A warning from Russia's defence minister vowing that there will be a harsh response after an attack near the border of Russia and Ukraine. Melissa Nakhavoly with details on the group responsible who now says more attacks are to be expected.

Russia warns of 'harsh response" after border attack

Will Wagner lead a putsch against Putin? Wagner boss Prigozhin is dropping hints about a possible revolution. What are the chances he will challenge Putin and lead an insurrection with the help of the army? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: Will Wagner lead a putsch against Putin? Prigozhin drops hints

<p>The European Union (EU) has immobilised more than €200 billion ($215 billion) in Russian central bank assets since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the latest data suggests.&nbsp;EU nations reported fresh numbers on the blocked assets after the 10th sanctions package which forced banks to divulge information on the size of their holdings.</p>

<h2><strong>EU’s commitment to make Russia pay for&nbsp;damages caused in Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>European Commission spokesperson&nbsp;Christian Wigand confirmed the number of immobilised assets in the Russian banks. Speaking on the issue during an interview, Wigand stated that “the EU is committed to ensuring that Russia pays for the damages caused in Ukraine. The EU is exploring ways of using Russian frozen and immobilised assets for that purpose.”</p>

<p>The EU and its allies have repeatedly said that Russia must pay for the damages it has inflicted on Ukraine. That belief was recently reaffirmed at the G-7 summit in Japan.</p>

<p>EU member states are also exploring ways to use some of the frozen assets to contribute towards Ukraine’s future reconstruction.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-it-has-shot-down-36-russian-drones-596275">Ukraine claims it has shot down 36 Russian drones</a></strong></p>

<p>As reported by Bloomberg, one option that is under discussion is to invest in the central bank and other Russian state assets and use any proceeds for Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>EU freezes private assets of individuals&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>EU has also frozen €24.1 billion ($25.8 billion) in Russian private assets of sanctioned individuals and entities since the invasion of Ukraine&nbsp;almost 15&nbsp;months ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The EU has also sanctioned almost 1,500 individuals and restricted exports of hundreds of goods and technologies. Many of Russia’s key revenue sources have also been targeted by the EU. However, the EU has been unsuccessful so far in freezing the assets of sanctioned Russian billionaires.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Netherlands and Norway extend support to Ukraine</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>EU is working closely with international allies</strong></h2>

<p>In his recent statements, Wigand pointed out that “the European Commission is working closely with Sweden, which holds the rotating EU presidency, to move discussions forward on proposed options to use frozen central bank assets”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The EU is also discussing its proposed plans with its international allies to ensure the necessary coordination at the international level. However, these reflections are both legally and technically complex,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The EU leaders are expected to discuss this further at their next meeting which is scheduled in the month of June this year.</p>

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The European Union (EU) has immobilised more than €200 billion ($215 billion) in Russian central bank assets since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the latest data suggests.

The European Union (EU) has immobilised more than €200 billion ($215 billion) in Russian central bank assets since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the latest data suggests. EU nations reported fresh numbers on the blocked assets after the 10th sanctions package which forced banks to divulge information on the size of their holdings. EU’s commitment to make Russia pay for damages caused in Ukraine European Commission spokesperson Christian Wigand confirmed the number of immobilised assets in the Russian banks. Speaking on the issue during an interview, Wigand stated that “the EU is committed to ensuring that Russia pays for the damages caused in Ukraine. The EU is exploring ways of using Russian frozen and immobilised assets for that purpose.” The EU and its allies have repeatedly said that Russia must pay for the damages it has inflicted on Ukraine. That belief was recently reaffirmed at the G-7 summit in Japan. EU member states are also exploring ways to use some of the frozen assets to contribute towards Ukraine’s future reconstruction. ALSO READ | Ukraine claims it has shot down 36 Russian drones As reported by Bloomberg, one option that is under discussion is to invest in the central bank and other Russian state assets and use any proceeds for Ukraine. EU freezes private assets of individuals EU has also frozen €24.1 billion ($25.8 billion) in Russian private assets of sanctioned individuals and entities since the invasion of Ukraine almost 15 months ago. The EU has also sanctioned almost 1,500 individuals and restricted exports of hundreds of goods and technologies. Many of Russia’s key revenue sources have also been targeted by the EU. However, the EU has been unsuccessful so far in freezing the assets of sanctioned Russian billionaires. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Netherlands and Norway extend support to Ukraine × EU is working closely with international allies In his recent statements, Wigand pointed out that “the European Commission is working closely with Sweden, which holds the rotating EU presidency, to move discussions forward on proposed options to use frozen central bank assets”. The EU is also discussing its proposed plans with its international allies to ensure the necessary coordination at the international level. However, these reflections are both legally and technically complex,” he said. The EU leaders are expected to discuss this further at their next meeting which is scheduled in the month of June this year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

EU has frozen over $215 billion in Russian central bank assets since Russia's invasion of Ukraine

Europe's first 3D-printed school is taking shape in Ukraine. The goal of 3D construction is not to be cheaper, but to be faster. This project is not cheaper than conventional construction, but it is ten times faster.

First Ukrainian school built using 3D printer technology

<p>In what might be called as one of the biggest incursions from Ukraine since the advent of Russia’s invasion over a year ago, two alleged anti-Kremlin armed groups have claimed responsibility for the attack in the country's western Belgorod region.</p>

<p>The authorities in Moscow have condemned Ukrainian armed groups for the attack and initiated a terrorism probe into the incident.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Kyiv has denied any involvement, saying that the assailants are Russian citizens.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine denies involvement</strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian officials after the incident said that they are watching the situation as it develops, but the country “has nothing to do with it”. Ukrainian presidential advisor Mikhaylo Podolyak suggested that Russian “guerrilla groups” might be the ones responsible for the attack that occurred on Monday.</p>

<p>Notably, Ukraine has previously denied responsibility for several reported sabotage attacks on Russian territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "The only driving political force in a totalitarian country of tightened screws is always an armed guerrilla movement. As you know, tanks are sold at any Russian military store, and underground guerrilla groups are composed of Russian citizens."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian military, on Tuesday (May 23) said that it had crushed the cross-border attack from Ukraine after deploying jets and artillery to destroy an armed group a day after they attacked the border region with armoured vehicles. Moscow also claimed that it killed over 70 “Ukrainian nationalists” and destroyed four of their armoured vehicles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Russia-installed officials, at least 12 civilians were wounded after what Moscow called a “sabotage” group incursion from Ukraine and introduced an “anti-terror regime” in the region of Belgorod.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the “anti-terror regime” grants special powers to security services, while also imposing a number of restrictions and measures, which include more security and communications surveillance in a region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In the course of the counter-terrorist operation, the nationalist formations were blocked and destroyed by air strikes and artillery fire,” said the Russian defence ministry in a statement.</p>

<p>It also said that Russia killed more than 70 Ukrainian fighters and destroyed four armoured vehicles and five pick-up trucks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following the incident, Belgorod’s governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said that civilians from nine border villages had been evacuated. However, they haven't yet been asked to return. In response to the alleged attack, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, “What happened yesterday is a cause for deep concern and once again confirms that Ukrainian militants continue their activities against our country.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kremlin said that Putin has been informed about the incident. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian news agencies that the "defence ministry, the FSB (security service) and the border service reported to the Russian president about an attempt of a Ukrainian sabotage group to break into the Belgorod region".&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Peskov said the incursion was designed to "divert attention" from Bakhmut and "minimise" Ukraine's loss of the eastern city, which Moscow claimed to capture.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Two ‘anti-Kremlin’ groups claim responsibility</strong></h2>

<p>As per Reuters reports, two groups claimed responsibility for the incursion - the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC) and the Freedom of Russia Legion.</p>

<p><strong>RUSSIAN VOLUNTEER CORPS</strong></p>

<p>Founded by a far-right Russian national in the month of August last year, the group comprises Russians who have been fighting in and for Ukraine against their own country, as per Reuters reports.</p>

<p>The group had claimed responsibility for a raid over the border in Russian territory in the month of March and also for the incursion into Belgorod.</p>

<p>According to Reuters, the Ukrainian military intelligence agency said that the RVC is an 'independent underground group' inside Russia that also has a unit in the Ukrainian Foreign Legion. However, the Foreign Legion says it has 'nothing to do' with the RVC.</p>

<p>A video posted by the RVC, seen by the news agency Reuters, claims to have seized an armoured Russian personal carrier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reuters was able to identify one of the men as Ilya Bogdanov, a Russian national who received Ukrainian citizenship in 2015 after fighting for Kyiv against Russian-backed forces in Ukraine's east.</p>

<p><strong>FREEDOM OF RUSSIA LEGION&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Freedom of Russia Legion is said to be formed in the year 2022 "out of the wish of Russians to fight in the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine against Putin's armed gang."</p>

<p>According to the reports, the group is a Ukraine-based Russian militia group which cooperates with the Ukrainian armed forces and works under Ukrainian command.</p>

<p>It has claimed responsibility for the attack in Belgorod and asserts it has been fighting in eastern Ukraine.</p>

<p>On Monday, the Ukrainian military intelligence agency's spokesperson released a statement saying that the infiltrations in Belgorod only involved Russian citizens and that they were making efforts to create a 'security zone' to safeguard the Ukrainian civilians. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Leader of </strong>RVC<strong> warns Russia to expect more incursions</strong></h2>

<p>Combatants of the groups, the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC) and Freedom of Russia Legion, which took responsibility for the incursions in Russia’s western Belgorod region, spoke to the media on Wednesday (May 24).</p>

<p>They held a news conference at a forest clearing in northern Ukraine, near the Russian border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The leaders of the group while speaking to the reporters said that the Belgorod raid was their "first step" and that they would "continue to conduct more incursions into Russian territory in the near future".</p>

<p>"I think you will see us again on that side," said Denis Kapustin, who introduced himself as the commander of the Russian Volunteer Corps group. "I cannot reveal those upcoming things, I cannot even reveal the direction. The ... border is pretty long. Yet again there will be a spot where things will get hot."</p>

<p>"You should be just a little bit patient, and wait just a couple of days to see us again on that side," Kapustin said in Russian referring to the Russian side of the border.</p>

<p>"The operation is ongoing. This is how I should put it, to be honest. It definitely has different phases. So, phase one we consider the successful phase, it's over now. But, the operation is ongoing," he said in English.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

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In what might be called as one of the biggest incursions from Ukraine since the advent of Russia’s invasion over a year ago, two alleged anti-Kremlin armed groups have claimed responsibility for the attack in the country's western Belgorod region.

In what might be called as one of the biggest incursions from Ukraine since the advent of Russia’s invasion over a year ago, two alleged anti-Kremlin armed groups have claimed responsibility for the attack in the country's western Belgorod region. The authorities in Moscow have condemned Ukrainian armed groups for the attack and initiated a terrorism probe into the incident. Meanwhile, Kyiv has denied any involvement, saying that the assailants are Russian citizens. Ukraine denies involvement Ukrainian officials after the incident said that they are watching the situation as it develops, but the country “has nothing to do with it”. Ukrainian presidential advisor Mikhaylo Podolyak suggested that Russian “guerrilla groups” might be the ones responsible for the attack that occurred on Monday. Notably, Ukraine has previously denied responsibility for several reported sabotage attacks on Russian territory. He said, "The only driving political force in a totalitarian country of tightened screws is always an armed guerrilla movement. As you know, tanks are sold at any Russian military store, and underground guerrilla groups are composed of Russian citizens." The Russian military, on Tuesday (May 23) said that it had crushed the cross-border attack from Ukraine after deploying jets and artillery to destroy an armed group a day after they attacked the border region with armoured vehicles. Moscow also claimed that it killed over 70 “Ukrainian nationalists” and destroyed four of their armoured vehicles. According to Russia-installed officials, at least 12 civilians were wounded after what Moscow called a “sabotage” group incursion from Ukraine and introduced an “anti-terror regime” in the region of Belgorod. Notably, the “anti-terror regime” grants special powers to security services, while also imposing a number of restrictions and measures, which include more security and communications surveillance in a region. “In the course of the counter-terrorist operation, the nationalist formations were blocked and destroyed by air strikes and artillery fire,” said the Russian defence ministry in a statement. It also said that Russia killed more than 70 Ukrainian fighters and destroyed four armoured vehicles and five pick-up trucks. Following the incident, Belgorod’s governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said that civilians from nine border villages had been evacuated. However, they haven't yet been asked to return. In response to the alleged attack, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, “What happened yesterday is a cause for deep concern and once again confirms that Ukrainian militants continue their activities against our country.” The Kremlin said that Putin has been informed about the incident. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian news agencies that the "defence ministry, the FSB (security service) and the border service reported to the Russian president about an attempt of a Ukrainian sabotage group to break into the Belgorod region". Peskov said the incursion was designed to "divert attention" from Bakhmut and "minimise" Ukraine's loss of the eastern city, which Moscow claimed to capture. Two ‘anti-Kremlin’ groups claim responsibility As per Reuters reports, two groups claimed responsibility for the incursion - the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC) and the Freedom of Russia Legion. RUSSIAN VOLUNTEER CORPS Founded by a far-right Russian national in the month of August last year, the group comprises Russians who have been fighting in and for Ukraine against their own country, as per Reuters reports. The group had claimed responsibility for a raid over the border in Russian territory in the month of March and also for the incursion into Belgorod. According to Reuters, the Ukrainian military intelligence agency said that the RVC is an 'independent underground group' inside Russia that also has a unit in the Ukrainian Foreign Legion. However, the Foreign Legion says it has 'nothing to do' with the RVC. A video posted by the RVC, seen by the news agency Reuters, claims to have seized an armoured Russian personal carrier. Reuters was able to identify one of the men as Ilya Bogdanov, a Russian national who received Ukrainian citizenship in 2015 after fighting for Kyiv against Russian-backed forces in Ukraine's east. FREEDOM OF RUSSIA LEGION Freedom of Russia Legion is said to be formed in the year 2022 "out of the wish of Russians to fight in the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine against Putin's armed gang." According to the reports, the group is a Ukraine-based Russian militia group which cooperates with the Ukrainian armed forces and works under Ukrainian command. It has claimed responsibility for the attack in Belgorod and asserts it has been fighting in eastern Ukraine. On Monday, the Ukrainian military intelligence agency's spokesperson released a statement saying that the infiltrations in Belgorod only involved Russian citizens and that they were making efforts to create a 'security zone' to safeguard the Ukrainian civilians. Leader of RVC warns Russia to expect more incursions Combatants of the groups, the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC) and Freedom of Russia Legion, which took responsibility for the incursions in Russia’s western Belgorod region, spoke to the media on Wednesday (May 24). They held a news conference at a forest clearing in northern Ukraine, near the Russian border. The leaders of the group while speaking to the reporters said that the Belgorod raid was their "first step" and that they would "continue to conduct more incursions into Russian territory in the near future". "I think you will see us again on that side," said Denis Kapustin, who introduced himself as the commander of the Russian Volunteer Corps group. "I cannot reveal those upcoming things, I cannot even reveal the direction. The ... border is pretty long. Yet again there will be a spot where things will get hot." "You should be just a little bit patient, and wait just a couple of days to see us again on that side," Kapustin said in Russian referring to the Russian side of the border. "The operation is ongoing. This is how I should put it, to be honest. It definitely has different phases. So, phase one we consider the successful phase, it's over now. But, the operation is ongoing," he said in English. (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

Explained | Belgorod raid: The combatants who infiltrated Russia and infuriated Putin

<p>The head of Russia’s Wagner mercenary group, which has been spearheading Moscow’s fight in the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, on Thursday (May 25) said his fighters have begun transferring their positions to the Russian army.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The change was seemingly confirmed by Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar who said that Wagner fighters have been replaced by regular soldiers in the outskirts of Bakhmut.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Wagner’s withdrawal from Bakhmut</strong></h2>

<p>The announcement was made by the Wagner group’s founder Yevgeny Prigozhin in a video published on Thursday. “We are withdrawing the units from Bakhmut. From today at five in the morning, May 25 until June 1, most of the units will rebase to camps in the rear,” said the Wagner chief.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
He added, “We are handing over positions to the military, ammunition and everything. We pull back, we rest, we prepare and then we will get new tasks.” The video was published on messaging app Telegram where Prigozhin was seen dressed in tactical body armour and a military helmet standing beside a war-damaged residential block.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Wagner chief, who has repeatedly criticised Russian defence officials, as per media reports, also said that his fighters would return to Bakhmut if the military is unable to manage the situation in the Ukrainian city which has witnessed some of the bloodiest battles amid the ongoing conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine partially confirms the switch</strong></h2>

<p>The Ukrainian deputy defence minister also took to Telegram and has at least partially confirmed the announcement by the Wagner chief. “In Bakhmut’s outskirts, the enemy has replaced Wagner units with regular army forces. Inside the city itself, Wagner fighters remain,” said Maliar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She also said that Russia is also reinforcing its positions on the flanks of Bakhmut and continued shelling to stop Ukrainian forces from advancing to the north and south of the city. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Ukraine’s eastern military command, Serhiy Cherevatyi, said that Kyiv has noted a drop in the number of Russian attacks in the past three days or so.</p>

<p>There have been two military engagements in the last 24 hours, said the military spokesperson, adding that the shelling has continued. “We can definitely note a reduction in attacks and possibly this is linked to their regrouping. It is clear that we have inflicted heavy losses and they need this (to regroup),” said Cherevatyi, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

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The head of Russia’s Wagner mercenary group, which has been spearheading Moscow’s fight in the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, on Thursday (May 25) said his fighters have begun transferring their positions to the Russian army.

The head of Russia’s Wagner mercenary group, which has been spearheading Moscow’s fight in the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, on Thursday (May 25) said his fighters have begun transferring their positions to the Russian army. The change was seemingly confirmed by Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar who said that Wagner fighters have been replaced by regular soldiers in the outskirts of Bakhmut. Wagner’s withdrawal from Bakhmut The announcement was made by the Wagner group’s founder Yevgeny Prigozhin in a video published on Thursday. “We are withdrawing the units from Bakhmut. From today at five in the morning, May 25 until June 1, most of the units will rebase to camps in the rear,” said the Wagner chief. He added, “We are handing over positions to the military, ammunition and everything. We pull back, we rest, we prepare and then we will get new tasks.” The video was published on messaging app Telegram where Prigozhin was seen dressed in tactical body armour and a military helmet standing beside a war-damaged residential block. The Wagner chief, who has repeatedly criticised Russian defence officials, as per media reports, also said that his fighters would return to Bakhmut if the military is unable to manage the situation in the Ukrainian city which has witnessed some of the bloodiest battles amid the ongoing conflict. Ukraine partially confirms the switch The Ukrainian deputy defence minister also took to Telegram and has at least partially confirmed the announcement by the Wagner chief. “In Bakhmut’s outskirts, the enemy has replaced Wagner units with regular army forces. Inside the city itself, Wagner fighters remain,” said Maliar. She also said that Russia is also reinforcing its positions on the flanks of Bakhmut and continued shelling to stop Ukrainian forces from advancing to the north and south of the city. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Ukraine’s eastern military command, Serhiy Cherevatyi, said that Kyiv has noted a drop in the number of Russian attacks in the past three days or so. There have been two military engagements in the last 24 hours, said the military spokesperson, adding that the shelling has continued. “We can definitely note a reduction in attacks and possibly this is linked to their regrouping. It is clear that we have inflicted heavy losses and they need this (to regroup),” said Cherevatyi, as quoted by Reuters. (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.

Russia’s Wagner withdraws fighters from Bakhmut, military to take over; Ukraine partially confirms

Several Nations have stepped up their aid to Ukraine this not only includes providing weapons but also training its pilots on the use of F-16 fighter jets. Kyiv has said that it needs these Jets to resist the Russian invasion the support comes amid an intensified offensive by Moscow. The U.S. approved the sale of an air defense system and other related equipment to Ukraine worth 285 billion dollars.

Russia-Ukraine war: Netherlands and Norway extend support to Ukraine

Russia has warned Ukraine that it will respond with extreme harshness to all future incursions. This came after it made fresh-sabotage allegations against Ukraine in the aftermath of a cross-border raid in Belgorod region. Meanwhile several Nations have stepped up support to keep as it faces an intensified offensive by Moscow. Russia says that it has ended an attack on its warship in Turkish Waters. Russian defense Ministry made the claim blaming it on Ukraine and said that the Russian vessel had been tasked with guarding pipeline infrastructure in Turkish Waters.

Kyiv accused of another sabotage attempt in Turkish waters

<p>Some 36 Iranian-made attack drones launched by Russia were downed, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the country's military claimed on Thursday (May 25). Zelensky alleged that Russia was trying to 'terrorise' Ukraine.</p>

<p>"The enemy continued to terrorise Ukraine by launching 36 Shaheds. None reached their target," Zelensky said in a social media post.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Moscow-appointed governor in Russian-annexed Crimea said that six drones were shot down or blocked in the region. Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"During the past night, six drones were shot down or blocked ... in different parts of Crimea," Sergei Aksyonov wrote on Telegram, adding "there were no victims or injured".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Netherlands and Norway extend support to Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>The incident comes after Moscow deployed jets and artillery against an armed group that crossed from Ukraine in the most serious attack on its soil since Moscow's offensive began in February 2022.</p>

<p>Earlier on Wednesday (May 24), governor of Russian region of Belgorod, Vyacheslav Gladkov said that the territory was targetted overnight by numerous drones.</p>

<p>Regional authorities said 13 people were injured. The area had come under sustained mortar and artillery fire. Russia later claimed that its forces had killed &nbsp;"more than 70 Ukrainian terrorists".</p>

<p>Ukraine has already maintained that it had nothing to do with the attack in Belgorod.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-wagner-chief-warns-russia-could-face-revolution-unless-596238">Ukraine war: Wagner chief warns Russia could face revolution unless...</a></strong></p>

<p>The alleged perpetrators of the incursion hailed the "success" of the operation, telling Ukrainian media on Wednesday that they had highlighted the weakness of Russia's defences.</p>

<p>"I want to prove to them that we can fight against tyrants and that (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's power is not unlimited," said Denis Kapustin of the Russian Volunteer Corps, which claimed the sortie.</p>

<p>Kapustin, nicknamed "White Rex", is well-known in far-right circles in Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>US nod for $285mn military sale to Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>The United States meanwhile announced the approval of a $285 million sale of NASAMS air defence system and related equipment. This is likely to boost Ukraine's protection against Russian strikes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Ukraine has an urgent need to increase its capabilities to defend against Russian missile strikes and aircraft," the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a statement. "Acquiring and effectively deploying this capability will enhance Ukraine's ability to defend its people and protect critical national infrastructure."</p>

<p>The sale will support US foreign policy national security goal&nbsp;by "improving the security of a partner country that is a force for political stability and economic progress in Europe," said the agency.</p>

<p>Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained territorial gains in first few months of the war, Russian troops had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counter-offensive.</p>

<p>The West, led by the US has poured in millions of dollars in humanitarian as well as military aid to Ukraine. This has significantly boosted Ukraine's capacity to defend and gain territory.</p>

<p><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></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>

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Some 36 Iranian-made attack drones launched by Russia were downed, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the country's military claimed on Thursday (May 25).

Some 36 Iranian-made attack drones launched by Russia were downed, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the country's military claimed on Thursday (May 25). Zelensky alleged that Russia was trying to 'terrorise' Ukraine. "The enemy continued to terrorise Ukraine by launching 36 Shaheds. None reached their target," Zelensky said in a social media post. Meanwhile, the Moscow-appointed governor in Russian-annexed Crimea said that six drones were shot down or blocked in the region. Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. "During the past night, six drones were shot down or blocked ... in different parts of Crimea," Sergei Aksyonov wrote on Telegram, adding "there were no victims or injured". Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Netherlands and Norway extend support to Ukraine × The incident comes after Moscow deployed jets and artillery against an armed group that crossed from Ukraine in the most serious attack on its soil since Moscow's offensive began in February 2022. Earlier on Wednesday (May 24), governor of Russian region of Belgorod, Vyacheslav Gladkov said that the territory was targetted overnight by numerous drones. Regional authorities said 13 people were injured. The area had come under sustained mortar and artillery fire. Russia later claimed that its forces had killed "more than 70 Ukrainian terrorists". Ukraine has already maintained that it had nothing to do with the attack in Belgorod. Also Read | Ukraine war: Wagner chief warns Russia could face revolution unless... The alleged perpetrators of the incursion hailed the "success" of the operation, telling Ukrainian media on Wednesday that they had highlighted the weakness of Russia's defences. "I want to prove to them that we can fight against tyrants and that (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's power is not unlimited," said Denis Kapustin of the Russian Volunteer Corps, which claimed the sortie. Kapustin, nicknamed "White Rex", is well-known in far-right circles in Russia. US nod for $285mn military sale to Ukraine The United States meanwhile announced the approval of a $285 million sale of NASAMS air defence system and related equipment. This is likely to boost Ukraine's protection against Russian strikes. "Ukraine has an urgent need to increase its capabilities to defend against Russian missile strikes and aircraft," the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a statement. "Acquiring and effectively deploying this capability will enhance Ukraine's ability to defend its people and protect critical national infrastructure." The sale will support US foreign policy national security goal by "improving the security of a partner country that is a force for political stability and economic progress in Europe," said the agency. Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained territorial gains in first few months of the war, Russian troops had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counter-offensive. The West, led by the US has poured in millions of dollars in humanitarian as well as military aid to Ukraine. This has significantly boosted Ukraine's capacity to defend and gain territory. (Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.) (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine claims it has shot down 36 Russian drones

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will physically attend the Japan-hosted G7 conference in Hiroshima in person,&nbsp;Washington Post reported citing those acquainted with the planning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky was originally expected to participate virtually in the G7 meeting on Sunday, according to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, but the Ukrainian president is now expected to travel to Hiroshima for the summit. However, it is not ascertained as to which day from the three-day-long summit he will attend.&nbsp;Zelensky's visit was initially reported by The Financial Times.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-prohibits-employees-from-using-openais-chatgpt-report-593888">Apple bans employees from using OpenAI's ChatGPT</a></p>

<p>One of the main topics of discussion at the event this weekend at the G7 summit is going to be the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The world's greatest economic powers on Friday will adopt further sanctions against Russia in an effort to penalise the nation for the invasion.</p>

<p>A top US official on the condition of anonymity said,&nbsp;“We will continue to expand export controls to make it even harder for Russia to sustain its war machine." “This involves extensively restricting categories of goods key to the battlefield, and also cutting off roughly 70 entities from Russia and third countries from receiving U.S. exports by adding them to the Commerce blacklist,” the official added.</p>

<p>Over 300 new entities will also be included in the new package and it will target people, organisations, ships, and aeroplanes. “These will go after circumvention. These will go after financial facilitators, as well as future energy and extractive capabilities of Russia and other actors helping to support the war,” the official said.</p>

<p>“This will include designations across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.”</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-half-of-worlds-large-lakes-and-reservoirs-drying-up-study-593879">More than half of world's large lakes and reservoirs drying up: Study</a></p>

<p>The G7, or Group of Seven, is a grouping of powerful economies that includes Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States.&nbsp;The group meets annually to discuss various global economic and political issues. Sanctions against Russia have been a topic of discussion and action by G7 member countries in response to various events and concerns.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These sanctions have typically been implemented in response to Russia's actions in Ukraine, including the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its ongoing involvement in the conflict in eastern Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Japan to join India's UPI payment system, says Kono Taro, Japan's Digital Minister</strong></p>

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<p>The G7 countries, along with other nations, have imposed economic sanctions and travel bans on Russian individuals, entities, and sectors as a means of expressing their disapproval and seeking to modify Russia's behavior.&nbsp;The member countries have used these platforms to coordinate their response, exchange information, and express their unified position on the issue.</p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will physically attend the Japan-hosted G7 conference in Hiroshima in person, Washington Post reported citing those acquainted with the planning.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will physically attend the Japan-hosted G7 conference in Hiroshima in person, Washington Post reported citing those acquainted with the planning. Zelensky was originally expected to participate virtually in the G7 meeting on Sunday, according to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, but the Ukrainian president is now expected to travel to Hiroshima for the summit. However, it is not ascertained as to which day from the three-day-long summit he will attend. Zelensky's visit was initially reported by The Financial Times. Also Read | Apple bans employees from using OpenAI's ChatGPT One of the main topics of discussion at the event this weekend at the G7 summit is going to be the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The world's greatest economic powers on Friday will adopt further sanctions against Russia in an effort to penalise the nation for the invasion. A top US official on the condition of anonymity said, “We will continue to expand export controls to make it even harder for Russia to sustain its war machine." “This involves extensively restricting categories of goods key to the battlefield, and also cutting off roughly 70 entities from Russia and third countries from receiving U.S. exports by adding them to the Commerce blacklist,” the official added. Over 300 new entities will also be included in the new package and it will target people, organisations, ships, and aeroplanes. “These will go after circumvention. These will go after financial facilitators, as well as future energy and extractive capabilities of Russia and other actors helping to support the war,” the official said. “This will include designations across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.” Also Read | More than half of world's large lakes and reservoirs drying up: Study The G7, or Group of Seven, is a grouping of powerful economies that includes Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The group meets annually to discuss various global economic and political issues. Sanctions against Russia have been a topic of discussion and action by G7 member countries in response to various events and concerns. These sanctions have typically been implemented in response to Russia's actions in Ukraine, including the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its ongoing involvement in the conflict in eastern Ukraine. Watch | Japan to join India's UPI payment system, says Kono Taro, Japan's Digital Minister × The G7 countries, along with other nations, have imposed economic sanctions and travel bans on Russian individuals, entities, and sectors as a means of expressing their disapproval and seeking to modify Russia's behavior. The member countries have used these platforms to coordinate their response, exchange information, and express their unified position on the issue. 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 to attend Japan-hosted G7 summit in person

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Despite Russian claims to have captured the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, top military leaders in Ukraine insist the grinding nine-month battle there is not over.

Battle for Bakhmut: Ukraine military claims battle not over | WION Speed News

Russia has said more than 70 attackers were killed in its operation to repel cross-border raiders who entered the country’s Belgorod region from Ukraine and battled with Russian forces for an estimated 24 hours before retreating from Russian territory.

Russia claims 70 attackers killed in cross-border Belgorod raid

<p>The United States claimed that it had no involvement in a recent incursion into Russia which Moscow claimed ended with armed insurgents' defeat, who had crossed the border from Ukraine.</p>

<p>On Monday, parts of Belgorod's border region were under attack which was a major cross-border raid&nbsp;since Ukraine was invaded by Russia last year.</p>

<p>Later, Russia released pictures of damaged or abandoned Western military vehicles, which included US-made Humvees.</p>

<p>However, the US claimed it did not "encourage or enable strikes inside of Russia".</p>

<p>The reports "circulating on social media and elsewhere" which claimed that the invaders had used US-supplied weapons were acknowledged by a state department spokesperson.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, Matthew Miller said, "I will say that we’re sceptical at this time of the veracity of these reports. As a more general principle, as we’ve said and I believe I said yesterday, we do not encourage or enable strikes inside of Russia, and we’ve made that clear. But as we’ve also said, it is up to Ukraine to decide how to conduct this war."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/airforce-artillery-used-to-push-back-border-attackers-70-ukrainian-nationalists-russian-defence-ministry-595645">Air Force, artillery used to push back border attackers, 70 ‘Ukrainian nationalists’ killed, says Russia</a></p>

<h2><strong>A counter-terrorism operation, claims Russia</strong></h2>

<p>The authorities evacuated villages in Belgorod, which were near the border after it came under shellfire. Russia said that 70 attackers had lost their lives and further insisted that they were Ukrainian.</p>

<p>However, Kyiv denied involvement and two Russian paramilitary groups, who oppose Russian President Vladimir Putin, claimed their involvement in the incursion.</p>

<p>However, Monday's raid was declared by Russia as a counter-terrorism operation as it gave special powers to authorities to clamp down on people's movements and communications.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The officials lifted the measures on Tuesday afternoon, and even then a paramilitary group claimed it still controlled a "small, but our own piece of the Motherland".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Belgorod's governor stated one civilian was killed in the violence, and several others suffered injuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine's Eastern outpost witnesses fresh assault by Russia</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Drone attack on Belgorod&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov on Tuesday evening said that Belgorod faced a fresh attack from a drone which was used to drop an explosive device that damaged a car.</p>

<p>He added that the army shot down the flying vehicle and no new casualties were reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking about the hostilities in Belgorod, Russia's defence ministry said a "unit of the Ukrainian nationalist formation" had invaded its territory to carry out attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Ukrainian officials insisted that the attackers were Russians and belonged to groups known as the Liberty of Russia Legion and the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC).</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The United States claimed that it had no involvement in a recent incursion into Russia which Moscow claimed ended with armed insurgents' defeat, who had crossed the border from Ukraine.

The United States claimed that it had no involvement in a recent incursion into Russia which Moscow claimed ended with armed insurgents' defeat, who had crossed the border from Ukraine. On Monday, parts of Belgorod's border region were under attack which was a major cross-border raid since Ukraine was invaded by Russia last year. Later, Russia released pictures of damaged or abandoned Western military vehicles, which included US-made Humvees. However, the US claimed it did not "encourage or enable strikes inside of Russia". The reports "circulating on social media and elsewhere" which claimed that the invaders had used US-supplied weapons were acknowledged by a state department spokesperson. Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, Matthew Miller said, "I will say that we’re sceptical at this time of the veracity of these reports. As a more general principle, as we’ve said and I believe I said yesterday, we do not encourage or enable strikes inside of Russia, and we’ve made that clear. But as we’ve also said, it is up to Ukraine to decide how to conduct this war." ALSO READ | Air Force, artillery used to push back border attackers, 70 ‘Ukrainian nationalists’ killed, says Russia A counter-terrorism operation, claims Russia The authorities evacuated villages in Belgorod, which were near the border after it came under shellfire. Russia said that 70 attackers had lost their lives and further insisted that they were Ukrainian. However, Kyiv denied involvement and two Russian paramilitary groups, who oppose Russian President Vladimir Putin, claimed their involvement in the incursion. However, Monday's raid was declared by Russia as a counter-terrorism operation as it gave special powers to authorities to clamp down on people's movements and communications. The officials lifted the measures on Tuesday afternoon, and even then a paramilitary group claimed it still controlled a "small, but our own piece of the Motherland". Belgorod's governor stated one civilian was killed in the violence, and several others suffered injuries. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine's Eastern outpost witnesses fresh assault by Russia Drone attack on Belgorod Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov on Tuesday evening said that Belgorod faced a fresh attack from a drone which was used to drop an explosive device that damaged a car. He added that the army shot down the flying vehicle and no new casualties were reported. Speaking about the hostilities in Belgorod, Russia's defence ministry said a "unit of the Ukrainian nationalist formation" had invaded its territory to carry out attacks. However, Ukrainian officials insisted that the attackers were Russians and belonged to groups known as the Liberty of Russia Legion and the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC). (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

Belgorod incursion: US insists it did not encourage or enable strikes inside of Russia

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: US journalist detained in Russia for espionage, Russia intercepts US jets over Baltic Sea, NATO Chief defends NATO training Ukraine pilots on F-16 fighter jets, Russia reports Ukrainian attackers near Belgorod.

US journalist detained in Russia for espionage | Russia intercepts US jets | WION Speed News

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<p>The US has said the transfer of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine would take 'months' and that it will not be a dramatic game changer which will alter the course of hostilities in favour of Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It will give the Ukrainians transitional capabilities they don’t have now, but it won’t be a dramatic game changer...it won’t fundamentally change the equation,” said Frank Kendall, the Secretary of the US Air Force at a meeting with the Washington-based Defence Writers Group.</p>

<p>Kendall reiterated that it would take 'several months at best' to supply the multi-role fighter jet.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Biden sets the plan in motion</strong></h2>

<p>The statement by the top Pentagon official comes days after US President Joe Biden endorsed training programmes for Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets, laying the groundwork for their eventual transfer to Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan will discuss with allies in the coming months regarding which country will eventually transfer the F-16 fighter jets to Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky pressing for the jets&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian President Zelensky had been pushing the Western allies to supply the F-16 jets for months now. The Ukrainian leader discussed the proposition yet again during his appearance at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan.</p>

<p>Biden said Zelensky had given 'flat assurances' to him that the F-16 fighter jets will not be used to attack Russian territory.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have a flat assurance from Zelensky that they will not use it to go on and move onto Russian geographic territory, but wherever Russian troops are within Ukraine and the area, they would be able to do that," Biden told reporters on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv is in desperate need of more arms and advanced jets, especially after Moscow's Wagner private military unit claimed it had finally managed to take full control of the ruined eastern city of Bakhmut after months of vicious fighting.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-focuses-on-upping-its-air-defence-systems-594853"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine focuses on upping its air defence systems</strong></a></p>

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<h2>Moscow issues warning</h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Russia, closely monitoring the developments has repeatedly warned the West that providing Kyiv with F-16 fighter jets would carry ‘colossal risks’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We see that Western countries are still adhering to the escalation scenario. It involves colossal risks for themselves," said Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In any case, this will be taken into account in all our plans, and we have all the necessary means to achieve the goals we have set.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-west-supplying-f-16-jets-to-ukraine-would-carry-colossal-risks-594646" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Russia says West's supply of F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry ‘colossal risks’</strong></a></p>

<p>Russia's Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov also questioned NATO on what would happen if American soldiers took off from its&nbsp;airfields to protect Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What will happen if the American fighters take off from NATO airfields, controlled by foreign 'volunteers'?" he questioned.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The US has said the transfer of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine would take 'months' and that it will not be a dramatic game changer which will alter the course of hostilities in favour of Kyiv.

The US has said the transfer of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine would take 'months' and that it will not be a dramatic game changer which will alter the course of hostilities in favour of Kyiv. “It will give the Ukrainians transitional capabilities they don’t have now, but it won’t be a dramatic game changer...it won’t fundamentally change the equation,” said Frank Kendall, the Secretary of the US Air Force at a meeting with the Washington-based Defence Writers Group. Kendall reiterated that it would take 'several months at best' to supply the multi-role fighter jet. Biden sets the plan in motion The statement by the top Pentagon official comes days after US President Joe Biden endorsed training programmes for Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets, laying the groundwork for their eventual transfer to Kyiv. Meanwhile, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan will discuss with allies in the coming months regarding which country will eventually transfer the F-16 fighter jets to Kyiv. Zelensky pressing for the jets Ukrainian President Zelensky had been pushing the Western allies to supply the F-16 jets for months now. The Ukrainian leader discussed the proposition yet again during his appearance at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan. Biden said Zelensky had given 'flat assurances' to him that the F-16 fighter jets will not be used to attack Russian territory. "I have a flat assurance from Zelensky that they will not use it to go on and move onto Russian geographic territory, but wherever Russian troops are within Ukraine and the area, they would be able to do that," Biden told reporters on Sunday. Kyiv is in desperate need of more arms and advanced jets, especially after Moscow's Wagner private military unit claimed it had finally managed to take full control of the ruined eastern city of Bakhmut after months of vicious fighting. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine focuses on upping its air defence systems × Moscow issues warning Meanwhile, Russia, closely monitoring the developments has repeatedly warned the West that providing Kyiv with F-16 fighter jets would carry ‘colossal risks’. “We see that Western countries are still adhering to the escalation scenario. It involves colossal risks for themselves," said Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko. “In any case, this will be taken into account in all our plans, and we have all the necessary means to achieve the goals we have set.” ALSO READ | Russia says West's supply of F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry ‘colossal risks’ Russia's Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov also questioned NATO on what would happen if American soldiers took off from its airfields to protect Ukraine. "What will happen if the American fighters take off from NATO airfields, controlled by foreign 'volunteers'?" he questioned. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'It won't be a game changer...': Top US Air force official on transfer of F-16s to Kyiv

Are intel agencies fighting a parallel war in Ukraine? Reports indicate, how secret groups & spies on both sides are trying to change the course of the war. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas | Ukraine War: Are intel agencies fighting a parallel battle?

<p>The Russian military, on Tuesday (May 23) said that it had crushed the cross-border attack from Ukraine after deploying jets and artillery to destroy an armed group a day after they attacked the border region with armoured vehicles. Moscow also claimed that it killed over 70 “Ukrainian nationalists” and destroyed four of their armoured vehicles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per media reports, in what might be one of the biggest incursions from Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s invasion over a year ago, two purported anti-Kremlin armed groups have claimed responsibility for the attack on Russia’s Belgorod region. While authorities in Moscow blamed Ukrainian officials for the attack, Kyiv has denied any involvement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian officials after the incident said that they are watching the situation as it develops but “has nothing to do with it”. Meanwhile, Ukrainian presidential advisor Mikhaylo Podolyak suggested that Russian “guerrilla groups” might&nbsp;be responsible for the Monday attack.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia responds to the incursion</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Russian military said it had deployed jets and artillery to destroy the armed group in what Moscow has described as a “counter-terrorist operation”.<br />
<br />
According to Russia-installed officials, at least 12 civilians were injured after what Moscow called a “sabotage” group incursion from Ukraine and introduced an “anti-terror regime” in the region of Belgorod.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the “anti-terror regime” grants special powers to security services while also imposing a number of restrictions and measures which include more security and communications surveillance in a region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In the course of the counter-terrorist operation, the nationalist formations were blocked and destroyed by air strikes and artillery fire,” said the Russian defence ministry in a statement. It also said that Russia killed more than 70 Ukrainian fighters and destroyed four armoured vehicles and five pick-up trucks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “The remnants of the nationalists were pushed back to Ukrainian territory, where they continued to be hit by gunfire until they were completely eliminated.” Earlier, local authorities had said the Belgorod region in Russia had come under sustained artillery and mortar fire by a group it claimed had crossed from Ukraine.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Following the incident, Belgorod’s governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said that civilians from nine border villages had been evacuated. However, they haven't yet been asked to return. In response to the alleged attack, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, “What happened yesterday is a cause for deep concern and once again confirms that Ukrainian militants continue their activities against our country.”&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Gladkov also took to Telegram, on Tuesday, to report one death due to the incursion&nbsp;and said "To our great regret, we do have casualties. A peaceful civilian -&nbsp;a resident of the settlement of Kozinka, died at the hands of Ukrainian forces. Our most sincere condolences go to all their relatives and loved ones."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Two ‘anti-Kremlin’ groups claim responsibility</strong></h2>

<p>There are two groups which have claimed responsibility for the incursion – the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC) and the Freedom of Russia Legion, reported Reuters. The RVC is reportedly founded by Moscow-born Denis Kapustin, also known as Denis Nikitin, who has described himself as a nationalist fighting for a Russia that belongs to ethnic Russians, as per the news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Freedom of Russia Legion is said to be a Ukraine-based Russian militia group which is reportedly led by Russian opposition figure Ilya Ponomarev. The group is working inside Russia to supposedly overthrow Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A video released by a Telegram channel, seen by the news agency AFP, claims to represent one of the anti-Kremlin groups which shows a camouflaged spokesman, surrounded by armed men in fatigues. The footage in question was released on Monday, in which&nbsp;the person said “Russia will be free!” a slogan frequently used by the Russian opposition.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian President&nbsp;visits&nbsp;eastern&nbsp;frontline</strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Tuesday, visited the Marines on the eastern front line and also presented awards to the commanders of several&nbsp;units. “Happy Marines Day, especially to such strong people who are in one of the hottest but also one of the strongest… sectors – the Vuhledar-Marinka direction,” said the Ukrainian president, in a video posted on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

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The Russian military, on Tuesday (May 23) said that it had crushed the cross-border attack from Ukraine after deploying jets and artillery to destroy an armed group a day after they attacked the border region with armoured vehicles.

The Russian military, on Tuesday (May 23) said that it had crushed the cross-border attack from Ukraine after deploying jets and artillery to destroy an armed group a day after they attacked the border region with armoured vehicles. Moscow also claimed that it killed over 70 “Ukrainian nationalists” and destroyed four of their armoured vehicles. As per media reports, in what might be one of the biggest incursions from Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s invasion over a year ago, two purported anti-Kremlin armed groups have claimed responsibility for the attack on Russia’s Belgorod region. While authorities in Moscow blamed Ukrainian officials for the attack, Kyiv has denied any involvement. Ukrainian officials after the incident said that they are watching the situation as it develops but “has nothing to do with it”. Meanwhile, Ukrainian presidential advisor Mikhaylo Podolyak suggested that Russian “guerrilla groups” might be responsible for the Monday attack. Russia responds to the incursion The Russian military said it had deployed jets and artillery to destroy the armed group in what Moscow has described as a “counter-terrorist operation”. According to Russia-installed officials, at least 12 civilians were injured after what Moscow called a “sabotage” group incursion from Ukraine and introduced an “anti-terror regime” in the region of Belgorod. Notably, the “anti-terror regime” grants special powers to security services while also imposing a number of restrictions and measures which include more security and communications surveillance in a region. “In the course of the counter-terrorist operation, the nationalist formations were blocked and destroyed by air strikes and artillery fire,” said the Russian defence ministry in a statement. It also said that Russia killed more than 70 Ukrainian fighters and destroyed four armoured vehicles and five pick-up trucks. It added, “The remnants of the nationalists were pushed back to Ukrainian territory, where they continued to be hit by gunfire until they were completely eliminated.” Earlier, local authorities had said the Belgorod region in Russia had come under sustained artillery and mortar fire by a group it claimed had crossed from Ukraine. Following the incident, Belgorod’s governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said that civilians from nine border villages had been evacuated. However, they haven't yet been asked to return. In response to the alleged attack, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, “What happened yesterday is a cause for deep concern and once again confirms that Ukrainian militants continue their activities against our country.” Gladkov also took to Telegram, on Tuesday, to report one death due to the incursion and said "To our great regret, we do have casualties. A peaceful civilian - a resident of the settlement of Kozinka, died at the hands of Ukrainian forces. Our most sincere condolences go to all their relatives and loved ones." Two ‘anti-Kremlin’ groups claim responsibility There are two groups which have claimed responsibility for the incursion – the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC) and the Freedom of Russia Legion, reported Reuters. The RVC is reportedly founded by Moscow-born Denis Kapustin, also known as Denis Nikitin, who has described himself as a nationalist fighting for a Russia that belongs to ethnic Russians, as per the news agency. Meanwhile, the Freedom of Russia Legion is said to be a Ukraine-based Russian militia group which is reportedly led by Russian opposition figure Ilya Ponomarev. The group is working inside Russia to supposedly overthrow Russian President Vladimir Putin. A video released by a Telegram channel, seen by the news agency AFP, claims to represent one of the anti-Kremlin groups which shows a camouflaged spokesman, surrounded by armed men in fatigues. The footage in question was released on Monday, in which the person said “Russia will be free!” a slogan frequently used by the Russian opposition. Ukrainian President visits eastern frontline Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Tuesday, visited the Marines on the eastern front line and also presented awards to the commanders of several units. “Happy Marines Day, especially to such strong people who are in one of the hottest but also one of the strongest… sectors – the Vuhledar-Marinka direction,” said the Ukrainian president, in a video posted on social media. (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.

Air Force, artillery used to push back border attackers, 70 ‘Ukrainian nationalists’ killed, says Russia

On Monday, blast in Belgorod region of Russia, resulted in injuring eight people. The region's Governor initially blamed this attack on a Ukrainian sabotage group.

Anti-Putin Russian group attacks Russia's border region of Belgorod, 8 injured | World DNA

Bakhmut, a Ukrainian city, has become the bloodiest battleground in Europe since World War II. The fighting in the besieged city began in May 2022. Now, a year later, the city is a desolated pile of broken buildings debris and even smoke.

Battle for Bakhmut rages on: Wagner Group claims 'Will give Bakhmut to Russia by May 25'

<p>Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen put forward a proposal on Monday saying that Denmark 'would like to host' a summit aimed at establishing peace between Ukraine and Russia in July. He further stated that for such a meeting, he would&nbsp;require&nbsp;engagement from India, China and Brazil.</p>

<p>During the G7 meeting in Japan on Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sought support for Kyiv's plan to end Russia's war in Ukraine. He also further proposed to hold a global summit in July.</p>

<p>"If Ukraine finds that the time has come to have such a meeting, that would be fantastic. And then Denmark would obviously like to host the meeting," Lokke Rasmussen told reporters on the sidelines of the EU Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels.</p>

<p>A proposal, that was put forward in the month of December by Ukraine to hold a peace summit in February 2023, was never substantiated.</p>

<p>"For starters, we need to put some effort into creating a global commitment to organise such a meeting," Lokke Rasmussen said, adding that a summit should not just be attended by Ukraine's allies.</p>

<p>"It is necessary to build interest and involvement from countries like India, Brazil and China," he said. "It is hard for me to see" Russia taking part, he added. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Denmark to help train Ukrainian pilots on US-made F-16 fighter jets</strong></h2>

<p>Denmark's defence minister on Friday said that the country will help train Ukrainian pilots on the US-made F-16 fighter jet after Washington released a statement saying that it would support the initiative.</p>

<p>"The country will now be able to move forward for a collective contribution to train Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16s", said acting Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Bakhmut not occupied,’ insists Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky despite Russia claiming victory</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky continued to insist on Sunday that the besieged Ukrainian city of Bakhmut has “not been occupied”, despite Russia claiming victory.</p>

<p>"Bakhmut is not occupied by Russia today," Zelensky told a press conference during the G7 summit in Hiroshima, according to AFP news agency.</p>

<p>"They are in Bakhmut," he said, not clarifying if that referred to Russian or Ukrainian troops.</p>

<p>"I cannot share with you the tactical views of our military. The most difficult thing would be if there was some tactical mistake in Bakhmut and our people were surrounded," he said.</p>

<p>On Saturday, the chief of the Russian mercenary Wagner Group claimed that they have taken full control of Bakhmut following months of a protracted and bloody war with the Ukrainian troops.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen put forward a proposal on Monday saying that Denmark 'would like to host' a summit aimed at establishing peace between Ukraine and Russia in July.

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen put forward a proposal on Monday saying that Denmark 'would like to host' a summit aimed at establishing peace between Ukraine and Russia in July. He further stated that for such a meeting, he would require engagement from India, China and Brazil. During the G7 meeting in Japan on Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sought support for Kyiv's plan to end Russia's war in Ukraine. He also further proposed to hold a global summit in July. "If Ukraine finds that the time has come to have such a meeting, that would be fantastic. And then Denmark would obviously like to host the meeting," Lokke Rasmussen told reporters on the sidelines of the EU Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels. A proposal, that was put forward in the month of December by Ukraine to hold a peace summit in February 2023, was never substantiated. "For starters, we need to put some effort into creating a global commitment to organise such a meeting," Lokke Rasmussen said, adding that a summit should not just be attended by Ukraine's allies. "It is necessary to build interest and involvement from countries like India, Brazil and China," he said. "It is hard for me to see" Russia taking part, he added. Denmark to help train Ukrainian pilots on US-made F-16 fighter jets Denmark's defence minister on Friday said that the country will help train Ukrainian pilots on the US-made F-16 fighter jet after Washington released a statement saying that it would support the initiative. "The country will now be able to move forward for a collective contribution to train Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16s", said acting Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen. ‘Bakhmut not occupied,’ insists Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky despite Russia claiming victory Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky continued to insist on Sunday that the besieged Ukrainian city of Bakhmut has “not been occupied”, despite Russia claiming victory. "Bakhmut is not occupied by Russia today," Zelensky told a press conference during the G7 summit in Hiroshima, according to AFP news agency. "They are in Bakhmut," he said, not clarifying if that referred to Russian or Ukrainian troops. "I cannot share with you the tactical views of our military. The most difficult thing would be if there was some tactical mistake in Bakhmut and our people were surrounded," he said. On Saturday, the chief of the Russian mercenary Wagner Group claimed that they have taken full control of Bakhmut following months of a protracted and bloody war with the Ukrainian troops. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Denmark willing to host Ukraine peace summit, seeks engagement from India, China and Brazil

The transfer of F-16s to Ukraine stirs worldwide debate

<p>At least two Ukrainians might be responsible for the Nord Stream and Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline explosion that took place in September last year, according to Germany’s Suddeutsche Zeitung daily.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report claims that Germany’s Federal Criminal Police Office found the company that chartered the Andromeda yacht, allegedly used by the suspects of the Nord Stream blasts to reach the site. It said the Polish company named Feeria Lwowa was a sham company, set up in 2016 and registered by two Ukrainians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The travel agency had reportedly sent a mail regarding the yacht to Germany’s Mola Yachting headquartered on Rugen island.</p>

<p>The company did not have anything extraordinary about it but in 2020, during the peak of the pandemic, it managed to suddenly earn 2.8 million euros. Currently, the company is owned by a middle-aged woman from Kerch, with her Ukrainian passport being recorded in the Polish company’s documents. Moreover, a 55-year-old Ukrainian woman is the company's director and stakeholder since September 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>German&nbsp;intelligences refuses to name anyone</strong></h2>

<p>After the report was released, President of the German Federal Intelligence Service (BND) Bruno Kahl said no intelligence is currently able to name those responsible for the blasts,&nbsp;</p>

<p>"No country, no intelligence agency in the world is currently able to attribute this (the Nord Streams sabotage) to anyone in particular," he said, "Maybe this will change, there are some notable successes in the investigation."&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-nord-stream-mystery-deepens-heres-a-special-report-576122"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;The Nord stream mystery deepens, here's a special report</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>US media's version of the explosions&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>However, the findings by the German newspaper are along the same lines as US media. In March, New York Times carried out a report wherein it was stated that a pro-Ukrainian group was responsible for exploding the Nord Stream natural gas pipelines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"New intelligence reporting amounts to the first significant known lead about who was responsible for the attack on the Nord Stream pipelines that carried natural gas from Russia to Europe," reported the publication.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-launches-international-terrorism-probe-after-nord-stream-leaks-report-520700">ALSO READ |&nbsp;Russia launches 'international terrorism' probe after Nord Stream leaks: Report</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Nord Stream pipelines&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The two explosions on the Nord Stream pipelines last year were followed by unexplained gas leaks. According to a Danish-Swedish investigation, the four breaches impacting the Nord Stream gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea were brought on by underwater explosions equivalent to hundreds of kilogrammes of explosives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Denmark and Sweden have maintained that the attacks could not have been carried out without state-sponsored help - subtly hinting at Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Russian President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;called such allegations a ploy by the West after its sanctions did not affect Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Sanctions are not enough for the West, they have switched to sabotage. Unbelievable, but it is a fact!," Putin stated during a live speech at a Kremlin ceremony last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2&nbsp;pipelines&nbsp;stretch 760 miles from&nbsp;the Russian northwest coast&nbsp;to Lubmin in northeast Germany. The first was completed in 2011 and cost more than $12 billion to build while Nord Stream 2 cost slightly less and was completed in 2021 despite backlash from the US, UK and Ukraine amongst others.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of the claims made by the German newspaper.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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At least two Ukrainians might be responsible for the Nord Stream and Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline explosion that took place in September last year, according to Germany’s Suddeutsche Zeitung daily.

At least two Ukrainians might be responsible for the Nord Stream and Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline explosion that took place in September last year, according to Germany’s Suddeutsche Zeitung daily. The report claims that Germany’s Federal Criminal Police Office found the company that chartered the Andromeda yacht, allegedly used by the suspects of the Nord Stream blasts to reach the site. It said the Polish company named Feeria Lwowa was a sham company, set up in 2016 and registered by two Ukrainians. The travel agency had reportedly sent a mail regarding the yacht to Germany’s Mola Yachting headquartered on Rugen island. The company did not have anything extraordinary about it but in 2020, during the peak of the pandemic, it managed to suddenly earn 2.8 million euros. Currently, the company is owned by a middle-aged woman from Kerch, with her Ukrainian passport being recorded in the Polish company’s documents. Moreover, a 55-year-old Ukrainian woman is the company's director and stakeholder since September 2021. German intelligences refuses to name anyone After the report was released, President of the German Federal Intelligence Service (BND) Bruno Kahl said no intelligence is currently able to name those responsible for the blasts, "No country, no intelligence agency in the world is currently able to attribute this (the Nord Streams sabotage) to anyone in particular," he said, "Maybe this will change, there are some notable successes in the investigation." WATCH | The Nord stream mystery deepens, here's a special report × US media's version of the explosions However, the findings by the German newspaper are along the same lines as US media. In March, New York Times carried out a report wherein it was stated that a pro-Ukrainian group was responsible for exploding the Nord Stream natural gas pipelines. "New intelligence reporting amounts to the first significant known lead about who was responsible for the attack on the Nord Stream pipelines that carried natural gas from Russia to Europe," reported the publication. ALSO READ | Russia launches 'international terrorism' probe after Nord Stream leaks: Report Nord Stream pipelines The two explosions on the Nord Stream pipelines last year were followed by unexplained gas leaks. According to a Danish-Swedish investigation, the four breaches impacting the Nord Stream gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea were brought on by underwater explosions equivalent to hundreds of kilogrammes of explosives. Denmark and Sweden have maintained that the attacks could not have been carried out without state-sponsored help - subtly hinting at Moscow. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin called such allegations a ploy by the West after its sanctions did not affect Moscow. "Sanctions are not enough for the West, they have switched to sabotage. Unbelievable, but it is a fact!," Putin stated during a live speech at a Kremlin ceremony last year. Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 pipelines stretch 760 miles from the Russian northwest coast to Lubmin in northeast Germany. The first was completed in 2011 and cost more than $12 billion to build while Nord Stream 2 cost slightly less and was completed in 2021 despite backlash from the US, UK and Ukraine amongst others. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of the claims made by the German newspaper. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

At least two Ukrainians blew up Nord Stream pipelines: German media

<p>Ukraine's Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that the country's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba stressed on Ukraine's territorial integrity in his meeting with China's special envoy Li Hui.</p>

<p>Dmytro Kuleba "explained the principles of restoring a stable and just peace in detail, based on the respect of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine", said a ministry statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China's spcial envoy Li Hui arrived in Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Tuesday (May 17) for two days of talks with authorities. He has come on a European tour to promote Beijing's plan to settle the Ukraine conflict with Russia.</p>

<p>Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Moscow in March, seeking to position China as a neutral mediator. Xi, however, has not visited Kyiv. China has not yet condemned Russian attack on Ukraine. It has also provided diplomatic cover to Russia on global platforms.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Ukraine: Russian Kinzhal missiles cannot destroy patriot system</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>In the meeting with Li, Kuleba "emphasised that Ukraine does not accept any proposals that would involve the loss of its territories or the freezing of the conflict".</p>

<p>He praised the "importance" of China's mediating role, including in the Black Sea Initiative that allowed for the resumption of grain exports through the Black Sea, and in nuclear safety.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two sides also agreed to "intensify dialogue on key issues."</p>

<h2><strong>Grain deal extended&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Wednesday marked a positive development in a matter connected to Ukraine conflict. Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that Ukraine deal had been extended by two months.</p>

<p>“With the efforts of our country, the support of our Russian friends, the contribution of our Ukrainian friends, it was decided to prolong the Black Sea grain deal for two more months,” said the Turkish president, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine is often called the 'bread basket of the world'. After Russia attacked Ukraine, the grain exports stopped. This raised the specter of global food crisis. United Nations and Turkey then mediated a grain deal between Ukraine and Russia which gave safe passage to Ukrainian grain ships. Tensions between the two countries often put the deal in jeopardy.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-eases-citizenship-process-for-foreigners-fighting-for-russia-in-ukraine-593240">Putin eases citizenship process for foreigners fighting for Russia in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>The latest decision to extend the deal came after officials from Russia, Ukraine and the UN, part of Joint Co-ordination Centre (JCC) gathered in Istanbul last week to discuss extension of the deal.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, Erdogan thanked Russian, Ukrainian leaders as well as UN General-Secretary Antonio Guterres. Russia has agreed not to block ships from leaving from two Ukrainian harbours.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukraine's Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that the country's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba stressed on Ukraine's territorial integrity in his meeting with China's special envoy Li Hui.

Ukraine's Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that the country's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba stressed on Ukraine's territorial integrity in his meeting with China's special envoy Li Hui. Dmytro Kuleba "explained the principles of restoring a stable and just peace in detail, based on the respect of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine", said a ministry statement. China's spcial envoy Li Hui arrived in Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Tuesday (May 17) for two days of talks with authorities. He has come on a European tour to promote Beijing's plan to settle the Ukraine conflict with Russia. Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Moscow in March, seeking to position China as a neutral mediator. Xi, however, has not visited Kyiv. China has not yet condemned Russian attack on Ukraine. It has also provided diplomatic cover to Russia on global platforms. Watch | Ukraine: Russian Kinzhal missiles cannot destroy patriot system × In the meeting with Li, Kuleba "emphasised that Ukraine does not accept any proposals that would involve the loss of its territories or the freezing of the conflict". He praised the "importance" of China's mediating role, including in the Black Sea Initiative that allowed for the resumption of grain exports through the Black Sea, and in nuclear safety. The two sides also agreed to "intensify dialogue on key issues." Grain deal extended Wednesday marked a positive development in a matter connected to Ukraine conflict. Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that Ukraine deal had been extended by two months. “With the efforts of our country, the support of our Russian friends, the contribution of our Ukrainian friends, it was decided to prolong the Black Sea grain deal for two more months,” said the Turkish president, as quoted by news agency AFP. Ukraine is often called the 'bread basket of the world'. After Russia attacked Ukraine, the grain exports stopped. This raised the specter of global food crisis. United Nations and Turkey then mediated a grain deal between Ukraine and Russia which gave safe passage to Ukrainian grain ships. Tensions between the two countries often put the deal in jeopardy. Also Read | Putin eases citizenship process for foreigners fighting for Russia in Ukraine The latest decision to extend the deal came after officials from Russia, Ukraine and the UN, part of Joint Co-ordination Centre (JCC) gathered in Istanbul last week to discuss extension of the deal. On Wednesday, Erdogan thanked Russian, Ukrainian leaders as well as UN General-Secretary Antonio Guterres. Russia has agreed not to block ships from leaving from two Ukrainian harbours. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine insists on territorial integrity during talks with China envoy

<p>Moldovan President Maia Sandu told AFP in an interview that the country was seeking membership of the European Union (EU) "as soon as possible" in order to gain protection from Russian threat. President Sandu said that she hoped for a decision to start negotiations "in the next months".</p>

<p>Moldova is a small nation of 2.6 million people. It is situated between EU neighbour Romania and war-torn Ukraine. It will on June 1 hold its first major summit of wider Europe.</p>

<p>President Sandu feels EU membership is the only guarantee against becoming Russia's next target.</p>

<p>Moldova is a former Soviet republic. It already has a breakaway region, Transnistria. Russia has stationed a small number of troops there.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | EU to discuss 11th package of sanctions against Russia at G7 summit</strong></p>

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<p>"Of course, nothing compares to what is happening in Ukraine, but we see the risks and we do believe that we can save our democracy only as part of the EU," Sandu said.</p>

<p>"We do believe that Russia will continue to be a big source of instability for the years to come and we need to protect ourselves," added Sandu, on the sidelines of a Council of Europe of summit in Iceland that wrapped up on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Sandu, 50, is in office since 2020. In February, she accused Russia of encouraging a coup to seize power in Moldova.</p>

<p>She has called for Moldovans -- who polls show are overwhelmingly behind joining the European Union -- to hold a pro-EU rally on Sunday.</p>

<p>"The Ukraine war made things black and white. So it's very clear what the free world means, and what the authoritarian world means, for all of us," she said.</p>

<p>"We do believe that this is a realistic project for us and we are looking forward to see this happening as soon as possible," Sandu said.</p>

<p>Becoming a member of EU could take a decade or more. There is a long list of requirements which have to be met in order to join the countries in the European single market.</p>

<h2><strong>Challenges before Moldova</strong></h2>

<p>Unlike Ukraine, Moldova is small enough to be able to be integrated into the European Union relatively easily.</p>

<p>However, there are a few challenges in bringing Moldova's democratic standards up to EU levels, especially in terms of fighting corruption.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/european-union-approves-worlds-first-regulation-for-crypto-assets-593021">European Union approves world’s first regulation for crypto assets, rollout in 2024</a></strong></p>

<p>The economy is fragile. There are questions of energy security and the issue of Transnistria, with its 30,000 pro-Russian population.</p>

<p>"We are struggling to have peaceful resolution of the conflict, and we've been calling on Russia to withdraw its illegally stationed troops," Sandu said.</p>

<p>"We need a geopolitical opportunity to be able to solve the conflict."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Moldovan President Maia Sandu told AFP in an interview that the country was seeking membership of the European Union (EU) "as soon as possible" in order to gain protection from Russian threat.

Moldovan President Maia Sandu told AFP in an interview that the country was seeking membership of the European Union (EU) "as soon as possible" in order to gain protection from Russian threat. President Sandu said that she hoped for a decision to start negotiations "in the next months". Moldova is a small nation of 2.6 million people. It is situated between EU neighbour Romania and war-torn Ukraine. It will on June 1 hold its first major summit of wider Europe. President Sandu feels EU membership is the only guarantee against becoming Russia's next target. Moldova is a former Soviet republic. It already has a breakaway region, Transnistria. Russia has stationed a small number of troops there. Watch | EU to discuss 11th package of sanctions against Russia at G7 summit × "Of course, nothing compares to what is happening in Ukraine, but we see the risks and we do believe that we can save our democracy only as part of the EU," Sandu said. "We do believe that Russia will continue to be a big source of instability for the years to come and we need to protect ourselves," added Sandu, on the sidelines of a Council of Europe of summit in Iceland that wrapped up on Tuesday. Sandu, 50, is in office since 2020. In February, she accused Russia of encouraging a coup to seize power in Moldova. She has called for Moldovans -- who polls show are overwhelmingly behind joining the European Union -- to hold a pro-EU rally on Sunday. "The Ukraine war made things black and white. So it's very clear what the free world means, and what the authoritarian world means, for all of us," she said. "We do believe that this is a realistic project for us and we are looking forward to see this happening as soon as possible," Sandu said. Becoming a member of EU could take a decade or more. There is a long list of requirements which have to be met in order to join the countries in the European single market. Challenges before Moldova Unlike Ukraine, Moldova is small enough to be able to be integrated into the European Union relatively easily. However, there are a few challenges in bringing Moldova's democratic standards up to EU levels, especially in terms of fighting corruption. Also Read | European Union approves world’s first regulation for crypto assets, rollout in 2024 The economy is fragile. There are questions of energy security and the issue of Transnistria, with its 30,000 pro-Russian population. "We are struggling to have peaceful resolution of the conflict, and we've been calling on Russia to withdraw its illegally stationed troops," Sandu said. "We need a geopolitical opportunity to be able to solve the conflict." (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 eye on Russia, Moldova wants to join EU 'as soon as possible'

An attack took place in Russian Belgorod Oblast region after midnight on Monday, leaving eight people injured. The region's Governor initially blamed the attack on a Ukrainian sabotage group. However a Ukrainian media report citing military intelligence said that two Russian opposition groups had carried out the attack with Zelensky further assuring that Kyiv had nothing to do with the attack.

Attacks in Russian border region of Belgorod, 8 injured

In a big boost for Kyiv, the US says it will permit its Western partners to provide Ukraine with cutting-edge fighter jets, including American-made F-16s. President Joe Biden "informed his G7 counterparts" of the decision at the group's summit on Friday in Japan, according to national security adviser Jake Sullivan.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine focuses on upping its air defence systems

US has allowed its Western allies to supply F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. Does Ukraine really need these jets? Does it have the expertise to operate them? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Russia fumes as US approves F-16 sale to Ukraine

<p>A woman dressed in the colours of the Ukrainian flag staged an intense demonstration on the red carpet of the 76th Cannes Film Festival, on Sunday, by pouring fake blood on herself before being ejected by security.</p>

<p>The brief protest took place during the screening of Just Philippot's film <em>Acid.</em></p>

<p>In an aim to show solidarity for the war-torn country, the unidentified protester, who appeared on the red carpet alongside A-listers in a floor-length blue and yellow ballgown, drenched herself in red substance on the steps of the Palais des Festivals.</p>

<p>In the video, she can be seen swiftly climbing the stairs, after which she reaches into her dress, pulls out the fake blood capsules, bursts them raising above her head and smiles in front of the cameras.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO: Cannes action.<br />
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A woman dressed in Ukrainian colours pours fake blood on herself on the steps of the Palais des Festivals during the screening of the film 'Acid', before being removed by security staff <a href="https://t.co/v7hAz1zetW">pic.twitter.com/v7hAz1zetW</a></p>
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AFP/status/1660454871953477632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Woman protester goes topless on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival 2022, paints herself in Ukrainian colours</strong></h2>

<p>In the year 2022, a woman ripped off her dress revealing her body painted in the Ukrainian flag colours with the words 'STOP RAPING US' inscribed on her body at the Cannes Film Festival red carpet in a solo demonstration.</p>

<p>Wearing underpants stained in red colour, with handprints on her buttocks, she shouted and posed for photographers before being removed by security.</p>

<p>The brief protest occurred at the world premiere of <em>Three Thousand Years of Longing,</em>&nbsp;with stars Idris Elba and Tilda Swinton poised to arrive and walk the famous steps of the Palais des Festivals.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On the Cannes red carpet for George Miller’s new movie, the woman in front of me stripped off all her clothes (covered in body paint) and fell to her knees screaming in front of photographers. Cannes authorities rushed over, covered her in a coat, &amp; blocked my camera from filming <a href="https://t.co/JFdWlwVMEw">pic.twitter.com/JFdWlwVMEw</a></p>
— Kyle Buchanan (@kylebuchanan) <a href="https://twitter.com/kylebuchanan/status/1527691363646590977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky addresses Cannes Film Festival</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky made a surprise video address at the opening ceremony of the Cannes Film Festival last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Hundreds of people are dying every day. They won’t get up again after the clapping at the end,” he told the audience, which had reacted with surprise when the pre-recorded message was introduced.</p>

<p>“Will cinema keep quiet, or will it speak up? If there is a dictator, if there is a war for freedom, once again, everything depends on our unity. Can cinema stay outside of this unity?” Zelensky added.</p>

<p>“Chaplin’s dictator did not destroy the real dictator, but thanks to cinema, thanks to this film, cinema did not stay quiet,” Zelensky said.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Bakhmut not occupied,’ insists Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky despite Russia claiming victory</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky continued to insist on Sunday that the besieged Ukrainian city of Bakhmut has “not been occupied”, despite Russia claiming victory.</p>

<p>"Bakhmut is not occupied by Russia today," Zelensky told a press conference during the G7 summit in Hiroshima, according to AFP news agency.</p>

<p>"They are in Bakhmut," he said, not clarifying if that referred to Russian or Ukrainian troops.</p>

<p>"I cannot share with you the tactical views of our military. The most difficult thing would be if there was some tactical mistake in Bakhmut and our people were surrounded," he said.</p>

<p>On Saturday, the chief of the Russian mercenary Wagner Group claimed that they have taken full control of Bakhmut following months of a protracted and bloody war with the Ukrainian troops.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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A woman dressed in the colours of the Ukrainian flag staged an intense demonstration on the red carpet of the 76th Cannes Film Festival, on Sunday, by pouring fake blood on herself before being ejected by security.

A woman dressed in the colours of the Ukrainian flag staged an intense demonstration on the red carpet of the 76th Cannes Film Festival, on Sunday, by pouring fake blood on herself before being ejected by security. The brief protest took place during the screening of Just Philippot's film Acid. In an aim to show solidarity for the war-torn country, the unidentified protester, who appeared on the red carpet alongside A-listers in a floor-length blue and yellow ballgown, drenched herself in red substance on the steps of the Palais des Festivals. In the video, she can be seen swiftly climbing the stairs, after which she reaches into her dress, pulls out the fake blood capsules, bursts them raising above her head and smiles in front of the cameras. WATCH VIDEO: Cannes action. A woman dressed in Ukrainian colours pours fake blood on herself on the steps of the Palais des Festivals during the screening of the film 'Acid', before being removed by security staff pic.twitter.com/v7hAz1zetW — AFP News Agency (@AFP) May 22, 2023 × Woman protester goes topless on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival 2022, paints herself in Ukrainian colours In the year 2022, a woman ripped off her dress revealing her body painted in the Ukrainian flag colours with the words 'STOP RAPING US' inscribed on her body at the Cannes Film Festival red carpet in a solo demonstration. Wearing underpants stained in red colour, with handprints on her buttocks, she shouted and posed for photographers before being removed by security. The brief protest occurred at the world premiere of Three Thousand Years of Longing, with stars Idris Elba and Tilda Swinton poised to arrive and walk the famous steps of the Palais des Festivals. On the Cannes red carpet for George Miller’s new movie, the woman in front of me stripped off all her clothes (covered in body paint) and fell to her knees screaming in front of photographers. Cannes authorities rushed over, covered her in a coat, & blocked my camera from filming pic.twitter.com/JFdWlwVMEw — Kyle Buchanan (@kylebuchanan) May 20, 2022 × Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky addresses Cannes Film Festival Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky made a surprise video address at the opening ceremony of the Cannes Film Festival last year. “Hundreds of people are dying every day. They won’t get up again after the clapping at the end,” he told the audience, which had reacted with surprise when the pre-recorded message was introduced. “Will cinema keep quiet, or will it speak up? If there is a dictator, if there is a war for freedom, once again, everything depends on our unity. Can cinema stay outside of this unity?” Zelensky added. “Chaplin’s dictator did not destroy the real dictator, but thanks to cinema, thanks to this film, cinema did not stay quiet,” Zelensky said. ‘Bakhmut not occupied,’ insists Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky despite Russia claiming victory Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky continued to insist on Sunday that the besieged Ukrainian city of Bakhmut has “not been occupied”, despite Russia claiming victory. "Bakhmut is not occupied by Russia today," Zelensky told a press conference during the G7 summit in Hiroshima, according to AFP news agency. "They are in Bakhmut," he said, not clarifying if that referred to Russian or Ukrainian troops. "I cannot share with you the tactical views of our military. The most difficult thing would be if there was some tactical mistake in Bakhmut and our people were surrounded," he said. On Saturday, the chief of the Russian mercenary Wagner Group claimed that they have taken full control of Bakhmut following months of a protracted and bloody war with the Ukrainian troops. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WATCH | Woman dressed in Ukrainian colours stages protest on Cannes red carpet, pours fake blood on herself

After 15 months of the ongoing war in Ukraine, Bakhmut the embattled Eastern Ukrainian city has fallen. The claim was made by Yevgeny Prigozhin, who is the head of Russia's private militia the wagner group. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has also confirmed to this news on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Hiroshima.

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin congratulates Russian Army and Wagner on 'Bakhmut success'

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<p>Days after US President Joe Biden endorsed training programmes for Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets, Russia said the transfer would raise questions over NATO's involvement in the conflict. Russia's Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov questioned the military alliance on what would happen if American soldiers took off from NATO&nbsp;airfields.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There is no infrastructure for the operation of the F-16 in Ukraine and the needed number of pilots and maintenance personnel is not there either,” said Antonov in remarks published on the embassy's Telegram channel.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What will happen if the American fighters take off from NATO airfields, controlled by foreign 'volunteers'?" he questioned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is not the first instance when Moscow has raised questions over the involvement of the multi-role fighter aircraft. On Sunday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko responding to questions warned the West that providing Kyiv with F-16 fighter jets would carry ‘colossal risks’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We see that Western countries are still adhering to the escalation scenario. It involves colossal risks for themselves," said Grushko.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In any case, this will be taken into account in all our plans, and we have all the necessary means to achieve the goals we have set.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-west-supplying-f-16-jets-to-ukraine-would-carry-colossal-risks-594646" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Russia says West's supply of F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry ‘colossal risks’</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Kyiv wants the F-16 desperately</strong></h2>

<p>Zelensky has been pushing the Western allies to supply the F-16 jets for months now. The Ukrainian leader discussed the proposition yet again during his appearance at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan.</p>

<p>After much back-and-forth, the White House on Sunday approved a new $375 million military aid for Ukraine. The pledge came after Biden agreed to allow training on F-16 fighter jets, laying the groundwork for their eventual transfer to Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-focuses-on-upping-its-air-defence-systems-594853"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine focuses on upping its air defence systems</strong></a></p>

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<p>However, Biden said Zelensky had given 'flat assurances' to him that the F-16 fighter jets will not be used to attack Russian territory.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have a flat assurance from Zelensky that they will not use it to go on and move onto Russian geographic territory, but wherever Russian troops are within Ukraine and the area, they would be able to do that," Biden told reporters on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv is in desperate need of more arms and advanced jets, especially after Moscow's Wagner private military unit claimed it had finally managed to take full control of the ruined eastern city of Bakhmut after months of vicious fighting.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Days after US President Joe Biden endorsed training programmes for Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets, Russia said the transfer would raise questions over NATO's involvement in the conflict.

Days after US President Joe Biden endorsed training programmes for Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets, Russia said the transfer would raise questions over NATO's involvement in the conflict. Russia's Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov questioned the military alliance on what would happen if American soldiers took off from NATO airfields. “There is no infrastructure for the operation of the F-16 in Ukraine and the needed number of pilots and maintenance personnel is not there either,” said Antonov in remarks published on the embassy's Telegram channel. "What will happen if the American fighters take off from NATO airfields, controlled by foreign 'volunteers'?" he questioned. This is not the first instance when Moscow has raised questions over the involvement of the multi-role fighter aircraft. On Sunday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko responding to questions warned the West that providing Kyiv with F-16 fighter jets would carry ‘colossal risks’. “We see that Western countries are still adhering to the escalation scenario. It involves colossal risks for themselves," said Grushko. “In any case, this will be taken into account in all our plans, and we have all the necessary means to achieve the goals we have set.” ALSO READ | Russia says West's supply of F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry ‘colossal risks’ Kyiv wants the F-16 desperately Zelensky has been pushing the Western allies to supply the F-16 jets for months now. The Ukrainian leader discussed the proposition yet again during his appearance at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan. After much back-and-forth, the White House on Sunday approved a new $375 million military aid for Ukraine. The pledge came after Biden agreed to allow training on F-16 fighter jets, laying the groundwork for their eventual transfer to Kyiv. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine focuses on upping its air defence systems × However, Biden said Zelensky had given 'flat assurances' to him that the F-16 fighter jets will not be used to attack Russian territory. "I have a flat assurance from Zelensky that they will not use it to go on and move onto Russian geographic territory, but wherever Russian troops are within Ukraine and the area, they would be able to do that," Biden told reporters on Sunday. Kyiv is in desperate need of more arms and advanced jets, especially after Moscow's Wagner private military unit claimed it had finally managed to take full control of the ruined eastern city of Bakhmut after months of vicious fighting. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia questions NATO involvement over F-16 transfer to Ukraine

After 15 months of the ongoing war in Ukraine, Bakhmut the embattled Eastern Ukrainian city has fallen. The claim was made by Yevgeny Prigozhin, who is the head of Russia's private militia the wagner group. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky also confirmed to this news on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Hiroshima.

Russia-Ukraine War | Prigozhin: There is not a single Ukrainian soldier in Bakhmut

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