Italians are boiling over with frustration as the price of their beloved pasta has soared to unprecedented heights. Grocery prices across Europe have been climbing due to higher energy and labor costs, as well as the ripple effects of the war in Ukraine. Despite a decline in food commodity costs, the price of pasta remains disproportionately high. A consumer advocacy group called Assoutenti has called for a weeklong national pasta strike, set to begin on June 22nd.

Italians protest soaring Pasta prices with national strike

There is a lot going on in Ukraine, but we don't know enough about it. The counteroffensive is believed to be in progress, but Russia dismissed it before it ever got off the ground, and fighting has undoubtedly become worse across Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine War: Kyiv claims to retaken ground from Russian forces

North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Monday (June 12) kicked-off its largest air force deployment exercise in Europe in the alliance's history. It is to be a display of unity towards partners and potential threats like Russia.

The "Air Defender 23" exercise led by Germany will run till June 23. It will involve 250 military aircraft from 25 NATO and partner countries including Japan and Sweden. The latter is joining the alliance after years of maintaining neutrality.

The drills are aimed at boosting interoperability and preparedness to defend against drones and cruise missiles in case of an attack on cities, airports or sea ports. Up to 10,000 people will take part in the exercise.

Watch | Russia Ukraine War: Ukraine claims Russia blew up another dam

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Last week, Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz of the German Luftwaffe presented the plan. He said that "Air Defender" was conceived in 2018 in response to Russia's annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. Gerhartz maintained that the exercise was "not targeted at anyone".

He said that while NATO would defend "every centimetre" of its territory, the exercise would not "send any flights, for example, in the direction of Kaliningrad," the Russian enclave bordering alliance member states Poland and Lithuania. &nbsp;

"We are a defensive alliance and that is how this exercise is planned," he said.&nbsp;

<h2>US wants 'Mr Putin' to take note</h2>

The drills would show "beyond a shadow of a doubt the agility and the swiftness of our allied force," said Amy Gutmann, US ambassador to Germany. &nbsp;Gutmann said that "Air Defender 23" was intended to send a message to countries including Russia.&nbsp;

"I would be pretty surprised if any world leader was not taking note of what this shows in terms of the spirit of this alliance, which means the strength of this alliance, and that includes Mr Putin," she told reporters, referring to the Russian president.&nbsp;

"By synchronising together, we multiply our force."&nbsp;

NATO, a predominantly Western military alliance, was set up 75 years ago to check the influence of the Soviet Union.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-repel-attack-by-ukraine-on-black-sea-warship-603188">Russia claims it repelled attack by Ukraine on Black Sea warship</a>

After Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Finland and Sweden sought NATO membership. Both countries for years, had maintained the stance of neutrality to avoid conflict with Moscow.

An attack on any member country of NATO is considered an attack on all countries of the alliance.

The exercise will include operational and tactical-level training, primarily in Germany, but also in the Czech Republic, Estonia and Latvia. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz will visit pilots based at the Schleswig-Jagel airfield in northern Germany on Friday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Monday (June 12) kicked-off its largest air force deployment exercise in Europe in the alliance's history. It is to be a display of unity towards partners and potential threats like Russia.

North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Monday (June 12) kicked-off its largest air force deployment exercise in Europe in the alliance's history. It is to be a display of unity towards partners and potential threats like Russia. The "Air Defender 23" exercise led by Germany will run till June 23. It will involve 250 military aircraft from 25 NATO and partner countries including Japan and Sweden. The latter is joining the alliance after years of maintaining neutrality. The drills are aimed at boosting interoperability and preparedness to defend against drones and cruise missiles in case of an attack on cities, airports or sea ports. Up to 10,000 people will take part in the exercise. Watch | Russia Ukraine War: Ukraine claims Russia blew up another dam × Last week, Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz of the German Luftwaffe presented the plan. He said that "Air Defender" was conceived in 2018 in response to Russia's annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. Gerhartz maintained that the exercise was "not targeted at anyone". He said that while NATO would defend "every centimetre" of its territory, the exercise would not "send any flights, for example, in the direction of Kaliningrad," the Russian enclave bordering alliance member states Poland and Lithuania.  "We are a defensive alliance and that is how this exercise is planned," he said. US wants 'Mr Putin' to take note The drills would show "beyond a shadow of a doubt the agility and the swiftness of our allied force," said Amy Gutmann, US ambassador to Germany. Gutmann said that "Air Defender 23" was intended to send a message to countries including Russia. "I would be pretty surprised if any world leader was not taking note of what this shows in terms of the spirit of this alliance, which means the strength of this alliance, and that includes Mr Putin," she told reporters, referring to the Russian president. "By synchronising together, we multiply our force." NATO, a predominantly Western military alliance, was set up 75 years ago to check the influence of the Soviet Union. Also Read | Russia claims it repelled attack by Ukraine on Black Sea warship After Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Finland and Sweden sought NATO membership. Both countries for years, had maintained the stance of neutrality to avoid conflict with Moscow. An attack on any member country of NATO is considered an attack on all countries of the alliance. The exercise will include operational and tactical-level training, primarily in Germany, but also in the Czech Republic, Estonia and Latvia. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz will visit pilots based at the Schleswig-Jagel airfield in northern Germany on Friday. (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 ×

With eyes on Russia, NATO kicks off biggest-ever air drill in its history

The Russia Ukraine War has been escalating with no end in sight after Ukraine launched the long-awaited counter-offensive on Russia last week. The conditions have bee difficult for both the sides. In a new statement, Ukraine's President Zelensky said that fighting with the Russian forces was tough for Ukraine but his forces are making progress on the battlefield.

Ukraine takes 90 sq km of area from Russia, seven settlements taken over in last week | WION

Russia's FSB security service, on Tuesday, released a statement saying that it had arrested a group of ex-defence industry workers allegedly suspected of supplying sensitive military information to Ukraine. The security service added that it also suspects the captured former workers of planning sabotage attacks.

The FSB further accused the anonymous former workers of acting as spies for Ukrainian military intelligence and of also sharing information, crucial technical documents and models used in&nbsp;the manufacture of weapons systems and equipment for Russia's Air Force.

In a statement, the security service agency said that the same group was also planning strategies to detonate the railway lines in Kursk and Belgorod regions. These railway lines are used to supply equipment to the Russian forces fighting in Ukraine.&nbsp;

The FSB said it had opened criminal cases into the ex-workers on charges of committing state treason and preparing acts of sabotage.

"The suspects have been detained and are making confessions," Reuters quoted the FSB as saying.

"Plastic explosives with a total mass of more than four&nbsp;kg, four detonators, military design documentation and goods used for military purposes, as well as $150,000, have been seized," it said.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia's missile attack on Ukrainian city kills 10</h2>

Russia's 'massive' missile attack overnight on the central Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih claimed the lives of at least 10 and wounded 28 others.

"Ten people have died, one is under the rubble, 28 are injured," Oleksandr Vilkul, the head of the city's military administration, said in a statement on social media.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-belgorod-raid-which-fighters-from-ukraine-infiltrated-russia-and-infuriated-putin-596008">Explained | Belgorod raid: The combatants who infiltrated Russia and infuriated Putin</a>

Several civilian buildings were hit by the missiles, including a five-storey building, the mayor of Kryvyi Rih, Oleksandr Vilkul, said earlier.

"Likely, there are people under the rubble," Vilkul said on Telegram.

While it was difficult to ascertain whether the attack had taken place since there was no immediate comment from Russia, Lisak shared a picture of a five-storey apartment building with all windows blown out and smoke coming out of some.

The attack comes a day after Ukraine said that it had started its much-awaited counter-offensive against the Russian forces and claimed to have achieved success.

<h2>Ukraine’s counter-offensive</h2>

On Monday, Kyiv claimed that it had taken control of seven villages in eastern and southern Ukraine that were initially occupied by the Russian forces over the last week.

Ukraine further said that it made small gains near the eastern city of Bakhmut after launching a long-awaited counteroffensive with Western weapons to claw back territory.

"Seven settlements were liberated," Deputy Defence Minister Ganna Malyar said on Telegram.

These are Lobkovo, Levadne and Novodarivka in the southern Zaporizhzhia region, she said.

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)

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Russia's FSB security service, on Tuesday, released a statement saying that it had arrested a group of ex-defence industry workers allegedly suspected of supplying sensitive military information to Ukraine.

Russia's FSB security service, on Tuesday, released a statement saying that it had arrested a group of ex-defence industry workers allegedly suspected of supplying sensitive military information to Ukraine. The security service added that it also suspects the captured former workers of planning sabotage attacks. The FSB further accused the anonymous former workers of acting as spies for Ukrainian military intelligence and of also sharing information, crucial technical documents and models used in the manufacture of weapons systems and equipment for Russia's Air Force. In a statement, the security service agency said that the same group was also planning strategies to detonate the railway lines in Kursk and Belgorod regions. These railway lines are used to supply equipment to the Russian forces fighting in Ukraine. The FSB said it had opened criminal cases into the ex-workers on charges of committing state treason and preparing acts of sabotage. "The suspects have been detained and are making confessions," Reuters quoted the FSB as saying. "Plastic explosives with a total mass of more than four kg, four detonators, military design documentation and goods used for military purposes, as well as $150,000, have been seized," it said. Russia's missile attack on Ukrainian city kills 10 Russia's 'massive' missile attack overnight on the central Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih claimed the lives of at least 10 and wounded 28 others. "Ten people have died, one is under the rubble, 28 are injured," Oleksandr Vilkul, the head of the city's military administration, said in a statement on social media. Also read: Explained | Belgorod raid: The combatants who infiltrated Russia and infuriated Putin Several civilian buildings were hit by the missiles, including a five-storey building, the mayor of Kryvyi Rih, Oleksandr Vilkul, said earlier. "Likely, there are people under the rubble," Vilkul said on Telegram. While it was difficult to ascertain whether the attack had taken place since there was no immediate comment from Russia, Lisak shared a picture of a five-storey apartment building with all windows blown out and smoke coming out of some. The attack comes a day after Ukraine said that it had started its much-awaited counter-offensive against the Russian forces and claimed to have achieved success. Ukraine’s counter-offensive On Monday, Kyiv claimed that it had taken control of seven villages in eastern and southern Ukraine that were initially occupied by the Russian forces over the last week. Ukraine further said that it made small gains near the eastern city of Bakhmut after launching a long-awaited counteroffensive with Western weapons to claw back territory. "Seven settlements were liberated," Deputy Defence Minister Ganna Malyar said on Telegram. These are Lobkovo, Levadne and Novodarivka in the southern Zaporizhzhia region, she said. 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

Russia's FSB arrests former defence industry workers suspected of spying for Ukraine's military intelligence

Ukraine has launched its much-anticipated counteroffensive, Kyiv claims that it has recaptured 7 villages in the Donestk and Zaporizhzhia regions meanwhile French president Emmanuel Macron has said that Ukraine's operations will go on for weeks or months vowing to continue to supply weapons to Ukraine.

Macron re-affirms support to Ukraine

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - Ukraine claims to have retaken three villages in Donetsk, Russia claims to repel Ukrainian attack on Black Sea warship, Russia-Ukraine prisoner swap, Russia arrests US citizens on drug dealing charges.

Russia arrests US citizen on drug charges | Pro-Trump supporters rally in Florida

Russia on Sunday claimed that its force repelled an attack by the Ukrainian army on a Russian warship which was guarding gas pipelines in the Black Sea. 
 
"Ukraine's armed forces made an unsuccessful attempt to attack the Black Sea Fleet's Priazovye ship," stated the Russian defence ministry, adding that the forces of Kyiv used six unmanned boats. 
 
"All the boats have been destroyed. There are no casualties,” the ministry said in a statement. 
 
The Priazovye battleship, which has been guarding the Blue Stream and the TurkStream gas pipelines, has been performing its tasks without much hindrance, said the defence ministry.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="Russian opposition failing to unite against Putin. Here's why">Russian opposition failing to unite against Putin. Here's why</a>

At the time of the attack, reconnaissance was being conducted by a remotely piloted US military aircraft called the RQ-4 Global Hawk in the Black Sea, Moscow stated.

<h2>35 people missing in Ukraine's devastating flood: Minister</h2>

Thirty-five people, which included seven children, went missing in southern Ukraine on Sunday in the devastating flood which prosecutors called the "worst environmental catastrophe since Chernobyl". 
 
On June 6, the Russian-controlled Kakhovka dam located along the front line in the Kherson region blew up and forced thousands of people to flee, sparking fears of environmental and humanitarian disasters. 
 
Russia has been accused by Ukraine of blowing up the dam on the Dnipro River, while Moscow stated that Kyiv fired upon the structure. 
 
Ukrainian Interior Minister Igor Klymenko stated that 77 towns and villages were flooded in the southern regions of Mykolaiv and Kherson. Klymenko stated that 35 people went missing in the Kherson region, which included seven children. 
 
Because of the flood, five people lost their lives in Kherson and one person was killed in the region of Mykolaiv.

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia under way

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Around 3,700 people were evacuated from their homes in both regions, said the minister in a statement. “Separately, Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin and representatives of the International Criminal Court visited the flooded territory,” stated his office. 
 
"This is the worst environmental catastrophe since Chernobyl so we are investigating not only a war crime but also an ecocide," said Kostin in a statement. "The situation is very complicated," he added.

<h2>Ukraine announces first gain of offensive, says retook village in southeast</h2>

On Sunday,&nbsp;Kyiv stated that Ukrainian forces have retaken a village in the&nbsp;south of the country which marked&nbsp;the first reported gain of the offensive. In a statement, Ukraine's ground forces stated that&nbsp;soldiers of the 68th separate ranger brigade had "liberated the settlement of Blagodatne" in the region of Donetsk. 
 
Earlier in the day, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia has started. "Counter-offensive and defensive actions are taking place," he stated. 
 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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Russia on Sunday claimed that its force repelled an attack by the Ukrainian army on a Russian warship which was guarding gas pipelines in the Black Sea. "Ukraine's armed forces made an unsuccessful attempt to attack the Black Sea Fleet's Priazovye ship," stated the Russian defence ministry, adding that the forces of Kyiv used six unmanned boats.

Russia on Sunday claimed that its force repelled an attack by the Ukrainian army on a Russian warship which was guarding gas pipelines in the Black Sea. "Ukraine's armed forces made an unsuccessful attempt to attack the Black Sea Fleet's Priazovye ship," stated the Russian defence ministry, adding that the forces of Kyiv used six unmanned boats. "All the boats have been destroyed. There are no casualties,” the ministry said in a statement. The Priazovye battleship, which has been guarding the Blue Stream and the TurkStream gas pipelines, has been performing its tasks without much hindrance, said the defence ministry. ALSO READ | Russian opposition failing to unite against Putin. Here's why At the time of the attack, reconnaissance was being conducted by a remotely piloted US military aircraft called the RQ-4 Global Hawk in the Black Sea, Moscow stated. 35 people missing in Ukraine's devastating flood: Minister Thirty-five people, which included seven children, went missing in southern Ukraine on Sunday in the devastating flood which prosecutors called the "worst environmental catastrophe since Chernobyl". On June 6, the Russian-controlled Kakhovka dam located along the front line in the Kherson region blew up and forced thousands of people to flee, sparking fears of environmental and humanitarian disasters. Russia has been accused by Ukraine of blowing up the dam on the Dnipro River, while Moscow stated that Kyiv fired upon the structure. Ukrainian Interior Minister Igor Klymenko stated that 77 towns and villages were flooded in the southern regions of Mykolaiv and Kherson. Klymenko stated that 35 people went missing in the Kherson region, which included seven children. Because of the flood, five people lost their lives in Kherson and one person was killed in the region of Mykolaiv. WATCH | Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia under way Around 3,700 people were evacuated from their homes in both regions, said the minister in a statement. “Separately, Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin and representatives of the International Criminal Court visited the flooded territory,” stated his office. "This is the worst environmental catastrophe since Chernobyl so we are investigating not only a war crime but also an ecocide," said Kostin in a statement. "The situation is very complicated," he added. Ukraine announces first gain of offensive, says retook village in southeast On Sunday, Kyiv stated that Ukrainian forces have retaken a village in the south of the country which marked the first reported gain of the offensive. In a statement, Ukraine's ground forces stated that soldiers of the 68th separate ranger brigade had "liberated the settlement of Blagodatne" in the region of Donetsk. Earlier in the day, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia has started. "Counter-offensive and defensive actions are taking place," he stated. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia claims it repelled attack by Ukraine on Black Sea warship

Ukraine claims to have retaken 3 villages in Donetsk | Russia-Ukraine's prisoner swap

New Zealand's national radio broadcaster has launched an investigation and put a staff member on leave after it said a series of news stories on its website about Russia's invasion of Ukraine had been edited to present "a false account of events".

New Zealand's national broadcaster probes 'inappropriate' editing of Ukraine war stories

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Monday (June 12) that he had concerns that Russia will quit the Black Sea grain deal on July 17. The deal allows the safe wartime export of Ukrainian grain and fertilisers from three Ukrainian Black Sea ports.

The deal, called Black Sea Grain Initiative, was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in July last year. Russia has been threatening to walk away from the deal if obstacles to its own grain and fertiliser shipments are not removed.

"I am concerned and we are working hard in order to make sure that it will be possible to maintain the Black Sea initiative and at the same time that we are able to go on in our work to facilitate Russian exports," Guterres told reporters.

Gravitas: Ukraine secures first victory in counter-offensive

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To convince Russia to agree to the Black Sea grain deal, a three-year memorandum of understanding was struck at the same time under which UN&nbsp;officials agreed to help Russia with its own food and fertiliser exports.

Russian food and fertiliser exports are not subject to Western sanctions which were imposed after Russia invaded Ukraine last year. However, Moscow says payment restrictions, logistics and insurance have created obstacles.

On Saturday, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Vershinin said that Russia "cannot be satisfied with how this memorandum is being implemented," TASS news agency reported. Vershinin was speaking after his meeting with Rebeca Grynspan, the top UN trade official. The meeting took place in Geneva on Friday.&nbsp;

Among the demands made by Russia are the resumption of its ammonia exports via a pipeline to Ukraine's port of Pivdennyi and the reconnection of the Russian Agricultural Bank (Rosselkhozbank) to the SWIFT international payment system.

Also Read &nbsp;| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-and-ukraine-swap-nearly-200-prisoners-kyiv-says-it-recaptured-two-villages-in-offensive-603241">Kyiv recaptures four villages in Donetsk as Ukraine's counter-offensive begins</a>

The United Nations has helped boost Russian exports of food and fertilisers, facilitating a steady flow of ships to its ports and lower freight and insurance rates, a UN&nbsp;spokesman said on Friday.

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 last year. Due to its grain exports, Ukraine is often regarded as the "breadbasket of the world". Russian invasion made it difficult for grain export to continue and this raised the spectre of a global food crisis. The existence of a safe passage for grain shipments was thus deemed important. The United Nations and Turkey brokered the grain deal between Russia and Ukraine. The deal, even after being struck, has almost always faced uncertainty.

(With inputs from agencies)

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United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Monday (June 12) that he had concerns that Russia will quit the Black Sea grain deal on July 17. The deal allows the safe wartime export of Ukrainian grain and fertilisers from three Ukrainian Black Sea ports.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Monday (June 12) that he had concerns that Russia will quit the Black Sea grain deal on July 17. The deal allows the safe wartime export of Ukrainian grain and fertilisers from three Ukrainian Black Sea ports. The deal, called Black Sea Grain Initiative, was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in July last year. Russia has been threatening to walk away from the deal if obstacles to its own grain and fertiliser shipments are not removed. "I am concerned and we are working hard in order to make sure that it will be possible to maintain the Black Sea initiative and at the same time that we are able to go on in our work to facilitate Russian exports," Guterres told reporters. Gravitas: Ukraine secures first victory in counter-offensive × To convince Russia to agree to the Black Sea grain deal, a three-year memorandum of understanding was struck at the same time under which UN officials agreed to help Russia with its own food and fertiliser exports. Russian food and fertiliser exports are not subject to Western sanctions which were imposed after Russia invaded Ukraine last year. However, Moscow says payment restrictions, logistics and insurance have created obstacles. On Saturday, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Vershinin said that Russia "cannot be satisfied with how this memorandum is being implemented," TASS news agency reported. Vershinin was speaking after his meeting with Rebeca Grynspan, the top UN trade official. The meeting took place in Geneva on Friday. Among the demands made by Russia are the resumption of its ammonia exports via a pipeline to Ukraine's port of Pivdennyi and the reconnection of the Russian Agricultural Bank (Rosselkhozbank) to the SWIFT international payment system. Also Read | Kyiv recaptures four villages in Donetsk as Ukraine's counter-offensive begins The United Nations has helped boost Russian exports of food and fertilisers, facilitating a steady flow of ships to its ports and lower freight and insurance rates, a UN spokesman said on Friday. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 last year. Due to its grain exports, Ukraine is often regarded as the "breadbasket of the world". Russian invasion made it difficult for grain export to continue and this raised the spectre of a global food crisis. The existence of a safe passage for grain shipments was thus deemed important. The United Nations and Turkey brokered the grain deal between Russia and Ukraine. The deal, even after being struck, has almost always faced uncertainty. (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 ×

UN chief worried over Russia possibly quitting grain deal in July

Ukraine has secured its first modest victory in its counter-offensive. It has managed to 'liberate' 4 villages in the Donetsk region. Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Ukraine secures first victory in counter-offensive

The war between Russia & Ukraine has been focused on three regions over the weekend. We are focusing on three specific regions in Ukraine. These have been at the centre of attention in the last three days, following the explosion which dismantled the Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro river last week.

Ukrainian counteroffensive claims victories in Donetsk, Russian shelling kills 3 in Kherson | WION

Russia's ongoing battle with Ukraine has entered its 16th month but of late in the backdrop of Kyiv's counter-offensive. The Russian army is fighting another battle of its own one amongst its subsidiary military factions it remains no secret that Moscow's Armed Forces stand at the cusp of a divided leadership. At the moment, the wedge between Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and Defense Minister of Russia Sergei Shoigu has deepened in the last 48 hours.

Army within the Army: Tensions rise between Russian Military factions

Ukraine has announced that its forces have retaken three villages in the Eastern region of Donetsk. This is the first reported gains of Ukraine's much anticipated counter-offensive which President Zelensky confirmed is now underway.

Russia Ukraine War: Kyiv claims 3 villages taken in Donetsk, Moscow yet to confirm the fall

For Kherson resident Iryna Radetska, the catastrophic flooding of her city after the giant Kakhovka dam was destroyed is the latest chapter in more than a year of wartime suffering.

Kherson's unending nightmare: Occupation, shelling and floods

In Pics | Ukrainians flee flooding after Kakhovka dam breach

In what might be the first gains since Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gave the strongest indication yet that Kyiv’s long-awaited pushback of Russian troops has begun,&nbsp;Kyiv announced on Sunday that Ukrainian forces had retaken three villages in the eastern region of Donetsk. Ukraine, on Monday (June 12) also claimed that it&nbsp;recaptured a fourth village in a cluster of settlements in the country's&nbsp;southeast region.&nbsp;

“The settlements of Blahodatne and Makarivka were liberated,” Ukraine's deputy defence minister Hanna&nbsp;Maliar&nbsp;said in an&nbsp;update on Telegram.

A third village,&nbsp;Neskuchne, was also claimed by a Ukrainian army brigade on Sunday, though Kyiv defence leaders are yet to comment on the development. Russian military bloggers have&nbsp;made unofficial reports&nbsp;that Neskuchne has been recaptured by Ukraine's troops, reports CNN. 
 
Video footage posted online&nbsp;showed soldiers holding up the Ukrainian flag in&nbsp;Donetsk region's Storozheve with the defence minister thanking&nbsp;the 35th Separate Brigade of Marines for regaining control of the village.

This comes after Zelensky said that the “relevant counter-offensive defensive actions are taking place in Ukraine,” on Saturday. “Neskuchne of the Donetsk region is under the Ukrainian flag again,” said the state border guard, along with a video of Ukrainian troops announcing the takeover.&nbsp;

Ukrainian soldiers were also seen shouting Kyiv’s traditional battle cries such as “Glory to Ukraine!” and reportedly derided Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-repel-attack-by-ukraine-on-black-sea-warship-603188">Russia claims to repel attack by Ukraine on Black Sea warship</a>

This was hours after Ukrainian Land Forces announced that soldiers of the 68th Separate Hunting Brigade had retaken the village of Blahodatne in the Donetsk region.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-citizen-arrested-in-russia-over-drug-dealing-charges-603227">US citizen arrested in Russia over drug dealing charges</a>

The video showed soldiers hoisting a Ukrainian flag over a destroyed building. The Ukrainian government also has released a video for the third consecutive weekend that subtly acknowledges, without directly mentioning, the summer counteroffensive against Russia. &nbsp; 
 
The most recent video features Kyrylo Budanov, the head of military intelligence, sitting silently at his desk, gazing into the camera and after 20 seconds or so the words “More to Come” appear, which is followed by the slogan, “Plans Love Silence.” The recurring theme seems to point to the Kyiv government’s efforts symbolising the importance of maintaining silence.

<h2>Russia blows up another dam</h2>

Ukraine has accused Russia of blowing&nbsp;up another dam in the Zaporizhzhia region, following the destruction of the major Nova Kakhovka on Monday, which caused widespread flooding.

Ukraine says the dam was blown up by Russian forces, who have controlled it since February 2022.

Valeriy Shershen, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian military, said Moscow's forces had chosen to blow up a second dam near the village of Novodarivka, which "led to the flooding on both banks of the Mokri Yaly river", Kyiv Independent reported.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia, Ukraine prisoner&nbsp;swap</h2>

The Russian defence ministry, on Telegram, announced 94 Russian servicemen “who were in mortal danger” are being released after negotiations and will be taken to medical institutes for examination.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraines-counter-offensive-against-russia-under-way-603074">Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia under way</a>

Head of Ukraine’s presidential administration, Andriy Yermak, said 95 Ukrainian troops had been returned by the Russians. The Ukrainian official also said that some of them were injured and among those who returned were also members of the national guard and border guards.&nbsp;

<h2>Is Russia taking control of Wagner?</h2>

Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of Russia's Wagner mercenary, on Sunday, said his fighters would not sign any contract with the country’s Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-says-it-repels-many-attacks-by-ukraine-ukraine-claims-gains-in-bakhmut-603084">Russia says it repels many attacks by Ukraine; Ukraine claims gains in Bakhmut</a>

This comes after the Russian defence ministry on Saturday said Shoigu had ordered all “volunteer detachments” to sign contracts with his ministry by the end of the month. According to the defence ministry, it is in a bid to increase the effectiveness of the Russian army.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia underway</h2>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraines-counter-offensive-against-russia-under-way-603074/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

While no particular group or forces were mentioned by the ministry, the move is being seen as an attempt to take direct control of Wagner. However, Prigozhin, in response to a request for comment on the matter said, “Wagner will not sign any contracts with Shoigu,” adding that the order did not apply to Wagner.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-dam-collapse-zelensky-says-world-shamefully-indifferent-to-disaster-603032">Ukraine dam collapse: Zelensky says world ‘shamefully indifferent’ to disaster</a>

This comes as the Wagner chief has repeatedly criticised the Russian military brass for incompetence and deliberately undersupplying Wagner fighters in Ukraine. “Shoigu cannot properly manage military formation,” said Wagner chief.&nbsp;

He also went on to say that his group is well integrated with the Russian military and its effectiveness would be affected if they are required to report to the defence minister.

<h2>Russia said it hit Leopard tanks, Bradley vehicles and Ukrainian fighter jet</h2>

Earlier, on Sunday, Russia claimed that it destroyed at least seven German-made Leopard tanks and five United States-made Bradley vehicles in the past 48 hours while repelling Ukrainian attacks.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-opposition-failing-to-unite-against-putin-heres-why-603145">Russian opposition leaders meet in Brussels, fail to unite against Putin. Here's why</a>

It also later claimed that it had successfully taken down a Ukrainian Su-25 fighter jet in the Kherson region. Russian forces have also repelled three Ukrainian attacks in the Zaporizhzhia region, the ministry said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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In what might be the first gains since Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gave the strongest indication yet that Kyiv’s long-awaited pushback of Russian troops has begun, Kyiv announced on Sunday that Ukrainian forces had retaken three villages in the eastern region of Donetsk.

In what might be the first gains since Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gave the strongest indication yet that Kyiv’s long-awaited pushback of Russian troops has begun, Kyiv announced on Sunday that Ukrainian forces had retaken three villages in the eastern region of Donetsk. Ukraine, on Monday (June 12) also claimed that it recaptured a fourth village in a cluster of settlements in the country's southeast region. “The settlements of Blahodatne and Makarivka were liberated,” Ukraine's deputy defence minister Hanna Maliar said in an update on Telegram. A third village, Neskuchne, was also claimed by a Ukrainian army brigade on Sunday, though Kyiv defence leaders are yet to comment on the development. Russian military bloggers have made unofficial reports that Neskuchne has been recaptured by Ukraine's troops, reports CNN. Video footage posted online showed soldiers holding up the Ukrainian flag in Donetsk region's Storozheve with the defence minister thanking the 35th Separate Brigade of Marines for regaining control of the village. This comes after Zelensky said that the “relevant counter-offensive defensive actions are taking place in Ukraine,” on Saturday. “Neskuchne of the Donetsk region is under the Ukrainian flag again,” said the state border guard, along with a video of Ukrainian troops announcing the takeover. Ukrainian soldiers were also seen shouting Kyiv’s traditional battle cries such as “Glory to Ukraine!” and reportedly derided Russian President Vladimir Putin. ALSO READ | Russia claims to repel attack by Ukraine on Black Sea warship This was hours after Ukrainian Land Forces announced that soldiers of the 68th Separate Hunting Brigade had retaken the village of Blahodatne in the Donetsk region. ALSO READ | US citizen arrested in Russia over drug dealing charges The video showed soldiers hoisting a Ukrainian flag over a destroyed building. The Ukrainian government also has released a video for the third consecutive weekend that subtly acknowledges, without directly mentioning, the summer counteroffensive against Russia. The most recent video features Kyrylo Budanov, the head of military intelligence, sitting silently at his desk, gazing into the camera and after 20 seconds or so the words “More to Come” appear, which is followed by the slogan, “Plans Love Silence.” The recurring theme seems to point to the Kyiv government’s efforts symbolising the importance of maintaining silence. Russia blows up another dam Ukraine has accused Russia of blowing up another dam in the Zaporizhzhia region, following the destruction of the major Nova Kakhovka on Monday, which caused widespread flooding. Ukraine says the dam was blown up by Russian forces, who have controlled it since February 2022. Valeriy Shershen, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian military, said Moscow's forces had chosen to blow up a second dam near the village of Novodarivka, which "led to the flooding on both banks of the Mokri Yaly river", Kyiv Independent reported. Russia, Ukraine prisoner swap The Russian defence ministry, on Telegram, announced 94 Russian servicemen “who were in mortal danger” are being released after negotiations and will be taken to medical institutes for examination. ALSO WATCH | Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia under way Head of Ukraine’s presidential administration, Andriy Yermak, said 95 Ukrainian troops had been returned by the Russians. The Ukrainian official also said that some of them were injured and among those who returned were also members of the national guard and border guards. Is Russia taking control of Wagner? Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of Russia's Wagner mercenary, on Sunday, said his fighters would not sign any contract with the country’s Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. ALSO WATCH | Russia says it repels many attacks by Ukraine; Ukraine claims gains in Bakhmut This comes after the Russian defence ministry on Saturday said Shoigu had ordered all “volunteer detachments” to sign contracts with his ministry by the end of the month. According to the defence ministry, it is in a bid to increase the effectiveness of the Russian army. Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia underway While no particular group or forces were mentioned by the ministry, the move is being seen as an attempt to take direct control of Wagner. However, Prigozhin, in response to a request for comment on the matter said, “Wagner will not sign any contracts with Shoigu,” adding that the order did not apply to Wagner. ALSO READ | Ukraine dam collapse: Zelensky says world ‘shamefully indifferent’ to disaster This comes as the Wagner chief has repeatedly criticised the Russian military brass for incompetence and deliberately undersupplying Wagner fighters in Ukraine. “Shoigu cannot properly manage military formation,” said Wagner chief. He also went on to say that his group is well integrated with the Russian military and its effectiveness would be affected if they are required to report to the defence minister. Russia said it hit Leopard tanks, Bradley vehicles and Ukrainian fighter jet Earlier, on Sunday, Russia claimed that it destroyed at least seven German-made Leopard tanks and five United States-made Bradley vehicles in the past 48 hours while repelling Ukrainian attacks. ALSO READ | Russian opposition leaders meet in Brussels, fail to unite against Putin. Here's why It also later claimed that it had successfully taken down a Ukrainian Su-25 fighter jet in the Kherson region. Russian forces have also repelled three Ukrainian attacks in the Zaporizhzhia region, the ministry said. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kyiv recaptures four villages in Donetsk as Ukraine's counter-offensive begins

It's more than 15 months now since Russia invaded Ukraine. Cities like Kyiv and Bakhmut and Mariupol and Kharkiv have suddenly taken global centre stage for sheer devastation. Among them all, it's perhaps Kherson that leads the pack. For the residents here, it's been an unending nightmare.

Russia-Ukraine conflict worsening miseries for Kherson residents

French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday urged his Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi to stop backing Russia's efforts in the invasion of Ukraine.

Macron asked Raisi to "immediately end" Tehran's support to Russia in the war against Ukraine, including the supply of drones, said the Elysee Palace.

In a telephonic conversation, the French President highlighted the serious "security and humanitarian consequences" of Iran's drone deliveries "and urged Tehran to immediately end the support it thus gives to Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine", the statement said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-receiving-materials-from-iran-to-build-drone-factory-says-white-house-602656">Russia receiving material from Iran to build drone factory, says White House</a>

The call by the French President came a day after White House national security spokesman John Kirby said that Iran was sending materials to Russia to build a drone factory on its territory.

<h2>Drone factory 'could be fully operational early next year': Kirby</h2>

John Kirby said that Russia was importing materials from Iran to build the drone factory which "could be fully operational early next year".

The White House released a satellite image of the location of the forthcoming plant in the Alabuga Special Economic Zone, which was based some 900 kilometres (560 miles) east of Moscow.

"The Russia-Iran military partnership appears to be deepening," Kirby said in a statement, citing US intelligence information.

The White House said it would release a new government advisory to assist businesses and governments "to ensure they are not inadvertently contributing to Iran's (drone) programme".

According to Washington, Russia has received hundreds of attack drones and related equipment from Iran to aid Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

As per US data, Kirby said, the drones "are built in Iran, shipped across the Caspian Sea and then used operationally by Russian forces against Ukraine."

"Russia has been using Iranian UAVs in recent weeks to strike Kyiv and terrorise the Ukrainian population," he added, referring to unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones.

Washington issued the alert on what it feels are Moscow's efforts to create Iranian drones itself.

"We have information that Russia is receiving materials from Iran needed to build a UAV manufacturing plant inside Russia," Kirby said.

According to the White House, in turn, Iran is seeking to purchase Su-35 fighter jets, attack helicopters, radars, and YAK-130 combat trainer aircraft from Russia.

"We will continue to impose sanctions on the actors involved in the transfer of Iranian military equipment to Russia for use in Ukraine," AFP quoted Kirby as saying.

Iran has repeatedly denied the allegations made by the United States of sending military supplies to Russia during its war against Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday urged his Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi to stop backing Russia's efforts in the invasion of Ukraine. Macron asked Raisi to "immediately end" Tehran's support to Russia in the war against Ukraine, including the supply of drones, said the Elysee Palace.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday urged his Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi to stop backing Russia's efforts in the invasion of Ukraine. Macron asked Raisi to "immediately end" Tehran's support to Russia in the war against Ukraine, including the supply of drones, said the Elysee Palace. In a telephonic conversation, the French President highlighted the serious "security and humanitarian consequences" of Iran's drone deliveries "and urged Tehran to immediately end the support it thus gives to Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine", the statement said. Also read: Russia receiving material from Iran to build drone factory, says White House The call by the French President came a day after White House national security spokesman John Kirby said that Iran was sending materials to Russia to build a drone factory on its territory. Drone factory 'could be fully operational early next year': Kirby John Kirby said that Russia was importing materials from Iran to build the drone factory which "could be fully operational early next year". The White House released a satellite image of the location of the forthcoming plant in the Alabuga Special Economic Zone, which was based some 900 kilometres (560 miles) east of Moscow. "The Russia-Iran military partnership appears to be deepening," Kirby said in a statement, citing US intelligence information. The White House said it would release a new government advisory to assist businesses and governments "to ensure they are not inadvertently contributing to Iran's (drone) programme". According to Washington, Russia has received hundreds of attack drones and related equipment from Iran to aid Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. As per US data, Kirby said, the drones "are built in Iran, shipped across the Caspian Sea and then used operationally by Russian forces against Ukraine." "Russia has been using Iranian UAVs in recent weeks to strike Kyiv and terrorise the Ukrainian population," he added, referring to unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones. Washington issued the alert on what it feels are Moscow's efforts to create Iranian drones itself. "We have information that Russia is receiving materials from Iran needed to build a UAV manufacturing plant inside Russia," Kirby said. According to the White House, in turn, Iran is seeking to purchase Su-35 fighter jets, attack helicopters, radars, and YAK-130 combat trainer aircraft from Russia. "We will continue to impose sanctions on the actors involved in the transfer of Iranian military equipment to Russia for use in Ukraine," AFP quoted Kirby as saying. Iran has repeatedly denied the allegations made by the United States of sending military supplies to Russia during its war against Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Emmanuel Macron urges Iran to 'immediately end' support to Russia in war against Ukraine

Ukraine’s nuclear energy agency has put the last operating reactor at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station, which is deemed Europe’s largest nuclear power plant, into a "cold shutdown" as a precautionary move after the destruction of the Kakhovka dam, the agency said in a statement on Friday.

As per AP reports, five out of six reactors at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which is occupied by Russian forces, are already in a cold shutdown state.

The Ukrainian nuclear power agency Energoatom&nbsp;released a statement on Friday saying that there was "no direct threat" to the Zaporizhzhia plant due to the breach of the Kakhovka dam, which has forced mass evacuations due to flooding and has also sharply reduced water levels in a reservoir used to help cool the facility.

Energoatom said that the last reactor was put into cold shutdown on Thursday because of several other&nbsp;factors, including shelling near the site which damaged the overhead lines connecting the plant to Ukraine's energy system.

<h2>Reservoir water still cooling Ukraine nuclear plant</h2>

The UN nuclear agency on Thursday said that Europe's largest atomic power plant is still receiving water from a dam after it was breached in the fighting in Ukraine.

"Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is continuing to pump cooling water from the Kakhovka reservoir," the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said in a statement.

Earlier, on Thursday, dam operator Ukrhydroenergo's chief said that the "water level at the reservoir had gone below the critical point of 12.7 metres (42 feet)".

"This means it could no longer supply the ponds at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station to cool the plant,"&nbsp;he said on Ukrainian television.

The IAEA said in a statement that its experts were informed that the plant had estimated after a review "that it should be able to pump water from the reservoir also after its level falls below 12.7 metres".

"So far, the results indicate that the pumps can likely still be operated even if the level drops to around 11 metres or possibly lower," the IAEA said.

The agency said the review included interviews with those "who have experience and expertise".&nbsp;

"In these difficult and challenging circumstances, this is providing some more time before possibly switching to alternative water supplies," AFP quoted IAEA head Rafael Grossi as saying.

"Nevertheless, the general nuclear safety and security situation remains very precarious and potentially dangerous," added Grossi, who plans to travel to the plant next week.

He said the extent of the damage remained unknown, and it was also not clear "when and at what level the reservoir will stabilise".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine’s nuclear energy agency has put the last operating reactor at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station, which is deemed Europe’s largest nuclear power plant, into a "cold shutdown" as a precautionary move after the destruction of the Kakhovka dam, the agency said in a statement on Friday.

Ukraine’s nuclear energy agency has put the last operating reactor at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station, which is deemed Europe’s largest nuclear power plant, into a "cold shutdown" as a precautionary move after the destruction of the Kakhovka dam, the agency said in a statement on Friday. As per AP reports, five out of six reactors at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which is occupied by Russian forces, are already in a cold shutdown state. The Ukrainian nuclear power agency Energoatom released a statement on Friday saying that there was "no direct threat" to the Zaporizhzhia plant due to the breach of the Kakhovka dam, which has forced mass evacuations due to flooding and has also sharply reduced water levels in a reservoir used to help cool the facility. Energoatom said that the last reactor was put into cold shutdown on Thursday because of several other factors, including shelling near the site which damaged the overhead lines connecting the plant to Ukraine's energy system. Reservoir water still cooling Ukraine nuclear plant The UN nuclear agency on Thursday said that Europe's largest atomic power plant is still receiving water from a dam after it was breached in the fighting in Ukraine. "Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is continuing to pump cooling water from the Kakhovka reservoir," the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said in a statement. Earlier, on Thursday, dam operator Ukrhydroenergo's chief said that the "water level at the reservoir had gone below the critical point of 12.7 metres (42 feet)". "This means it could no longer supply the ponds at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station to cool the plant," he said on Ukrainian television. The IAEA said in a statement that its experts were informed that the plant had estimated after a review "that it should be able to pump water from the reservoir also after its level falls below 12.7 metres". "So far, the results indicate that the pumps can likely still be operated even if the level drops to around 11 metres or possibly lower," the IAEA said. The agency said the review included interviews with those "who have experience and expertise". "In these difficult and challenging circumstances, this is providing some more time before possibly switching to alternative water supplies," AFP quoted IAEA head Rafael Grossi as saying. "Nevertheless, the general nuclear safety and security situation remains very precarious and potentially dangerous," added Grossi, who plans to travel to the plant next week. He said the extent of the damage remained unknown, and it was also not clear "when and at what level the reservoir will stabilise". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine's nuclear agency puts last reactor at Zaporizhzhia plant on cold shutdown

Ukraine's fifth largest dam has mysteriously collapsed. Several settlements are flooded, numerous lives have been lost, land mines have been displaced, and there is fear of a humanitarian and a nuclear disaster. The big question is- Who bombed the Kakhovka dam? Listen in to Vikram Chandra.

Red Cross: The dam breach will impact locating landmines

As Ukraine confirms the launch of its counteroffensive to reclaim the territory lost to Russia. The Russian Ministry of defense has shared images of their forces shredding Ukraine's army vehicles. These fighter vehicles destroyed were provided by Western countries.

Russia says it repels many attacks by Ukraine; Ukraine claims gains in Bakhmut

As the war approaches its 16th month, there are no signs that the Russian-Ukrainian battle will slow down. Instead, Russia has upped the ante against Kiev's military in anticipation of a possible counteroffensive. Russia bombarded many areas of the war-torn nation with missiles and drones.

Has Ukraine's counteroffensive failed or is it yet to begin?

Iran unveils its first indigenous hypersonic missile 4 children injured in a gruesome knife attack in France & Germany is rocked by violence of the hard left-wing protesters in Leipzig Mohammed Saleh gets you an indepth report of the world's biggest warzones of the week in World At War.

World at War: Russia's new War Satellite exposes all western weapons in Ukraine

Ukraine: Kakhovka dam collapse | What is the real story?

Russian President Vladimir Putin seems to think so. "We can definitely state that this Ukrainian offensive has begun," he said in a video interview published on Telegram on Friday.

Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia under way

There have been numerous clues and finger-pointing in the most recent revelations over the past eight months since the most recent stream gas pipeline blast, and the mystery has not yet been solved. German investigators have now discovered a Polish connection to the underwater explosion on September 26, 2018, a series of deep sea explosions at the bottom of the Baltic Sea, and the north stream gas pipelines months after the covert bombings.

Russia-Ukraine War: Nord stream sabotage probe turns to clues inside Poland

The Air Defender exercise will last 10 days and involve up to 10,000 troops and 250 aircraft from 23 Nato member states. Sweden, which has applied to join the western military alliance, will also take part, along with Japan.

'This is intended to be defensive' NATO's largest ever European air drills

Crews worked Wednesday to rescue civilians from flooding caused by the collapse of the Kakhovka hydroelectric dam in Russian-occupied Ukraine as Kyiv and Moscow traded blame for its destruction.

Rescue efforts underway as Ukraine, Russia trade blame for dam collapse

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