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday discussed the "unblocking" of the Black Sea grain corridor with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg. The discussion took place after Moscow exited a crucial deal to ensure the safe passage of ships.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday discussed the "unblocking" of the Black Sea grain corridor with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg. The discussion took place after Moscow exited a crucial deal to ensure the safe passage of ships. "We discussed the implementation of the agreements reached during the Vilnius summit and further actions regarding the integration of Ukraine into @NATO," Zelensky said on Twitter after a phone call with Stoltenberg. "We shared assessments of the current situation in the Black Sea and the risks it poses for global food security," he said. "We also identified with Mr Stoltenberg the priority and future steps necessary for unblocking and sustainable operation of the Black Sea grain corridor." Had a phone conversation with NATO Secretary General @jensstoltenberg. We discussed the implementation of the agreements reached during the Vilnius summit and further actions regarding the integration of Ukraine into @NATO. We shared assessments of the current situation in the… — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) July 22, 2023 × Ammunition depot in Crimea 'destroyed' in Ukraine drone attack Russian-appointed head of Crimea said that an ammunition depot was “detonated” on Saturday (July 22) by the Ukrainian drone attack and ordered the people living within the five kilometres of the attack to evacuate while halting the rail traffic "As a result of an enemy drone strike on the Krasnogvardeisky district, there was a detonation at an ammunition depot," said official Sergei Aksyonov on Telegram. "A decision was taken to evacuate people (living) within five kilometres" of the zone, he stated, adding that: "To minimise risks, it was also decided to halt rail traffic on Crimean railways." He said that the drone attack was “attempted” by Ukraine on infrastructure in the centre of the Moscow-annexed region. "The goal is to return Crimea," Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky said, according to a transcript published by his office Saturday of a speech addressing the Aspen Security Forum Friday. He said that Kyiv considers the Crimea bridge, which was opened by Russian leader Vladimir Putin in the year 2018, as an "enemy object" and wants it to be "neutralised". Also read: Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban condemns European Union federalism, LGBTQ 'offensive' Kremlin says Ukraine's actions pose danger to civilian shipping in the Black Sea On Friday, the Kremlin released a statement saying that Ukraine's "unpredictable" actions pose a danger to civilian shipping in the Black Sea. It further condemned Kyiv for carrying out "terrorist attacks" in the area. Earlier this week, Russia said that this week all the ships that were heading to Ukraine's Black Sea ports could be considered military targets and that their flag countries parties to the conflict on the Ukrainian side, after it annulled their security guarantees by pulling back from the Black Sea grain deal. "Unpredictable actions and, moreover, the involvement of the Kyiv regime in terrorist acts certainly potentially create a threat in this area," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. On being asked if ships carrying Russian oil and other goods from Russia's Black Sea ports were at risk, Peskov told reporters that government departments would take a decision. "The situation is being analysed, and our responsible agencies will develop appropriate recommendations to minimise the danger," he said. (With input 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.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky discusses 'unblocking' grain corridor with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg

Ukraine "attempted" a drone attack on infrastructure in the center of Moscow-annexed Crimea on Saturday, the Russian-appointed head of the peninsula said.

Russia-Ukraine war: Drone attack in Crimea prompts evacuation, brief bridge closure

Russian-appointed head of Crimea said that an ammunition depot was “detonated” on Saturday (July 22) by the Ukrainian drone attack and ordered the people living within the five kilometres of the attack to evacuate while halting the rail traffic.

"As a result of an enemy drone strike on the Krasnogvardeisky district, there was a detonation at an ammunition depot," said official Sergei Aksyonov on Telegram. "A decision was taken to evacuate people (living) within five kilometres" of the zone, he stated, adding that: "To minimise risks, it was also decided to halt rail traffic on Crimean railways."

He said that the drone attack was “attempted” by Ukraine on infrastructure in the centre of the Moscow-annexed region. 
 
The allegations were made five days after two people were killed in an attack on the bridge which links&nbsp;Crimea to the Russian mainland.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-collision-course-expands-as-zelensky-calls-crimea-bridge-legitimate-military-target-618302">Zelensky calls Crimea bridge 'legitimate military target', says it feeds ammunition for war</a>

"The enemy attempted a raid using drones on infrastructure facilities in the Krasnogvardeisky district of the Republic of Crimea," said Sergei Aksyonov, while speaking about an inland area of the Black Sea peninsula.

The governor did not state the exact location where it was hit but said that it was in the Krasnogvardeisky district which remains inland at the centre of the Black Sea peninsula.&nbsp;

Authorities stated that the two trains going from Moscow to Crimea's main city of Simferopol and one coming from the opposite direction had been stopped.

WATCH |&nbsp;Why is the Crimea Bridge important for Putin?

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He stated that emergency workers were present on the scene to handle the "possible consequences". He appealed to all Crimeans to "remain calm".

The authorities also briefly halted the road traffic across the only bridge linking annexed Crimea to Russia. "Car traffic across the Crimea bridge is temporarily closed," the Moscow-backed Crimean government stated on Telegram, adding that it was resumed after&nbsp;10 minutes.&nbsp;

No details were given by Aksyonov on exactly what Kyiv tried to hit and did not mention anything about casualties. Crimea has remained a target during Russia's 17-month Ukraine offensive, however, the attacks have intensified in recent weeks.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (July 21) had stated that the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target.

<h2>Cluster munitions used by Kyiv on Russian border village</h2>

Belgorod governor Vyacheslav Gladkov on Saturday said that the Russian border village of Zhuravlevka, which is located in the western Belgorod region, was hit by Ukraine with cluster munitions on Friday (July 21).

"In the Belgorod region, 21 artillery shells and three cluster munitions from a multiple rocket launcher were fired (by the Ukrainian army) at the village of Zhuravlevka," Governor Gladkov stated on Telegram, referring to attacks which were carried out the previous day.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian-appointed head of Crimea said that an ammunition depot was “detonated” on Saturday (July 22) by the Ukrainian drone attack and ordered the people living within the five kilometres of the attack to evacuate while halting the rail traffic.

Russian-appointed head of Crimea said that an ammunition depot was “detonated” on Saturday (July 22) by the Ukrainian drone attack and ordered the people living within the five kilometres of the attack to evacuate while halting the rail traffic. "As a result of an enemy drone strike on the Krasnogvardeisky district, there was a detonation at an ammunition depot," said official Sergei Aksyonov on Telegram. "A decision was taken to evacuate people (living) within five kilometres" of the zone, he stated, adding that: "To minimise risks, it was also decided to halt rail traffic on Crimean railways." He said that the drone attack was “attempted” by Ukraine on infrastructure in the centre of the Moscow-annexed region. The allegations were made five days after two people were killed in an attack on the bridge which links Crimea to the Russian mainland. ALSO READ | Zelensky calls Crimea bridge 'legitimate military target', says it feeds ammunition for war "The enemy attempted a raid using drones on infrastructure facilities in the Krasnogvardeisky district of the Republic of Crimea," said Sergei Aksyonov, while speaking about an inland area of the Black Sea peninsula. The governor did not state the exact location where it was hit but said that it was in the Krasnogvardeisky district which remains inland at the centre of the Black Sea peninsula. Authorities stated that the two trains going from Moscow to Crimea's main city of Simferopol and one coming from the opposite direction had been stopped. WATCH | Why is the Crimea Bridge important for Putin? He stated that emergency workers were present on the scene to handle the "possible consequences". He appealed to all Crimeans to "remain calm". The authorities also briefly halted the road traffic across the only bridge linking annexed Crimea to Russia. "Car traffic across the Crimea bridge is temporarily closed," the Moscow-backed Crimean government stated on Telegram, adding that it was resumed after 10 minutes. No details were given by Aksyonov on exactly what Kyiv tried to hit and did not mention anything about casualties. Crimea has remained a target during Russia's 17-month Ukraine offensive, however, the attacks have intensified in recent weeks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (July 21) had stated that the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target. Cluster munitions used by Kyiv on Russian border village Belgorod governor Vyacheslav Gladkov on Saturday said that the Russian border village of Zhuravlevka, which is located in the western Belgorod region, was hit by Ukraine with cluster munitions on Friday (July 21). "In the Belgorod region, 21 artillery shells and three cluster munitions from a multiple rocket launcher were fired (by the Ukrainian army) at the village of Zhuravlevka," Governor Gladkov stated on Telegram, referring to attacks which were carried out the previous day. (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

Ammunition depot in Crimea 'destroyed' in Ukraine drone attack, cluster munition fired in Russian village

Igor Girkin, a former soldier-spy and critic of President Vladimir Putin’s conduct of the war against Ukraine, was detained on Friday on charges of inciting extremism after the latest in a series of diatribes against the Kremlin chief appeared to go too far.

Russia-Ukraine war: Pro-war nationalist and Putin scourge Igor Girkin held on extremism charges

Health experts have expressed concerns that a new measles outbreak could occur in Ukraine if hundreds of thousands of unvaccinated children return to schools in September, a report by Euronews on Thursday (July 20) said.

Health experts have expressed concerns that a new measles outbreak could occur in Ukraine if hundreds of thousands of unvaccinated children return to schools in September, a report by Euronews on Thursday (July 20) said. Ukraine has been a measles hotspot in the past, and vaccine scepticism and supply interruptions led to a large outbreak in 2019. As per the health ministry, only 74 per cent of children aged 1 and 69 per cent of children aged 6 received their first and second measles vaccination in 2022. Children who are unvaccinated between the ages of 2-17 will be headed towards classrooms where the risk of contagion is much higher. Around 260,000 kids need to be vaccinated: Minister Earlier this week, Ukraine's Deputy Health Minister Ihor Kuzin said that the ministry and the centres for immunisation constantly monitor the contagion risks, and the highest risk right now is a measles outbreak. “The first measles explosion in Ukraine happened over the 2017-2019 period and was a massive outbreak that the government was trying to mitigate. Around 115,000 children contracted the disease at the time,” Kuzin said. He added that around 260,000 children need to be vaccinated, and until that is done, the country is facing the risk of a massive outbreak. “So until 1 September, when school starts, these children need to get vaccinated,” the deputy health minister further said and urged people to get vaccinated in the next month and a half. Earlier, the World Health Organization (WHO) said that Ukraine had become more vulnerable to contagious diseases following the launch of the special military operation by Russia in February 2022. Vusala Allahverdiyeva, an expert on Disease Prevention And Immunisation at the WHO, said, "When the Russian invasion of Ukraine began, we realised that the biggest health risks in the country were diphtheria and measles outbreaks." UNICEF delivers 657,000 vaccine doses to Ukraine Nearly a week back, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) delivered another 657,000 doses of the combination measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine (MMR) to Ukraine. Muhammad Tariq Iqbal, a Ukraine Immunisation Specialist at UNICEF, said on July 17, "If your child missed the routine calendar shots, you need to catch up. UNICEF has delivered these vaccines to Ukraine." Two doses of the MMR vaccine, given at 12 months and six years old, provide effective protection against measles. 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.

War-torn Ukraine faces risk of new measles outbreak, warn health experts

Russia has come under scrutiny at the UN Security Council for allegedly exacerbating famine conditions by obstructing grain exports via the Black Sea, in an apparent bid to capitalise on soaring global food prices.

On Friday (July 21), Russia's representative expressed the possibility of reinstating the Black Sea grain initiative if offered improved conditions for its food and fertiliser exports. However, Western diplomats accused Moscow of holding impoverished nations hostage, reported the Guardian.

<h2>UN's Martin Griffiths decries impact on vulnerable communities</h2>

Martin Griffiths, the UN's head of humanitarian relief, lauded the success of the Black Sea grain initiative, which facilitated the export of 33 million metric tonnes of grain from Ukrainian ports to 45 countries via over a thousand ships within a year.

The agreement contributed to a 23 per cent&nbsp;reduction in average grain prices. Nevertheless, with the recent termination of the initiative, grain prices are rapidly rising, posing a significant threat to the world's poorest and most vulnerable populations who rely on food assistance.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: What was the Black sea grain deal all about?

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“For many of those 362 million people, it’s not a matter of sadness or disappointment, it’s a matter of a threat to their future and the future of their children and their families,” Griffiths said.&nbsp;

Western ambassadors at the council session pointed out the surge in Russian food exports, which is bolstering their economic gains at the expense of millions who cannot afford the higher-priced grain. Accusations were levied against Russia, calling their actions a form of political manipulation and hostage-taking of humanity.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-imposes-major-rice-export-ban-prompting-inflation-concerns-618003/amp">&nbsp;India imposes major rice export ban, prompting inflation concerns</a>

<h2>Financing aggression through Black Sea agreement halt</h2>

France's ambassador, Nicolas de Rivière, alleged that Moscow's suspension of the Black Sea deal was a tactic to boost income for financing their aggressive war against Ukraine.

Russia's deputy representative, Dmitry Polyanskiy, refuted the allegations, asserting that only a small percentage of Ukrainian grain exports went to the neediest countries, and the initiative had become predominantly commercial. He highlighted the economic losses faced by Russian farmers due to western sanctions and the closure of an ammonia pipeline between Russia and Ukrainian Black Sea ports.

Polyanskiy stated that Russia would consider rejoining the initiative but demanded the lifting of financial and economic sanctions affecting Russian grain and fertiliser exports.

In response, Western diplomats decried Russia's demands, denouncing the exploitation of potential famine as a bargaining tool for national interests. The British ambassador, Barbara Woodward, strongly condemned the use of food as a weapon.

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“Food is not a weapon. We call on Russia to rejoin the deal.” 
 
🇬🇧<a href="https://twitter.com/BWoodward_UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BWoodward_UN</a> 
 
The UK has called a Security Council meeting at 10am ET on Russia’s sabotage of the Black Sea Grain Deal. 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNSC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNSC</a> 🇬🇧🇺🇳 <a href="https://t.co/eI5PtBnGhH">pic.twitter.com/eI5PtBnGhH</a>
— UK at the UN 🇬🇧🇺🇳 (@UKUN_NewYork) <a href="https://twitter.com/UKUN_NewYork/status/1682382480970596354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Amidst the ongoing crisis, the international community faces a contentious standoff with Russia, as they grapple with the humanitarian consequences and attempt to find a resolution to the pressing issue of grain exports through the Black Sea.

&nbsp;

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Russia has come under scrutiny at the UN Security Council for allegedly exacerbating famine conditions by obstructing grain exports via the Black Sea, in an apparent bid to capitalise on soaring global food prices.

Russia has come under scrutiny at the UN Security Council for allegedly exacerbating famine conditions by obstructing grain exports via the Black Sea, in an apparent bid to capitalise on soaring global food prices. On Friday (July 21), Russia's representative expressed the possibility of reinstating the Black Sea grain initiative if offered improved conditions for its food and fertiliser exports. However, Western diplomats accused Moscow of holding impoverished nations hostage, reported the Guardian. UN's Martin Griffiths decries impact on vulnerable communities Martin Griffiths, the UN's head of humanitarian relief, lauded the success of the Black Sea grain initiative, which facilitated the export of 33 million metric tonnes of grain from Ukrainian ports to 45 countries via over a thousand ships within a year. The agreement contributed to a 23 per cent reduction in average grain prices. Nevertheless, with the recent termination of the initiative, grain prices are rapidly rising, posing a significant threat to the world's poorest and most vulnerable populations who rely on food assistance. Also watch | Gravitas: What was the Black sea grain deal all about? “For many of those 362 million people, it’s not a matter of sadness or disappointment, it’s a matter of a threat to their future and the future of their children and their families,” Griffiths said. Western ambassadors at the council session pointed out the surge in Russian food exports, which is bolstering their economic gains at the expense of millions who cannot afford the higher-priced grain. Accusations were levied against Russia, calling their actions a form of political manipulation and hostage-taking of humanity. Also read | India imposes major rice export ban, prompting inflation concerns Financing aggression through Black Sea agreement halt France's ambassador, Nicolas de Rivière, alleged that Moscow's suspension of the Black Sea deal was a tactic to boost income for financing their aggressive war against Ukraine. Russia's deputy representative, Dmitry Polyanskiy, refuted the allegations, asserting that only a small percentage of Ukrainian grain exports went to the neediest countries, and the initiative had become predominantly commercial. He highlighted the economic losses faced by Russian farmers due to western sanctions and the closure of an ammonia pipeline between Russia and Ukrainian Black Sea ports. Polyanskiy stated that Russia would consider rejoining the initiative but demanded the lifting of financial and economic sanctions affecting Russian grain and fertiliser exports. In response, Western diplomats decried Russia's demands, denouncing the exploitation of potential famine as a bargaining tool for national interests. The British ambassador, Barbara Woodward, strongly condemned the use of food as a weapon. “Food is not a weapon. We call on Russia to rejoin the deal.” 🇬🇧@BWoodward_UN The UK has called a Security Council meeting at 10am ET on Russia’s sabotage of the Black Sea Grain Deal. #UNSC 🇬🇧🇺🇳 pic.twitter.com/eI5PtBnGhH — UK at the UN 🇬🇧🇺🇳 (@UKUN_NewYork) July 21, 2023 × Amidst the ongoing crisis, the international community faces a contentious standoff with Russia, as they grapple with the humanitarian consequences and attempt to find a resolution to the pressing issue of grain exports through the Black Sea. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UN accuses Russia of 'holding humanity hostage' with Black Sea grain deal

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