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: US President Joe Biden vows unwavering support to Ukraine

<p>Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said on Monday that he was scheduled to meet Ukraine President in Japan on the sidelines of the Group of Seven summit, however the meeting was cancelled because Volodymyr Zelenskyy&nbsp;was late, as per reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the meeting that fell through, Lula said, "I had an interview, a bilateral one with Ukraine here in this room at 3:15 p.m. We waited and received the information that he was late."<br />
<br />
The Ukrainian president "did not show up ... clearly he had appointments and he couldn't come," Lula said adding, “I wasn’t disappointed. I was upset, because I’d like to meet him and discuss the matter” but “Zelensky is a grown-up. He knows what he’s doing."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gross-interference-china-summons-japanese-envoy-over-g7-communique-594902">'Gross interference': China summons Japanese envoy over G7 communique</a></p>

<p>As per AFP, the Brazilian president was upset with the situation and also said that his Ukrainian counterpart was uninterested in negotiating peace with Russia. Lula said the same thing about Russian President Vladimir Putin, that he appeared to not want peace as well.</p>

<p>The Group of Seven leaders met in Japan where they also held bilateral meetings with Zelensky and laid emphasis on their support for Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky's reaction&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in his reaction to the meeting with Brazil's Lula that didn't happen, said it is possible that the bilateral meeting did not happen due to&nbsp;scheduling issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I met almost everyone, all the leaders. All of them have their own schedules, that is why we couldn’t meet with the Brazilian president,” the Ukrainian president told reporters on Sunday.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fire-at-indias-delhi-cinema-67-people-inside-hall-safely-evacuated-594909">Fire at India's Delhi cinema, 67 people inside hall safely evacuated</a></p>

<p>In response to a media query seeking answers if the Ukrainian president is disappointed that the meeting did not happen, Zelensky in a news presser gave a roundabout answer. Instead of speaking on his own take on the meeting, Zelensky smirked, saying, "I think it disappointed him."</p>

<p>It drew a laughter from the reporters who were present at the news conference.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Non-G7 countries lend support to Zelensky</strong></h2>

<p>At the G7 summit, Zelensky received overwhelming support from the G7 leaders, including the US's long-sought support for access to F-16 fighter fighters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: US President Joe Biden vows unwavering support to Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>Additionally, he courted the non-G7 nations who were invited to the meeting, most notably getting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to promise that his country will do "whatever we can" to stop the war. "I understand your pain," Modi told Zelensky.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Brazil didn't make any such show of support. Lula has advocated for the holding of peace negotiations and suggested that Brazil serve as a mediator with other "neutral" nations like China. However, Lula came under fire last month when he claimed that the US was "encouraging" the conflict.</p>

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Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said on Monday that he was scheduled to meet Ukraine President in Japan on the sidelines of the Group of Seven summit, however the meeting was cancelled because Volodymyr Zelenskyy was late, as per reports.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said on Monday that he was scheduled to meet Ukraine President in Japan on the sidelines of the Group of Seven summit, however the meeting was cancelled because Volodymyr Zelenskyy was late, as per reports. At the meeting that fell through, Lula said, "I had an interview, a bilateral one with Ukraine here in this room at 3:15 p.m. We waited and received the information that he was late." The Ukrainian president "did not show up ... clearly he had appointments and he couldn't come," Lula said adding, “I wasn’t disappointed. I was upset, because I’d like to meet him and discuss the matter” but “Zelensky is a grown-up. He knows what he’s doing." Also Read | 'Gross interference': China summons Japanese envoy over G7 communique As per AFP, the Brazilian president was upset with the situation and also said that his Ukrainian counterpart was uninterested in negotiating peace with Russia. Lula said the same thing about Russian President Vladimir Putin, that he appeared to not want peace as well. The Group of Seven leaders met in Japan where they also held bilateral meetings with Zelensky and laid emphasis on their support for Ukraine. Zelensky's reaction Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in his reaction to the meeting with Brazil's Lula that didn't happen, said it is possible that the bilateral meeting did not happen due to scheduling issues. “I met almost everyone, all the leaders. All of them have their own schedules, that is why we couldn’t meet with the Brazilian president,” the Ukrainian president told reporters on Sunday. Also Read | Fire at India's Delhi cinema, 67 people inside hall safely evacuated In response to a media query seeking answers if the Ukrainian president is disappointed that the meeting did not happen, Zelensky in a news presser gave a roundabout answer. Instead of speaking on his own take on the meeting, Zelensky smirked, saying, "I think it disappointed him." It drew a laughter from the reporters who were present at the news conference. Non-G7 countries lend support to Zelensky At the G7 summit, Zelensky received overwhelming support from the G7 leaders, including the US's long-sought support for access to F-16 fighter fighters. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: US President Joe Biden vows unwavering support to Ukraine × Additionally, he courted the non-G7 nations who were invited to the meeting, most notably getting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to promise that his country will do "whatever we can" to stop the war. "I understand your pain," Modi told Zelensky. Brazil didn't make any such show of support. Lula has advocated for the holding of peace negotiations and suggested that Brazil serve as a mediator with other "neutral" nations like China. However, Lula came under fire last month when he claimed that the US was "encouraging" the conflict. 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. ×

Zelensky was late: Brazil's Lula on cancelled meet with Ukrainian counterpart

Russia has launches a fresh round of strikes on Ukraine. This time, the area under attack is Dnipropetrovsk region. The assault has caused extensive damage and led to injuries as well.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine's Eastern outpost witnesses fresh assault by Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the Group of Seven (G7) summit in Japan Saturday, the first in-person meeting between the two since Russia’s invasion began.

Ukraine’s Zelensky and India’s Modi hold first face-to-face since Russian invasion

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Saturday that decisions taken by the Group of Seven countries at their summit in Japan were aimed at the "double containment" of Russia and China.

Russia's Lavrov says G7 is bent on "double containment" of Russia and China

Russia on Saturday claimed to fully capture the key eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, which would mark an end to the longest and bloodiest battle of the 15-month war.

Russia says key Ukrainian city Bakhmut captured, Kyiv rejects claim

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukrainian President denies Bakhmut is captured

<p>Devastated villages, separated families and hardened soldiers -- stories of Russia's invasion of Ukraine are being taken to the stage in a play performed by actors who have fled their homeland.</p>

<p><em>Special Operation</em>, named after Russian President Vladimir Putin's so-called "special military operation" in Ukraine, opened in Denmark's second-largest city Aarhus on Saturday evening.</p>

<p>The hour-long performance was written by Ukrainian Anatoli Zinovenko, a well-known actor back in his homeland. He and his wife Tetyana -- who also stars in the play -- were forced to flee Ukraine ten days into Russia's invasion, after seeing "rockets and helicopters swirling" above their Kyiv home.</p>

<p>"It was impossible to understand, no one believed that there would be a war, but it happened," said 62-year-old Zinovenko, who has starred in several Ukrainian films, series and performances.</p>

<p>The actor had not written a play before, but when he and his family found safety in Denmark, he said that "everything that was in my heart, it all came out on paper".</p>

<p>"Everything I heard, saw and understood. I wanted to put it all on paper," he said.</p>

<p>The play tells the story of two Ukrainian women who become the sole survivors of a Russian attack on their village. A Russian soldier, injured and abandoned by his platoon, breaks into their home, forcing the women to decide whether to offer him help or exact revenge.</p>

<p>Zinovenko, who plays the Russian soldier, calls it a tale of "heroism, humanity and spirituality". "The women, who have switched places with this occupier, have the opportunity to kill him, but they do not kill him. Why? Because they are not capable of it," he said.</p>

<h2>'Cultural bridge'</h2>

<p>Organisers described the play as building a "cultural bridge" between Ukraine and Denmark, which has welcomed some 30,000 Ukrainian refugees since the war began in February 2022.</p>

<p>The Aarhus show marks the sixteenth performance of "Special Operation" in Denmark.&nbsp;Profits will be donated to humanitarian organisations working in Ukraine.</p>

<p>"We in Denmark only know about this war from the media, from high electricity prices or high food prices," said the head of the Katapult Theatre, Torben Dahl.&nbsp;"What we can do is make people in Denmark aware of this situation on a more human level."&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the UN cultural agency UNESCO, over 250 cultural sites have been damaged in the war including the Mariupol Theatre, destroyed by an airstrike while sheltering civilians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A lot of people of art are now at the front. Many of my acquaintances are fighting," said Zinovenko, whose younger brother is also on the front lines.&nbsp; "I hope that we will perform the play not only in Denmark, of course in Ukraine as well."</p>


Devastated villages, separated families and hardened soldiers -- stories of Russia's invasion of Ukraine are being taken to the stage in a play performed by actors who have fled their homeland.

Devastated villages, separated families and hardened soldiers -- stories of Russia's invasion of Ukraine are being taken to the stage in a play performed by actors who have fled their homeland. Special Operation, named after Russian President Vladimir Putin's so-called "special military operation" in Ukraine, opened in Denmark's second-largest city Aarhus on Saturday evening. The hour-long performance was written by Ukrainian Anatoli Zinovenko, a well-known actor back in his homeland. He and his wife Tetyana -- who also stars in the play -- were forced to flee Ukraine ten days into Russia's invasion, after seeing "rockets and helicopters swirling" above their Kyiv home. "It was impossible to understand, no one believed that there would be a war, but it happened," said 62-year-old Zinovenko, who has starred in several Ukrainian films, series and performances. The actor had not written a play before, but when he and his family found safety in Denmark, he said that "everything that was in my heart, it all came out on paper". "Everything I heard, saw and understood. I wanted to put it all on paper," he said. The play tells the story of two Ukrainian women who become the sole survivors of a Russian attack on their village. A Russian soldier, injured and abandoned by his platoon, breaks into their home, forcing the women to decide whether to offer him help or exact revenge. Zinovenko, who plays the Russian soldier, calls it a tale of "heroism, humanity and spirituality". "The women, who have switched places with this occupier, have the opportunity to kill him, but they do not kill him. Why? Because they are not capable of it," he said. 'Cultural bridge' Organisers described the play as building a "cultural bridge" between Ukraine and Denmark, which has welcomed some 30,000 Ukrainian refugees since the war began in February 2022. The Aarhus show marks the sixteenth performance of "Special Operation" in Denmark. Profits will be donated to humanitarian organisations working in Ukraine. "We in Denmark only know about this war from the media, from high electricity prices or high food prices," said the head of the Katapult Theatre, Torben Dahl. "What we can do is make people in Denmark aware of this situation on a more human level." According to the UN cultural agency UNESCO, over 250 cultural sites have been damaged in the war including the Mariupol Theatre, destroyed by an airstrike while sheltering civilians. "A lot of people of art are now at the front. Many of my acquaintances are fighting," said Zinovenko, whose younger brother is also on the front lines. "I hope that we will perform the play not only in Denmark, of course in Ukraine as well."

Ukrainian actors tell tales of war on stage

Zelensky admits to loss in Bakhmut during G7 sidelines

<p>At a time when Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is in Japan to drum up support for his cause at the G7 summit, Russia has warned the West that providing Kyiv with F-16 fighter jets would be a ‘colossal risk’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko was responding to questions about the implications of Ukraine receiving the advanced, multi-role fighter aircraft.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We see that Western countries are still adhering to the escalation scenario. It involves colossal risks for themselves," said&nbsp;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>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian prez pushes for fighter jets</strong></h2>

<p>Zelensky has been pushing the Western allies to supply the F-16 jets for months now. The Ukrainian leader&nbsp;discussed the proposition yet again with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on the sidelines of the G7 summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Following their discussion at Chequers earlier this week, the prime minister reiterated that the UK would continue to provide Ukraine with the military assistance needed to win the war and secure a just peace. The prime minister updated President Zelensky on the very positive progress at the G7 so far, including new sanctions against Russia and the provision of fighter jets," read a statement released by 10, Downing Street.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky received the booster shot of confidence for his pursuit after US President Joe Biden on Friday said the White House would be willing to back a joint international effort to train&nbsp;Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16 and other modern fighter jets.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-china-come-down-heavy-on-g7-after-grouping-targets-them-594616"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Russia, China come down heavy on G7 after grouping targets them</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Kyiv wants the F-16 desperately</strong></h2>

<p>Kyiv is in desperate need of more arms and advanced jets, especially after Moscow's Wagner private military unit&nbsp;claimed it had finally managed to take full control of the ruined&nbsp;eastern city of Bahamut after months of vicious fighting, though Kyiv has issued a denial.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraines-zelenskiy-at-centre-of-last-day-of-g7-summit-594607"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine's Zelenskiy at centre of last day of G7 summit</strong></a></p>

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<p>Colonel Yuri Ignat, Ukrainian Air Force spokesman asserted the significance of the F-16 saying ground troops will benefit from its use.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-6">"We need F-16s to become an integral part of our air defence. These fighters can engage aerial targets from both high and low altitudes," said Ignat,&nbsp;adding that the jets can carry advanced weapons.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-7">"By utilising F-16s, our ground troops will be able to swiftly liberate occupied Ukrainian territories by targeting enemy command posts, military groups and logistics supply chains."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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At a time when Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is in Japan to drum up support for his cause at the G7 summit, Russia has warned the West that providing Kyiv with F-16 fighter jets would be a ‘colossal risk’.

At a time when Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is in Japan to drum up support for his cause at the G7 summit, Russia has warned the West that providing Kyiv with F-16 fighter jets would be a ‘colossal risk’. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko was responding to questions about the implications of Ukraine receiving the advanced, multi-role fighter aircraft. “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.” Ukrainian prez pushes for fighter jets Zelensky has been pushing the Western allies to supply the F-16 jets for months now. The Ukrainian leader discussed the proposition yet again with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on the sidelines of the G7 summit. “Following their discussion at Chequers earlier this week, the prime minister reiterated that the UK would continue to provide Ukraine with the military assistance needed to win the war and secure a just peace. The prime minister updated President Zelensky on the very positive progress at the G7 so far, including new sanctions against Russia and the provision of fighter jets," read a statement released by 10, Downing Street. Zelensky received the booster shot of confidence for his pursuit after US President Joe Biden on Friday said the White House would be willing to back a joint international effort to train Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16 and other modern fighter jets. ALSO READ | Russia, China come down heavy on G7 after grouping targets them Kyiv wants the F-16 desperately 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 Bahamut after months of vicious fighting, though Kyiv has issued a denial. WATCH | Ukraine's Zelenskiy at centre of last day of G7 summit × Colonel Yuri Ignat, Ukrainian Air Force spokesman asserted the significance of the F-16 saying ground troops will benefit from its use. "We need F-16s to become an integral part of our air defence. These fighters can engage aerial targets from both high and low altitudes," said Ignat, adding that the jets can carry advanced weapons. "By utilising F-16s, our ground troops will be able to swiftly liberate occupied Ukrainian territories by targeting enemy command posts, military groups and logistics supply chains." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia says West's supply of F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry ‘colossal risks’

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky says that Bakhmut is completely destroyed - but has denied that Russia has won the bloody battle for the city.

Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky drops hint on Bakhmut loss

Bakhmut: Zelensky says city is destroyed as Russia claims victory

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s press secretary&nbsp;Sergii Nykyforov has clarified the&nbsp;recent statement made by the leader on the fall of Bakhmut.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Reporter’s question: Russians said they have taken Bakhmut. President’s reply: I think no,”&nbsp;Sergii Nykyforov wrote on Facebook, as he claimed that the leader was responding to a different part of the reporter’s question.</p>

<p>In Ukrainian language, he added, "In this way, the president denied the capture of Bakhmut."</p>

<p>Zelensky earlier on&nbsp;Sunday appeared to have confirmed the news of the warring nation having lost the city of Bakhmut when he was asked if the region is still in Ukraine's hands since Russia claims it has taken it over.<br />
<br />
“I think no,” said Zelensky, while answering about the current status of Bakhmut&nbsp;as he sat&nbsp;alongside US President Joe Biden during a meeting which was being held on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“You have to understand that there is nothing left in this place. They destroyed everything.. just ruins and a lot of dead Russians, but they came to us," he said,</p>

<p>Zelensky stated that&nbsp;Ukraine’s&nbsp;soldiers did "strong work" and "we appreciate their great job".</p>

<p>"For today, Bakhmut is only in our hearts. There is nothing in this place. It is a tragedy,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-west-supplying-f-16-jets-to-ukraine-would-carry-colossal-risks-594646">Russia says West supplying F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry 'colossal risks'</a></p>

<p><br />
On Saturday, Russia had claimed that it&nbsp;has fully captured the war-torn eastern Ukrainian city. The fall of the city will mark the end of the bloodiest and longest battle in the already 15-month-old war.<br />
<br />
The Wagner Group of mercenaries led the assault on the largely levelled Ukrainian city. Earlier, Wagner Group's leader Yevgeny Prigozhin said that the Ukrainians have been finally pushed out of the last built-up area inside the city.<br />
<br />
The Russian ministry issued a statement on Telegram almost eight hours after Prigozhin's claims. However, Kyiv denied the claim made by Prigozhin and stated that the fight for Bakhmut is still going on.<br />
<br />
Referring to the city through its Soviet-era name, the Russian ministry stated, “In the Artyomovsk tactical direction, the assault teams of the Wagner private military company with the support of artillery and aviation of the southern battlegroup have completed the liberation of the city of Artyomovsk.”<br />
<br />
The state news agencies of Russia had cited Kremlin’s press service as stating President Vladimir Putin “congratulates the Wagner assault detachments, as well as all servicemen of the Russian Armed Forces units, who provided them with the necessary support and flank protection, on the completion of the operation to liberate Artyomovsk.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Wagner Group: Russia did not supply with adequate ammunition | Russia-Ukraine War</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Biden unveils new&nbsp;arms, ammunition package for Kyiv</strong></h2>

<p>United States President Joe Biden on Sunday unveiled a new weapons package for Kyiv as he held talks with Zelensky in Hiroshima, which is likely to become part of a large-scale counteroffensive which will be soon launched to push Russians back from the occupied territories.<br />
<br />
Biden stated that the package would include "ammunition, artillery, armoured vehicles". The announcement comes days after the country permitted allies to transfer advanced F-16 jets to Ukraine.</p>

<p>“The United States continues to help Ukraine respond, recover and rebuild. We're also supporting peace,” Biden stated.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s press secretary Sergii Nykyforov has clarified the recent statement made by the leader on the fall of Bakhmut. “Reporter’s question: Russians said they have taken Bakhmut.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s press secretary Sergii Nykyforov has clarified the recent statement made by the leader on the fall of Bakhmut. “Reporter’s question: Russians said they have taken Bakhmut. President’s reply: I think no,” Sergii Nykyforov wrote on Facebook, as he claimed that the leader was responding to a different part of the reporter’s question. In Ukrainian language, he added, "In this way, the president denied the capture of Bakhmut." Zelensky earlier on Sunday appeared to have confirmed the news of the warring nation having lost the city of Bakhmut when he was asked if the region is still in Ukraine's hands since Russia claims it has taken it over. “I think no,” said Zelensky, while answering about the current status of Bakhmut as he sat alongside US President Joe Biden during a meeting which was being held on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan. “You have to understand that there is nothing left in this place. They destroyed everything.. just ruins and a lot of dead Russians, but they came to us," he said, Zelensky stated that Ukraine’s soldiers did "strong work" and "we appreciate their great job". "For today, Bakhmut is only in our hearts. There is nothing in this place. It is a tragedy,” he added. ALSO READ | Russia says West supplying F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry 'colossal risks' On Saturday, Russia had claimed that it has fully captured the war-torn eastern Ukrainian city. The fall of the city will mark the end of the bloodiest and longest battle in the already 15-month-old war. The Wagner Group of mercenaries led the assault on the largely levelled Ukrainian city. Earlier, Wagner Group's leader Yevgeny Prigozhin said that the Ukrainians have been finally pushed out of the last built-up area inside the city. The Russian ministry issued a statement on Telegram almost eight hours after Prigozhin's claims. However, Kyiv denied the claim made by Prigozhin and stated that the fight for Bakhmut is still going on. Referring to the city through its Soviet-era name, the Russian ministry stated, “In the Artyomovsk tactical direction, the assault teams of the Wagner private military company with the support of artillery and aviation of the southern battlegroup have completed the liberation of the city of Artyomovsk.” The state news agencies of Russia had cited Kremlin’s press service as stating President Vladimir Putin “congratulates the Wagner assault detachments, as well as all servicemen of the Russian Armed Forces units, who provided them with the necessary support and flank protection, on the completion of the operation to liberate Artyomovsk.” WATCH | Wagner Group: Russia did not supply with adequate ammunition | Russia-Ukraine War Biden unveils new arms, ammunition package for Kyiv United States President Joe Biden on Sunday unveiled a new weapons package for Kyiv as he held talks with Zelensky in Hiroshima, which is likely to become part of a large-scale counteroffensive which will be soon launched to push Russians back from the occupied territories. Biden stated that the package would include "ammunition, artillery, armoured vehicles". The announcement comes days after the country permitted allies to transfer advanced F-16 jets to Ukraine. “The United States continues to help Ukraine respond, recover and rebuild. We're also supporting peace,” Biden stated. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Zelensky’s spokesperson clarifies Ukrainian leader’s ‘no’, says he denied fall of Bakhmut

<p>United States President Joe Biden "looks forward" to holding talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Hiroshima, stated the White House on Saturday, confirming the meeting of the two leaders on the sidelines of the G7 summit.<br />
<br />
"It's a safe bet that President Biden will meet him," said National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan&nbsp;without giving more details on when the talks have been scheduled. "The president looks forward to the opportunity to be able to sit down face-to-face,” he added.<br />
<br />
The Ukrainian president was expected to reach Japan on Saturday after stopping in Saudi Arabia for the Arab summit, as per the local media. Apart from Biden, Zelensky will also hold talks with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-leaders-vow-to-starve-russian-war-machine-with-new-set-of-sanctions-594159">G7 leaders vow new set of tech, services sanctions to ‘starve Russian war machine’</a></p>

<p>Zelensky's surprise appearance at the meeting of the richest democracies of the world comes right after the announcement made by the White House that it would allow allied countries to provide Ukraine with US-built F-16 fighter aircraft.<br />
<br />
Ukraine had made several pleas for advanced planes to replace its war-battered and ageing Soviet-era fleet of fighter jets, however, Biden had previously stated that the United States would not allow transfers.<br />
<br />
Concerns were expressed by Washington regarding provoking Moscow and getting directly involved in the ongoing war.<br />
<br />
Sullivan said that transfers of F-16 would not upset the key balance that Washington wants in extending support to Ukraine "in a way that avoids World War III".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine to use F-16 warplanes only for defence: US</strong></h2>

<p>He stated that powerful warplanes would be used in the war only for defence.<br />
<br />
"The United States is not enabling or supporting attacks on Russian territory," he stated, adding that "the Ukrainians have consistently indicated that they are prepared to follow through on that."<br />
<br />
Further speaking about the criticism that the United States waited for too long before allowing allies to send F-16s to Ukraine, Sullivan said that planes are not needed by Ukrainians for an expected offensive aimed at driving Russians back in the coming weeks.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US makes accounting error of $3 billion as equipment sent to Ukraine overvalued</strong></p>

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<p><br />
He added that the F-16s and the training provided to pilots will be part of the Ukrainian air force’s long-term rebuilding.<br />
<br />
Sullivan said, "We've reached a moment where it's time to look down the road and to say 'What is Ukraine going to need... to be able to deter and defend against Russian aggression?'"<br />
<br />
"F-16s, fourth-generation fighter aircraft are part of that mix. The obvious first step there, is to do the training and then to work with allies, partners and the Ukrainians to determine how to do the actual provision points as we move forward,” he added.</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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United States President Joe Biden "looks forward" to holding talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Hiroshima, stated the White House on Saturday, confirming the meeting of the two leaders on the sidelines of the G7 summit.

United States President Joe Biden "looks forward" to holding talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Hiroshima, stated the White House on Saturday, confirming the meeting of the two leaders on the sidelines of the G7 summit. "It's a safe bet that President Biden will meet him," said National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan without giving more details on when the talks have been scheduled. "The president looks forward to the opportunity to be able to sit down face-to-face,” he added. The Ukrainian president was expected to reach Japan on Saturday after stopping in Saudi Arabia for the Arab summit, as per the local media. Apart from Biden, Zelensky will also hold talks with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. ALSO READ | G7 leaders vow new set of tech, services sanctions to ‘starve Russian war machine’ Zelensky's surprise appearance at the meeting of the richest democracies of the world comes right after the announcement made by the White House that it would allow allied countries to provide Ukraine with US-built F-16 fighter aircraft. Ukraine had made several pleas for advanced planes to replace its war-battered and ageing Soviet-era fleet of fighter jets, however, Biden had previously stated that the United States would not allow transfers. Concerns were expressed by Washington regarding provoking Moscow and getting directly involved in the ongoing war. Sullivan said that transfers of F-16 would not upset the key balance that Washington wants in extending support to Ukraine "in a way that avoids World War III". Ukraine to use F-16 warplanes only for defence: US He stated that powerful warplanes would be used in the war only for defence. "The United States is not enabling or supporting attacks on Russian territory," he stated, adding that "the Ukrainians have consistently indicated that they are prepared to follow through on that." Further speaking about the criticism that the United States waited for too long before allowing allies to send F-16s to Ukraine, Sullivan said that planes are not needed by Ukrainians for an expected offensive aimed at driving Russians back in the coming weeks. WATCH | US makes accounting error of $3 billion as equipment sent to Ukraine overvalued He added that the F-16s and the training provided to pilots will be part of the Ukrainian air force’s long-term rebuilding. Sullivan said, "We've reached a moment where it's time to look down the road and to say 'What is Ukraine going to need... to be able to deter and defend against Russian aggression?'" "F-16s, fourth-generation fighter aircraft are part of that mix. The obvious first step there, is to do the training and then to work with allies, partners and the Ukrainians to determine how to do the actual provision points as we move forward,” he added. (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

G7 Summit: Biden ‘looks forward’ to meeting Ukraine’s Zelensky, says White House

Russian airborne missile system could be powerful and deadly. But it's believed that the Patriot missile system could give it a tough fight. It is considered to be one of the most advanced U.S. air defence systems. We show you how the Patriot defence system works and if it can knock out Russian hypersonic missiles.

Patriot missile system: How is it helping Ukraine?

In a video, Russia's Wagner Chief asserted that his company had taken full control of the city of Bakhmut, which has endured some of the world's deadliest and fiercest conflicts to date. However, this assertion is still just that—an assertion—and has not yet been verified.

Wagner Group: Russia did not supply with adequate ammunition | Russia-Ukraine War

The Russian branch of environmental group Greenpeace on Friday said it would shut down after authorities declared the group an "undesirable organisation", effectively banning it from operating.

Greenpeace to shut down in Russia after being declared ‘undesirable organisation’

The meeting on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Hiroshima marks the first in-person talks between the two leaders since the war began. Narendra Modi got on the phone with Zelensky to discuss the situation in Ukraine on multiple occasions after Russia's 2022 invasion. Over the years, India's security cooperation with Western nations has increased. New Delhi continues to rely on Moscow for defence and oil imports. Remember, India has long-standing security ties with Russia. So far, New Delhi has refused to condemn Moscow for the Ukraine invasion. However, prime minister modi told Putin last year, 'This is not the era for war'. In April, Ukraine's deputy foreign minister visited New Delhi.

Modi-Zelensky meeting in Japan; India has long-standing security ties with Russia | Details

Russia keeps demonstrating its advanced technologies and high-tech weapons. It has an edge over most of its rivals when it comes to military hardware. These days, Moscow's focus is on hypersonic missiles which are an important weapon in modern warfare. These missiles are designed to penetrate sophisticated air defence systems. Here's more.

Russia unleashes missile attacks on Ukraine

<p>Belarus has begun building military fortifications along its border with Ukraine, according to the Belarusian monitoring organisation Belaruski Hayun, as reported by the Moscow Times.&nbsp;Construction equipment and a line of miniature anti-tank concrete pyramids known as dragon's teeth were sighted 10 kilometres from Gomel, a city located 44 kilometres from the Ukrainian border as per&nbsp;Belaruski Hayun.</p>

<p>During World War II, dragon's teeth were commonly utilised to impede the advance of enemy vehicles and soldiers.</p>

<p>Their deployment in Belarus, a close Russian ally that granted Moscow permission to invade Ukraine through its territory in February 2022, comes ahead of a widely anticipated Ukrainian counteroffensive.</p>

<p>This week, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko called the Ukrainian counteroffensive "disinformation."</p>

<p>"There is no ‘counteroffensive,’ from my point of view, and there cannot be. It's simply madness,” Lukashenko&nbsp;said&nbsp;Thursday at a meeting of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation’s (CSTO) Parliamentary Assembly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Belarusian military will conduct territorial exercises in the Gomel area from May 11 to June 2.</p>

<p>After Ukraine's successful counteroffensive in the fall of 2022, which saw Kyiv regain swaths of the northeast and south from invading Russian soldiers, Russian forces began vigorously erecting defensive lines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mercenaries from the Wagner private military company (PMC) began building fortifications in the eastern Donetsk area in September, where Russia has been focusing its effort for months.</p>

<p>This "line" was supposed to run east from the Russian-Ukrainian border to Kremennoye, then south to Svetlodarsk. A line of this length would be around 217 km long, according to CNN.</p>

<p>Furthermore, Russia has built defensive fortifications along the left bank of the Dnipro River, where Russian soldiers fled after abandoning Kherson.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-intensifies-attack-on-kyiv-overnight-air-defence-remains-active-594323">Russia intensifies attack on Ukraine overnight; Kyiv says air defence active</a></p>

<p>The construction of dragon's teeth has also been mentioned by governors of Russia's border areas with Ukraine, notably Belgorod region Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov.</p>

<h2><strong>Belarus' involvement in the Russia-Ukraine war</strong></h2>

<p>Belarus has always functioned as a launch pad for Russia's assault against Ukraine. Despite earlier promises from top Belarusian authorities that this would not happen, Russian forces invaded Ukraine via Belarus, and the nation has consistently supplied logistical support, supply lines, and medical treatment for Russian soldiers. Russian military planes have utilised Belarusian airfields, and Russia had fired at least 717 missiles from Belarus as of mid-September, as per the European Leadership Network.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;G7 Hiroshima Meet 2023: PM Modi meets Ukraine Prez Zelensky for first time since Russian invasion</strong></p>

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<p>According to a group of independent Belarusian monitors, Belarus also delivered over 65,000 tonnes of ammunition, over 100 Soviet-era tanks (such as the TM-72A), and roughly 20 armoured vehicles to Russia between March and September.</p>

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Belarus has begun building military fortifications along its border with Ukraine, according to the Belarusian monitoring organisation Belaruski Hayun, as reported by the Moscow Times.

Belarus has begun building military fortifications along its border with Ukraine, according to the Belarusian monitoring organisation Belaruski Hayun, as reported by the Moscow Times. Construction equipment and a line of miniature anti-tank concrete pyramids known as dragon's teeth were sighted 10 kilometres from Gomel, a city located 44 kilometres from the Ukrainian border as per Belaruski Hayun. During World War II, dragon's teeth were commonly utilised to impede the advance of enemy vehicles and soldiers. Their deployment in Belarus, a close Russian ally that granted Moscow permission to invade Ukraine through its territory in February 2022, comes ahead of a widely anticipated Ukrainian counteroffensive. This week, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko called the Ukrainian counteroffensive "disinformation." "There is no ‘counteroffensive,’ from my point of view, and there cannot be. It's simply madness,” Lukashenko said Thursday at a meeting of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation’s (CSTO) Parliamentary Assembly. The Belarusian military will conduct territorial exercises in the Gomel area from May 11 to June 2. After Ukraine's successful counteroffensive in the fall of 2022, which saw Kyiv regain swaths of the northeast and south from invading Russian soldiers, Russian forces began vigorously erecting defensive lines. Mercenaries from the Wagner private military company (PMC) began building fortifications in the eastern Donetsk area in September, where Russia has been focusing its effort for months. This "line" was supposed to run east from the Russian-Ukrainian border to Kremennoye, then south to Svetlodarsk. A line of this length would be around 217 km long, according to CNN. Furthermore, Russia has built defensive fortifications along the left bank of the Dnipro River, where Russian soldiers fled after abandoning Kherson. ALSO READ | Russia intensifies attack on Ukraine overnight; Kyiv says air defence active The construction of dragon's teeth has also been mentioned by governors of Russia's border areas with Ukraine, notably Belgorod region Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov. Belarus' involvement in the Russia-Ukraine war Belarus has always functioned as a launch pad for Russia's assault against Ukraine. Despite earlier promises from top Belarusian authorities that this would not happen, Russian forces invaded Ukraine via Belarus, and the nation has consistently supplied logistical support, supply lines, and medical treatment for Russian soldiers. Russian military planes have utilised Belarusian airfields, and Russia had fired at least 717 missiles from Belarus as of mid-September, as per the European Leadership Network. ALSO WATCH | G7 Hiroshima Meet 2023: PM Modi meets Ukraine Prez Zelensky for first time since Russian invasion According to a group of independent Belarusian monitors, Belarus also delivered over 65,000 tonnes of ammunition, over 100 Soviet-era tanks (such as the TM-72A), and roughly 20 armoured vehicles to Russia between March and September. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Belarus building defensive fortifications near Ukraine border: Reports

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<p>Loud explosions were heard as Kyiv came under heavy air attack from the Russian side overnight. Authorities on early Saturday informed that falling debris were reported in three districts of the capital city while a residential building's roof caught fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko took to Telegram to confirm the reports, adding there was no immediate information about possible victims.</p>

<p>"Fire on the roof of a nine-storey building in one of the residential complexes of Dniprovskyi district," wrote Klitschko.</p>

<p>Serhiy Popko, the head of the civil and military administration of Kyiv suggested the public stay in shelters until an 'all-clear' was granted. Popko stated falling debris was the reason why the building caught fire, adding that more debris&nbsp;fell on several streets in Darnytskyi and Solomyanskyi districts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian Army said drones were headed towards the Kyiv region around 12:45 am local time (2145 GMT Friday) on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an attempt to ensure calm, the Ukrainian military released a statement saying air defence systems were active in the Kyiv and Chernihiv regions. American-made Patriot missiles have helped Kyiv spare the kind of destruction that other regions of the country are currently facing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/patriot-missile-system-in-ukraine-damaged-but-operational-593525"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Patriot missile system in Ukraine damaged but operational</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Similar attack took place earlier this week</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first instance during the ongoing war when Moscow has conducted overnight strikes on the capital city while the public sleeps. On Thursday as well, the city's military administration reported falling debris that caused the fire in a non-residential building.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports at the time, the attack was purportedly carried out by strategic bombers from the Caspian region, perhaps using cruise missiles. Local media reports stated the cruise missiles used were X-101 and X-55 types developed during Soviet times.</p>

<p>The heavy attack on Kyiv comes on the same day President Volodymyr Zelensky headed for the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan.&nbsp;His visit to Japan comes in the backdrop of US granting Kyiv access to&nbsp;advanced fighter jets and training for Kyiv's pilots.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-summit-live-2023-indian-pm-narendra-modi-meets-japanese-pm-fumio-kishida-594292" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | G7 summit LIVE 2023: Indian PM Narendra Modi meets Japanese PM Fumio Kishida</strong></a></p>

<p>According to an AFP report, Zelensky will hold talks with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the G7 summit. He will also hold separate meetings with US President Joe Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida as well as India Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Loud explosions were heard as Kyiv came under heavy air attack from the Russian side overnight. Authorities on early Saturday informed that falling debris were reported in three districts of the capital city while a residential building's roof caught fire.

Loud explosions were heard as Kyiv came under heavy air attack from the Russian side overnight. Authorities on early Saturday informed that falling debris were reported in three districts of the capital city while a residential building's roof caught fire. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko took to Telegram to confirm the reports, adding there was no immediate information about possible victims. "Fire on the roof of a nine-storey building in one of the residential complexes of Dniprovskyi district," wrote Klitschko. Serhiy Popko, the head of the civil and military administration of Kyiv suggested the public stay in shelters until an 'all-clear' was granted. Popko stated falling debris was the reason why the building caught fire, adding that more debris fell on several streets in Darnytskyi and Solomyanskyi districts. The Ukrainian Army said drones were headed towards the Kyiv region around 12:45 am local time (2145 GMT Friday) on Saturday. In an attempt to ensure calm, the Ukrainian military released a statement saying air defence systems were active in the Kyiv and Chernihiv regions. American-made Patriot missiles have helped Kyiv spare the kind of destruction that other regions of the country are currently facing. WATCH | Patriot missile system in Ukraine damaged but operational × Similar attack took place earlier this week This is not the first instance during the ongoing war when Moscow has conducted overnight strikes on the capital city while the public sleeps. On Thursday as well, the city's military administration reported falling debris that caused the fire in a non-residential building. According to reports at the time, the attack was purportedly carried out by strategic bombers from the Caspian region, perhaps using cruise missiles. Local media reports stated the cruise missiles used were X-101 and X-55 types developed during Soviet times. The heavy attack on Kyiv comes on the same day President Volodymyr Zelensky headed for the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan. His visit to Japan comes in the backdrop of US granting Kyiv access to advanced fighter jets and training for Kyiv's pilots. ALSO READ | G7 summit LIVE 2023: Indian PM Narendra Modi meets Japanese PM Fumio Kishida According to an AFP report, Zelensky will hold talks with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the G7 summit. He will also hold separate meetings with US President Joe Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida as well as India Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia intensifies attack on Ukraine overnight; Kyiv says air defence active

President Joe Biden told G7 leaders that Washington will support providing advanced warplanes, including F-16s, to Ukraine; and will back efforts to train Kyiv's pilots. The US Move signals a major breakthrough for Kyiv. Ukraine has repeatedly, and until recently, unsuccessfully pushed its Western supporters to agree to provide high-tech jets as it fights to fend off Russia's invasion.

Ukrainian Air Force: Depleted strength and dated aircraft

Russia on Friday said it banned entry to 500 Americans, including former president Barack Obama, in response to sanctions imposed by Washington.

Ukraine war: Russia bans entry to 500 Americans including Barack Obama

<p>Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky met India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the G7 Hiroshima summit in Japan on Saturday, May 20. With India's foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar and&nbsp;National Security Adviser Ajit Doval present by his side, this is the first time when PM Modi met Zelensky since Russia launched its military offensive against Ukraine in February 2022.</p>

<p>"India, and I, personally would do whatever it takes to stop the war in Ukraine," India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Zelensky in Hiroshima.</p>

<p>Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said he invited India to join Ukraine's peace formula during his talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Zelensky also invited Modi to visit Ukraine.</p>

<p>"I briefed the interlocutor in detail on the Ukrainian Peace Formula initiative and invited India to join its implementation. I spoke about Ukraine's needs in humanitarian demining and mobile hospitals. I thank India for supporting our country's territorial integrity and sovereignty, in particular, at the platforms of international organizations, and for providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine," Zelensky wrote on Twitter.</p>

<p>Shortly after the bilateral meet, India's PM Modi also took to Twitter and stated that he conveyed India's support for "dialogue and diplomacy to find a way forward". "We will continue extending humanitarian assistance to the people of Ukraine," Modi said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Met President <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZelenskyyUa</a> in Hiroshima. Conveyed our clear support for dialogue and diplomacy to find a way forward. We will continue extending humanitarian assistance to the people of Ukraine. <a href="https://t.co/1srbIIJUB3">pic.twitter.com/1srbIIJUB3</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1659885164561051648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier during the bilateral meeting, Modi told Zelensky that he understands the pain of war currently faced by the Ukrainian people through the experiences of Indian students rescued from Ukraine at the onset of war last year.</p>

<p>"Since the last year and half, we are constantly in touch, but this is the first time we are meeting since Glasgow," Modi said while referring to the last bilateral meeting between the two leaders at UN Climate Change Conference in UK in 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The war in Ukraine is a major issue for the world at large. It is affecting the world in multiple ways. But for me, this is not a political or economy-related issue. It is a humanitarian issue for me," Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You understand the pain of war better than us. But last year, when our children came back from Ukraine and the way they described the situation there, I was able to better understand the pain you and people of Ukraine are currently going through," Modi told Zelensky.</p>

<p>While India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pointed out country's principled opposition to conflicts anywhere in the world, and even to Russian President Vladimir Putin by stating '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/todays-era-must-not-be-of-war-g20-draft-communique-uses-indian-pm-modis-remarks-to-putin-534278">Today's era is not the era of war</a>',&nbsp;New Delhi has refrained from directly criticising Russian actions at multilateral forums.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India is among the nations with whom&nbsp;Russia shares "special and privileged strategic partnership". The two countries share deep ties since India's freedom from the British in 1947.</p>

<p>As of April 2023, roughly 70&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of the arsenal of the Indian armed forces is&nbsp;of Russian origin.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> held talks with President <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZelenskyyUa</a> during the G-7 Summit in Hiroshima. <a href="https://t.co/tEk3hWku7a">pic.twitter.com/tEk3hWku7a</a></p>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1659857486147637249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Shortly after the bilateral talks between the two leaders, India's foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla told reporters that Zelensky appreciated India's support to Kyiv during the Covid crisis.</p>

<p>"The President recalled how he himself had taken Covishield vaccine manufactured by Serum Institute of India," Shringla said.</p>

<p>"President Zelensky expressed appreciation for India's support not only for vaccines but also for affordable and quality pharmaceuticals. He also suggested that India and Ukraine should collaborate in joint manufacture and production of a wide range medicines and other health equipment," Shringla added.</p>

<p>As many as 354,000 Russian and Ukrainian soldiers have been killed or injured in the Ukraine war, according to a trove of purported US intelligence documents posted online in April 2023.</p>

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Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky met India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the G7 Hiroshima summit in Japan on Saturday, May 20. With India's foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval present by his side, this is the first time when PM Modi met Zelensky since Russia launched its military offensive against Ukraine in February 2022.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky met India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the G7 Hiroshima summit in Japan on Saturday, May 20. With India's foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval present by his side, this is the first time when PM Modi met Zelensky since Russia launched its military offensive against Ukraine in February 2022. "India, and I, personally would do whatever it takes to stop the war in Ukraine," India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Zelensky in Hiroshima. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said he invited India to join Ukraine's peace formula during his talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Zelensky also invited Modi to visit Ukraine. "I briefed the interlocutor in detail on the Ukrainian Peace Formula initiative and invited India to join its implementation. I spoke about Ukraine's needs in humanitarian demining and mobile hospitals. I thank India for supporting our country's territorial integrity and sovereignty, in particular, at the platforms of international organizations, and for providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine," Zelensky wrote on Twitter. Shortly after the bilateral meet, India's PM Modi also took to Twitter and stated that he conveyed India's support for "dialogue and diplomacy to find a way forward". "We will continue extending humanitarian assistance to the people of Ukraine," Modi said. Met President @ZelenskyyUa in Hiroshima. Conveyed our clear support for dialogue and diplomacy to find a way forward. We will continue extending humanitarian assistance to the people of Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/1srbIIJUB3 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 20, 2023 × Earlier during the bilateral meeting, Modi told Zelensky that he understands the pain of war currently faced by the Ukrainian people through the experiences of Indian students rescued from Ukraine at the onset of war last year. "Since the last year and half, we are constantly in touch, but this is the first time we are meeting since Glasgow," Modi said while referring to the last bilateral meeting between the two leaders at UN Climate Change Conference in UK in 2021. "The war in Ukraine is a major issue for the world at large. It is affecting the world in multiple ways. But for me, this is not a political or economy-related issue. It is a humanitarian issue for me," Modi said. "You understand the pain of war better than us. But last year, when our children came back from Ukraine and the way they described the situation there, I was able to better understand the pain you and people of Ukraine are currently going through," Modi told Zelensky. While India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pointed out country's principled opposition to conflicts anywhere in the world, and even to Russian President Vladimir Putin by stating 'Today's era is not the era of war', New Delhi has refrained from directly criticising Russian actions at multilateral forums. India is among the nations with whom Russia shares "special and privileged strategic partnership". The two countries share deep ties since India's freedom from the British in 1947. As of April 2023, roughly 70 per cent of the arsenal of the Indian armed forces is of Russian origin. PM @narendramodi held talks with President @ZelenskyyUa during the G-7 Summit in Hiroshima. pic.twitter.com/tEk3hWku7a — PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 20, 2023 × Shortly after the bilateral talks between the two leaders, India's foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla told reporters that Zelensky appreciated India's support to Kyiv during the Covid crisis. "The President recalled how he himself had taken Covishield vaccine manufactured by Serum Institute of India," Shringla said. "President Zelensky expressed appreciation for India's support not only for vaccines but also for affordable and quality pharmaceuticals. He also suggested that India and Ukraine should collaborate in joint manufacture and production of a wide range medicines and other health equipment," Shringla added. As many as 354,000 Russian and Ukrainian soldiers have been killed or injured in the Ukraine war, according to a trove of purported US intelligence documents posted online in April 2023. 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.

I will do whatever it takes to stop the war in Ukraine: PM Modi tells Zelensky at G7 Summit

<p>Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;reached the Japanese city of Hiroshima on a French aircraft on Saturday to attend the G7 summit that is scheduled to run through Sunday. The Ukrainian president was escorted by a large convoy of vehicles as he arrived in Hiroshima.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Group of Seven (G7) consists of the world's major advanced economies, including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>G7 position on Russia</strong></h2>

<p>G7 leaders on Friday pledged to impose more sanctions on Russia in a show of strength for&nbsp;Ukraine. The leaders vowed "to stand together against Russia's illegal, unjustifiable, and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine."</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-71-earthquake-rocks-east-of-new-caledonia-in-pacific-ocean-594298">Another 7.1 earthquake rocks east of New Caledonia in Pacific Ocean, tsunami warning issued</a></p>

<p>The G7 countries have taken a collective stance on Russia over its Ukraine invasion. In 2014, Russia's annexation of Crimea and its involvement in the conflict in Eastern Ukraine led to its suspension from the then-G8, which became the G7. The G7 countries condemned Russia's actions as a violation of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-depicted-as-hitler-on-posters-in-france-avignon-police-initiate-probe-594370">Macron depicted as Hitler on posters in France's Avignon, police initiate probe</a></p>

<p>Since then, the G7 has maintained a firm stance on Russia. The group has consistently expressed concerns over Russia's actions in areas such as Ukraine, its destabilising activities in other countries, cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and human rights issues.</p>

<p>G7 nations in a joint statement said the countries are "imposing further sanctions and measures to increase the costs to Russia and those who are supporting its war effort" to "starve Russia's war machine."</p>

<p>"We are also building on the success of our efforts to ensure that Russia is no longer able to weaponize the availability of energy against us and against the world," the statement added.</p>

<p>UK PM Rishi Sunak tweeted that ensuring Ukraine wins is the most important thing the leaders can do for global peace and security. "We are banning all imports of Russian diamonds, copper, aluminium and nickel. Sanctions are having a clear impact in degrading Putin’s war effort. The G7 stands united with Ukraine," he tweeted.&nbsp;<br />
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Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky reached the Japanese city of Hiroshima on a French aircraft on Saturday to attend the G7 summit that is scheduled to run through Sunday.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky reached the Japanese city of Hiroshima on a French aircraft on Saturday to attend the G7 summit that is scheduled to run through Sunday. The Ukrainian president was escorted by a large convoy of vehicles as he arrived in Hiroshima. The Group of Seven (G7) consists of the world's major advanced economies, including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. G7 position on Russia G7 leaders on Friday pledged to impose more sanctions on Russia in a show of strength for Ukraine. The leaders vowed "to stand together against Russia's illegal, unjustifiable, and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine." Also Read | Another 7.1 earthquake rocks east of New Caledonia in Pacific Ocean, tsunami warning issued The G7 countries have taken a collective stance on Russia over its Ukraine invasion. In 2014, Russia's annexation of Crimea and its involvement in the conflict in Eastern Ukraine led to its suspension from the then-G8, which became the G7. The G7 countries condemned Russia's actions as a violation of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Also Read | Macron depicted as Hitler on posters in France's Avignon, police initiate probe Since then, the G7 has maintained a firm stance on Russia. The group has consistently expressed concerns over Russia's actions in areas such as Ukraine, its destabilising activities in other countries, cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and human rights issues. G7 nations in a joint statement said the countries are "imposing further sanctions and measures to increase the costs to Russia and those who are supporting its war effort" to "starve Russia's war machine." "We are also building on the success of our efforts to ensure that Russia is no longer able to weaponize the availability of energy against us and against the world," the statement added. UK PM Rishi Sunak tweeted that ensuring Ukraine wins is the most important thing the leaders can do for global peace and security. "We are banning all imports of Russian diamonds, copper, aluminium and nickel. Sanctions are having a clear impact in degrading Putin’s war effort. The G7 stands united with Ukraine," he tweeted. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Ukraine’s Zelensky lands in Hiroshima on French aircraft to attend G7 summit

The United States has imposed several sanctions against Russia in response to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. But we have a question - are these sanctions really making a difference to Russia especially when it's getting access to what it wants including Western technologies? Our report tells you more about it.

Russia successfully evading western technology sanctions

Russia launched fresh attacks on Ukraine's capital Kyiv and the port city of Odesa, killing at least one person and injuring two others. Why is Russia attacking a city that is crucial to the Black Sea grain deal that Moscow just agreed to extend?

Gravitas: Russian missiles rain down on Kyiv, Odesa

<p>Walking back on his earlier statements, US President Joe Biden on Friday informed his G7 allies that Washington DC will support a joint effort to train Ukrainian pilots on fourth-generation aircraft, including F-16s. The training is expected to commence in the coming weeks; however, it will take place in European countries. US military personnel will also take part in the training.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden had earlier said that he didn’t think Ukraine needed F-16 fighter jets. The decision to form a joint training programme was made very quickly by Joe Biden after consultations with America’s European partners. Whether or not to give F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine was a major issue on the G7 meeting agenda. This comes after UK PM Rishi Sunak called on European nations having F-16s in their stockpile to send them to Ukraine to help defend the nation against a Russian offensive.</p>

<h2><strong>Training will take months to complete</strong></h2>

<p>A US official was quoted by CNN as saying that the training will take months to complete. “As the training takes place over the coming months, our coalition of countries participating in this effort will decide when to actually provide jets, how many we will provide, and who will provide them,” the official said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;G7 leaders reach Hiroshima in Japan ahead of the official G7 Summit</strong></p>

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<p>The official added that “to date, the United States and our allies and partners have focused on providing Ukraine with the vast majority of the systems, weapons, and training it requires to conduct offensive operations this spring and summer. Discussions about improving the Ukrainian Air Force reflect our long-term commitment to Ukraine’s self-defense.”</p>

<h2><strong>US to allow nations to send F-16s to Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Biden administration has also signalled to European allies that the US would soon allow them to send their F-16s to Ukraine. Some nations have agreed to help Ukraine; however, they will have to first take approval from the US as its sensitive technology is involved.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-is-g7-why-is-it-different-this-year-593935"><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;What is G7? Why is it different this year?</strong></a></p>

<p>Earlier, UK PM had advocated for creating an international forum to help Ukraine procure advanced weaponry and to impart training to Ukrainian troops.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>F-16s: Ukraine’s longstanding demand</strong></h2>

<p>Following the decision by the US, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday hailed the 'historic' decision. Ukraine has argued that it needs F-16s to deter Russian missile and drone attacks. “We need F-16s, and I am grateful to our allies for their decision to work in this direction, including training our pilots,” said Andriy Yermak, head of the office of President Volodymyr Zelensky. It must be noted that countries like Netherlands and Belgium have F-16s in their air force but Britain doesn’t.&nbsp;</p>

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Walking back on his earlier statements, US President Joe Biden on Friday informed his G7 allies that Washington DC will support a joint effort to train Ukrainian pilots on fourth-generation aircraft, including F-16s.

Walking back on his earlier statements, US President Joe Biden on Friday informed his G7 allies that Washington DC will support a joint effort to train Ukrainian pilots on fourth-generation aircraft, including F-16s. The training is expected to commence in the coming weeks; however, it will take place in European countries. US military personnel will also take part in the training. Biden had earlier said that he didn’t think Ukraine needed F-16 fighter jets. The decision to form a joint training programme was made very quickly by Joe Biden after consultations with America’s European partners. Whether or not to give F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine was a major issue on the G7 meeting agenda. This comes after UK PM Rishi Sunak called on European nations having F-16s in their stockpile to send them to Ukraine to help defend the nation against a Russian offensive. Training will take months to complete A US official was quoted by CNN as saying that the training will take months to complete. “As the training takes place over the coming months, our coalition of countries participating in this effort will decide when to actually provide jets, how many we will provide, and who will provide them,” the official said. Watch: G7 leaders reach Hiroshima in Japan ahead of the official G7 Summit × The official added that “to date, the United States and our allies and partners have focused on providing Ukraine with the vast majority of the systems, weapons, and training it requires to conduct offensive operations this spring and summer. Discussions about improving the Ukrainian Air Force reflect our long-term commitment to Ukraine’s self-defense.” US to allow nations to send F-16s to Ukraine Biden administration has also signalled to European allies that the US would soon allow them to send their F-16s to Ukraine. Some nations have agreed to help Ukraine; however, they will have to first take approval from the US as its sensitive technology is involved. Also Read | What is G7? Why is it different this year? Earlier, UK PM had advocated for creating an international forum to help Ukraine procure advanced weaponry and to impart training to Ukrainian troops. F-16s: Ukraine’s longstanding demand Following the decision by the US, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday hailed the 'historic' decision. Ukraine has argued that it needs F-16s to deter Russian missile and drone attacks. “We need F-16s, and I am grateful to our allies for their decision to work in this direction, including training our pilots,” said Andriy Yermak, head of the office of President Volodymyr Zelensky. It must be noted that countries like Netherlands and Belgium have F-16s in their air force but Britain doesn’t. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Zelensky hails Biden's plan to train Ukrainian pilots on F-16s

With the G7 summit underway in Hiroshima, Japan, the world leaders are planning to impose new sanctions on Russia. In a new round of sanctions, the United Kingdom (UK) has announced a ban on Russian diamonds and imports of metals from Russia including copper, aluminum, and nickel in support of Ukraine.

G7 Summit: UK, US to announce fresh round of sanctions on Russia

Pentagon overvalued US equipment that it has sent to Ukraine, according to a source-based report by news agency Reuters - the accounting error was around $3 billion. The major accounting error comes at a time when the US is in the middle of an unprecedented debt crisis.

US makes accountability error of $3 billion, military aid to Ukraine overvalued: Report | World DNA

The Pentagon revealed Thursday that it has overcounted the value of the military aid the United States has sent Ukraine by at least $3 billion.

Pentagon accounting error overvalued Ukraine weapons aid by $3 billion

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