The Black sea grain deal has collapsed. What was the deal all about? What went wrong? What happens next? Priyanka Sharma tells you all you need to know.

Gravitas: What was the Black sea grain deal all about?

<p>The culture minister of Ukraine has resigned amid alleged disagreement with President Volodymyr Zelensky over budget appropriation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko tendered his resignation Friday (July 21), owing to “a wave of misunderstanding about the importance of wartime culture."</p>

<p>"During the war, both private and budget funds for culture are no less important than for drones, because culture is the shield of our identity and our borders," he wrote in a Facebook post.</p>

<h2><strong>Culture minister had allocated millions for a TV series</strong></h2>

<p>The alleged misunderstanding emerged between the minister and Zelensky after the former decided to allocate 448 million hryvnias (around $12 million) for the production of a television series.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, he also wanted to earmark a $13 million package for finishing building a museum to commemorate Ukraine's 1932-33 famine, which Kyiv sees as a deliberate act of genocide by the erstwhile Soviets.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-starts-firing-cluster-munitions-against-russian-forces-amid-criticism-617861">Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism</a></strong></p>

<p>"Such things, which speak of the suffering inflicted on the Ukrainian people for decades by Moscow, should be reflected in the museum," he had told a US radio.</p>

<p>"If someone says that the museum should not be built during the war, let them give arguments other than that it is necessary to spend money on reconstruction. There are funds," he said unapologetically.</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky objects</strong></h2>

<p>Tkachenko’s lavish plans ended up putting him at odds with the President himself. Zelensky on Thursday (July 20) urged his government to rein in government spending while the nation was at war with Russia.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Wheat prices soar after Russia threatens ships</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-wheat-prices-soar-after-russia-threatens-ships-617907/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>“In a time of war like this the maximum amount of state attention and therefore state resources should go to defense,” Zelensky said in his nightly video address, after having a conversation with Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal.</p>

<p>He also reportedly asked the PM to consider “changing” the culture minister.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine’s funding woes</strong></h2>

<p>The development comes as several US lawmakers and staffers express concerns that Ukraine’s coffers could run dry by mid-summer.</p>

<p>White House in May said that the administration was not planning to ask Congress for additional funding for Ukraine before the end of September, indicating that Kyiv could be left to fend for itself if the funding crunch takes a toll on the war-torn nation’s defence.</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Thanks to the bipartisan Congressional support for Ukraine, we believe we have the resources we need through the end of this fiscal year,” a White House spokesperson was quoted as saying by CNN.<br />
&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The culture minister of Ukraine has resigned amid alleged disagreement with President Volodymyr Zelensky over budget appropriation. Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko tendered his resignation Friday (July 21), owing to “a wave of misunderstanding about the importance of wartime culture.

The culture minister of Ukraine has resigned amid alleged disagreement with President Volodymyr Zelensky over budget appropriation. Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko tendered his resignation Friday (July 21), owing to “a wave of misunderstanding about the importance of wartime culture." "During the war, both private and budget funds for culture are no less important than for drones, because culture is the shield of our identity and our borders," he wrote in a Facebook post. Culture minister had allocated millions for a TV series The alleged misunderstanding emerged between the minister and Zelensky after the former decided to allocate 448 million hryvnias (around $12 million) for the production of a television series. Furthermore, he also wanted to earmark a $13 million package for finishing building a museum to commemorate Ukraine's 1932-33 famine, which Kyiv sees as a deliberate act of genocide by the erstwhile Soviets. Also read: Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism "Such things, which speak of the suffering inflicted on the Ukrainian people for decades by Moscow, should be reflected in the museum," he had told a US radio. "If someone says that the museum should not be built during the war, let them give arguments other than that it is necessary to spend money on reconstruction. There are funds," he said unapologetically. Zelensky objects Tkachenko’s lavish plans ended up putting him at odds with the President himself. Zelensky on Thursday (July 20) urged his government to rein in government spending while the nation was at war with Russia. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: Wheat prices soar after Russia threatens ships × “In a time of war like this the maximum amount of state attention and therefore state resources should go to defense,” Zelensky said in his nightly video address, after having a conversation with Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. He also reportedly asked the PM to consider “changing” the culture minister. Ukraine’s funding woes The development comes as several US lawmakers and staffers express concerns that Ukraine’s coffers could run dry by mid-summer. White House in May said that the administration was not planning to ask Congress for additional funding for Ukraine before the end of September, indicating that Kyiv could be left to fend for itself if the funding crunch takes a toll on the war-torn nation’s defence. Also read: “Thanks to the bipartisan Congressional support for Ukraine, we believe we have the resources we need through the end of this fiscal year,” a White House spokesperson was quoted as saying by CNN. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine’s culture minister resigns amid ‘misunderstanding’ over budget allocation

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- As the Crimea Bridge with strategic importance was blown up it has come to a standstill. Russia held Ukraine responsible for the alleged attack. Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed to retaliate but why is it so important for Putin? Watch WION's report.

Why is the Crimea Bridge important for Putin?

Following the grain deal crisis the repercussions are more clear than ever. Geopolitical tensions are triggering a potential surge in food costs with wheat and corn prices skyrocketing. While global inflation appears to be easing there's a new cause for concern rising food prices. Wheat and corn are on a roller coaster ride due to Russia's latest decision to surprisingly withdraw from a crucial grain deal with Ukraine.

Russia's grain deal withdrawal sparks food price surge

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked the country's ambassador to the United Kingdom, Vadym Prystaiko, on Friday, after he denounced the president's response to a row over British military aid.</p>

<p>Prystaiko had condemned Zelensky's sarcastic remarks to suggestions that came from British Defence Minister Ben Wallace that Ukraine should exhibit more gratitude for the arms and ammunition supplied by its allies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky, in a decree that was published on the presidential website, signed the dismissal of Prystaiko. It did not cite the reason for banishment.</p>

<h2><strong>British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace warns Ukraine its allies are 'not Amazon'</strong></h2>

<p>The row began this month at the NATO summit in Vilnius when Wallace said in a press briefing that Britain was 'not an Amazon delivery service' for Ukraine and that Kyiv could express more "gratitude".</p>

<p>Wallace warned that Ukraine had to persuade US lawmakers and "doubting politicians in other countries that it's worth it", and that "whether we like it or not, people want to see gratitude".</p>

<p>Wallace, who was speaking on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Lithuania, while answering a question from a reporter about Zelensky's complaints that Kyiv had not been given a timeline for joining the alliance, recalled the time when he was handed over a shopping list of weapons during his visit to Ukraine.</p>

<p>"You know, we're not Amazon," he said, referring to the giant American tech and retail company. "I told them that last year when I drove 11 hours to be given a list."</p>

<p>The United Kingdom has been one of Kyiv's most persistent supporters since Russia's attack last year. It is the major donor of weapons and trains the Ukrainian troops. PM Rishi Sunak had also released a statement earlier saying that Britain and its allies will increase their support for Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorist-threatens-to-target-indias-foreign-minister-jaishankar-home-minister-amit-shah-618078">Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah</a></p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky says did not understand Wallace's comments</strong></h2>

<p>While responding to Wallace's comments at a press conference, Zelensky said, "We were always grateful to the UK, prime ministers and the minister of defence because the people are always supporting us," he said.</p>

<p>"I didn't know what he meant and how else we should be grateful. Maybe the minister wants something special but we have wonderful relations."</p>

<p>When asked about Wallace's comments, Sunak said that Zelensky had been grateful for the support given so far and that more support would be forthcoming as required.</p>

<p>"President Zelensky has expressed his gratitude for what we have done on a number of occasions," Sunak told a press conference at the summit in Vilnius.</p>

<p>"I completely understand Volodymyr's desire to do everything he can to protect his people and to stop this war, and we will continue to give him the support that he needs."</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian diplomat says Zelensky responded with 'a little bit of sarcasm'&nbsp;to Wallace's comments</strong></h2>

<p>The Ukrainian diplomat agreed with a suggestion from a Sky News interviewer that Zelensky had responded with "a little bit of sarcasm" to Wallace.</p>

<p>"I don't believe that this sarcasm is healthy. We don't have to show the Russians that we have something between us, they have to know that we are working together," Prystaiko added, stressing the need to smooth over relations with the UK.</p>

<p>"If anything happens, Ben can call me and tell me everything he wants," the diplomat said.</p>

<p>Prystaiko served as ambassador to the UK since July 2020. He was previously Ukraine's foreign minister from 2019 to 2020.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked the country's ambassador to the United Kingdom, Vadym Prystaiko, on Friday, after he denounced the president's response to a row over British military aid.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked the country's ambassador to the United Kingdom, Vadym Prystaiko, on Friday, after he denounced the president's response to a row over British military aid. Prystaiko had condemned Zelensky's sarcastic remarks to suggestions that came from British Defence Minister Ben Wallace that Ukraine should exhibit more gratitude for the arms and ammunition supplied by its allies. Zelensky, in a decree that was published on the presidential website, signed the dismissal of Prystaiko. It did not cite the reason for banishment. British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace warns Ukraine its allies are 'not Amazon' The row began this month at the NATO summit in Vilnius when Wallace said in a press briefing that Britain was 'not an Amazon delivery service' for Ukraine and that Kyiv could express more "gratitude". Wallace warned that Ukraine had to persuade US lawmakers and "doubting politicians in other countries that it's worth it", and that "whether we like it or not, people want to see gratitude". Wallace, who was speaking on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Lithuania, while answering a question from a reporter about Zelensky's complaints that Kyiv had not been given a timeline for joining the alliance, recalled the time when he was handed over a shopping list of weapons during his visit to Ukraine. "You know, we're not Amazon," he said, referring to the giant American tech and retail company. "I told them that last year when I drove 11 hours to be given a list." The United Kingdom has been one of Kyiv's most persistent supporters since Russia's attack last year. It is the major donor of weapons and trains the Ukrainian troops. PM Rishi Sunak had also released a statement earlier saying that Britain and its allies will increase their support for Ukraine. Also read: Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah Zelensky says did not understand Wallace's comments While responding to Wallace's comments at a press conference, Zelensky said, "We were always grateful to the UK, prime ministers and the minister of defence because the people are always supporting us," he said. "I didn't know what he meant and how else we should be grateful. Maybe the minister wants something special but we have wonderful relations." When asked about Wallace's comments, Sunak said that Zelensky had been grateful for the support given so far and that more support would be forthcoming as required. "President Zelensky has expressed his gratitude for what we have done on a number of occasions," Sunak told a press conference at the summit in Vilnius. "I completely understand Volodymyr's desire to do everything he can to protect his people and to stop this war, and we will continue to give him the support that he needs." Ukrainian diplomat says Zelensky responded with 'a little bit of sarcasm' to Wallace's comments The Ukrainian diplomat agreed with a suggestion from a Sky News interviewer that Zelensky had responded with "a little bit of sarcasm" to Wallace. "I don't believe that this sarcasm is healthy. We don't have to show the Russians that we have something between us, they have to know that we are working together," Prystaiko added, stressing the need to smooth over relations with the UK. "If anything happens, Ben can call me and tell me everything he wants," the diplomat said. Prystaiko served as ambassador to the UK since July 2020. He was previously Ukraine's foreign minister from 2019 to 2020. (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.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismisses country's ambassador to the United Kingdom

<p>Ukrainian forces have started the use of US-provided cluster munitions in an attempt to dismantle the positions of the Russian troops, a&nbsp;roadblock to Ukraine's summer offensive, reported The Washington Post citing unnamed Ukrainian officials familiar with the matter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine's use of US-supplied cluster munitions against Russian forces has sparked controversy due to the weapons' risks to civilians and their widely banned status. The decision to supply these munitions was made by US President Joe Biden bypassing certain arms export restrictions. US&nbsp;justified the move as a means to support Ukraine's military efforts until more weaponry becomes available.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/fed-fines-deutsche-bank-186-million-for-inefficient-action-to-restrain-money-laundering-617784">Fed fines Deutsche Bank $186 million for inefficient action to restrain money laundering</a></p>

<p>While speaking with the media portal on the condition of anonymity, Ukrainian officials said that these cluster bombs are being used to combat the heavily-fortified Russian trenches which have been trying to slow down Ukrainian advances in the territories it is seeking to retake.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added that officials reportedly said that these cluster munitions will be used to counteract their significant disadvantages in artillery and the number of troops.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ai-powered-sex-robots-may-eliminate-need-for-human-partners-claims-former-google-executive-617766">Robots for sex? Expert warns AI can 'eliminate' the need for human partners</a></p>

<p>Media reports citing officials continued to say that the cluster munitions are being used not only on front-line positions in southeastern Ukraine but also near the Russian-controlled city of Bakhmut. It is to be noted that the battle of Bakhmut has been the site of a prolonged and intense battle during the Russia-Ukraine war since it started in February last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Biden's approval followed by criticism</strong></h2>

<p>US President Joe Biden made a "difficult" decision to authorise the delivery of the controversial cluster munitions to Ukraine. However, this decision has faced opposition from human rights groups, European allies, and some Democrats, who worry about the dangers posed to civilians by these weapons.</p>

<p>Cluster bombs are banned in more than 120 countries. These bombs disperse smaller bomblets over a wide area and therefore pose a significant risk to civilians, especially children. It is because these submunitions can remain unexploded for years after conflicts end.</p>

<p>President Biden circumvented US law that prohibits the transfer of cluster munitions with a "dud rate" exceeding 1 percent. The US president employed a rare provision of the Foreign Assistance Act, citing vital US national security interests.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Comments by Russia and Ukraine&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin warned Ukraine about using cluster munitions, threatening retaliation if they are deployed against Russian forces. It is worth noting that Russia has already employed cluster munitions in populated areas of Ukraine multiple times since the invasion began in 2022, media reports said citing United Nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Israel: Protesters demand complete withdrawal of judicial bill</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-protesters-demand-complete-withdrawal-of-judicial-bill-617793/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>On the other hand, Ukraine has provided assurances that they will not use these weapons against population centers, and added that efforts will be made to clear the deployed areas after their use.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Ukrainian forces have started the use of US-provided cluster munitions in an attempt to dismantle the positions of the Russian troops, a roadblock to Ukraine's summer offensive, reported The Washington Post citing unnamed Ukrainian officials familiar with the matter.

Ukrainian forces have started the use of US-provided cluster munitions in an attempt to dismantle the positions of the Russian troops, a roadblock to Ukraine's summer offensive, reported The Washington Post citing unnamed Ukrainian officials familiar with the matter. Ukraine's use of US-supplied cluster munitions against Russian forces has sparked controversy due to the weapons' risks to civilians and their widely banned status. The decision to supply these munitions was made by US President Joe Biden bypassing certain arms export restrictions. US justified the move as a means to support Ukraine's military efforts until more weaponry becomes available. Also Read | Fed fines Deutsche Bank $186 million for inefficient action to restrain money laundering While speaking with the media portal on the condition of anonymity, Ukrainian officials said that these cluster bombs are being used to combat the heavily-fortified Russian trenches which have been trying to slow down Ukrainian advances in the territories it is seeking to retake. It added that officials reportedly said that these cluster munitions will be used to counteract their significant disadvantages in artillery and the number of troops. Also Read | Robots for sex? Expert warns AI can 'eliminate' the need for human partners Media reports citing officials continued to say that the cluster munitions are being used not only on front-line positions in southeastern Ukraine but also near the Russian-controlled city of Bakhmut. It is to be noted that the battle of Bakhmut has been the site of a prolonged and intense battle during the Russia-Ukraine war since it started in February last year. Biden's approval followed by criticism US President Joe Biden made a "difficult" decision to authorise the delivery of the controversial cluster munitions to Ukraine. However, this decision has faced opposition from human rights groups, European allies, and some Democrats, who worry about the dangers posed to civilians by these weapons. Cluster bombs are banned in more than 120 countries. These bombs disperse smaller bomblets over a wide area and therefore pose a significant risk to civilians, especially children. It is because these submunitions can remain unexploded for years after conflicts end. President Biden circumvented US law that prohibits the transfer of cluster munitions with a "dud rate" exceeding 1 percent. The US president employed a rare provision of the Foreign Assistance Act, citing vital US national security interests. Comments by Russia and Ukraine Russian President Vladimir Putin warned Ukraine about using cluster munitions, threatening retaliation if they are deployed against Russian forces. It is worth noting that Russia has already employed cluster munitions in populated areas of Ukraine multiple times since the invasion began in 2022, media reports said citing United Nations. Watch | Israel: Protesters demand complete withdrawal of judicial bill × On the other hand, Ukraine has provided assurances that they will not use these weapons against population centers, and added that efforts will be made to clear the deployed areas after their use. 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 starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism

<p>Republican Senator Chuck Grassley released an unclassified FBI document on Thursday (July 21) that leveled grave allegations against US President Joe Biden and his son, Hunter Biden, in relation to a criminal bribery scheme involving a Ukrainian company Burisma.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the released document, Burisma's CEO Mykola Zlochevsky was purportedly "coerced" into paying millions of dollars to the Bidens in exchange for their help in getting fired a Ukrainian prosecutor, Viktor Shokin, who was investigating the company for corruption.</p>

<p>The matter is related to the gas firm's executive who was facing challenges in accessing the US oil market due to a corruption investigation by Ukrainian prosecutor Viktor Shokin and was seeking favour from the Bidens.</p>

<p>Fox News earlier reported citing sources said that US President Joe Biden received a substantial payment of $5 million from the executive to curry favours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/fed-fines-deutsche-bank-186-million-for-inefficient-action-to-restrain-money-laundering-617784">Fed fines Deutsche Bank $186 million for inefficient action to restrain money laundering</a></p>

<p>Grassley said that he released the document so that Americans can "read this document for themselves without the filter of politicians or bureaucrats."&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is important to note that Biden's son, Hunter Biden, served on the company's board at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The document, the FBI FD-1023 form, was used by FBI agents to document unverified information provided by confidential human sources (CHS).</p>

<p>The form, dated 30 June 2020, reportedly describes an interviewed source as "highly credible."</p>

<p>As per the form, the confidential human source discussed multiple meetings held with a senior executive from Burisma over several years, starting in 2015. states that the contact with the source was made via a telephonic conversation.</p>

<p>In the form, Burisma's CEO Zlochevsky revealed to the source that he had evidence such as "many text messages and ‘recordings’ to "show he was coerced to make such payments" to the Bidens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ai-powered-sex-robots-may-eliminate-need-for-human-partners-claims-former-google-executive-617766">Robots for sex? Expert warns AI can 'eliminate' the need for human partners</a></p>

<p>"CHS recalled this meeting took place around the time Joe Biden made a public statement about (former) Ukraine Prosecutor General Viktor Shokin being corrupt, and that he should be fired/removed from office," the form states adding, "CHS told Zlochevsky that due to Shokin’s investigation into Burisma, which was made public at this time, it would have a substantial negative impact on Burisma’s prospective IPO in the United States."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Israel: Protesters demand complete withdrawal of judicial bill</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-protesters-demand-complete-withdrawal-of-judicial-bill-617793/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Zlochevsky, in response, said something that insinuated, "Don’t worry Hunter will take care of those issues through his dad."</p>

<p>The form added that the source "did not ask any further questions about what that specifically meant."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"CHS advised Zlochevsky it would be problematic to raise capital in the US given Shokin’s investigation into Burisma as nobody in the US would invest in a company that was the subject of a criminal investigation," the form stated adding,&nbsp;"CHS suggested it would be best if Burisma simply litigate the matter in Ukraine, and pay some attorney $50,000," the form states, but Zlochevsky said Burisma "would likely lose the trial because he could not show that Burisma was innocent."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Republican Senator Chuck Grassley released an unclassified FBI document on Thursday (July 21) that leveled grave allegations against US President Joe Biden and his son, Hunter Biden, in relation to a criminal bribery scheme involving a Ukrainian company Burisma.

Republican Senator Chuck Grassley released an unclassified FBI document on Thursday (July 21) that leveled grave allegations against US President Joe Biden and his son, Hunter Biden, in relation to a criminal bribery scheme involving a Ukrainian company Burisma. According to the released document, Burisma's CEO Mykola Zlochevsky was purportedly "coerced" into paying millions of dollars to the Bidens in exchange for their help in getting fired a Ukrainian prosecutor, Viktor Shokin, who was investigating the company for corruption. The matter is related to the gas firm's executive who was facing challenges in accessing the US oil market due to a corruption investigation by Ukrainian prosecutor Viktor Shokin and was seeking favour from the Bidens. Fox News earlier reported citing sources said that US President Joe Biden received a substantial payment of $5 million from the executive to curry favours. Also Read | Fed fines Deutsche Bank $186 million for inefficient action to restrain money laundering Grassley said that he released the document so that Americans can "read this document for themselves without the filter of politicians or bureaucrats." It is important to note that Biden's son, Hunter Biden, served on the company's board at the time. The document, the FBI FD-1023 form, was used by FBI agents to document unverified information provided by confidential human sources (CHS). The form, dated 30 June 2020, reportedly describes an interviewed source as "highly credible." As per the form, the confidential human source discussed multiple meetings held with a senior executive from Burisma over several years, starting in 2015. states that the contact with the source was made via a telephonic conversation. In the form, Burisma's CEO Zlochevsky revealed to the source that he had evidence such as "many text messages and ‘recordings’ to "show he was coerced to make such payments" to the Bidens. Also Read | Robots for sex? Expert warns AI can 'eliminate' the need for human partners "CHS recalled this meeting took place around the time Joe Biden made a public statement about (former) Ukraine Prosecutor General Viktor Shokin being corrupt, and that he should be fired/removed from office," the form states adding, "CHS told Zlochevsky that due to Shokin’s investigation into Burisma, which was made public at this time, it would have a substantial negative impact on Burisma’s prospective IPO in the United States." Watch | Israel: Protesters demand complete withdrawal of judicial bill × Zlochevsky, in response, said something that insinuated, "Don’t worry Hunter will take care of those issues through his dad." The form added that the source "did not ask any further questions about what that specifically meant." "CHS advised Zlochevsky it would be problematic to raise capital in the US given Shokin’s investigation into Burisma as nobody in the US would invest in a company that was the subject of a criminal investigation," the form stated adding, "CHS suggested it would be best if Burisma simply litigate the matter in Ukraine, and pay some attorney $50,000," the form states, but Zlochevsky said Burisma "would likely lose the trial because he could not show that Burisma was innocent." 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. ×

Bidens 'coerced' Burisma CEO in bribery scheme to get Ukraine prosecutor fired: FBI document

<p>Controversy erupted after a Russian journalist was&nbsp;forced out of the press room before the joint press briefing of Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto and his Ukrainian counterpart&nbsp;Dmytro Kuleba in Islamabad on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The journalist identified as Ruslan Bekniyazov is the senior correspondent of the ITAR-TASS news agency in Pakistan. The incident took place on the first day of Kuleba's two-day bilateral visit to the South Asian nation.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to local media reports,&nbsp;Bekniyazov was pushed out of the press room at the suggestion of the Ukrainian embassy in Pakistan. The officials conveyed to the foreign office that no Russian journalists be allowed to attend the joint presser.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the incident, the Russian embassy in Pakistan took to Twitter to release a statement and sought clarity on the issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Russian embassy in Pakistan stands in solidarity with the Pakistani colleagues of a Russian journalist&nbsp;@RBekniyazov. It is inadmissible to violate reporters’ rights to access information,” the embassy tweeted.</p>

<p>"It is inadmissible to violate reporter's right to access information, In this regard, the Embassy requested the @ForeignOfficePk to provide clarity on the incident," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Pakistan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7f94c06-db16-4a0d-90c5-6be1afb827ee" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-07-20%20231909.png" /></p>

<p>Notably, the tweet was soon deleted, suggesting that some communication had taken place between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Pak received first shipment of oil from Russia</strong></h2>

<p>Experts stated that the incident can offset the relations between Russia and Pakistan after the latter imported the first shipment of oil from Moscow in April. At a time when Pakistan is still facing economic hardships, despite securing a bailout package from International Monetary Fund (IMF), the cheap Russian crude offers an opportunity to balance its cash books.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-purchases-first-cargo-of-discounted-russian-oil-584524"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan purchases first cargo of discounted Russian oil</strong></a></p>

<p>On Friday, during the meeting, both Pakistan and Ukraine denied that an arms supply deal was in place in the backdrop of the Russian invasion.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I can confirm there are no intergovernmental arrangements between Pakistan and Ukraine in this area," said&nbsp;Kuleba,&nbsp;whose visit was the first&nbsp;by any foreign minister of Ukraine since the two countries established bilateral ties in 1993.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-pakistans-economic-crisis-getting-worse-550882"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Is Pakistan's economic crisis getting worse?</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-19="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-30="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-pakistans-economic-crisis-getting-worse-550882/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>Despite toeing a neutral stance on the war, reports have emerged multiple times, suggesting that Pakistan may have been supplying arms to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Akin to Kuleba,&nbsp;Bilawal also rebutted such reports, claiming that Pakistan&nbsp;was strictly adhering to the policy of non-partisanship.</p>

<p>“We find it regrettable that certain media outlets are trying to publish unfounded reports alleging military supplies to Ukraine,” said Bilawal, adding,&nbsp;“Since the war began we have not concluded any agreement on defence supplies to Ukraine keeping in view our principled and consistent non-partisan position."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Controversy erupted after a Russian journalist was forced out of the press room before the joint press briefing of Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto and his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba in Islamabad on Thursday.

Controversy erupted after a Russian journalist was forced out of the press room before the joint press briefing of Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto and his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba in Islamabad on Thursday. The journalist identified as Ruslan Bekniyazov is the senior correspondent of the ITAR-TASS news agency in Pakistan. The incident took place on the first day of Kuleba's two-day bilateral visit to the South Asian nation. According to local media reports, Bekniyazov was pushed out of the press room at the suggestion of the Ukrainian embassy in Pakistan. The officials conveyed to the foreign office that no Russian journalists be allowed to attend the joint presser. After the incident, the Russian embassy in Pakistan took to Twitter to release a statement and sought clarity on the issue. “Russian embassy in Pakistan stands in solidarity with the Pakistani colleagues of a Russian journalist @RBekniyazov. It is inadmissible to violate reporters’ rights to access information,” the embassy tweeted. "It is inadmissible to violate reporter's right to access information, In this regard, the Embassy requested the @ForeignOfficePk to provide clarity on the incident," it added. Notably, the tweet was soon deleted, suggesting that some communication had taken place between the two countries. Pak received first shipment of oil from Russia Experts stated that the incident can offset the relations between Russia and Pakistan after the latter imported the first shipment of oil from Moscow in April. At a time when Pakistan is still facing economic hardships, despite securing a bailout package from International Monetary Fund (IMF), the cheap Russian crude offers an opportunity to balance its cash books. Also read | Pakistan purchases first cargo of discounted Russian oil On Friday, during the meeting, both Pakistan and Ukraine denied that an arms supply deal was in place in the backdrop of the Russian invasion. “I can confirm there are no intergovernmental arrangements between Pakistan and Ukraine in this area," said Kuleba, whose visit was the first by any foreign minister of Ukraine since the two countries established bilateral ties in 1993. WATCH | Is Pakistan's economic crisis getting worse? Despite toeing a neutral stance on the war, reports have emerged multiple times, suggesting that Pakistan may have been supplying arms to Ukraine. Akin to Kuleba, Bilawal also rebutted such reports, claiming that Pakistan was strictly adhering to the policy of non-partisanship. “We find it regrettable that certain media outlets are trying to publish unfounded reports alleging military supplies to Ukraine,” said Bilawal, adding, “Since the war began we have not concluded any agreement on defence supplies to Ukraine keeping in view our principled and consistent non-partisan position." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russian journalist expelled from joint presser of Ukrainian, Pakistan foreign ministers

<p>The European Union's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell on Thursday (July 20) put forward a proposal of a 20 billion euro (USD 22.4 billion) fund for weapons, ammunitions and other military help for Ukraine. However, the plan would need more scrutiny from EU governments before it can go ahead. High Representative Josep Borrell presented the plan in EU foreign ministers' meeting in Brussels. This was part of an effort to put European support for Ukraine on a longer-term footing. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is in its second year now.</p>

<p>The proposal comes amid an international drive to give Ukraine long-term security assurances, as announced by members of the G7 on the sidelines of last week's NATO summit in Vilnius.</p>

<p>"We proposed the creation of a dedicated section under the European Peace Facility to provide up to 5 billion euros a year for the next four years for the defence needs of Ukraine," Borrell told a news conference after the meeting.</p>

<p><strong>Gravitas: Why are Wagner mercenaries training near Poland?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-are-wagner-mercenaries-training-near-poland-617916/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"This is the evaluation of the needs and the cost of our long-term security commitments to Ukraine," he said.</p>

<p>The European Peace Facility (EPF) was created in 2021. It is meant to finance actions that seek to prevent conflicts, build peace and strengthen international security. The EPF was initially worth 5.7 billion euros. It has since grown to 12 billion.</p>

<p>The facility is used to reimburse EU countries for at least part of the cost of weapons, ammunition and other military aid that they give to nations outside the bloc.</p>

<h2><strong>A welcome idea</strong></h2>

<p>The idea of longer-term military aid for Ukraine was welcomed by several ministers at the meeting but they said that the details about the funding would be subject to further discussions. Their governments would have to pay for any boost to the fund.</p>

<p>"A fund for the defence of Ukraine is going to be developed," Portuguese Foreign Minister Joao Gomes Cravinho told reporters. "As for the amounts, we are not there yet."</p>

<p>Borrell said that detailed talks among EU foreign and defence ministers on this fund will take place during a ministerial meeting which will take place at the end of August in Spain.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-starts-firing-cluster-munitions-against-russian-forces-amid-criticism-617861">Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism</a></strong></p>

<p>It was a landmark decision last year when the European Union decided to finance arms supply to Ukraine. Before that, the EU focused only on economic and political co-operation. It avoided involvement in armed conflicts.</p>

<p>But the debate on the new proposal are unlikely to be straightforward.</p>

<p>Hungary is holding up the disbursement of 500 million euros in current EPF funds for Ukraine aid, demanding that Hungarian bank OTP first be removed from a Ukrainian blacklist.</p>

<p>Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said Budapest would take the same stance with the new proposal.</p>

<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>

<p><strong><em>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</em></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The European Union's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell on Thursday (July 20) put forward a proposal of a 20 billion euro (USD 22.4 billion) fund for weapons, ammunitions and other military help for Ukraine.

The European Union's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell on Thursday (July 20) put forward a proposal of a 20 billion euro (USD 22.4 billion) fund for weapons, ammunitions and other military help for Ukraine. However, the plan would need more scrutiny from EU governments before it can go ahead. High Representative Josep Borrell presented the plan in EU foreign ministers' meeting in Brussels. This was part of an effort to put European support for Ukraine on a longer-term footing. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is in its second year now. The proposal comes amid an international drive to give Ukraine long-term security assurances, as announced by members of the G7 on the sidelines of last week's NATO summit in Vilnius. "We proposed the creation of a dedicated section under the European Peace Facility to provide up to 5 billion euros a year for the next four years for the defence needs of Ukraine," Borrell told a news conference after the meeting. Gravitas: Why are Wagner mercenaries training near Poland? × "This is the evaluation of the needs and the cost of our long-term security commitments to Ukraine," he said. The European Peace Facility (EPF) was created in 2021. It is meant to finance actions that seek to prevent conflicts, build peace and strengthen international security. The EPF was initially worth 5.7 billion euros. It has since grown to 12 billion. The facility is used to reimburse EU countries for at least part of the cost of weapons, ammunition and other military aid that they give to nations outside the bloc. A welcome idea The idea of longer-term military aid for Ukraine was welcomed by several ministers at the meeting but they said that the details about the funding would be subject to further discussions. Their governments would have to pay for any boost to the fund. "A fund for the defence of Ukraine is going to be developed," Portuguese Foreign Minister Joao Gomes Cravinho told reporters. "As for the amounts, we are not there yet." Borrell said that detailed talks among EU foreign and defence ministers on this fund will take place during a ministerial meeting which will take place at the end of August in Spain. Also Read | Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism It was a landmark decision last year when the European Union decided to finance arms supply to Ukraine. Before that, the EU focused only on economic and political co-operation. It avoided involvement in armed conflicts. But the debate on the new proposal are unlikely to be straightforward. Hungary is holding up the disbursement of 500 million euros in current EPF funds for Ukraine aid, demanding that Hungarian bank OTP first be removed from a Ukrainian blacklist. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said Budapest would take the same stance with the new proposal. (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 ×

EU kicks off talks on 20 billion euro military fund for Ukraine

The Ukrainian counterattack is not going as expected. The counteroffensive has been planned along these lines thus far, with North Swift Battlefield gaining little surprise element and little impact.

Ukrainian President aide admits, counteroffensive will take long

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, a crucial bridge that connects southern Russia to Crimea has once more been broken, forcing the evacuation of more than 2,000 people, and Moscow is blaming Ukraine. The assault might be a component of Ukraine's on-going counteroffensive to retake land that has been captured.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine targets Russia's military base in Crimea

<p>Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday (July 19) that it would deem all ships travelling to Ukrainian ports to be carriers of military cargo. It added that countries the flag of which would potentially fly on the ships will be considered to be party to the conflict on the Ukrainian side. Russia has taken this stance after its decision this week to pull out of the United Nations-brokered Black Sea grain import deal. This deal had previously guaranteed the safety of Ukrainian exports for the past one year.</p>

<p>"In connection with the termination of the Black Sea Initiative and the end of the maritime humanitarian corridor, from 00.00 Moscow time on July 20, 2023 (2100 GMT on Wednesday) all ships proceeding to Ukrainian ports in Black Sea waters will be considered as potential carriers of military cargo," the ministry said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | BRICS Summit 2023: FM Lavrov to represent Russia at the Summit</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2023-fm-lavrov-to-represent-russia-at-the-summit-617514/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The ministry also said that Russia was also declaring southeastern and northwestern parts of the Black Sea's international waters to be temporarily unsafe for navigation. The ministry did not give details about the parts of the sea which would be affected.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin stikes conciliatory tone</strong></h2>

<p>Just when Russian Defence Ministry appeared to raise stakes, Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared to strike a conciliatory tone. He said that Russia can 'consider' returning to the grain deal if Russia's demands are "fully met".</p>

<p>"The continuation of the grain deal in its current form has lost all meaning," Putin said at a government meeting, "of course we will consider the possibility of returning to it -- but only under one condition: if all principles under which Russia agreed to participate in the deal are fully taken into account and fulfilled."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Spike in wheat prices</strong></h2>

<p>Wheat prices rose on the same day Russia said it was ceasing its participation in the grain deal. There was 3 per cent increase in wheat futures. The prices hit a high of 689.25 cents per bushel. The prices remained well below the peak they reached in May last year. The price at that time was 1177.5 cents per bushel.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia attacked grain infrastructure, accuses Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday (July 19), Ukraine accused Russia of attacking grain infrastructure during overnight strikes that were aimed at two of Ukraine's Black Sea ports. Ukraine said it will not be intimidated from working to keep grain exports moving out of them.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-boss-yevgeny-prigozhin-seen-first-time-in-public-post-failed-coup-attempt-617578">Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin seen first time in public post failed coup attempt</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia has as of now, attacked the Odesa region for second consecutive night</p>

<p>"Russian terrorists absolutely deliberately targeted the infrastructure of the grain deal," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on the Telegram messaging app. "Every Russian missile - is a strike not only on Ukraine but on everyone in the world who wants normal and safe life."</p>

<p>Due to its significant grains exports, Ukraine is often called 'breadbasket of the world'. After Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. The grain exports were impeded. This had raised the spectre of a global food crisis.</p>

<p>Turkey and the United Nations then brokered a deal between Ukraine and Russia. The Black Sea grain deal was intended to facilitate Russian and Ukrainian agricultural exports. The deal expired on July 17. Russia declined to renew its participation.</p>

<p>There has been a constant complaint from Moscow that a parallel deal to ease rules for Russian exports of food and fertilisers was not being implemented. Kyiv has called for security guarantees to allow shipping to resume without Russian participation.</p>

<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>

<p><strong><em>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</em></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday (July 19) that it would deem all ships travelling to Ukrainian ports to be carriers of military cargo. It added that countries the flag of which would potentially fly on the ships will be considered to be party to the conflict on the Ukrainian side.

Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday (July 19) that it would deem all ships travelling to Ukrainian ports to be carriers of military cargo. It added that countries the flag of which would potentially fly on the ships will be considered to be party to the conflict on the Ukrainian side. Russia has taken this stance after its decision this week to pull out of the United Nations-brokered Black Sea grain import deal. This deal had previously guaranteed the safety of Ukrainian exports for the past one year. "In connection with the termination of the Black Sea Initiative and the end of the maritime humanitarian corridor, from 00.00 Moscow time on July 20, 2023 (2100 GMT on Wednesday) all ships proceeding to Ukrainian ports in Black Sea waters will be considered as potential carriers of military cargo," the ministry said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app. Watch | BRICS Summit 2023: FM Lavrov to represent Russia at the Summit × The ministry also said that Russia was also declaring southeastern and northwestern parts of the Black Sea's international waters to be temporarily unsafe for navigation. The ministry did not give details about the parts of the sea which would be affected. Putin stikes conciliatory tone Just when Russian Defence Ministry appeared to raise stakes, Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared to strike a conciliatory tone. He said that Russia can 'consider' returning to the grain deal if Russia's demands are "fully met". "The continuation of the grain deal in its current form has lost all meaning," Putin said at a government meeting, "of course we will consider the possibility of returning to it -- but only under one condition: if all principles under which Russia agreed to participate in the deal are fully taken into account and fulfilled." Spike in wheat prices Wheat prices rose on the same day Russia said it was ceasing its participation in the grain deal. There was 3 per cent increase in wheat futures. The prices hit a high of 689.25 cents per bushel. The prices remained well below the peak they reached in May last year. The price at that time was 1177.5 cents per bushel. Russia attacked grain infrastructure, accuses Ukraine On Wednesday (July 19), Ukraine accused Russia of attacking grain infrastructure during overnight strikes that were aimed at two of Ukraine's Black Sea ports. Ukraine said it will not be intimidated from working to keep grain exports moving out of them. Also Read | Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin seen first time in public post failed coup attempt Russia has as of now, attacked the Odesa region for second consecutive night "Russian terrorists absolutely deliberately targeted the infrastructure of the grain deal," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on the Telegram messaging app. "Every Russian missile - is a strike not only on Ukraine but on everyone in the world who wants normal and safe life." Due to its significant grains exports, Ukraine is often called 'breadbasket of the world'. After Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. The grain exports were impeded. This had raised the spectre of a global food crisis. Turkey and the United Nations then brokered a deal between Ukraine and Russia. The Black Sea grain deal was intended to facilitate Russian and Ukrainian agricultural exports. The deal expired on July 17. Russia declined to renew its participation. There has been a constant complaint from Moscow that a parallel deal to ease rules for Russian exports of food and fertilisers was not being implemented. Kyiv has called for security guarantees to allow shipping to resume without Russian participation. (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 ×

Blow hot blow cold? Putin sounds conciliatory but defence ministry raises stakes on grain ships

<p>The United States on Wednesday announced additional security assistance of about $1.3 billion for Ukraine in its war with Russia, the package including air defence capabilities, drones and munitions.</p>

<p>"This announcement represents the beginning of a contracting process to provide additional priority capabilities to Ukraine," the Pentagon said in a statement.</p>

<p>The United States is using funds in its Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) program, which allows President Joe Biden's administration to buy weapons from industry rather than pull from US&nbsp;weapons stocks.</p>

<p>The package includes four National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) and munitions; 152 millimetre artillery rounds; mine clearing equipment; and drones, according to the Pentagon.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-strike-on-ukraines-mykolaiv-injures-nine-including-children-617642">Russian strike on Ukraine's Mykolaiv injures nine, including children</a></p>

<p>The US&nbsp;Department of Defence announced the aid a day after a virtual meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, allies assisting Ukraine as its forces press a counteroffensive against Russian troops occupying Ukrainian territory.</p>

<p>Delivery of the weapons and systems depends on their availability and production timeline.</p>

<p>The Pentagon has provided more than $10.8 billion in security assistance for Ukraine under the USAI in fiscal 2023, in seven separate tranches. The planned package would be the eighth. In the fiscal year that ended September 30, 2022, Washington put $6.3 billion worth of USAI funds to work buying for Ukraine's defence.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine's Real Hero: The General who masterminded the counter-offensive against Russia</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraines-real-hero-the-general-who-masterminded-the-counter-offensive-against-russia-617170/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Overall, the US&nbsp;has sent over $40 billion in the form of security and military assistance to Ukraine since Russia invaded in February 2022.</p>

<p>The package includes two different types of loitering munitions, the Phoenix Ghost drone made by AVEVEX, a private company in California, and the Switchblade, made by AeroVironment.</p>

<p>Earlier this month, the United States announced that it will send Ukraine cluster munitions - prohibited by more than 100 countries - to Ukraine. Human rights groups and some US&nbsp;allies, including Germany and Canada, oppose that decision.</p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<main>
<section>
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" data-gtm-yt-inspected-19="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-31="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</section>
</main>


The United States on Wednesday announced additional security assistance of about $1.3 billion for Ukraine in its war with Russia, the package including air defence capabilities, drones and munitions.

The United States on Wednesday announced additional security assistance of about $1.3 billion for Ukraine in its war with Russia, the package including air defence capabilities, drones and munitions. "This announcement represents the beginning of a contracting process to provide additional priority capabilities to Ukraine," the Pentagon said in a statement. The United States is using funds in its Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) program, which allows President Joe Biden's administration to buy weapons from industry rather than pull from US weapons stocks. The package includes four National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) and munitions; 152 millimetre artillery rounds; mine clearing equipment; and drones, according to the Pentagon. ALSO READ | Russian strike on Ukraine's Mykolaiv injures nine, including children The US Department of Defence announced the aid a day after a virtual meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, allies assisting Ukraine as its forces press a counteroffensive against Russian troops occupying Ukrainian territory. Delivery of the weapons and systems depends on their availability and production timeline. The Pentagon has provided more than $10.8 billion in security assistance for Ukraine under the USAI in fiscal 2023, in seven separate tranches. The planned package would be the eighth. In the fiscal year that ended September 30, 2022, Washington put $6.3 billion worth of USAI funds to work buying for Ukraine's defence. WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine's Real Hero: The General who masterminded the counter-offensive against Russia Overall, the US has sent over $40 billion in the form of security and military assistance to Ukraine since Russia invaded in February 2022. The package includes two different types of loitering munitions, the Phoenix Ghost drone made by AVEVEX, a private company in California, and the Switchblade, made by AeroVironment. Earlier this month, the United States announced that it will send Ukraine cluster munitions - prohibited by more than 100 countries - to Ukraine. Human rights groups and some US allies, including Germany and Canada, oppose that decision. 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

US provides Ukraine with additional military aid worth $1.3 bn

The Crimea Bridge was blown up. The bridge with strategic importance came to a standstill. Russia held Ukraine responsible for the alleged attack. Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed to retaliate. But why is it soo important for Putin?

Why is the Crimea bridge important for Putin? Is it a testament to Putin's strategic vision?

<p>Worsening the relations, Kremlin on Thursday announced restrictions on the movement of British diplomats working in Russia. Moscow said the British workers&nbsp;will have to notify authorities about their movements in advance, according to an AFP report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian foreign ministry summoned&nbsp;Britain's charge d'affaires Tom Dodd and informed&nbsp;him of a "notification procedure for the movement of employees of British diplomatic missions".</p>

<p>The procedure will be imposed on&nbsp;"accredited personnel" of the British embassy in Moscow and the consulate general in Yekaterinburg, in the Urals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The diplomats will need to provide information of at least&nbsp;five working days of travel outside the "120-kilometre (75-mile) free movement zone". Additionally, the information provided should contain "the timings, purpose, type of trip, planned business contacts, accompanying persons, mode of transport, places of visit and accommodation as well as the route of the trip".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-kyiv-used-missiles-from-uk-to-attack-luhansk-says-russia-592157"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Ukraine war: Kyiv used missiles from UK to attack Luhansk, claims Russia</strong></a></p>

<p>Moscow defended the decision saying it was introduced to counter the&nbsp;"hostile actions" of London, a key ally of Ukraine. It added the caveat that measures will not apply to the British ambassador and several other diplomats.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Britain continues to impose sanctions&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, the British government imposed sanctions on&nbsp;13 individuals and businesses in the Central African Republic, Mali and Sudan that had alleged links to Russia's now-disbanded&nbsp;Wagner Group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Wherever Wagner operates, it has a catastrophic effect on communities, worsens existing conflicts and damages the reputations of countries that host them," said Britain's minister for Development and Africa Andrew Mitchell.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-war-exposes-the-weaknesses-in-uk-military-617070"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine war exposes the weaknesses in UK military</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-war-exposes-the-weaknesses-in-uk-military-617070/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>On Monday (July 17), Russian Education Minister&nbsp;Sergey Kravtsov was also placed on the sanctions list by the Rishi Sunak administration for hatching the forced deportation of Ukrainian children programme. Overall, 13 new sanctions were imposed, in response to&nbsp;"Russia's attempts to destroy Ukrainian national identity".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In his chilling programme of forced child deportation, and the hate-filled propaganda spewed by his lackeys, we see (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's true intention - to wipe Ukraine from the map," said British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this month, Moscow informed it had brought over 700,00 children from the conflict zones in Ukraine into Russian territory for protection. However, the Western world reacted sharply to the announcement saying Russia was sending these kids to "re-education camps" where they were being exposed to&nbsp;Russia-centric academic, cultural, patriotic, and military education.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Worsening the relations, Kremlin on Thursday announced restrictions on the movement of British diplomats working in Russia. Moscow said the British workers will have to notify authorities about their movements in advance, according to an AFP report.

Worsening the relations, Kremlin on Thursday announced restrictions on the movement of British diplomats working in Russia. Moscow said the British workers will have to notify authorities about their movements in advance, according to an AFP report. The Russian foreign ministry summoned Britain's charge d'affaires Tom Dodd and informed him of a "notification procedure for the movement of employees of British diplomatic missions". The procedure will be imposed on "accredited personnel" of the British embassy in Moscow and the consulate general in Yekaterinburg, in the Urals. The diplomats will need to provide information of at least five working days of travel outside the "120-kilometre (75-mile) free movement zone". Additionally, the information provided should contain "the timings, purpose, type of trip, planned business contacts, accompanying persons, mode of transport, places of visit and accommodation as well as the route of the trip". Also read | Ukraine war: Kyiv used missiles from UK to attack Luhansk, claims Russia Moscow defended the decision saying it was introduced to counter the "hostile actions" of London, a key ally of Ukraine. It added the caveat that measures will not apply to the British ambassador and several other diplomats. Britain continues to impose sanctions Earlier in the day, the British government imposed sanctions on 13 individuals and businesses in the Central African Republic, Mali and Sudan that had alleged links to Russia's now-disbanded Wagner Group. "Wherever Wagner operates, it has a catastrophic effect on communities, worsens existing conflicts and damages the reputations of countries that host them," said Britain's minister for Development and Africa Andrew Mitchell. Watch | Ukraine war exposes the weaknesses in UK military × On Monday (July 17), Russian Education Minister Sergey Kravtsov was also placed on the sanctions list by the Rishi Sunak administration for hatching the forced deportation of Ukrainian children programme. Overall, 13 new sanctions were imposed, in response to "Russia's attempts to destroy Ukrainian national identity". "In his chilling programme of forced child deportation, and the hate-filled propaganda spewed by his lackeys, we see (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's true intention - to wipe Ukraine from the map," said British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly. Earlier this month, Moscow informed it had brought over 700,00 children from the conflict zones in Ukraine into Russian territory for protection. However, the Western world reacted sharply to the announcement saying Russia was sending these kids to "re-education camps" where they were being exposed to Russia-centric academic, cultural, patriotic, and military education. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Moscow restricts movement of British diplomats in Russia. Know why

Russia attacked the Odesa region for the second consecutive night. The strikes come after Moscow quit on Monday a year-old grain deal allowing the safe passage of Ukrainian grain through the black sea. The grain deal termination prompted the United Nations to warn it risked creating hunger around the world. Let's take a look at what is happening in Odesa, and the significance of the port city.

'Mass revenge strike': Moscow hits Odesa; 60,000 tonnes of grain destroyed

Wheat prices have risen sharply on global markets after Russia said it would treat ships heading for Ukrainian ports as potential military targets.

Russia-Ukraine war: Wheat prices soar after Russia threatens ships

<p>Russia is reportedly amassing 100,000 troops to obliterate Kyiv’s defences in the Kharkiv region, the Ukrainian army has said. Moscow is challenging Kyiv’s defences in the eastern sector of Kupiansk as Ukrainian forces are concentrating on the counteroffensive efforts on the southern front, Ukraine’s Army Command East spokesman Serhiy Cherevatyi said on Monday.</p>

<p>He said that Russia has gathered around 100,000 troops, 900 tanks and 555 artillery systems in the area.</p>

<p>“They are concentrating everything in order to break through our defence. Our soldiers are firmly on the defensive. They do not allow the enemy to seize the initiative,” Cherevatyi was quoted as saying by Politico.</p>

<p>Cherevatyi also said that Russia had ordered Storm-Z ex-convict battalions to prepare for battle and was firing more than 500 shells per day at Ukrainian forces around Kupyansk.</p>

<p>Kupyansk is a town in the northeastern Kharkiv region of Ukraine. Kyiv recaptured the town, which previously had a population of 25,000 people&nbsp;in September last year.</p>

<p>Ukrainian Army Land Forces Commander General Oleksandr Syrsky also confirmed that Russia has gathered its forces to attack the Kupiansk region, however, it has been unable to break through so far.</p>

<p>Syrsky commands Ukraine’s operations around the key battleground of Bakhmut, where Kyiv has managed to seize the initiative and retake high ground around the destroyed city after Russia occupied it earlier this year.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia trains guns at&nbsp;Black Sea coast</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Russia launched fresh missile attacks on Ukraine's Black Sea coast, days after it backed out of extending the grain deal.</p>

<p>The missiles damaged 60,000 tonnes of grain and damaged storage infrastructure.</p>

<p>Agriculture Minister Mykola Solskyi said a "considerable amount" of export infrastructure was out of operation, BBC reported.</p>

<p>He said that the 60,000 tonnes destroyed in the strike were "supposed to be loaded on a large-tonnage ship and sent through the grain corridor 60 days ago".</p>

<p>Hours later, Russia's defence ministry declared that from Wednesday night, any ships heading to Ukrainian ports would be viewed as potential carriers of military cargo and party to the conflict.</p>

<p>Some north-western and south-eastern areas of the Black Sea would be temporarily dangerous for shipping, it added.</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said each missile strike was a blow not just to Ukraine, but to "everyone in the world striving for a normal and safe life".</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Russia is reportedly amassing 100,000 troops to obliterate Kyiv’s defences in the Kharkiv region, the Ukrainian army has said. Moscow is challenging Kyiv’s defences in the eastern sector of Kupiansk as Ukrainian forces are concentrating on the counteroffensive efforts on the southern front, Ukraine’s Army Command East spokesman Serhiy Cherevatyi said on Monday.

Russia is reportedly amassing 100,000 troops to obliterate Kyiv’s defences in the Kharkiv region, the Ukrainian army has said. Moscow is challenging Kyiv’s defences in the eastern sector of Kupiansk as Ukrainian forces are concentrating on the counteroffensive efforts on the southern front, Ukraine’s Army Command East spokesman Serhiy Cherevatyi said on Monday. He said that Russia has gathered around 100,000 troops, 900 tanks and 555 artillery systems in the area. “They are concentrating everything in order to break through our defence. Our soldiers are firmly on the defensive. They do not allow the enemy to seize the initiative,” Cherevatyi was quoted as saying by Politico. Cherevatyi also said that Russia had ordered Storm-Z ex-convict battalions to prepare for battle and was firing more than 500 shells per day at Ukrainian forces around Kupyansk. Kupyansk is a town in the northeastern Kharkiv region of Ukraine. Kyiv recaptured the town, which previously had a population of 25,000 people in September last year. Ukrainian Army Land Forces Commander General Oleksandr Syrsky also confirmed that Russia has gathered its forces to attack the Kupiansk region, however, it has been unable to break through so far. Syrsky commands Ukraine’s operations around the key battleground of Bakhmut, where Kyiv has managed to seize the initiative and retake high ground around the destroyed city after Russia occupied it earlier this year. Russia trains guns at Black Sea coast Meanwhile, Russia launched fresh missile attacks on Ukraine's Black Sea coast, days after it backed out of extending the grain deal. The missiles damaged 60,000 tonnes of grain and damaged storage infrastructure. Agriculture Minister Mykola Solskyi said a "considerable amount" of export infrastructure was out of operation, BBC reported. He said that the 60,000 tonnes destroyed in the strike were "supposed to be loaded on a large-tonnage ship and sent through the grain corridor 60 days ago". Hours later, Russia's defence ministry declared that from Wednesday night, any ships heading to Ukrainian ports would be viewed as potential carriers of military cargo and party to the conflict. Some north-western and south-eastern areas of the Black Sea would be temporarily dangerous for shipping, it added. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said each missile strike was a blow not just to Ukraine, but to "everyone in the world striving for a normal and safe life". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia amassing 100,000 troops to launch attack on Kharkiv: Ukraine

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidrLnTMwbK0IE1" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>After Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal, which allowed the safe passage for Ukrainian grain exports, global wheat prices have exponentially shot up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday, wheat prices on the European stock exchange soared by nearly nine per cent from the previous day to $284 per tonne. US wheat futures saw a jump of 8.5 per cent — the highest daily rise since the war broke out in February last year. Similarly, corn prices were up five to four per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The immediate effect of the suspension is that millions of tonnes of wheat that was bound for Africa and West Asia has been stranded. While the wheat remains stuck, the Russian side has started "deliberately targeting the grain deal infrastructure", according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts argue that the domino effect will be reflected in global inflation which had calmed down after a long time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Russia’s decision to suspend participation in the Black Sea Grain Initiative will worsen food insecurity and harm millions of vulnerable people around the world,” said Adam Hodge, a spokesperson for the US National Security Council.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-russia-formally-backs-out-of-black-sea-grain-deal-what-happens-now-616637" target="_blank"><strong>Explained | Russia formally backs out of Black Sea grain deal. What happens now?</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>What is the Black Sea grain deal?</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine is one of the world’s biggest exporters of food grains, such as wheat and corn, and has played a significant role in the UN’s food aid programmes. Therefore, when Russia invaded and blocked Ukrainian ports, prices of food grains soared across parts of the world.</p>

<p>After months of jeopardy, a deal brokered by Turkey and the United Nations in July last year lifted a Russian naval blockade of Ukraine's Black Sea cities and set terms for millions of tonnes of wheat and other grain to start flowing from Ukraine's filled silos and ports.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-withdraws-from-ukraine-grain-deal-can-zelensky-bank-on-eu-617063" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Russia withdraws from Ukraine grain deal, can Zelensky bank on EU?</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-withdraws-from-ukraine-grain-deal-can-zelensky-bank-on-eu-617063/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Since then, the deal's expiration date has been extended multiple times with Moscow waiting till the eleventh hour to grant an extension. However, it has done so reluctantly as the demands set by Russian President Vladimir Putin have not been met by the Western nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prior to calling off the deal on Monday, Moscow wanted its Russian Agricultural Bank (Rosselkhozbank) to be reconnected to the SWIFT international payments system after it was cut off due to sanctions by the European Union in June 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Western world has accused Moscow of using food commodities, after gas as a means to leverage its position in the ongoing conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


After Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal, which allowed the safe passage for Ukrainian grain exports, global wheat prices have exponentially shot up. On Wednesday, wheat prices on the European stock exchange soared by nearly nine per cent from the previous day to $284 per tonne.

After Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal, which allowed the safe passage for Ukrainian grain exports, global wheat prices have exponentially shot up. On Wednesday, wheat prices on the European stock exchange soared by nearly nine per cent from the previous day to $284 per tonne. US wheat futures saw a jump of 8.5 per cent — the highest daily rise since the war broke out in February last year. Similarly, corn prices were up five to four per cent. The immediate effect of the suspension is that millions of tonnes of wheat that was bound for Africa and West Asia has been stranded. While the wheat remains stuck, the Russian side has started "deliberately targeting the grain deal infrastructure", according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Experts argue that the domino effect will be reflected in global inflation which had calmed down after a long time. “Russia’s decision to suspend participation in the Black Sea Grain Initiative will worsen food insecurity and harm millions of vulnerable people around the world,” said Adam Hodge, a spokesperson for the US National Security Council. Explained | Russia formally backs out of Black Sea grain deal. What happens now? What is the Black Sea grain deal? Ukraine is one of the world’s biggest exporters of food grains, such as wheat and corn, and has played a significant role in the UN’s food aid programmes. Therefore, when Russia invaded and blocked Ukrainian ports, prices of food grains soared across parts of the world. After months of jeopardy, a deal brokered by Turkey and the United Nations in July last year lifted a Russian naval blockade of Ukraine's Black Sea cities and set terms for millions of tonnes of wheat and other grain to start flowing from Ukraine's filled silos and ports. WATCH | Russia withdraws from Ukraine grain deal, can Zelensky bank on EU? × Since then, the deal's expiration date has been extended multiple times with Moscow waiting till the eleventh hour to grant an extension. However, it has done so reluctantly as the demands set by Russian President Vladimir Putin have not been met by the Western nations. Prior to calling off the deal on Monday, Moscow wanted its Russian Agricultural Bank (Rosselkhozbank) to be reconnected to the SWIFT international payments system after it was cut off due to sanctions by the European Union in June 2022. Meanwhile, the Western world has accused Moscow of using food commodities, after gas as a means to leverage its position in the ongoing conflict. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wheat prices rise exponentially after Russia pulls out of Black Sea grain deal

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidrLnTMwbK0IE1" /><meta charset="utf-8" />The Chinese consulate in the Ukrainian port city of Odesa has been damaged in the overnight strike by the Russian forces. Oleh Kiper, the regional governor confirmed the attack, saying Russia was 'deliberately' hitting the port infrastructure.</p>

<p>"As a result of the Russian night attack, the building of the consulate general of the People’s Republic of China in Odesa was damaged," Kiper said on Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The aggressor deliberately hits the port infrastructure. Administrative and residential buildings, as well as the consulate of the People’s Republic of China, were damaged. This suggests that the enemy does not pay attention to anything," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Chinese side is yet to comment on the issue. But a stern reaction is highly unlikely as ever since the war broke out, China has refused to publicly discourage Russia. Meanwhile, senior officials have often expressed direct support saying Beijing acknowledges “legitimate and reasonable security concerns”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Strikes in Mykolaiv and Odesa port cities</strong></h2>

<p>After the third consecutive day of strikes battered the port cities of Odesa and Mykolaiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky offered condolences to the victims. Reports stated that two people were killed while 27 were injured in the overnight attacks by Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Odesa. Mykolaiv. Russian terrorists continue their attempts to destroy the life of our country. But the evil state has no missiles that are more powerful than our will to save lives, support each other and win," said Zelensky.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Ukrainian president aide admits counteroffensive will take long</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-19="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-30="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukrainian-president-aide-admits-counteroffensive-will-take-long-617623/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-strike-on-ukraines-mykolaiv-injures-nine-including-children-617642#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<p>The Ukrainian air force said early Thursday that at least eight Russian Tu-22M3 aircraft were "flying in the direction of the Black Sea."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine, which reclaimed much of the territory last September, warned this week that Russia was again on the attack in the region, with "heavy fighting" taking place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ministry spokesperson Igor Konashenkov said that Russian forces also launched strikes on military-industrial sites, a fuel and ammunition store in Odesa, and a Ukrainian Air Force air base in the Kirovogradska region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-strike-on-ukraines-mykolaiv-injures-nine-including-children-617642" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Russian strike on Ukraine's port city of Mykolaiv injures nine, including children</strong></a></p>

<p>The strikes intensified after Moscow pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal on Monday, leading to an exponential rise in wheat prices globally. While the wheat remains stuck in Ukrainian ports, the Russian side has started "deliberately targeting the grain deal infrastructure", according to Zelensky.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts argue that the domino effect will be reflected in global inflation which had calmed down after a long time.&nbsp;</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>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The Chinese consulate in the Ukrainian port city of Odesa has been damaged in the overnight strike by the Russian forces. Oleh Kiper, the regional governor confirmed the attack, saying Russia was 'deliberately' hitting the port infrastructure.

The Chinese consulate in the Ukrainian port city of Odesa has been damaged in the overnight strike by the Russian forces. Oleh Kiper, the regional governor confirmed the attack, saying Russia was 'deliberately' hitting the port infrastructure. "As a result of the Russian night attack, the building of the consulate general of the People’s Republic of China in Odesa was damaged," Kiper said on Telegram. "The aggressor deliberately hits the port infrastructure. Administrative and residential buildings, as well as the consulate of the People’s Republic of China, were damaged. This suggests that the enemy does not pay attention to anything," he added. The Chinese side is yet to comment on the issue. But a stern reaction is highly unlikely as ever since the war broke out, China has refused to publicly discourage Russia. Meanwhile, senior officials have often expressed direct support saying Beijing acknowledges “legitimate and reasonable security concerns”. Strikes in Mykolaiv and Odesa port cities After the third consecutive day of strikes battered the port cities of Odesa and Mykolaiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky offered condolences to the victims. Reports stated that two people were killed while 27 were injured in the overnight attacks by Moscow. “Odesa. Mykolaiv. Russian terrorists continue their attempts to destroy the life of our country. But the evil state has no missiles that are more powerful than our will to save lives, support each other and win," said Zelensky. Watch: Ukrainian president aide admits counteroffensive will take long × The Ukrainian air force said early Thursday that at least eight Russian Tu-22M3 aircraft were "flying in the direction of the Black Sea." Ukraine, which reclaimed much of the territory last September, warned this week that Russia was again on the attack in the region, with "heavy fighting" taking place. Ministry spokesperson Igor Konashenkov said that Russian forces also launched strikes on military-industrial sites, a fuel and ammunition store in Odesa, and a Ukrainian Air Force air base in the Kirovogradska region. Also read | Russian strike on Ukraine's port city of Mykolaiv injures nine, including children The strikes intensified after Moscow pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal on Monday, leading to an exponential rise in wheat prices globally. While the wheat remains stuck in Ukrainian ports, the Russian side has started "deliberately targeting the grain deal infrastructure", according to Zelensky. Experts argue that the domino effect will be reflected in global inflation which had calmed down after a long time. 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:

Chinese consulate damaged by Russian strike in port city of Odesa: Reports

Russia launched an attack on the Odesa region for the third day in a row. On Monday, Moscow withdrew from a one-year-old grain arrangement that permitted the peaceful transit of Ukrainian grain over the Black Sea. The United Nations warned that the termination of the grain deal risked generating global hunger.

Russia attacks Odesa for the third day

<p>Court papers released on Tuesday (July 18) revealed South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's statement in an affidavit that arresting Russian President Vladimir Putin would amount to declaration of war. South Africa is currently wrangling with the issue of hosting Putin for upcoming BRICS Summit in Johannesburg. The issue has gained importance especially in the light of ongoing Ukraine war. Putin has an arrest wasn't against him issued by International Criminal Court.</p>

<p>Putin has been invited to the BRICS Summit taking place next month. Were he to attend the summit, South Africa would be expected to act on the warrant as the country is a member of the ICC.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Ukraine war exposes the weaknesses in UK military</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-war-exposes-the-weaknesses-in-uk-military-617070/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The diplomatic dilemma South Africa finds itself in is playing out in court. The leading opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), is trying to corner the government and force its hand to ensure that Putin is arrested and handed over to the ICC.</p>

<p>But in a responding affidavit, Ramaphosa described the DA's application as "irresponsible" and said national security was at stake.</p>

<p>"Russia has made it clear that arresting its sitting President would be a declaration of war," he said.</p>

<p>"It would be inconsistent with our Constitution to risk engaging in war with Russia," he said, adding that this would go against his duty to protect the country.</p>

<h2><strong>Seeking exemption</strong></h2>

<p>South Africa is currently seeking an exemption under ICC rules. It is saying that enacting on the arrest would threaten "security, peace and order of the state," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>South Africa is the current chair of the BRICS group, a gathering of heavyweights that also includes Brazil, Russia, India and China, which sees itself as a counter-balance to Western economic domination.</p>

<p>The arrest warrant against Putin has been issued over accusations that Russia deported Ukrainian children unlawfully.</p>

<p>Paul Mashatile, Deputy South African President has said in recent interviews with local media that the government has been trying to persuade Putin not to come. But these efforts have been unsuccessful so far.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-struck-ukrainian-ports-in-mass-revenge-strike-for-crimean-bridge-617118">Russia says air strikes on Ukrainian ports were retaliation for Crimean Bridge attack</a></strong></p>

<p>Signed in June and initially marked as "confidential", Ramaphosa's affidavit was published on Tuesday, after the court ruled related papers be made public.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin and Ramaphosa spoke to each other on phone on Saturday (July 15). During the call, Putin told Ramaphosa that main objective of the grain deal with Ukraine was not achieved.</p>

<p>The deal that eased fears of a global food crisis sparked by the offensive in Ukraine expired on Monday and Russia has announced that it was ceasing participation in the deal.</p>

<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>

<p><strong><em>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</em></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Court papers released on Tuesday (July 18) revealed South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's statement in an affidavit that arresting Russian President Vladimir Putin would amount to declaration of war.

Court papers released on Tuesday (July 18) revealed South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's statement in an affidavit that arresting Russian President Vladimir Putin would amount to declaration of war. South Africa is currently wrangling with the issue of hosting Putin for upcoming BRICS Summit in Johannesburg. The issue has gained importance especially in the light of ongoing Ukraine war. Putin has an arrest wasn't against him issued by International Criminal Court. Putin has been invited to the BRICS Summit taking place next month. Were he to attend the summit, South Africa would be expected to act on the warrant as the country is a member of the ICC. Watch | Ukraine war exposes the weaknesses in UK military × The diplomatic dilemma South Africa finds itself in is playing out in court. The leading opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), is trying to corner the government and force its hand to ensure that Putin is arrested and handed over to the ICC. But in a responding affidavit, Ramaphosa described the DA's application as "irresponsible" and said national security was at stake. "Russia has made it clear that arresting its sitting President would be a declaration of war," he said. "It would be inconsistent with our Constitution to risk engaging in war with Russia," he said, adding that this would go against his duty to protect the country. Seeking exemption South Africa is currently seeking an exemption under ICC rules. It is saying that enacting on the arrest would threaten "security, peace and order of the state," he said. South Africa is the current chair of the BRICS group, a gathering of heavyweights that also includes Brazil, Russia, India and China, which sees itself as a counter-balance to Western economic domination. The arrest warrant against Putin has been issued over accusations that Russia deported Ukrainian children unlawfully. Paul Mashatile, Deputy South African President has said in recent interviews with local media that the government has been trying to persuade Putin not to come. But these efforts have been unsuccessful so far. Also Read | Russia says air strikes on Ukrainian ports were retaliation for Crimean Bridge attack Signed in June and initially marked as "confidential", Ramaphosa's affidavit was published on Tuesday, after the court ruled related papers be made public. Putin and Ramaphosa spoke to each other on phone on Saturday (July 15). During the call, Putin told Ramaphosa that main objective of the grain deal with Ukraine was not achieved. The deal that eased fears of a global food crisis sparked by the offensive in Ukraine expired on Monday and Russia has announced that it was ceasing participation in the deal. (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 ×

Arresting Putin would be 'declaration of war', says South African President Ramaphosa

It's been over 500 Days since Russia began its military operation in Ukraine the crossfire continues but as Battle Cry cries echo it is the common man on both sides they are feeling the pain. The pain of war is felt by all not just the warring sides. Today we dive into the battlefield of Russia's Financial landscape where water on wallets points at a longing for stability. Will the Russian people dare to dream again or will they surrender? Take a look at this report.

News in numbers: Impact of Russia-Ukraine war

For the second time in less than a year, explosives have damaged the bridge that links Russia & Crimea. Moscow has blamed Ukraine for the incident, which left two people dead. Did Ukraine attack Crimea bridge to push the world into World War 3 before grain deal's expiration?

Did Ukraine attack Crimea bridge to push the world into World War 3 before grain deal's expiration?

So far, the Ukraine war has had only one face- Volodymyr Zelensky. But is he the hero of Ukraine? Gravitas brings you the story of Ukraine's real hero- a man who is on the frontline, risking his life for Ukraine. Priyanka Sharma brings you the details.

Gravitas: Ukraine's Real Hero: The General who masterminded the counter-offensive against Russia

An attack on the Kerch bridge, killing a couple and seriously injuring their daughter, left a span of the roadway hanging perilously. The damage initially appeared to be less severe than what was caused by an assault in October, but it highlighted the bridge’s vulnerability. A spokesperson for the Ukrainian security service did not directly acknowledge responsibility. However, the spokesperson said the security service would reveal details about organising the blast once Ukraine achieves victory in the war. Here's a look at why the Crimea Bridge is important.

Putin opened the Crimea Bridge in 2018, here's why the bridge matters

The UK is about to make plans to increase its military's combat readiness public. The European country plans to spend $3.3 billion to replace stocks and ammunition that have been reduced by the conflict in Ukraine. The battle has revealed flaws in the British military, such as diminishing munitions stocks and a lack of industrial capability required to quickly scale up production.

United Kingdom seeks to improve combat readiness of its military

Here, we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe.

UK's illegal migration bill set to become a law | Putin slams Crimea attack

With Russia refusing to extend the Black Sea grain deal Ukrainian president Zelensky has said that the Black Sea grain Corridor can continue to operate without Russia's participation. To understand this better watch this interview with the former Advisor to the defence minister of Ukraine, Lt. Colonel (R) Glen Grant.

Russia withdraws from Ukraine grain deal, can Zelensky bank on EU?

A critical deal that once allowed Ukraine’s grain to be safely exported via the black sea has come to an end as Russia unexpectedly withdrew its support. This move raises alarming concerns over the well-being of millions of people worldwide, as the united nations warn, it could strike a devastating blow to those in need.

Russia: Black Sea grain deal terms for extension not fulfilled

<p>US Treasury Secretary Janey Yellen on Sunday laid emphasis on India's significant role in boosting supply chain resilience through friendshoring.</p>

<p>During a press conference in Gandhinagar, she expressed gratitude to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and further discussed the agenda for global economic growth.</p>

<p>She appreciated India as an indispensable partner in the strategy of "friendshoring" to bolster supply chain resilience.</p>

<p>Friendshoring is a strategy where a country sources raw materials, components and even manufactured goods from countries that share its values.</p>

<p>“Friendshoring is an important foundation of our approach to increasing resilience of our supply chains, and we see India as an indispensable partner in that and I hope to use this trip to deepen what is already a significant relationship with respect to friendshoring that the US and India have," said Yellen.</p>

<p>Yellen highlighted the significance of deepening the already influential relationship between the United States and India in the context of friendshoring. She then acknowledged India's key role, further recognising the country as a valuable partner in achieving resilient and robust supply chains.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><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></p>

<h2><strong>India seen as 'excellent place' to be producing and exporting to US, says Yellen</strong></h2>

<p>The private sector is an essential point of friendshoring, and private firms have continued to make announcements of investing in India as they see India as "an excellent place to be producing and exporting to the US," she said.</p>

<p>The United States Secretary of the Treasury then underlined the top agendas of this week which included, debt distress in emerging markets and developing countries, multilateral development bank evolution, support for Ukraine, and a global tax deal.</p>

<p>Further elucidating on the agendas, she said that the debt vulnerabilities for many countries ascended as a result of the COVID pandemic and Russia's "illegal" war against Ukraine, with the share of countries in debt distress doubling compared to 2015, she said.</p>

<p>“Restoring debt sustainability can help unlock the massive economic potential of developing nations. It can help them regain lost growth and development and enable them to make investments to address challenges that we are trying to tackle together,” she said.</p>

<p>When these countries develop and contribute to the global economy, "all of us benefit," Yellen said.</p>

<p>She then said that the United States Treasury is ready to serve as a partner for the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust - the PRGT.</p>

<p>"I expect the IMF to develop a set of options to do so. My team at Treasury is ready to serve as a partner for the IMF as it considers the options at its disposal-&nbsp;like using the internally generated resources of the fund to support the PRGT subsidy account," she said.</p>

<p>"The United States will continue to build momentum for a collective initiative to evolve the multilateral development banks (MDBs)," Yellen said.</p>

<p>“Our reforms to the World Bank's balance sheet will responsibly unlock as much as USD 50 billion in additional lending capacity over the next decade. As part of our evolution agenda, we estimate that the MDBs as a system could unlock USD 200 billion over the next decade just from the measures already being implemented or under deliberation,” she said.</p>

<p>“This is USD 200 billion more in funding that we can use to advance key global priorities: spurring economic growth and reducing poverty, fighting climate change, and promoting human development,” she said.</p>

<p>“As we take these actions, we recognise that public financing alone cannot fully deliver on the massive challenges that face us. That's why it is essential that development banks ramp up their private capital mobilisation rates,” she added.</p>

<h2><strong>Redouble support for Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>She then said that her other priority this week would be to redouble support for Ukraine as it continues to defend itself against Russia's “illegal and unprovoked attack.”</p>

<p>“Let me be clear: our coalition's support for Ukraine is unequivocal. The United States will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes. And I know the allies and partners in our coalition will do so as well,” she said.</p>

<p>“We will also continue to cut off Russia's access to the military equipment and technologies that it needs to wage war against Ukraine. One of our core goals this year is to combat Russia's efforts to evade our sanctions. Our coalition is building on the actions we've taken in recent months to crack down on these efforts," she further added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


US Treasury Secretary Janey Yellen on Sunday laid emphasis on India's significant role in boosting supply chain resilience through friendshoring. During a press conference in Gandhinagar, she expressed gratitude to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and further discussed the agenda for global economic growth.

US Treasury Secretary Janey Yellen on Sunday laid emphasis on India's significant role in boosting supply chain resilience through friendshoring. During a press conference in Gandhinagar, she expressed gratitude to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and further discussed the agenda for global economic growth. She appreciated India as an indispensable partner in the strategy of "friendshoring" to bolster supply chain resilience. Friendshoring is a strategy where a country sources raw materials, components and even manufactured goods from countries that share its values. “Friendshoring is an important foundation of our approach to increasing resilience of our supply chains, and we see India as an indispensable partner in that and I hope to use this trip to deepen what is already a significant relationship with respect to friendshoring that the US and India have," said Yellen. Yellen highlighted the significance of deepening the already influential relationship between the United States and India in the context of friendshoring. She then acknowledged India's key role, further recognising the country as a valuable partner in achieving resilient and robust supply chains. Also read: Putin threatens 'tit-for-tat' use of cluster munitions against Ukraine India seen as 'excellent place' to be producing and exporting to US, says Yellen The private sector is an essential point of friendshoring, and private firms have continued to make announcements of investing in India as they see India as "an excellent place to be producing and exporting to the US," she said. The United States Secretary of the Treasury then underlined the top agendas of this week which included, debt distress in emerging markets and developing countries, multilateral development bank evolution, support for Ukraine, and a global tax deal. Further elucidating on the agendas, she said that the debt vulnerabilities for many countries ascended as a result of the COVID pandemic and Russia's "illegal" war against Ukraine, with the share of countries in debt distress doubling compared to 2015, she said. “Restoring debt sustainability can help unlock the massive economic potential of developing nations. It can help them regain lost growth and development and enable them to make investments to address challenges that we are trying to tackle together,” she said. When these countries develop and contribute to the global economy, "all of us benefit," Yellen said. She then said that the United States Treasury is ready to serve as a partner for the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust - the PRGT. "I expect the IMF to develop a set of options to do so. My team at Treasury is ready to serve as a partner for the IMF as it considers the options at its disposal- like using the internally generated resources of the fund to support the PRGT subsidy account," she said. "The United States will continue to build momentum for a collective initiative to evolve the multilateral development banks (MDBs)," Yellen said. “Our reforms to the World Bank's balance sheet will responsibly unlock as much as USD 50 billion in additional lending capacity over the next decade. As part of our evolution agenda, we estimate that the MDBs as a system could unlock USD 200 billion over the next decade just from the measures already being implemented or under deliberation,” she said. “This is USD 200 billion more in funding that we can use to advance key global priorities: spurring economic growth and reducing poverty, fighting climate change, and promoting human development,” she said. “As we take these actions, we recognise that public financing alone cannot fully deliver on the massive challenges that face us. That's why it is essential that development banks ramp up their private capital mobilisation rates,” she added. Redouble support for Ukraine She then said that her other priority this week would be to redouble support for Ukraine as it continues to defend itself against Russia's “illegal and unprovoked attack.” “Let me be clear: our coalition's support for Ukraine is unequivocal. The United States will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes. And I know the allies and partners in our coalition will do so as well,” she said. “We will also continue to cut off Russia's access to the military equipment and technologies that it needs to wage war against Ukraine. One of our core goals this year is to combat Russia's efforts to evade our sanctions. Our coalition is building on the actions we've taken in recent months to crack down on these efforts," she further added. (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.

Yellen dubs India 'indispensable partner' for friendshoring, calls for redoubling support to Ukraine

ukraine

Ukraine, News on Ukraine, stories on Ukraine, articles on Ukraine, Ukraine stories at Wion, Ukraine news, Ukraine latest news